Big 50 approaches - decisions, decisons.

[Raistlin]

Well, I'm in a happy yet frustrating position.

My 50th Birthday approaches followed rapidly by Christmas and it seems I have a decision to make.

SWMBO and parents are combining presents so that I am going to have a 400mm zoom lens to add to my collection but the question is, which?

The choice is between the Canon L series 100-400mm IS on the one hand and the Sigma 80-400mm OS on the other.

Instinct says to go straight for the L series but pragmatism and an in depth study of reviews suggests a little more thought is required.

There is the undeniable quality of the L series glass but on the other hand, the Sigma seems equal to the task according to some reviews.

A big negative for me is the push / pull nature of the L series zoom as opposed to the rotary zoom in the Sigma.

Push / Pull just seems so un-natural to me.

The Sigma OS system is said by some to be more effective than the Canon IS.

An L series has always been something to aspire to though.

Sigma is significantly cheaper.



PLEASE help.

Opinions, based upon experience of either or both would be invaluable.

[ColinB]

Hi Paul,

Haven't used either I'm afraid so can't give you advice. I see you have posted on the EOS forum as well so you should get some advice there.
Another place to search would be http://photography-on-the.net/forum/index.php. Lots of opinions on both lenses on there.

Good luck with your choice.

PS. have you considered the canon 70-200L with a teleconverter?

[JohnDotCom]

I would never use Tele Converters, the Quality etc isn't good enough.

[Raistlin]

Thanks Colin

I'm of the same opinion as John on tele-extenders though

[ColinB]

Never used one myself, just read about them on the above linked forum and seen some good results on there.

[DavidJ]

Originally Posted by JohnDotCom

I would never use Tele Converters, the Quality etc isn't good enough.

Perhaps if you tried the "Sharpest Zoom" in Canons box with a Canon 1.4X you may change your opinion. I have, I have, and I use it. It is still an f4 at 280mm (before the 1.6X crop factor). If you tell me you have used a Canon 70-200 f2.8 with a 1.4X II extender and you are disapointed with the results I will have to question your ability to hold a camera steady while you take a picture. I had to question and address my own ability, I am still learning.

I haven't had the oportunity to use a 100-400 L series so I won't comment on it. When I am ready to reach beyond the 70-200 +1.4 I will look at f2.8 primes and remortgage as appropriate. It is important to realise that we in the UK are not blessed with the same quality of light as some parts of this beautiful planet, take example photos with a pinch of salt unless they were done by your neighbour in his back garden!!

[Raistlin]

Hmm

Groundhog day

I seem to be following your posts around the forum David

[Simon]

You firstly mention a 400mm Zoom lens in your opening post, i this the focal length you require the most because a prime 400mm L-series at f/2.8 may be of interest to you (or even one of the other focal length primes).

Personally if money wasn't a consideration I would go for the 70-200 L f/2.8 because it covers the focal lengths I use the most and then I would add a teleconverter if I needed the extra range.

I guess it depends on what sort of photography you like shooting....

[Raistlin]

Originally Posted by Simon D

I guess it depends on what sort of photography you like shooting....

The majority will be wildlife, also some air displays.

[Raistlin]

Well

Thanks to Jessops, I have been able to test the two back to back.

It HAS to be the Canon

Thanks for the opinions guys