Canon EF 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 USM

[joruiz]

Hello... is it valid to make an archive for a discontinued lens? I just bought this one from a fellow POTN member (thanks Myron) and I'm very, very happy with it!... I'm sure my best shots with it are yet to come, but I wanted to share one of my first shots with it, my little Samantha:
http://www.worx3d.com/forumpost/samantha1.jpg

Since this lens is still being bought and sold (I have seen another being sold right after I bought this one!) I guess it can be helpful for somone to make up their minds.

Great build quality, sharp, fast, silent. :)

Joel

[Swift1]

Fantastic photo, sharp, excellent exposure, and nice bokeh from f/3.5+ ! The 210mm makes this lens sound funny compared to the 70-200 and others, nice to see you have a limited / rare lens from Canon though :D.

[Jarette H]

Great shot, Joel! I sometimes still wish I hadn't sold that lens. It really is a great performer for the price :).

[joruiz]

Thanks Swift1.. it sounds funny, but familiar to me. I had this exact same range with a Pentax lens on a pentax body many years ago. This canon lens is really good! it was a smart decision to buy.

Jarette.. do you still have pictures taken with it? perhaps you can show? :)

Joel

[Jarette H]

Here are a few that I took last fall. One of my favorite things about this lens is the fast AF.

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/91/246260663_7f67fe0041_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/81/246260677_e4eea8a1e4_o.jpg

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/198/503866807_c690b2756c_o.jpg

[joruiz]

wow, those look extremely nice! I agree, the AF is very fast and accurate..

[alMout]

How is this lens as far as CA around white objects?

[dekalbSTEEL]

Hey Joel, you beat me to that lens by 2 minutes!

So I found another member selling one.:)

http://img477.imageshack.us/img477/3020/crw9252mediumde1.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[wazmunstr]

i've been eye balling this lens for a while now. every now and then one pops up on ebay. ill keep a look out for one!

[In2Photos]

Hello... is it valid to make an archive for a discontinued lens? I just bought this one from a fellow POTN member (thanks Myron) and I'm very, very happy with it!... I'm sure my best shots with it are yet to come, but I wanted to share one of my first shots with it, my little Samantha:


Since this lens is still being bought and sold (I have seen another being sold right after I bought this one!) I guess it can be helpful for somone to make up their minds.

Great build quality, sharp, fast, silent.

Joel
Absolutely, especially when the keeper owns this lens also. ;) I will add it to the list.

How is this lens as far as CA around white objects?
Not bad, unless you use a TC, then it becomes pretty visible. You have to be careful what you shoot.


Here are a few from me and I will add some more soon once I edit my zoo pics from last week.

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69497755.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69500757.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69892275.jpg



http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69501522.jpg

This is a heavy crop (almost 100%).

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69501509.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/69501506.jpg

This one shows the CA with an extender. (I corrected most of it, there was quite a bit of purple)

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/73549294.jpg

[4x4rock]

Super nice shots Joel, this is one lens I miss due to its weight, fast AF and great IQ.

The funny thing is the guy I sold it to bought a 70-200 f4 and now selling it for a good price if someone wants to pick it up locally in San Jose.

http://sfbay.craigslist.org/sby/pho/337096403.html

[Jaetie]

How is this lens as far as CA around white objects?

i never used to notice CA. but looking at my shots i shot at a sports final from 2 days ago, it can get quite bad - granted it was wide open and noticable only from 100% view. you won't notice it normally.

[In2Photos]

Here are a few from my visit to the zoo I couple weeks ago.


http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/79895387.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/79895382.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/79895364.jpg

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/79895367.jpg

[dekalbSTEEL]

Anyone find a good lens hood for this lens?

[In2Photos]

Anyone find a good lens hood for this lens?
It uses the ET-65II. I had an 85 1.8 that uses the ET-65III that also fit.

[dekalbSTEEL]

Thanks, Mike

I had bought a 58 screw in hood off ebay and it is totally cylindrical. does the canon model flare out at all? and does it screw in or clip in like a lens cap?

[In2Photos]

Thanks, Mike

I had bought a 58 screw in hood off ebay and it is totally cylindrical. does the canon model flare out at all? and does it screw in or clip in like a lens cap?
It is completely cylindrical, not petal shaped. It has the two spring loaded clips like a lens cap.

[joruiz]

Hey Joel, you beat me to that lens by 2 minutes!

So I found another member selling one.:)


hey... glad I did hehehe... I'm happy with this lens, good thing you found another. I saw two of these lenses for sale right after I bought mine.

In2Photos... those are some great pictures! what PP did you do to them?

I hope more people join this archive. I will post more of my pictures soon.

Joel

[envision1]

I happen to have one of these lenses' and am just wondering what the going price for one is....

[In2Photos]

hey... glad I did hehehe... I'm happy with this lens, good thing you found another. I saw two of these lenses for sale right after I bought mine.

In2Photos... those are some great pictures! what PP did you do to them?

I hope more people join this archive. I will post more of my pictures soon.

Joel
Sorry Joel. I didn't realize you posted this.

My PP is pretty basic. I shoot RAW only. The first set of photos were all done with Photoshop CS2. I basically do all my edits in ACR, convert to TIFF, apply some sharpening and print or post on the web. The first shot of my wife had some retouching done. There were some marks from her sun glasses, some wisps of hair that I removed, and some small blemishes. I also slighty corrected a yellow cast on her teeth caused by a warmer WB that I liked better. Here is an animated gif showing before and after (give it a sec to load)

http://www.pbase.com/madawson/image/71288267.jpg

On the second batch I used LR. My edits are done the same way though, only the basics like exposure, recovery, fill light, shadows, curves, and some vibrance are used. The first shot in this series does have a preset that I downloaded called 300 (for the movie), but otherwise only mior adjustments are made.

[In2Photos]

I happen to have one of these lenses' and am just wondering what the going price for one is....
I have seen them go between $165 and $225 depending on condition and included accessories like hood, filter, etc.

[envision1]

thanks!

[joruiz]

I thought I would share this pic.. nothing espectacular but I just liked it. It has some PP in LR and USM.

EF 70-210mm @ 70mm
1/125
f/4.0
ISO 400

http://www.worx3d.com/ssp_director/albums/album-4/hr/parras_web.jpg

[rprimeau95]

hey... glad I did hehehe... I'm happy with this lens, good thing you found another. I saw two of these lenses for sale right after I bought mine.

In2Photos... those are some great pictures! what PP did you do to them?

I hope more people join this archive. I will post more of my pictures soon.

Joel

I purchased this lens off ebay recently and was told that it was for the 35mm camera it works with my canon rebel I sure hope that is ok? Whenever I mention it to others they say you men the 70-200 I say no 70-210 they say never heard of it. Someone please tell me it is ok to use on the digital canons

thans

[david888lee]

oh man, now i want this lens! lol, btw, around how much should this lens be costing for a used one, of course

[simwells]

I purchased this lens off ebay recently and was told that it was for the 35mm camera it works with my canon rebel I sure hope that is ok? Whenever I mention it to others they say you men the 70-200 I say no 70-210 they say never heard of it. Someone please tell me it is ok to use on the digital canons

thans

It's entirely fine, any EF or EF-S lenses can be used on the digital bodies with smaller sensors sans the 10D (eg. the Rebel, XT, XTI, 20D and 30D)

[JVolz]

oh man, now i want this lens! lol, btw, around how much should this lens be costing for a used one, of course


They seem to be in about the $200-225 USD range.

[In2Photos]

oh man, now i want this lens! lol, btw, around how much should this lens be costing for a used one, of course

They seem to be in about the $200-225 USD range.
If people are getting that for them I should have waited to sell mine. ;) Most should go around $150-$180 depending on condition and accessories included.

[goatee]

Yes, it will work fine with your camera. Any Canon autofocus lens will work with your Rebel.

Enjoy!

I purchased this lens off ebay recently and was told that it was for the 35mm camera it works with my canon rebel I sure hope that is ok? Whenever I mention it to others they say you men the 70-200 I say no 70-210 they say never heard of it. Someone please tell me it is ok to use on the digital canons

thans

[thunnus]

Newbie with an XTi. Shot with the EF 70-210 f/3.5-4.5 at 140mm
ISO100, f/5.6, 1/125 sec

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v687/thunnus/Misc%20Family/IMG_7031_copy.jpg

[qwalls]

Just bought one on ebay for $150 for my son to use with my 30D when he shoots with me.
No post processing at ISO3200 with a 30D.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2298/1837644734_2f237f6551_b.jpg

Full size file: http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2298/1837644734_1868a9c5fd_o.jpg

[rprimeau95]

thanks for letting me know I figured it was ok Love that sunset picture WOW

[liquefied]

I bought one of these a few months ago from KEH. It was a BGN and came with no caps so I spent $170 total on it including new caps. I love this lens. It's sharp, has very fast AF, FTM focusing and doesn't zoom creep as much as one would expect. It's definitely a sleeper lens.

Shot at f/29 @ 1/8.

http://home.comcast.net/~sutters/windmill1.jpg

[gkoskela]

I just bought one, too. Probably spent a little too much ($190), but I'm very happy with it. This forum convinced me to buy it. I like this shot of my daughter (with a little bokeh, even):

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2166/2161184060_64ebb44226.jpg

[joruiz]

Here's one of my daugther riding the bike she got for christmas :) I love this old lens:

http://www.worx3d.com/ssp_director/albums/album-5/hr/dani_bicicleta_web-01.jpg

[joruiz]

This is not a birds lens by any means, but it's the longest I have so ... :)

http://www.worx3d.com/ssp_director/albums/album-4/hr/bird_01.jpg

[joruiz]

I just bought one, too. Probably spent a little too much ($190), but I'm very happy with it. This forum convinced me to buy it. I like this shot of my daughter (with a little bokeh, even):



beautiful shot and daughter.

[javanutsy]

It uses the ET-65II. I had an 85 1.8 that uses the ET-65III that also fit.

I'm also using the ET-65III with the 70-210 with no issues. Actually, I thought this was the official Canon specified hood for this lens...

Anyway, some nice pictures posted above. I'm not much of a telephoto shooter, but this lens is great in those times when I need it. And it is a lot more inconspicuous then those big white lenses...:rolleyes:

[simwells]

I'm also using the ET-65III with the 70-210 with no issues. Actually, I thought this was the official Canon specified hood for this lens...

Anyway, some nice pictures posted above. I'm not much of a telephoto shooter, but this lens is great in those times when I need it. And it is a lot more inconspicuous then those big white lenses...:rolleyes:

The numerals only signify the coating on the inside of the hood, so the ET-65I, ET-65II and ET-65II are all physically identical on the outside, each one has a different internal coating (painted, flocked etc.)

[joruiz]

Unfortunately it focused on his hat, but I still like this picture very much.

http://www.worx3d.com/forumpost/nino_mexico.jpg

[randomgrafix]

Great lens for the price. Pretty good for macro too, here I've got on full manual tubes with my DReb.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2267/2212905578_891f45ca87_o.jpg

[Marbeck]

I had one and sold it about 1 1/2 years ago for $165.00 As I remember it was a very good lense. Fast focusing and overall pretty sharpe.

[randomgrafix]

I just bought this lens from a buddy of mine. Great for outdoors, flash work and not a bad lens for macro either.

Xti with manual tubes.
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2086/2225987258_1019dc16c7.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2260/2219162184_d2ebdba0c4.jpg

Rebel 300D and manual tubes
http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2267/2212905578_488dbd7136.jpg

I'm having so much fun with this lens.

[JPM Photography]

just ordered this lens last night! I am so excited! I used to have the 55-200 f/4.5-5.6... :/

[hjmk]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3066/2949661197_928829f899_o.jpg

[just12]

40d, ISO 800, f/4.5, 1/125, 97mm
http://img135.imageshack.us/img135/2039/zwrzosrk5.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

and 100% crop:
(I think it's pretty sharp, DPP sharpness 5)
http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/9072/zwrzoscropzy3.jpg (http://imageshack.us)

[bauerman]

Just picked up a nice copy of this lens from a fellow POTN'er and could not be more happy with the purchase after day one. Sharp photos and lighting fast focusing.

Here is the street sign across from my front door. Shot at 210mm and ISO 500 to get proper shutter speeds. The detail captured in this very basic image is impressive to me.


Canon EOS 30D
210 mm
1/800 at f/4.5
ISO 500

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p3182631.jpg

100% Crop

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p419177308.jpg

[sukceno]

could you explain to me what is different of the lenses between /3,5-4,5 and /4

[bauerman]

The constant aperture f/4 lens is the older of the two, and there are some major differences to be found between the two lenses. The f/4 has the constant aperture, which is nice, and it has a push-pull zoom motion rather than the more familiar twisting action of most lenses today. It also has a dedicated macro mode....which the variable aperture version does not. Image quality wise I think that you will find that most people regard it as OK, but nothing stellar. Probably better then the cheaper Canon and third party tele-zooms that are abundant today though.

The 70-210mm f/3.5-4.5 or the variable aperture version I believe replaced the f/4 version and overall I believe it has a MUCH better overall reputation. Image quality wise and overall performance wise. It does not have a constant aperture as can be seen, but it is a slightly faster at the shorter focal ranges (f/3.5) and only goes up to 4.5 at full zoom - not bad at again especially considered against today's very common f/4-5.6 range of apertures on consumer level zooms. The HUGE advantage of the later variable aperture model is the ring USM focusing motor. That means FAST and accurate focusing. The focusing is almost silent, if you are familiar with a ring USM motor. The ring USM motor also allows for full time manual override focusing which is a great feature. The actual focusing elements of this variable aperture version are in the rear of the lens housing as well, so you do not have a rotating front element when focusing. (Great if you are going to be attempting to use certain filters on this lens.)

So while I don't think that the f/4 version is all bad.....there are some serious advantages to be had in grabbing the variable aperture version. I hope that helps answer your questions.

[bauerman]

Another Sample:

EOS 30D - 210mm - f4.5 - ISO 500 - No post processing or sharpening.

Original Shot:

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p476803826.jpg

100% Crop:

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p514333945.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Just picked up this lens tonight. Took some sample shots with it tonight, but nothing worth posting, just making sure it works, but in those 5 shots, I can tell this lens was well worth the money! Can't wait to use this lens a bit more.

I loved looking through all the samples and seeing of the fantastic things this lens can do. I can only hope I'll be contributing soon.

[bauerman]

Goincarcrazy - isn't this lens a smokin' deal? Some amazing photo quality from what I can see in my limited experience with it and for just peanuts.

Here is another example - same truck as shown above with with better lighting and the lens stopped down a bit. As you can see from these samples - as with a lot of lenses that display some purple fringing at wider apertures - it almost evaporates completely.

Full Shot:

Canon EOS 30D, f/8 @ 210 mm, 1/500, ISO 250

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p699237235.jpg

100% Crop:

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p746230426.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Indeed it does. I was playing a bit more with it tonight and found that with the right lighting, this lens is pretty impressive! I stuck a 36mm Kenko extension tube on it just to see what it would do and sure enough, its very comparable to my 100mm Macro.

[w7cma]

Anybody knows where I can pick one up?

[bauerman]

Anybody knows where I can pick one up?

Try both of these guys that had them for sale here on POTN in the recent past and may not have ever gotten rid of them:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=624174

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=629693

Or KEH has two of them in stock right now in "EX" condition - but they want $199 for them plus shipping. A little steep. You can see them here:

http://www.keh.com/OnLineStore/ProductDetail.aspx?groupsku=CE070090331420&brandcategoryname=35MM&Mode=searchproducts&item=0&ActivateTOC2=false&ID=&BC=CE&BCC=1&CC=7&CCC=2&BCL=&GBC=&GCC=&KW=70-210

I would probably recommend watching the buy and sell board here - they pop up every now and then. I might also suggest posting a WTB posting for this lens in the "Classifieds:Buy" forum itself. Then you are 'out there' and people know that you are looking. I will keep my eye out for you as well.

[w7cma]

Thanks man appreciate the info.

[bauerman]

Thanks man appreciate the info.

Hopefully you can grab one and post some samples out here.....good luck.

[Goincarcrazy]

Alright, I got a random sampling from today when I was trying out my new 430ex, I figured what the hey, I'll try my 70-210 as well.

1. Shot of my kitchen counter which is about 6 feet away, on an XSi @ 70mm, f/14, ISO 200. No PP has been done at all, no sharpening, no contrast, no nothin...straight from the camera
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b2/goingcarcrazy/2009_02_20_4410.jpg

2. 100% crop of the same shot
http://i16.photobucket.com/albums/b2/goingcarcrazy/2009_02_20_4410full.jpg

[bauerman]

Looks like you have a nice and sharp copy as well my friend. I hope to take mine to the park today and have a go with it. Will post some from the outing later tonight hopefully.

Congrats on the nice flash as well!

[w7cma]

Does anyone have both the 55-250 and the 70-210 they can make comparison shots? I have the 55-250, don't know if I would gain anything by going to the 70-210.

[DDWD10]

I just got this lens and tested it out at the zoo. Wow! It is crazy sharp wide open, even at 210mm. This is the first lens I've owned that I can shoot wide open shamelessly and still produce top-notch results. I'll post some pics later. I can't believe how much lens I got for just $150.

[Goincarcrazy]

I did the same with my new one and found that although fairly good wide open, it does give off quite a bit of aberration, even though I was shooting in fairly difficult lighting conditions. The IQ itself is excellent for the price of this lens though, so I'm going to have to try and give this lens another chance.

As far as a comparison to the 55-250 (which I've owned in the past) I find this lens to be very noticeably sharper at the long end, and about the same at the close end. The 55-250 would start getting soft around 175 or so where this lens just keeps on trucking. If I had to choose between the two, it'd be a VERY hard choice.

[DDWD10]

Here are two shots to show this lens's performance at 210mm wide open @ f/4.5 and stopped down @ f/8 with 100% crops. Untouched JPEGs straight from my 10D.

Wide open:

http://i39.tinypic.com/2nm3lnq.jpg

Wide open 100% crop:

http://i40.tinypic.com/2pt2usk.jpg

Stopped down to f/8:

http://i40.tinypic.com/iwm9o8.jpg

Stopped down to f/8 100% crop:

http://i40.tinypic.com/30wxqtf.jpg

[bauerman]

The 70-210mm in my opinion has everything OVER the 55-250 EXCEPT the IS. The IS is the big equalizer in that lens comparison equation. The 70-210mm has better overall build quality, metal lens mount, better optics (in my opinion), fast ring USM focusing with full time manual override, faster apertures at the wide and long ends and a distance scale built into the lens.....just to name a few.

With the 55-250mm you have kit lens quality, kit lens plastic mount, kit lens feel and then Canon slapped IS on it. If you took away the IS from that lens would this even be a tough choice? I don't think so. Plus - add in the fact that I grabbed my 70-210 for about $100 (compared to $250 for the 55-250) and I had a clear winner in my mind. I guess people have to decide if having the IS in low light situations is worth the extra $150.

[bauerman]

Shot from this past weekend at the park.

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p717030690-4.jpg

Shot at f/4.5 at 155mm

I continue to be impressed with this lens folks.

[DDWD10]

My only real beefs with it are CA at wider apertures and the ~3ft MFD.

Otherwise its cheap, sharp, sturdy and capable.

[bauerman]

My only real beefs with it are CA at wider apertures and the ~3ft MFD.

Otherwise its cheap, sharp, sturdy and capable.

Agreed with everything you just said.

Packing the lens around at the park on Saturday with the camera on a strap around my shoulder, the zoom creep reared its head. I would pull the camera up to my eye after some amount of time not using it and the lens would be fully extended. Not a huge deal but I hate walking around with the lens fully extended as it will potentially increase the chances of it banging into something....or someone.

This is a small beef that I am willing to live with based on the overall performance that I am seeing so far.

[Goincarcrazy]

My only real beefs with it are CA at wider apertures and the ~3ft MFD.

Otherwise its cheap, sharp, sturdy and capable.

Agreed with everything you just said.

Packing the lens around at the park on Saturday with the camera on a strap around my shoulder, the zoom creep reared its head. I would pull the camera up to my eye after some amount of time not using it and the lens would be fully extended. Not a huge deal but I hate walking around with the lens fully extended as it will potentially increase the chances of it banging into something....or someone.

This is a small beef that I am willing to live with based on the overall performance that I am seeing so far.

Good, so mines not the only one that's fairly "loose". I think between the two you, it summed up just about every bad thing about this lens, and seeing the price next to the short cons list, its still VERY worth the money.

[In2Photos]

Shot from this past weekend at the park.

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v5/p717030690-4.jpg

Shot at f/4.5 at 155mm

I continue to be impressed with this lens folks.
Where is the fill flash? ;) Glad to see you are still enjoying that lens!
My only real beefs with it are CA at wider apertures and the ~3ft MFD.

Otherwise its cheap, sharp, sturdy and capable.
And the CA gets REAL bad with a TC. But if you know that, you can shoot accordingly and "get around" it. Great lens for the money!

[bauerman]

Where is the fill flash? ;) Glad to see you are still enjoying that lens!


Those shadows on her face are 'artistic'..........:)

[DDWD10]

In some cases, fill flash can give the subject a nasty, flat-faced pasted-in look. You have to use it carefully.

[In2Photos]

Those shadows on her face are 'artistic'..........:)
LOL! Nice!
In some cases, fill flash can give the subject a nasty, flat-faced pasted-in look. You have to use it carefully.
No, you have to use it correctly! ;) Fill flash isn't difficult to master. It just takes a little practice to get the results you want. Once you dial it in, it works wonders.

[bauerman]

Ok - a sample from the lens that did NOT need fill flash.....:-)

Canon EOS 30D, f/8 @ 145 mm, 1/250, ISO 200

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p804592879-4.jpg

[DDWD10]

One more wide open:

[bauerman]

One more wide open:

Hey - the EXIF data has been stripped from that photo - what focal length was this taken at? Just curious.

[DDWD10]

That was at 210mm.

[bauerman]

That was at 210mm.

I assumed that it was close to fully zoomed because of the GREAT blurred background. Nice shot.

[DDWD10]

This one at 70mm f/4.5. Very sharp.

http://i41.tinypic.com/24nmr2x.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

That IS pretty darn sharp. Hopefully next week after the time change I'll have time to go out and shoot some ducks and test this lens a bit more. I'm very impressed with what I see and hopefully mine's the same.

[DDWD10]

You can also see that CA is not really an issue on the wide end like it is at 210mm.

[Goincarcrazy]

Very true, that's one thing I was noticing.

I forgot, I did manage to get this pic when I went to the zoo recently so I might as well post as an example. Shot at 210mm wide open.

I didn't get much CA on this pic, however I got some of the worst I've seen taken of the same bird about 30 seconds later at a different angle.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3488/3305020247_57b7008fdb_b.jpg

[DDWD10]

I guess I should be fair and show the downsides of this lens as well. This wide open 210mm shots shows the worst CA of any shot I've taken so far.

http://i40.tinypic.com/fxzexg.jpg

[bauerman]

Luckily CA is one of the easier things to correct in post processing. If the lens had to have a fault - this is probably the one that I would choose.

[Goincarcrazy]

I guess that would all depend on where the CA appears, but I will say that I agree completely about it being the flaw to choose. It's much better than softness or distortion (although with PS, that's easy to get rid of too)

[DDWD10]

Moon shot at 210mm f/8, 100% crop:

Not too bad, eh?

[Goincarcrazy]

wow, not bad at all. I've seen much worse coming out of the 55-250 AND the 70-300 IS. Maybe I'm still underestimating this lens...

Just as a heads up, I'm probably going to be selling mine since I found a killer deal on a 70-200L :(

[In2Photos]

wow, not bad at all. I've seen much worse coming out of the 55-250 AND the 70-300 IS. Maybe I'm still underestimating this lens...

Just as a heads up, I'm probably going to be selling mine since I found a killer deal on a 70-200L :(
If you are comtemplating the 70-200 f/4 then you might want to read this comparison:

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=333670

While the 70-210 is a nice lens with SUPER value, the f/4, as expected, has better IQ.

[bauerman]

Just as a heads up, I'm probably going to be selling mine since I found a killer deal on a 70-200L :(

Sell out.

;)

[Goincarcrazy]

I knew I was gonna get my chops busted, haha. We'll see what happens. I'm going to check out the 70-200 this weekend, although I know I'm going to miss this lens.

In2photos: That's a great comparison by the way. Comparing the pics from the two lenses, I notice that with the 70-200 I won't have to worry about CA at all if any (unless I'm shooting under crazy lighting conditions), but other than that, there's not TOO much of a difference.

[bauerman]

but other than that, there's not TOO much of a difference.


That is why the 70-210mm is the "poor man's L".............and that is SO fitting of a title for me right now...

[DDWD10]

I thought about it but then I realized that I was still shooting with a 10D and getting a 30D should be my next upgrade!

[bauerman]

I thought about it but then I realized that I was still shooting with a 10D and getting a 30D should be my next upgrade!

I shoot a 30D and could not be more pleased with the body. You are REALLY going to notice improvements in speed of the cameras operation right away coming from a 10D.

[In2Photos]

I knew I was gonna get my chops busted, haha. We'll see what happens. I'm going to check out the 70-200 this weekend, although I know I'm going to miss this lens.

In2photos: That's a great comparison by the way. Comparing the pics from the two lenses, I notice that with the 70-200 I won't have to worry about CA at all if any (unless I'm shooting under crazy lighting conditions), but other than that, there's not TOO much of a difference.

If you go by just the images alone the 70-210 is a great lens. When you add in the "other" factors the L really shines. No zoom creep, smooth zoom ring, fixed barrel length, less PP time. These were all important factors for me. But I certainly can't fault ANYONE for keeping the 70-210!
I thought about it but then I realized that I was still shooting with a 10D and getting a 30D should be my next upgrade!
If you can squeeze it, the 40D is much nicer. I had to let mine go after I upgraded to a MKII and kept the 30D because of money. This was a year ago when the price difference between the two was still about $400. You will be happy with either camera, but some features on the 40D were just so nice to have.

[DDWD10]

I'm pretty far behind the curve; look at my signature! :P

I should be able to get $300 for my 10D including the BG-ED3 grip. Then I'd get a 30D for $500 or so. $200 is a small amount of money for a big upgrade.

I got my friend interested in DSLRs and he bought a 30D and I've used it quite a bit. It's a huge leap in feel, focus accuracy, speed, you name it!

Of course, in a few more years I'll want a 5D Classic.

[bauerman]

I'm pretty far behind the curve; look at my signature! :P

I should be able to get $300 for my 10D including the BG-ED3 grip. Then I'd get a 30D for $500 or so. $200 is a small amount of money for a big upgrade.

I got my friend interested in DSLRs and he bought a 30D and I've used it quite a bit. It's a huge leap in feel, focus accuracy, speed, you name it!

Of course, in a few more years I'll want a 5D Classic.

You should be able to grab a low miles 30D for closer to $400 rather than $500. So you would only be in the $100 range of money to "make up". And I would agree going to the 30D would be a big upgrade from a 10D. You'll love it. One feature that I really enjoy is the 1/3 stop ISO settings. Very nice.

[DDWD10]

One feature that I really enjoy is the 1/3 stop ISO settings. Very nice.

Yes, and the high ISO performance is better too. I did a head-to-head with my 10D vs. my friend's 30D at ISO 1600 and couldn't believe my eyes. The 30D was miles ahead.

But is it true though that these "software interpolated" ISO stops (160, 320, etc) produce more noise than the hardware (100, 200, 400, etc) do?

For the sake of not derailing this thread, here's another sample :lol:

http://i42.tinypic.com/2cpvu9s.jpg

[bauerman]

Yeah - head over to the 30D users thread and we can continue this discussion!

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=588153

[Goincarcrazy]

Well, I'm officially a sellout...if anyone is interested in buying a nice copy of a 70-210 3.5-4.5, I've got one for sale currently. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to put a link to it (it's in the buy sell forum) but it's up and looking for a home.

There are some amazing shots from this lens from everyone in here so keep up the good work!

[DDWD10]

If I had the cash for a 70-200mm f/4L I'd reluctantly let this one go too. Until then, I can work around this lens's few limitations.

Have fun with your 70-200L. My buddy who is new to DSLRs is looking for a telephoto and I told him to look no further than the 70-200L.

[bauerman]

Well, I'm officially a sellout...if anyone is interested in buying a nice copy of a 70-210 3.5-4.5, I've got one for sale currently. I'm not sure if I'm allowed to put a link to it (it's in the buy sell forum) but it's up and looking for a home.

There are some amazing shots from this lens from everyone in here so keep up the good work!


You may want to look back in this thread - there was another member of POTN looking for one - he posted that here.

So you got a smokin' deal on the 70-200 f/4 L?

[Goincarcrazy]

Somewhat of one, enough that I just couldn't pass it up. Plus it was from another POTNer that's local, who, along with his wife, have become good friends of both myself and my fiance.

I'll read back through here in the morning to see what I can scrounge up. Thanks for the tip!

[bauerman]

Somewhat of one, enough that I just couldn't pass it up. Plus it was from another POTNer that's local, who, along with his wife, have become good friends of both myself and my fiance.

I'll read back through here in the morning to see what I can scrounge up. Thanks for the tip!


That's the best kind of transaction.........congrats on the new lens. That 70-200 f/4 L archive thread is not going to be nearly as friendly as this one!!!
;)

[Goincarcrazy]

That's the best kind of transaction.........congrats on the new lens. That 70-200 f/4 L archive thread is not going to be nearly as friendly as this one!!!
;)

That's for sure, nor is it as small and quaint. I'll stay subscribed to this one as well cause I always like seeing how the underdog turns out in the end :).

[bauerman]

That's for sure, nor is it as small and quaint. I'll stay subscribed to this one as well cause I always like seeing how the underdog turns out in the end :).


Ahhhh touche`......shifty insertion of the "underdog" comment there at the end....

[Goincarcrazy]

Ahhhh touche`......shifty insertion of the "underdog" comment there at the end....

Ok then, I'll define underdog in the term that I meant it. Simply the less popular, most unlikely, but fully capable lens comparatively to the 70-200 f/4L.

[bauerman]

Ok then, I'll define underdog in the term that I meant it. Simply the less popular, most unlikely, but fully capable lens comparatively to the 70-200 f/4L.


Gotcha!

Have any of you guys ever looked into an even older lens than this 70-210mm - an EF 100-300mm f/5.6 L lens from like the 80's? I heard something about it the other day and it seemed interesting. Non-ring USM focusing motor, but L quality optics nonetheless. Sells in the $250 range.

[bauerman]

Quick shots from yesterday using AI servo and all focus points with this lens. It worked really well. Just quick snaps - but no sharpening added to any of them or other photoshopping....just resizing in Elements....

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v6/p392761286-5.jpg

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p148397727-5.jpg

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p121581108-5.jpg

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v8/p53722161-5.jpg

[DDWD10]

8 aperture blades + decently fast aperture + 210mm = great bokeh. Much better than my 28-135 and Nifty Fifty.

[bauerman]

Another recent sample from this lens......I'm starting to enjoy having out of focus elements in the foreground of shots now as well......

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p1018018671-4.jpg

[sukceno]

I'v got the lens today. please, find my first try, handheld
at70
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3661/3365299575_54d3e7c4de_b.jpg

at100
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3643/3366130842_586359ae4f_b.jpg

at150
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3419/3365316375_317e3a933b_b.jpg

at210
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3660/3365325853_22cb3552f1_b.jpg

[996gt2]

^^Good pictures. Glad you like the lens.

Here are a few I have, taken at focal lengths of between 125 and 175mm, wide open aperture:

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j120/996gt2/Photography/Winny3.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j120/996gt2/Photography/Winny5.jpg

http://i78.photobucket.com/albums/j120/996gt2/Photography/Winny6.jpg

[deming]

I AM SO TORN BETWEEN THIS LENS, NIFTY TWO FIFTY AND 135MM (W/SF) !!!

[Electric Shepherd]

Here's one I took with it at Wimbledon last year:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3262/2629395872_e7c6ae6ca0_o.jpg

[bauerman]

Great shot - who is that player, I follow tennis but he is not familiar to me.

[sukceno]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3377/3414217485_58900ffa64_b.jpg

[Electric Shepherd]

Great shot - who is that player, I follow tennis but he is not familiar to me.
Thanks, that's Fernando Verdasco.

[DDWD10]

http://i43.tinypic.com/206c7dt.jpg

[Pommekitty]

You've convinced me! I was reluctantly going to save and buy a 55-250mm IS (I say reluctantly because the aperture wasn't wide enough for me) but I found this thread by chance while researching something else completely and I knew this was the lens for me after looking at the great pics posted here:

very low price + zoom + possibility to use filters + decent aperture to shoot moving subjects outdoors + fast AF + great IQ= My dream lens.

Lucky for me, there are 3 currently for sale on ebay France so I expect I'll be able to contribute to this thread in a short while.

[bauerman]

You've convinced me! I was reluctantly going to save and buy a 55-250mm IS (I say reluctantly because the aperture wasn't wide enough for me) but I found this thread by chance while researching something else completely and I knew this was the lens for me after looking at the great pics posted here:

very low price + zoom + possibility to use filters + decent aperture to shoot moving subjects outdoors + fast AF + great IQ= My dream lens.

Lucky for me, there are 3 currently for sale on ebay France so I expect I'll be able to contribute to this thread in a short while.

I think that you made the right choice - look forward to some of your shots being posted here.

[Pommekitty]

I think that you made the right choice - look forward to some of your shots being posted here.

I think so too. I just need to get my hands on one though! Just got outbid on Ebay unfortunately. And by only 1€ too! I'm rusty at these kinds of thing. Better luck on the next one hopefully.

EDIT: Snagged the second one that was for sale for a lower price than the one I got outbid on. I guess it was all to the good then :) I guess I'll be able to add the 70-210 to my sig in a few days.

[bauerman]

EDIT: Snagged the second one that was for sale for a lower price than the one I got outbid on. I guess it was all to the good then :) I guess I'll be able to add the 70-210 to my sig in a few days.

Good - more samples on the way for this thread.......;)

[Electric Shepherd]

Here's a recent shot I took with it:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3401/3430562239_d8f89bfe66_o.jpg

[DDWD10]

Nice one. I've figured it's best to just shoot wide open, get the DoF "pop" and accept the fact that you can't make huge prints on the long end. The short end is much sharper wide open though.

[kitacanon]

Well...this thread has sold me...I've one coming next week...an ebay win...

[DDWD10]

Grats! You'll love this well-kept secret of a lens.

[Pommekitty]

Well, I received my 70-210 yesterday and I'm already happy with it. I'm not used to the weight or long range yet (I've been shooting with the ultra light 50mm 1.8 for months) but I definitely don't regret buying this lens.

The only trouble I've had so far is keeping my camera and lens stable when I'm shooting at 150-210mm. It'll get better when my hands and wrists are more used to the weight.

Some of my first test shots. Warning: Horses ahoy! Taken at various focal lengths. Some light PP. I'll post some photos without PP.

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Spring%202009/codcomapr2509.jpg


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Spring%202009/IMG_4073.jpg


http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Spring%202009/savprtapr2509.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Spring%202009/IMG_3842.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Spring%202009/IMG_4037.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Wow! Those pics make me wonder why I sold mine! jeez!

[DDWD10]

Lord Monckton, taken indoors on a very dark stage. Even without the benefit of IS I was able to get some crisp shots.

http://i43.tinypic.com/xm3btj.jpg

[Pommekitty]

I love my 70-210 more and more everyday. I couldn't be happier with it and I can't believe I just paid $140 for it!

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Test/quixoteclrmay309.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Test/sabiogalmay309.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Test/numemay309.jpg

http://i6.photobucket.com/albums/y209/missnymeria/Test/quixoteprtmay309.jpg

This lens is sharp even in the longer focal range, focusing is a dream compared to my 50mm 1.8, colors pop. Perfect. For the price I think it's an outstanding lens.

[Pommekitty]

Lord Monckton, taken indoors on a very dark stage. Even without the benefit of IS I was able to get some crisp shots.



I've noticed that too. You've posted a great exemple. I don't regret the lack of IS one bit.

[HaroldC3]

I re-bought this lens a month or so ago. It's a great little lens, that's for sure.

Here are a couple of my little ones...

[kitacanon]

I've only had time to just shoot some test shots and they show that you can rely on edge to edge sharpness with little CA at F5.6 at all focal lengths...
I've gotten good shots wide open indoors of people where extreme sharpness isn't all that needed (the extreme depth of field enhances the appearance of sharpness) and where CA due to extreme bright backgrounds is less an issue (just avoid that bright window in the background :) )...

This is the "shooting range" out my front door....and a sample test... (taken at different days and times and with different lenses)...the full range shot with the 35/2...

http://img338.imageshack.us/img338/1324/5056ff.jpg

210mm full frame (sRAW converted/saved and reduced to 175ppi, no USM) and 100% crops with usm of 100/.3/0 in PS6

http://img18.imageshack.us/img18/7227/21056ffjj175p.jpg

http://img22.imageshack.us/img22/9826/21056ctu13.jpg

http://img14.imageshack.us/img14/1381/21056cru13.jpg

[bauerman]

Great shots guys - good to see this thread get a bit more active. This is such a FINE lens, this thread should be overrun with wonderful photos. It just seems that there are not many copies in use out there compared to other similar lenses. I fear that many of the 70-210mm that could be being used digitally are sitting in a film-based camera bag in someones closet!

Recent shot of a spring tulip with my 70-210mm. Buttery bokeh......

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v1/p1065146397-4.jpg

[Electric Shepherd]

One from the rugby last weekend, should have used a slightly quicker shutter, but my first time shooting rugby so reasonably pleased:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3657/3518004066_22b1ec70b2_b.jpg

[kandyredcoi]

i have one on loan from a good friend
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/fluxmr2spyder/5-02-2009/IMG_2381.jpg

[DDWD10]

Great for portraits. The 8-bladed aperture diaphragm produces L-like bokeh:

http://i44.tinypic.com/qqswzr.jpg

A shot at 70mm, stopped down a bit, with 100% crop.

http://i43.tinypic.com/w7n239.jpg

http://i44.tinypic.com/208abdc.jpg

[Dick Emery]

Has anyone tried using this with a Kenko Pro 2x TC? Example shots please if you have. Thanks in advance.

[DDWD10]

Wide open at 145mm:

http://i40.tinypic.com/iogs3d.jpg

[kandyredcoi]

Has anyone tried using this with a Kenko Pro 2x TC? Example shots please if you have. Thanks in advance.
took some quick shots from my front balcony

used a quantaray 2x extender on my 5D2 @ f/4.0 on "P"

with 2x @ 70mm = 140mm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/fluxmr2spyder/random/IMG_1459.jpg

with 2x @ 210mm = 420mm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/fluxmr2spyder/random/IMG_1460.jpg

w/out 2x @ 70mm
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/fluxmr2spyder/random/IMG_1461.jpg

w/out 2x @ 210
http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v476/fluxmr2spyder/random/IMG_1462.jpg

tell u tho, its really hard to keep the camera stable, i did not use a mono or a tripod, all shots are handheld

[DDWD10]

http://i40.tinypic.com/2wnn60l.jpg

Took this at f/7.1 210mm

'Lishly good!

[bauerman]

Wonderful shot DDWD......wonderful light, color and that nice background thrown WAY out of focus by this outstanding lens.

[DDWD10]

It was actually taken at f/9, not f/7.1.

Here is an untouched 100% crop:

http://i44.tinypic.com/103vsx1.jpg

Unbelievable!

[KDEWolf]

I'm completely astonished with the bokeh...
I wonder if does anyone out there still have this lens up for sale. I'd be very interested.

[bauerman]

One from an event this past Friday evening.........

Canon EOS-1D, f/6.3 @ 210 mm, 1/1000, ISO 400

http://jbauer.zenfolio.com/img/v4/p670780716-4.jpg

[Pommekitty]

It was actually taken at f/9, not f/7.1.

Here is an untouched 100% crop:

http://i44.tinypic.com/103vsx1.jpg

Unbelievable!

Unbelievable indeed! Man, I do love this lens:) You can't beat it for the price. I've been looking at the 70-200 f/4 L USM thread and, while the pics are very nice, I think we're extremely lucky with our $150 piece of glass.


It's great to see all the pictures posted since I came here last but...keep them coming people! We need more :)

[DDWD10]

Nice moon shot from a few nights back:

http://i43.tinypic.com/331226f.jpg

A little PP... but not bad for a full moon.

[DDWD10]

Here is another lizard shot, this time wide open at 210mm! Given good light and a fast shutter speed, this lens kicks!

http://i40.tinypic.com/fxe9tu.jpg

http://i43.tinypic.com/168wlxv.jpg

[HaroldC3]

Here is a duck shot taken with a 5D wide open.

Top one is the resized version, bottom is 100% crop.

[DDWD10]

That is incredible! I'm thinking of upgrading to a 5D in a year or so. Good to know I can keep my 70-210mm.

[Electric Shepherd]

Took mine to take some tennis shots at the weekend:

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3649/3625529323_dd02e77628_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2447/3625506327_1e32b820b8_o.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3606/3626332256_8893c28b88_o.jpg

The fast USM really helps with these kinds of shots.