SharpShooter wrote:
Cony, definately a tough situation. I too own the 5dmkll. I tried to do birds with a 200 +1.4x and just didn't get the reach. A small bird(robin size) at 30" is just too far. I went to a 100-400+ 1.4 and am happy with what I get. You still have to be close, that is key. If you crop more than 50%, you'll loose the details completely.
You could get away under a $1k if you got the converter and a used 7d, that will get you the's out the length of the Sig(since they are short), with pretty good IQ. But the reality is that you need to be close enough to fill as much frame as possible. I feel if you manage 10 good shots in a year of birds, you are doing VERY well.
For more money, you can go the 100-400, or 400, +1.4's. You need to tape the pins to get AF.
I personally have not seen any shots that would convince me to try a third party lens, or maybe they are just miss-used. And the big primes aren't magic, but the prices are. My 100-400+1.4 does pretty well. I have not used a 2x, but want to try one.
So what am I comparing it to? I used to used a 500 f4, and until I replace it, I use a 600 f4.5 manual on occasion.
Cony, good luck. ;-)
SS
Cony, definately a tough situation. I too own the ... (
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What do you mean tape the pins? And how do you do it? I use a 100-400 and would be interested, in using a 1.4 TC if I could AF.