New RF70-200 f/4 First Impressions
1 week ago
4
I sold EF 70-200 f/4 non-IS, which was a decent lens but didn't have IBIS. I decided I wanted to get an RF mount lens in the same focal range.
AS I posted here earlier, my struggle was whether to get the lighter, much less expensive f/4.0 version, or spend $1200-$1300 more for the f/2.8 version. The fact the sensor on my R5 is so good made me really struggle with whether upgrading to the f/2.8 is worth that much more money (to me).
Most of my shooting (80% at least) is landscapes where I would mostly be stopping down anyway. I know in cases where I’m shooting portraits, the f/2.8 would yield nicer, creamier bokeh, and it would be better in low light but is it $1300 worth of better bokeh given I’m not a pro?
My heart told me, “just suck it up and get the 2.8,” but my “head” said, “you don’t need the 2.8 and with the high-ISO capabilities of the R5 you could probably get fine results with the f/4 version.” The f/4 version is also smaller, lighter (for hiking) and of course much less $$.
My head won and I just took delivery of the RF70-200 f/4 yesterday. For the amount of money I saved by not getting the 2.8 version, I ended up also buying the 85 f/2. I'm still waiting for that one to be delivered.
I have not had much opportunity to do any serious shooting yet, but I do like the compact size and very light weight, which will make it easier to carry in a backpack when hiking. Here are a couple quick and dirty shots (some with high ISO I ran through Topaz).
The lens, although light, feels well made and solid. The lens hood has a nice distinctive "click" when it's installed. Though the hood doesn't have a window for turning filters like the 2.8 version does, the hood isn't too deep so that I can still turn a CP filter with my index finger if need be. With the hood on backwards, it is very similar in size to my RF24-105 (slightly bigger around) so that storing it in my Billingham shoulder bag works well.
Eagle had a broken wing
Our kitty, Blue. Not the best background
A bunny in the yard (I desaturated the background so the bunny would pop a little more
One of many cacti on our property.
It's been snowing all morning.