70-200mm f/4.0L tripod collar

[elkootcho]

Hi folks! Let me start by saying that I'm new to this site but I'm already addicted!

Quick question: I just bought the Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0L USM Zoom Lens
but hesitate to shell out extra $$$ for the lens collar. Is it really needed for tripod /monopod use?

Will be used on a drebel.

[michael.luczkow]

same question, 20D

[sharky]

I originally thought no, but am just about to put an order in for one. I was shooting some cityscapes the other day and found the camera (10D) to be pretty front heavy on the tripod. I wound't say it's necessary, but as a convenience thing I think it will be good.

[cactusclay]

I think the lens is light enough to use without, but would be handy for sports. Not necessary, but nice.

[Belmondo]

At 200mm with a slower shutter speed, you'll find you need it. If you only plan on shooting it at 1/500 and you're reasonably steady, you won't have a problem, but most people are eventually faced with a situation where they wish they had it.

[boBquincy]

I use a monopod and set it at the balance point of the 10D/70-200 f4 combination, not the tripod socket. When I use a tripod the lens collar works much better than using the camera tripod socket. I bought the black one (for 300mm?) as it is less $$$ than the white one but has the same dimensions.


boB

[KenW]

AW CRAP, something else to buy!

[Mac]

I use a monopod and set it at the balance point of the 10D/70-200 f4 combination, not the tripod socket. When I use a tripod the lens collar works much better than using the camera tripod socket. I bought the black one (for 300mm?) as it is less $$$ than the white one but has the same dimensions.


boB

Exactly what I was going to say...:D:D:D

[jbradc]

I got one for my 70-200 F4 L and it makes a big difference. It is expensive but worth it.

[booggerg]

If only the cheaper imitation collar wasn't black.....

[Mike H]

I bought one and won't leave home without it. It works so well that I wish they made these for most of the longer zoom and telephoto lenses. It reduces camera shake at slower speeds, and reduces your fatigue from holding the camera and lens combination. You'll find that switching back and forth from vertical to horizontal is kinda fun once you have this accessory. I use my 70-200/4L and tripod collar with the 1D Mark II, and the whole setup balances beautifully.

Mike H

[robertwgross]

If only the cheaper imitation collar wasn't black.....

Spray paint it Canon-white.

---Bob Gross---

[KrisForsberg]

I actually use an old *shrug* Tamron collar. The collar is somewhat slimmer, but fits well enough to balace the 70-200 on a 10D body perfectly.
Yes, I know it's close to blasphemy, but it works great, it's lighter than the original and I paid next to nothing. Great for a student with a thight budget.
I know I wouldn't even think of paying the price canon want's for an original - it's close to robbery.

Kris

[tommykjensen]

I don't have a collar for my 70-200 f4. I have had no problems on neither tripod or monopod.

[tim]

AW CRAP, something else to buy!

Welcome to photography! There's always something else to buy. What you have to realise though is a good photographer can get good results with average equipment, where as bad photographer can have the best equipment in the world and still take terrible photos. Equipment matters, but the photographer is more important.

[elkootcho]

Where can I find a non-Canon collar? Are they SIGNIFICANTLY cheaper?

If only the cheaper imitation collar wasn't black.....

[HJMinard]

I got the black one for Christmas ... a big improvement in handling feel in my opinion. I don't think the mount is in any danger without it, but it definitely feels better balanced.

By the way ... the black looks fine - it would be ridiculous to spend extra for (off) white paint.