Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM - AKA The Dust Pump [Archive] - Page 38

sharad.medhavi

8th of February 2012 (Wed), 23:24

Please help me identify this beautiful black bird. It is small in size with a long forked tail. I see it around the grass lands near the lake. It perches on small bushes and flies short distances to catch insects (I think so). It is almost vertical when perched on the bush, or on the edge of the wall, and can turn its neck around by almost 180 degrees on either side.
Here are some pictures (all from this useful lens). I am not an expert on bird photography or in using this lens. The 100-400mm L did enable me to take pictures which were earlier not possible using my 70-200mm f/4 IS L with a 1.4x extender.

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-UBC2qp_tWN0/TzM4obc7M-I/AAAAAAAAEXA/lPUtOG596Ew/s640/IMG_7128L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/106500500179072339942/Nature#5706967420023550946

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-zMK557SK9UU/TzM5CSiCnuI/AAAAAAAAEXY/ifBK26afTuI/s640/IMG_7136L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/106500500179072339942/Nature#5706967864305688290

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-UQXY8wO4B_Y/TzM5K7vjzqI/AAAAAAAAEXg/czlzFYhTAE8/s640/IMG_7137L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/106500500179072339942/Nature#5706968012807196322

https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-1vUnrOTbqq0/TyP4tuQO-QI/AAAAAAAAEJI/BjVOdTR_1pc/s640/IMG_6857L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/106500500179072339942/Nature#5706967564939826066

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-U6wFFy1NeW0/TzM5SzD8n-I/AAAAAAAAEXo/qxuHD347BOk/s640/IMG_7142L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/106500500179072339942/Nature#5706968147915743202

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-XFVWq3vZ4Lg/TzM0vg_gShI/AAAAAAAAESA/w_yhOANtO58/s640/IMG_7011L4.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-_yZzQ-DC08w/TzM1BX9Vm_I/AAAAAAAAESQ/YTcoFbS7QKw/s640/IMG_7015L4.jpg

Salmo22

9th of February 2012 (Thu), 08:40

Taken with the 100-400L? Exif shows 70-200/2.8 L II.

My error - I apologize. I've relocated appropriately. Thank you.

Salmo22

9th of February 2012 (Thu), 09:16

Into The Storm

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7203/6846684627_65757692e0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6846684627/)

MATT0404

9th of February 2012 (Thu), 09:50

My error - I apologize. I've relocated appropriately. Thank you.

I'm not offended. It's an excellent shot and very sharp. I was just looking to see what aperture was used and saw f/3.2.

Into The Storm

Another great shot!

BioSci

9th of February 2012 (Thu), 14:22

sharad.medhavi

9th of February 2012 (Thu), 20:50

From this picture it looks like a grackle. YMMV.

Thanks. This was identified as a Drongo (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Drongo)on the BNGBIRDS yahoo group.

robertwsimpson

10th of February 2012 (Fri), 06:43

yeah we don't have those in America.

turkeytamer41

10th of February 2012 (Fri), 15:52

http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/turkeytamer41/IMG_2926.jpg

keith breazeal

10th of February 2012 (Fri), 15:55

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7165/6848544033_9497055c36_b.jpg

woos

11th of February 2012 (Sat), 18:39

Extremely heavy crop:

http://amanathia.zenfolio.com/img/s11/v36/p551839747-5.jpg

Bodo

11th of February 2012 (Sat), 21:22

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6860157979_a9bd2e5c89_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30255836@N00/6860157979/)
IMG_0642.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30255836@N00/6860157979/) by thebodo (http://www.flickr.com/people/30255836@N00/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6860154203_dddea7bff0_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30255836@N00/6860154203/)
IMG_0547.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30255836@N00/6860154203/) by thebodo (http://www.flickr.com/people/30255836@N00/), on Flickr

lhoy

11th of February 2012 (Sat), 21:30

Double-Crested Cormorants at Sunrise
Granger Lake, TX

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7038/6858836127_3233dc424a_b.jpg

keith breazeal

11th of February 2012 (Sat), 22:20

Double-Crested Cormorants at Sunrise
Granger Lake, TX

Very nice! The lack off "off axis internal reflections" is a testament for the lens quality.

lhoy

12th of February 2012 (Sun), 14:27

Thanks Keith!

T2i4me

12th of February 2012 (Sun), 20:30

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac112/Hotrodes/Animals/BackBayGull.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac112/Hotrodes/Animals/Egretwithfish.jpg

C Scott IV

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 18:03

This thread has so many great examples. Thanks to all that have posted. This will probably be my next lens, in a year or two. I get nice results from the 28-300L for most situations but just can't seem to get close enough for birds in flight.

BenjaminMH

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 19:01

Canon EF 100-400 f/4-5.6L IS (II) is on the way! (http://canontweets.com/2011/11/canon-ef-100-400-f4-5-6l-is-ii-is-on-the-way/)

Can't wait...

It looks great, and I've been planning on getting a 100-400, but $2800 is a pretty hefty price tag!

jwcdds

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 19:05

I miss the push-pull already. :(

Thing better perform as well as the 70-200/2.8II. Else I aint gonna cough up $2800 for it.

peterbj7

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 21:34

$2800 for the 100-400? Where do you get that from?

BenjaminMH

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 21:35

$2800 for the 100-400? Where do you get that from?

It's the rumored mk II version

Leffe67

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 21:36

$2800 for the 100-400? Where do you get that from?

I believe that's the rumored price of the MkII version of this lens, rumored to be released this year. Or so rumor says.

MATT0404

13th of February 2012 (Mon), 22:55

From today:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7198/6871181243_f3936fe859_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/matt0404/6871181243/)
Black Capped Posing (http://www.flickr.com/photos/matt0404/6871181243/) by mkrepp (http://www.flickr.com/people/matt0404/), on Flickr

After a brief stint with a 400/5.6L, I'm back to a 100-400L. :)

T2i4me

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 09:14

I hope the new one is $3K then ours will not depreciate! I'm a big push-pull fan so I would keep this version just for that reason.

robertwsimpson

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 09:18

new one?

RAW-Shooter

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 11:16

The 200-400 f/4 will be released prior to any potential 100-400 MKII. With a mind boggling price tag though.

T2i4me

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 11:38

new one?

Just going by the Canon Rumors site indicating a potential 100-400 upgrade that will be colse to $3K. No issue for me though as I love my old trusty 100-400!

nordlysBW

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 12:02

Well, rumour or not, I'm just going to go on enjoying taking pics with the one I have. I'll brood over a newcomer (1)when it's really there, (2) if mine goes bust beyond repair, (3) if/when I need it to make a difference to my pics (4) once the early adopter syndrome fades away and the price reaches realistic levels (5) if the heralded 200-400mm remains unaffordable or does not deliver as brilliantly as expected.

So, again, in the meantime I'll shoot to my heart's content and hope you'll all relax and go that same path. ;)

robertwsimpson

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 14:22

I'm saving up for a 500mm f/4

BenjaminMH

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 15:49

I'm saving up for a 500mm f/4

That's my dream lens :D

robertwsimpson

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 15:51

well, in addition to having the money, I'm also going to have to convince my wife that I need it. that will be the bigger challenge.

Leftcoast_Mike

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 17:33

well, in addition to having the money, I'm also going to have to convince my wife that I need it. that will be the bigger challenge.

I'm actually selling off my racecar in pieces so I can get one....in addition to a couple of other things.

T2i4me

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 21:59

I sold my race car for a kitchen remodel, I'd rather have the 500mm....heck I want the race car back!

Lionel

14th of February 2012 (Tue), 22:01

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Chicago_7.19.11-0905_8x10.jpg

WOW.............

woos

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 01:10

I can't imagine bothering to change to a new version of this lens, honestly. It's extremely sharp at 400mm, as good as the 5.6 prime I'd say. AF with the limiter is fast. The only downside to it is the IS sucks, but I'd certainly not pay more than a grand to upgrade that, that's for sure! Maybe if the new one was $1999 or something and I could sell the old one for $1250 or something, but that's probably about the limit of what I'd even consider, there. If Canon releases a version two of this for 3k, we can all have a good laugh at them being off their rocker, imho, lol.

Obligatory duck pic:
http://amanathia.zenfolio.com/img/s10/v2/p680973872-5.jpg

robertwsimpson

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 06:43

hm interesting. I try my hardest not to shoot at f/5.6, because I don't think it's that sharp, but I'm very happy with the IS. funny... different strokes for different folks I guess.

I'd buy a new version if it was sharp wide open... maybe.

stormjury

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 10:39

jase1125

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 12:39

1DmkIV - @400mm

http://www.photographicstorm.com/Sports/Motorsport/Lakeside-Raceway-Time-Attack/i-9nGXZTx/1/XL/A62V0340-XL.jpg

Also good for portraits - 1DmkIV - @400mm
http://www.photographicstorm.com/photos/i-fsB3xZ5/0/XL/i-fsB3xZ5-XL.jpg

Love the last picture. However, the white balance looks a bit off to me. Could be just my monitor though.

nikmar08

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 12:50

^^ I was about to mention exact that Jason. A picture-perfect moment captured otherwise.

MATT0404

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 12:51

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7062/6881313885_dc46b622dc_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/matt0404/6881313885/)
Sing Your Heart Out (http://www.flickr.com/photos/matt0404/6881313885/) by mkrepp (http://www.flickr.com/people/matt0404/), on Flickr

bad69maro

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 14:48

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7044/6882754259_0909ff3c42_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/67948968@N07/6882754259/)
Eagle (http://www.flickr.com/photos/67948968@N07/6882754259/) by 1bad69maro (http://www.flickr.com/people/67948968@N07/), on Flickr

taken @ 400mm I was happy with the sharpness

stormjury

15th of February 2012 (Wed), 22:34

^^ I was about to mention exact that Jason. A picture-perfect moment captured otherwise.

It is a little off I agree but when I got it printed it look so much nicer with this tone and temp than when i set it to suit being viewed on my Ezio.

robertwsimpson

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 06:34

I ordered a 2x tc to use with this lens.... excitedddddd!!!!

stormjury

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 06:55

I've been wanting to try a 2x on it. Just need the budget to afford one hehehe

robertwsimpson

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 07:00

$200 for the Kenko one. not that bad. I'll post some examples.

stormjury

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 08:07

wow $200 is a great price, but like all sharpness is the question

stormjury

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 08:16

1DmkIV @300mm

http://www.photographicstorm.com/Sports/Kayak-Fishing/Kayak-Fishing-Tournament-Gold/i-pRZWjbs/3/XL/IMG3570-XL.jpg

robertwsimpson

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 08:17

this made me buy the kenko immediately

http://forums.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1029&message=40608183

stormjury

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 09:10

WOW!

Leftcoast_Mike

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 10:37

I've noticed alot of the really good images from this lens are coming from 1D/5D level cameras

keith breazeal

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 11:13

I've noticed alot of the really good images from this lens are coming from 1D/5D level cameras

Full frame sensors will generally be better for overall quality. Metering systems come in #2. However... the really good pictures are a result of good lighting, the camera settings,(not exposure) and the subject's framing. Bottom line, it's the photographer. The camera only assists ;) But I still want to upgrade to full frame, but only because they are better in low light and have lower iso noises.

Leftcoast_Mike

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 11:19

Full frame sensors will generally be better for overall quality. Metering systems come in #2. However... the really good pictures are a result of good lighting, the camera settings,(not exposure) and the subject's framing. Bottom line, it's the photographer. The camera only assists ;) But I still want to upgrade to full frame, but only because they are better in low light and have lower iso noises.

I'm fully aware that the photographer is behind the camera producing those shot but there's still a difference in images coming off crop vs ff :D

However, I'm still looking at the 7D lol.

keith breazeal

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 11:26

I'm fully aware that the photographer is behind the camera producing those shot but there's still a difference in images coming off crop vs ff :D

However, I'm still looking at the 7D lol.

My son's college tuition is killing my full frame budget.

Leftcoast_Mike

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 11:34

My son's college tuition is killing my full frame budget.

I've got nothing on that, Keith. Definitely a great investment though :) I just decided to get out of racing and sell my car to fund my photography which has taken over as my biggest interest after flying. I'll take my camera to the track and get shots of my friends though lol.

I'd like to see some pics using 2x tc's. everytime I mention adding one of those to my 100-400 I get a finger wagged in my face :lol:

keith breazeal

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 12:16

I've got nothing on that, Keith. Definitely a great investment though :) I just decided to get out of racing and sell my car to fund my photography which has taken over as my biggest interest after flying. I'll take my camera to the track and get shots of my friends though lol.

I'd like to see some pics using 2x tc's. everytime I mention adding one of those to my 100-400 I get a finger wagged in my face :lol:

You may loose your auto focus. The loss of 2 f stops will be fatal for any high speed action work. I tried my 1.4x on it and wasn't happy with the metering limitations. That was even with perfect lighting conditions. You may get center/spot focus OK, but that may not be good enough.

robertwsimpson

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 16:48

I thought these two were pretty good... taken with my 50d

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6538064811_7eef23101f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6538064811/)
Lions (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6538064811/) by robertwsimpson (http://www.flickr.com/people/40483547@N07/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6526375739_76ec84463a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6526375739/)
Lion (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6526375739/) by robertwsimpson (http://www.flickr.com/people/40483547@N07/), on Flickr

in fact, the second one is framed and hanging in my house.

T2i4me

16th of February 2012 (Thu), 17:48

I thought these two were pretty good... taken with my 50d

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6526375739_76ec84463a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6526375739/)
Lion (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6526375739/) by robertwsimpson (http://www.flickr.com/people/40483547@N07/), on Flickr

in fact, the second one is framed and hanging in my house.

Amazing expression, nice stuff!

stormjury

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 00:30

Yes full frame does give a higher quality image but this GORGEOUS lion image just goes to show that a mid range camera is just as capable, in fact I know a lot of Pro's using 50D and 7D cameras in their kit with very nice results.

Leftcoast_Mike

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 00:46

xpfloyd

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 08:56

stormjury

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 09:24

i look forward to seeing the photos when your back :)

robertwsimpson

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 09:25

you'll love it. What crop sensors lack in IQ, they make up for in the extra reach and cropability.

T2i4me

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 10:37

The way I understand it the 7D and the 100-400 are the ticket for animal/bird and sports photography. The full framers shine in the landscape arena.

I was out shooting some shore birds last week and every person I saw with a Canon had a 100-400 and crop body. I imagine cost has something to do with it as well. I guess if you can afford a FF body the $3K and higher lenses are no biggie.

nikmar08

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 10:53

The way I understand it the 7D and the 100-400 are the ticket for animal/bird and sports photography.

I second that. The 400 5.6 or 300 4 + 1.4x TC are other options but I like the 100-400 better for its IS and zoom flexibility. Well if you are on a budget there are other options but then being on a budget is so relative... for those who can afford the big boys like 500 f/4 and such, even the 100-400 could as well be a budget lens.

The full framers shine in the landscape arena.

I'd say that and portraits as well. Not saying you cannot make good ones with a crop body but having recently bought a 5D II, doing portraits with it just seems so much better. Again just my 2 cents.

robertwsimpson

17th of February 2012 (Fri), 10:53

1d is the ticket for all photography.

just FYI, the canon EFS 10-22mm multiplied by the 1.6x crop factor equates to a 16-35mm lens on a full frame camera. interesting, no?

you can get the same field of view on crop cameras as you can full frame and vise versa... 1.4TC and 2xTC work way better IQwise on a larger sensor, so you can still get the reach.

bottom line is it doesn't matter what camera you have, you can make it work for whatever you want to shoot.

Nick T

19th of February 2012 (Sun), 10:06

Just got this lens on Friday.
Couple of shots from the first outing...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6902730973_1dae1c1066_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodneytrotter/6902730973/)
50/365 - Long Tailed Tit (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodneytrotter/6902730973/) by Nick Tsiatinis (http://www.flickr.com/people/rodneytrotter/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7206/6902730089_fc135c8a7b_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodneytrotter/6902730089/)
Swan Lake 2 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/rodneytrotter/6902730089/) by Nick Tsiatinis (http://www.flickr.com/people/rodneytrotter/), on Flickr

:)

woog17

19th of February 2012 (Sun), 11:56

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7058/6903900887_a31886f78f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/danwoolgar/6903900887/)
awwww (http://www.flickr.com/photos/danwoolgar/6903900887/) by Dan Woolgar (http://www.flickr.com/people/danwoolgar/), on Flickr

woos

20th of February 2012 (Mon), 00:32

One of the lowest quality pics I've posted, I think..but processed and uploaded it for completeness' sake, lol:

http://amanathia.zenfolio.com/img/s11/v36/p712395370-6.jpg

MOD NOTE: Longest side max 1024 pixels, please.

robertwsimpson

21st of February 2012 (Tue), 12:55

100-400 + kenko 2x + 1dIII

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7197/6917559299_cc208d2c6c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6917559299/)
Jet at 800 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/40483547@N07/6917559299/) by robertwsimpson (http://www.flickr.com/people/40483547@N07/), on Flickr

not too horrible.

Leftcoast_Mike

21st of February 2012 (Tue), 18:52

busting through some crazy fog. shot with a 50D

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6820511851_c5c66591fc_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/70270395@N06/6820511851/)
IMG_5004_s (http://www.flickr.com/photos/70270395@N06/6820511851/) by YellowDrumProductions (http://www.flickr.com/people/70270395@N06/), on Flickr

brindog

23rd of February 2012 (Thu), 17:40

I better post some pic's. This tread is what finalised my decision to purchase this lens.
A Few from Rally Australia 2011.

http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh244/Brindogg/Coffs%20Harbour%20Trip%202011/wrc_cit.jpg
210mm f/5 @ 1/320
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh244/Brindogg/Coffs%20Harbour%20Trip%202011/wrc_cit_purp.jpg
210mm f/6.5 @ 1/400
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh244/Brindogg/Coffs%20Harbour%20Trip%202011/ford_arc.jpg
275mm f/5.6 @ 1/320
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh244/Brindogg/Coffs%20Harbour%20Trip%202011/blur.jpg
http://i258.photobucket.com/albums/hh244/Brindogg/Coffs%20Harbour%20Trip%202011/arc_ford.jpg
275mm f5.6 @ 1/320
No photoshop just downsized. Camera Body 7d.
Loving this lens. :D

watt100

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 16:47

Lacrosse

XSi (450D)
100-400
400mm -- cropped 50% !

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6783106270_56fe52fdf4_z.jpg

Salmo22

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 17:24

T-45C Goshawk

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6927356515_991c0d8954_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6927356515/)

Goshawk Driver's Ed

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6927644787_a0d267693a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6927644787/)

Spirit Airlines

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7200/6781120390_70fe0d3857_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6781120390/)

Leftcoast_Mike

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 17:28

really Jeff? that gives me more hope lol

Salmo22

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 17:55

really Jeff? that gives me more hope lol

I hear you Mike. On more than one occasion, I've considered selling my 100-400. I've been spoiled by my 70-200 f/2.8L IS II USM and keep expecting the 100-400 to perform with the same aplomb - won't happen. In my experience, I get the best IQ out of this lens when I pay attention to achieving proper exposure. Other/faster lenses can make me lazy and I am happy to let them make up for my mistakes. The 100-400 is not as forgiving and requires attention to detail. When I do my part, this lens does very well. Jay has some images from his 100-400 that will knock your eyes out. Of course, Jay is also a savant when it comes to dialing exposures for particular situations.

Keep working at your relationship with the 100-400 and it will begin to pay dividends.

Leftcoast_Mike

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 18:00

I hear you Mike. On more than one occasion, I've considered selling my 100-400. I've been spoiled by my 70-200 f/2.8L IS II USM and keep expecting the 100-400 to perform with the same aplomb - won't happen. In my experience, I get the best IQ out of this lens when I pay attention to achieving proper exposure. Other/faster lenses can make me lazy and I am happy to let them make up for my mistakes. The 100-400 is not as forgiving and requires attention to detail. When I do my part, this lens does very well. Jay has some images from his 100-400 that will knock your eyes out. Of course, Jay is also a savant when it comes to dialing exposures for particular situations.

Keep working at your relationship with the 100-400 and it will begin to pay dividends.

Thanks Jeff, I will. Last summer I got tons of use out of the lens but I still think I killed my results by not fully understanding ISO and exposure...particularly where my 50D is concerned. I'm anxious for this season and getting out to all the upcoming shows. I'm also shopping for that same 70-200 f/2.8 and a 7D body.

moltengold

25th of February 2012 (Sat), 18:12

welcome back Jeff
nice photos from the 400 L
i remeber all your photos from the 100-400 they are great too

xpfloyd

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 03:00

xpfloyd

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 03:02

Meant to say I've bought a red pod bean bag and will be shooting from a stationary vehicle so hopefully that will help

peterbj7

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 09:31

I have to say I find it very hard to stay still enough when shooting at 400mm

Unless you really are struggling with very low light (what ISO is the camera set to?) I find that hard to believe. I can stand on the end of a rickety wooden dock here in Belize in a gusting wind and take sharp pictures at 400mm of kids sailing, using identical body/lens. A lot of it is how you hold the camera; I found it much easier when using a battery grip, which is now a permanent fixture on my 7D. With the grip it's easier to brace the body against your face and the heel of your right hand.

You'll need high shutter speeds anyway because your subjects may be moving, assuming you won't just be taking sleeping lions! And you should rehearse your panning technique.

Eagle

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 09:41

........ I'm just hoping that with the African sun ill be able to shoot at faster speeds than I could yesterday (1/80) or else ill be coming back with very few keepers. I'm actually a bit worried about the whole situation now.

Increase your ISO

Headsick

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 09:47

turkeytamer41

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 12:29

http://i938.photobucket.com/albums/ad227/turkeytamer41/IMG_6169.jpg

jhayesvw

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 21:09

Here are a few of mine from the other day. I posted them in the bird forum, but they are fitting for this thread too.
my 100-400 almost never leaves my 60d. its a very capable lens for sure. the eagle is a massive crop. it was about 50ft up a pole and I was across a 5 lane road from it. So it was about 80 feet from me. as was the Kestrel. the only close shot was the cormorant.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7187/6778675044_5cba9c5cfb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6778675044/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6778674168_e5357b1909_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6778674168/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6924791747_c7e668899a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6924791747/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7036/6924791093_df330c7161_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6924791093/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7204/6778672162_34ea431e35_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6778672162/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7177/6778671760_ce61cd3702_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6778671760/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6924788699_4257a69ef2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jhayesvw/6924788699/)

jhayesvw

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 21:13

Had a practice with them yesterday and I have to say I find it very hard to stay still enough when shooting at 400mm. I'm just hoping that with the African sun ill be able to shoot at faster speeds than I could yesterday (1/80) or else ill be coming back with very few keepers.

As others have said, increase the ISO. I shoot wildlife with this lens between 800 and 1600 ISO pretty regularly, and get the shutter between 1/500 and 1/2000 depending on conditions.

exactly right. I run manual mode and fluctuate between 1/500th and 1/2000th depending on light.
try to stay around f7.1 to keep your depth of field large enough to get much of your subject in focus.
vary your ISO to deal with the light.

remember, its better to have a little noise (if any really) than to get a worthless blurry picture.
you'll love this lens for your safari. go out and practice with your new settings!

Sydor25

26th of February 2012 (Sun), 23:24

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Los_Angeles_2.22.12-337.jpg

T2i4me

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 00:18

^ Cool shot!

T2i4me

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 00:19

T-45C Goshawk

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7041/6927644787_a0d267693a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6927644787/)

Sweet!

pixelbasher

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 03:07

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6934454855_5a3cbc20b4_b.jpg

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7181/6934453921_59d3223bf7_b.jpg

DragonSpeed

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 12:02

Well, as I mentioned before in this thread I bought the 7D and 100-400 for a safari I'm going on in Tanzania in April (with the plan of selling both on my return). Had a practice with them yesterday and I have to say I find it very hard to stay still enough when shooting at 400mm. I'm just hoping that with the African sun ill be able to shoot at faster speeds than I could yesterday (1/80) or else ill be coming back with very few keepers. I'm actually a bit worried about the whole situation now.

A few of mine...

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1130119
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=1111684
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=726821

Useful discussion:
http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=825990

The 100-400 is the GO-TO lens for safari!
They were shot with the 50D, but all with the 100-400.
(I actually miss my 50D - I like it's low light better than the 7D)

Almost every picture in this flickr set were shot with the 100-400 and 50D:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonspeed/sets/72157621906615382/

DragonSpeed

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 12:19

Looking over some old shots...

About a year ago, I had a chance to go up Pike’s Peak in Colorado (DROVE UP). It was beautiful. At mile 13 of 16 they had the road closed due to the high snow on the road still. Mile 13 had us up at 12,500 feet! I could handle a slow walk up there, but much else resulted in some serious gasping. Yikes!

On the road on the way up, we ran across the cutest little fox that seemed to possibly be too tame for his own good… Here are a few shots of the critter:

Shot with Canon 7D and the 100-400L
1)
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/24d/24dd5df434fefd11f6f4271c55e50cb2.jpg

2)
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/562/5628de483c658c11040723437cb21f2a.jpg

3)
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/fcb/fcb91f2ae1b6908893d58b122a11ed32.jpg

4)
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/52a/52a67e1d4b172afa31d00dc381ceed72.jpg

5)
http://www.fotothing.com/photos/aea/aea9356f12bc17c459af44383e121ec3.jpg

xpfloyd

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 14:46

I find that hard to believe.

Well im not lying:D. Im not saying it cant be done im saying im having trouble with it (due to bad technique). This is the longest lens (physically and focally) that I have owned and its also the heaviest so im having issues steadying the extra weight and length.

Increase your ISO

As others have said, increase the ISO. I shoot wildlife with this lens between 800 and 1600 ISO pretty regularly, and get the shutter between 1/500 and 1/2000 depending on conditions.

exactly right. I run manual mode and fluctuate between 1/500th and 1/2000th depending on light.
try to stay around f7.1 to keep your depth of field large enough to get much of your subject in focus. vary your ISO to deal with the light.

remember, its better to have a little noise (if any really) than to get a worthless blurry picture.
you'll love this lens for your safari. go out and practice with your new settings!

Sorry I should have mentioned I was set at ISO100 the other day when I was giving the lens a go, it was also a gloomy day so the light was poor. Thats why I was at 1/80th. Since im also new to the 7D I wasnt really sure how far I could push the ISO before introducing noticable noise.

Ill increase the ISO and get some more practice in. For the users here using the 7D/100-400 combo how far do you raise the ISO normally?

xpfloyd

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 14:47

Dragonspeed - sweet shots!! Thanks for the links

vipergts831

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 14:59

Saw a post in regards to a lot of the really good images coming from this lens are on a 5D/1D series body.

Here are a couple i have taken with this great lens on a 7D:

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5129/5350289211_098fa81710_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prodigy83/5350289211/)
_MG_7105-Edit.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prodigy83/5350289211/) by Prodigy83 (http://www.flickr.com/people/prodigy83/), on Flickr

In terms of ISO? Handheld in doors in dim lighting ISO 3200

http://farm6.staticflickr.com/5241/5350290489_60dec2d251_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prodigy83/5350290489/)
_MG_7157-Edit.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/prodigy83/5350290489/) by Prodigy83 (http://www.flickr.com/people/prodigy83/), on Flickr

xpfloyd

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 15:09

2 quality shots viper! and thanks for the ISO info.

vipergts831

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 15:12

No problem Eddie. I try not to go up to 3200 but some times you cant avoid it. The good thing is that 7D files can clean up well in post processing.

Headsick

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 15:29

I typically don't go past 1600 on my 50D with the 100-400, but from what I understand, the 7D handles high ISO a tad better than the 50D.

DragonSpeed

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 16:48

I typically don't go past 1600 on my 50D with the 100-400, but from what I understand, the 7D handles high ISO a tad better than the 50D.

ISO6400 on the 50D with the 100-400:

http://farm4.staticflickr.com/3596/3775349053_d881880b96_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonspeed/3775349053/)
Leopard (http://www.flickr.com/photos/dragonspeed/3775349053/) by DragonSpeed (http://www.flickr.com/people/dragonspeed/), on Flickr

nikmar08

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 16:57

Eddie - I am relatively new to the long telephoto club too given how long some others I know on this forum have been. I have experimented with both the 400 5.6 and the 100-400 and I second every single bit of what others have said about staying on the higher side of shutter speeds (even at the cost of a little noise if you must up the ISO). That said, my experience with the 7D tells me not to go beyond ISO 1600 but if you must, you should. The other thing you can do especially when shooting at f/5.6 is pulling back the FL a tad bit, may be to 380-390.

pixelbasher

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 17:03

That is a nice shot, but man that background......That's why like headsick, I hate going past 1600 on my 50D. What was the shutter speed on that shot btw?

DragonSpeed

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 17:30

That is a nice shot, but man that background......That's why like headsick, I hate going past 1600 on my 50D. What was the shutter speed on that shot btw?

CameraCanon EOS 50D (http://www.flickr.com/cameras/canon/eos_50d/)
Exposure 0.003 sec (1/400)
Aperture f/6.3
Focal Length 400 mm
ISO Speed 6400
Exposure Bias +1/3 EV

shot at 0650 - pretty much at sunrise.

Theo551

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 17:55

Nice pics!! I would love to be able to afford this lens. Sometimes I think to myself the heck with the electric and rent, but I can't do that. Oh well, it is what it is.

jhayesvw

27th of February 2012 (Mon), 22:42

Nice pics!! I would love to be able to afford this lens. Sometimes I think to myself the heck with the electric and rent, but I can't do that. Oh well, it is what it is.

sell your big sigma.

as for ISO, the 60d is very similar to the 7d in regards to ISO handling.
I try like crazy to keep my ISO at 1600 or below. However, if needed I would bring it up to 3200. Perhaps even 6400 to get the shot.

I would definitely bump my ISO up before I dropped my SS down to 1/80th at 400mm.
I almost never go below 1/250th (even then I get soft images to me)

xpfloyd

28th of February 2012 (Tue), 00:47

Thanks again for the advice everyone. I've got 6 weeks till I go so ill get practicing with it

Sydor25

28th of February 2012 (Tue), 00:59

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/LAZ_Tigers_2.22.12-046_10x20.jpg

Goincarcrazy

28th of February 2012 (Tue), 09:01

^^Nice Tigers!

A Willet from the beach the other day:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7057/6934074131_8ffa8091a1_b.jpg

DelAllenGreenwood

28th of February 2012 (Tue), 15:35

Little bigger than the average boat you see around here. :wink:

http://delallen.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v44/p15177258-5.jpg

garys1

28th of February 2012 (Tue), 18:26

With 1.4 TC...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7060/6939693807_957bfd4132_b.jpg

Sydor25

1st of March 2012 (Thu), 23:55

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Whale_Watching_2.21.12-487.jpg

MPCman

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 02:22

Is that a rock or a whale? :D

DelAllenGreenwood

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 03:44

Looks like a whale. What a great shot. All I have is pics of their backs!

sharad.medhavi

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 06:14

Some more pictures of the Drongo

https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/-r7JYe5CvMo0/T0ZYw_MbgcI/AAAAAAAAElE/WE5MJpd0rgA/s720/IMG_7300L4.jpg (https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/KcpmqBhtfqjlfXXyk0yLCNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=d irectlink)

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-24vX0OyOfiM/T0ZYa1RNO5I/AAAAAAAAEk8/coAru2LQOVo/s720/IMG_7294L4.jpg

https://lh6.googleusercontent.com/-5HN6WEWLEYc/T0ZYPYjGN-I/AAAAAAAAEk4/nq-8SOWxUWM/s720/IMG_7290L4.jpg

https://lh3.googleusercontent.com/-suhZLgJi_Gk/T0ZX4pLGAKI/AAAAAAAAEkw/C60W9azlNJ4/s720/IMG_7287L4.jpg (https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/k4HXpBwTlx0ZnQlPzw4tWNMTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=d irectlink)

RAW-Shooter

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 06:38

Is that a rock or a whale? :D

Looks like a whale. What a great shot. All I have is pics of their backs!

^^^ +1.
Whales rock!

Sydor25

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 09:53

Is that a rock or a whale? :D

It's a gray whale off the coast of Dana Point, CA. :)

It was playing with Dolphins and Sea lions, it kept swimming on its back so that it could look under water. It never showed it's fluke, but he would rise out of the water and sit there for pictures. :)

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Whale_Watching_2.21.12-433_10x20.jpg

T2i4me

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 10:46

^ very cool I have not got out to see the whales yet, they are magnificent creatures. Last year we saw a pod of killer whales and one huge blue whale off Dana.

nikmar08

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 11:56

The impression that my mind carries of whales is of wonderful and beautiful creatures as shown on channels like Nat Geo. This may sound dumb but never thought they actually look like that.... yikes, if I had all that salt deposit around my nose and mouth, I would die of scratching myself. :D

DelAllenGreenwood

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 14:55

We followed this whale all afternoon and this was the best shot I got.
http://delallen.zenfolio.com/img/s11/v35/p441667804-4.jpg

Had a blast watchin these guys
http://delallen.zenfolio.com/img/s11/v31/p904980420-4.jpg

I think the Navy was doing a little whale watching also
http://delallen.zenfolio.com/img/s3/v42/p638390398-4.jpg

Sydor25

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 16:34

Yeah, Dolphins are awesome to watch. They look like they are having so much fun in the water.

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Whale_Watching_2.21.12-118.jpg

DelAllenGreenwood

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 17:57

Yeah, Dolphins are awesome to watch. They look like they are having so much fun in the water.

Another great capture! Well done!

Salmo22

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 21:21

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6801841732_fe09a5ed49_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jeffwelker/6801841732/)

T2i4me

2nd of March 2012 (Fri), 21:57

^ Now that is some horsepower! Always enjoy your work.

botw

4th of March 2012 (Sun), 09:30

First moon shot:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7191/6950916375_e9235b2a3f_b.jpg

71sbeetle

4th of March 2012 (Sun), 12:18

Chump Car at Palm Beach International Raceway, 03 March 2012:

01-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7184/6805044442_4fdf7e428c_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044442/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 002 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044442/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

02-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7201/6805044652_47a614d803_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044652/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 004 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044652/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

03-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7197/6805044704_360006ab0f_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044704/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 005 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805044704/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

04-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7068/6951158417_fc58eb4b40_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951158417/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 006 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951158417/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

05-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7207/6951158743_b70c36d417_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951158743/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 010 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951158743/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

06-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7197/6805045358_035729bc78_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805045358/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 013 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6805045358/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

07-
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7208/6951159205_2d5c62ed29_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951159205/)
JBBugs Chump Cars PBIR March 03rd 2012 015 (http://www.flickr.com/photos/71sbeetle/6951159205/) by 71sbeetle (http://www.flickr.com/people/71sbeetle/), on Flickr

jwcdds

4th of March 2012 (Sun), 16:09

http://julianchen.smugmug.com/Photography/Astrophotography/i-98NQSGR/0/XL/20120303-Canon-EOS-7D-IMG5375-XL.jpg

stormjury

4th of March 2012 (Sun), 21:12

Shots from last years Lunar Eclipse

http://www.photographicstorm.com/Landscapes/Lunar-Eclipse/201012217276-copy/1134290208_97f2h-L.jpghttp://www.photographicstorm.com/Landscapes/Lunar-Eclipse/2103114332/1224802957_VvUkg-L.jpg

nikmar08

4th of March 2012 (Sun), 23:41

Shots from last years Lunar Eclipse

You have some serious issues with your computer's processor :D:D.

Nice shot, composite I guess?

stormjury

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 06:46

It's 2 separate shots just didn't space the apart when I posted them lol.

What makes you say I have issues? Curious. (if it's the red tone, that the moons colour during the eclipse) :)

nikmar08

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 09:03

Oh nothing wrong with the shot. I only meant to poke fun saying Issues because it took your computer so long to do the processing... since last year :D

T2i4me

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 13:24

A few from the beach.

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac112/Hotrodes/People/3-4-12Isitsummer.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac112/Hotrodes/People/3-4-12Iseveryonelooking.jpg

http://i891.photobucket.com/albums/ac112/Hotrodes/People/3-4-12performer.jpg

h14nha

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 13:24

I haven't used the zoom much for the last year, took it with me last week as it was lightweight to carry..........

M.Mobin

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 14:26

http://m-mobin.com/images/20120306004920_img_9865.jpg

Greater Spotted Eagles

RAW-Shooter

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 16:08

A few from the beach.

Second shot...with the 100-400? You must have used a really tall ladder...

DelAllenGreenwood

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 16:18

Second shot...with the 100-400? You must have used a really tall ladder...

I first thought that my lens must be defective because I could never get that close with it. :confused:

T2i4me

5th of March 2012 (Mon), 16:31

Second shot...with the 100-400? You must have used a really tall ladder...

Yes 100-400mm from a helicopter....:)

Actually from the pier.

sharad.medhavi

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 03:37

Yes 100-400mm from a helicopter....:)

Actually from the pier.

Did they realize what you were upto :)

---------------
Does any one know why the pictures from picasa get stretched more than the original when posted on this forum, and start looking unsharp?
Check out this picture (using the dust pump) and click on the link below:
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0ApTagpqfCo/T0ZZkQqMa1I/AAAAAAAAElc/uH9yVuhfOqA/s720/IMG_7348L4.jpg
https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/-0ApTagpqfCo/T0ZZkQqMa1I/AAAAAAAAElc/uH9yVuhfOqA/s720/IMG_7348L4.jpg
https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/VGZLheMhEDliZbEj11YLV9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=d irectlink

DelAllenGreenwood

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 03:48

Probably not with a 100-400. I doubt they even knew he was there!

Candersson

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 04:03

Yes 100-400mm from a helicopter....:)

Actually from the pier.

Candid photography eh!?
Say no more... Say no more...

:lol::lol:
(sorry just couldn't help dragging Monty Python into this)
Great shots!

T2i4me

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 10:07

Those girls were "on display" and were loving the attention, believe me I was not the only one taking photos. That area of the beach is known for girls to hang out and show off so to speak, they are trying to attract the surfers, it's actually quite entertaining to watch.

It's impossible to hide with a 100-400mm, the better option is one of those super zoom SX40's nobody would ever be suspect of that.

stormjury

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 17:48

Oh nothing wrong with the shot. I only meant to poke fun saying Issues because it took your computer so long to do the processing... since last year :D

hahaha yes true.
Going back and organising some old back up hard drives, amazing what you find doing it lol

Eagle

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 19:31

Does any one know why the pictures from picasa get stretched more than the original when posted on this forum, and start looking unsharp?
Check out this picture (using the dust pump) and click on the link below:

https://picasaweb.google.com/lh/photo/VGZLheMhEDliZbEj11YLV9MTjNZETYmyPJy0liipFm0?feat=d irectlink

I'm not seeing the stretching that your referring to???

ian_socool

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 19:51

http://sydor25.com/Pictures/Los_Angeles_2.22.12-337.jpg

I am on my phone, so I am not sure I am seeing this right, but this looks OMG!

Leftcoast_Mike

6th of March 2012 (Tue), 21:45

I am on my phone, so I am not sure I am seeing this right, but this looks OMG!

it's definitely that.

pixelbasher

7th of March 2012 (Wed), 03:07

Those girls were "on display" and were loving the attention, believe me I was not the only one taking photos. That area of the beach is known for girls to hang out and show off so to speak, they are trying to attract the surfers, it's actually quite entertaining to watch.

That looks like some heavy surgery done to the spine on the girl to the left, or am I seeing things?