That's a reasonably capable and versatile lens, but it's not fast, nor is it the best optics or build quality. That being said, if you want reach to 300mm you could do worse. I used to own one of those lenses a while ago and it wasn't bad.

Another option which is similarly priced is the 70-200 4L. No stabilization, but you get a constant f/4 and much better build & optics and faster focusing. I can't tell you which is the right choice for you, but I will say that I would prefer using the 70-200 4L over the 70-300 4-5.6 IS. IS isn't critical to me for that lens since I use my telephoto on a tripod the majority of the time.

ask Luca or Luckie, I believe they have this lens.

Originally Posted by danm

how does the 70-200 f4 do with panning shots?

As far as panning, it wouldn't be any different from the 70-300 IS with IS off. I'm not sure what you're asking really sorry. The 70-300 IS does have a panning mode in the IS to stabilize it perpendicular to the direction you are panning in.

the extra speed of the constant f4 would help except if you slow down the shutter speed...

I'm not sure what you're asking here. You can certainly stop the lens down if you want.

One thing I forgot is I had the older version of this lens with the older IS system that didn't have two different modes and wasn't as effective probably. Still a pretty handy lens I must admit, although I think getting the 70-200 4L would have been a better choice back then had I really thought about it.

Owned mine for a few months and i've been very pleased with it, its plenty sharp throughout the range and light weight, you won't be dissapointed. Most review sites call it the "Hidden L".

buydig.com has it for about $20 cheaper than B&H with free shipping if your looking for a slightly sweeter deal.

Originally Posted by emorphien

One thing I forgot is I had the older version of this lens with the older IS system that didn't have two different modes and wasn't as effective probably. Still a pretty handy lens I must admit, although I think getting the 70-200 4L would have been a better choice back then had I really thought about it.

Nice review on the differences between the 70-300IS and its predecessor the 75-300IS.

http://www.bobatkins.com/photography...is_review.html

panning shots are certainly possible w/o IS but you're keeper ratio will be much lower... To pan with a lens like this typically you're shooting at 1/60th~1/125th at the long end, so you're below the critical 1/FL rule making IS a huge plus.

Between the 70-200 f4 and the 70-300 IS it's a tough choice. What are you going to be shooting? How bad do you need IS? If you're picking between f4 and IS that's a tough call, but I'd go with the constant aperture personally. But realize the 70-200 f4 is a bigger lens for sure. It's a constant length so it takes more room in your bag. If you're looking for small and light the 70-300 has it beat and has IS. But the 70-200 f4 is small for a fixed aperture lens, so it's all relative. Both options here are great lenses, just different...

jjswee, I'd go with the cheaper tele AND UWA in a heartbeat myself. If you feel limited with the tele after a while, then upgrade it, but kill both birds with 1 purchase for now IMHO.

I always look at covering my bases first, then upgrading the quality of the coverage later. This means I buy and sell a ton of gear, but personally I prefer doing it this way as you get more experience with different lenses and you get more coverage now. But some people will wait till they can afford the best of the best and be fine with 1 lens for 2 years, so what do I know?

WOW Luca, great examples of what the lens can do. even without quick comparo shots from the 70-200L i like what i see. (Your not helping me to not buy this lens.)

Thanks for the info on buydig, I'll take a look there.

Originally Posted by danm

Thanks for the info on buydig, I'll take a look there.

Well my bad on not advocating that Ben has affiates through B&H, you might pay slightly more for it but you'd be helping the overhead cost of the forum.

Originally Posted by _L_U_C_A_

Well my bad on not advocating that Ben has affiates through B&H, you might pay slightly more for it but you'd be helping the overhead cost of the forum.

Hey you, yeah you there... you got a little something on your nose...

-K

no, they don't price match. But where ever you want, I'm only bummed when people shop with our affiliates w/o using the link (which I do at times ).

That said I always order from B&H because I've been there and because I know I'll get whatever I order the next day.

Originally Posted by jacobsen1

I always look at covering my bases first, then upgrading the quality of the coverage later.

This is my plan also, but I'm already wanting a 17-55 f/2.8 IS and 70-200 f/4 IS. To bad the wife and check book doesn't

Originally Posted by jacobsen1

That said I always order from B&H because I've been there and because I know I'll get whatever I order the next day.

Yeah typically i'll also get it the next day with Buydig since they're also in the New York camera district like B&H and the shipping is free on their $100+ items, so its a double goody.

Originally Posted by PhatheadWRX

I'm already wanting a 17-55 f/2.8 IS and 70-200 f/4 IS. To bad check book doesn't

tell me about it

Awesome! I think you'll be really happy with it

-K

70-300 is a GREAT focal range!!! I wish my Sigma 70-300 had IS.

Originally Posted by danm

well i ordered the Canon 70-300 IS last night. found it for $504 with free shipping on Amazon. used the affiliate link so Ben had better get his kick back!

Awesome dude!

Too late to talk you out of it then?

I'm sure you'll enjoy it

Originally Posted by danm

Its out for delivery today. and the best part is that my wife will be home to sign for it!!

Your job has now become to post pics of/with it within minutes of your arrival home.