Canon EF-S 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS - Nifty Two-Fifty

[j0sh818]

Taken with this lens.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1288/4606467223_e51b366e09_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4606467223/in/photostream)
(Click (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4606467223/) the image to go to its Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/) page. Thanks!)

[Cesium]

55-250 (EF-S mount replaced with EF) with Kenko 300DG 2x teleconverter, 1DMK2, at 500mm, "wide open" f/11, flash fired.


http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h163/newtheory/c3d656ba.jpg

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h163/newtheory/d7eb2f1d.jpg

[thebaron]

Got this lens a few weeks ago. Pretty happy with the results considering the price I paid. Only issue I have is the CA can be quite intolerable at times. Other than that, I'm quite happy.

Here's a few samples with some PP.

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1239/4608834739_88cfa5ec59_o.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1404/4608835049_99fcd9dc77_b.jpg

This guy was way high up, shot at about 250mm
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4016/4608978707_d8385f4585_o.jpg

[thebaron]

Here's 2 more

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4540965658_98fe00b66d_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4540965658_98fe00b66d_o.jpg

And this is one of my first BIF tracking tests ona 40D
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4540967322_bc9e0a24ef_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4027/4540967322_bc9e0a24ef_o.jpg

[xOZx]

My monitor is crashing...although this is a bit under-exposed, I think it starts to show that this lense is worthy. This was my first real chance to use it.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y169/UNOZ1/Photography/gbh.jpg

[Xcelx]

Incredible lens for the price. AF is a bit flaky but when you get it totally right, it's quite sharp. The sample is a bit grainy in order to meet the 150kb limit, 100% crop @ 250mm F8.

[thebaron]

Nice shot XcelX. I agree, AF on long end is tricky and images can be soft when trying to resolve lots of complex detail. I pretty much use this lens at F/8 at all times unless I absolutely need to change due to the scene. But all well tolerable within this price range. I almost went with 70-300mm IS but after researching on theses forums, it seems that it wasn't worth it even if you're getting the extra 50mm.

[thebaron]

My monitor is crashing...although this is a bit under-exposed, I think it starts to show that this lense is worthy. This was my first real chance to use it.

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y169/UNOZ1/Photography/gbh.jpg
Nice shot.

[j0sh818]

Another shot taken with this lens:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4039/4620446498_38c8f3546f.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4620446498/in/set-72157623928813115)
(Click (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4620446498/) the image to go to its Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/) page. Thanks!)

[smallpotatoes]

Yeah, I normally keep mine around f/8, but even wide open at 250mm is quite nice.

http://jaci.smugmug.com/Animals/Wildlife/Birds/IMG7502edited-2/872975404_tBZJb-L.jpg

[YankeeMom]

This is the next lens on my list -- can't wait! :D GREAT SAMPLES, everyone!!

[vij]

Thanks for all the sample shots, greatly appreciated!
Having gone through this thread and read multiple reviews, I took the plunge and got this lens - and I've never been happier! The AF is a tad slow in not-so-low-light situations, but I half expected that so it doesn't bother me :)

Anyway, this shot was taken from about 4ft away, on a EOS 1000d.
(f5.6 1/320 sec, 200mm @ iso200)
http://vijays.net/flower2.jpg

[Matt Boyer]

My nifty-250 arrives today, I can't wait. I love the colors on that flower. Nice shot.

[j0sh818]

AF is not that fast but Continuous shooting really helps (not fast enough too, though) :)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4022/4624521998_f7b93f811d.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4624521998/in/set-72157623928813115)
Kindly click (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4624521998/) the photo to go to its Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/) page. Thanks!

[PBaker]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4624905776_49cb02b48d_o.jpg

[Deep Pocket]

Wide open 250mm


http://img413.imageshack.us/img413/8150/img9404600.jpg (http://img413.imageshack.us/i/img9404600.jpg/)

[oldvultureface]

We're grandparents again as of this morning.

http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww357/oldvultureface/POTN/IMG_3694.jpg

[328iGuy]

@ 250mm taken this past week in Varadero, Cuba......

http://gallery.me.com/perry613/100025/lizard/web.jpg?ver=12746674720001

[Cesium]

http://i64.photobucket.com/albums/h163/newtheory/eb97a1f3.jpg

With Kenko 2x teleconverter.

[jvanbeilen]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4034/4634750552_284290fec0_b.jpg

[paladinca]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4637314261_6937b0eec6_b.jpg

http://www.flickr.com/photos/xningforever/

[Arsenal55]

This lens is out for delivery to me today. Can't wait :)

[Matt Boyer]

Can anyone recommend a good macro tube for this lens? I love the quality and clarity. It's an excellent compliment to the 18-55 kit lens imo.

[thebaron]

Just took this Lens to a kids baseball game and worked really well in all ranges. Focus was a little slow, but not enough to affect the keeper rate.

Here's a few from the day:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4636079441_201fb4f602_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4001/4636079441_201fb4f602_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4636692356_6057f7dd27_o.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4041/4636692356_6057f7dd27_o.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4636090723_cb214ae149_b.jpg
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4636090723_cb214ae149_b.jpg

[thebaron]

It also does nicely for portraits,IMO.

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3396/4636700048_84e15c940b_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4047/4636699744_07461e125a_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3350/4636093445_e39dce8648.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3381/4636093095_e46185af73.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4026/4632217483_374a5ddaf0.jpg

[DL.Photography]

Baron, those shots are incredibly sharp. Makes me miss my 55-250IS a bit

[328iGuy]

Baron, those shots are incredibly sharp. Makes me miss my 55-250IS a bit

Keep in mind those are PP'd :)

[thebaron]

Keep in mind those are PP'd :)
Thanks DL.

328 - Yes they are PP'd all images are PP'd, at least the good ones. Basically the standard contrast boost, a pinch of lower exposure ~ -0.35 due to the harsh sunlight and a dash of unsharp after I reduced for web dimensions. I must say that this lens is pretty sharp. The SOOC sharpness was great, but that's because I shoot at F/8 all the time regardless of range. My only issues with this lens is the slow focus & occasion CA/Fringing in harsh conditions.

[Renaissance_Man]

Hey guys, I just got my copy of the lens today and I've got some quick observations/questions:

1) Coming from the recent Tamron 18-270mm (which I returned because I was unhappy with it), I'm surprised with the low-light performance of this lens so far. While I've only got a dark room to work with until tomorrow's sunlight, I've immediately noticed that the low-light performance isn't as strong as the Tammy 18-270. It could be b/c of the slightly faster speed (f/3.6 vs. f/4 wide open) and because of the new OS technology, but still: I guess it was wishful thinking to hope that this would work decently in the dark.

2) There's a VERY noticable whirring sound whenever the lens' AF comes on. The whirring continues until the picture is taken. It's a bit jarring because while I'm still very much an amateur photographer, I've used about 5 different lenses now and this is by far the only time I've heard this distinctive whirrrrrrring sound. It's low, but still there. Is this common on everybody else's copies?

I just gave it another go and it looks like the whirring sound might be the IS at work. It sounds like a computer hard drive going through its cycles.

3) There is definitely some strong vignetting going on on the wider end of lens (quite heavily in fact on the widest end).

4) I've had a few problems with the AF on some stationary objects. For example, the knobs on the second photo below were unshootable at any closer distance. The camera just refused to auto-focus and allow me to shoot. I haven't seen that before with other lenses at this distance. One would think that I'd have to be closer to the knobs to cause the lens to freak out and not work.

These are two of the better shots of my quick check.

[Renaissance_Man]

And this is one of the shots that just gives a sense of some of the low-light weakness of the lens:

[Renaissance_Man]

And here are two comparison shots between the 18-270 and 55-250 at comparable ranges and lighting conditions. Looking at them closely, it seems like the 18-270 MIGHT have a slight edge in sharpness, though I'm not exactly sure anymore.

[p4olom]

I don't know if I should keep my 55-250 or sell it! Most of the photos, on this thread, look great!

[Matt Boyer]

There is a slight tonal difference,and slightly different focal points. Both look great imo. I wouldn't hesitate to use the 250

[thebaron]

Hey guys, I just got my copy of the lens today and I've got some quick observations/questions:

1) Coming from the recent Tamron 18-270mm (which I returned because I was unhappy with it), I'm surprised with the low-light performance of this lens so far. While I've only got a dark room to work with until tomorrow's sunlight, I've immediately noticed that the low-light performance isn't as strong as the Tammy 18-270. It could be b/c of the slightly faster speed (f/3.6 vs. f/4 wide open) and because of the new OS technology, but still: I guess it was wishful thinking to hope that this would work decently in the dark.

2) There's a VERY noticable whirring sound whenever the lens' AF comes on. The whirring continues until the picture is taken. It's a bit jarring because while I'm still very much an amateur photographer, I've used about 5 different lenses now and this is by far the only time I've heard this distinctive whirrrrrrring sound. It's low, but still there. Is this common on everybody else's copies?

I just gave it another go and it looks like the whirring sound might be the IS at work. It sounds like a computer hard drive going through its cycles.

3) There is definitely some strong vignetting going on on the wider end of lens (quite heavily in fact on the widest end).

4) I've had a few problems with the AF on some stationary objects. For example, the knobs on the second photo below were unshootable at any closer distance. The camera just refused to auto-focus and allow me to shoot. I haven't seen that before with other lenses at this distance. One would think that I'd have to be closer to the knobs to cause the lens to freak out and not work.

These are two of the better shots of my quick check.
Hey Renaissance_Man -

Let me start by saying that I love my 55-250, but I would never use this as a low-light option. The lens does have a slow AF & on the longer range can miss at times depending on the scene. The sound you're hear from the IS is probably because this lens wasn't designed to be used under those conditions and is going bonkers trying to find focus & use IS at the same time. For low light you should be using something more in the F/2.8 category but some say you can even get away with an F/4 IS depending on your technique and body.

BTW- Checked your EXIF - try re-doing the shots with ISO 1600- 3200 to get better shutter speed (unfortunately on an XSI you'll get a lot of noise). Also try doing your shots on a tripod with IS turned off to see if your lens has any issues. Lastly, be advised that this lens can be soft at the longer 250 end even at F/8.

Hope this helps.

[j0sh818]

Using ISO 6400 of Canon T1i with this lens...

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4061/4639087182_ab042fdca7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4639087182/in/photostream)
Kindly click (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/4639087182/) the photo to go to its Flickr (http://www.flickr.com/photos/wizard818/) page. Thanks!

[thebaron]

Here's an uninteresting Low light sample of the 55-250is on my 40D

Shot Details: Handheld @194mm, iso:3200 (H), EV -1, Shutter: 1/13s, F/5.6 SOOC - opened in CS3 Raw (default settings - no changes), Resized in PS to 1024px width (bicubic smoother), 1 pass default NN, Unsharp mask 500 @ 0.2 for resize.

It's possible to take these type of shots, but not worth it in my opinion (keeper rate woud be low).

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3200/4641800687_dc92c3af75_o.jpg

[Renaissance_Man]

Hey Renaissance_Man -

Let me start by saying that I love my 55-250, but I would never use this as a low-light option. The lens does have a slow AF & on the longer range can miss at times depending on the scene. The sound you're hear from the IS is probably because this lens wasn't designed to be used under those conditions and is going bonkers trying to find focus & use IS at the same time. For low light you should be using something more in the F/2.8 category but some say you can even get away with an F/4 IS depending on your technique and body.

BTW- Checked your EXIF - try re-doing the shots with ISO 1600- 3200 to get better shutter speed (unfortunately on an XSI you'll get a lot of noise). Also try doing your shots on a tripod with IS turned off to see if your lens has any issues. Lastly, be advised that this lens can be soft at the longer 250 end even at F/8.

Hope this helps.

Thanks for the detailed response Thebaron. I'm hoping to upgrade soon to the T2i (if the damned thing ever gets restocked in this century) which should address some of the low-light problems.

I've also noticed something slightly odd about the lens: the lens barrel does not fully retract by simply turning the barrel for zooming in and zooming out. When I fully zoom out, there still remains a chunk of the barrel sticking out. The only way for me to fully retract is to turn the smaller dial at the end but it resists slightly and it feels like I'm damaging the lens.

In the digital-picture review of this lens (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-S-55-250mm-f-4-5.6-IS-Lens-Review.aspx) there is a picture that you can hover over to see what the lens looks like in the "lens extended" position.

So why won't it fully retract by simply zooming-out? Is this common?

[thebaron]

Thanks for the detailed response Thebaron. I'm hoping to upgrade soon to the T2i (if the damned thing ever gets restocked in this century) which should address some of the low-light problems.

I've also noticed something slightly odd about the lens: the lens barrel does not fully retract by simply turning the barrel for zooming in and zooming out. When I fully zoom out, there still remains a chunk of the barrel sticking out. The only way for me to fully retract is to turn the smaller dial at the end but it resists slightly and it feels like I'm damaging the lens.

In the digital-picture review of this lens (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-S-55-250mm-f-4-5.6-IS-Lens-Review.aspx) there is a picture that you can hover over to see what the lens looks like in the "lens extended" position.

So why won't it fully retract by simply zooming-out? Is this common?
Hey Renaissance, No prob.

Before you go dumping the camera and/or lens just know this:

The rule of thumb is - Lighting, Lens, Body - & then post processing experience - the only thing that precludes all those items is you, the user.

I've been where you are & know the frustration, but understand that when you know more about the decision making process in capturing a scene 1) reading the light 2) using the best lens for that light + what you are trying to achieve and finally 3) setting up the camera settings to best capture the scene based on the prior 2 -- This is really what it's about.

I guarantee you that if you had the 70-200 F4IS or even F2.8IS, you would be quite happy with your XSI. I also noticed that you shot the Tammy Lens in Av mode and the Canon in P mode. Its hard to compare lenses in different modes because the camera will choose different settings.

Take a minute to learn more about exposure, the modes and than about metering and you'll be headed in the right direction.

I hope this helps and is intended to be constructive not criticism.

Good luck.

PS - Yes you need to turn the focus ring to fully retract the lens at times. I do it all the time and it can feel stiff. If you're terribly worried about the stiffness, than put it in Manual focus and retract by turning the focus ring.

[Renaissance_Man]

Hey Renaissance, No prob.

Before you go dumping the camera and/or lens just know this:

The rule of thumb is - Lighting, Lens, Body - & then post processing experience - the only thing that precludes all those items is you, the user.

I've been where you are & know the frustration, but understand that when you know more about the decision making process in capturing a scene 1) reading the light 2) using the best lens for that light + what you are trying to achieve and finally 3) setting up the camera settings to best capture the scene based on the prior 2 -- This is really what it's about.

I guarantee you that if you had the 70-200 F4IS or even F2.8IS, you would be quite happy with your XSI. I also noticed that you shot the Tammy Lens in Av mode and the Canon in P mode. Its hard to compare lenses in different modes because the camera will choose different settings.

Take a minute to learn more about exposure, the modes and than about metering and you'll be headed in the right direction.

I hope this helps and is intended to be constructive not criticism.

Good luck.

PS - Yes you need to turn the focus ring to fully retract the lens at times. I do it all the time and it can feel stiff. If you're terribly worried about the stiffness, than put it in Manual focus and retract by turning the focus ring.

Wow, I hadn't even noticed that they were shot in different modes. Thanks for pointing that out.

I've been casually using my XSi for about a year now and have practiced a bit with lighting and metering, but I've always had the impression that my XSi unit was a bit off in terms of sharpness and color (even in full light conditions). Maybe this is because I've used a Tamron 17-50mm f/2.8 that feels defective and consistently produces unfocused photos amidst a few sharp ones. I'm going to keep playing with the lens and I'll post some daylight examples either today or tomorrow to see how the lens is faring in the XSi body. Thanks for putting the effort into that thoughtful response. I'll keep trying.

And I'm glad to know that I don't have the single defective 55-250mm lens out there that doesn't fully retract :D. Is anybody at all bothered by this? I haven't seen any other lenses that require me to rotate two dials in order to become fully retracted. Also, does it matter if the lens is in AF or MF when I manually rotate the part of the lens that sticks out? It worries me to rotate it because I don't want to permanently grind the rotating mechanism. Eesh!

[thebaron]

No Prob.

It's not defective, just characteristic of this lens. I just turn it in AF mode but if you're worried then switch to MF and voila.

[Cesium]

I don't know if I should keep my 55-250 or sell it! Most of the photos, on this thread, look great!

Sell.

[Adam Jones]

No Prob.

It's not defective, just characteristic of this lens. I just turn it in AF mode but if you're worried then switch to MF and voila.

Turning the focusing ring during AF mode WILL damage the focusing motor of this lens. Full-time manual focusing is NOT available on the 55-250mm IS.

[thebaron]

Turning the focusing ring during AF mode WILL damage the focusing motor of this lens. Full-time manual focusing is NOT available on the 55-250mm IS.
Dude, are you serious with the big bold font.

There is a MF/AF switch on the 55-250is. I guess you don't own this lens.

[Adam Jones]

Dude, are you serious with the big bold font.

There is a MF/AF switch on the 55-250is. I guess you don't own this lens.

I'm just trying to save someone from ruining their lens by turning the focus ring in AF mode.

[oldvultureface]

Turning the focusing ring during AF mode WILL damage the focusing motor of this lens. Full-time manual focusing is NOT available on the 55-250mm IS.

The lettering should have been in red. Think driving your stick shift without using the clutch. Eventually damage will result. If you want to fully retract the lens, please flip the switch to manual focus before turning in the ring.

[Renaissance_Man]

Sorry guys, I didn't mean to start a fight :D

Should I be worried that I retracted the lens about 2-3 times today while it was on AF? It won't happen again, but are we talking long term damage here?

[Deadpool_25]

...Full-time manual focusing is NOT available on the 55-250mm IS.

What is meant here? If you flip the switch to MF...is that not full time?

[raylfreeman]

What is meant here? If you flip the switch to MF...is that not full time?

No. Full time means you can use manual when it is in auto focus.....fine tune to your eye kind of thing........

[Bwqian]

First time taking the lens out, whistler BC
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3399/4646481026_8c499b4bf9_o.jpg

[Dankata]

My baby boy few months ago, I am testing CS5 now and I love it (I also love the 55-250 ;))

http://lh3.ggpht.com/_TmCQUSGa2D8/S_9hrsYdf-I/AAAAAAAAAsE/qqdqYSiD6oc/s800/IMG_6827_33.jpg

[fritzk3]

No. Full time means you can use manual when it is in auto focus.....fine tune to your eye kind of thing........

Correct. To clarify further... when Canon specifies that a lens has "full-time manual focus," it means that the manual focus ring can be used (without damaging the motor) no matter which position the AF-MF switch is in.

On the 55-250 IS lens, while the switch is in the AF position, the user should NOT manually focus using the focus ring. If you want to do that, move the switch to the MF position.

[ckfishel2001]

Correct. To clarify further... when Canon specifies that a lens has "full-time manual focus," it means that the manual focus ring can be used (without damaging the motor) no matter which position the AF-MF switch is in.

On the 55-250 IS lens, while the switch is in the AF position, the user should NOT manually focus using the focus ring. If you want to do that, move the switch to the MF position.

:) well stated

[jws1002]

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3084/2672568370_b430a1aacb.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3416/4643057853_b1ca1edf8a.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3599/3764437172_a68bf1221b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3067/2836791581_06471fe68b.jpg

[oldvultureface]

jws1002,

Nice pictures. Was the turtle (tortoise) overly saturated or are the colors close to reality?

[jws1002]

jws1002,

Nice pictures. Was the turtle (tortoise) overly saturated or are the colors close to reality?

Thank you...the turtle's colors were pretty dark to begin with, I did saturate them a bit - I liked the bright colors. I can find an original to post if you would like to see it.

[Matt Boyer]

What kind of turtle is that and where did u find him? That bottom pick is very cool.

[Matt Boyer]

Can anyone recommend a good macro tube for this lens? I love the quality and clarity. It's an excellent compliment to the 18-55 kit lens imo.

I haven't gotten an answer regarding tubes. I know I need a C/AFs type specifically, but prices are all over the place and descriptions are iffy (amazon). Anyone know of a specific make and model no that works well the T2i & EF-S 55-250? Thank you all.

Never mind. I bought a Kenko set off ebay. Looks like it will work. Anyone have these or try them?
http://cgi.ebay.com/KENKO-Automatic-Extension-Tube-Set-DG-AF-Macro-Canon-/250626576043?cmd=ViewItem&pt=Lens_Accessories&hash=item3a5a820eab

[kayl]

Here's a shot I took at a recent baseball game:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4028/4643231477_a6fd2bc1c4_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/jbrinksphoto/4643231477/)

[oldvultureface]

I did saturate them a bit - I liked the bright colors.

Thanks. Just curious.

[jws1002]

What kind of turtle is that and where did u find him? That bottom pick is very cool.

An Eastern Box Turtle, I believe. He was in my parents' front yard, so I just sat down beside him and started snapping away.

[Deep Pocket]

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/8495/img0417tk.jpg

Backwards 55-250 at 55mm :p

[Crash222]

I have this lens. I purchased the EF 70-300mm IS USM (non DO) to compliment my new 15-85 mm. I was going to sell my 55-250mm but after using the 70-300mm I am thinking I should exchange it for something else like maybe the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM. I have 45 days to Return the 70-300mm. Any thoughts?

[raylfreeman]

I have this lens. I purchased the EF 70-300mm IS USM (non DO) to compliment my new 15-85 mm. I was going to sell my 55-250mm but after using the 70-300mm I am thinking I should exchange it for something else like maybe the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro USM. I have 45 days to Return the 70-300mm. Any thoughts?

I would get a prime based on your focal length preference, whatever that may be. The 100macro is great if it is not too long for you. If so, the 85 1.8 is a great performer.

[Crash222]

Thanks. I already have the 85mm. It is a great lens. So you think I should exchange the 70-300 for the 100mm macro?

[raylfreeman]

Thanks. I already have the 85mm. It is a great lens. So you think I should exchange the 70-300 for the 100mm macro?

I overlooked the 85 in your sig. My bad.

Do you need the macro and is 100mm a good length for you? Looking at the lenses you have listed, a shorter prime might be good.

[Crash222]

I was just thinking about the 100mm macro because a) I do not have a macro and b) from the reviews it is really sharp. It is a little cheaper than the 70-300. I think I would like using the macro more than the slightly longer reach of the 70-300.

[raylfreeman]

I was just thinking about the 100mm macro because a) I do not have a macro and b) from the reviews it is really sharp. It is a little cheaper than the 70-300. I think I would like using the macro more than the slightly longer reach of the 70-300.

Look at the 60mm macro also. Unbelievable lens. It all depends on your focal length preference.

[jerryx1101]

:)...

[thebaron]

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/8495/img0417tk.jpg

Backwards 55-250 at 55mm :p
Cool Shot.

[cuonger69]

This is my first flick with this lens. It was shot through a window so quality has suffered a bit, but overall I'm very impressed with this lens so far.


http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4021/4655630260_36253c0626_b.jpg

[gregr2]

http://img191.imageshack.us/img191/8495/img0417tk.jpg

Backwards 55-250 at 55mm :p

That is nice!

[Zetoyoc]

Just picked up this lens. and the camera (50d) so it is all new. Having fun though..

well cropped
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4052/4657579617_6443442458_b.jpg

not so cropped
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4053/4657579671_b606928e0a_b.jpg

hum they looked beter on my screen :) oh well

Zetoyoc

[oldvultureface]

Note the subtle pattern of the fence in the defocused area.

http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww357/oldvultureface/IMG_9064.jpg

[Deadpool_25]

I'm just learning and this lens came in the T1i kit from Costco. I think I like it but am not sure it's as sharp as I might eventually want...then again, a large part of that is probably me. :)

Oh, the iguana is through glass. The Lion is through a chainlink fence.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4662676142_57cf4176e0_b.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1301/4662052273_f9c61f285c_b.jpg

[fritzk3]

I'm just learning and this lens came in the T1i kit from Costco. I think I like it but am not sure it's as sharp as I might eventually want...then again, a large part of that is probably me. :)

Oh, the iguana is through glass. The Lion is through a chainlink fence.



Given the obstructions you listed, I think your captures really came out great. Don't underestimate this lens - it really is one of the best for the money. It's also relatively small and lightweight, making it a great lens to take to places like the zoo where you'll want that reach.

[Deadpool_25]

Given the obstructions you listed, I think your captures really came out great. Don't underestimate this lens - it really is one of the best for the money. It's also relatively small and lightweight, making it a great lens to take to places like the zoo where you'll want that reach.

Thank you. Yeah, definitely small and lightweight. It was fine carrying it around all day. Next time I shoot with this lens I'll try some shots comparison shots at f/8 and f/11. I've read those might be sharper than wide open.

[jerryx1101]

very nice captures! looks pretty sharp to me.

I'm just learning and this lens came in the T1i kit from Costco. I think I like it but am not sure it's as sharp as I might eventually want...then again, a large part of that is probably me. :)

Oh, the iguana is through glass. The Lion is through a chainlink fence.

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4029/4662676142_57cf4176e0_b.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1301/4662052273_f9c61f285c_b.jpg

[oldvultureface]

The little guys have really grown.

http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww357/oldvultureface/POTN/IMG_9079.jpg

[Renaissance_Man]

Took these today while taking a walk around the neighborhood with my new 55-250 and T2i.

[jvanbeilen]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4037/4650584132_0c94eb9bfa_b.jpg

55-250 with Raynox dcr250

[xOZx]

Managed to break away from a deck project and take a couple of quick exposures last evening...Still trying to dial this lense in...

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y169/UNOZ1/Photography/whatsit2010.jpg

http://i5.photobucket.com/albums/y169/UNOZ1/Photography/df2010.jpg

[Joe Ravenstein]

The 55-250 is was the 1st additional lens I bought when I bought my T1i and I must give credit to Frys B&M store for carrying the 55-250 in stock. It was my baptism to DSLRs and was trying to duplicate my SRT101 film cameras lens selection. Only after acquiring the lens did I find out how good it was in IQ. Kudos to all for the incredible images in this thread.

[YankeeMom]

I finally got this lens last week. Though I can get decent shots with my 70-300, I felt that IS was necessary for better shots at these focal lengths (and from what I can tell so far, I was right.) I have to admit that I don't use my long zoom very often, but with summer in NH upon us and day-trips around, I just had to have something good "just in case."

Anyway, here are a few test shots:

Not too shabby for portraits. It compared well with my 50 1.8, but maybe not quite as sharp:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4060/4676120967_95e929c9f9.jpg

Focal length: 55

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1289/4676756542_e4157eef30.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4003/4676772342_db652785e0.jpg

And at the long end -- 250 mm. I took these from my car and was impressed. I'm sure that IS made a big difference here:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4040/4676751134_37b0994162.jpg

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1272/4676160139_5c2ee066d2.jpg

(Decent bokeh but not as creamy/smooth as my 50 1.8.)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4019/4676779526_a1c2c4867f.jpg

I think I will enjoy this lens very much over the summer. :)

[Dankata]

http://lh6.ggpht.com/_TmCQUSGa2D8/TBI4uiLV8WI/AAAAAAAAAvU/BolxXRQ3WgI/s800/IMG_9959.jpg

[fritzk3]

1/40s, f/5.6, ISO 200, 179mm (cropped)

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4690322831_209b5ec6b4_b.jpg

[smallpotatoes]

To bad the pelicans were directly behind him, but that's not a fault of the lens!

http://jaci.smugmug.com/Animals/Wildlife/Birds/IMG7846edited-4/897066676_3zEzm-L.jpg

[dawestsides]

My first air shot:
http://i464.photobucket.com/albums/rr6/dawestsidesscreaming/IMG_5707.jpg

[ruuustin]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4693757098_0d1d0a6a6f_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/49731395@N03/4693757098/)

@ Churchill Downs a couple weekends ago

[Deep Pocket]

f/5.6, 250mm


http://img16.imageshack.us/img16/6956/img2055620.jpg (http://img16.imageshack.us/i/img2055620.jpg/)

[328iGuy]

http://gallery.me.com/perry613/100025/beetle/web.jpg?ver=12766562340001

[Cole_Schmitt]

Strait off the camera. Only thing done to the photo is my border.

http://i707.photobucket.com/albums/ww71/Cole_S_Photo/177.jpg

I don't know if Photobucket distorts any of the quality but it's what I have to use for another day since my Flickr account is up.

[CW Jones]

Great lens if you know how to use it, and you Cole know how to use it! Nicely done.

[oldvultureface]

Dog.

http://i735.photobucket.com/albums/ww357/oldvultureface/POTN/IMG_9069.jpg

[Lennybird]

ISO=200, 250mm Focal, 1/250 Shutter
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4506051746_353e429213_b.jpg
ISO=200, 250mm Focal, 1/400 Shutter (This was a mid-day shot; thus a good bit of PP)
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3575/3556520415_1126e28102_b.jpg
ISO=200, 240 Focal, 1/500 Shutter
http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3382/3556999275_258da6942a_b.jpg

Also, is there a forum rule as to what image size we can post (I looked around)? I can't figure out how to edit image size via HTML/BB.

[moose517]

just got this lens on sunday, took it to the zoo with me tuesday, really really glad i did, great pics with it, here are a couple
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1302/4710194569_c360b7dfb2.jpg
thought this waterfall piece looked real cool

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4710194639_8ca5713829.jpg
BTW if you know what kind of bird that is, i would love to know, my niece was rushing me through that area, didn't really have time to stop and look at there little cards.

you can find more of them i took with the 55-250 on my flickr here http://www.flickr.com/photos/moose5171989/

[smallpotatoes]

BTW if you know what kind of bird that is, i would love to know, my niece was rushing me through that area, didn't really have time to stop and look at there little cards.



Nice photos. Both of them. And it's an East African Crowned Crane.

[k3v11n]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4032/4710310796_bb7c7c020b_b.jpg

Coors Light. Don't judge me by my beer choice! :lol:
http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1278/4709667751_e23a7cf0bf_b.jpg

[YankeeMom]

I took these at a historical "Cemetary Walk" (thus the "treatment.")

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4072/4717446712_11dd1e32b6.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4015/4717427220_5d36a4ec36.jpg

[Miss Frizzle]

A few from today with my XSi and 55-250....
before I dropped them on the floor. Their fate is to be determined. :(

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4716194973_bc9bb01a9b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4716846230_42c769860c.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4716837404_2d91813129.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4716846812_6b3383eabe.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4051/4716837508_bb97a60fc8.jpg

[Cole_Schmitt]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4049/4716634653_9f18b0d4fc_b.jpg

[Silverfox1]

Few recent pics with this excellent bargain priced lens:

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/Silverfox111/IMG_1167.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/Silverfox111/IMG_1094.jpg

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/Silverfox111/IMG_0863.jpg

[TabulaVicious]

http://photos.vwmail.net/d/3320-1/Spitfire1.JPG

http://photos.vwmail.net/d/3323-1/Spitfire2.JPG

Canon EOS 20D
f/11
0.67 EV
Aperture Priority
250 mm
ISO 200
1/400 sec

[jvanbeilen]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4718032278_6dd2aee8e8_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4071/4718030970_78c3d8d418_b.jpg

[Miss Frizzle]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4014/4718032278_6dd2aee8e8_b.jpg



CUTE!

[Xcelx]

More squirrels

[danny819]

How does this lens compare to the Canon EF 28-135mm and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM?

[fritzk3]

How does this lens compare to the Canon EF 28-135mm and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM?

I can only speak for comparisons to the EF 28-135 lens (I've never owned or used the 70-200).

Physical differences of the 28-135:
* EF mount (can be used on FF cameras)
* 72mm vs. 58mm opening at end of barrel
* full-time manual focus available
* distance scale visible on barrel
* heavier than 55-250
* somewhat faster and quieter auto-focus, due to USM

In terms of image quality, I feel as though the 55-250 has a slight edge - colors seem to be richer and sharpness is better based on my own use.

[fritzk3]

A few from today with my XSi and 55-250....
before I dropped them on the floor. Their fate is to be determined. :(

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4043/4716194973_bc9bb01a9b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4064/4716846230_42c769860c.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4069/4716837404_2d91813129.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4050/4716846812_6b3383eabe.jpg



Really like these portrait shots. The 55-250 continues to amaze me in terms of what it can do, despite being a "budget" lens.

[fritzk3]

One from yesterday. The slight vignetting was a natural phenomenon, but I'm pleased with the effect. (40D, 1/500s, f/5.6, ISO 100, 225mm)

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1032/4720590561_38ffa1152d_b.jpg

[YankeeMom]

Girl playing violin at Cemetery Walk in out town:

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4054/4716807625_ccb2888c90.jpg

[Miss Frizzle]

Really like these portrait shots. The 55-250 continues to amaze me in terms of what it can do, despite being a "budget" lens.

Thanks! Yeah, it's a good lens! :)

[mghong]

Compare with Canon 18-200 f/3.5-5.6 IS..will that be a more general purpose lense then this ?

[liesawl]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1081/4720936225_7d6303038e_b.jpg

[Deep Pocket]

How does this lens compare to the Canon EF 28-135mm and the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM?

The 55-250 is sharper and colors are slightly better than the 28-135. Image quality wise, it is the better lens. Focus is slower though.

the 70-200 f4 has better image quality than the 55-250, but stopped down to f8 or so on the 55-250 there is little difference between the two.


Compare with Canon 18-200 f/3.5-5.6 IS..will that be a more general purpose lense then this ?

This should be sharper.

[Deep Pocket]

A few from today with my XSi and 55-250....
before I dropped them on the floor. Their fate is to be determined. :(



Beautiful shots :)

[smallpotatoes]

I love this lens!

http://jaci.smugmug.com/Animals/Wildlife/Birds/IMG7770edited-2/909370256_3gc3f-L.jpg

[gshappell]

Just got this lens last week and love it...

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1145/4721131448_f898c66e37.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4056/4719073507_851fa7e3fd.jpg

[fatdeeman]

Few recent pics with this excellent bargain priced lens:



http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v679/Silverfox111/IMG_1094.jpg



:O

I'm SO buying one to replace my old push pull 70-210mm f/4

Amazing samples everyone! This lens looks like a total bargain.

[hsmoscout]

70-200mm f/4 will be sharper, heavier, have better bokeh, colors, build, and contrast. Also will attract more funny comments and people doing double takes. That is one difference that can be noticed almost immediately.

[Owl_79]

:O

I'm SO buying one to replace my old push pull 70-210mm f/4

Amazing samples everyone! This lens looks like a total bargain.

What amazing photo...superb!!
You dont need L lens to get beautiful bird photos :)

[fatdeeman]

70-200mm f/4 will be sharper, heavier, have better bokeh, colors, build, and contrast. Also will attract more funny comments and people doing double takes. That is one difference that can be noticed almost immediately.

I mean the 70-210mm not the L, I'm not sure if that's the one you'e thinking of?

http://www.adorama.com/images/large/US_EOZ702104.JPG

I would not swap an L for this, not matter how much of a bargain it is!

The 70-210 is fine, and sharp wide open till about 135mm but from then on it needs to be at F/8-F/11 which I'm sure the 55-250mm will equal or beat and you have the range and IS too.

[Cole_Schmitt]

http://farm2.static.flickr.com/1121/4734795014_aca6c381fc_b.jpg

[CRich917]

One I took at the Zoo in New Orleans

[veereshai]

I was lucky to try out this lens at the local butterfly park yesterday and I admit I am blown. Here's the photograph,

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4118/4739869644_43490ef1f8_z.jpg

[thenextbutton]

I was lucky to try out this lens at the local butterfly park yesterday and I admit I am blown. Here's the photograph,



nice effect using colour selection.

[ESMcBlurM3]

http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb35/emcbane/603f6224.jpg

[Zipline]

I just bought this lens online. I can't wait to get it. It should be here Thursday. My primary use will be whale watching. I'm currently using the 75-300mm IS lens, but that lens seems to be crapping the bed. The auto focus has REALLY slowed down a LOT. My mother is using my non IS 75-300mm lens so opted to just buy a new one.

Does anyone have experience with this lens AND the 75-300 non IS (it's approx 4 years old)? I'm curious to see how the auto focus speeds stack up.

[jgatti]

AF speed is reasonable. For the price you can't really expect it to be the quickest around.

[veereshai]

nice effect using colour selection.

Thank you, I am glad that you like it :).

[Zipline]

AF speed is reasonable. For the price you can't really expect it to be the quickest around.
Thanks, I kind of expected that, but I was just curious to see if it'll be a step forward or a step backwards compared to my old lens. As long as it's able to get good whale shots (especially when they're breaching), I'll be more than pleased! :D

[Hellhammer]

http://i81.photobucket.com/albums/j223/ImthePusherRobot/06262010/bird-resize.jpg

[fatdeeman]

nice effect using colour selection.

Here here!

It's nice to see the effect used in a slightly more imaginative way than the usual Red rose/ British pillar box / Yellow taxi cab way

[Miss Frizzle]

http://sphotos.ak.fbcdn.net/hphotos-ak-ash2/hs080.ash2/37348_940656040691_10008802_53440925_1362872_n.jpg

I am so impressed with my 55-250!!!

[jase1125]

For the amount of money I spent on this lens I am very satisfied. Hard to criticize anything when I only paid $230.

f/8, ISO 200, 1/320, 194mm focal length, rebel T2i
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4101/4754194073_c3295c952a_z.jpg

f/8, ISO 640, 1/400, 250mm focal length, rebel T2i
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4100/4754836642_1175e7485e_z.jpg

f/8, ISO 200, 1/160, 96mm focal length, rebel T2i
http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4098/4754838316_c184ba51f3_z.jpg

[ecka]

EOS 500D | 250mm | ISO800 | 1/500sec | f/5.6
http://lh4.ggpht.com/_48uqwynaX04/SyUe0YmBFlI/AAAAAAAAA5U/AcZF1oVdRUc/IMG_1851+.JPG
EXIF inside ;)

[TeamSpeed]

Before I sell mine, I thought I would use it at local ballgame, and snapped shots of family and the other players...

[TeamSpeed]

Game shots...

[WARAT]

I got the lens with the camera as a package together with the 18-55 mm. I didn't know the potential of this lens until I saw this thread.

Here's a cropped one, that's all. No PP

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4757669286_7544d0d849_b.jpg

[rich_cooper]

Im thinking about getting this lens this week. Does anyone use it for motorsport ?

how do you find it if you do ?

thanks

[lonelyjew]

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt18/cplpunishment/lowfrogcopy.jpg

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt18/cplpunishment/wetsimon.jpg

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt18/cplpunishment/wetphinny.jpg

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt18/cplpunishment/swampflower.jpg

http://i593.photobucket.com/albums/tt18/cplpunishment/sleepyhiyabw.jpg

[Zipline]

So, the verdict is in! I got this lens and tested it out over the weekend. Unfortunately, I didn't get the whale activity I had hoped for (open mouth feeding, breaching, etc), but this lens DEFINITELY did it's job and caught me some amazing shots! I have a feeling this lens will be a very reliable one for me on my whale watch adventures. Here are some full shots with 100% shots to show the clarity. Keep in mind these photos were taken on a moving boat on the moving ocean AND I shut the IS off! Very impressive results in my eyes! :)

Full shot of a Fin Whale's dorsal fin.
http://www.whalesightings.com/fin.jpg

Full crop of the same shot...
http://www.whalesightings.com/finx1.jpg

Full shot of a Humpback Whale's flukes.
http://www.whalesightings.com/mn.jpg

Full crop of the same shot...
http://www.whalesightings.com/mnx1.jpg

A Greater Shearwater getting ready to take off.
http://www.whalesightings.com/gshear.jpg

Full crop of the same shot...
http://www.whalesightings.com/gshearx1.jpg

[jvanbeilen]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4114/4760996711_933a824b90_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4120/4761580548_545e7edb17_b.jpg

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4119/4760912555_aa88446780_b.jpg

[Mike55]

Great whale shots.

[danny819]

Just picked one up used for $170 =)

[Dick Emery]

Just picked one up used for $170 =)
A steal!

[tkbslc]

I like how you can do half decent macros with this lens, but you get 3 feet of working distance. Makes it easier to grab a shot without scaring them away.

I did have to use manual focus for this one as the AF couldn't decide on the insect or the flower.

http://tkbphoto.zenfolio.com/img/s8/v9/p1022381565-4.jpg

[ssracer]

Im thinking about getting this lens this week. Does anyone use it for motorsport ?

how do you find it if you do ?

thanks

not bad, as long as there is good light

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3583/3561312447_976b18ce1c_b.jpg

http://farm4.static.flickr.com/3340/3561331735_1735710021_b.jpg

Night races are a bit more difficult....I should have bumped the ISO more do get better shutter speed

http://farm3.static.flickr.com/2467/3985157419_eb8daeee7e_b.jpg

[fatdeeman]

Mine just turned up, still in work at the moment but I was surprised by the finish of the lens, it's not top notch but better than I expected, the texturised finish on the plastic is a simple touch but gives a much more tactile feel in the hand. It's definately a step up from the original 18-55.

I can't wait to get home and try it, shame the weather is cloudy!

[fatdeeman]

I love it! I love it already!

I might post a couple of samples after dinner, I have nothing more than a few mundane test shots but I love it!

It's really sharp wide open at 250mm, I wasn't expecting that! I guess there are perks to having an 8mp sensor with relatively big pixels.

It's the first lens I have ever used with IS too, I have really shaky hands but I am already getting sharp shots at 1/40 with the lens set to 250mm.

I paid £149.99 for a new one.

Looks like the reliable old 70-210mm push/pull is going on ebay, great lens and benefits from a distance scale and metal mount but it just cannot compete in terms of sharpness wide open at the long end. This new lens is a lot more compact too.

I'm seriously impressed so far, I was a little worried that shallow depth of field would be difficult to achieve but now that I know I don't need to stop down it's not such a concern.

I'm going to the Bridgend county show on Sunday, hopefully the sun will be out and I can get a nice variety of shots such as horse jumping and classic vehicles.

[kampers]

I took this photo using the Nifty 250 lense. I am new to digital photography as I just purchased my first DSLR. I decided to buy the Canon Rebel EOS T21 body. The package came with the Canon 55 to 250 mm Zoom Lens.

I was approximately 100 ft away when I snapped this shot at around 250 mm FL.