Alternate Lens

[Bjvanm]

I shoot a lot of kids softball and swimming with a Canon XTI. I would really like to purchase the CANON EF 70-200MM F2.8L IS USM but it is out of my price range. I feel need the f2.8 (lighing in pools is not good). What would be a good alternative lens?

[inkista]

Do you have a budget?

Most folks would point you to a Tamron or Sigma 70-200 f/2.8, and maybe using a monopod instead of in-lens stabilization.

[Bjvanm]

Budget is less than $1000.

[inkista]

The Tamron & Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 lenses are within your budget. You may also want to consider using a monopod instead of IS. If you can go a little over $1000, there are also the f/4 IS, or the f/2.8 non-IS versions of the 70-200L.

If you're willing to give up zoom and IS, there's also the EF 135mm f/2L USM, which is just under your budget, or the EF 100mm f/2 USM (which is around $450).

[GadgetRick]

The Sigma version has gotten solid reviews and can be found used for quite a bit under $1000.

[Henry Wilt]

I recently bought the Sigma and have been very pleased with it so far (although I don't feel I am doing it justice at the moment ). I chose that over the Tamron because it had the HSM and was grateful at the weekend when I was shooting my daughters in a Taekwondo competiton that I did.

[heatherwb]

How about the EF 70-200/4 IS? Brand new, it does go a bit over your budget, but if you shop carefully, you might be able to pick up a gently used one for $1000 or a little bit less. The IQ is great, as well as the IS, which might very well make up for the stop you'd lose by not getting the 2.8 (Canon or otherwise). It's also lightweight enough so handholding isn't a problem, either.

HTH,
Heather

[OsmosisStudios]

IS only helps for stationary subject: the OP is looking for a lens for sports. f/2.8 is best then.