Canon 70-300 or 100-400 L Lens???
May 12, 2014 06:03:35 #
amehta wrote:
A monopod weighs about 1/3 of a comparable tripod, or less if you don't put ahead on the monopod. This makes the monopod much easier to use. It's also easier to hold a monopod rather than the three legs of the tripod at the top.
I suggest that you always use a head on a monopod; even if you are only shooting level. The head allows the monopod to be used at an angle, providing a more sturdy support (making your body the other two legs of a tripod).
I usually use a tilt head with a quick release such as the Manfrotto 234RC. Set the tension on the tilt to allow the camera/lens to tilt with resistance (rather than try to lock it down).
The monopod lets you hold the camera in position for an extended period; good if you are waiting for an animal to move. And, a good monopod will get the camera/lens up to eye level. A tripod that can achieve the same height will weight a lot more.
Finally, you might consider a red dot sight; this will let you get the camera pointed in the right direction much quicker, as well as make it much easier to track something that's moving.
May 12, 2014 06:52:56 #
nicksr1125 wrote:
I wouldn't attempt to handhold a lens that long. I have a Tamron 70-200 f/2.8 on my Sony A850 that I don't attempt to use without being mounted on a monopod. They're typically too heavy for handheld work. Monopods also give you a steady base for using slower shutter speeds. Three pounds is a lot of weight to try to handhold anytime.
The Gitzo monopod with a really right stuff monopod head is a great rig for the 100-400 or even the 500mm f4.
The 300mm 70-300 is a great people lens and walk around lens, but does mot take a teleconverter and is short for birds and wildlife.
May 12, 2014 07:00:32 #
Here are some shots I took a while back with the 70-300 L. Handheld. Of course, my bird was bigger then yours! It's a good lens and the IS works quite well. Of course, if you can find a way to make your current lens work you would save a bunch.
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-191608-1.html
http://www.uglyhedgehog.com/t-191608-1.html
May 12, 2014 07:08:43 #
Cassy wrote:
HI
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
Try a monopod they work better for this kind of photography.
May 12, 2014 07:15:18 #
Cassy wrote:
HI
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
I have both of these lenses. I like them both but the 70-300 is not a replacement for the 100-400. What helped me was a sling strap. The 100-400 is much easier to carry with the sling and then I have the strength to hold the 100-400 when needed.
Bill
May 12, 2014 07:19:08 #
Another thought: Use the search function at the top of the page for "Morris Sure Shot". Morris is a member who has developed and is marketing a device that I think could solve all your problems for a lot less money then a new lens.
May 12, 2014 07:32:50 #
Cassy wrote:
HI
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
Hey Cassy, I have just recently had the same problem trying to hand hold that lens and I have had it for years. I have a nesting pair of Bald Eagles close to my house. First day I went in I did not use a tripod and was constantly lifting/holding the camera upwards as they were high in the tree, I am still sore. Shooting Birds in flight is tough, have not tried the monopod yet. Went back yesterday with my Tripod made all the difference in the world, course they were stationary.
May 12, 2014 08:39:24 #
May 12, 2014 08:58:45 #
Cassy,
You will be sorry if you go from 100-400L to 70-300. I have had those on my self. 300 is to short on as a wildlife and bird lens.
Many on here suggesting support your camera and lens with monopod. On 100-400 L has it support bracket on lens it self that balance heavy lens with camera pretty good with monopod.
Try to use hi speed on shutter with large aperture ( small number) and race ISO setting to able get more speed. Set you camera to center focus with auto focus and your Canon lens on IS.
As well use tree trunks, fence post etc, as support you hand with camera. The image on here is taken with 100-400L on free hand by support my hand from with trunk.
You will be sorry if you go from 100-400L to 70-300. I have had those on my self. 300 is to short on as a wildlife and bird lens.
Many on here suggesting support your camera and lens with monopod. On 100-400 L has it support bracket on lens it self that balance heavy lens with camera pretty good with monopod.
Try to use hi speed on shutter with large aperture ( small number) and race ISO setting to able get more speed. Set you camera to center focus with auto focus and your Canon lens on IS.
As well use tree trunks, fence post etc, as support you hand with camera. The image on here is taken with 100-400L on free hand by support my hand from with trunk.
May 12, 2014 09:00:17 #
Cassy. As others have said it takes time and practise to get it right. Take note of Birdpix. comments.
When I first tried BIF with the 100-400 I was having a terrible time with it. I was advised to try shooting larger, slow flying birds at first, to develop some skill.
Usually I have the lens at approx. 200mm to allow me to lock onto a bird then zoom in as much as required. A fast shutter speed is also required. I sometimes use a monopod with a tilt head and quick release for birds sitting in a tree.
Don't give up on it what ever you do. Good luck.
When I first tried BIF with the 100-400 I was having a terrible time with it. I was advised to try shooting larger, slow flying birds at first, to develop some skill.
Usually I have the lens at approx. 200mm to allow me to lock onto a bird then zoom in as much as required. A fast shutter speed is also required. I sometimes use a monopod with a tilt head and quick release for birds sitting in a tree.
Don't give up on it what ever you do. Good luck.
May 12, 2014 09:20:35 #
Cassy, for what you want to do, you will need a FAST monopod ! - one of the ones I use is the Manfrotto 685b one hand adjustable - about $160. Put a #234RC on top and you are ready to go. Below is the "bodypod" I use - it is slightly better than a monopod for BIF's - though not commercially available that I know of ....
May 12, 2014 09:26:34 #
Benttree wrote:
Cassy, br You will be sorry if you go from 100-400... (show quote)
Absolutely stunning shot !
May 12, 2014 09:29:53 #
Cassy wrote:
HI
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
I bought a 100-400 L lens a few months ago and continue to have problems taking pictures and holding the lens. :-(
I am thinking of selling this lens and buying the 70-300 L Lens. Has anyone had bought lens and is the 300 better?
I just have a hard time hand holding the lens, but when the birds are moving and flying I can't use a tripod. I'm so confused and disappointed the 400 isn't working out.
Cassy,
what kind of a head are you using. I shoot mine using a gimbal head on the tripod quite often with no problems.
I normally shoot this lens handheld though. I try to find a tree or my truck hood for a rest if possible though. This lens is quite accurate if used properly. Keep the SS above 1/1000. When using a tripod shut the IS off! This is a must with this lens. Last, practice your tracking skills. Practice, practice and more practice!
Can you post a couple of your photos? Make sure you check the (store original) box. This will help us diagnose your possible problem.
Jim D
May 12, 2014 09:32:50 #
imagemeister wrote:
Cassy, for what you want to do, you will need a FAST monopod ! - one of the ones I use is the Manfrotto 685b one hand adjustable - about $160. Put a #234RC on top and you are ready to go. Below is the "bodypod" I use - it is slightly better than a monopod for BIF's - though not commercially available that I know of ....
For going high overhead with monopod, add the # 222 grip action ball head for adding height to monopod and added versatility.....
on 685d monopod
May 12, 2014 09:35:21 #
You may also wish to consider a good camera strap for supporting the camera while not in use. A better strap comes with a shoulder pad for comfort. Review the straps at this Web-site:
http://optechusa.com/straps.html
I buy my camera straps from this Web-site.
http://optechusa.com/straps.html
I buy my camera straps from this Web-site.
Cassy wrote:
Hi Anotherviewer,
I seem to be having trouble with all the above :-). I am realizing I have a lot to learn about bigger and longer lenses. I do great with my 24-70 or my 100-300 (non L glass, much cheaper lens) but I go to the 100-400 and just have trouble. I guess I am expecting the same results and It's making me SO Frustrated because I'm not getting the results. As you know with Wildlife, I don't have time to set up my tripod and get my camera attached :-). Thanks for the info.
I seem to be having trouble with all the above :-). I am realizing I have a lot to learn about bigger and longer lenses. I do great with my 24-70 or my 100-300 (non L glass, much cheaper lens) but I go to the 100-400 and just have trouble. I guess I am expecting the same results and It's making me SO Frustrated because I'm not getting the results. As you know with Wildlife, I don't have time to set up my tripod and get my camera attached :-). Thanks for the info.
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.