will a1.4-2 auto focus as well as a 1.4-3 on a 7d mark2 /100-400-2

[wln · Accepted solution]

thanks for the info.

I'll try the old one first.

[ScottyP]

Teleconverters?

[ebiggs1]

Yes.  What?

[wln]

i have a 7d mark 2 with a new 100-400 mark 2 telephoto and 1.4 mark 2 teleconverter(older model)

do i need to get the new 1.4 mark 3 teleconverter or is the older model teleconverter going to work as well?

[Skirball]

The mark III teleconverters are supposed to have slightly better optics and improved electronics for faster/better AF on certain lenses.  I'd guess that the 100-400 II has the new electronics, being new and all, but can't say for sure. 

All that said, I don't know that you're going to see a huge leap in AF performance.  It certainly wouldn't be worth ditching the II without first giving it a shot.  If possible, trying renting a III and see if you really can notice the difference.  My guess is no, but who knows.  Placebo is a powerful thing.

[wln · Accepted solution]

thanks for the info.

I'll try the old one first.

[RobertTheFat]

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@Skirball wrote:

The mark III teleconverters are supposed to have slightly better optics and improved electronics for faster/better AF on certain lenses.  I'd guess that the 100-400 II has the new electronics, being new and all, but can't say for sure. 

All that said, I don't know that you're going to see a huge leap in AF performance.  It certainly wouldn't be worth ditching the II without first giving it a shot.  If possible, trying renting a III and see if you really can notice the difference.  My guess is no, but who knows.  Placebo is a powerful thing.

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I'm a total newbie in this context, having never used a teleconverter, so definitely consider the source. But I've been surprised, over the years, at how easy it is to learn to see the differences that better equipment can make. (And not just in photography either.) Once someone tells you, or you start to figure out, what to look for, differences that were once invisible can become obvious. I've had occasion to look back at, say, a lens that I once thought perfectly fine and wonder, "How on earth did I ever tolerate this piece of junk?" 

[ebiggs1 · Accepted solution]

"how easy it is to learn to see the differences that better equipment can make."

Bob from Boston,

What a novel concept. And an emphatic, yes. I always tell new photographers to buy the best they can afford.  However, the best lens or camera in the world is of little value, if it costs so much you can't afford to buy it.  So there is a balance to be considered.

Buy the best and cry once.