Quick help on using EF 100-400

[BearLeeAlive]

I just recieved an almost new EF 100-400 for a good deal. It seems to be great and am going to give it a whirl this weekend. My problem, the seller forgot to include the manual with it, she had forgotten to take it out of her camera bag. She mailed it out last night but it will not get here in time for me leaving today.

The only help I really need is in the 2 IS modes. I relaize that this is first generation IS and I need to shut the IS off for tripod mounting, but what are the 2 modes of IS and how are they used. I know one is for panning but unsure which one it is and the circustance it is used under.

Thanks,

[EOS_JD]

Mode 1 for normal use, mode 2 for panning.

panning is holding the camera steady and using your body to turn while maintaining the same horizontal height (is that how to explain it?!)

At a car race the cars go whizzing by. You need to pan to keep the car in the viewfinder. this is panning.

[Az2Africa]

That's about it.

[mpoole]

A few more hints, from another owner.
Focus speed is much better if you set the distance switch to 3m to infinity, assuming you are shooting more distant targets.
At the long end, stop down from 5.6 it really helps
My version is sharper at 380mm than 400mm.
If and when possible, consider using mirror lock up when shooting longer than 300.
Long lenses do require a different technique because any motion at all is magnified.

Have fun, it is a great, flexible lens once you get used to it.

[BearLeeAlive]

Thanks, I thought Mode 2 was for panning but now I know for sure.