Canon EF 500mm f/4L IS USM

[CyberDyneSystems]

Since Mitch was kind enoguh to get the 600mm f/4L IS Image Archive thread going, I thought I'd take the opportunity to jump in with starting 500mm thread.

Here's a quick sampling of what I've got with this fine optic.

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=y8eauv&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=y8nfy4&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ycxq15&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ye5zqu&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yisrcn&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yhvpf5&outx=600&noresize=1

100% crop of above
http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yhvpf7&outx=600&noresize=1


I know there's a few 500mm owners out there, let's see some more.

[hooookup]

Here's a few from my 500 f/4L is

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/72059684-L.jpg

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/82528719-L.jpg

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/79965210-L.jpg

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/85238942-L.jpg

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/72055969-L.jpg

http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/68154611-L.jpg

http://www.smugmug.com/photos/61066303-L.jpg

Look at the corner of the setting sun for the "Green Flash"
http://jerodharris.smugmug.com/photos/68905807-L.jpg

[sando]

What's a 'green flash'?

Great pictures guys and good idea. :)

[hooookup]

Its kind of like the Aurora Borealis for those of us that are lower in the hemisphere

[mcminty]

Its kind of like the Aurora Borealis for those of us that are lower in the hemisphere
It doesn't really have anything to do with how an Aurora works. Here is the wiki page for this phenomenon - Green Flash (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Green_flash).

Awesome photos hooookup. I love the colour in the 3rd last one.



Andrew.

[Scottes]

All 100% crops, no processing, from the 500mm f/4. This lens is simply stunning.


Black-Capped Chickadee

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/IMG_64549crop.jpg

House Finch

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/IMG_64526crop.jpg

Brown-Headed Cowbird, the first I've ever seen on my feeders. He went straight for the food, bypassing my branches and a chance for a natural shot, and he didn't stay long at all.

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/IMG_64555crop.jpg

Chipping Sparrow

http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/IMG_64504crop.jpg

House Sparrow
http://www.itsanadventure.com/postimages/IMG_64560crop.jpg

[highlandpiper]

All of these shots are simply stunning but the Cedar Waxwing is incredable. Boy do I want this lens....

[hTr]

http://i153.photobucket.com/albums/s212/hTr_02/legscratch.jpg

Here is from a 500mm f4 with 1.4TC at over 65 yards

[lensmen]

I am green with envy now....over the photos and that white L bazooka used......

soon....

[Poindexter]

Can't wait to add to this thread!

[blonde]

alright, time to add some images to this thread:

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147697860-L.jpg

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147661048-L.jpg

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147914242-L.jpg

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147914323-L.jpg

[naryab]

Congrats, these look great!! I hope you are having fun with the lens. There is something about #2 I love... and the fox shots are a great catch.

[jacobsen1]

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147661048-L.jpg


awesome.

[fs454]

Holy crap.

These shots are awesome. All of them.

[TMR Design]

WOW!!!! Simply amazing shots. That's one incredible lens.

[Bob_A]

WOW!!!! Simply amazing shots. That's one incredible lens.

Used by some very talented photogs ...

[TMR Design]

Used by some very talented photogs ...


No doubt about that. A lens like that in the hands of an incompetent would be useless.

[liquidstone]

Some shots from this medium range birding lens...;)

http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/59721148.jpg



The following are with the 1DM2 + 500 f4 + Canon 1.4x

http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/77479858.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/75269571.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/76713639.jpg


And lastly, 20D + 500 f4 IS, hand held, 1/200 sec, f/4, ISO 800
http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/58779200/original.jpg


A moonshot with a 20D + 2x TC:
http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/69854868/original


The 500 f4 is a decent lens for the price....:mrgreen:

Romy

[MDJAK]

No doubt about that. A lens like that in the hands of an incompetent would be useless.

Why do you guys have to talk about me like that?:cry: ;)

Those shots are amazing. Now that I've finally gotten the 300, can the 500 be far off? I hope not.

mark

[George Chew]

Greetings,
Purple heron in flight.

1/2000s @ f6.3. +1.4x TC.
http://i51.photobucket.com/albums/f367/gckw8833/Animals/_MG_9150.jpg

[George Chew]

Greetings,
My neighbour's dog portrait. This lens is incredible. Enjoy...

5D, EF500mm F4L IS. 1/40s @ f5.6, -2/3 stops, ISO200, monopod.

[TMR Design]

Hello George,

Beautiful image. :D

I have a question for you about depth of field, at that distance, with a long lens like that. I see in the image info that you shot at f/5.6. I also see that the depth of field, although not shallow, does not have the back end of the dog in focus. SO my question is this:

What aperture would you have had to shoot at to have the whole pooch in focus? If it was 1, or perhaps 2 full stops more and the shutter speed was then 2 stops slower, would you still have been able to capture the same image quality? Even if a dog is standing fairly still there is still some movement and your shutter speed would be preety darn slow (~1/10s - 1/20s).

Just curious.

[George Chew]

Hello George,

Beautiful image. :D

I have a question for you about depth of field, at that distance, with a long lens like that. I see in the image info that you shot at f/5.6. I also see that the depth of field, although not shallow, does not have the back end of the dog in focus. SO my question is this:

What aperture would you have had to shoot at to have the whole pooch in focus? If it was 1, or perhaps 2 full stops more and the shutter speed was then 2 stops slower, would you still have been able to capture the same image quality? Even if a dog is standing fairly still there is still some movement and your shutter speed would be preety darn slow (~1/10s - 1/20s).

Just curious.
Greetings,
From the distance and lighting condition I was taking, I think I need at least f11 to get the back of the dog in focus too. That will be 2 stops slower in shutter speed, about 1/5s. I think I'll struggle to keep the image tack sharp unless on tripod, and the dog is really still. Enjoy...

[ZeroFiveOne]

Wow! Beautiful shots from all.


A moonshot with a 20D + 2x TC:
http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/ima...54868/original (http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/69854868/original)


The 500 f4 is a decent lens for the price....:mrgreen:

Romy

Romy, that moon shot is simply amazing:)

[Ockie]

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147914242-L.jpg

http://blonde.smugmug.com/photos/147914323-L.jpg

:eek: those two shots are amazing...
:shock:

[gymell]

Late to the party(as usual) but I'll add a few I took this past February with a rented 500mm (shout out to lensrentals.com). Will be buying my own in the very near future, hopefully next couple of weeks!

http://www.pbase.com/gymell/image/73975042/original.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/gymell/image/73975051/original.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/gymell/image/74270559/original.jpg

[KaplanMultimedia]

Oh man... you guys are killing me with these incredible shots. :cry:

I've had this lens on my wish list for quite awhile. Viewing these wonderful pictures are making the buy date get a little closer with each image.

[notch]

New here so i hope you don't mind me adding a couple?

1/500 @f5.6 ISO 100
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2/lyndon1965/730622196_26d788c20a_o.jpg


1/500 @f5.6 ISO 100
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2/lyndon1965/623933724_3832814296_o.jpg


1/500 @f8 ISO 250 + 1.4 TC

http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2/lyndon1965/561108279_ac075c0d6a_o.jpg

[George Chew]

Greetings,
Great examples of the usages of this cannon. Enjoy...

[markimage]

Stunning shots. What is the best price for one of these babies in the USA?

[gymell]

Stunning shots. What is the best price for one of these babies in the USA?

I got mine for $5400 from Allen's Camera. They don't have an online store though, you have to call them.

[busterboy]

500mm F.4L IS on the 1DsMkII..;)

http://www.zen118613.zen.co.uk/birds/dunnock&kites/dunnock.jpg

http://www.zen118613.zen.co.uk/birds/heron/heron=1.jpg

[blonde]

wow Tim, the first one is fantastic!!!

looks like it is time to add a bit more to the archive in case people need more convincing (i don't see why though)

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/185132206-L.jpg

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/177863722-L.jpg

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/178036793-L.jpg

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/190941702-L.jpg

[red hot sheep]

Wow wow wow - breathtaking captures blonde - especially the second. You are putting the 500mm to very good use!

[cwphoto]

EOS-1D Mark II N, 500/4 IS, ISO 100, 1/1,600s @ f/4.5:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=16127&stc=1&d=1160226249

EOS-1D Mark II N, 500/4 IS, ISO 400, 1/1,000s @ f/4.5:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=16192&stc=1&d=1160322140

EOS-1D Mark III, 500/4 IS, ISO 100, 1/13s @ f/11:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=27731&stc=1&d=1187510823

EOS-1D Mark III, 500/4 IS, ISO 200, 1/80s @ f4:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=27735&stc=1&d=1187515217

[markimage]

Nice shots CW

[SaSi]

A picture of a cheetah at the zoo through a barbed wire fence.

Canon 350D, 1/350 f/4 ISO 100

[SaSi]

And the customary duck shot
350D, 1/1000 f/4 ISO 100

[TMR Design]

A picture of a cheetah at the zoo through a barbed wire fence.

Canon 350D, 1/350 f/4 ISO 100

That is a very cool shot!

[moorel]

All taken with 1D Mark III + 500mm f/4 L IS USM

Only Unsharp Mask, Levels and Curves. No crop.

http://pkhamre.com/500mm/gb1.jpg

http://pkhamre.com/500mm/gb2.jpg

http://pkhamre.com/500mm/gb3.jpg

http://pkhamre.com/500mm/gb4.jpg

http://pkhamre.com/500mm/gb5.jpg

[cwphoto]

EOS-1D Mark III, 500/4 IS, ISO 200, 1/400s @ f/4:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=29555&stc=1&d=1191776312

EOS-1D Mark III, 500/4 IS, ISO 100, 1/100s @ f/5.6:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=29543&stc=1&d=1191773740

[tommykjensen]

Well I actually don't own this lens but in Africa I got to try Jake's lens on 2 game drives.


http://photo.klein-jensen.dk/photo2.php?n=20070902_lionportrait1.jpg

[CyberDyneSystems]

Hah! I'll add a few too Tommy, we must have found this bump the same time :)
Some Africa shots, with the 500mm and the 1D MkIII;

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yozk3a&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yq3okq&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yozk37&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yowffz&outx=600&noresize=1

This ones not the best, but it was in harsh light with the 2X, on a high contrast subject in motion,. I thought it was pretty amazing showing for the conditions
http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yozk3b&outx=600&noresize=1

[CyberDyneSystems]

Some more local subjects (New England)

A baby Piping Plover;

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ypw0vy&outx=600&noresize=1


A Piper @ 400 ISO on MkIII no NR applied
http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yo3j2b&outx=600&noresize=1

[busterboy]

Stunning shots CDS and Tommy.. Simply stunning..:D

[lance v]

http://www.pbase.com/liquidstone/image/58779200/original.jpg



http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2/lyndon1965/730622196_26d788c20a_o.jpg


1/500 @f5.6 ISO 100
http://i76.photobucket.com/albums/j2/lyndon1965/623933724_3832814296_o.jpg




http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/177863722-L.jpg

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/178036793-L.jpg

http://sgphoto.smugmug.com/photos/190941702-L.jpg

OMG! with pictures as amazing as these who wouldnt want this lens!!!!
infact if i had a spare 11 grand i would go buy 1 RIGHT NOW!

brilliant every1

[comb]

Some shots from Cable SKi360 Championship 2008
Canon EOS 1D Mark III, 500f4 IS

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/kamsanib/SKI%20360/14.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/kamsanib/SKI%20360/13.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v653/kamsanib/SKI%20360/12.jpg

[Zebceponaf]

Wow. These shots are all excellent. I've always wondered though why people get this over the 600 though?

[tommykjensen]

Wow. These shots are all excellent. I've always wondered though why people get this over the 600 though?

I belive it is the weight. I have never held the 600 but tried the 500 and it is actually possible to handheld the 500.

[Adamora]

These pictures are stunning :D, Keep them coming ^^

[gymell]

Wow. These shots are all excellent. I've always wondered though why people get this over the 600 though?

Price and weight are the main considerations. The 500 is big enough to deal with, but the 600 is much more difficult to travel with and carry around. For example, you can carry a 500 on a plane, but I'm not aware of any regulation size carry on bags that the 600 could fit in. Good article discussing the topic at: http://www.luminous-landscape.com/reviews/lenses/500vs600.shtml .

And now for a picture, just to keep on topic. :cool:
http://www.pbase.com/gymell/image/91719112/original.jpg

[Bubble]

http://www.vietnamet.com/photos/sdpark/8.jpg

http://www.vietnamet.com/photos/sdpark/12.jpg

[George Chew]

Greetings,
White-chester laughingthrush. Enjoy...

[lance v]

Man these pictures are amazing! and come August 14th LOOK OUT BECAUSE MINE ARIVES:D:D:D:D

[GyRob]

My most used lens is the 500f4isL :) Acouple of my fav's here.
Rob.

[busterboy]

500mm on the 30D.:)

http://www.zen118613.zen.co.uk/birds/goldfinch=1.jpg

[GyRob]

A couple of my other love Jets :) 1.4tc used on the typhoon climing shot.
Rob.

[malla1962]

500mm on the 30D.:)

http://www.zen118613.zen.co.uk/birds/goldfinch=1.jpg30D Tim? not got that 1dsmk3 yet mate.

[busterboy]

30D Tim? not got that 1dsmk3 yet mate.

Opted for the 1DMkIII instead malla.:)

Just arrived last Satuday.:D

Really couldnt justify the price tag on the 1DsMkIII to be honest although that was my plan.:oops:

[malla1962]

Opted for the 1DMkIII instead malla.:)

Just arrived last Satuday.:D

Really couldnt justify the price tag on the 1DsMkIII to be honest although that was my plan.:oops: Good luck with it Tim My 1dmk2 shutter has just started to fail:evil: thank god I have got your old 1dsmk2 to keep me going till I get it back from CPS. If a MK3N comes out I may give that a look.
1DSMK2 and EF500.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/VY8X1332.jpg

[condyk]

How did you get that Magpie shot Rob?

[George Chew]

My most used lens is the 500f4isL :) Acouple of my fav's here.
Rob.
Greetings,
I prefer these birds to the iron birds. Great shot and timing you have here. The 2nd shot very good. Enjoy...

[GyRob]

How did you get that Magpie shot Rob?
i was at the top of a mud bank and it had being forageing to my left i had my VF on it then as it jumped and flew down i was able to stay with it and get the shot as it spread its wings to land at the bottom some 35ft away .
Rob.

[Alan B]

1D MKIII + EF500 f/4 IS L

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=y6ow43&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=y6ow4f&outx=600&noresize=1&original=1&nostamp=1

[Hawkman]

Here are some 100% crops from my 500/4L (some USM applied). More at this link: http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/500f4_sampler

1D MArk IIN f4:

http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/99902731/original.jpg

1D MArk IIN f6.3:

http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/86657892/original.jpg

1D Mark IIN + EF 1.4x II (700mm) f8

http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/93633053/original.jpg

1D Mark IIN + EF 1.4x II (700mm) f8

http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/99902734/original.jpg

[Hawkman]

!00% crops with 68mm kenko extension tubes on a 10D at f8. Some USM applied:

http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/55517733/original.jpg


http://www.pbase.com/gaocus/image/55517734/original.jpg

[CyberDyneSystems]

Here's a few that illustrate that this large lens is still nimble enough for fast fast FAST action!
Not the IQ we've been seeing, I still have trouble getting both ;)

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=yhvmns&outx=600&noresize=1

http://images.fotopic.net/?iid=ynzwwd&outx=600&noresize=1

[George Chew]

Greetings,
Still amazes by the resolving power of this cannon. Enjoy...

5D, 500mm F4L IS + 1.4x TC, USM Amt=80%, r=0.5 pixel, Th=0 level

[MaDProFF]

I finally went for it, and like the 85L my first comment has to be the resolving power of this lens has to be seen to be believed, you take a photo, you zoom in to 100% and then 200% and 300%, it is quite remarkable at the detail kept, and lack of artifacting, Explains why these type of lenses cost so much money.

Just 2 shots, nothing special as I just wanted to use it, Hand held 2nd is a 100%

[WGG9]

I am on a quick little get away with my wife in Achorage Alaska. Walking down the trail at Bird Creek, I saw this older gentleman carrying this lens on a tripod back up to the parking lot. This lens is huge. We briefly talked. I hope he subscribes to this forum and posts some shots here.

[Scuff]

These Karts change direction like a house fly!!!!

1DmkIII, 500f4Lis. 1/2000@f4. 200 asa.

291841

[lance v]

Got my copy this morning :D:D

Some testers before the rain came down :(
cant wait to get out again for some shots but rain forcast for the next week.....


1
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3159/2762061964_87001e930c_o.jpg
2 -100% crop
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3082/2761214259_ea941d2173_o.jpg
3
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3089/2762060332_b2d8e1161e_o.jpg
4- 100% Crop
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3152/2762061416_1671fa404f_o.jpg

[CyberDyneSystems]

Wow, gorgeous shots of a wonderful little bird!

[Goshawk]

This lens is also superb for lovely outdoor portraits. This is wide open(f/4) on a 1Ds Mk II

[lance v]

Wow, gorgeous shots of a wonderful little bird!

Thanks Cyber:D

[stifler]

Taken with a recently acquired lens I purchased from a forum member still have some learning to do with this super lens.


1dmk3 @ F6.3 1/250 iso 200 +1.4tc
307330

1dmk3 @ F8 1/500 iso 400 +1.4tc
307331

[busterboy]

Well that forum member sold you an excellent lens stifler..:D

These shots are fantastic and I'm still waiting for my first Kingfisher..;)

[stifler]

thanks tim i have quite a few to sort out will post more on bird forum.

[busterboy]

Look forward to seeing those Ken.:)

[gymell]

Nice job with your new lens!

[markimage]

Superb Ken!

[NickR]

Picked up a second hand 500 last weekend, I'm well please so far especially with 2.0x.
@1000mm 2.0x
http://nickrailton.co.uk/img/v3/p272445153-4.jpg
@1000mm 2.0x
http://nickrailton.co.uk/img/v4/p1002659613-4.jpg
@500mm 1/125th
http://nickrailton.co.uk/img/v4/p275545879-4.jpg

[andrewhuxman]

Two of my shots with this top notch piece of glass.
http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t47/ahuxman58/IMG_3099.jpg

http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t47/ahuxman58/IMG_5609.jpg

[blonde]

alright, time to add a few more to this gallery so we can keep it alive :)

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/385382720_Mmz9p-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/385388969_7rcC8-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/385389069_jNf9A-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/375900644_3cQHp-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/232942899_mfXPB-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/385379125_nozXY-L.jpg

http://www.snirgolan.com/photos/385379589_dBBpX-L.jpg

[markimage]

Blonde......absolute stunners!

[Adamora]

number 5 is cute!

[wtaccord]

Ugh... you guys are killing me!!! I just got a 300 f/2.8L IS in the mail. Havn't even used it yet and I see this thread with these amazing shots. Now I want a 500 f/4L IS!!! hahaha

[MarkEvan]

1DS2 500f4

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3234/2700361819_29fb15ac9f_o.jpg


http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3163/2700361569_34552ff688_o.jpg



Wish i`d had a better sky with that last but never mind.

[gymell]

Be-yoo-tiful shots!!

[funhouse69]

Hey every one... I am amazed at the images here. I'm am considering pulling the trigger on one of these in the next few weeks.

Any suggestions on the best place / price for one?

[gymell]

Hey every one... I am amazed at the images here. I'm am considering pulling the trigger on one of these in the next few weeks.

Any suggestions on the best place / price for one?

I bought mine last year from Allen's Camera (http://www.allenscamera.com) in PA. They don't have an online store, so you have to call. At the time, everyone else was out of stock. And it turned out, they were $100 cheaper than B&H!

[RikWriter]

My first wildlife shots with my new (to me) 500:

http://www.pbase.com/image/104687438.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/104687440.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/104687441.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/104687442.jpg

[silverwolf]

Hey Rik!! Congratz on the purchase of your 500 f4L. Question why did you get rid of your 300 2.8? im just wondering. Nice first shot's by the way enjoy the lens.;)

[RikWriter]

Hey Rik!! Congratz on the purchase of your 500 f4L. Question why did you get rid of your 300 2.8? im just wondering. Nice first shot's by the way enjoy the lens.;)

I just decided that I wouldn't be using it very much with the 500 around.

[b.d.bop]

Folks, I'm having a dickens of a time with the hood on my EF500/4L. Very difficult to get it on and off my lens. That mechanical lock mechanism is finicky and doesn't always retract quite enough without my fiddling with it for a long time.

Any suggestions? Maybe I'm missing something? :confused:

[cadams]

I notice on mine that you sometimes have to screw it down more than you may think. It is sticky sometimes but if you nudge it a little you can tell when it is fully on or not. This is the same getting it off. I sometimes tap the end gently to loosen the hood when the screw is all the way out. The hood does wedge itself in there a little and that is normal.

[b.d.bop]

I notice on mine that you sometimes have to screw it down more than you may think. It is sticky sometimes but if you nudge it a little you can tell when it is fully on or not. This is the same getting it off. I sometimes tap the end gently to loosen the hood when the screw is all the way out. The hood does wedge itself in there a little and that is normal.

Thanks, cadams. It's getting it off (whether it's reversed or on normally) that's the problem for me - I can't always get the tongue to retract enough. Wonder if mine's defective.

[cadams]

If it's in warranty I might contact Canon. If you wait till it's out of warranty that bugger is expensive. I want to say they are close to $600 now to replace through B&H.

[b.d.bop]

If it's in warranty I might contact Canon. If you wait till it's out of warranty that bugger is expensive. I want to say they are close to $600 now to replace through B&H.

Thanks again, cadams. It's going back to Canon tomorrow (the hood, that is). They initially wanted me to send the whole lens back! We worked that out. ;)

[andrewhuxman]

Couple shots from my latest outing in Jacksonville FL.
40D-500MM
1/320th
F 11
ISO 160
TV Mode
Center Weighted
AI Servo
http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t47/ahuxman58/IMG_0387.jpg

40D-500MM
1/5000th
F 6.3
ISO 640 (surprised me)
AV Mode
Evaluative
AI Servo
http://i157.photobucket.com/albums/t47/ahuxman58/IMG_0093_1.jpg

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

Thanks, cadams. It's getting it off (whether it's reversed or on normally) that's the problem for me - I can't always get the tongue to retract enough. Wonder if mine's defective.

I got the chance to "play" with the EF 500mm f4L I.S. lens at a camera store today, and the salesperson had a hard time getting the hood off also.

What they found out worked best was to have the thumb screw device hanging down. So when you unscrew it, the little flange/tongue inside is able to slide down as far as it can, without creeping back up, and jamming against the rim of the lens.

That might be worth a shot.

[b.d.bop]

I got the chance to "play" with the EF 500mm f4L I.S. lens at a camera store today, and the salesperson had a hard time getting the hood off also.

What they found out worked best was to have the thumb screw device hanging down. So when you unscrew it, the little flange/tongue inside is able to slide down as far as it can, without creeping back up, and jamming against the rim of the lens.

That might be worth a shot.

I sent my hood to Canon this week for them to repair or replace that mechanical tongue piece. Initilly Canon wanted me to send the whole lens!! I managed to convinced them that wasn't really a brilliant idea.

For the price of this lens, and considering a replacement hood is something like $600 (!!), you'd think their design engineers might have come up with something a bit better.

Your positional solution sounds good, but gravity shouldn't be an issue here. The thing looks like it needs a spring in the latch design.

Thanks, Canonswhitelensesrule.

[andrewhuxman]

I leave mine on almost all of the time and use a xxl lens coat hoodie over it so I dont worry about taking it on and off, but yes its a little sticky or whatever you want to call it but it tightens down and thats what counts. unless you like playing with it taking it on and off all the time.

[cadams]

I leave mine on almost all of the time and use a xxl lens coat hoodie over it so I dont worry about taking it on and off, but yes its a little sticky or whatever you want to call it but it tightens down and thats what counts. unless you like playing with it taking it on and off all the time.

I take it on and off each time, which is no fun for sure, but a gently tap is all it takes to loosen the hood. This thing is pretty strong so I wouldnt worry about breaking it.

Someday I will buy a case that can fit it with the hood in shooting position and then I wont have to bother with it.

[b.d.bop]

I leave mine on almost all of the time and use a xxl lens coat hoodie over it so I dont worry about taking it on and off, but yes its a little sticky or whatever you want to call it but it tightens down and thats what counts. unless you like playing with it taking it on and off all the time.
Yes, that would definitely solve the problem, but for me it would interfere with its portability. I just feel that a hood for a lens this expensive should be an easy on/off proposition. It's a simple design thing.

[andrewhuxman]

I just feel that a hood for a lens this expensive should be an easy on/off proposition. It's a simple design thing.

Oh I agree totally. You would think that that would be a no brainer. lol

[funhouse69]

Hey everyone I finally bit the bullet and ordered my copy last night from J&R. I think I got a good deal on it and took advantage of 7% the Live Cash back. I should have it tomorrow or the next day.

To say that I am excited is an understatement, of course I now have to start looking in to the accessories I need for it.

[b.d.bop]

So I sent the hood to Canon (PA to California and back) and had the thing back in my hands in under a week, with the mechanism TOTALLY replaced with another that works smoothly!

GREAT SERVICE CANON! bw!

[funhouse69]

As luck would have it I got mine this afternoon 5 minutes before I had to leave for work.

I got as far as taking the Canon box out of the larger box that the company I bought it from put it in. Talk about torture :-(

Total price paid $5394 after Live Rebate which I believe is a pretty good deal???

[b.d.bop]

As luck would have it I got mine this afternoon 5 minutes before I had to leave for work.

I got as far as taking the Canon box out of the larger box that the company I bought it from put it in. Talk about torture :-(

Total price paid $5394 after Live Rebate which I believe is a pretty good deal???That's a FABULOUS price!

Oh, man, that is torture! You never even got a fingerprint on the thing. Just think what it'll be like when you get home, though. You'll probably sleep with it! :lol:

Congratulations!!!

[funhouse69]

Here's the unavailing of the new addition :-)

Now I am going to ask for advice from everyone on accessories for my new baby. As mentioned in my signature I have the Manfrotto 055X Pro Tripod with the 486RC2 head. This doesn't seem like enough for this size lens but load wise it says it should be fine ??? I don't know if I want to go all the way up to a Gimbal Type but might end up there eventually.

Also I see a lot of people have the protective covers on their lenses. Is this a no brainer accessory? Do these also come with lens covers / caps?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421479975_uxUXy-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480069_u7ATc-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480490_abReq-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480706_5J9fZ-M.jpg

[airbutchie]

WOOF!!! Congrats on the new glass!!!

- airbutchie :)

[b.d.bop]

Here's the unavailing of the new addition :-)

Now I am going to ask for advice from everyone on accessories for my new baby. As mentioned in my signature I have the Manfrotto 055X Pro Tripod with the 486RC2 head. This doesn't seem like enough for this size lens but load wise it says it should be fine ??? I don't know if I want to go all the way up to a Gimbal Type but might end up there eventually.

Also I see a lot of people have the protective covers on their lenses. Is this a no brainer accessory? Do these also come with lens covers / caps?

Any advice would be greatly appreciated.



A truly religious moment, funhouse! :D

Here are some goodies I recommend once your wallet is fully convalesced again:

Canon drop-in circular polarizing filter
Kinesis L511 long lens case
Lens cap: this (http://www.accentondesigninvestments.com/) oneEnjoy!

[funhouse69]

Ok here's my very first pic with my new baby :-)

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421998246_2aUcZ-L.jpg

[lance v]

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421479975_uxUXy-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480069_u7ATc-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480490_abReq-M.jpg
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/421480706_5J9fZ-M.jpg

Those pics take me back....

[funhouse69]

Unless I'm missing something the pics with my new baby are no where near in focus :-(

Even the moon pic from last night was even soft compared to shots I've taken with my 70-300mm IS. And that was on a Tripod, Mirror Lockup with a remote.

I took a few more test shots today and they are not in focus, I was expecting tack sharp from this guy and I know that is what I should be seeing.

Anyone have any thoughts?

[gymell]

Congrats on your new lens! Here's my list of must-have accessories:
Zeck lens cap (http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=284)
Lens coat (http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=294)
Kirk lens plate LP-53 (http://www.kirkphoto.com/newlensplate4.html) (replacing Canon foot)
Lowepro Lens Trekker AW II (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/586037-REG/Lowepro_LP35297_PEU_Lens_Trekker_600_II.html)
Sturdy tripod such as a Gizto 3530 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/568743-REG/Gitzo_GT3530LS_GT3530LS_Long_Systematic_6X.html)
Good ball head such as the Kirk BH-1 (http://www.kirkphoto.com/ballheads.html)Other nice to haves:
Full Wimberley head (http://www.tripodhead.com/products/wimberley-main.cfm). The Sidekick will also work, but the full head is so much better!
Sturdy monopod (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/569172-REG/Gitzo_GM5541_GM5541_6X_Carbon_Fiber.html)
RRS high capacity monopod head (http://reallyrightstuff.com/tripods/04.html)

[Poindexter]

Congrats on your new lens! Here's my list of must-have accessories:
Zeck lens cap (http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=284)

That is a great idea! The Canon "lens cap" is quite awkward and I've always been nervous about using my Optech cover with the hood reversed.

[b.d.bop]

That is a great idea! The Canon "lens cap" is quite awkward and I've always been nervous about using my Optech cover with the hood reversed.And it works beautifully!

[funhouse69]

Ok after a little more testing it looks like my new baby is working ok. Not really sure what the deal was with my moon attempts as I've gotten some spectacular results with much less of a lens. I will certainly give it another shot in the near future.

Here's one I took a few minutes ago, he was all I could find in my back yard :-)
Shot out of my 2nd floor window with the lens resting on a pillow and is a 100% Crop.
http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/423735350_y6EeY-XL.jpg

[funhouse69]

It will take a while to get all of these must have accessories. So far I've managed to order the first two :-)

Thanks for all of the advice.


Congrats on your new lens! Here's my list of must-have accessories:
Zeck lens cap (http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=284)
Lens coat (http://www.naturescapes.net/store/product.php?productid=294)
Kirk lens plate LP-53 (http://www.kirkphoto.com/newlensplate4.html) (replacing Canon foot)
Lowepro Lens Trekker AW II (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/586037-REG/Lowepro_LP35297_PEU_Lens_Trekker_600_II.html)
Sturdy tripod such as a Gizto 3530 (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/568743-REG/Gitzo_GT3530LS_GT3530LS_Long_Systematic_6X.html)
Good ball head such as the Kirk BH-1 (http://www.kirkphoto.com/ballheads.html)Other nice to haves:
Full Wimberley head (http://www.tripodhead.com/products/wimberley-main.cfm). The Sidekick will also work, but the full head is so much better!
Sturdy monopod (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/c/product/569172-REG/Gitzo_GM5541_GM5541_6X_Carbon_Fiber.html)
RRS high capacity monopod head (http://reallyrightstuff.com/tripods/04.html)

[gymell]

Oh don't forget, after you get the Wimberley head, you'll need a flash bracket, just because it looks cool ;)

[Humphrey]

1DMKIII 500 f4 plus X2 convertor

[gymell]

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention a must have is the 1.4x TC, and the 2x works pretty well too!

[funhouse69]

I have a Kenko 1.4, will this work with this lens with good results or should I get the Canon 2x?

Oh yeah, I forgot to mention a must have is the 1.4x TC, and the 2x works pretty well too!

[gymell]

I can't really speak to the Kenko TC because I have only used the Canon 1.4x, which 99% of the time is glued to my 500. I have used the 2x with pretty good results, but I don't use it nearly as often. It is nice to have for those occasions where you need a bit more reach. On your 40D and 30D you'll lose AF but that's not the end of the world. Even on my 1D III, I only have center point AF and it's slow at that. I tried stacking both to get 1400mm. You can see the results of that experiment in this thread. I'd say the 1.4x is a "must have" though.

[malla1962]

1DMK3 and 500f4.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/8R3Y6191.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/8R3Y6278.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/8R3Y6340.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/8R3Y6464.jpg

http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/8R3Y5963.jpg

[grphx]

I almost want to start saving up for this lens, instead of upgrading from my well used Rebel XT to a 50d

[UA935]

Wow, Wow and Wow is all I can say about the stunning images in this thread.

My 500 arrived on Monday but I have not had chance to shoot anything other than the window frames of a house down the road as yet. I could post a couple but I don't think anyone would get excited over window frames (or maybe they would!).

Hoping that the weather will be fine here in the UK tomorrow so I can get out and about and get some results for my £££.

I also have to say I wish my MK III's could have focused as well as the examples shown here, on a 40D at present as my MK3's could focus on a stationary turd.

Well here is a photo of my 500 if not from it, the wifes point and shoot compact in the height of the excitement following delivery so not the best but hey:-

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a278/UA935/500Noah.jpg

[stifler]

Congrats on the new lens, love the twins. :D

[Photomek]

Hrhr.:lol:

[UA935]

Finally got out with the 500 yesterday.

Stunning lens and worth every penny.

Someone said to me my first images are not a true test of the lens, I should have shot wide open in crap weather.

Ah well, I love it at F8 and don't shoot in crap weather:-

http://i13.photobucket.com/albums/a278/UA935/GEZBUBRS07122008.jpg

[cwphoto]

EOS 5D Mark II, 500/4 IS, 1.4x II, ISO 100, 1/125s @ f/5.6:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42456&stc=1&d=1228640928

[funhouse69]

I was going to get the 5D MK II but decided to get the 500L Instead :-)

[b.d.bop]

I was going to get the 5D MK II but decided to get the 500L Instead :-)
For the price of the 500/L you could have gotten two 5D Mk II's! You made the right choice. :)

[Humphrey]

Another couple using 1DMKIII 500 f4

[tommykjensen]

EOS 5D Mark II, 500/4 IS, 1.4x II, ISO 100, 1/125s @ f/5.6:
http://www.dcresource.com/forums/attachment.php?attachmentid=42456&stc=1&d=1228640928

And who said 5D/5D2 was not good for action shooting?

[cwphoto]

And who said 5D/5D2 was not good for action shooting?

Mostly people who either don't know what they're doing or judge a camera on specs alone, take your pick. :p

[TooManyShots]

First day with my Canon 500L. Weather wise, it is not even an OK day. Cloudy. Gloomy. Wet. raining ice. Cold. Shots were taking under ISO500. Wide open most of the time. 1/500s. On a monopod.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3131/3112845209_3ef46a6849_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3112845209/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3284/3113676794_c386b365b8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3113676794/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3181/3113677088_17cea28f01_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3113677088/)

Blue Jay at 90% crop.
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3137/3113677182_ecd9cfda39_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3113677182/)

[funhouse69]

I took the other night with my new baby :-)

http://funhouse69.smugmug.com/photos/435905902_M3o6q-XL.jpg

[TooManyShots]

Shots taken just before heading to work. Temperature was in the teens.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3094/3128708172_ac6eef2516_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3128708172/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3102/3128708414_20e4a302ef_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3128708414/)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3244/3128708304_e48a8021fd_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3128708304/)

[Palladium]

Great Shots above - exif shows 700mm focal length

[TooManyShots]

Thanks. 500L + 1.4x converter. Monopod. Fill flash. 25mph wind gust with -4 degree windchill. :)

Great Shots above - exif shows 700mm focal length

[FOX2PRO]

Wow, 25mph at max focal length, and they still look sharp. The IS must work beautifully.

[TooManyShots]

The shutter speed was fast enough. Is all about timing. :) Just fired a away when the wind got calmer.

Wow, 25mph at max focal length, and they still look sharp. The IS must work beautifully.

[RikWriter]

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/106467879.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/106518880.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/106517005.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/107306404.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/107313779.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/107306570.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/rikwriter/image/107386095.jpg

[gymell]

The eagle is nice - but that red-shouldered hawk is stunning!

[TooManyShots]

Does this lens need an archive???? :)

Red Belly Woodpecker
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3229/3153789243_0bec093354_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3153789243/)


Gold Finch on the wire
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3104/3154628360_b47bba2b25_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3154628360/)

Young Red Winged Black Bird
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3110/3154628132_a73c8d0966_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3154628132/)

A Freaking Cold Squirrel
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3147/3153914299_f6881940e4_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3153914299/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3212/3155107190_c36c8d4fbc_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3155107190/)

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3288/3154268961_398797020d_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vracing/3154268961/)

[lance v]

Has any1 every had any issues with flying with their 500?
Im off to South Africa in a few days and plan on taking it on as carry on luggage.

Cheers
lance

[stifler]

Taken recentley, 1dm3 1/160 F4.0 iso 640

http://i154.photobucket.com/albums/s256/kenb_2007/nut4.jpg