70-200/2.8L experiences

[JCDoss]

Pekka,

I've been reading over the past hour or so the trials and tribulatoins that some 70-200/2.8L owners have been having with AF performance. Particularly, I've been reading that AI-Servo AF lags behind subjects in motion towards the camera, or it engages in weird cycling behavior and never locks on to the subject. Apparently, there are several sports photojournalists at www.robgalbraith.com who have experienced this problem. Some say that this experience is limited to this lens, but some say that it's a D30 problem that affects all lenses. I wasn't sure what to believe until I read this post, written by you, at www.dpreview.com.

http://www.dpreview.com/forums/read.asp?forum=1019&page=1&message=1217735

Quote: "Some time ago I had my (new) 70-200 f/2.8L in repair (jus a "cosmetic" repair: to make the the connection tighter, did help a bit) and meanwhile I borrowed an (old) 70-200 f/2.8L which had exactly the problem you described [AF cycling back and forth in AI-Servo mode at medium range distances, always missing the target and never locking on]. Really annoying, and I lost many easy shots because of the "small area hunting" and thus failing to focus properly in quick moments. When I got my own lens back the difference was like night and day - get yours repaired, I'm sure it's worth it!"

After reading this post, I'm now inclined that the problems I've been reading about are most likely related to that particular lens.

Did Canon completely cure this problem when you sent yours in for repair? What was their explanation? Have you experienced this problem with any other lenses since then?

Just curious,
JCDoss

[Pekka]

The problem with my lens and the one I borrowed meanwhile were different. My own had a somewhat loose ring (which was actually in specs) and the one I borrowed had the problem you described. Get it fixed. I´m sure it´s not D30 related, as my own D30 and 70-200L have been flawless in all areas of performance, the photographer is the main problem :)

I´m writing this in a netcafe in Algarve so more later.... time for some beer now. I have taken over 1000 photos in last 8 days and the hardware is running fine.

[JCDoss]

Pekka,

I don't have the lens or the problem. I was just curious.

Drink one for me!
JCDoss

[DanS]

Pekka:

Now that you've probably had some time to review the various optical differences between the IS and non-IS versions of this lens, what is your opinion on the IS version.

Specifically, if you didn't already own the lens and had to make the decision to purchase either IS or non-IS, what would you do and why?

[Pekka]

DanS wrote:
Pekka:

Now that you've probably had some time to review the various optical differences between the IS and non-IS versions of this lens, what is your opinion on the IS version.

Specifically, if you didn't already own the lens and had to make the decision to purchase either IS or non-IS, what would you do and why?

I always try to make decisions not by what would be cool to own, but what I actually don't have in my bag right now and based on what would make photographing more versatile (reach more, wider, in less light). That's why the IS is not on top of my list. I use a monopod in concert halls and IS does not help freezing action anyway. And by dpreview Canon SLR forum posts it seems that the IS version is not as sharp and contrasty as the old one.

IMHO the new 70-200IS is fun but not worth the price asked. I'd put my money to lenses for new perspectives.
My "next lenses" list is now the following (in this order):
- 28 f/2.8 (or rather 1.8 which is a bit softer) or 24 f/2.8.
- 35 f/2.0 (or if I can afford it 35 1.4L which costs four times the 2.0 model)
- 28-70L for versatility (traveling)
- 17-35L for versatility (traveling - could mean selling the sigma 14)

And it seems I have to start saving for the next 6mp model by Canon - if the rumors are true the first photojournalist model (4.xmp) is 7500 euros, so the rumoured 6mp "general" model could be even more dough! So for me there's no room now for getting the latest lens models just for the sake of it.

What do you think?

[DanS]

Pekka wrote:


What do you think?


I think you make some excellent points.

True, the type of photography one engages in will be a key driver when considering lens selection.

Given my geo location, I have many opportunities for landscape and wildlife. Thus, I'm leaning toward the 28-70L for landscapes (I'll keep the Sigma 14 for architecturals which was what drew me into digital photography in the first place) and then a 70-200 and 100-400.....or all three. :-)

Anyone want to buy my 1992 Ford Explorer 4X4? :-o

[garberfc]

Hi,

You mentioned the slightly loose connection between the lens and camera body. I have a 1D and the 70-200 IS and have the same problem.

What was the solution? How long did it take...

Thanks,

Frank

[Rudi]

FWIW, I had this problem with a 70-200 f/4 L and 1.4x TC attached. The lens would be fine without the TC, but with the TC is had a 'dead spot' at around 2 metres, where, unless there was a really, REALLY contrasty object to focus on, it would get into the 'cycling' behaviour and never lock on.

Since I had other problems with that lens, I never investigated that problem any further. My replacement, the f/2.8 version, has not been put into the same situation yet, so I can't say if it does the same.

[sudaplatov]

Pekka, you made a very good point
as usual on your lens choice - thanx!
Could you explain why you decided
to form you lens wish list in such a way?
I have similar ideas perhaps but it would
be very nice to know your opinion.
By the way, why there are no any
macro lens on you wish list?