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View Full Version : Your Opinion on a lens for Airshow Photography

JonnyA
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 11:27
I'd like your opinions on picking either a Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS USM or the 300MM f/4L IS USM. I will be picking up the 1.4 TC with either lens purchase. I attend the annual Airshow at Andrews Airforce Base in MD. and also the airshows in NJ. Would the 70-200MM be to short for taking photos of aircraft in flight? Thanks for your input.
LightRules
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 11:29
The 100-400IS would be best for this. Is this an option for you?
Janika
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 11:35
Johnny; I'd go with a 400-mm zoom lens, The best for this are the Canon EF 100-400 iS L or the Sigma 80-400 OS EX DC.
I was very frustrated on our airshow, back in June because I wanted to take pictures of the static display and the 100-400 just wasn't wide enough, so carry two bodies or keep switching lenses all day which I don't recomend on a windy, dusty airfield.
Next Summer I'll have two bodies with me, One with the 100-400 and the other with the WA-zoom for static display. For flying planes, you need at least 300-mm, however don't forger, they also come close at times, so you'll need the flexibility of a zoom lens!
Have fun on the show! ;)
angryhampster
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 11:35
I've seen very good results with a 70-200 and no TC. Since the aircraft are flying so low, you don't need that much reach really.
JonnyA
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 11:37
The 100-400 was my original first choice, but after reading reviews on that lens in FM website, my choices went to the 70-200mm and 300mm. With the 1.4 TC it would cover the 400 mm range. Cost is not a problem. My concern is reach. Also involved here is some indoor shots. My son participates in Karate tournaments and i know that the F/2.8 of the 70-200 fits in real nicely there. I'm just not sure that the 70-200 would be able to capture the planes in flight as nicely as a 300 (420 with the 1.4 TC).
malla1962
19th of October 2006 (Thu), 12:37
I think the 70-200 and 1.4 is a nice combo and think it will do a good job for you.:DHeres 2 taken with that combo.
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q9151.jpg
http://i18.photobucket.com/albums/b130/malla1962/MO2Q9328.jpg