Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS USM

[freefall0603]

Hey all. I'm new to posting but have actually been reading and learning from this site for months now. I've just come into some money (Navy takes it's sweet time on those bonuses) i'm looking into getting the above lens for mostly wildlife photography. I know 500mm - 600mm is good but luckily 300mm will get me 480mm on my 20D and I won't be spending near as much;). That and f/2.8 should give me great dof for animals. I'm wondering what people's opinions are on this lens and maybe some example photos if anyone has them at hand. Thanks guys.

Oh yeah, and it would be my first L lens. Could be some trouble ahead for the wallet...

[GyRob]

dont know why know ones replied to this. the ef 300f2.8 L is said to be one of the sharpest you can get also it is one of the fastest at focus speed and i belive on a 1dmk2 it is the fastest. a truly great lens depending on what wiled life it may be a bit short to be honest .
Rob.

[EpHeSuS]

You can try find some shots through the Pbase lens gallery.

http://www.pbase.com/cameras/canon/ef_300_28is

[Jack W.]

I just got the 300f/2.8L IS a week ago. Unfortunately, the weather hasn't been good, so I haven't done much with it yet except some quick shots in the backyard, using a Canon 2x TC.
I still have to "learn" the lens, but so far I really like what I see with the 2xTC. I also have the 300f/4L IS, and that lens with a 1.4TC is terrific, so I expect the 2.8 with a 1.4TC will be even better.
The 300f/2.8L IS a great lens. Using it hand held isn't totally out of the question, but not something I'd want to do; it's heavy. Great on a monopod with IS. I just added a Wimberly Sidekick and a RRS BH-40 ballhead to my tripod. Using the 300 on this setup is terrific.
Jack

[clicky]

http://home.no.net/kjetil25/JJ9H4138_900x600.jpg

Canon EOS-1D Mark II
1/25"
300mm
F2.8 Aperture priority
ISO 3200

Handheld with IS on (no flash), manual whitebalance. Shot in very poor light conditions, with only little available streetlight.

[Choderboy]

http://home.no.net/kjetil25/JJ9H4138_900x600.jpg

Canon EOS-1D Mark II
1/25"
300mm
F2.8 Aperture priority
ISO 3200

Handheld with IS on (no flash), manual whitebalance. Shot in very poor light conditions, with only little available streetlight.

Holy crap! 1/25!! Have you done this often , or was this a freak performance?

[Tapeman]

1/25" Incredible, or typo?

[clicky]

1/25" Incredible, or typo?

Nope, check the EXIF! ;-)

[Brooke]

With the 1.4x TC ...


http://www.hbc3.net/ForPosting/Gregg/hs6i2109%20copy_std.jpg

[busterboy]

A sample of what it was made for..:)

http://www.timprocter.co.uk/photography/airshow-jet.jpg

It also does portraits..:lol:

http://homepages.nildram.co.uk/~tprocter/candids/2.jpg

[Choderboy]

Nope, check the EXIF! ;-)

Just wondering.. I could not see the Exif. (I normally just right click , properties using XP.)
I thought it might have been 1/125. (Not doubting you now you have confirmed it was 1/25, just want to learn!)

(All I know about Exif is that if I use cheaper software to edit , I lose Exif , but Photoshop retains the info. I only ever right click , properties , as it shows me all the info.)

[In2Photos]

Just wondering.. I could not see the Exif. (I normally just right click , properties using XP.)
I thought it might have been 1/125. (Not doubting you now you have confirmed it was 1/25, just want to learn!)

(All I know about Exif is that if I use cheaper software to edit , I lose Exif , but Photoshop retains the info. I only ever right click , properties , as it shows me all the info.)

Not with IE in XP. You have to download a third party software, or at least I did, and I have SP2 on my machines. See this thread (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=141429)I started earlier for a link.

BTW, it shows 1/25 on my computer but EXIF can be altered.

[lime]

1/25 handheld is believable.

Here are a couple of mine, not as slow, but at either 1/30 or 1/40 handheld.
http://www.pbase.com/eflime/image/43940783.jpg
http://www.pbase.com/eflime/image/43940784.jpg

With the 2x TC
http://www.pbase.com/eflime/image/51345585.jpg

[lakiluno]

/me drools

[IainUK]

Oh no, not again! I had just pursuaded myself that the 70-200 was the way to go after months of persuading myself the spend was worth it. How long do you think it is going to take me to justify THIS lens!! :-) ;-)

[freefall0603]

This lens looks like it does some great work. But do you really think it may be too short? After all the 20D has the 1.6 factor and I want to get the 1.4 II extender in the future for this lens and other lenses i hope to be able to afford one day.

[NickSimcheck]

You can try find some shots through the Pbase lens gallery.

http://www.pbase.com/cameras/canon/ef_300_28is


When I clicked the link, the first picture that came up was this;

http://www.pbase.com/image/35174925


As Paris Hilton would say, "That's hot." :lol:

[the_erickee]

i would put a *NWS* on that link lol.

[malla1962]

Just a few of mine.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q3207.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q3191.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q2880.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q2848.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q1776.jpg

[Rumjungle]

If you're concerned about length, you should know that the 300-2.8 does just fine with extenders as well. Coupled with your 20D, you can get some serious reach out of this lens. Here's a crop from my 1DMk2N/300-2.8/2x:
http://i5.pbase.com/o6/60/643160/1/72401593.0f53hONr.AA1_3360WM.jpg

And another one with the 1.4x:
http://i5.pbase.com/o6/60/643160/1/72694280.9aR8k80P.AA1_3675wm.jpg

[PetKal]

My best landscaping lens.:cool:

[Dorman]

My best landscaping lens.:cool:

And all this time I've been using a wide angle lens for landscapes, stupid...stupid...stupid..... so mad at myself..... :D

[PetKal]

And all this time I've been using a wide angle lens for landscapes, stupid...stupid...stupid..... so mad at myself..... :D

I tell ya, Dorm....I finally saw the light a few weeks ago too.;)
Also, the lens is good for engine troubleshootin/maintenance.

[PetKal]

Lest we forget, I use the lens +2xTC for macro photography where the combo does rather well.

[StealthLude]

i really want this lens lol

[Dorman]

Petkal, you crack me up mate.

[PetKal]

Petkal, you crack me up mate.

That's cool , Dorm.....it is my Newfie wife and my inlaws who have made me into a mental derelict that I am today.;)

[Dorman]

Aaahhh that explains alot. :)

[arkturas]

Hi, Has anyone got any examples of a 300 f2.8 using the 1.4 and 2x TC - examples would be great..

[cwphoto]

With the EF 2x II at f/8:

http://www.photo.net.au/members/d/4516-1/MG5.JPG

[Mr. Clean]

Nice grab of the Doctor CWphoto!

Hmmm, maybe instead of a 400 5.6 I should stretch to a 300 2.8....

[zed]

1) No extender
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/105195113-L-2.jpg

2) no extender
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/116591212-L-2.jpg


3) 1.4x
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/116593993-L-2.jpg

4) 1.4x
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/116594947-L-2.jpg

5) 2.0x
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/105196812-L-2.jpg

6) 2.0x
http://www.paradigmimages.com/photos/105197466-L-2.jpg

[Mr. Clean]

unbelievable...

[freebird]

oh wow........my dream lens. A must have.

[StealthLude]

The big boy canon primes take TCs VERY well...

[bryno74]

Shot wide open with the 1.4 extender

http://i61.photobucket.com/albums/h60/bryno74/SanDiegoSX-0118-Edit.jpg

[Crashoran]

http://spotted.lubbockonline.com/images/photos/16/2007/02/23/zoom/1525501.jpg

I couldnt believe how sharp this was at 100%, i thought it was at f/4 but it was wide open.

[Tareq]

Stop showing please. Still i didn't get mine yet.;)

[Tareq]

OK now, you can continue, i got the lens finally, HEHE.:D

I will post later when i can get better results, Have fun all.

[busterboy]

Canon 300mm f/2.8L with 1.4x converter fitted..:)

http://www.timprocter.co.uk/photography/bird-table/blue~tit.jpg

[grimreaper]

wow , this lens seems to take a TC very well , any more pics guys :D

[malla1962]

2 more from me.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q3434.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q2034.jpg

[busterboy]

300mm with 1.4x converter..:)

http://www.zen118613.zen.co.uk/Leeming/scammel.jpg

[KevB]

With a Sigma 2x tc
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v64/Mackem/Wren800x.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v64/Mackem/Wren2800x.jpg

[Scuff]

Here is a recent one from the BFTA Masters Field Target competiton.

1/250 @ f2.8. 400asa

http://www.gtmedia.com/images/Showdown07/Showdown07-1-4.jpg

[Robf]

oh why not...here's another from the same event...

thanks for the loan of the lens and camera Scuff...i dont think the missus was too happy when i started raving about using £10k's worth of camera gear ;)

just can't believe how fast this lens focuses...and how stable and sharp it was.

http://www.rfarn.ukfsn.org/2007_showdown/_MG_7617.jpg

[Dusty]

Excellent shots everyone !
Here's a montage from last week's Lunar Eclipse.
Each frame taken with the 20D and 300mm f/2.8 + 2x TC.

[Mstar]

Excellent shots everyone !
Here's a montage from last week's Lunar Eclipse.
Each frame taken with the 20D and 300mm f/2.8 + 2x TC.

Dusty, I love the montage. Great sequence

[airfrogusmc]

300 2.8 no TC
Heres a couple shots from a softball game I shot yesterday. Great lens.
All wide open.
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_79372.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_7922.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_7895.jpg
http://i4.photobucket.com/albums/y118/airfrogusmc/IMG_8007.jpg

[Scuff]

oh why not...here's another from the same event...

thanks for the loan of the lens and camera Scuff...i dont think the missus was too happy when i started raving about using £10k's worth of camera gear ;)

just can't believe how fast this lens focuses...and how stable and sharp it was.

http://www.rfarn.ukfsn.org/2007_showdown/_MG_7617.jpg

Glad you enjoyed it... took me ages to clean the dribble off though :lol:

[ChrisBlaze]

post more with the 1.4x tele and 2x tele

[ChrisBlaze]

1.4 tele

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0222_1x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0209_1x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0182_1x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0175_1x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0163_1x.jpg


2x tele

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0026_2x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0076.jpg

[ChrisBlaze]

I got brave and put the 2x and the 1x together for 840mm!!!

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0125_2x_1x.jpg

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d77/rickrockin/_B9K0095_2x_1x.jpg

[NickR]

MKIII + 300mm f/2.8 IS + 1.4x

http://nickr.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p991507326-4.jpg

MKIII + 300mm f/2.8 IS + 2.0x

http://nickr.zenfolio.com/img/v2/p646280041-4.jpg

MKIII + 300mm f/2.8 IS + 1.4x and 2.0x stacked

http://nickr.zenfolio.com/img/v0/p962534426-4.jpg

[Scuff]

Taken at the Isle of Man Southern 100 at Castletown

Canon 1dsmkII. 300mm f2.8 + 2x Converter. 1/400sec@f9 - iso 200.

http://www.gtmedia.com/Southern100.jpg

[Aaagogo]

WTF!!!!!

what is this lens? magical, beautiful IQ at 300, with 1.4X, with 2X and with 1.4X and 2X.

This is an insane piece of glass. OMG OMG OMG, I've got to have this baby.

1 very quick qn, 300 @ f2.8, 420 @ f4 (AF still possible with 30D), 600 @ f5.6 ( is AF still possible on the 30D?) and 840 @ f 8??? ( I know definitely no AF on wht 30D with this combo...

[Tareq]

WTF!!!!!

what is this lens? magical, beautiful IQ at 300, with 1.4X, with 2X and with 1.4X and 2X.

This is an insane piece of glass. OMG OMG OMG, I've got to have this baby.

1 very quick qn, 300 @ f2.8, 420 @ f4 (AF still possible with 30D), 600 @ f5.6 ( is AF still possible on the 30D?) and 840 @ f 8??? ( I know definitely no AF on wht 30D with this combo...

This lens is Magic, once you attach it to your body then you will never think to pull it out.

[NickR]

This lens is Magic, once you attach it to your body then you will never think to pull it out.
DITTO

[Aaagogo]

quick quick, some one tell me, does it still AF with the 2x on the 30D?

I'm so getting this lens... wonder if I should wait for the rebate?

[prime80]

Yes, it will AF at f/5.6 with the 2x on the 30D.

[angryhampster]

quick quick, some one tell me, does it still AF with the 2x on the 30D?

I'm so getting this lens... wonder if I should wait for the rebate?



Probably. They'll most likely be announced before the end of october.

[timbernet]

Does anyone have sample images with the 300 + 1.4x TC + 1.4x TC?

I saw someone do that on a Nikon forum and it makes me wonder how well the Canon 300 2.8 would take it.

Thanks!

[4g63photo]

Here is one with a 1.4x tele and 100% crop.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b264/fernie94/pic.jpg

[shaktipalooza]

Amazing lens. Was a very wet day today when I shot these.
Gallery with full res images can be viewed at: http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/gallery/3850013#222796306
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/222797279-L.jpg
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/222796477-L.jpg
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/222797671-X2.jpg
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/222798650-X2.jpg

[col4bin]

http://fsquared.smugmug.com/photos/225981436-L.jpg

[midget]

these shots are simply amazing. the big prime certainly takes TCs very well, even stacked.

[dÄb]

300mm, 1/6400s @f3.5
Duck bill cleaning. If you have seen them do this then you know how fast that foot moves and it just looks like the bird is having a good scratch. I never knew that the "toe nails" are getting in there and cleaning the inside of the bill like that. This lens continues to amaze me. Oh btw it's not possible to stack two 1.4x's.
I'll post some shots with the 1.4x and the 2x stacked later.

http://www.daimage.com/canonforum/duck_01.jpg

100% crop with normal unsharp mask.
http://www.daimage.com/canonforum/duck_02.jpg

[shaktipalooza]

Here's one with the 2x teleconverter
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/227343796-L.jpg

[vincewchan]

Wow this lens is amazing. I'd love to own one some day!

[tonylong]

I was out yesterday using my 300 on a 1D Mk (no TC) -- I had to shoot hand-held out of a car window in dim late-afternoon, heavily overcast light, but some nice shots came out of it (a couple of these were posted earlier in the Birds section):

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90495094.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90495473.jpg

This is a tight crop of the above:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/90495472.jpg

[rstuntz]

Here's a couple of Eagles shot with the 300. 2X used on all shots.

http://stuntzonline.net/thread/Bald%20Eagles%20030.jpg

http://stuntzonline.net/thread/Bald%20Eagles%20251.jpg

And a Wood Duck for good measure

http://stuntzonline.net/thread/Green%20Island%20April%204th%202007%20087.jpg

[tonylong]

Ryan,

Your shots provoke -- well, a desire to get those kind of shots! Great!

[rstuntz]

Ryan,

Your shots provoke -- well, a desire to get those kind of shots! Great!

Thanks,

I feel like this lens raised my photography up a level. Money well spent.

[tonylong]

Here's a shot I just dug out for the Swallows thread in the Birds group!

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/78844108.jpg

[4g63photo]

Here is another shot with the 2x converter on.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b264/fernie94/IMG_7685.jpg

[bps]

Oh my.

I'm going to step away from the computer and pretend that I never saw this post. I'm also going to forget about all of the absolutely stellar reviews that I read on this lens. This forum is dangerous. Very, very dangerous.

Bryan

[PhotosGuy]

There's a link to some TC tests of 5 lenses down in this thread:

70-200 f/2.8 & 2X TC combination "Test" (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=444369)

[tonylong]

I've been using the 300 with a 2x TC a lot recently -- it just gets me shots!

The downside is a bit of softness from the TC (and I often have to perch this out of a car window rather than use a tripod), but the double reach beats what you would otherwise need a severe cropping to get.

Here are a few from recent outings:

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/92926631.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/92926196.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/92874329.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/92875372.jpg

[muscleflex]

i've been thinking about renting this lens out for the airshow this summer for the F22 Raptor specifically! anyone think it'll work? or am i best sticking with my 100-400? i'm gonna get a 1.4x as well

[Tareq]

i've been thinking about renting this lens out for the airshow this summer for the F22 Raptor specifically! anyone think it'll work? or am i best sticking with my 100-400? i'm gonna get a 1.4x as well

If it is the day time [i think it should be for airshows] then use 100-400, i used my 300 f2.8 in Swimming championship in Ajman about 1 year ago, the photos i've got are unbelievable, SHARP out of the camera.

[dÄb]

As I promised a shot with the 1.4x and the 2x. A day at the track and in good light with temps in the 50's the camera/lens performed absolutely flawlessly all day. In the past I have noticed when temps get above 70F in sunlight the auto focus has trouble with the teleconverters due to the heat haze. I have shots where the grills on cars look bent etc. Corvette was shot at speed with AI Servo coming towards me thru the corner. The focus tracking is slow to pick up but once it locks on it holds throughout the pan. 300+1.4x+2x=840mm. On the 1DM2N that = 1092mm :p
EXIF does not recognize the 1.4 on top of the 2x and only shows 600mm @f5.6 so this shot would be @f8.
Just a slight crop on both images.
http://www.daimage.com/CF/vette840mm.jpg

Bike shot was with the 2x. ( 600mm 1/400sec @f6.3)
http://www.daimage.com/CF/yellowbike.jpg

100% crop
http://www.daimage.com/CF/yellowbike2.jpg

[Bubble]

300IS plus 2x TC

http://www.vietnamet.com/photos/bosachica/3.jpg

[PhotosGuy]

As I promised a shot with the 1.4x and the 2x. Those are amazingly sharp! I wouldn't have expected that from 3.4x TC!

[shaktipalooza]

with 2x teleconverter. I think a couple of the bird shots could have been a little sharper with a higher shutter speed, they were all shot at less than 1/160 second.

http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/261325226_ERVAt-XL.jpg

http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/263340449_8VwC6-X2.jpg

http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/263339364_29THQ-XL.jpg
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/263340288_XqJPC-XL.jpg
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/261331341_Q3Hmq-X2.jpg

No tele 1/250 second
http://mrs-h.smugmug.com/photos/263347213_Vz8bh-XL.jpg

[Scuff]

Here is one from yesterday. A Kestrel landing. Whilst not critically sharp, I was pretty impressed considering the focal length and the low shutter speed. DoF was predictably very thin!

1dMkIII - 300mm f2.8is with Canon 2x converter. Hand held 1/100th sec @f9 - Yes that's 780mm equivalent!!! 400asa.
http://www.gtmedia.com/bwc-4.jpg

[Tareq]

Here is one from yesterday. A Kestrel landing. Whilst not critically sharp, I was pretty impressed considering the focal length and the low shutter speed. DoF was predictably very thin!

1dMkIII - 300mm f2.8is with Canon 2x converter. Hand held 1/100th sec @f9 - Yes that's 780mm equivalent!!! 400asa.
http://www.gtmedia.com/bwc-4.jpg


Damn, that is so sharp, making me to go and use this combo even there are no birds.

[Perry Ge]

Double you tee eff :shock:.

This lens is ridiculous. Why did I look at this thread?

[Tareq]

I couldn't resist
I took this lens one connect it with 2x TC then both on my 1D MKIIN

here are few shots:

1.
http://img379.imageshack.us/img379/5210/img0839fx2.jpg

2.
http://img390.imageshack.us/img390/2880/img0910jp5.jpg

3.
http://img371.imageshack.us/img371/9861/img0937pp1.jpg

4.
http://img372.imageshack.us/img372/5211/img0940hz7.jpg

5.
http://img373.imageshack.us/img373/665/img0946no3.jpg

6.
http://img388.imageshack.us/img388/4525/img0960xr3.jpg

All handheld.

[rstuntz]

I though I would add a few more pictures. All with the 2X.

http://www.stuntzonline.com/thread/Eagles%20and%20Herons%20199.jpg

http://www.stuntzonline.com/thread/Eagles%20and%20Herons%20249.jpg

http://www.stuntzonline.com/thread/Eagles%20and%20Herons%20305.jpg

http://www.stuntzonline.com/thread/Bald%20Eagles%20and%20Herons%20128.jpg

http://www.stuntzonline.com/thread/Bald%20Eagles%20and%20Herons%20182.jpg

[Roy Webber]

Very impressive!

[randyk]

Do you want to see sharp? Here is the full size shot, just reduced for the web. Looks OK, nice pop, but nothing really special since the subject is so small in relation to the frame:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229956.jpg

But here is a 100% center crop of the same image:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229957.jpg

300 2.8 IS, f5, 1/800, ISO 800, no converter

[Tareq]

Do you want to see sharp? Here is the full size shot, just reduced for the web. Looks OK, nice pop, but nothing really special since the subject is so small in relation to the frame:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229956.jpg

But here is a 100% center crop of the same image:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229957.jpg

300 2.8 IS, f5, 1/800, ISO 800, no converter

I don't want to post shots taken by 300 f2.8IS without TC, i have DAMN sharp shots taken in the past by this lens that making me feel bad that this lens is MAGIC.
Nice shots anyway.

[JerseyGirl]

these are all spectacular pictures. For a little more range, I was considering buying the Sigma for Canon 120-300 2.8. Do you think I'd be able to get similar results with a lens like that? Anyone have an experience with one? Is it comparable? (or is this a whole 'nother thread???)

[zed]

these are all spectacular pictures. For a little more range, I was considering buying the Sigma for Canon 120-300 2.8. Do you think I'd be able to get similar results with a lens like that? Anyone have an experience with one? Is it comparable? (or is this a whole 'nother thread???)


http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=277729

[JerseyGirl]

so the answer is yes :-) those are damn good!

[dÄb]

You gotta be kiddin....Sigma zoom vs THE Canon prime? :roll:

[Perry Ge]

You gotta be kiddin....Sigma zoom vs THE Canon prime? :roll:
The Sigma 120-300 is an absolute cracker of a lens, it's excellent. Having said that though, the 300 f/2.8 IS L is just in a class of its own.

[randyk]

The Sigma 120-300 is an absolute cracker of a lens, it's excellent. Having said that though, the 300 f/2.8 IS L is just in a class of its own.

A lot of people that own this lens really like it, I have seen great shots from it. But also many complain about various issues and I see several sold and upgrading to the Canon 300 2.8. No issues with the Canon.

[4g63photo]

these are all spectacular pictures. For a little more range, I was considering buying the Sigma for Canon 120-300 2.8. Do you think I'd be able to get similar results with a lens like that? Anyone have an experience with one? Is it comparable? (or is this a whole 'nother thread???)

No! Never. Not even close. ;)

[RikWriter]

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/86441908.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/86440039.jpg

With the 1.4X:

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/78209355.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/77750427.jpg

With the 2X:
http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/84412609.jpg

[Paul S]

Here is one with a 1.4x tele and 100% crop.
http://i21.photobucket.com/albums/b264/fernie94/pic.jpg

It's all your fault !!! After seeing this photos a few months ago I could not resist. It was a choice - another body or a lens. Thanks guys, I love this lens

[tonylong]

Something from today: I took a trip to my little local getaway and used my Mk III and my 300 mm 2.8 IS monted on a monopod to get these shots.

The first is full view, followed by a 100% crop and then a 100% crop of another shot.

The first is a tad soft but I still like it, the last is great both in sharpness and in, well, teeth, water drops and all!

This lens is great -- viewing at 100% is the only way to realize how it distinguishes itself. Of 300 shots taken there were only a handful that were out of focus, and I only deleted twenty-something in all!

Not-a-duck #1:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/94796581.jpg

Not-a-duck #2:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/94796580.jpg

Not-a-duck #3:
http://www.pbase.com/tonylong/image/94796582.jpg

[Jack_C]

Great lens for low light and when the 500 is just too big (which is most of the time ;) )

http://www.pbase.com/jackcnd/image/94491325/original.jpg

[AdamJL]

Do you want to see sharp? Here is the full size shot, just reduced for the web. Looks OK, nice pop, but nothing really special since the subject is so small in relation to the frame:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229956.jpg

But here is a 100% center crop of the same image:

http://www.mustangmods.com/ims/u/95/9473/229957.jpg

300 2.8 IS, f5, 1/800, ISO 800, no converter

Oh Sweet Jesus.....

[TooManyShots]

Mine is coming this Friday. :) After this purchase I seriously think that I would spend less and less money on lens now.

[Paul S]

Mine is coming this Friday. :) After this purchase I seriously think that I would spend less and less money on lens now.

congratulations :D See it wasn't that hard.

[tonylong]

Mine is coming this Friday. :) After this purchase I seriously think that I would spend less and less money on lens now.

Congrats on the purchase of a great piece of gear!

And yes, I predict that your next lens purchases will probably be less than this one:)!

Of course, that 500 f/4 IS might be beckoning...

[Bubble]

Mine is coming this Friday. :) After this purchase I seriously think that I would spend less and less money on lens now.

will see about that. :)

[Tareq]

Mine is coming this Friday. :) After this purchase I seriously think that I would spend less and less money on lens now.

Amen!

*even i never believe you will spend less when you get something long and expensive, it is just the beginning*

[TooManyShots]

Well, there was a mishap with the online retailer Canoga with my order. I am still without a 300L f2.8 IS. At first, I didn't have the money. Now, I got the money, the first place I ordered (Canoga) wouldn't sell it to me (long story). I am slightly discouraged now.

congratulations :D See it wasn't that hard.

[Paul S]

Well, there was a mishap with the online retailer Canoga with my order. I am still without a 300L f2.8 IS. At first, I didn't have the money. Now, I got the money, the first place I ordered (Canoga) wouldn't sell it to me (long story). I am slightly discouraged now.

B&H ?? or Wait for a used one :D

[TooManyShots]

I don't know. I need a new bird lens replacement. Dropping down $4300 for one at BH (local pickup) seems a bit expensive. :) The word "expensive" seems to be coming out from nowhere whenever I asked the sales person about the 300L F2.8 IS. My other alternatives would be getting a 40D with a 400L F5.6 and I would still coming out saving a lot of money that way. The problem is that all 400L F5.6 are out of stock in most places. BH won't get them until middle of May the latest.

B&H ?? or Wait for a used one :D

[tonylong]

The good news about the 300 (f/2.8) is that it also can play well with the 2x TC, meaning you can get more reach with AF than you can with the 400 5.6. So, you might want to hang in there for the 300, 'cause for the price you get a useable 600 f/5.6!

[crazyskillz07]

Someone smack me. I just had the craziest thought. I thought I might be able to afford this lens if I got a second job and saved for the whole summer. I think I may give it a try. I was planning on getting a 1d mark II and a 24-70L and 2 ab1600's with skyports light stand etc...before I went away to school for shooting sports. Maybe this lens would be a better idea...Uggghhhhh.. Maybe next year!

[Bubble]

every time i use this lens, i just love it more. Incredible sharp and detail. :)

http://www.dslr-lens.com/data/albums/userpics/10001/1~8.jpg

100% crop

http://www.dslr-lens.com/data/albums/userpics/10001/croop.jpg

[Nick_b]

I rented this lens for the weekend and just returned it today. I'm very sad to see it gone, what a great lens.

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k162/nickandaline/racing/racing-27.jpg

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k162/nickandaline/Themoon-4.jpg


http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k162/nickandaline/Themoon-43.jpg

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k162/nickandaline/Themoon-33.jpg

http://i88.photobucket.com/albums/k162/nickandaline/racing/racing-4.jpg

I'm crying a little right now.......... farewell my friend, until we meet again........

[AeroSmith]

EF 300 f/2.8L IS with the 1.4x II t-con on the 1D2N.



f/5; 1/2000; ISO 250.

http://AeroSmith.smugmug.com/photos/162300851_yD6yS-L.jpg



f/5; 1/1600; ISO 400.

http://AeroSmith.smugmug.com/photos/162292237_zV6M8-L.jpg



f/5; 1/1250; ISO 250.

http://AeroSmith.smugmug.com/photos/162288866_Rp52u-L.jpg

[michael_]

my favourite portrait lens in the field

[RX350]

I need to stop reading this site , I just ordered mine .:rolleyes: after reading this thread :-D

[AdamJL]

Mine arrives tomorrow!! Come on Kerso, don't let me down!

[Kyl3]

This is my favourite lens for motorsport :D So versatile!

http://www.kylesharpphoto.com/gallery/d/16986-2/EOS_6340.jpg

http://www.kylesharpphoto.com/gallery/d/16984-2/EOS_6267.jpg

[Bosscat]

I rented one for the last two snowcross races, and now I want one really bad. What seemed like a good idea is now gonna cost me......lol.
Just so happy I can't rent a 600mm

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

[Tareq]

I rented one for the last two snowcross races, and now I want one really bad. What seemed like a good idea is now gonna cost me......lol.
Just so happy I can't rent a 600mm

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Man, you are lucky.
I just touch those lenses and get cursed, i touched 300 in the past and within 2 or 3 weeks it is on my cameras, i touched 600 about 2 months ago and seems this curse taking longer time to be active :( good i didn't touch 1Ds3 or H3D 39mp.

[Tareq]

Oh i forgot that i touched 400 as well, so that there are 2 curses inside my fighting, and when one will win i will see what will happen.

[Bosscat]

I fought off the 1 series curse after renting one last fall, but this 300mm 2.8 curse may be harder to break for me, cause I also will be renting either that or the 400mm 2.8 for a sportscar race.

Note to self...........never rent a Porsche

[WillOPhotos]

ahhh yes the 300mm 2.8 is awesome :) the 400mm 2.8 is twice as heavy as the 300mm im prety sure?

[cwphoto]

This is my favourite lens for motorsport :D So versatile!

http://www.kylesharpphoto.com/gallery/d/16986-2/EOS_6340.jpg

http://www.kylesharpphoto.com/gallery/d/16984-2/EOS_6267.jpg

Awesome.

[cwphoto]

I rented one for the last two snowcross races, and now I want one really bad. What seemed like a good idea is now gonna cost me......lol.
Just so happy I can't rent a 600mm

:rolleyes::rolleyes::rolleyes:

Just sick.

[Bubble]

ahhh yes the 300mm 2.8 is awesome :) the 400mm 2.8 is twice as heavy as the 300mm im prety sure?

yup. 5.6 lbs vs 11.8 lbs

[Bosscat]

Please pass the spinach if I rent that 400mm then......lol

[llenuts]

Recently bough this lens, along with one of each of the TC's. The quality is astounding either bare, with either TC, or with both TC's stacked.

Heres a few from me...

First two are 300mm + 1.4x TC
Moon shot is 300mm + 1.4x TC + 2x TC

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2277/2519378281_d5e4809f8f_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3108/2520198950_1e0f0dba91_o.jpg
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3241/2512858255_50b83bbe3a_o.jpg

[saiminyaku]

in the name of something greater, goodness!

this lens is the very reason you won't be seeing me adding a 1DsmkIII to my collection.

i'd buy this lens before i bought another body. the way these take TCs is @^$!'in incredible. in my opinion (from a spectator's point of view), this lens is worth every penny.

1/25th handheld shots? i mean...are you kidding me?

definitely bagging this at some point. no question.

[malla1962]

All these are with the 300 and 1.4.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X0413.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X0708.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X0543.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X0515.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X0999.jpg

[AdamJL]

Excellent last shot there.
My copy of this lens should hopefully come this week.

[RX350]

let me add few ,
http://www.sr-foto.com/photos/306921300_oZt2z-XL.jpg
.
http://www.sr-foto.com/photos/306357843_DyZub-XL.jpg
.
http://www.sr-foto.com/photos/306348219_nwgb8-XL.jpg

[4x4rock]

A couple to add to the library :)

http://www.jumpset.com/img/v2/p212060558-4.jpg

http://www.jumpset.com/img/v2/p176145652-4.jpg

http://www.jumpset.com/img/v2/p453076836-4.jpg

[4g63photo]

Kiiler shots 4X4.

[andydajo]

Great shot 4x4rock. Just ordered my 300mm f/2.8 IS so I can't wait to get out and about with it.

[RX350]

one more , 300 f2.8 +2tc+1.4tc ,
http://SergeyR.smugmug.com/photos/310975755_UDACM-XL.jpg

[Zebceponaf]

THIS LENS IS RIDICULOUS!!



why did i find this thread...

[Tareq]

Nice shots everybody, i love this lens more and more everyday.

[AdamJL]

Mine arrives today :D

[Tareq]

Mine arrives today :D

I thought you delivered it earlier, what did you get in few days ago then? or is it someone else who was waiting 300 f2.8 or MKIII or 5D or 40D? sorry

Congrats! we are waiting your shots ;)

[AdamJL]

You have me confused with someone else I'm afraid. I've had no new equipment since last August.
Can't wait, too excited to be at work.

[Tareq]

You have me confused with someone else I'm afraid. I've had no new equipment since last August.
Can't wait, too excited to be at work.

Ah ok, maybe i confused you with many others not just someone ;)
Congrats again, and hope you will love it and have fun with it, ENJOY!!!

[Paul S]

The 300 2.8 presents a big problem!! I'm now comparing that IQ to my other lenses. :rolleyes:

[Tareq]

The 300 2.8 presents a big problem!! I'm now comparing that IQ to my other lenses. :rolleyes:

Don't compare it with any zoom, just focus to compare it with primes like 400 f2.8, 500, 200 f2 .... ;)

[4x4rock]

Thanks guys...

The problem with having this lens is I'm starting the bag hunting season all over again and it's not easy this time - some are way too big and others fit right but leaves room for nothing else. :(

[Scuff]

All posted elsewhere on this forum, but I thought I would chuck them in here for those thinking of getting the 300.

http://www.gtmedia.com/images/BWC.jpg

http://www.gtmedia.com/images/BWC0.jpg

http://www.gtmedia.com/images/BWC2.jpg

http://www.gtmedia.com/images/BWC4.jpg

[Double Negative]

Wow Scuff, those are awesome.

I got mine yesterday, hit a local nature preserve for a precious 30-45 minutes over lunch today. Got someone clamming and a couple of seabirds... Will post up later.

I am LOVING this lens, especially with TCs.