Tripod collar for 70-200f4 IS

[Littlefield]

If I have a BH-3 Kirk with L brackets this lens is not that heavy to need a collar is it ?
Thanks
Don

[SkipD]

While many people feel that they don't need a tripod collar, the rig would be better balanced with one. Thus, it could be more stable on a tripod.

Personally, I prefer to take the load off the camera's mount whenever possible.

[Tsmith]

I agree with Skip and have the Black Canon model.

[Toogy]

I personally don't believe the 70-200F4 needs a tripod collar. I had one when I had the lens and never used it. A 24-70 F2.8L actually weighs more than the 70-200F4 and almost as long when at the wide setting, and it doesn't need a tripod collar.

{edit} I just re-read the thread and noticed you said the 70-200 F4 IS, I have no experience with that lens, sorry!! {edit]

[Littlefield]

Thanks all ,If I get it I do not want to spend 85 .00 more for a while !
Regards
Don

[rklepper]

I have the 200 f/2.8, which is similar. By using the collar one thing that is avoided is that slump after setting the ballhead. If I attach the quick release to the camera it slumps slightly so I have to set it a little higher than I want it to end up. With the collar the balance keeps that from happening.

[TH!EN]

i really hate how canon made that an option? i mean that would make the cost of that lense cloer to the 2.8 IS which makes it anevern harder decision for canon fans.

[StealthLude]

I dont think you need one. it would be nice to have one, but not needed.

Lens should have come with one... I really like canon gear, but they really are cheap tards when it comes to things like tripod collars and lens hoods.

[R Hardman]

While many people feel that they don't need a tripod collar, the rig would be better balanced with one. Thus, it could be more stable on a tripod.

Personally, I prefer to take the load off the camera's mount whenever possible.

Ditto. Since it is balanced, the operation of the tripod is smoother and less prone to tipping forward. Also if you plan on piggy backing the camera + the 70-200 on a telescope the balance is a must to allow the scope to have smooth alignment and tracking.

[Lightstream]

Want the collar. Got the collar. Going to sign for it at the post office tomorrow (they missed me and it was a signature delivery).

I find it provides valuable support, letting the lens' weight rest on my palm, which usually covers the zoom ring. I would otherwise have to transfer the weight to the hand holding the camera, then zoom the lens. I can do it, it's just not as fast or as pleasant if I don't have to move the weight around.

I do this to my other big and heavy tele's, including a Sigma 70-200, Canon 100-400 and 300/4 ISL (zoom ring comment doesn't apply to 300)..

[Tsmith]

and works a lot better with the collar when using a mono pod.

[Littlefield]

Thanks for all answers.
Appreciate it Bluedog,
If you were to get an extender for it what would you get ? I guess you could make it 280mm.
What does taping the pins mean?
I see you have RSP too .I will keep XT for it .It was the best and I think Adobe screwed us but they made the founders of Pixmantec rich I cannot blame them !
Regards
Don

[Tsmith]

Don If I was going to purchase one I'd probably go with the Canon 1.4x but have seen very good results with the third party one also.

I've heard of taping the pins but right off can't recall the purpose.

If you were one the ones that bought RSP prior to the Adobe buyout you'll be eligible for a Free copy of Adobe Lightroom when the final version is released.

Offer a free download version of Lightroom 1.0 for customers who bought RawShooter | premium prior to July 12th 2006, 12 noon European Standard Time.

[Littlefield]

Yea I had RSP before Jan so I get the new free .They still have the forum running
http://www.pixmantec.com/forums/ubbthreads.php?Cat=0 which talks about it ,did not know if you had looked at it.
I still like RSP better ! I found out taping was this thought you might want to read it : from a guy at FM


An XT with 70-200/4 + 1.4x will still AF using the center point...w/o taping pins. See my earlier comment about 1-series AF to f/8, other bodies AF to f/5.6, so you're OK.

Taping the pins/contacts makes the camera blind to the TC being on the lens...so the camera's programming allows AF to function at apertures where AF will typically become erratic. Sure, AF will attempt to work...but there's no telling if it will work correctly, or even achieve focus.

Thanks Bluedog
Don

[Littlefield]

A guy at B& H said if you do not use a tripod collar with XT and 70-200 f4 L IS you can cause stress on the camera and get error message .
So I now have to spend $85 for black collar and additional $55 from Kirk to get quick release plate ?
What have y'all heard about stressing the camera and getting communication error message from not using collar ?
Thanks
Don

[R Hardman]

I have a 70-200f4 (not IS) and walk around with the lens all the time attached to the camera. Never had a problem. I will not attach it to a tripod with out the collar though.

[Littlefield]

Thanks R hardman .Yea I think I will not use it on a tripod without collar .
O well another $ 85 + $ 55 for Kirk release
Don