Canon 300mm F4L IS USM

[primrosegirl]

Having purchased a canon 70-200mm f4 L IS and I have to say am thrilled with it! I want a prime with a bit more reach. I want to be able to carry it without a tripod and was wondering about the 300mm f4...I think the 400 will be a tad too heavy for me.

 

[gary43]

Have to say I think the 300f4 is a VERY underrated lens and would be a fine addition to anybody's kit but you might also consider simply getting a x1.4 TC if you want a bit more reach ? The 70-200f4ISL is such a sharp lens that any slight deterioration in IQ caused by using a TC still leaves great images.

If you do fancy a prime though, the 300f4 versus 400f5.6 debate is fairly ongoing. I do not think you would need to rule either out on the basis of weight though both are easilly hand holdable.

Good luck with your selection.

 

[Mike.P]

Don't think there is anything in it weight wise ... the 400mm isn't a particularly heavy lens but has excellent IQ.

 

[seriousrikk]

I have had the 300mm F4 IS and the 400mm F5.6 - both are superb lenses.

Very little in is weight wise, but the 400mm does require more time to master as a lens. No IS and a longer focal length means you will likely need a higher base shutter speed purely to counter image shake. Over time you get better at holding it steady, although a monopod really does improve stuff.

 

[pete.rush]

300mm f4 a great lens was my main sport / aviation lens until I upgraded last year to the bigger brother. The f4 works very well with the canon 1.4x TC, but you do need the light to get the best from that combo.

300mm f4 with 1.4x TC

300mm f4 with 1.4x TC

300mm f4

300mm f4

300mm f4 with 1.4x TC

As for the difference between the 400mm f5.6 and 300mm f4 IS about 60 grams (1250gs v 1190gs). Not heavy lenses. The 400mm 5.6 is a very fast focusing sharp lens, the bird togs love it, but no IS and f5.6 where as the 300mm f4 is a f-stop faster, has IS and can take a 1.4x TC with ease, both are very good lenses.

 

[andyred]

As above, I've the 300 and its a superb lens. Takes a 1.4 TC well. I don't think you'd be disappointed if you purchased one.

 

[primrosegirl]

Thanks for all your advice guys. I think I will go for the 300, I do like to have IS as don't use my tripod very often. And as you say I can always get the 1.4 for the extra reach. I am very impressed with the IQ of your shots Peter, especially the close up of that leopard! They have really sold me, that's for sure!