12K to use - what to buy?

I'd drop the 400 and opt for the 300 2.8 with both TCs', that and change the body to a 1 series(you never know when it's gonna rain while shooting outside sports).

Ok, allow me to add my two cents to the discourse. IMHO, the AF abilities of a 1D series body is irreplaceable. Therefore, a 1D mark III makes sense here.

In addition, I would opt for the versatility of the 300L 2.8 and 500L rather than the 400L for covering both wildlife and sports, but it's close. Still, the weight savings is significant. Don't forget to get a good support system!

I just came back from shooting in Grand Tetons/Yellowstone and the 500L was a difference maker, along with the teleconverters, of course.

Good luck with whatever you decide!

ooo i trade u 8 grand for your 12 grand :P

anyways.
get a 40d
300 2.8 w/ 1.4 TC
24-70 2.8
70-200 2.8 IS
16-35 2.8 and some other goodies.

you dont have to spend it all

Thanks for the responses, but now I am really wondering about what body to buy. I am pretty sure I will get the:
24-70 2.8
17-55 2.8
85 1.8
50 1.4
70-200 2.8 IS
300 2.8
1.4 TC

This puts my at about $8700. I'll use this with my 30D for a bit until I can decide on the 40D, 5D or the 1D Mark III. At this point I am leaning towards the 1D, but I honestly do not know enough about the camera, only that is is "awesome". This will give me more time to save a bit more for the 1D if I decide to go that route. (It will be an investment in my photo career - at least that is what I am telling myself)

As for the 300mm, I'll shoot a few soccer, football and baseball games to get a feel if I will need something with more focal length. If I do, then I might goto the 400 2.8 if I need the low light speed or go with the 500 4.0 for more versatility (sports and wildlife).

Eric

If you don't want to go the 5D route, and you have that much cash to spend, I'd pick up a 1D body and then go from there. Have fun!

1D Mark III
16-35 f/2.8L II
24-70 f/2.8L
70-200 f/2.8L IS
2X TC

I'd save the rest for the 2nd gen. 5D whenever it comes out. Or if you really want that 300 f/2.8, I'd just get a 40D and save for the 1D Mark III.

I wish I had your problem.

form wrote in post #5876975
I wish I had your problem.

amen.

Another opinion:

Yes to:
50 1.4 ($355)
70-200 2.8 IS ($1575)

No to others and definitely NO to 400 F2.8
Just get a 2x TC mkII for now in conjunction to 70-200 2.8

Also instead of Canon 24-70 2.8, get a Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 XR Di LD Aspherical (IF) that is $350 at B&H

I just want to note. I would go for a 1DMkIII, but if you are still getting used to your camera, skip the 1 series for now. 1 Series is amazing, but is a world of difference from the xxD series. you need to understand your camera inside an out before worrying about a 1 Series. Get super familiar with your 30D, then get a MKIII.

I would also suggest getting one or two lenses at a time. Let yourself become familiar with them before moving onto something new.

And welcome to POTN!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

PictureCrazy has had nothing but trouble from his 1D3, but loves his 1Ds3. He did comment that the 40d was in many ways as good as a 1 series, and he suggested someone else on another forum just get a 40D.

The focus system in the 40D is a big step up from the 30D. It somehow manages to lock onto a dark suit in a dark wedding reception room where the 20D/30D would just seek. Also the files are much sharper. For what I do a 1D3 is unnecessary, but for a pro sports shooter the frame rate and waterproofing may be worthwhile.

Dear EricTober,
This year I have be extra good. I would like a 1D mk III, and a 24-70mm F2.8L for being so good. I promise to be good for the next year too if you get me these things.
Thanks
Nick

As you already are in to primes my answer "primes" is not neccecary

or you can wait for the upcoming 8-1200mm f/1.2 L IS USM. Think its about to be announced on PMA 2076

EricTober wrote in post #5866436
Thanks for all the responses. As for the investments responses, I am an accountant well invested and I max out my 401k's each year.

For a moment I was wondering how you had 12K to spare on just a part-time job, but now I know why. Anyhow, I'll let the experts talk you through it here. I'm still at first base here trying to get enough money to invest.