A saguaro gathering

Cool capture!

icassell wrote in post #14361621
Rick, are you using the Canon 2X extender? Since I know that no 500/4 is in my future, I've been looking at 300's with 2X. Looking at the Sigma 120-300 f/2.8 OS and the Canon 300/2.8. The Sigma is so much cheaper, but leaning toward a used Canon (which I should be able to afford before I die). I know that I'll never be able to afford the MkII version.

Ian,

This all came about when I saw a used older (non-IS) 500 for sale. After much discussion with my wife (who pushed for IS!) and a few other 500 owners, I gravitated towards the 300 2.8 IS. A friend forwarded a few pics shot with this and the canon 1.4 and 2x extenders and they were great. I can hand hold this lens, at least for a bit, and it seems to be a better fit for my style of shooting. I still haven't put it to a thorough test tho, I need to set aside more tripod time. (I usually drive and shoot what's interesting, haven't taken the time to hit a destination and properly set up).

I got lucky when a local camera shop told me they just took a bunch of Canon gear in from a guy who made a Nikon switch. The 300 (not Mk II) and the canon MkII 2x was a part of that, and I ended up with them. (I already had the Tamron 1.4 SP, but probably should have bought the Canon 1.4 which was there as well. The Tamron seems quite good tho).

The most recent Snowy's in my Flickr acct and the Osprey were mostly with the 2x, feel free to check them out, and the Exif data to be sure.

If you want add'l pics, I can send the e mail my friend sent me, just let me know.

I love the lens, and if for some reason I change my mind, I don't see myself losing any money on a resale.

Good luck!

Ian,

Like everyone else, I'm inspired by your photograph. When I first saw it, I immediately called my wife over so she could see it also...high praise, indeed.

Thanks for sharing it with us.