Telephoto lens pondering

[PekkaM]

I'm thinking of buying a telephoto lens for my 300D. Currently I'm torn between lower priced L-alternatives f/2.8 200 and f/4 70-200 that are priced respectively at 689€ and 664€.

Currently I have Sigma EX 17-35 and I'm waiting on my order of Canon f/1.4 50.

I'm bit doubtful whether 200mm would be enough for my needs in the long run so 200 prime at f/2.8 would give me option to use 2x converter with it. On the other hand that would leave 50-200 gap entirely uncovered.

Next step would obviously be the huge 100-400 at 1449€ but at the same price I could get f/2.8 200, 2x converter and 28-135 IS plus a filter or two.

Any suggestions or things I should consider?

[manncer]

:shock: 8) :lol:

I found out 200mm is inadequate for a lot of pictures. I have a Tamron 200-400 zoom and a 28-300. I wish I could afford a longer lense. It depends on what you are going to use it for?

manncer

[PekkaM]

Well... I shoot a little bit of everything. You know, ducks, rulers and brick walls among other things :lol:

I'd hate to buy too short a lens and notice afterwards that I want to buy another one.

[Scottes]

I got a 70-200 f/2.8 and a 1.4TC. A month later I got the 100-400 L IS. I haven't touched the 70-200 since then.

Poor baby. Maybe I'll take her out tomorrow.

[aeroshots2003]

I got a 70-200 f/2.8 and a 1.4TC. A month later I got the 100-400 L IS. I haven't touched the 70-200 since then.

Poor baby. Maybe I'll take her out tomorrow.

Why not send the "poor baby" to me? I surely would like to shed some sun on her aperture :D While you're at it, Fedex the Tcon as well please.

Muchas gracias,



Johan

[skiphoto]

Hi, Just out of interest I purchased a Sigma 50 - 500 (My 100 - 400L is sometimes a tad short). I was not overly convinced about the quality of the lens, but have shot quite a few pics from both stable platform (Land) and less stable (Boat) and the results have been impressive, very impressive. Wouldn't use it from a Helicopter (IS needed) but still very impressive and a huge range of focal length.

Just a thought

[aeroshots2003]

Hi, Just out of interest I purchased a Sigma 50 - 500 (My 100 - 400L is sometimes a tad short). I was not overly convinced about the quality of the lens, but have shot quite a few pics from both stable platform (Land) and less stable (Boat) and the results have been impressive, very impressive. Wouldn't use it from a Helicopter (IS needed) but still very impressive and a huge range of focal length.

Just a thought


Why would you need IS for shots from a helicopter? I've done it various times before. I don't have IS lenses, used ISO 50 and 100 and did splendid photography at between 1/125 and 1/250.


Johan

[skiphoto]

I have found that with the smaller choppers, chasing powerboats at 100+ MPH that the constant switching of position and vibration can play havoc with lens shake especially when trying to focus in on a skier behind said 100MPH Boat. I have found far better results with IS than without in many situations and so use it in all.

Personal preference is King 8)

[olas]

i am in the process of pondering myself...
for my current budget i am considering using the canon 75-200 F/4.0-5.6III with a 2x teleconverter... the teleconverter claims to retain autofocus capability for lenses of f4.0 and faster... does that mean that i will not be able to use this lens with the TC on a higher f stop setting?

comments on quality and sharpness would also be greatly appreciated.

btw... my intention is to use this lens for surfing shots.

[JZaun]

PekkaM

I just went through the same process. Couldn't afford (L) ath this time and wanted reach. Read a lot and settled on the Canon 100-300 f4.5-5.6.. Takes great pic's but lacks reach for me with bird shots. They are so small you need to get up close :D Ck my site, all bird shots are with 100-300 lens and at 300mm. I am now looking for more :? , maybe the 100-400(L) IS,, I know I know you guys are gonna say "I told you so" :lol: Maybe that won't be enough for me but anyhow.. maybe a 500mm prime :?

JZaun

[where1]

olas,
Check out this chart (http://www.bhphotovideo.com/FrameWork/charts/canon2xExtender.html) for lens compatibility with the Canon 2x.