Canon Big White Conundrum - 200-400 vs 400 f2.8 IS II vs 500 f4 IS II

AbChromatic wrote:

I’ve decided to take the plunge and get a big white to pursue my interest in wildlife photography. Like some other folks on this forum, I’m on the fence with regards to 200-400 vs 400 f2.8 IS II vs 500 f4 IS II. I would highly appreciate any recommendations, experiences etc with these big whites.

My current gear : 5d Mk III , 100-400, 24-105, 50

Interests : Wildlife and Wildscapes . Focus on Mammals , water birds (flamingos, storks, pelicans, etc) and some raptors. I have not developed a strong interest into small birds yet (hence ruling out 600).

Places of Interest (Typical Indian National Parks): Ranthambore, Kazirangha, Kabini, Kanha, Corbett etc and an occasional African park.

Based on my research (summing up info from other posts and lens reviews) there maybe two main options:

Option A
1) 1 body + 1 lens

Existing 5D Mk III + Buy a 200-400 built in 1.4X

Pros:
1) Convenience: Need to carry only one body and lens combo.

2) Versatility: ability zoom in and out without having to add/remove extenders and change lens in the field etc.

3) Need only 1 body so need to incur expense of second body or other lens.

Cons:
1) Not sure of the quality n level of detail at 560mm (with converter engaged). I have tried this lens once and had mixed feelings. Nonetheless, a very limited data point to build any strong opinions.

2) Weight is heavy.

3) Price Tag.

4) May need to buy a crop body as focal length is limited on the long end for most birds.

Option B
1) 2 bodies + 2 lens

Existing 5d Mk III + either 500 f/4 IS II (with the option of adding 1.4 or 2x extenders)
OR 400 f2.8 IS II (with the option of adding 1.4 or 2x extenders )

And

2nd Body Lens combo
Buy a new crop sensor 7D Mk I (or II when it comes out) + 70-200 f2.8 IS II (replacing existing 100-400)

Any input is highly appreciated.

It sure depends on what you will be shooting mostly. The ONLY reason to go with the 400mm 2.8 II is if football is 50% of what your shooting. If it is, then ya got to get it. I chose to go with the 500mm f4 II, the 200-400mm still is short for so many things, and even though there is a converter built in, my 500mm will also take them and it's an absolute killer at 700mm f5.6 wide open.

The two body approach for wildlife/birds is a great way to go, 500mm on a stick and a 100-400mm,70-200mm or 70-300mm L on the shoulder for closer, fast appearing birds etc. Kind of the same kit I use on the sideline, except at night (300-400mm's 2.8's).

I don't pretend to have the answer, but the 200-400mm is just so expensive and short. The 500mm II will give you better everything on the long end for several thousand less. That being said, I won't shoot too many events w/o a zoom, the action is too unpredictable. For football and wildlife however, it's tough to get too much reach optically.

Good luck!