any tutorials to properly use canon 70-200 f2.8L is II usm lens?

[kertl7779]

I am a novice, but want to learn properly the use of  canon 70-200 f2.8L is II usm lens. Please help with my question. I am using a canon 60D camera. Thanks

[kertl7779]

Thanks, I think using a monopod will help rather than using a tripod because of space need at minor league games

[amfoto1]

Leaving IS on also helps stabilize the image in the viewfinder, which can be helpful with moving subjects.

There's no need to turn IS off, even on a tripod. If there's no movement, the 70-200 IS lenses self-detect and turn IS off automatically (so do the super telephotos with IS).

The only times I'd recommend turning IS off is if taking really long exposures or possibly when shooting video. Occasionally when there is no movement, IS causes the image to "drift" slowly. This isn't a problem at normal shutter speeds and shooting stills, but can effect long exposures and video. You also might turn IS off if you need to conserve battery power... but it really doesn't use much, so you won't save much. I've shot 1200+ images with dual LP-E6, all with IS, and still had plenty of charge in the batteries to keep shooting.

For sports shooting, you will likely want to use AI Servo mode and probably will get the best results using only the center AF point, at least to start. Later you might expand to use other AF points, too.

You also might want to try Back Button Focusing. It's a popular technique among sports photographers.

There is a series of three Youtube tutorials regarding Canon auto focus that I recommend viewing, posted by B&H Photo. The first of the three approx. half hour videos is here. It's not specific to that particular lens and discusses various camera models, though not the latest. However, your 60D's AF system is pretty much identical to the 50D's, which is discussed in some detail. Watch all three and they will help you get the best out of your camera and lens.

***********
Alan Myers

San Jose, Calif., USA
"Walk softly and carry a big lens."
GEAR: 5DII, 7D(x2), 50D(x3), some other cameras, various lenses & accessories
FLICKR & PRINTROOM 

[pjmacd]

Tim, that's a wonderful shot. Thanks for explaining mode 2 - I always wondered what that was for, having forgotten to RTFM.

[kertl7779]

Thanks for taking the time to explain and suggestions for taking better photos. Also thanks for suggesting I view the 3 videos about focusing, awesome information by watching all 3 of the tutorials.

Thanks again

Franklin Leon

[benrub]

Hi everyone,

This thread has been helpful.

I was wondering if I could get some advice.

This Sunday I'm shooting a road race.

I'll be standing in one spot while runners run toward me and then pass me by.

I'll be hand-holding, and will need to move around a bit in all directions to get the shots.

Which IS mode should I use? 

Thanks,

Ben

[RobertTheFat]

---

@benrub wrote:

Hi everyone,

This thread has been helpful.

I was wondering if I could get some advice.

This Sunday I'm shooting a road race.

I'll be standing in one spot while runners run toward me and then pass me by.

I'll be hand-holding, and will need to move around a bit in all directions to get the shots.

Which IS mode should I use? 

Thanks,

Ben

---

Mode 2 if you're panning, mode 1 otherwise. Note that what matters isn't how much you had to move around to get the shot, but whether you're moving in either the horizontal or vertical direction while you're shooting. At least that's how I read what the manual says. I've used my 70-200 IS II quite a lot, but I don't believe I've ever used mode 2.

[ebiggs1]

These are people you are shooting?  Boy that sounds bad, doesn't it?   Anyway if it is I would not use Mode 2.  Just leave it on Mode 1 and use One Shot.  Use just the center focus point.  Turn the others off.  Use a fairly high ISO, say 800.  I would try Av first but if conditions warrant, I might switch to Tv.  Can't give specifics without knowing or seeing the exact conditions.

Two things, IS does not fix a moving subject.  It fixes a moving camera.  And secondly your location is more important than any of this.  So grab the best spot you can.

If it is where they throw that colored powder all over everything, be very careful.  It and cameras don't do well together.  Don't ask but I know!

[Tsleel2811]

I have the same exact setup. 60d with 70-200 II. I took me a while to master this lens. Non of my other L lenses have this many switches. I know this is the worst advice for someone asking for help but in the end you'll find its actually the best. Just go out and shoot. Trial and error. You know what you like and when you see what the camera gives you with your chosen settings. You try to correct and see what that gives you. You'll end up knowing your lens better and how it behaves. Good luck friend

[ebiggs1]

"Just go out and shoot."

You get the 'Gold Star' for the day!  

[AB100]

Great review.