toosnvetts wrote:I have a 1.4TC for my 70-200 L4 and it works fine but the 5.6 maximum aperture means shooting in good light. I must say that I am almost retired at 60 years old, exercise daily and live in south Louisiana right in the middle of numerous bird sanctuaries and state parks. I believe I could take some exceptional pictures handheld but I do like to sit a blind as well.
I have worked my whole life and don't think that that money is a waste at my point in life. I can afford it and I am healthy enough to use it. The worst that can happen is I have to sell it and the resale is high; I have checked!
The local store here is also advising me that there are some serious photographers that would rent such a lens so it's in my future, the question is just when. I really am in no hurry. I will probably want a body upgrade soon as well.
Charlie
Charlie:
It sounds like we're in similar boats. I bought the 400 f/2.8 last summer and have loved using it. I didn't find the need to spend hours and hours in the blinds to justify it -- it's enough to know that it's in my arsenal when I need it. This last fall my high school daughters roped me into taking action shots of their marching band as a fund raiser, and I used the 400 on the sidelines throughout the season. It was a blast. This summer I'm hoping to get out more for some wildlife and nature adventures. I'm also going to take it to the golf course once in a while.
I will highly recommend a Wimberley tripod head for use with this lens. It's incredible! The lens becomes weightless and is effortless to pan and respond to the action. It's really a treat not to have to worry about balancing and mandhandling the lens... for me it's too heavy to steady for a shot.
Oh, and I got the camera body upgrade not long after getting the lens, too. I'm sure it won't end there. I've already got my tax rebate spent!
Enjoy!