Canon 400 f/4.0 DO Mk1

After a couple of years ownership of the 400 f/4 DO, I was considering that some time this year I could upgrade the lens to the Mk2 version. I looked back on the photo's I've taken with this lens and took a few today of the plants in my garden. This lens is sharp and a joy to own. I'm sure the new MK2 is better all round but I don't think for the extra cost it will be worth the upgrade. I have now had a change of mind. I thought I'd share these few images and hope you like them. Thank you for looking

(Taken with 1ds3 in AV mode, ISO 100, f/4.0, 1/125-1/400 on tripod) NOT CROPPED!

IMAGE LINK: http://s1107.photobuck​et.com/user/paul-cousins/library/

Photo by Paul Cousins

IMAGE LINK: http://s1107.photobuck​et.com/user/paul-cousins/library/

Photo by Paul Cousins

IMAGE LINK: http://s1107.photobuck​et.com/user/paul-cousins/library/

Photo by Paul Cousins

Looks good to me.
I have had similar conversations in my mind about my aging 500mm f/4L IS.
The cost difference now is so much, I can't seem to imagine I'll ever own the MkII, and other than the weight advantage, I am certain any other differences would be gilding the lily.

Those look fine, Paul. This lens has always had a reputation for sapping the contrast a little but it clearly cuts it when the lighting plays ball. It's perhaps that the 200/2, 300/2.8 and 400/2.8 are a little more tolerant of flat/dull conditions.

Bob

Beautiful, the images look very three dimensional to me!

Beautiful -- this lens has intrigued me for years -- that first photo is magnificent.