Another airshow question

[Retired_97]

So, I'm going to the Lakeland, FL airshow this week. The Thunderbirds will be there.

What I have in the way of lenses for my 40D is:

70-200mm f/4 IS L with or w/o a 1.4x II extender
17-55mm f/2.8
50mm f/1.4

Please don't recommend another longer lens at this time, it just isn't in the budget. :(

I run hot and cold when it comes to taking pics of fast moving aircraft. Some come out good, some NOT so good. :D

Static displays are not usually a problem problem. I will use the 17-55mm and 50mm for these.

I've read and re-read the tips here on shooting aircraft/airshows. I plan on shooting in Tv w/the 70-200, IS on of course, stabilizer mode 2.

I'm not yet sure about using the 1.4x extender. I don't really care for the IQ when I use this.

The 40D will be set on Al Servo and low speed continuous.

Does this sound like a good plan?

I take pictures and usually pretty good ones but, I do not consider myself a photographer, if you know what I mean.

I see some really great photos poster here of flying planes and just can't figure out how some of you get these. Don't you ever take bad shots? :D

Thanks for any tips.

[PhotosGuy]

I plan on shooting in Tv w/the 70-200, IS on of course, stabilizer mode 2. Shooting airshows in Manual (http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=766329) I'm not yet sure about using the 1.4x extender. I don't really care for the IQ when I use this. If you don't like it, don't use it. But others seem to have no problem with that combination & I have no problem using the 2X TC with the f/2.8 version. The 40D will be set on Al Servo and low speed continuous. IMO, you're better off picking your shots one at a time.

Have fun, & be sure to look at the "Similar Threads" links at the bottom-left of this page, too.

[Retired_97]

Thanks for the response. I've read thru your previous posts, excellent info however, I don't see myself using Manual for shooting an airshow.

Like I said, I take pictures but I'm not a photographer.

I usually shoot moving things like planes in the continuous mode and weed out the bad ones and keep the "keepers." :)

I have not had much luck w/my 1.4x extender on my 70-200 since day one. Maybe it's me?