Canon EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM

[dolina]

http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4143/4928166125_e65f544e94_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/4928166125/)
EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM (http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup/ef_400mm_f_2_8_is_ii_usm) ship in December 2010 @ $11,000 (AF-S Nikkor 400mm f/2.8G ED VR Autofocus Lens $8,899.95)

http://www.flickr.com/groups/ef_400mm_f28l_is_ii_usm/

Update: Ship by March 2011

[dolina]

370 days after announcement.

Someone took delivery this week before BH or Adorama started shipping.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/canonmonster/6101654446/in/contacts/

Unboxing video = http://www.flickr.com/photos/canonmonster/6101733428/in/contacts/

400mm IS II to the left and 800mm IS to the right.

http://farm7.static.flickr.com/6198/6101654446_a5ee2b848d_b.jpg

[airbutchie]

Double WOOF!!!

:D

[agv8or]

Definitely on my short list and at only 8 1/2 pounds, more than 3 1/4 pounds lighter than the 400 f2.8 ver I as well as a little lighter and 4 inches shorter than the new 600 f4 II, it is very appealing.

[R.J. MacReady]

370 days after announcement.

Someone took delivery this week before BH or Adorama started shipping.

http://www.flickr.com/photos/canonmonster/6101654446/in/contacts/

Unboxing video = http://www.flickr.com/photos/canonmonster/6101733428/in/contacts/

Thanks!

It will be nice to see how much better is ver. II over ver. I
So far I've found only a few photos shot using pre-production lens: http://www.popphoto.com/gallery/sample-images-canon-400mm-f28l

[dolina]

Instruction Manual for the 400mm IS II

http://gdlp01.c-wss.com/gds/6/0300005626/01/ef-300mm-f2.8l-is-ii-usm-c-en.pdf

[FuturamaJSP]

How much do they pay for a kidney nowadays?

[airvincent]

Anyone compare this lens with Mark I yet?

[Trek_203]

EF 400mm f/2.8L IS II USM (http://www.usa.canon.com/cusa/consumer/products/cameras/ef_lens_lineup/ef_400mm_f_2_8_is_ii_usm) ship in December 2010 @ $11,000 (AF-S Nikkor 400mm f/2.8G ED VR Autofocus Lens $8,899.95) http://www.flickr.com/groups/ef_400mm_f28l_is_ii_usm/ (http://www.flickr.com/groups/ef_400mm_f28l_is_ii_usm/)

Update: Ship by March 2011

any idea when it'll be available again?

I need to claim it with passion according to my therapist....
you will be mine sweet precious... :twisted: :twisted: :twisted:

LOL!!! Kidding aside. I'd love to own one but this is too much $$$ for me. Oh, well... we'll see... lets cross the bridge when we get there.

[R.J. MacReady]

What I see is a small improvement in terms of sharpness at 400mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=0&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0

and deterioration both at 560mm (ex. 1.4x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

and at 800mm (ex. 2x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

The first copy of 400mm f/2.8 IS II L is even worse at 800mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=2

[S.Horton]

In some cases, I suspect the II line has more to do with matching Nikon's higher prices to make more money than anything else.

[walmartmartyr]

What I see is a small improvement in terms of sharpness at 400mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=0&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0

and deterioration both at 560mm (ex. 1.4x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

and at 800mm (ex. 2x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

The first copy of 400mm f/2.8 IS II L is even worse at 800mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=2

the old lens looks sharper to me at 400

[alainphoto]

suscribed ! I want to see images made this that thing :)

too expensive to use 5 times a year, but would love to rent is sometimes for dances ...

[CanonFanBoy]

They look sizzling.

[I DREAD ME]

Just got my tracking number. I will touch it on Friday
Any requests

[agv8or]

Just got my tracking number. I will touch it on Friday
Any requests

Congrats on the new purchase. Just shoot what you normally shoot as any images are better than no images to get this thread off and running. Paired with your 1DmIV this should make for a great combo and I for one am looking forward to any images of wildlife or portraits taken with the pair. I would also like to see some portraits with this lens and a 5DmII. Those would be my choices if you're filling requests.

I hope to have added this lens to my stable by this time next year but with my compulsive behavior disorder I will also have to add a 1.4X III and 2X III teleconverters along with a 1DmIV at the same time so I have alot of saving to do between now and then.

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

There's actually a thread over on FM of some football photos taken with this lens that are absolutely AMAZING!! Quite easily some of the SHARPEST photos I've ever seen taken with ANY lens. (I'd post the link, but I'm not sure if that's allowed.) But it's in the forums, under Canon-mount SLRs - the title of the thread is 400mm 2.8 II in action.

Just in case some would like a looksee at some of the images it is capable of producing.

[I DREAD ME]

UPS was a day early
560197
I am going to sneak out to the Bolsa Chica wetlands at lunch and give it a spin.
I love the new case. It has 2 spots for the TC's
I wanted to buy the new 600mm but I thought I would try the 400 with the 1.4tc to see if that was good enough. If not I will sell it and get the 600.

[agv8or]

^^^^^^^^^^^^^

That is one sexy lens. Are you going to handhold it or mainly use a tripod? Looking forward to your pics.

[I DREAD ME]

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
1/6400 sec
ISO 100
560241
100% Crop
560242

[emelvee]

^ WOW. Subscribing as well - I want to see these pictures!!!

[x_tan]

That is scary!

[I DREAD ME]

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
1/3200 sec
ISO 400
560251

100% crop
560252

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

That lens is mother fricken S-H-A-R-P!!!

In fact it should come with a box of bandages!

[I DREAD ME]

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
1/5000 sec
ISO 400 (Don't ask)
560255

100% Crop
560256

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

Have you tried it with the 1.4x TC yet? I'm sure it won't disappoint.

[I DREAD ME]

Have you tried it with the 1.4x TC yet? I'm sure it won't disappoint.

Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
1.4x TC
f/4.0
1/800 sec
ISO 100
Bad lighting
560262

100% Crop
560263

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

TFP. Not bad with the TC.

[agv8or]

Some very nice images to start off this thread. Are you using the new Canon III TC?

[I DREAD ME]

All the above pictures were hand held.
Focus was not spot on. I did not micro adjust before the pictures.
When I got home I went through the ritual and the lens needed a micro adjustment of +5.
I will go back out and take some more sample shots in the next few days.

[Trek_203]

:eek: droooool

[I DREAD ME]

From today
I love living in Surf City
Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
ISO 100
1/4000 sec
560498

100% Crop
560499

[I DREAD ME]

From Today
Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/5.6
1/1250 sec
ISO 100
560501

100% Crop
560500

[I DREAD ME]

From today
Not a great shot but if you new what the background really looked like.
Love the "Bokeh"
I have always had a hard time getting the exposure right with this bird
Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
1/5000 sec
ISO 100
560507

100% Crop
560506

[Fricks]

dang this is a sharp lens...

[dolina]

From today
I love living in Surf City
Canon EOS-1D Mark IV
f/2.8
ISO 100
1/4000 sec
560498

100% Crop
560499

That 100% Crop sold me on the lens! Now to knock off Fort Knox. bw!

[jackljane]

Keep it coming.. It is still not available in my country.. :( but it give me time to save.. :D with the 1DX.. I wonder what this two would be like paired together.. dream---

[ChuckingFluff]

Dolina you have all the sweet toys!! Now that the MKii is out us poorer people can start picking up the originals for a decent price. Maybe

[I DREAD ME]

Keep it coming.. It is still not available in my country.. :( but it give me time to save.. :D with the 1DX.. I wonder what this two would be like paired together.. dream---

I am already on the list for the 1DX. I should be one of the first to touch it.
Can't wait.
I will post some more pictures this weekend. We have had bad fog and overcast skies the last week. No good for pictures

[jackljane]

I am already on the list for the 1DX. I should be one of the first to touch it.
Can't wait.
I will post some more pictures this weekend. We have had bad fog and overcast skies the last week. No good for pictures

That is so awesome... I am so jealous.. I don't want to make same mistake of buying canon product from other country.. my 70-200 was bought from hong kong and my 16-35 was bought from japan.. when they first came out.. problem is, Canon service center in my country would charge for services for item with international warranty.. so I would not repeat that mistake again.. now I wait..

I have a request though.. please share night sporting event with us.. please keep some EXIF in your photos.. I want to know the Shutter Speed, ISO and Aperture.. Wonder if the acclaimed of 4 stop IS in this one is really that good..

[dolina]

Dolina you have all the sweet toys!! Now that the MKii is out us poorer people now I can start picking up the originals for a decent price. Maybe

Oh! I wish that were only true. :lol:

Here's the definitive review of this lens http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-400mm-f-2.8-L-IS-II-USM-Lens-Review.aspx

[Kayak photo]

Those 100% crops look like the full size image from a lot of lenses. Nothing short of exceptional!

[butterfly2937]

I would love to see some shots with the 2X 111 attached. If those look good this could also be a nice wildlife lens!

[alainphoto]

proper is review available :)

http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-400mm-f-2.8-L-IS-II-USM-Lens-Review.aspx

[airvincent]

Finally my 400mm f2.8L IS II here ! I will post some product shots later :grin:

Anyone from Australia receive it yet?

[I DREAD ME]

Early morning just after sunrise
Canon EOS-1D Mark IV + TC 1.4 x III - 400mm f/2.8L is II
f/4
ISO-200
1/2500 sec.
Uncropped
562721

[dolina]

Woah!

[airvincent]

Finally...........

563208

563209

[britinjapan]

Lucky!

[airvincent]

Just some lens sharpness tests

1Ds MK III 1/100 f/2.8 ISO1600 handheld - stright from camera

563443

with 100% crop

563444

[airvincent]

1Ds MK III 1/200 f/4.5 ISO400 handheld - stright from camera

563445

100% crop

563446

[dolina]

Vincent lovely test. How about shutter speeds slower than 1/100 like 1/50 to 1 sec?

How do you like the lens balance on a 1-Series body?

[airvincent]

Vincent lovely test. How about shutter speeds slower than 1/100 like 1/50 to 1 sec?

How do you like the lens balance on a 1-Series body?

I did tried handheld 1/50 sec, still no problem :) and the balance better than Mark I (not that head heavy), also the weight I could handhold for much longer period ! I am happy with the results so far ;)

[str8six]

Got mine yesterday. Why the extra foot?

(football tonight in the snow)

[dolina]

Got mine yesterday. Why the extra foot?

(football tonight in the snow)

Smaller foot = monopod
Bigger foot = tripod

If possible kindly post shots from tonight's game.

I did tried handheld 1/50 sec, still no problem :smile: and the balance better than Mark I (not that head heavy), also the weight I could handhold for much longer period ! I am happy with the results so far :wink:

How about 1/25, 1/10 & 1/5? Glad to know that the Version 2 is working out for you. :D A friend who works at a photo agency was so glowing about it when the prototype was present at the Australian Open

[I DREAD ME]

Aviation Nation yesterday
I will post more in the next few days
565007

[I DREAD ME]

1/250 sec.
f/5.6
hand held
565011

[I DREAD ME]

full frame - uncropped
f/2.8
1/1000 sec.
ISO-100
handheld
565784

[alexg730428]

Hello guys,

I just got this beast a week ago, and I did a quick handheld test, believe me this thing is heavy and big so I got a new tripod and a Wimberley head. I haven't tested yet with the new tripod.
I'm planing to travel with this lens so I'm looking for a carry-on camera bag/backpack, I would prefer a rolling camera bag. Any suggestions? This lens with the hood on and reversed is a little bigger than the previous version.

full frame - uncropped f/2.8 1/4000 ISO-200
http://i56.tinypic.com/2hed0rc.jpg

cropped
http://i53.tinypic.com/j6ist4.jpg

[maxloxton]

Has anybody tested this lens against the MK I version ? I wanna know the first hand information on that as I don't want to spend 4-5k more on this lens

[str8six]

The real test (and pass) for me was the fact that I could hand hold the new version. I hang it from an R strap and pull it up to my eye on a 1D body with no problem. Shot two football games like this. I could never do that with the original. Lugging the original around on a Wimbery equipped tripod or even a monopod did not offer the same freedom. I am very pleased with my purchase.

Yes, spending the extra $4.5K did hurt though :)

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

@ str8six:

It would be great if you could post some of the football shots you took with this lens please.

Would love to see them.

[maxloxton]

Besides the light weight; how is the quality. I have heard that people say that it is not as sharp as the MK 1 version. Have you noticed any difference?

[tomcat7886]

Nice lense to have. But bulkyness puts me off. :(

[str8six]

remind me again, 1024 on the long side and less than 150k to post a photo?

[Canonswhitelensesrule]

remind me again, 1024 on the long side and less than 150k to post a photo?

I believe so, yes.

[str8six]

1/250, 2.8, ISO 12,800
(-15C)
hand held, IS 3 mode, imported into LR 3, exported to Flickr (2000 pixels on the long side), copied off Flickr (at work) and resized to 1024 (CS5) on long side and saved as JPG (level 7 to get below 150 kb). I'm sure something gets lost in the translation but you could count his eye lashes on the original without sharpening...

[dolina]

Not a bad image str8six!

Owner's of the 400mm IS II:

How is your AI Servo accuracy rate with the lens? Are you getting as good a keeper rate as the version 1? What bodies are you using your version 2 with as well?

[airvincent]

Not a bad image str8six!

Owner's of the 400mm IS II:

How is your AI Servo accuracy rate with the lens? Are you getting as good a keeper rate as the version 1? What bodies are you using your version 2 with as well?

dolina

So far I don't feel any issue with AI Servo, but I am going to shoot 2012 Australian Open again and I will test it out

[Zivnuska]

1/250, 2.8, ISO 12,800
(-15C)
hand held, IS 3 mode, imported into LR 3, exported to Flickr (2000 pixels on the long side), copied off Flickr (at work) and resized to 1024 (CS5) on long side and saved as JPG (level 7 to get below 150 kb). I'm sure something gets lost in the translation but you could count his eye lashes on the original without sharpening...

I'm impressed. A lot.

[dolina]

Finally...

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7164/6490943041_897d31952a_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6490943041/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6490943041/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6491494549_d3b4977843_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491494549/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491494549/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6492480179_ee073fa3d1_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492480179/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492480179/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[FlyingPhotog]

remind me again, 1024 on the long side and less than 150k to post a photo?

You can be at higher than 150Kb if you're hot-linking from a sharing site and not uploading as an attachment directly to POTN.

The 1024X size requirement still holds though.

[str8six]

ok, thanks

[dolina]

As framed

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7024/6509937161_0de4856335_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6509937161/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6509937161/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

98% magnification crop.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6491495069_9bc1c6c9a6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491495069/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491495069/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[vbudihardjo]

good stuffs...keep em coming pls

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7030/6518738079_d455bae42e_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518738079/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518738079/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6518790625_cffa44d017_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518790625/)
Global Football Club (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518790625/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6492564081_146b827fdf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492564081/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492564081/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[Zivnuska]

Wonderful bokeh.

[dolina]

Wonderful bokeh.
I know, right! :lol:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6518932877_3c7b541ed5_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518932877/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6518932877/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[mikewinburn]

What I see is a small improvement in terms of sharpness at 400mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=0&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=0&APIComp=0

and deterioration both at 560mm (ex. 1.4x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=1&API=1&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=3&APIComp=0

and at 800mm (ex. 2x):

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=1&FLI=2&API=2&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=1

The first copy of 400mm f/2.8 IS II L is even worse at 800mm:

http://the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=741&Camera=453&Sample=0&FLI=2&API=0&LensComp=327&CameraComp=453&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=4&APIComp=2



This is interesting... though not unexpected. This mirrors what Canon did with the 70-200 IS II... the focus was on getting wide open super sharp at the expense of the stopped down apertures. The 70-200 IS 1 can't touch the 70-200 IS 2 at 2.8... but around 4.0/5.6 the differences are negligible and the IS 1 wins after 8.0 in my book.... of course, thats just one area... the coating on the 2 outperforms 1 in all cases... and flare is dramatically reduced in the 2 (but i love the flare of the 1 :) )

In days gone by, widest apertures were "there when you need it"... but seems a lot of focus today is everything besides "wide open" is "there when you need it".

[mikewinburn]

As framed

98% magnification crop.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6491495069_9bc1c6c9a6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491495069/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6491495069/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

Hey Dolina,
This image is incredible for 2.8 400mm super crisp.... thats the power of the new 400 2.8 IS II! nice shot...

is the yellow cast post processing choice or staduim lighting? curious only

[dolina]

Hey Dolina,
This image is incredible for 2.8 400mm super crisp.... thats the power of the new 400 2.8 IS II! nice shot...

is the yellow cast post processing choice or staduim lighting? curious only
Choice of color profile. It has since been corrected. ;)

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7152/6537351091_f767ef0ff3_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537351091/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537351091/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6537364535_d879b8bd06_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537364535/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537364535/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6537387497_a13e381ec2_z.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537387497/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537387497/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6537396199_1eb79959fd_o.jpg (http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6537396199_1eb79959fd_o.jpg)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6537396199/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[mikewinburn]

nicely shot! I love the 1200 ISO - clean and kinda looks like 400 ISO film... beautiful...
does the focus stop work with the 7D as well?

[dolina]

nicely shot! I love the 1200 ISO - clean and kinda looks like 400 ISO film... beautiful...
does the focus stop work with the 7D as well?
Thank you for the kind comment.

How do I use focus stop?

For the football images I posted I used a 5D2 and 7D as almost all the feedback posted on the internet involves the 400 being used with the 1-Series body.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6502407559_0923b4672c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6502407559/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6502407559/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7031/6503356935_66649467b5_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503356935/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503356935/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7175/6503356309_89c9906093_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503356309/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503356309/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7012/6503355577_92def6f2af_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503355577/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6503355577/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[mikewinburn]

The Focus Preset stop is a switch/button on the lens. It allows autofocus to be temporarily stopped or "locked" into one position... like if you were going to focus/recompose for a framing that places the focus point elsewhere.

I was wondering if focus stop was helpful using the 7D... I don't hear too many folks who use it to confirm its usefulness. Just curious.

While the Focus Stop (AF-Stop Button/switch) is a little different - not sure its usefulness on the 7D ...For 1D4 users though, the autofocus-stop button is the only button that can be used to activate SPOT AF - (SPOT AF reduces the size of the focus spot for more accurate focusing, and significantly better low light focus perfomance...significantly better... and only lenses with an AF-STOP button on them can activate SPOT-AF on the 1D4 [the 7D Spot-AF can be used w/ all lenses... go figure?]) ... so, again, just curious its usefulness on a 7D.

(i'd be interested to see if they implement SPOT-AF for all lenses with the 1DX)

[dolina]

The Focus Preset stop is a switch/button on the lens. It allows autofocus to be temporarily stopped or "locked" into one position... like if you were going to focus/recompose for a framing that places the focus point elsewhere.

I was wondering if focus stop was helpful using the 7D... I don't hear too many folks who use it to confirm its usefulness. Just curious.

While the Focus Stop (AF-Stop Button/switch) is a little different - not sure its usefulness on the 7D ...For 1D4 users though, the autofocus-stop button is the only button that can be used to activate SPOT AF - (SPOT AF reduces the size of the focus spot for more accurate focusing, and significantly better low light focus perfomance...significantly better... and only lenses with an AF-STOP button on them can activate SPOT-AF on the 1D4 [the 7D Spot-AF can be used w/ all lenses... go figure?]) ... so, again, just curious its usefulness on a 7D.

(i'd be interested to see if they implement SPOT-AF for all lenses with the 1DX)I have yet to use the focus preset stop but should integrate it into my workflow.

I assign the af stop button for spot af on the 1d4.

[mikewinburn]

thanks for the touch back... if you decide to use either with your 7D i'd be interested in usefulness results.
But keep these 400 2.8 IS 2 images coming... nice to see what "top of the line" could be getting me :)

[vbudihardjo]

Hi,

I lent my friend my 400mm f/2.8 MK2 lens as he wanted to test it with 7D and 1D MK4 bodies.

Here's the link: http://www.flickr.com/photos/31617897@N03/

http://www.flickr.com/photos/31617897@N03/

[vbudihardjo]

Some shots with 400mm f/2.8 MK2, handheld (not a good weather):

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6525588205_91069e65bb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6525588205/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6525570659_4132c43a86_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6525570659/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6525568803_4e11d561c3_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6525568803/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7141/6525558597_ac3284a4fa_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6525558597/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6531647197_a08e60cba0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6531647197/)

[mikewinburn]

thanks for the link! Valuable.
Wow... love these shots... hand-held!?!... #2 faved!

still trying to wrap my head around its hand-hold-ability-weight-thing.
This thread is not good for me.... somehow i thought i was done after my Elinchrom light purchase set for January! haha... seems if i charge a bit more for my intra-mural shooting services, this might be in hand by end of 2012....hhhmmmm

[dolina]

How is my color temp now? I proof in sRGB and embed a sRGB profile into the jpg. Looking at it on an uncalibrated LCD looks snow white.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6567371991_21e21243e8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6567371991/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6567371991/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[I DREAD ME]

EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM
570647

[I DREAD ME]

EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM
No crop
570648

[I DREAD ME]

EF400mm f/2.8L IS II USM
No crop
570654

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6492566757_355fb2c1ee_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492566757/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492566757/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[mikewinburn]

How is my color temp now? I proof in sRGB and embed a sRGB profile into the jpg. Looking at it on an uncalibrated LCD looks snow white.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6567371991_21e21243e8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6567371991/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6567371991/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6492566757_355fb2c1ee_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492566757/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6492566757/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

the first pic looks dead on... the second returns to the yellow/green cast

[vbudihardjo]

400mm f/2.8 Mark 2 lens with 2x Extender (Mark 3), handheld. Not recommended as it is heavy (I just wanted to test).

Here are some sample shots on the black eagle:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6629197155_cb4cbcecab_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629197155/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7142/6629211681_ba5d8d0876_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629211681/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6629214155_1836e6da6a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629214155/)

[vbudihardjo]

400mm f/2.8 Mark 2 lens with 2x Extender (Mark 3). Some other shots:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6629399333_b4eb189fd1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629399333/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6629423909_0ef27da117_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629423909/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6629352587_958c5ce6e7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629352587/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7006/6629331465_7fa447afbf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629331465/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7035/6629291265_954bacd022_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629291265/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7147/6629293971_968599fe58_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629293971/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7159/6629179073_c92a166c27_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629179073/)

[emelvee]

Wow all these bird shots are amazing. All we get around here are magpies ... maybe a sparrow or bluejay or two if you're lucky ;)

[vbudihardjo]

Shots with 400mm f/2.8 Mark 2 lens without Extender:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6629177187_5870667dda_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629177187/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6629162687_7afc628d15_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629162687/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7160/6629110807_f95124e077_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629110807/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6629012685_de6bd12f9c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629012685/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6628937323_508b181934_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628937323/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7172/6628929977_13f2f91e9e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628929977/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7014/6628837121_d20852977c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628837121/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6628862835_c2b06a20db_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628862835/)

[vbudihardjo]

Another set, shot without Extender:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6629092279_c759601946_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629092279/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6628661889_5eb219bb4e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628661889/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6628648825_612d8e692d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628648825/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6628645431_41c22957fb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628645431/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6628641219_330e745a29_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628641219/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6628629455_f1f1a01bf0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628629455/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6628598875_feab4a72d9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628598875/)

[commonjunks]

Damn Vinchel, you went to Thailand?

[dolina]

As framed

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6630129161_10fff43752_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6630129161/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6630129161/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

100% crop

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7009/6630131531_317dbf0ff6_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6630131531/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6630131531/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[vbudihardjo]

waqar...a few days in Sri Lanka :) wish had more time

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7151/6629104689_9b602dcc9c_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6629104689/)
Meralco vs Philippine AIr Force (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6629104689/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7020/6666591809_bf5c7f389e_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6666591809/)
Blue-tailed Bee-eater (Merops philippinu) (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6666591809/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

This species has an extremely large range, and hence does not approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the range size criterion (Extent of Occurrence 30% decline over ten years or three generations). The population size has not been quantified, but it is not believed to approach the thresholds for Vulnerable under the population size criterion (10% in ten years or three generations, or with a specified population structure). For these reasons the species is evaluated as Least Concern.

Source: http://www.birdlife.org/datazone/speciesfactsheet.php?id=1179

[vbudihardjo]

Night shots:

400mm f/2.8 M2:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6659845241_bba1f1c1b8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6659845241/)

400mm f/2.8 M2 with 2x M3 Extender:
http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7171/6659859623_825dec97f8_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6659859623/)

[mek501st]

Another set, shot without Extender:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7153/6629092279_c759601946_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6629092279/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6628661889_5eb219bb4e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628661889/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6628648825_612d8e692d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628648825/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7157/6628645431_41c22957fb_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628645431/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6628641219_330e745a29_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628641219/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7156/6628629455_f1f1a01bf0_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628629455/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7003/6628598875_feab4a72d9_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6628598875/)

Extremely Amazing Kingfisher shots! Where were these taken?

[commonjunks]

Extremely Amazing Kingfisher shots! Where were these taken?

Sri Lanka

[vbudihardjo]

A few other recent shots, all taken with 400mm f/2.8 M2 + 2x TC (M3):

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7162/6705151321_74e4bdf6c6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6705151321/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7025/6705240181_6d82429f83_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6705240181/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7146/6705134167_577fb30505_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6705134167/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7149/6705229231_02a360db02_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6705229231/)

[jackljane]

vbudihardjo, How was the sharpness, contrast and color with the 400II+TC2III, in your opinion..

[vbudihardjo]

jackljane, I think the sharpness is out of the world, with TC2III on. Go back a few pages with my posts on the picture samples, without TC, with 1.4x TC, and with 2.0x TC and see for yourself and let me know what you think :)...this lens works well on handheld too (without TC; and OK with 1.4x TC), but not exactly lightweight.

[jackljane]

jackljane, I think the sharpness is out of the world, with TC2III on. Go back a few pages with my posts on the picture samples, without TC, with 1.4x TC, and with 2.0x TC and see for yourself and let me know what you think :)...this lens works well on handheld too (without TC; and OK with 1.4x TC), but not exactly lightweight.

That is all I need to hear.. I am sold and now to find the budget to get them..

[Buttkicker]

I need to be subscribed to this thread

[vbudihardjo]

I'm loving this lens...while price tag is rather high, performance is good.

Below are some other recent shots (some taken from the boat)...Enjoy!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6793851289_ea556fe7af_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793851289/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7168/6791849481_a660a5ecf2_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791849481/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7001/6793281019_3e020abf25_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793281019/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6793085683_7fa176bfe6_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793085683/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7154/6793337227_fd70e8c754_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793337227/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7166/6791521423_c4aa4d14be_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791521423/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7161/6791782229_8c23b4d692_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791782229/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7018/6792103153_bd881b0bae_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6792103153/)

[vbudihardjo]

Sample, part 2:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7032/6792514631_10328a4134_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6792514631/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7011/6792945899_f39c1e4d5d_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6792945899/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7026/6790600089_07d37e149c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6790600089/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6790101251_39077a39ef_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6790101251/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7022/6793760503_7482120ecf_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793760503/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7016/6793593745_b4117f603a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793593745/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7007/6793255751_3143d4cdf1_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793255751/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7021/6793153299_7295bdc86c_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6793153299/)

[vbudihardjo]

Samples, part 3:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7027/6791772781_4b1a217311_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791772781/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7170/6791625519_5c7fb5cf6e_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791625519/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7167/6791679567_9116c6a848_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6791679567/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7173/6790430281_cb646b438a_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6790430281/)

[xrayhead]

Amazing lens!!!! How do I get £8000 to pay for one?

[vbudihardjo]

lucky there is a 36-month 0% installment plan offered here...otherwise, a lump sum would look like a hard sell.

[stinky]

Where is "here?"

lucky there is a 36-month 0% installment plan offered here...otherwise, a lump sum would look like a hard sell.

[vbudihardjo]

Singapore

[dolina]

vbudihardjo... you are so lucky!

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7143/6633793437_71fc665a13_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6633793437/)
Global vs Kaya (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6633793437/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dioladetus]

So far this lens seems fantastic, picked it up from canon today, to bring for my trip up north in a few days. Brought it to the beach with my dogs. Fast autofocus, amazing colours it produces.
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5255816/photos_for_FM/Strandp%C3%B8lse_400mm.jpg

[vbudihardjo]

400mm f/2.8 M2 recent shots handheld:

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7038/6906873313_1ac754dbda_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6906873313/)

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7040/6906938519_f8d8394da7_b.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/vinchel/6906938519/)

[dolina]

Vinchel kick ass shots!

[dolina]

Best lens I have ever used, period.

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7192/6781957880_1e752aa0a8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6781957880/)
Cebu White vs Philippine Aguila (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6781957880/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[S.Horton]

Kidney for sale.

[dolina]

Kidney for sale.

Thank god for stem cells! :D

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6783242508_ddcd3b2d48_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6783242508/)
1st Asian Flag Football Championship: Team Cebu vs Manila Aguila (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6783242508/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7193/6930483715_d22a7c8d63_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6930483715/)
1st Asian Flag Football Championship: China Red Star vs UFFC Cebu Guardians (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6930483715/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[mattymx]

Special thanks to a fellow shooter who allowed me the chance to play with his lens for a little while today. Handheld, too! Too bad there wasn't a CPL with it. But that is just my style when I shoot with lots of sky in the BG.

http://www.mattymx.com/Sports/The-War-of-Rails-2012/i-XxhbWdS/0/XL/IMG3810-XL.jpg

http://www.mattymx.com/Sports/The-War-of-Rails-2012/i-vzc93fC/0/XL/IMG3774-XL.jpg

http://www.mattymx.com/Sports/The-War-of-Rails-2012/i-CMTQLMJ/0/XL/IMG3846-XL.jpg

http://www.mattymx.com/Sports/The-War-of-Rails-2012/i-kgvkL6w/0/XL/IMG3871-XL.jpg

[vbudihardjo]

dolina & mattymx: awesome sport shots!!!

[mattymx]

dolina & mattymx: awesome sport shots!!!

Thank you. I had a blast shooting with that lens for the first time.

[dioladetus]

Fantastic shots everyone!
Dolina, you always perform great no matter the lens ;)

I brought this lens to northern sweden, hoping to find golden eagles. A 50% crop, but a bird nonetheless. I love the colours this lens produces.

http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5255816/Kalvtrask/2012/Eagle/lowrez/_90C9509.jpg

[vbudihardjo]

great shot dioladetus!!

[mattymx]

great shot dioladetus!!

bw!

[S.Horton]

Wow. Impressive capture regardless of the lens.

I see why Canon can charge so much for it. It is that good.

[dolina]

Heat haze really messes up focus and sharpness.

4.0MP crop

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7070/6945752843_6965709128_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6945752843/)
1st Asian Flag Football Championship: China Red Star vs UFFC Cebu Guardians (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6945752843/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

18MP frame

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7056/6945754181_71c2db6fc9_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6945754181/)
1st Asian Flag Football Championship: China Red Star vs UFFC Cebu Guardians (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6945754181/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7194/6802457474_41a60f3142_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6802457474/)
1st Asian Flag Football Championship: China Red Star vs UFFC Cebu Guardians (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6802457474/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dioladetus]

great illustration of heat haze!

here is one more of the golden eagle
http://dl.dropbox.com/u/5255816/Kalvtrask/2012/Eagle/lowrez/_90C9518.jpg

[Trek_203]

apart from the weight difference from the previous version, do you really think there's a significant change in image quality, colors and etc? Please let me know if you have used both...

I'm considering to get one but its a bit hefty. I'm not a pro and this is quite expensive for a hobby only.

Thanks

[S.Horton]

^^ I own the DO. But I drooled over the old 400 thread, and I can tell you that I didn't get it because with a 2X it just wasn't all that good. But, this one, holy smokes, look at the 2X shots. Stunning.

That means you are getting a useful 800 f/5.6 as well.

If you compare the two sample threads, you'll notice the bokeh is also better on the II.

That said, the price change is massive. So, I'm still torn, a bit like you.

And remeber, there's a 200-400 f/4 with built in TC on the way, confusing things even more.

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7209/6972872241_6ba342d7e8_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6972872241/)
Untitled (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6972872241/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[dolina]

http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7210/6829670024_1e24e95315_o.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6829670024/)
Tres Marias (http://www.flickr.com/photos/alabang/6829670024/) by alabang (http://www.flickr.com/people/alabang/), on Flickr

[Trek_203]

^^ I own the DO. But I drooled over the old 400 thread, and I can tell you that I didn't get it because with a 2X it just wasn't all that good. But, this one, holy smokes, look at the 2X shots. Stunning.

That means you are getting a useful 800 f/5.6 as well.

If you compare the two sample threads, you'll notice the bokeh is also better on the II.

That said, the price change is massive. So, I'm still torn, a bit like you.

And remeber, there's a 200-400 f/4 with built in TC on the way, confusing things even more.

Thank you for your feedback. I really like what I see here and the price is the only reason why I'm pushing back. I'd definitely buy this now if its only in 8K range. Well, I guess I better start saving my lunch money and come up with $11.5K by next year. LOL. These pro photogs are killing me! LOL!

[S.Horton]

With good support and some time with it, you can get technically the same results. What most don't have is access to the time and money to patiently get to the right place, at the right time. When I can swing it, I will get this lens. Like all the others, it will just get added.

[str8six]

apart from the weight difference from the previous version, do you really think there's a significant change in image quality, colors and etc? Please let me know if you have used both...

I'm considering to get one but its a bit hefty. I'm not a pro and this is quite expensive for a hobby only.

Thanks

the weight difference is the only reason I got this lens. I've used both and cannot see much (any?) difference without a multiplier.

With the new 1.4 III on it, it is definately sharper than the previous combo. I'm not a pro either but would not have been able to capture some shots that I have if it was not for the hand holdability of this lens. I really like it.