so...i have this wish list....

that I usually keep to myself
it is a list of the major purchases of gear that I want
i also put a reason by each item on the list - just to keep myself honest
and it prevents myself for buying things just for the sake of buying...

so on my list, I had the 100-400 II
my kids were in outside field type sports and that was my major reason for the lens.
In the meantime I used the 70-200 f4IS and it was ok. I was looking forward to getting super close.

and then my kids quit their sports and focused on other things.
which just took all my reasons and threw them out the window.
and according to my own rules - no lens can be on the list just because it is newer or just "because". there has to be a reason.

but i was disappointed since I have already saved up 2/3 the amount for the 100-400II!!! but I don't do BIF...and really have no other reason for 400mm.
oh well....
next on the list I suppose....

anyone else have a similar system for themselves?

On the other hand, lenses hold their value really well. So if you get a super long lens or a specialty lens, then find that you're not using it, you can resell it for a minimal loss.

I should have a list, because I just buy stuff thinking I use it and later find I don't.

Now about that 100-400mm lens: I used to have one and indeed did the kids' sports stuff with it. Like you, I'm not into wildlife and birds and the kids long ago stopped those sports. So, at one point I sold my lens. It was only later that I realized, looking through Lightroom, that I had actually used that lens quite a bit for landscapes (I'm more of a tele landscape shooter than a wide angle one). I've missed it ever since.

hey there.
thanks for answering.

nathancarter - you are right - lenses indeed hold their value - until they are really old but i don't sell lenses. if I get rid of them, i give them to my brother or neice....
i am not a fan of selling things!

but you are right - the worst case isn't that bad.

johnvanr - interesting point. you developed a different use beyond what you thought you would/did use it for.
I suppose though I would have to look through my pics and see where I used the longer lenses...and where I didn't have enough reach. I will examine that issue. But given that I have to really take time to think about it...I am guessing that anyway it will no longer be first on the list!

thanks!

I've used telephoto lenses for landscape shots for years -- gives an interesting compression on the scene or the subject. A lens is originally built for specific function as a general rule, but the creativity of the folks who push that button should never feel confined to that use -- creativity and bending those rules will capture some very interesting images.

It looks like you have a good assortment of lenses, I'd say get out and shoot a bunch! Over time you can get pretty clear on how you want to move forward!