Canon EF 300mm f/4L IS USM [Archive] - Page 9 - Canon Digital Photography Forums

digital paradise

6th of February 2011 (Sun), 07:25

This is a great lens and I want to get myself one. I have a 1.4 TC but it will be nice if I can use a 2.0 TC to make the lens 600mm for taking photos of birds. That is the quality like of the photos taken with the 2.0 TC and can you recommend it? I know that the autofocus will not work in this setup.

TC 2.0 II does not do that great on the 300 L F4. That is if you are looking for crisp photos. Where it excels is on the 300L 2.8. However Canon just released TC 2.0 III and perhaps this would do the trick. Another consideration for birding is the 400L F4. That is a sweet lens however no IS. Not sure how important that is to you.

This was taken with the 300 and 1.4 II.

http://i33.photobucket.com/albums/d74/Zenon1/FWa2-1.jpg

pwven

6th of February 2011 (Sun), 10:12

TC 2.0 II does not do that great on the 300 L F4. That is if you are looking for crisp photos. Where it excels is on the 300L 2.8. However Canon just released TC 2.0 III and perhaps this would do the trick. Another consideration for birding is the 400L F4. That is a sweet lens however no IS. Not sure how important that is to you.

This was taken with the 300 and 1.4 II.

Thanks for the info paradise. I did expect the TC 2.0 not to perform to well with the f4 lens.I will like to get the 300mm L 2.8
but this lens do not fit into my budget.

Ricardo222

6th of February 2011 (Sun), 14:13

TC 2.0 II does not do that great on the 300 L F4. That is if you are looking for crisp photos. Where it excels is on the 300L 2.8. However Canon just released TC 2.0 III and perhaps this would do the trick. Another consideration for birding is the 400L F4. That is a sweet lens however no IS. Not sure how important that is to you.

I agree...the 300 + 1.4x is okay...just. But you won't get those super crisp shots you can get without extension. I would like to try the 400 5.6 but feel that the reach is still not suffucuent so am saving for a 500 f4....if I could find a good used one I'd be happy. Maybe when the new Mk 2s come out!:confused:

jupera

6th of February 2011 (Sun), 15:34

With 7D
http://flowers.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Garden%20fellows/talv_kot-stia_3991d2_ap_270111.jpg/_smaller.jpg

digital paradise

7th of February 2011 (Mon), 09:31

I agree...the 300 + 1.4x is okay...just. But you won't get those super crisp shots you can get without extension. I would like to try the 400 5.6 but feel that the reach is still not suffucuent so am saving for a 500 f4....if I could find a good used one I'd be happy. Maybe when the new Mk 2s come out!:confused:

That is true. I prefer not to use the 1.4 but will if I have to. Cropping gets tougher and you can see the IQ loss. The 500 is my dream lens as well.

You must have telepathic powers. Canon just announced the 500 and 600 MK2. They also announced a 200-400 with built in 1.4 lens for birding/wildlife.

Ricardo222

7th of February 2011 (Mon), 16:59

That is true. I prefer not to use the 1.4 but will if I have to. Cropping gets tougher and you can see the IQ loss. The 500 is my dream lens as well.

You must have telepathic powers. Canon just announced the 500 and 600 MK2. They also announced a 200-400 with built in 1.4 lens for birding/wildlife.

Yes, I see that!

Maybe you and I can use our telepathic powers to encourage some of those current 500 f4 owners to upgrade, and sell their old lenses at "fair" prices!:D

scubthebub

7th of February 2011 (Mon), 17:22

It's interesting how with the latest announcement that Canon is upgrading all their 300mm + primes except for the 300 f/4, 400 f/5.6, and 800. I have a feeling that they are going to produce some awesome resolution 1d or 5dmIII camera that is going to take the advantage of all these new lenses and optics. More relevant to this thread is the hope that the old 300 (1997) and/or 400 (1993) might get an upgrade in the near future. Some new optics, new 4 stop IS, and weather sealing would be nice.

The current upgrades will probably sell well with the professional community so i wonder what will happen to the prosumer lenses that need updating like the 300, 400, and 100-400 for that matter.

digital paradise

7th of February 2011 (Mon), 20:39

Yes, I see that!

Maybe you and I can use our telepathic powers to encourage some of those current 500 f4 owners to upgrade, and sell their old lenses at "fair" prices!:D

I'm chanting as I write this. HMMMMMMMM ;)

By-tor

8th of February 2011 (Tue), 21:10

I have been looking at this lens for sometime now and have browsed this thread a few times and really love the shots all of you have posted.

Now just have to talk myself into selling my 70-200mm 2.8 IS to buy it. lol

scubthebub

14th of February 2011 (Mon), 16:58

EF 300 f/4L IS II Patent, interesting...

http://www.canonrumors.com/2011/02/ef-300-f4l-is-ii-patent/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+canonrumors%2Frss+%28Canon+Ru mors%29

Ricardo222

14th of February 2011 (Mon), 17:20

EF 300 f/4L IS II Patent, interesting...

http://www.canonrumors.com/2011/02/ef-300-f4l-is-ii-patent/?utm_source=feedburner&utm_medium=feed&utm_campaign=Feed%3A+canonrumors%2Frss+%28Canon+Ru mors%29

Interesting! If the improvements are similar to the longer lenses...I'll be in for a new one.

nikmar08

14th of February 2011 (Mon), 22:16

Ricardo222

15th of February 2011 (Tue), 02:54

Man, this thread is evil; just couldn't get my eyes off it browsing the pics for the past 3 hours. My bank balanace is so under threat.

Has anyone tried this with the new MkIII TCs? Post some pics please.

I may be wrong but my understanding is that the MkIIIs may not make much different to the older lenses. They are said to be "tuned" more to the new crop of zooms and super-zooms, and have improvements in the signal transmission which matches them. I read this somewhere...will try and find a reference.

Canon Europe says "Compared to their Mark II predecessors they offer photographers improved performance with the latest generation of Canon L-series telephoto and super-telephoto lenses." And there is reference to improved AF.

So don't expect startlingly better optics...and the price will be high no doubt.

scubthebub

15th of February 2011 (Tue), 10:12

I may be wrong but my understanding is that the MkIIIs may not make much different to the older lenses. They are said to be "tuned" more to the new crop of zooms and super-zooms, and have improvements in the signal transmission which matches them. I read this somewhere...will try and find a reference.

Canon Europe says "Compared to their Mark II predecessors they offer photographers improved performance with the latest generation of Canon L-series telephoto and super-telephoto lenses." And there is reference to improved AF.

So don't expect startlingly better optics...and the price will be high no doubt.
TDP already has 100% crops up for the new TC and as was already stated there is only slight improvement with the 1.4 and very little/none with the 2x. Mouse over for the other TC

Comparing the 1.4x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

Comparing the 2.0x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

ukactionsports

15th of February 2011 (Tue), 11:39

I was thinking of selling mine but seeing these images I may need to think again! :)

Ricardo222

15th of February 2011 (Tue), 13:48

TDP already has 100% crops up for the new TC and as was already stated there is only slight improvement with the 1.4 and very little/none with the 2x. Mouse over for the other TC

Comparing the 1.4x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

Comparing the 2.0x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

Cheers!:)

tariktik

17th of February 2011 (Thu), 22:35

Hello,

I bought this lens from a POTN member two weeks ago and was only able to use it today.

Here is my obligatory duck shot. :)

Feel free to C&C.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5258/5454525659_e4b1decee3_b.jpg

Ricardo222

18th of February 2011 (Fri), 00:38

It's a very fine duck shot. And I'm sure the duck was happy to be shot by your 300 f4 and not a 12 guage!

patrickf117

18th of February 2011 (Fri), 00:57

It's a very fine duck shot. And I'm sure the duck was happy to be shot by your 300 f4 and not a 12 guage!

lol...:D

tariktik

18th of February 2011 (Fri), 08:20

It's a very fine duck shot. And I'm sure the duck was happy to be shot by your 300 f4 and not a 12 guage!

Thanks! .... and LOL + 1. :D

Carlton750

19th of February 2011 (Sat), 13:30

With 7D
http://flowers.kuvat.fi/kuvat/Garden%20fellows/talv_kot-stia_3991d2_ap_270111.jpg/_smaller.jpg

This is awesome, I love the colors. bw!

jupera

19th of February 2011 (Sat), 15:43

Thanks!

Ricardo222

19th of February 2011 (Sat), 16:46

Leaving the dock

Racer997

21st of February 2011 (Mon), 08:28

Panning...

http://racer997.smugmug.com/Other/CMRA-MSRH-02192011/JR4B5288/1192537604_85kB5-XL.jpg

Stopping action...

http://racer997.smugmug.com/Other/CMRA-MSRH-02192011/JR4B5529/1192536723_b6pwM-XL.jpg

Still...

http://racer997.smugmug.com/Other/CMRA-MSRH-02192011/JR4B5537/1192532748_S2XAr-XL.jpg

EdBray

21st of February 2011 (Mon), 13:54

I would crop out the part cone in #2 at the LH edge. Makes the image much stronger.

EdBray

21st of February 2011 (Mon), 14:01

2 clicks with content aware fill (cs5)

http://i332.photobucket.com/albums/m338/EdBray/bikesedit.jpg

Racer997

21st of February 2011 (Mon), 14:58

^^^^^

http://cliparts101.com/files/345/B9CE132C27FF6B89DF660D5815913B63/Thumbs_up_smiley.png

nikmar08

22nd of February 2011 (Tue), 15:57

Has anyone tried this with the new MkIII TCs? Post some pics please.

TDP already has 100% crops up for the new TC and as was already stated there is only slight improvement with the 1.4 and very little/none with the 2x. Mouse over for the other TC

Comparing the 1.4x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

Comparing the 2.0x's
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=111&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=111&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

Thanks Ricardo222 and scubthebub. The TDP shots that Scub referenced were taken with 1Ds but definitely show the MkIII to be giving better results. Since I have the 7D, just curious what results to expect with it and the new TCs.

Viewing shots with the 7D + 300 f/4 IS + 1.4xIII/2xIII combo will greatly help.

tariktik

23rd of February 2011 (Wed), 14:56

My first attempt at BIFs.

Feel free to C&C.

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5471530199_85bc0fc1ce_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5016/5472122832_cfb313edff_b.jpg

EdBray

23rd of February 2011 (Wed), 15:38

I really like the first, if these are your first attempt I can't wait to see what you produce when you have had some practise.

Ricardo222

23rd of February 2011 (Wed), 17:35

Well done. Is that a skua gull?

tariktik

23rd of February 2011 (Wed), 18:32

@EdBray: Thanks! This is my first "L" that I bought from a POTN member about a couple of weeks ago. Tried doing BIFs and this is what I got. My keeper rate for BIF on this lens is about 2 for every 10 shots. Hopefully, through practice, I'll increase my keepers. :)

@Ricardo222: I'm not sure what kind of gull this is. This was taken in New Jersey, USA.

Mark42

5th of March 2011 (Sat), 15:37

Just got this Lens so 1st time using it.
Also a DSLR newbie too.;)
Help from you guys is appreciated.

Copidosoma

11th of March 2011 (Fri), 15:20

Could have got a bit closer to this guy but this image demonstrates this lens' ability to handle some of the hig res sensors out there. I don't even want to think how a large print made from these shots would look. Soon though, very soon...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5056/5518378092_b21867e244_b.jpg

100% crop

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5091/5517685797_ae90ed4915_b.jpg

Dillan_K

13th of March 2011 (Sun), 22:13

Sorry, not a bird, but still, I enjoyed photographing it:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5298/5524091287_3a21ac0663_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5524091287/)

EF 300mm f/4L IS @ f/25 ISO 100

Yes, it was still sharp at f/25.

scubthebub

13th of March 2011 (Sun), 22:44

Sorry, not a bird, but still, I enjoyed photographing it:

EF 300mm f/4L IS @ f/25 ISO 100

Yes, it was still sharp at f/25.
I'm assuming that the 1/10 sec exposure means this was tripod mounted? If not you have some of the most steady hands I've ever seen.

meh_meli

13th of March 2011 (Sun), 23:04

High school concert with a special guest.

nikmar08

14th of March 2011 (Mon), 02:13

Sorry, not a bird, but still, I enjoyed photographing it:

EF 300mm f/4L IS @ f/25 ISO 100

Yes, it was still sharp at f/25.

Any particular reason for f/25?!!

Ricardo222

14th of March 2011 (Mon), 03:34

Any particular reason for f/25?!!

I imagine to slow the shutter speed. Nice effect!:cool:

Dillan_K

15th of March 2011 (Tue), 23:07

Yes, I did use a tripod. I'm not THAT steady, even with IS. f/25 was used because it was still afternoon. I didn't expect to see anything but ice, so I didn't bring an ND filter with me. I was pleasantly surprised to see so much flowing water! I improvised, and it turned out not too badly. Thanks for the comments!

Ricardo222

16th of March 2011 (Wed), 05:24

Seascape

Sydor25

19th of March 2011 (Sat), 12:16

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Flowers-202.jpg

Dillan_K

19th of March 2011 (Sat), 20:33

Wide open:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5137/5541060749_89677a07a3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5541060749/)
Overlooked (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5541060749/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Dillan_K

20th of March 2011 (Sun), 16:07

Sydor25, those flowers are very nice. I like to use the 300mm f/4L IS USM for near-macro work. It's an unexpected bonus use of the lens. I find that it's wonderful for picking out small parts of a scene.

Mike53545

21st of March 2011 (Mon), 01:12

7D 300 f/4L @ 5.6

http://i86.photobucket.com/albums/k95/mgnphoto/MGNphoto_5628.jpg

lanton

24th of March 2011 (Thu), 23:04

I love this lens!

Kiwikat

27th of March 2011 (Sun), 04:09

I haven't posted anything in this thread for ages, so here's a few of my favorites from my 300.

My obligatory Supermoon shot ;)
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5255/5543787265_b5f90001df_b.jpg

Wisconsin Air National Guard F-16 @ Airventure 2010
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4128/4839545992_a9e481f4ec_b.jpg

Bald Eagle closely watching me...
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4098/4816634870_0a9e8c7565_b.jpg

Every time I go out with this lens, its versatility surprises me. Can't wait to go shooting today! Hopefully I'll come back with something to share! :D

Mike53545

27th of March 2011 (Sun), 23:05

^^^^ Nice shot of the Viper!!! :cool:

mikiort

29th of March 2011 (Tue), 14:53

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5110/5563825921_758de2cd03_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55881919@N07/5563825921/)
IMG_4268s (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55881919@N07/5563825921/)

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5138/5559152459_cb6d10f6d5_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55881919@N07/5559152459/)
IMG_0082ss (http://www.flickr.com/photos/55881919@N07/5559152459/)

Kiwikat

29th of March 2011 (Tue), 21:52

Beautiful shots mikiort!

This lens is great for BBIF (big birds in flight)...

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5265/5571955915_991b736867_b.jpg

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5136/5571956113_0bb3af4d62_b.jpg

nikmar08

30th of March 2011 (Wed), 19:19

^^ Nice shots these... did you crop them any?

Kiwikat

31st of March 2011 (Thu), 03:26

^^ Nice shots these... did you crop them any?

Yes, but not a whole lot. The second one moreso than the first. In the first shot, the crane flew practically right over us.

Dillan_K

2nd of April 2011 (Sat), 20:21

My very pregnant wife trying to be patient as I take her portrait in the snow:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5270/5583253023_3eb4b85555_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5583253023/)
Ika in April snow (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5583253023/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Yes, I took this today, April 2, 2011. Winter will not leave us!

I like the 300mm f/4L IS USM as a portrait lens.

ChunkyDA

8th of April 2011 (Fri), 21:51

Makes a nice baseball lens for reach to the pitcher and second base with 1D series.

kbColorado

12th of April 2011 (Tue), 01:16

When I picked this lens up used I had in mind shots like the first ... and have been pleasantly surprised with results like the second

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j100/kbtrans/bighorn1024.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j100/kbtrans/heidi1024.jpg

Ricardo222

12th of April 2011 (Tue), 03:57

Waiting

red snapper

12th of April 2011 (Tue), 04:35

When I picked this lens up used I had in mind shots like the first ... and have been pleasantly surprised with results like the second

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j100/kbtrans/bighorn1024.jpg

Great shot, somewhat creepy, weird even, but great timing.

nightcat

12th of April 2011 (Tue), 05:34

Picasso would have certainly appreciated the above photo!

Ricardo222

16th of April 2011 (Sat), 05:52

Another ship leaving port...

Dillan_K

24th of April 2011 (Sun), 22:41

Taken today:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5304/5652210776_de6569d9f3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5652210776/)
Spring Chickidee (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5652210776/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Ricardo222

24th of April 2011 (Sun), 23:23

^^Very nice shot, Dillan.

From yesterday...the Red Baron's Flying Circus flies again!

alpk

25th of April 2011 (Mon), 13:19

^^Very nice shot, Dillan.

From yesterday...the Red Baron's Flying Circus flies again!

WOW :O

Dillan_K

25th of April 2011 (Mon), 22:53

Thanks Ricardo! I really have to take it to an air show one day. That looks like fun!

Here are a couple more from today:

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5109/5656461032_3a6c919623_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5656461032/)
Whitetail late April near sunset (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5656461032/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5030/5656446530_b8cae8b6eb_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5656446530/)
Whitetail late April near sunset (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5656446530/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

The first one is wide open, the second at f/5.6. I know, I should have done it the other way around, but they both turned out nice.

Carlton750

26th of April 2011 (Tue), 23:17

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5261/5659078105_1aec9d2493_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/37217582@N08/5659078105/)
IMG_7979.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/37217582@N08/5659078105/) by Carlton750 (http://www.flickr.com/people/37217582@N08/), on Flickr
http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5182/5659041851_678db1c1a3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/37217582@N08/5659041851/)
IMG_7893.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/37217582@N08/5659041851/) by Carlton750 (http://www.flickr.com/people/37217582@N08/), on Flickr

Ricardo222

26th of April 2011 (Tue), 23:50

^^ That is SOOOO cool! Great pics Carlton.

cathy51

27th of April 2011 (Wed), 19:25

I have been sitting on the fence about this lens for some time, but after looking thru all these shots I won't be sitting there much longer!!

Ricardo222

27th of April 2011 (Wed), 20:15

I have been sitting on the fence about this lens for some time, but after looking thru all these shots I won't be sitting there much longer!!

I think you'll love it Cathy. If you've been used to a zoom telephoto it takes a moment or two to get used to the fixed long FL.
One of it's great virtues is a short MFD and it works terrifically with an extension tube for "distant" close-ups!

Carlton750

27th of April 2011 (Wed), 21:05

^^ That is SOOOO cool! Great pics Carlton.

Thanks! :D

JLBS

28th of April 2011 (Thu), 10:38

Brutal shoots Carlton!!!

cathy51

28th of April 2011 (Thu), 17:17

I just found and bought one Riccardo...I a REALLY looking forward to it!!!!

meh_meli

28th of April 2011 (Thu), 18:11

!!!!!
Welcome to the 300 club. Just like bowling

Ricardo222

28th of April 2011 (Thu), 19:14

I just found and bought one Riccardo...I a REALLY looking forward to it!!!!

Great...well done Cathy! Keep us posted with the results please.:)

It may help to remember one small idiosyncracy...if you're using it on a tripod turn the IS off....it's quite an old design and I don't believe the Image Stabiliser is tripod sensing.

OZBob

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 04:17

Anyone else have an issue with front/back focus, but only with longer distance shots?

Ricardo222

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 07:22

Anyone else have an issue with front/back focus, but only with longer distance shots?

Nope!

meh_meli

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 13:57

Mine will front focus on a 40D, I believe it to be the camera though.

lanton

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 16:59

@ f4

lanton

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 17:02

@ 5.6

lanton

29th of April 2011 (Fri), 17:10

@ 4 w/ 1.4 ex

rick_reno

1st of May 2011 (Sun), 01:40

Took my new 300 out today for some hand held shots. Found this little thing stealing food that is put out for the birds.

Joe52

1st of May 2011 (Sun), 06:38

Shot with my new 300mm f4 + Kenko/Tokina 1.4x Pro 300, no PP, just resized.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/Dam1.jpg

100% Crop:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/Dam2.jpg

KenjiS

2nd of May 2011 (Mon), 21:58

Hows the 300 + 1.4x @ f/8? :)

lanton

3rd of May 2011 (Tue), 21:56

Hows the 300 + 1.4x @ f/8? :)

Here are a couple from this afternoon with the 300 + 1.4 @ f/8.

KenjiS

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 01:57

^- how can you NOT love that face! :)

cathy51

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 16:10

Mine arrived late this afternoon :)

Joe52

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 18:02

Mine arrived late this afternoon :)

You'll have great fun with it Cathy ;)

Here's two, with the 300mm + 1.4

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_2528_crb.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_2356_crb.jpg

Ricardo222

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 18:23

Nice work, Joe. That's a great looking lunch!

Dillan_K

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 20:43

Those are great, Joe!

KenjiS

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 21:31

^- I love this little lens

kbColorado

5th of May 2011 (Thu), 22:08

Those are great, Joe!

Joes got me seriously considering a 1.4 ex to go with this lens. Fantastic :D

cathy51

6th of May 2011 (Fri), 07:01

i am thinking about the Canon 1.4 converter...is the mkII version a huge upgrade from the first one?

Joe52

6th of May 2011 (Fri), 11:19

i am thinking about the Canon 1.4 converter...is the mkII version a huge upgrade from the first one?

I'm using a Kenko 1.4, gives very good results, cheaper price than the canons too.

cathy51

6th of May 2011 (Fri), 11:25

thanks Joe, I will look into that!!

cathy

KenjiS

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 00:14

So....

If you were dissatisfied with your 100-400's optical performance would the 300L be a good choice? Anyone here with both or a previous owner wanna chime in?

Ricardo222

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:26

So....

If you were dissatisfied with your 100-400's optical performance would the 300L be a good choice? Anyone here with both or a previous owner wanna chime in?

I would say yes, as although it is now a quite old design the 300 f4 is a good sharp lens, with good contrast and an almost uncanny knack to cut atmospheric haze...at least better than anything I've owned before.
You'd possibly miss the extra 100mm of FL though.

DM1975

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:29

I need to get another one of these. The one I had before was so nice, and nothing to date that I have had replacing it comes anywhere close to its performance.

KenjiS

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:33

I would say yes, as although it is now a quite old design the 300 f4 is a good sharp lens, with good contrast and an almost uncanny knack to cut atmospheric haze...at least better than anything I've owned before.
You'd possibly miss the extra 100mm of FL though.

Well im planning to grab a 1.4x teleconverter with the purchase...From the photozone scores the 1.4x pretty much does nothing to the IQ and i have no complaint putting it down to f/8 if need be

My 100-400 is used at 300-400 90% of the time, For shorter than that I'd rather have something a bit faster anyways...

I really like what I've seen from the lens and i see it as a way to get something slightly lighter, smaller, sharper, faster (at 300) and with a better MFD since i do flowers and plants alot (I feel the 300 would give me an interesting new perspective to frame from :))

Also the 300 prime is a little easier to camoflage than my 100-400...I found the white color can be a problem sometimes and the 100-400 lenscoat is a little cumbersome looking to me (as theres a seperate part for the inner barrel you have to remove if you zoom it..)

Ricardo222

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:39

KenjiS

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 02:54

Kenji, there's one thing I forgot to mention...with an extension tube or two the lens is unbelievable as a long distance macro lens. Several people have made stunning posts in this thread to show how good it is in that role.

Really? I'd expect it would handle a closeup filter(like the 500D) better than an extension tube

Hmn..definately giving me more reasons to purchase it...

Joe52

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 03:33

It is an excellent lens for closeup shots.:)

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_2758_crb2.jpg

Ricardo222

8th of May 2011 (Sun), 04:09

QED ;)

viducce

10th of May 2011 (Tue), 02:10

Some street & wildlife from Taiwan. Handheld non IS...

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0079cr.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0080cr.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0081cr.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0083cr.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0061cr.jpg

http://i226.photobucket.com/albums/dd228/viducce/wadawatz/IMG_0066cr.jpg

silvrr

11th of May 2011 (Wed), 18:04

Picked up a copy of this lens last weekend. Got it out last sunday but it needed some micro adjustment. Got out last night and got these.

wide open
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2328/5711631936_47a0d3bedc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711631936/)
Red Winged Black Bird (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711631936/) by Adam.Mrugacz (http://www.flickr.com/people/adammrugacz/), on Flickr

Wide open with the Kenko 1.4xTC
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3037/5711632830_3f857902b8_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711632830/)
Prothonotary Warbler (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711632830/) by Adam.Mrugacz (http://www.flickr.com/people/adammrugacz/), on Flickr

Another wide open with the kenko
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2455/5711634020_1b3712c0d6_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711634020/)
White Crowned Sparrow (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5711634020/) by Adam.Mrugacz (http://www.flickr.com/people/adammrugacz/), on Flickr

Dillan_K

11th of May 2011 (Wed), 22:41

A Robin, captured yesterday in the park:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2674/5711948152_3c04bd200b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5711948152/)
The noble robin (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5711948152/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Dillan_K

12th of May 2011 (Thu), 20:38

The same bird, this time @ f/4.5:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2600/5714256291_e74d2734f0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5714256291/)
Robin 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5714256291/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Joe52

13th of May 2011 (Fri), 04:04

Very nice Dillan.

Joe52

13th of May 2011 (Fri), 04:15

Greenfinch:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_2773b2.jpg

Dragonfly, Four-Spotted chaser: with a 1.4 TC.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_2965_crb2.jpg

Ricardo222

13th of May 2011 (Fri), 06:07

Cicada

Dillan_K

13th of May 2011 (Fri), 19:14

Thank you, Joe! It's only a Robin, but for me, these two photos represent a bit of a milestone. I was close enough, and the light was nice enough for me to get some really good shots. The lens did not let me down. The second one is only 1/3 stop from wide open! The 300mm f/4L IS is capable of producing top drawer results. I am very proud of these shots (more than I should be), and extremely pleased with the lens.

Your shots look rather good too! Shooting birds takes more patience than I ever imagined. I am starting to understand what an accomplishment every really nice bird shot is. Your Greenfinch is flawless!

Ricardo, that's a great shot too! I really like the thistle (?) in the background. That's a nicely composed shot.

scubthebub

13th of May 2011 (Fri), 23:11

Rented one of these plus a 1.4x II two weeks ago for my wife's triathlon. Still trying to decide what I want to do on the long end for lenses. So far I have tried the new 70-200 II and this lens with the 100-400 still to be tried out. I really like the lens, but it would leave a pretty big gap in my FL that I'm not sure I'd like (getting rid of my 28-300). I will say what it does do, it does very well and didn't have any complaints.

Anyways less talk more photos. All with the 5Dc and some with the 1.4x (all the action shots).
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2675/5702823270_ce565f91cc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702823270/)
IMG_2162 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702823270/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5267/5702255235_f88bc0e28f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702255235/)
IMG_2164 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702255235/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5184/5702444775_0d4ffdded2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702444775/)
IMG_2345 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702444775/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3038/5702523225_fcfb7b6d97_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702523225/)
IMG_2436 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702523225/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3123/5703098904_92bd694453_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5703098904/)
IMG_2474 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5703098904/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3414/5703336988_fed0f525d1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5703336988/)
IMG_3536 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5703336988/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

Dillan_K

15th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:42

I should really get off my butt and take some more photos, but here is one more from last week's best series. This time, at f/4.5:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2724/5720895561_a3a0ffd189_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5720895561/)
Robin the third (http://www.flickr.com/photos/13931652@N00/5720895561/) by Dillan K (http://www.flickr.com/people/13931652@N00/), on Flickr

Joe52

19th of May 2011 (Thu), 17:19

60D 300mm f4 + Kenko 1.4 CT.

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v111/joe47/IMG_3390_crb2.jpg

mannix143

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 00:05

the more i see the more im lured to get this instead of the 70-200f4...

any difference in IQ with the IS and non-IS?

silvrr

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 12:02

One from yesterday:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2533/5740769508_94ab8f515c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5740769508/)
Magnolia Warbler (http://www.flickr.com/photos/adammrugacz/5740769508/) by Adam.Mrugacz (http://www.flickr.com/people/adammrugacz/), on Flickr

Dillan_K

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 12:47

Mannix, apparently there is a difference in IQ between the non-IS and the IS version. The non-IS is said to be sharper. Having said that, I believe IS is worth any difference in sharpness. I have not used the 300mm f/4L non-IS. My photos of the robin were sharpened in lightroom, but only lightly. 50 points on "Robin 2" and only 25 on the rest. It's a sharp lens, and the IS really helps. If you are considering the non-IS, I'd also put the 400mm f/5.6 on the list. I find the 300mm f/4L IS to be a very useful lens.

Of course, if the other option on the list is a 70-200 f/4L IS, that's an entirely different beast. If you need that focal length range, don't buy a 300mm! This lens is versatile, but probably not as versatile as a 70-200mm zoom. I do use it for portraits, but you need a bit of room.

mannix143

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 17:42

Thanks Dillan_K, i did have the 70-200 f4 non IS before, i noticed that i only shoot at mostly 200mm ang looking for more reach, i sold it and bought the 11-16, but i miss having a long telephoto. i would like to have the IS and found that 200 is a bit short for me, now looking here you guys all take gorgeous pictures, thats why im 80% leaning on getting this 300mm with IS, if i go with the non-IS, i might pair it always with a monopod. but then again, i can do that with the 400mm and a monopod. decisions decisions....

oh well, keep the pictures coming, i still have a week to decide. thanks :)

Ricardo222

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 17:55

the more i see the more im lured to get this instead of the 70-200f4...

any difference in IQ with the IS and non-IS?

Funny thing...I didn't even know there was a non IS 300 f4 still current. My normal reference for these things is "The Digital Picture" and he doesn't mention it. Obviously Dillan has seen one so they must be about, but it would surprise me to find that it was sharper than the IS version, purely because Canon tends to improve as it goes along. If the non IS is a later model then it may well be sharper, but I hadn't heard of it.

In my experience the 300 f4 IS is an exceptional lens. Just remember to turn off the IS if using it on a tripod as I don't believe it is tripod sensing, and longer focal lengths that aren't tend to lose their crispness if you don't turn the IS off.

Full moon rising...hand held at 1/125...IS working well.

mannix143

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:01

Ricardo222

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:07

NICE!!! love that moon rising over the hill.

i see a lot of non-IS on ebay, its like less than 1k. if i get a non-IS, i will be buying a monopod, and 12mm extension tube and a 1.4tc and ummm.... i think thats it. :)

There's obviously a lot of stuff around over there that we don't see! Regarding the extension tube...I totally recommend it for the 300 lens...I use one a lot and get some great long range macros!

mannix143

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:18

thanks Ricardo :) one last question before i hit the books and review.

can i use 1.4tc and an extension tube at the same time?

Ricardo222

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:26

thanks Ricardo :) one last question before i hit the books and review.

can i use 1.4tc and an extension tube at the same time?

I haven't tried it, but no doubt you can. The only problem is that TCs degrade the image, albeit slightly in their normal use, but at super magnification my guess is that the degradation would be magnified as well.

Give it a try and report back!:D

JayStar86

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:48

Funny thing...I didn't even know there was a non IS 300 f4 still current. My normal reference for these things is "The Digital Picture" and he doesn't mention it. Obviously Dillan has seen one so they must be about, but it would surprise me to find that it was sharper than the IS version, purely because Canon tends to improve as it goes along. If the non IS is a later model then it may well be sharper, but I hadn't heard of it.

In my experience the 300 f4 IS is an exceptional lens. Just remember to turn off the IS if using it on a tripod as I don't believe it is tripod sensing, and longer focal lengths that aren't tend to lose their crispness if you don't turn the IS off.

Full moon rising...hand held at 1/125...IS working well.

impressive shot. bw!

Some day I shall own this lens, lol. Too many other priorities right now.

mannix143

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 18:51

thanks, i dont have one yet, i have a week to decide if its 300 is or non-is(w/ monopod) then get the tc and tubes. :)

Ricardo222

21st of May 2011 (Sat), 20:35

impressive shot. bw!

Some day I shall own this lens, lol. Too many other priorities right now.

Thank you indeed!:)

Dillan_K

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 02:08

There isn't a non-IS version currently available from Canon, but you can still find them used. I haven't shot one, but the word on the street is that it is slightly sharper than the current IS version. I'm not losing sleep over it. I don't think it's worth pursuing a discontinued lens, personally. I'm very pleased with my current lens. I highly recommend it, if you can use the focal length.

Ricardo222

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 03:54

mannix143

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 21:14

meh_meli

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 22:45

The only problem I have heard with some other brands of TE is that the release lever is not recessed and if not careful.
Your lens ends up on the ground.
You can use whatever TE you want but if IQ is high on your list try Kenko or Canon.

Ricardo222

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 23:13

oh man, i cant wait to buy one. i love the shots you guys post! one more week.

but... i have a few more questions :)

extension tubes: any brand will do? and the one with AF will work?
extender: im only planning to get 1.4x. i see a another brand of kenko, teleplus i think, is that ok? or even the old canon 1st version would be good?

i read a review on amazon that someone used this with a tamron extender? will the AF work on something like that?

thanks again :) sorry for the questions, im still new with the stuff.

Ask as many questions as you like...that's what POTN is about. :cool:

I use Kenko tubes and a Canon 1.4 extender, but not at the same time. The Kenko tubes are fine and don't interfere with AF if I happen to be using it.

I can't answer your question about other makes of extender.

mannix143

22nd of May 2011 (Sun), 23:51

thanks meh_meli and ricardo. :) ill try to do some more research about this after my finals.

sinistergrins

23rd of May 2011 (Mon), 11:03

http://ezstreetphotography.smugmug.com/Photo-of-The-Day/2011/i-J6PHD5D/0/X2/252-X2.jpg

steve6690

23rd of May 2011 (Mon), 12:01

http://ezstreetphotography.smugmug.com/Photo-of-The-Day/2011/i-J6PHD5D/0/X2/252-X2.jpg

What a beautiful shot..

Mike55

23rd of May 2011 (Mon), 22:03

The quality of a prime with great framing/timing. Beautiful shot.

nikmar08

24th of May 2011 (Tue), 04:24

Fantastic shot!! Real "sinister" stuff sinistergrins!!

grandadraymond

24th of May 2011 (Tue), 12:28

I find this lens very sharp, but im not sure i can get used to having a fixed focal length, i havnt decided yet
http://www.raysimages.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Squirrel.jpg

http://www.raysimages.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Squirrel_.jpg

http://www.raysimages.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Oriental_Poppy_.jpg

http://www.raysimages.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Blackie.jpg

http://www.raysimages.co.uk/albums/userpics/10003/Piebald.jpg

scubthebub

24th of May 2011 (Tue), 15:37

I find this lens very sharp, but im not sure i can get used to having a fixed focal length, i havnt decided yet

I'm having the same issue on the long end, but I see you still have a 100-400.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2675/5702823270_ce565f91cc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702823270/)
IMG_2162 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702823270/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

http://farm6.static.flickr.com/5223/5702522013_e318d14b20_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702522013/)
IMG_2426 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/malh777/5702522013/) by malh777 (http://www.flickr.com/people/malh777/), on Flickr

mannix143

26th of May 2011 (Thu), 00:19

as much as i would like to get this 300mm IS, i got the 400mm instead, got a good deal from one of our members, i hope i can produce great pics like you guys post here and in the 400mm thread. :)

meh_meli

26th of May 2011 (Thu), 00:55

I'd like to add that one too but a UWA will have to come first.

mannix143

26th of May 2011 (Thu), 01:44

thats what i did, got the UWA then the 400mm(i might get the 300mm or 200mm if i have funds again), although im still learning with the UWA, the learning curve on the UWA is much steeper than i thought, plus just got the 50d which is a bit different coming from t2i. hopefully the weather would be good and i could go out and practice.

I'd like to add that one too but a UWA will have to come first.

raybond

27th of May 2011 (Fri), 11:32

So, I took a plunge, and bought this beauty. Cost me around 12 Mil Indonesian Rupiah, or equivilant to US$1400. So far, no regrets. :-)

Exposure 2 Seconds, F 4.0, ISO 100.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3376/5755804840_edf5841de5_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/raybond/5755804840/)
Monas (http://www.flickr.com/photos/raybond/5755804840/) by raybond2009 (http://www.flickr.com/people/raybond/), on Flickr

Cheers!

Racer997

27th of May 2011 (Fri), 16:15

http://racer997.smugmug.com/Other/CMRA-Hallett-May-2011-Samples/i-Z8jDrwc/0/XL/JR4B0458-2-XL.jpg

http://racer997.smugmug.com/Other/CMRA-Hallett-May-2011-Samples/i-LQRgdHS/0/XL/JR4B0414-XL.jpg

patrickf117

29th of May 2011 (Sun), 01:24

My first outing with this toy I bought this morning. These were shot handheld @ wide open.

rick_reno

29th of May 2011 (Sun), 02:35

My first outing with this toy I bought this morning. These were shot handheld @ wide open.

Very nice.

patrickf117

29th of May 2011 (Sun), 17:14

Bird in flight above my house :) My 2nd day outing with this toy and liking it so far... :cool:

jwicaksana

29th of May 2011 (Sun), 22:05

Dillan_K

29th of May 2011 (Sun), 22:29

Salamat datang, Raybond! I am a European Canadian married to an Indonesian. I've just about exhausted my Indonesian, though. :)

I hope you enjoy the 300mm f/4L IS!

kermit4u

30th of May 2011 (Mon), 06:12

it does well

(http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4141/4893243759_285a87edb8_b.jpg
hot_girl_gawking_guy by jowen_tk, on Flickr)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3504/3181302012_b0b20b0afc_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33199292@N04/3181302012/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/33199292@N04/3181302012/) by jowen_tk (http://www.flickr.com/people/33199292@N04/), on Flickr