Need Advice

[minatophase3]

I would appreciate some feedback from the knowledgeable people on this board. I am looking at upgrading some equipment and am not sure what to do, and while I know I am the only one that can determine that I would appreciate some feedback.

First, here is what I want to do: I want to get a good lens for zoo pictures and think the 300mm is a minimum for this. I would like to be able to print out the pics at least up to 11x14, possibly larger so image quality is pretty important. I would also like to shoot some kids sports and possibly indoor dance recitals but that would not be the main purpose of this lens.

My budget is approximately $2,000, and I do not have a tripod or monopod. I currently shoot with a D60.

Here is what I am thinking:

Option 1 - Get a good used copy of a Sigma 120-300 2.8, possibly a 1.4tc and a monopod

Option 2 - Get a good used copy of a Sigma 100-300 4, possibly 1.4tc, plus 20D, plus monopod

Option 3 - Get a Canon 100-400L plus 20D and sell the D60

Option 4 - Get a "Bigma" plus 20D plus monopod

I am so confused, can someone offer some good advice????

Thanks,
Tim

[JZaun]

You won't go wrong with the 100-400. You can visit my site. All animal pics,(except the 2 cat pics) all birds, and all ducks/geese are taken with the 100-400mmIS (L) canon lens.

JZ

[Longwatcher]

I have to agree with the 100-400 go for that; much more flexability, plus if you get a 1.4x extender, even more range if needed.

I would hold off on the 20D for a bit though as I personally think you can do just as good of a job with the D60 for now. After PMA, which is in mid-Feb then choose if you want to upgrade the camera or not and to which one.

A D60 should be able to produce 16x24 prints which are clean. So unless you want bigger then that, you should be good for a bit longer. The only serious advantages to 20D are faster FPS and reduced noise at higher ISO and given the rumours of rebel XT it might be wise to hold off in order to save money until we see what that can do. If the indoor dance recitals were a more primary activity then maybe the 20D would be a better choice.

Just my opinion,