Interesting deal .. help me decide (curretn price for MkII)?

Got an interesting chance here, just want some advice on how to handle it...

My dad and I have been shooting together for a while - we both have cameras (XT and 20D) but we are moving on to different ventures. We will very likely be shooting high school sports this fall, in addition to me graduating in a year with a degree in Photojournalism.

In an effort to upgrade a little (while I have the money to do so, get what I'll need for years, not a few months) dad has offered to buy my 20D and 70-200 2.8L Canon lens, then trade his XT in - giving me about enough to buy a Mark II/n. I would probably buy a Sigma 120-300 2.8 or Sigma 300 2.8 after this.

My question: Can I find a Mark IIn or Mark II for 2000-2200 dollars? I don't mind used.

And really, how much will a Mark II improve my "keeper rate"?

I don't think it will increase your 'keeper' rate at all, actually. To do that, you would need to analyze what it is that counts for your attrition - then concentrate on that.

I would also hang on to your 70-200, especially in your genre. Selling it, imo, will be a big mistake.

Deckham wrote in post #3622906
I don't think it will increase your 'keeper' rate at all, actually. To do that, you would need to analyze what it is that counts for your attrition - then concentrate on that.

I would also hang on to your 70-200, especially in your genre. Selling it, imo, will be a big mistake.

Note that I would still have nearly constant access to the camera and lens, he just wouldn't have to buy all new equipment for a higher price.

Well, of course, sharing is always going to be swell

I'm just imagining you out in the street, seeing a perfect opportunity, and saying oh **** - my 70-200.....!!!

Deckham wrote in post #3622958
Well, of course, sharing is always going to be swell

I'm just imagining you out in the street, seeing a perfect opportunity, and saying oh **** - my 70-200.....!!!

I also have a 24-70, and I'd be using both the 70-200 2.8 and longer when shooting football. Why? I need to teach my dad to use a telephoto lens properly, so I can keep using it

As long as you still have access to the 70-200 it might work. It is one of those lenses that you must have in your bag! I don't think you will find a MK2N at that price but should be able to find a good MK2. I would also go with the 120-300 Sigma. It is a very good lens and the range will really be an advantage. Gotta love a dad who helps like this. I have to disagree on keeper rates, to point. The MK2 is a quantum leap over the 20D in both focus speed and fps. As you get used to it, it will allow you to improve your technique and then your keeper rate will go up.

i wouldn't sell the 70-200 if you're trying to do photo-journalism work...it's a must-have lens for that.

but yes, you can find a 1d2 for that price.

check out this buy/sell forum along with fredmiranda.com

A 1D series camera is almost a must for a PJ. I see you have the PJ's lens, 24-70L.

jr_senator wrote in post #3628759
A 1D series camera is almost a must for a PJ. I see you have the PJ's lens, 24-70L.

I have the Sigma 24-70 actually