Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM - AKA The Dust Pump

[Eagle]

I am looking at getting this lens, but I wonder how easy/difficult is the push-pull zooming while handholding the lens.
IMO, it doesn't get any easier.

[Madweasel]

One major advantage of the push/pull design is that your hands are always in the best place for supporting the camera and lens as steadily as possible. If you had a twist action on a big lens like that, your grip would not be so good if you zoomed while shooting. I think it makes the operation faster too.

[cfibanez]

One major advantage of the push/pull design is that your hands are always in the best place for supporting the camera and lens as steadily as possible. If you had a twist action on a big lens like that, your grip would not be so good if you zoomed while shooting. I think it makes the operation faster too.

Thanks Mark. Your comments begin to swing me in the right direction. I have a 7D waiting for me in NYC and plan to take the two bodies to the Galapagos next month. Naturally, I thought to get the pump for greater reach and a leave WA on the second body. The pump is 10 years old, and it may get upgraded tomorrow, but I feel that it will rock on the 7D during my trip.

[Goincarcrazy]

having a body with a WA and one with a superzoom would be a HUGE advantage, especially when you're only gonna be somewhere once with no chance of going back any time soon. No regrets to be had! so I think you're strategy will be GREAT and I know the 100-400L won't let ya down.

[Goincarcrazy]

WOW! was any PP done to that? Specifically any sharpening?

[KenjiS]

WOW! was any PP done to that? Specifically any sharpening?


Indeed, it looks a tidge oversharpened to me, Maybe back off just a hair :) [just trying to help]

[Goincarcrazy]

I was just shocked at how sharp it looked! Also, is that a crop or was the bird just fairly tame?

[aviator.4.life]

How is performance with a 1.4x converter?

[Andy Favors]

More elk in Arkansas........


http://andyfavors.smugmug.com/photos/678282027_8y5Zn-M.jpg

http://andyfavors.smugmug.com/photos/678282110_bKz8Z-M.jpg

http://andyfavors.smugmug.com/photos/678283253_qcYPZ-M.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

From my experience with it, it seems that it works pretty well with the 1.4x converter. As I've noted before, I have the Canon 1.4x and since it DOES have AF pins, it is a pain in the rump to focus since the viewfinder is kinda dark and for some reason, somewhat blotchy. As far as IQ goes, I don't really even notice a difference other than focus error on my part.

[peterbj7]

I wonder how easy/difficult is the push-pull zooming while handholding the lens

I was also worried about that. My previous experience with e (relatively) long lens was a Tamron SP 70-210, which had both twist focus and twist zoom. I got used to that, but it was slow in operation. The 100-400, as well as being much longer, is quicker to operate and certainly no harder to hand-hold.

I took this photo down here in Belize at Mardi Gras when the lens was very new to me. Hand-held at 400, though admittedly in good light.

http://i219.photobucket.com/albums/cc230/peterbj7/IMG_1021.jpg

[zoom_zoom]

Good to see you managed a couple of birdies whilst at golf :D:D:D

here is a bird I captured with the mighty 100-400!

Using the break wall as a long lead in to the subject
http://photocamel.com/gallery/data/3121/Lauren_Quinn_19-09-09_0039_blissfull_recline_breakwater_bg_i.jpg (http://photocamel.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=49274)

And in this shot I was halfway across the park with families all around me lol.

http://photocamel.com/gallery/data/3121/Lauren_Quinn_19-09-09_0053_edit_MM.jpg (http://photocamel.com/gallery/showphoto.php?photo=49275)

so its a great fashion lens too!

Thanks for posting people shots... I was looking at this lens at the camera store the other day and was wondering how it performs for people shots. Looks like it does well! I'd be more interested in using this lens for event-type shots. By the way, what's the exif on the shots?

[_aravena]

It's great for people! I love renting that lens! I just wish i could own it. It would be so glued to my camera. The 70-200 would only see light for weddings! :lol: This lens just performs so amazingly well!

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oklahoma_City_Cats-368.jpg

[Neilyb]

http://neilburton.smugmug.com/photos/679868304_vSnwn-O.jpg

[Andy Favors]

Crazy sharp. What body?

[kcisland]

I got this lens for a trip to Peru and absolutely loved it. It performed well and was sharp on a 450 xsi. Has anyone had any experience using the 500D close up lens with this lens. I would love to see some sample pics in anyone has them.

[KenjiS]

Crazy sharp. What body?

Seconded!

[Neilyb]

Seconded!

5D!

[Andy Favors]

5D!

Nice!!

[MikeFairbanks]

My latest with the Dust Pump. I've had it two weeks now and use it 99% handheld. I'm not a big fan of tripods. I have one, but I like hand-holding it. People who complain about how heavy it is should really stop and think about what they're saying. The lens and camera (Rebel XS) have a combined weight of about 3 pounds. That's a third the weight of your typical cat.

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt98/MichaelFairbanks/GoldenKnightsSoclosetoFinished.jpg

http://i601.photobucket.com/albums/tt98/MichaelFairbanks/GreatCatch2.jpg

[Burnaby]

People who complain about how heavy it is should really stop and think about what they're saying. The lens and camera (Rebel XS) have a combined weight of about 3 pounds. That's a third the weight of your typical cat.Limp wrists, I guess...

[RAW-Shooter]

That's a third the weight of your typical cat.


Did you ever try to hold a cat in front of your face? :D

[Eagle]

Did you ever try to hold a cat in front of your face? :D
And if it's eyes are the lens, you have to look up it's butt!

[MikeFairbanks]

Did you ever try to hold a cat in front of your face? :D


Yeah, I'm just saying that these zoom lenses (the 100-400 and the 70-200s) aren't that big or heavy. Sure, your wrist gets sore after a little while, but if you buck up and tough it out, you get used to it.

When I was growing up surfing, I rode boards that were about 6 feet in length. The first time I bought a ten-foot board, it seemed impossible to turn. But after a few weeks it became easy and intuitive.

Same with lenses, swords, women, etc. ;)

[Madweasel]

Well aren't you big and tough? Perhaps you're forgetting that not everyone on this forum is a fit young man. Some people are happy handholding a 600/4, others think a 70-200/4 is too much - you're out of place criticising them (in my opinion).

[huhging]

It's a pretty good lens.....

[MikeFairbanks]

Well aren't you big and tough? Perhaps you're forgetting that not everyone on this forum is a fit young man. Some people are happy handholding a 600/4, others think a 70-200/4 is too much - you're out of place criticising them (in my opinion).


I'm definitely not fit or young, but thanks for the kind words. I am often mistaken for Brad Pitt, George Clooney, or Jason Alexander.

[Zethar]

Here's one from today with the 1.4X tele.

[EtherealZee]

Here's one from today with the 1.4X tele.

I'm very glad to see that post. I feel really good about picking up this lens, considering I'm planning to add a 1.4 tele (probably a Kenko 300DG Pro) to my kit for this lens. Now I just need the skill.. Z...

[Tom H. Photography]

It's a pretty good lens.....

That is seriously cute :D

[20DNewbie]

I just got mine last week and compared to the one I rented a few years back I'm extremely pleased with it.

[hodown55]

Went to the Western Plains Zoo near Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia to see if the 100-400L would suit for a trip to Africa next year (50D at present, but a 7D is on order).

Don't really want to lug the extra weight/size of my Sigma 150-500 OS.

Kev

[Chris Newberry]

One of mine.My Gallery http://ChrisNewberry.zenfolio.com/p1037919058

[stonyzmom]

One from this morning..........

http://i423.photobucket.com/albums/pp318/tstone333/_-92.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Went to the Western Plains Zoo near Dubbo, New South Wales, Australia to see if the 100-400L would suit for a trip to Africa next year (50D at present, but a 7D is on order).

Don't really want to lug the extra weight/size of my Sigma 150-500 OS.

Kev

Love the Meerkat shot!

[Candor]

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_7909.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_8608.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_9517.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_0393.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_0469.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_6111.jpg

[Eagle]

Candor, first and last are great.

[stonyzmom]

A few more from the weekend.......

http://img25.imageshack.us/img25/1809/brownpelican.jpg

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/7681/142kd.jpg

European Starling upshot
http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/7554/182da.jpg

[radiohead1984]

i am totally going to rent this lens and if i LOVE it, i will buy it.

[Andy Favors]

Save your money from the rental and just buy it, :)

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oakland_Zoo-276.jpg

[Andy Favors]

How many people have had their IS fail on them on this lens? Mine was on the edge of death, over a 2 day period. I just sent it in to canon. The focusing was acting all weird too. Just curious if mine was a black sheep.

[radiohead1984]

im starting to wish i bought the 50D instead of my 500D now :(

[Zethar]

Great shots candor! That hummingbird is especially good.

[Burnaby]

im starting to wish i bought the 50D instead of my 500D now :(It's called evolution, and sometimes it can be painful... :)

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oakland_Zoo-342.jpg

[Candor]

Great shots candor! That hummingbird is especially good.

Candor, first and last are great.

Thanks very much!

[FlyingPhotog]

Learjet Model 60
http://upload.pbase.com/image/118886036/original.jpg
1DMkIII + 100-400mm
1/500 @ f/5.6 ISO 100 @ 177mm

[radiohead1984]

I ORDERED THIS LENS TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

it probably won't come until next week.
oh god

so nervous/anxious.

(no more spending starting..now)

[yellowroadster]

Congrats! Have fun with it. It's an awesome lens!
I just put mine up for sale.
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=776044

[stonyzmom]

I ORDERED THIS LENS TODAY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

it probably won't come until next week.
oh god

so nervous/anxious.

(no more spending starting..now)

You will love it. I have never been happier with a lens. So versatile.

[vk2gwk]

With a big garden with all sorts of birds and other wildlife I love my 100-400L. Even carried it all the way to Europe although it weighs a ton....

http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/album/ibis2001.jpg

[Andy Favors]

It only weighs a lot at first. You get used to it.

[stonyzmom]

It only weighs a lot at first. You get used to it.

Yep.....I hand carry mine for 5-6 hours at a time while shooting baseball games. I have to say that I am also partial to the push-pull zoom now. I love it.

[FlyingPhotog]

Stick a 300 f/2.8 + 2X on your other shoulder and after a while, you won't even notice the 100-400! ;)

[radiohead1984]

can't wait to take this to the zoo.

[vk2gwk]

can't wait to take this to the zoo.

Here is one from the zoo (Emmen Zoo - Noorder Dierenpark - The Netherlands).

http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/album/monkey1072.jpg

5D2 ; 100-400 L IS USM @ 130 mm - ISO 400, F/5.6 T 1/160

[vk2gwk]

And here is another one....
http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/album/owl1127.jpg

Canon 5D2 100-400mm f/4-5.6 L IS USM @ 210mm ISO 1250 f/5.6 1/640
BTW this was in an enclosure where there was a mesh between the camera and the bird..... Even at pixel level I cannot find this.... :)

[vk2gwk]

And to finish it off....
http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/album/gir1101.jpg

Canon 5D2 - 100-400mm F4-5.6 L IS USM @150 mm ISO 400 F/10 1/500

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oakland_Zoo-115_10x20.jpg

[-g-]

http://i243.photobucket.com/albums/ff44/genodm/Photowalks/IMG_9963.jpg

[HenriS]

That's impressive, James (the photo and your gear list :))... here's one from me.

50D & The Pump at 400 mm, f/5.6, 1/200, ISO 400, hand-held.

http://www.elisanet.fi/henri_salmi/POTN/Japani-433.jpg

[funhouse69]

Here's a few from my recent trip all taken with my 5D Mark II and Dust Pump!

Can you tell I like Big Cats???

http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG2929-5DMK2/704777190_n3tWj-L.jpg http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG2936/704777819_rJgWZ-L.jpg

http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG3005-5DMK2/704782518_VaftJ-L.jpg http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG3029-5DMK2/704785057_72ik4-L.jpg

http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG3001-5DMK2/704781996_2H3wf-L.jpg http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG2956-5DMK2/704779343_9g7SQ-L.jpg

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oakland_Zoo-146.jpg


http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oakland_Zoo-131.jpg

[vk2gwk]

I guess we must have been to the same zoo.... :)
http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/mk1107.jpg

http://tobbe.net.au/blog/images/zebra1050.jpg

[misty66]

Can you tell I like Big Cats???

http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG2929-5DMK2/704777190_n3tWj-L.jpg http://www.rockingpictures.com/2009/Vegas/Sigfried-and-Roys-Secret/IMG2936/704777819_rJgWZ-L.jpg


A bit small, but I like them anyway....I hopefully can buy this
lens in a couple of months. Finally some reach.....

[funhouse69]

Small?

[Trevi]

http://i132.photobucket.com/albums/q12/surfphotos/bcam/081109_0068_1.jpg

[MikeFairbanks]

I learned the hard way today that the dust pump isn't good for everything.

I did a "professional" shoot today (meaning, I attempted to do for free what most pros would charge a lot for...photographing a family in blue jeans and white shirts down by a river).

Man, it sucked. Too much sunlight and shadow, and all the good shots have a frowning kid or a frowning adult.

I am so glad I'm not a professional photographer. I'd go nuts.


I knew it was going to be bad when I walked into their house this morning (they're friends and neighbors, and I did the job for free) and I saw a ton of excellent professional photography all over their walls. Pictures of the family.

Then the wife started telling me how bad all the pictures on the wall were. I said, "but the lighting is fantastic. The composition is great. These are excellent photographs."

She'd say things like, "I don't like the way my kid is leaning here, or that shirt has a wrinkle."

Geesh.

Long story short: I've been loving my 100-400, and after about 300 crappy shots today with it, I'm a little despondent. Normally I take pictures I really like with the dust pump, but today I couldn't do anything right, and when I did....the family was frowning.

Dang!

[funhouse69]

Now you know why I only shoot things that can't talk back to me :-)

[FlyingPhotog]

The 100-400 is a versatile lens. It is not, however, an all in one solution for every conceivable photographic situation.

So, who suggested the location, the time of day and the white shirts? You or the Family?

Mistake #1: Not taking control of your own shoot.

[Goincarcrazy]

I FINALLY got to use this lens for some race photography. Being banished to the bleachers, this lens comes in great handy when the fences are looming and trying to ruin your shots any chance they get! Here are a couple that I came away with:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2592/4081637375_18fe20d2d8_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2538/4082477628_4398ce4a5c_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2647/4082501750_a6e043f029_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2543/4084463653_783003d939_b.jpg

[billhercus]

Amur Tigers in the Scottish Highlands no less!

f5.6 1/200 ISO 400

[balian67]

I FINALLY got to use this lens for some race photography. Being banished to the bleachers, this lens comes in great handy when the fences are looming and trying to ruin your shots any chance they get! Here are a couple that I came away with:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2592/4081637375_18fe20d2d8_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2538/4082477628_4398ce4a5c_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2647/4082501750_a6e043f029_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2543/4084463653_783003d939_b.jpg



Great set...

[Goincarcrazy]

Thanks!

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oklahoma_City_Cats-025.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

From this past weekends air show:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2422/4084509459_78f0e4b89f_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3134/4088862262_b78857efc9_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2535/4088862452_72580df950_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2671/4093388015_b22a6fa5aa_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2502/4088863076_3b2456e034_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2694/4088103865_897e225e7a_b.jpg

[zoom_zoom]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Oklahoma_City_Cats-025.jpg


Nice! I can see what he had for lunch! :lol:

[Goincarcrazy]

That is a terrific pic. Forgot to say something about in my post, but spot on! The more I see your pics sydor, the more it makes me want a 1DmkIII (no way I can afford the 1D4) if for no other reason than the focusing capability!

[Candor]

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_1688.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_1520.jpg

http://i233.photobucket.com/albums/ee117/mdavies_01/IMG_1472.jpg

[hodown55]

Candor,

Beautiful Owl shots, those yellow eyes are fantastic! Here is a shot of an Australian Black Cockatoo, that I took yesterday with the new 7D & 100-400L (using a Better Beamer).

Kev

[sandpiper]

I learned the hard way today that the dust pump isn't good for everything.

[cut]

Man, it sucked. Too much sunlight and shadow, and all the good shots have a frowning kid or a frowning adult.

[cut]

Long story short: I've been loving my 100-400, and after about 300 crappy shots today with it, I'm a little despondent. Normally I take pictures I really like with the dust pump

I've seen many complaints about the 100-400 (dust pump, push-pull zoom etc) but this is the first time I have seen anybody blame the weather and the subjects expressions on it before.

If your light was too harsh, that isn't the fault of the lens. You need to move your subjects into the shade, use a diffuser to kill the sun or at least a reflector / fill-in flash to lighten the shadows. Simply using a different lens isn't going to change the contrast of your lighting.

As for your subjects frowning, again how does the lens have anything to do with that? You need to do something to change their expressions, crack jokes, lighten the mood. Time your shots when their expressions are better.

You have a great lens, but it can't change what is happening in front of the camera, that is the photographers job.

[wildland]

I've had this lens (and my 5DII - my first non-FD Canon) for two days now - Love it... here's a couple from the first day walking 'round the back yard...

http://wildlandphotos.smugmug.com/Nature/Birds/MG0198/711053522_NL67Q-XL.jpg
400mm, f/5.6


http://wildlandphotos.smugmug.com/Other/Pastoral/MG0296/711066310_nhHVP-XL.jpg
250mm, f/5

I believe the bird is a flycatcher of some type, but I'm not sure yet... I'll keep looking. Oh, and the horse is my neighbors, not mine (if he were mine I'd be eyeing him with intent to sell - gotta fund glass somehow :))

--josh

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Cats-181.jpg

[peterbj7]

I learned the hard way today that the dust pump isn't good for everything.

I did a "professional" shoot today (meaning, I attempted to do for free what most pros would charge a lot for...photographing a family in blue jeans and white shirts down by a river).

Man, it sucked. Too much sunlight and shadow, and all the good shots have a frowning kid or a frowning adult.

I am so glad I'm not a professional photographer. I'd go nuts.


I knew it was going to be bad when I walked into their house this morning (they're friends and neighbors, and I did the job for free) and I saw a ton of excellent professional photography all over their walls. Pictures of the family.

Then the wife started telling me how bad all the pictures on the wall were. I said, "but the lighting is fantastic. The composition is great. These are excellent photographs."

She'd say things like, "I don't like the way my kid is leaning here, or that shirt has a wrinkle."

Geesh.

Long story short: I've been loving my 100-400, and after about 300 crappy shots today with it, I'm a little despondent. Normally I take pictures I really like with the dust pump, but today I couldn't do anything right, and when I did....the family was frowning.

Dang!


This is so familiar! I've often taken ad-hoc pictures at events which have official photographers, and often my photos have been preferred to the official ones. But that's because I've been able to pick and choose my subject, and have only shown the ones that worked. My hit rate usually isn't bad, but it's nowhere approaching the level needed by an appointed pro.

I went to the Belize Zoo a few days ago, a most unusual zoo that houses only animals rescued in one way or another, or which for whatever reason can't be released into the wild. I got a few pictures of an eagle with my dust pump, but they were all hand-held in poorish light. So most aren't usable and none is good. I got far better results with my G10.

[pixelbasher]

I got a few pictures of an eagle with my dust pump, but they were all hand-held in poorish light. So most aren't usable and none is good. I got far better results with my G10.



Eh? your G10 got you better shots than a 5D with the dust pump?

[Tareq]

Eh? your G10 got you better shots than a 5D with the dust pump?

No surprise here, at least they did a test with G10 against Hasselblad H2 i think, so sure that G10 can be good enough as DSLRs and medium formats nowadays, lol

[Sorarse]

Only had use of the lens for a week, but I think I'll be adding it to the shopping list. Was really pleased with the pics I got from it.

http://www.88qv.com/net/ValentinoSM.jpg

[DragonSpeed]

A mix of birds from a recent trip to the Reifel Bird Sanctuary in Delta BC:

At 400mm with a 50D.

1. A song sparrow taking a break from his meal
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/02e/02e58f6177911a981b6e1346616073c9_110.jpg

2. A Bush Tit enjoying some breakfast
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/15b/15befe1fa99dae04329156e075ee031e_b3e.jpg

3. Female Mallard - coming in for a landing
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/87d/87d35b0357a7dc1e8a74b0f0a0aab38d_d9a.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

Love the shot of the sparrow!

[peterbj7]

I don't know where to post this, but I suppose here is as good as anywhere. I use my dust pump on my 5D in all sorts of light, and have found that it doesn't perform too well in low light unless it's on a tripod. Now, back home in England (I'm in Belize) I still have my A1 with, amongst other lenses, a Tamron SP 70-210. I used to use that a lot indoors with ASA 200 or 400 film and had many publishable results. I don't have any of the results here to post, but I used to take indoor portraits at around 200mm with great results. I find it far harder to get acceptable results with the 100-400. My specific question is, can anyone tell me what the aperture of the 70-210 is? - I've forgotten and don't have it with me to check. My follow up question is - can anyone explain why I used to get good results easily back in film days with the 70-210 at around 200, but using the dust pump at 200 on my FF digital camera I have a far higher failure rate?

[krb]

I don't know where to post this, but I suppose here is as good as anywhere. I use my dust pump on my 5D in all sorts of light, and have found that it doesn't perform too well in low light unless it's on a tripod. Now, back home in England (I'm in Belize) I still have my A1 with, amongst other lenses, a Tamron SP 70-210. I used to use that a lot indoors with ASA 200 or 400 film and had many publishable results. I don't have any of the results here to post, but I used to take indoor portraits at around 200mm with great results. I find it far harder to get acceptable results with the 100-400. My specific question is, can anyone tell me what the aperture of the 70-210 is? - I've forgotten and don't have it with me to check. My follow up question is - can anyone explain why I used to get good results easily back in film days with the 70-210 at around 200, but using the dust pump at 200 on my FF digital camera I have a far higher failure rate?I believe the Tamron 70-210 was available in both f/2.8 and f/3.5 versions. Either way your old lens was faster by more than 1 stop. Plus it was much shorter so any camera motion was less obvious.

[Goincarcrazy]

Plus the weight of the 100-400 might have something to do with a bit more instability.

[Madweasel]

I wouldn't mind betting that you also scrutinize your digital shots far more closely than you ever did your film ones.

[radiohead1984]

OKAY SO..
after weeks of waiting
i finally got this in the mail!

it's kind of intimidating......

it is bigger and heavier than i was expecting.
the main thing that worries me is the attention it would draw to me in public but oh well..

i haven't properly used it yet.... but i will.

[Andy Favors]

I've had it since May. I've only had about 5 ppl mention anything to me. It's always, wow, nice camera. They never say that with the 18-55 IS on. You do get a lot of looks though. I wouldn't worry though, get insurance, and go out and enjoy it.

[keith breazeal]

OKAY SO..
after weeks of waiting
i finally got this in the mail!

it's kind of intimidating......

it is bigger and heavier than i was expecting.
the main thing that worries me is the attention it would draw to me in public but oh well..

i haven't properly used it yet.... but i will.


Yes, it's big and heavy. That was my thoughts until I got a 300L F2.8 IS. I now consider it to be much lighter :lol:

The 100-400 can really produce spectacular results when color, lighting, etc. are good. The quality of the lens cannot be appreciated until you have it on a tripod in live view and a remote shutter release to eliminate mirror and vibration. The AF works quite well in good lighting and the IS works great.

Handheld 1/125th, F5.6 @ 400mm

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/Mallard1.jpg

[aladyforty]

I own the 100-400 and use it primarily for wildlife and I'm wonder if this should be the lens I take to a car racing event this weekend (V8 super cars for any Aussies reading this) I have a 70-200 F4 L IS and I'm debating between the two lenses. My husband thinks I should take the 100-400 mainly for the reach. Any opinions on this lens for this sort of event

[RyanB]

UGH. I"ve been seriously lacking a telephoto and just got a good deal on a 100-400L. Didn't even think before I bought it, but I probably should have... the credit card is screaming at me right now haha. But man, this thing is SHARP at 400mm wide open. Great colors, contrast, everything... agh. It was slightly out of my budget but I still convinced myself to go through heh.

One of my first shots: (less than ideal light today, haven't worked with anything longer than 200mm before so I'm still working on sharpness).

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2618/4117837641_17207b1c90_o.jpg

[vk2gwk]

Nice pic. RyanB but focus is slightly off (or rather DOF is too shallow). I have the same experience with my 100-400mm. On my iPhone I got a nice application "Simple DOF" and I use it all the time now to calculate the DOF at various apertures and focal length.
I estimate the necessary DOF for the subject, then I set the appropriate aperture and if the shutterspeed is too low for the subject I increase the ISO value until I have a workable shutterspeed.
Of course you cannot do this all the time - especially when shooting thing "per chance". So I learned a couple of "main settings" by hart and am able to apply them pretty quickly.

[RyanB]

Yeah, the focus is is sharpest just in front of him, missed it by a hair :( It wasn't light enough to stop down anymore and be able to hand hold. Still learning how to use it, but I love it so far :)

[keith breazeal]

Nice pic. RyanB but focus is slightly off (or rather DOF is too shallow). I have the same experience with my 100-400mm. On my iPhone I got a nice application "Simple DOF" and I use it all the time now to calculate the DOF at various apertures and focal length.
I estimate the necessary DOF for the subject, then I set the appropriate aperture and if the shutterspeed is too low for the subject I increase the ISO value until I have a workable shutterspeed.
Of course you cannot do this all the time - especially when shooting thing "per chance". So I learned a couple of "main settings" by hart and am able to apply them pretty quickly.

My old 40D and new 50Ds have a DOF Preview button just below the Lens Release Button. Don't know about other bodies, but it really helps. Grass and asphalt are fairly easy to see the DOF focus, but critical DOF requires the AV mode to lock it in. Most of my shooting(aviation) requires the TV mode. So... sometimes it's just a crap shoot :rolleyes:

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/ZackatWestoverExtra330.jpg

[vk2gwk]

OK Keith - yes - both my 5D2 and 50D have this button and I use it, but most of the time you cannot really judge the DOF well in the viewfinder. Knowing what the DOF is exactly by using the calculator helps finding the right spot on the object to focus on. At least for me.... :)

[keith breazeal]

OK Keith - yes - both my 5D2 and 50D have this button and I use it, but most of the time you cannot really judge the DOF well in the viewfinder. Knowing what the DOF is exactly by using the calculator helps finding the right spot on the object to focus on. At least for me.... :)

It's OK in nice bright daylight, but otherwise the viewfinder gets pretty dark and gets to be a challenge to find that critical edge. Or use live view. It's a test of will :lol:

[peterbj7]

http://i197.photobucket.com/albums/aa5/KBVP/ZackatWestoverExtra330.jpg

OK, so what happened next?!

[keith breazeal]

It's what they call 3D in the radio control world. Aerobatics and low, low maneuvers...

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2522/3981449041_2446fd2f35_b.jpg

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/SF_Zoo-246.jpg

[FlyingPhotog]

It's what they call 3D in the radio control world. Aerobatics and low, low maneuvers...

I truly don't understand why these folks spend a brazillion dollars to build/own such beautiful scale models and then go out and fly them in anything but a scale fashion...

<Shrug>

[pixelbasher]

I truly don't understand why these folks spend a brazillion dollars to build/own such beautiful scale models and then go out and fly them in anything but a scale fashion...

<Shrug>

Because they can. ;) give it time, full size will be doing this kind of flying one day. I bet there are plenty of aerobatic pilots that are stinging for the day they can prop hang and torque roll along the runway.

I haven't posted here for a while.

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2628/3704078440_dc4a9e0464_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2706/4122030042_70257252ca_o.jpg

[wesjr]

Sydor,

Really nice detail and oh what color.
Thanks for sharing...

Here's a cattle egret posing for me at the St. Augustine's Alligator Farm. Love that look.

Canon EOS- 1D, EF 100- 400 mm f/4.5- 5.6 at 400, 1.4 TC and tripod. Not sure of the exposure.

Enjoy...
____________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

[Sydor25]

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Tigers-167.jpg

[wesjr]

James,

Very nice portrait here. Like the foreground bolder and the look down. Most excellent detail in the fur...
_________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

[wesjr]

James,

Here's one of the captive macaws at St. Augustine's Alligator Farm. He finally calmed down and I got this photo with my Canon EOS-1D, EF 100- 400 f/4.5- 5.6 IS, 1.4 TC and tripod.
____________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

[FlyingPhotog]

Because they can. ;) give it time, full size will be doing this kind of flying one day. I bet there are plenty of aerobatic pilots that are stinging for the day they can prop hang and torque roll along the runway.

Not until their Insurance Companies and Sponsors say OK... :lol:

Nice Shots!

[pixelbasher]

Redbull will prob pick up on it and run with it when it happens, I have wondered how much it costs in insurance to run ANY red bull extreme sport event, and how they even get insurance for some events! :lol:

But IMHO it does get a bit boring after a while when those large scale RC guys simply hover all around the place.

Here's one I caught at my local club a few weeks back that definately isn't hovering!http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2498/3828354579_ab9224da42_o.jpg

[keith breazeal]

That's a great shot- nice pan and super background blur!!!!!

[Goincarcrazy]

Didn't realize the Egrets were already coming in at the Alligator Farm. I assume there will be quite a few more in a couple months. I was at the zoo Friday and saw an Egret that looked like he was getting his breeding plumage already!

Alright, back on subject, here are a couple from said zoo trip:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2690/4123315571_30b6ba23f7_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2501/4124083540_0b6b06c2ff_b.jpg
[/B]

[keith breazeal]

I love the Gorilla shot- nice capture!!!!!!!!!!!

[keith breazeal]

I truly don't understand why these folks spend a brazillion dollars to build/own such beautiful scale models and then go out and fly them in anything but a scale fashion...

<Shrug>

Was flown in scale fashion...

http://www.asb.tv/files/photo/gallery/photos/orig_579_e6070.JPG

[FlyingPhotog]

Was flown in scale fashion...

But apparently not landed so...

Hate to see the really large ones in pieces but as the saying goes in R/C:

"If you ain't breaking 'em .. You ain't flyin' 'em" :(

[aladyforty]

first time Ive used my 100-400 for these sort of shots, usually wildlife

all taken at Barbagello Raceway, Perth western Australia on 21st November 09

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2692/4124304814_e667c04eaa_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2515/4123536405_c9388cd694_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2635/4123536601_774ee5d199_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2579/4124305312_e1abcb9b45_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2684/4124305408_3eb489f377_o.jpg

[wesjr]

Love your Bonobo photo from the Jacksonville Zoo. Was the male harashing him?

Got my cattle egret shot from A.F. this spring...
________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

[Goincarcrazy]

I love the Gorilla shot- nice capture!!!!!!!!!!!

Thanks Keith and Wes!

Love your Bonobo photo from the Jacksonville Zoo. Was the male harashing him?

Got my cattle egret shot from A.F. this spring...
________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

nope. They were all having a lazy day and just laying around.

[wesjr]

I think your Bonobo would make a really nice B & W in my opinion. Would love to see more photos...
_________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL
http://naturesphotographs.com

[Sydor25]

3 shot pano of San Diego:

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/SD_Skyline_4.22_Day-193+198+203_6x18.jpg

[wesjr]

James,

Really like your pano technique. How do you do them?

Thanks for sharing...
________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL
http://naturesphotographs.com
________________
Canon- 1D, Canon 5D Mk 11, Sigma 15- 30 mm DX f/ 3.5- 5.6, Canon 28- 135 mm f/ 3.5- 5.6 IS, Canon 70- 200 mm f/ 4.0 USM, Sigma 180 mm APO HSM DX f/ 3.5 macro, Canon 100- 400 mm f/ 4.5- 5.6 IS, Canon 500 mm f/ 4.0 IS, Canon 550 EX flash, Canon ETs, 1.4 TC.

[Kekumba]

http://cgi.ebay.ca/CANON-EF-100-400mm-f4-5-5-6L-IS-USM-50D-40D-1D-USED_W0QQitemZ300369290254QQcmdZViewItemQQptZCamer a_Lenses?hash=item45ef67a40e

So, so tempted. Just a little hesitant buying used and on ebay, despite Henry's being fantastic. If only they would make it Buy It Now.

[Andy Favors]

still has 4 days, there is no way it'll stay even close to that price.

[pixelbasher]

http://cgi.ebay.ca/CANON-EF-100-400mm-f4-5-5-6L-IS-USM-50D-40D-1D-USED_W0QQitemZ300369290254QQcmdZViewItemQQptZCamer a_Lenses?hash=item45ef67a40e

So, so tempted. Just a little hesitant buying used and on ebay, despite Henry's being fantastic. If only they would make it Buy It Now.

Not sure how it is over where you are, but I looked for a couple of months second hand for one locally and found they were going for only a couple hundred below new price........so I bought new of course.

[Kekumba]

I'm struggling to find one for a good price. Haven't really looked locally, but even on the net. I don't know, did the price go up recently or something because I don't remember them being this expensive. Most of the ones I've found on here don't want to ship to Canada, but that's fine. Figured I'd stick with this auction and see if I could get it for $1300 or so. Probably not likely, but still.

[pixelbasher]

We are very close to par with your $ at the moment and here they are floating around A$ 2000 - 2100 new. I bought mine back in March for A$ 2300, but our dollar was 30% lower then mind you, but I guess it also depends on the yen as well....... and how much Canon feel like making at the time.

Interesting to see how much it eventually sells for. We should be paying far less than they are asking in Aus at the moment in my opinion.

[Andy Favors]

I paid $1360 for mine back in May of this year from B&H. Right now, I just looked, it's $1610. I could sell this one for a profit, :D

[stonyzmom]

Wow......I paid $1200 for mine from a listing on Craigslist in March, 2009. It was the original owner who had only had it for a few months and only took it out to the zoo one time. I can't remember, but I think he said he felt it was too heavy. His loss, my gain.

Here's one from this evening........handheld.

http://img4.imageshack.us/img4/816/292ac.jpg

[Sydor25]

I got mine on Ebay 10/2008 for $1050. Just be patient and the deals will be out there.

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Lions-068.jpg


http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Lions-480.jpg

[Kekumba]

We are very close to par with your $ at the moment and here they are floating around A$ 2000 - 2100 new. I bought mine back in March for A$ 2300, but our dollar was 30% lower then mind you, but I guess it also depends on the yen as well....... and how much Canon feel like making at the time.

Interesting to see how much it eventually sells for. We should be paying far less than they are asking in Aus at the moment in my opinion.

Well, that's kind of what I'm waiting for as well. If the Canadian dollar would just get up to par I'd have quite a few more options than I do now.

[balian67]

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2753/4090057632_14fd806bee.jpg

[Goincarcrazy]

^^ Very nice!

Here are a few more of birds from the zoo. I realized that most of the animals are birds...what a rook! Oh well, at least some are fairly exotic birds. Here's a few:

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2676/4131907777_f293970ea3_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2743/4131907009_b263928955_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2674/4132668840_8b4e8acc79_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2575/4131906307_0026455a0f_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2758/4132668092_c3fc9c7eb8_b.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2590/4126179996_17d974545c_b.jpg

[RyanB]

From the LA Zoo this weekend: (it wasn't bad, but doesn't compare to the SD zoo)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2610/4132567069_40d4f0772e_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2736/4133328820_f0374fcdd0_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2538/4132565917_6dbed27cbd_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2536/4132560761_cfcaffefd8_o.jpg

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2774/4133323828_cb09c9f024_o.jpg

And my favorite (I think he was making fun of us -all the kids were horrified haha)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2537/4132565751_8fb4629df2_o.jpg

[Burnaby]

Well, at least he's clean... :D

[tcc]

Wow, nice samples everyone. It's crazy what this lens is going for these days. Luckily I picked one up used from a local POTN member for a GREAT price ;) and in pristine condition. STill getting used to the pump action tho.

[Sydor25]

Wow, nice samples everyone. It's crazy what this lens is going for these days. Luckily I picked one up used from a local POTN member for a GREAT price ;) and in pristine condition. STill getting used to the pump action tho.

Once you get used to it, I can't imagine not having the push-pull design for this lens.

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Fort_Worth_Cats-288.jpg

[GregSteer]

From the LA Zoo this weekend: (it wasn't bad, but doesn't compare to the SD zoo)

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2538/4132565917_6dbed27cbd_o.jpg



Stunning man. Clone that carrot out and get it printed LARGE on your wall, and send me a copy ! :)

[Madweasel]

Clone that carrot out...
Ha ha! I didn't even notice the carrot first time around :)

[Andy Favors]

Just got my lens back from Canon repair for the 2nd time. I think they got it right this time.......

http://www.andyfavors.com/photos/723931717_vrPHC-L.jpg

[RyanB]

Stunning man. Clone that carrot out and get it printed LARGE on your wall, and send me a copy ! :)

Haha thanks :) Through the mist I wasn't sure if the picture was going to come out all that great, but after some simple PP it popped pretty nicely. I have another picture of him with his carrot that's a bit more humorous, but you're right, it definitely doesn't fit with the mood of this one haha.

[louis_herbert]

Some of my shoot with 5DII

http://images1.fotop.net/albums6/louis_herbert/20090905/IMG_0902.jpg

http://images1.fotop.net/albums6/louis_herbert/20090905/IMG_0950.jpg

http://images1.fotop.net/albums6/louis_herbert/20090905/IMG_1071.jpg

http://images1.fotop.net/albums6/louis_herbert/20090905/IMG_1104.jpg

[vk2gwk]

Nice surf pics....
BTW...
http://tobbe.net.au/images/surf2962.jpg
Is that you....???

[Madweasel]

^ That looks like a Nikon, with the two-piece hood.

[peterbj7]

So what, we're all tolerant and broad-minded here :D