Is the Canon 500 f/4.5 a decent lens to start with?
I found a Canon 500 f/4.5 locally (~$3k). Will it be a decent choice for use either on tripod or on a beanbag? I did pick up a Wimberley head for my tripod in anticipation of picking up a 500. I have used my OM 350 w/ a 1.4x, so the focal length isn't totally new, but it will be different and exciting having AF. :)
I have read it's hard to get repairs on this lens, but that they are pretty bulletproof in the field and not prone to needing repairs.
Your advice, please?
It doesn't have IS but should be perfectly fine on a tripod. What camera body would you use it with? If it is a xxD body, it might not AF with 1.4x TC attached.
What Axel said.
Plus, I have a friend with one and a newer 600mm. He gets superb pictures with the 500 f/4.5.
I would be using it with 7D. Good point that that f/4.5 won't AF w/ a 1.4x. Hmmm. Gotta think about that aspect. :cool:Originally Posted by Axel Hildebrandt
Thanks David. Is the friend in SW Colorado? The lens is currently owned by a pro in my area. The sample shots on his site look great.
For the money, you are getting close to a 300 f/2.8 L IS.
Roger
Hi Roger, Not sure if I'd use that FL as much?
The 500mm F4.5 is an outstanding lens. Very light and portable. Excellent optics. Negatives include lack of IS no AF with 1.4x unless you use a 1 series camera and the fact that canon doesn't service the lens anymore.
Well, I bought it. Test photos that I took at his place were very sharp, and it is nice and light compared to the IS version.
Thanks for the info!
Meesh,
Looking forward to seeing the images and congratulations.
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