My daughter is graduating from HS in June. The Ceremony is at an outdoor ampetheater at night. There will be stage lighting (of course), and I'm not sure how close I can get, but my hunch is not too close. So I problably need a longer FL and large aperature. I'm planning on using my 1DMk3 for a bit longer reach (vs 5D). My choices are:
300 f/2.8 IS - (probably perfect, but too big and should have a monopod)
80-200 f/2.8 (drainpipe) - good FL range but no IS
70-200 f/4 IS - good FL range, IS, but a bit slow (maybe just bump up ISO a bit?)
135 f/2 with 1.4X - small, light, but no zoom or IS
85 f/1.2 - will probably take this for after the ceremony pictures.
50 f/1.4 - may take this for after the ceremony pictures instead of 85L
Please don't recommend a lens not on the list (I already have too many )
I will try to talk to the school to see if they will have a place for photographers and where it will be in relation to the stage. Any lens recommendations?
If you aren't interested in the best seat to see the ceremony and instead are focusing on getting the stage crossing shot, the 300/2.8L IS on a monopod from the back may be your best bet.
I peeked at your profile, and not sure why you left off some excellent choices from there.
My preference would be: 80-200/2.8L and 580ex, with 24-105/4L IS or 16-35/2.8 as the second lens. If I have to stick to the list above, 80-200/2.8L and 50/1.4, but I'm still taking the 580ex.
I agree that the 24-105 and 580EX would be a good lens after the ceremony. If I can perch from a distance spot (maybe the grassy knoll?) I'll take the 300, otherwise probably the 80-200.
I think the 16-35 would be too wide. Whatever I take, I'll probably wish I had something else.
I'd opt for an IS lens on the assumption that there will be relatively little movement at the key moments. e.g. while giving a speech or receiving a hand shake and a certificate. Instruct your daughter to stand close to the presenter, pause and face the crowd for a second or two while holding the certificate in view so that your photos will show no movement and she will not look like she's leaning over.
The 70-200 f/4 IS ought to do well with or without a monopod and offers more versatility if you happen to get close.
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