duffguy808

When I first tried this lens on a Canon 1D body, I was surprise by the ease of handling aspect. I would say it's a lot easier to be handheld than the 300mm f/2.8 IS. I am not really tripod kind of shooter. After trying it out for an hour, my arm and back doesn't complaint like the when I use the 300mm.

I haven't been able to make an educated decision on which lens have the IQ edge; the 200mm or the 300mm. It is fair to say that both lenses' IQ blow me away everytime I view the pictures taken with them. So if you are deciding between these two lenses, skip out 4 mortgage payments and buy both. That way, you won't stay up at night wonder what if.

I have to agree with everyone's statement about the IS system. With the IS on, I have more sharp pictures with this lens than the 85mm f/1.2 II in the same lighting condition.

This lens does draw a lot of attention like the other Canon super telephoto lenses. I feel like I am going to get mug when I use it outdoor. I wish it was black.

The Canon OEM lens trunk is good for storage only. I bought a Pelican case and customized the foam so it holds the lens with or without a 1D body.

I know I'll get diss for this but I hope the price doesn't go down in the future because I would feel stupid for paying such a premium on the lens.