pttenn wrote in post #2398867
So how do you compare the 100-400 with your 400????? I have the 400 5.6 so very interested in your reply! Wonderful shots, by the way! You hit the bird jackpot on this trip!
Karen
good question. I would have to say that when this lens is sharp, its pretty darn sharp. as sharp as my primes, no, but is it supposed to be, no. but the 100-400 definitly puts out some shots that are beautiful. I can certainly see the advantage of zooming out to fit the whole subject in frame without walking around it. Overall, ive used it before, it has great color and sharpness, and is a great lens. Now focus speed. I certainly wouldnt call the focus speed bad, in fact short of the 70-200 series its probably got the fastest focus speed of any zoom out there, but IMO its noticably slower and less responsive than the primes (which once again should be the case). Some people get in a big hissy over the 100-400 having push pull zoom, i personally have always found it very easy to use, and most of those people have never used it anyway. Its obviously a very well built lens for sure, and the focal length lock is very handy. Another advantage it has is when locked down at 100mm is shorted than the 400 prime, but is also longer when fully extended. IS is always handy, i do believe a few of those shots were even down to 1/250 hand held, which is quite hard to pull off with the prime (ive done it down to 1/60 though). and the IS unit is quite capable even if it isnt the newest generation. overall theres no real reason not to get the 100-400, its certainly a fantastic piece of kit. but since i use my 400 prime for flyers focus speed is the end all for me, and the prime definitly takes home the cake there.
