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500mm vs 600mm?

Started Nov 13, 2017 | Questions thread
PhotosFlight
PhotosFlight Contributing Member • Posts: 609
Re: 500mm vs 600mm?
1

jjl wrote:

Thanks for the quick reply!

I know the 300mm f2.8 is a great lens, but I'm not really interested in it. I know I'd never use it at 300mm, so why not just get the 600 that I want.

Anyway, appreciate your insights. Yes, I will pair it with a nice tripod & gimbal head. I'll check out the RRS options. I have one of their very small ball heads for my smaller tripod and love it - it supports a lot more than the spec'd max weight.

I did this analysis  a few months ago but my primary focus was sports and wildlife as a secondary.  I opted for the Canon 300 IS 2.8 L.   It is smaller and lighter than the 400 and on the crop sensor has plenty of reach for sports.  The 500 and 600's were too long for sports.  For me it was the correct choice.  I can hand hold it and shoot the action.

It sounds like you have talked yourself into the 600 f4 and that looks like a sound decision.   Put that on a crop sensor and you'll be able to fill the frame from quite a distance.   If you really want to go long, there is an 800 5.6.

When I was doing my analysis I was warned about first generation versions.  The concern was that the AF would be slower and the IS less effective.  Also, getting them serviced may be more difficult.  You'll likely only make this purchase once so I would stretch a bit.  It really is an investment.

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