Need help!!
I have rented a Canon 400 mm 2.8L lens (no IS) for this weekend at Laguna Seaca. I just gave it a test run and if I mount it on my mono pod it wobbles around like a drunk.
This thing a monster!! Weighs in at about 12 lbs. to 15 lbs. One of the reasons I wanted a 300 but alas this was not to be. :cry
The only way I can seem to stabilize this set up is to mount it to a ball head on my tripod and loosen up the ball head. This will allow free movement within the range of the ball head movement, but does limit my ability to quickly shoot something not in this range.
What do you all do to shoot with a lens like this?
Thanks for any suggestions or techniques you can pass along.
Sam
This thing a monster!! Weighs in at about 12 lbs. to 15 lbs. One of the reasons I wanted a 300 but alas this was not to be. :cry
The only way I can seem to stabilize this set up is to mount it to a ball head on my tripod and loosen up the ball head. This will allow free movement within the range of the ball head movement, but does limit my ability to quickly shoot something not in this range.
What do you all do to shoot with a lens like this?
Thanks for any suggestions or techniques you can pass along.
Sam
0
Comments
Contact me to borrow, but my schedule is _really_ limited and it might be hard to find me.
Like anything, it just takes a little practice to get used to it.
When I had a 400 from Canon on loan, it was a beast. I just ended up hand holding.. because I used it so little (team I intended on using it for didn't make it all the way in the playoffs as I expected.
Also, using it low? Beanbag?
What monopod? Is it strong enough? When I got my 300 2.8, the first thing I realized is that I needed a stronger monopod.
He's right, Sam. It's all about technique. Look at the shooters at any pro sports game. They're shooting 400,500, and even some 600m lenses all on monopods.
There are two methods. Some prefer to put your left hand directly above the monopod mount. The other(which I prefer), is to place your left hand on the lens hood.
http://www.knippixels.com
If April can hand hold a 400 2.8L I ain't gona mess wither no more!
This thing is huge and HEAVY! It's an older lens and does not have IS.
It is wicked sharp wide open.
Sam
Link to my Smugmug site
Take Kdog up on his offer and use your tripod.
Nikon D4, Nikon D3, Nikon D3
Nikon 14-24 f2.8, Nikon 24-70 f2.8, Nikon 70-200 f2.8 VR II, Nikon 50 f1.8, Nikon 85 f1.4
Nikon 300 f2.8 VR, Nikon 200-400 f4.0 VR II, Nikon 600 f4.0 II, TC-1.4, TC 1.7, TC 2.0
(1) SB-800, (2) SB-900, (4) Multi Max Pocket Wizards
I used a tripod for the 400mm and the rest were hand held. All the other photographers with big lenses were using mono pods. I did watch their technique and will try that at some future event.
Sam
Link to my Smugmug site
Great lens and I feel the auto focus works better than the 2.8.
Plus its WAY lighter and is easier to shoot with all day.
A mono pod is fine at some sporting events but IMO suck for motor sports and I NEVER use them.
Hope it worked out for you , but next time go with the F4, you will be VERY happy you did!!!
Hey! I spent good money for three legs and I'm gona use them all.
The idea of a mono is in the weight savings and maybe some additional flexibility. Once I trotted the tripod out there why not use it?
Sam
I am going to try a 300 mm 4.0, and maybe a 400 mm 4.0 sometime. These are much lighter and affordable.
Sam
Link to my Smugmug site
As far as tripods, it depends on the track and the series. Some series at some tracks will state no tripods in the photo meeting. Usually at larger road courses there is no issue since there is so much room around the track. Interestingly enough the ALMS event I helped cover at Road America made that stipulation, though it was quickly waived off by the track photographer, but not in pit lane since there is so little space even for the teams.
Oops.....10 minutes to get out to the turn for the next race.
Sam