Input for the purchase of a couple of lenses for a Canon 5D MK II: I just purchased a used 5D MK II and want to pick up a couple of lenses. I like to shoot wildlife and landscapes. I...

HLA

I just purchased a used 5D MK II and want to pick up a couple of lenses.

I like to shoot wildlife and landscapes. I have a couple of ancient Canon lenses that are probably 20 yrs old but they work with the new camera.

I have read entirely too much about new lenses including Canon and Sigma and am having a difficult time reaching a decision.

I am leaning towards the Sigma as I believe the are a good lens and are definitely less expensive then Canon.

I am thinking about a Sigma 150 Macro and a 300 mm Sigma f2.8. If I go that route I will pick up either a 1.4 or 2.0 multiplier. I would just as soon purchase used lenses but can go for new.

On my bucket list is a trip to Africa later this year. It will be a one time trip.

Does anyone have any thoughts on this?

I appreciate your input.

Thank you.

Wendy2 Loc: California

I have the same camera and have to 70-200, which won't have enough reach for you. The multiplier does degrade the image. I have the Canon 100mm for macro and it is really wonderful and sharp. I don't have any Sigmas but others on this forum do and I am sure they will share their opinions about the Sigma lenses.

HLA

Thanks for your thoughts.

Dennstedt Loc: Ciudad de Merida, Yucatan, MX

I also shoot the 5d Mk2. I am a wildlife shooter and can recommend two lenses that are extraordinary (and relatively inexpensive even when compared to Sigma). But first, I shot a Sigma 150-500mm f/5.6-6.3 for a while. Too slow, too big, too heavy. Fairly good IQ for the money. My recommendations however:

1. My number one go-to wildlife lens is the EF 400mm f/5.6L USM prime lens. Tack sharp, lightweight, of modest size. L-glass quality at Sigma prices. You will not be dissatisfied with this lens. No 'IS' but I'm always shooting at 1/1000s to 1/2500s, so no 'IS' required.

2. EF 70-200mm f/4L USM (non-IS) for larger critters (or closer shots). Same advantages as above. If you can afford a f/2.8 go for it. But this lens has top value for dollars spent.

3. I also have the EF 100mm f/2.8 Macro. A stellar lens, and also great for portraits.

Why buy Sigma when you can buy L-glass at the same price?

gordnanaimo Loc: Vancouver Island

I have the same camera and do the same work as you are planning. First off you are going to love your 5D. We all do. I used sigma lenses on my pentax k-5 and they were brilliant. However. YOu have a cadillac camera why not buy cadillac lenses. I have the 24-100 and the 100-400 and a 2x extender. I can cover anything I need. Mind you the 2x is only good on bright sunny days with the zooom. If you go prime the 2 x will work like a gem. Now all you have to do is find the money to get the glass.

mdorn Loc: Portland, OR

Dennstedt wrote:

I also shoot the 5d Mk2. I am a wildlife shooter ... (show quote)

:thumbup: :thumbup:

Woodham Lock Loc: Woodham UK

The trip to South Africa is worth investing in a decent lens. The Canon 100-400 lets you have a good reach and shoot close ups without changing a lens (not always time with wild life). Also, very dusty out there and a good tip is to take an old pillow case and put your camera in in whilst you are in between shots. The Sigma 50-500 is also versatile but heavier. Landscape I use the Canon 17-40 wide angle which is very good. Lots of 100-400 lens available second hand but they hold their price. Don't know where you are but try EBay where you can get one used for about £800

cheineck Loc: Hobe Sound, FL

The Tamron 70-300mm VC is a great buy for the Mark II---$349!

rpavich Loc: West Virginia

mdorn wrote:

br I also shoot the 5d Mk2. I am a wildlife shoot... (show quote)

:thumbup: :thumbup: :thumbup:

lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode

I think the Sigma 300mm F/2.8 with a 2 x TC is very worthwhile looking at for Africa and any wildlife or sport in general.
For the macro I'd be tempted to look at the Canon EF 100mm F/2.8 Macro USM. This lens is a non L but it is a great lens and the shorter macro length could be easier to handle and is a great length for portraits.
Those lenses and that converter get you a 100mm, 200mm, 300mm & 600mm F/5.6.
Have you thought about throwing a 7D in there to take the long end out to the equivalent field of view to a 960mm F/5.6?

zerobeat

I also have the 5D MK II. As soon as I opened the new box, my Canon 24-105 (currently on sale) jumped out of the drawer and yelled "pick me, pick me". For a walk around lens, I can't beat it. As to long reach, which I don't do much of, I have both the multipliers and the Canon 100-400. Those items on my crop frame (Canon 7D) cover my needs.

cheineck Loc: Hobe Sound, FL

zerobeat wrote:

I also have the 5D MK II. As soon as I opened the new box, my Canon 24-105 (currently on sale) jumped out of the drawer and yelled "pick me, pick me". For a walk around lens, I can't beat it. As to long reach, which I don't do much of, I have both the multipliers and the Canon 100-400. Those items on my crop frame (Canon 7D) cover my needs.

:) :) :) :) :) :) :) :)

windshoppe Loc: Arizona

I bought the Canon f/2.8 70-200 along with a 2x extender for my trip to East Africa. On safari I used the f/2.8 with extender almost exclusively and the results were superb, particularly in low light and, of necessity, hand-held. In the intervening years I acquired a 5DII as well as a Canon 24-105 for my (excuse the expression) walk-around lens. This combination has served me very well in my travels and general photography pursuits.

ole sarg Loc: south florida

Going on a safari to africa I suggest a canon sx50 unless they will provide shooting sites that are set up with sandbags.

Others may differ, but those who have gone seem to agree with me.

Dennstedt Loc: Ciudad de Merida, Yucatan, MX

windshoppe wrote:

I bought the Canon f/2.8 70-200 along with a 2x extender for my trip to East Africa. On safari I used the f/2.8 with extender almost exclusively and the results were superb, particularly in low light and, of necessity, hand-held. In the intervening years I acquired a 5DII as well as a Canon 24-105 for my (excuse the expression) walk-around lens. This combination has served me very well in my travels and general photography pursuits.

I totally agree with your comments.