Extension tubes for SW Florida/400mm?

[cappoldt]

Hi folks,

Quick question - with three days' shooting coming up, and a 400mm 2.8 and 300mm f4, should I be packing extension tubes? Planning on shore birds and wading birds in lagoons and such. Minimum FD with the 400mm is 11 ft. - can't imagine getting much closer than that to a subject?

Thanks in advance!

[Daniel Cadieux]

Sure, why not? My 100-400's minimum focussing distance is much less than yours and I've been within that distance many times with shorebirds (and others), and Florida birds are generally much tamer than ours! I think you might kick yourself if you miss some great portrait close-up opportunities...besides, extention tubes are rather small and easy to bring along and to slap on/off.

[Rocky Sharwell]

Bring them....I have had small shorebirds come right up to the hood of my 600 when on my belly at Ft. Desoto.

A fundamental principal of photography is that you will end up needing whatever you leave at home.

[Alfred Forns]

Agree with Rocky !!! They will walk over your lens hood !!!

If you are flat on the mud, the little guys will approach well withing minimum focusing distance Do bring them .... more than one. I like to carry 3 25mm !!!

[Robert Amoruso]

Alfred correct, you may need them.

[Paul Pagano]

YES! I don't have any yet and I missed them on the first time out with my 400 f/5.6L. Sometimes you can get really close but the bugger won't focus! Argh! I am ordering some this week. I upgraded from a Sigma 50-500 so I never missed them before!

[Maxis Gamez]

I have to agree with Al or just leave it and bring your 24-70 :)

Joking! :)