70.200 2.8 on the 5d or 20d for sports?

[John Mac]

Just received my 70-200 2.8 last week. I have a big sports gig on Sunday, and I,m torn between using the 70-200 on my 20d or on the 5d with a 1.4 converter. I know the fps on the 20d is more, but having used the 5d for a few games (Gaelic Football) I found the image quality better.. Its in a big stadium, so I wont be too close to the action. With the 1.4 on the 20d be the best option methinks?? Would I lose much on quality? Thanks in advance.

5d & 20d
17-40L
70-200 2.8L
17-85 EFs
Tammy 28-75 2.8
50 1.8 (11)
2 x 580ex
www.jmac.ie

[jrjphoto]

Slightly noticeable image loss with the converter. Plus loss of the 2.8 aprature. If you're shooting low-light sports that is NOT an option. If you'd be losing image quality with the converter to get it close to the 1.6 FOVCF on the 20D whose quality is still very good...I'd say this:

Just shoot with the 20D and take advantage of that 2.8 and 215mm focal length equivalent. Image quality is still awesome cuz it's the 20D. I personally own the 20D and am eagerly awaiting my 70-200 f/2.8 for American Football coverage from the sidelines. Next up will be the 300mm...

[convergent]

I would, without hesitation go with the 20D and TC1.4. I find the 20D more responsive and the 1.6 crop will help get you closer. There will be those that respond and say that this is rubbish since you can crop the 5D image to get to the same resolution, essentially. I say this is invalid because having the subject larger in the frame when you take the picture, will allow you to get a sharper image. For what's worth, I have several 1DMk2Ns, a 20D, and a 5D. The 5D would be the last body I'd bring to an action shoot, unless there were some extenuating circumstances that led me to want the larger images or wider angle.

[John Mac]

Thanks for the advice guys, much appreciated.