Canon 70 - 200mm f/2.8 lens comparisons?

[Darren Rowse]

Does anyone have any experience with the two f2.8 70-200mm lenses (ie the IS and non IS versions)?

I've had an f4 but have been lusting after the extra speed of the f/2.8 but now am unsure which one to go for. Is the extra expense of IS worth it?

Anyone done the research and feel like sharing?

[Darren Rowse]

i might have answered my own questions with some reviews here (http://photo.net/equipment/canon/70-200) and here (http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/Canon-EF-70-200mm-f-2.8-L-IS-USM-Lens-Review.aspx) which both seem to argue strongly for the IS version if you don't mind the extra weight and cost.

[sdjl]

I have the f/2.8 IS version.
I've got no experience with the non IS version as I couldn't afford to buy both :D
My IS version is nice to use, if a little weighty at first.

There are two IS modes for it:
Mode 1 tries to correct all vibrations it encounters.
Mode 2 only corrects vibrations or movement on the vertical axis, which enables you to pan with longer shutter speeds and "follow subjects that are moving erratically".

Any other questions about the IS version feel free to ask away :)

David

[Darren Rowse]

thanks David - I think I'll save a touch longer and go for the IS version. Everyone I've talked to that has tested both says it gives an extra three stops which sounds worth the extra dollars.

[bugdog]

I was in the same situation and the more you read the harder the decision
becomes.
I stumbled onto this review site here which explains the strengths and weaknesses of all the Canon lenses in an easy to understand way.
Link is Below
http://www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/

[robwilliams]

I've heard rumors that the IS version has a tendancy to make your photos "softer" and not as sharp

[Quamen]

I just purchased the non-IS version (arrived yesterday). An upgrade from an old 75-300 f4.5-5.6

You're right about the decision being a hard one, the more you read the harder it becomes. I went for the non-IS because the price difference was just too great for someone like myself who is a hobby photographer.

I've also heard the IS version being softer, but have no idea if there is any truth to that. So far I'm happy, my first L series lens.

First good shot with it...

http://farm1.static.flickr.com/150/345285036_0488f90880.jpg (http://www.flickr.com/photos/quamen/345285036/)