Renting a 300 question

[CatchingUp]

Hi

I'm planning on being in Austin Texas this weekend to shoot the girls softball state championship. I'm thinking about renting a 300mm for my 30D. I noticed that rental price on the 2.8 is 50 dollars per day and only 25/day for the f4.

So...it's a day game. Can I go wrong going with the f4 for quality and sharpness? I've never used either lens.

[bildeb0rg]

Save 25 bucks and get the f4...unless you want everyone to move out of your way, as "you must work for the papers", then rent the 2.8 ;)

[Inspired Photography]

I just wish there was somewhere to rent a 300 f2.8 for $50 over here in Aus. There is like one place in Sydney i know I could rent one from (without being a CPS member) and it was like $300 for two days...

Rob

[Sledhed]

I currently own the 300 2.8 and I have owned the 300 f4, both are fantastic lenses and perform very well but I would spend the extra $25 to get the 2.8 just for the added DOF.

[Inspired Photography]

Oh, and I think if you are shooting outdoors, then the f4 would likely be plenty.

The bulk and weight of the f2.8 takes some getting used to, so without being familiar with it i would think you will get more from the f4.

Rob

[CatchingUp]

Well I called a place in Austin ( I live out of town) and the 2.8 was booked already...not surprised with all the high school playoff action going on there. I did reserve the f4. Guess now I'm wondering if I'll need a monopod. Seems like a more compact lens. Any one have input on the monopod option?

[<AkulA>]

Heck, if you're shooting for a long time, I think a monopod is a necessity for even the 70-200!

[paul cacciapaglia]

Well I called a place in Austin ( I live out of town) and the 2.8 was booked already...not surprised with all the high school playoff action going on there. I did reserve the f4. Guess now I'm wondering if I'll need a monopod. Seems like a more compact lens. Any one have input on the monopod option?
I shot a full day at a recent track and field meet with the f/4 without a tripod without tiring. It is lighter than my 70-200 f/2.8 IS. I see no need for a monopod.

[superdiver]

I would say the 2.8, cuz I bet you will run into lighting issues in the late hours...other then that I would go with the f4...

[MDJAK]

What's The Former Heavyweight Boxing Champ Evander Holyfield's nickname?

"The Real Deal."

If money is an issue, go with the f4. If an extra 50 isn't going to break you, go with The Real Deal. It's got to be used to be believed.

mark

[Sledhed]

Use a monopod, while the 300 f4 is not a really heavy lens you will get tired of holding it by the end of the day.

[ed rader]

Heck, if you're shooting for a long time, I think a monopod is a necessity for even the 70-200!

not for the f4 or f4 IS.

ed rader

[<AkulA>]

Hehehe, I'm lazy and weak tho :D ;)