scooter1 Loc: Yacolt, Wa.

So true. Thanks

Lorendn Loc: Jackson, WY

I have seen Canon 600mm f/4 used lenses for just over $5k. I bought 600 used a few years back and have never regretted the $4k I saved below a new lens price.

k2edm Loc: FN32AD

IMHO there is no reason for not buying tamorin or other (brand X) lenses, I dont think the delta in cost is anywhere near worth it. that being said, I have Canon "L" lenses.....sigh...I could have bought a lot of beer with the difference... Ed

anotherview Loc: California

Best advice: "Try renting equipment first."

gvarner Loc: Central Oregon Coast

Plan your outings with one and then rent it.

elliott937 Loc: St. Louis

A thought to share with you, a few years ago, before I bought my first L series lens, I went to our zoo with a friend who had L lenses, and I had my "standard lens". We both made it a point to photograph identical subjects, and identical composition. Then, at home, I loaded those "identical subjects" onto my iMac, with mine on the left half of the screen, and her's on the right half. Then I called upon an artist friend to look at the screen, to tell us what he noticed. Now knowing which-was-which, he quickly identified the "sharper image", over and over again. The L lens captured a much sharper image.

Considering that I have no plans to replace lenses, over and over again, but to use my "basic set" for many years to come, I felt that buying L-series lenses to be the best long-term lenses.

k2edm Loc: FN32AD

Hmmmm! about time someone did that... makes me feel not so bad for spending the $$ on L lenses.. thanks,Ed

djlouden Loc: Ocala, Florida

Good idea if you are aware of the pitfalls. I own a 500 F4 I which I purchased new for in the vicinity of $10K. It is now discontinued as a serviceable item, meaning if I had an issue it's done. I imagine your 600 has fallen to the same fate. They even reduced my point value on CPS to -0-. I know they can't service things forever but it's still a rub.

Happy shooting

elliott937 Loc: St. Louis

Funny you make that point. Very true. And to that issue, I've purchased two "spare" identical cameras. They can rest easy in 'storage', for when the day comes that my original purchase body fails, with no chance of Canon being able to repair it.

lowkick Loc: Connecticut

I agree that "L" glass is the way to go - usually. I have 6 or 7 "L" glass lenses and I love them. But, there are times and conditions where the extra cost or lack of availability of range just make them poor choices. For example, I have a Sigma 150-600 S lens that is tack sharp. Canon doesn't make a similar lens and the multiple "L" lenses I would need to buy to cover that range would be prohibitive in price and more difficult to carry. I have a 28-300mm Tamron that certainly is not as sharp as my "L" glass, but it's versatility is great for many situations and it's sharpness is acceptable. I use this lens mostly for street photography, but also on vacation, depending on where. I also have a Sigma 100-400mm C that is pretty sharp. I already have that range covered with a combination of other lenses, but it is far less expensive than Canon's "L" version. I find it a fair trade for my purposes. If I am going to shoot a specific thing, I bring the best glass I have that meets the requirements of shooting that subject. If I'm out wandering, looking for things to shoot, I carry what is convenient. By the way, in my opinion, the most versatile, pin sharp everyday lens in my bag is the Canon 24-105 "L".

elliott937 Loc: St. Louis

kowkick, I think you've found the best way to fill your needs. And all that matters is what pleases you.

BTW, I agree on the ideal use of the Canon 24-105L. It is my walk around lens, and will remain to be.

djlouden Loc: Ocala, Florida

Maybe a good idea to turn them on and cycle them from time to time. Sometime electronics gives up the ghost if it isn't used. Wish I could afford 2 - 500 F4's

djlouden Loc: Ocala, Florida

lowkick and elliott937 agree on the 24-105. Have both the ef version and on my RP the RF version. Great grab and go lens.

elliott937 Loc: St. Louis

We're thinking the same. I have a wide-angle lens on one, so that I'll make it a point to use it from time to time.

LEWHITE7747 Loc: 33773

If you do research the Sigma Art lens is sharper--I have it and it is tack sharp--and it is cheaper.