EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L USM Lens

[aztec]

Is this the best value L lens at the moment or ever according to some web sites,I would like to get a larger focal length lens but the prices start to get silly. Would any one say if this would be a good choice with a 2x converter fitted on a 450d for wildlife pics I know it does not have IS the other thing is it weather proof ie light rain or should i look away from canon for a 500mm just cant make up my mind

 

[Canon Bob]

It's only good value if it'll do what you want from it. If it won't then it's an expensive piece of kit that sits in the bottom of your bag.

It's not weather sealed (unlike the IS version). At 200mm it performs well but wildlife usually needs something a little longer unless the "wildlife" is tame or in a zoo. A 1.4x converter will be fine and AF will still work but you'll lose quality (softening) and AF with the 2x on.

If birds are going to be a big part of your wildlife then you really need to be looking to start at 400mm, and that'll work in a garden environment, but I shoot a lot at 840mm and still end up cropping.

Sorry if that's disappointing but better not to go down the wrong road.

Bob

 

[aztec]

Cheers Bob thanks for your advice sometimes you need someone to share their experience, being quite new to the digital scene I am trying to build up my gear and after your advice i will wait and get at half decent lens of at least 400mm. the problem is I want to run before i have learn to walk as they say, I then start to think why am I spending so much money on a good lens when it may be better saving and changing my camera, oh the joys of photography:bonk:

 

[Dom_Cabarete]

ITS NOT WEATHER SEALED!!! didnt know that... better be carefull with it then :|

 

[aztec]

just like to add I have a 70-300mm tamron which has not had a lot of use of late but when I have used it was very slow and the quality seems to be sadly lacking especially at the long end of the lens.