Cricket photography - 'fuzzy' images using 75-300mm?

[phase_k]

Hi everyone, I've not been on here for a while, but hoping to be around a bit more often (probably asking stupid questions!)

I've been playing around with my camera at cricket matches recently, using my Canon 300d with 75-300mm lens, but I have noticed that the focus at 300mm seems 'fuzzy'

Here is a recent image:

I don't think it is just a problem with the focus being incorrect as I set the focus on AF before the shot and then set it on MF. Am I doing something silly or is the lens not up to the job?

Thanks in advance,
Karl

 

[KIPAX]

The settings seem bob on with iso 400, f5.6 and a shutter speed of 2000

The lens hasnt got the best repuration at 300mm .. maybe go f8 and see if thats better on the basis that most lens are not at there best wide open (i believe f5.6 is wide open on that lens yes?) So all I could reccomend is f8 or higher.. see if that helps.. otherwise some nifty P-P

 

[phase_k]

Thanks for verifying I'm in the correct ballpark with regard to settings, always nice to know I'm getting something right!

Here is a similar shot at F10, which is slightly better, but does still seem to me slightly 'fuzzy' in certain areas of the focus.

I guess the biggest issue is the quality of the lens as you have suggested. I know it wasn't expensive so I shouldn't expect too much. (As you have stated f5.6 is wide open at 300mm)

So where would be a good move from here lens wise given my favoured subject? Would I see an improvement using the 70-300mm IS or are we talking some real heavy duty kit?

Thanks,
Karl

 

[KIPAX]

have a look in the SPORTS section of photo sharing. lots of cricket threads... have a look at the kit they are using.. should give you an idea..

 

[Marc]

I think it's often the case with zooms that are, shall we say, not at the higher end of the price structure, that they are not at their sharpest at the long end. I use a Sigma 50-500 for cricket but I never go beyond 450mm with it.