I'm new to photography so I want some opinions about what Canon lens you prefer for sports photography. The vast majority of my picture taking is done during daylight hours but some under stadium lighting conditions. My position is sidelines or bleachers. What telephoto zoom works best for you? Would f2.8 be necessary or could I go to f4 or more? I am contemplating taking a big plunge and going for the EF 400mm f2.8 IS. Is it necessary to go this far? Could I get away with a 300mm? Do I need the f2.8? Would a 100-400 4.5 be enough? My camera is a Canon 1Ds MkII with a full frame sensor. No crop factor. Hope this helps give you an idea of what I need.
Thanks in advance!
Kurt (newbie photo bug)

Since you are new here, perhaps a quick read of the forum rules for this board would be good. Read this and post in the proper forum.

But yes if you are shooting sports you need 2.8. And no a 100-400 won't do you any good unless you are shooting in bright sunshine for sports. Frame rate is slow on the 1DsMKII for sports unless you are really good with timing.


Matt

my recommendation is to use some lower quality lenses with the focal lengths that you are looking for first. If you don't know whether you can get away with a 300mm, use a cheap 70-300mm zoom and see if the 300mm is enough. Taking our word when you could just see for yourself wouldn't be the smartest thing to do. Yeah, you'll want an f/2.8. you might not NEED it at first, but down the line you'll want it so you may as well get it now.

Hi

I'd recommend you go to your local camera store and see if you can hire couple of lenses i.e. 300mm/400mm and see how you go rather than departing with alot of $$$$$. Unless you know another photographer friend you can borrow gear from.

Even though the Canon 1Ds MkII maynot have the frame rate of the 1DMK2 it has the same AF tracking module which is more important.

cheers
V