300/4 non-IS + 1.4x TC for Yellowstone?

I would get a monopod - that would solve the IS problem.

They will love those Nikon binoculars in Yellowstone. We have Monarchs, and the optics are great for the price.

1Tanker wrote in post #17083276
Yes...with the older versions(non tripod-sensing) of IS. The main issue here, is that someone not used to shooting a 12 inch lens (300L +1.4x tc ) on a dSLR..which they aren't adept at either, could be a tall order. Or.. the guy could turn out to be a natural.. with nerves of steel.

The IS on the current 300mm f/4 IS, is an older version of IS that is non-tripod sensing, so IS needs to be turned of while on tripod. Not that that would make a difference to the OP since he is looking at the old non-IS 300mm. I beleive the only other current production Canon IS that is non-sensing is the 28-135mm IS.

I agree with mikiort, I'd rather carry the monopod rather than the tripod. Though if they will traveling in their own vehicle, I would take a tripod too.

I forgot to say, that I do have a tripod and head combo that they can keep in the car. As for hikes, they'll probably just handhold it. I've tried the 300/4 on my 5DII handheld the last few days and am impressed. Of course, I have more experience and knowledge of exposure but I'm sure I can give them a crash course. I'll also be giving them the equipment several weeks early so they can practice and the park, zoo, etc.

Scott--Glad to hear a good review on the Monarchs. I'm wondering if I should've bought the 10x42 Eagle Optics Rangers instead. Can't wait to try them out in a few days!

jimewall wrote in post #17101975
The IS on the current 300mm f/4 IS, is an older version of IS that is non-tripod sensing, so IS needs to be turned of while on tripod. Not that that would make a difference to the OP since he is looking at the old non-IS 300mm. I believe the only other current production Canon IS that is non-sensing is the 28-135mm IS.

The 100-400L is non-sensing, too.

birder_herper wrote in post #17102012
Scott--Glad to hear a good review on the Monarchs. I'm wondering if I should've bought the 10x42 Eagle Optics Rangers instead. Can't wait to try them out in a few days!

I just checked - we own the exact same Monarch 10x42 binoculars. I am always amazed whenever we use them along side "budget" binoculars. On a couple of excursions in Alaska this summer, the tours provided other binoculars. I tried them out of curiosity, and they all paled in comparison. My wife uses them more than I do, as I'm usually looking through my 100-400L instead. She loves those Nikon binoculars. For less than $300, they are terrific.

"Just send them with a tripod!"

Or maybe a monopod. Or kill two birds with one stone, a walking stick with a camera holding top.

Scott M wrote in post #17102368
The 100-400L is non-sensing, too....

I forgot about that one, thanks!

i'd just get them an SX50HS....it's a whole lot easier to produce bad shots with a DSLR than a point and shoot...especially if you don't know what your using...

DreDaze wrote in post #17102560
i'd just get them an SX50HS....it's a whole lot easier to produce bad shots with a DSLR than a point and shoot...especially if you don't know what your using...

Yes, my first question was whether or not to give them an ultrazoom p&s or a DSLR rig. After conferring with them I decided the latter was the route to take.

All I know is if I went to a park to do wildlife I would have no other option than crop camera and the tamron 150-600.

I want to get in close BUT stay far far away

Talley wrote in post #17102956
All I know is if I went to a park to do wildlife I would have no other option than crop camera and the tamron 150-600.

I want to get in close BUT stay far far away

The distance to wildlife really varies in Yellowstone. I've been there five times, and had instances where my 17-55 f/2.8 (on a crop) was enough, and other times where 400mm on a crop wasn't nearly enough (and your 600mm wouldn't have been enough, either). You just have to work within the limitations of the equipment you have.

Talley wrote in post #17102956
All I know is if I went to a park to do wildlife I would have no other option than crop camera and the tamron 150-600.

I want to get in close BUT stay far far away

What did you do before the 150-600? It is a very new lens.