topic Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens in EF & RF Lenses

Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Mallard — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 21:25:05 GMT

Using T2i body, hand hold @ night lit sports Soccer. I had allot of blurring (Goalie standing still) last season in the later part of the matches. I was using a EFS-55-250 1:4-5.6 is ll. Used Sports mode AV, and M. Blurring remained a problem at still shots or actions shots. I figure I need the f/2.8 to gather enough light to accomplish the results wanted. I would like some info on lens above, both pros and cons although it proably doesn't have any cons. I am not a pro or anywhere close. Started shooting when I got my first Canon AE-1. I will be mostly using @ 200mm with f/2.8 in the applications above. Will this lens get the job done? I have read that @ 200mm the outer edges of the images are white or a lot lighter than the inner poritions. Is there any truth to this? If so, can it be handled in a photo program if I shoot in RAW? Any guidence would be greatly appreciated!

Re: Canon EF 70-200 is ll USM Lens

ScottyP — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 21:26:13 GMT

Buy one.

I have one and I have never heard of lighter edges.

If there is going to be a difference at the edges, any lens will show darker edges (vignetting) not lighter edges.

Also since you are shooting a crop sensor camera, your edges will be cut off of the pictures, because the image circle coming through the lens is bigger than the sensor, so you won't even get much vignetting.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

jrhoffman75 — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 22:01:27 GMT

The 70-200 f/2.8 II L lens is an outstanding lens, and you won't go wrong if you purchase it.

However, I have an alternate scenario for you to consider.

The T2i is an older body. The newest Rebel (T6s) is significantly improved.

For about the same money you could buy a T6s and the 70-200 f/4L IS. You loose one stop, but the ISO performance of the T6s is so much better I feel you would more than offset that difference.

Hopefully others will add their thoughts.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Mallard — Fri, 08 Jan 2016 22:18:55 GMT

Mr. Hoffman: Do you think this will address my blurring problems during shooting at night in low lighting on sports fields? Like I say I am not pro and that combination didn't occur because I don't know much about the T6. Thanks so much for the advice!

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 03:53:49 GMT

Although the 70-200mm f2.8L USM IS II is my favorite lens of all time, this statement may be a little overstated.

"The 70-200 f/2.8 II L lens is an outstanding lens, and you won't go wrong if you purchase it."

I agree as I said, my favorite lens but that still is no guarantee that it is going to get you your soccer photos. No one can tell you that without seeing your particular circumstance.

I will say if it can't do it, it is likely no other lens will either.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

jrhoffman75 — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 04:02:27 GMT

I can't say it will solve your problem because you are in extreme conditions. Even the best cameras have limits.

But, either of the L zoom lenses have superior image stabilization that will help for static subjects where blur is caused by your motion.

The T6s will allow higher ISO, and thus higher shutter speed, for equivalent noise compared to the T2i.

The f/2.8 lens will allow 1stop higher shutter speed compared to the f/4 always.

In my opinion the T6s and f/4 will give you better results than the T2i and f/2.8 for close to the same money.

Depending on lighting conditions neither option may not prevent blurry pictures.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

RobertTheFat — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 04:37:44 GMT

@Mallard wrote:
@Using T2i body, hand hold @ night lit sports Soccer. I had allot of blurring (Goalie standing still) last season in the later part of the matches. I was using a EFS-55-250 1:4-5.6 is ll. Used Sports mode AV, and M. Blurring remained a problem at still shots or actions shots. I figure I need the f/2.8 to gather enough light to accomplish the results wanted. I would like some info on lens above, both pros and cons although it proably doesn't have any cons. I am not a pro or anywhere close. Started shooting when I got my first Canon AE-1. I will be mostly using @ 200mm with f/2.8 in the applications above. Will this lens get the job done? I have read that @ 200mm the outer edges of the images are white or a lot lighter than the inner poritions. Is there any truth to this? If so, can it be handled in a photo program if I shoot in RAW? Any guidence would be greatly appreciated!

The "con" of that lens is that it's very large and heavy. Its performance is every bit as good as everyone says it is, but you have to be in pretty good physical condition to want to carry it around. A tripod or monopod would help; but those are an impediment to mobility, and that is not a studio lens. Like many event photographers, I routinely carry two cameras, with the 70-200 on one of them, and it can be a pretty tiring experience. I think it's worth it, but not everyone would necessarily agree.

I suppose John Hoffman's suggestion (that you buy a T6i and settle fot the f/4 version of the 70-200) has merit. I've never used the f/4, so I can't comment on that; but the T2i, an excellent camera in its day, is a relatively mediocre performer by today's standards. The T6i and the 70-200 f/4 would certainly represent an upgrade of your current equipment.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

jrhoffman75 — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 12:04:03 GMT

http://dancarrphotography.com/blog/2010/09/03/canon-70-200-f2-8-l-is-ii-review-mk2-vs-f4-comparison-is/

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

jrhoffman75 — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 12:27:49 GMT

If you're not already using one I would recommend a monopod for sports shooting; definitely use one if you are getting one of the "L" zooms.

Right now it sounds like you are getting motion blur even with static subjects. A monopod and image stabilzation would help with that to some degree (not totally eliminate).

As a test, set your camera to Tv and select a 1/1000 shutter speed, select the highest ISO your camera will allow and see what kind of results you can get with your current lens.

Pictures will probably be pretty noisy, but if at least you are stopping action you know you have a chance. If you can't stop action in those cases maybe there's just not enough light.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

PajamaGuy — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 15:09:06 GMT

These guys have given pretty good advice - and since I've been doing what you're doing, with the same equipment, I;ll offer my $0.02.

Talking about the 70-200 2.8 assumes you have $2,000 to spend. I just got one, and yes, the lens is great - but be prepared cause it's 3 lbs. - and the T2 really won't do it justice. I have the T3i, and the 55-250 IS II. I first upgraded to the 55-250 STM - the glass is better, and the STM tracks focus faster and smoother. But I still wasn't getting the lower-light performance so I went up to the T6s - for it's improved processor, AI Focus tracking, and low-light focusing. The T6s and the 55-250 STM is a great combination. And you should be able to get the combo for under $1100.

I have a couple of 600EX flashes and with the T6s, the 55-250, a monopod, and one of the 600's camera-mounted, I was able to get some acceptable shots (4x6, 5x7) even when the action was 75-100 ft away. - Bear in mind that at a sync speed of 250, if there is too much light there will be ghosting from before/after the flash fires. Kind of a catch-22.

This shot is across the field, under the lights, no flash. 7D2, 55-250 IS STM, @ 1/800, ISO 12,800, 250mm, and cropped.

But I wanted more. So I got a 7D2 for $1200 and there was an immediate improvement - low-light focusing, tracking, higher acceptable ISO, double processors, etc. But everywhere I read, the world's #1 lens is reported to be the 70-200 2.8 - so Santa dropped one down the chimney. f/ 2.8 is a whole lot different than f/5.6 (the 55-250 jumps to 5.6 around 150mm) - but like I said, it's 3 lbs, and $2,000)

I've only done basketball so far and I haven't found the "right" settings yet, but I love it, and can't wait for spring baseball!

I'm no expert - and not a pro - I'm just a grandfather shooting grandkids.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Sat, 09 Jan 2016 18:08:47 GMT

The fact of life is, Canon likes to use the same sensor in several different models. Most of the Rebels use the same 17.9mp sensor. Yes, you do get some juiced up electronics but the same sensor. From aT2i to aT5i is not going to shake up the world. TheT6i did get a newer sensor. The70D sensor if I am remembering correctly and of course some better processing.

Even the 7D had the same 17.9mp sensor. The 7D Mk II gets the new one and better processing.

Of course comparing the f4 vs f2.8 zoom is not a huge step. But either of these lenses are not even in the same zip code as the 55-250mm. It is 'almost' a given that glass trumps anything else you can do the improve your photos. And the bottom line is the 70-200mm f2.8L USM IS II is the best lens of its kind made by any company. Bar none.

IMHO, go for the lens first. If it still doesn't do what you want get the T6i or 7D Mk II.

You guys that complain about the weight need to spend some quality time in the gym! The 70-200mm f2.8 is not even a heavy lens. I carry it and two 1 series all the time. Put the big Siggy on a 1 series and you have 13 pounds.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Mallard — Sun, 17 Jan 2016 22:52:18 GMT

I would like to thank all of your suggestions and advice!

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

lawrence — Sat, 20 Feb 2016 01:04:46 GMT

Shooting in low light environment, 2.8 is way better than 5.6. Increase your ISO might help but you will end up with very noisy pictures. Go for a 70-200 F2.8 IS II, you won't regret. (well, 90% you won't regret)

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Waddizzle — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 19:02:31 GMT

"You guys that complain about the weight need to spend some quality time in the gym! The 70-200mm f2.8 is not even a heavy lens."

For me, at least, the problem isn't holding the lens to take shots. It's knowing how to carry the rig for an hour or two. I invested in a good camera holster. I don't trust the "6D" camera strap that came with the camera, mainly because the weight of the lens wasn't supported.

Overcast day, 200mm, f/2.8, 1/1250, ISO-100.....focus was in the center, which was not a high contrast spot.

But, it finally warmed up a bit, and I managed to get outside take some photos with the EF-70-200mm f/2.8 IS II USM lens, mounted on my 6D. It is most definitely a sharp lens.

This lens reminds me of the first pair of high quality stereo speakers I bought. Those speakers were merciless in the sound quality they reproduced. You could hear the difference between good and bad recordings. Similarly, I can see all of the flaws and imperfections in the subjects that I shoot.

I'm still learning this lens, of course, but I can tell that I am going to get some fantastic looking shots from it.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 19:37:09 GMT

"I'm still learning this lens, of course, but I can tell that I am going to get some fantastic looking shots from it."

I am sure you will But now it is time to spend some quality time learning PS, or one of its rivals. Where the true magic happens!

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Waddizzle — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 21:00:38 GMT

"I am sure you will But now it is time to spend some quality time learning PS, or one of its rivals. Where the true magic happens!"

The landing sea gull needs a background sky. A layer mask can fix that. But, I really love the shot of the cannon. The lens is a pixel peeper's delight! I can zoom in on the barrel and see the brush strokes from the paint job.

WOW!

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 21:32:44 GMT

It (ef 70-200mm f2.8 L II) and its little brother the 24-70mm f2.8L II are the best there is. Of that there is no doubt. I see where brand_N tried again to best the ef 24-70mm and fell short ... again.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Mon, 22 Feb 2016 21:35:23 GMT

"The landing sea gull needs a background sky."

For starters! But who am I to say, if you are pleased, so am I.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

Waddizzle — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 13:29:31 GMT

@ebiggs1 wrote:
"The landing sea gull needs a background sky."

For starters! But who am I to say, if you are pleased, so am I.

I have some nice shots of clouds that I could mask in place around the bird. For the severity of the overcast, I think the bird shot came out fairly well. The lens wasn't having any trouble focusing on the bird. I had the wind at my back, so the birds were taking off and landing into the wind, which was towards me.

The shots of the gull and the cannon taught me a lot about the depth of field at f/2.8. In fact, I'm still learning the nuances of DoF, in general. I have been getting a feel for how "deep" the DoF is when focusing on subjects are varying distances and zoom settings. However, the bird and the cannon were shot at nearly similar distances, about 10 yards. It is not a coincidence that both shots were taken at about a 45 degree angle relative to the front of the subject. I was trying to get a feel for how "deep" the DoF actually was.

The gull was shot at 200mm. The bird has a wingspan of a good three feet, or more, maybe four feet. The focus point was on the bird's lower right portion of its' belly, where there is a slight contrasting area. That is also where the image is the sharpest. I was aiming for the head, but wound up with the belly on this shot. The head is closer to the camera than the belly, so it appears slightly out of focus. Likewise, the wingtips are behind and in front of the DoF.

The cannon was shot at 70mm. It is roughly 20 feet long, maybe just over. This time the focus point was in the center of the image, on the teeth of a gear below the barrel, which had good contrast. This time the DoF seems to be "deeper", because the entire length of the cannon is in sharp focus, unlike the bird's wingtips and head.

Like I said, I am getting a feel for the lens. The bird shots that I took at f/5.6 captured the entire wingspan of the birds in sharp focus. It seems that I'm getting a focus point that is not in the middle of the DoF, but slightly away from center towards the front edge of it. Most all of the lenses behave that way in AF mode, but the size of the field seems to vary from one lens to the next, even at similar focal lengths.

Last comment.. My first lens had somewhat of a loose fit. This one seems to be stuck on the camera.

Re: Canon EF 70mm-200mm is ll USM Lens

ebiggs1 — Tue, 23 Feb 2016 14:30:11 GMT

"... the size of the field seems to vary from one lens to the next, even at similar focal lengths."

You know this is impossible? DOF is a constant. It matters not what lens it is if the focal length, aperture and distance from subject is the same DOF is the same.

There is, IMHO, one adjustment that must be applied to each photo. That is Lens Correction. I do this to every one as a preset in LR. But that is just my preference.

I won't say what I would do to yours as that is up to you but lens correction would be first.