Hello gailb,
The L stands for Last. Once you have an L lens in whatever focal length you choose, unless your needs necessitate a fast maximum aperture, it will be the Last one you need in that focal length.
Jim.
I think of the 400mm L every time I use the camera. However, I've decided not to get it at this time. I'm not sure my use of it will justify the cost. I didn't enjoy carrying it around either. I love photographing wildlife but it's not something I do frequently.
I'm renting other focal length lenses to see if there is a lens better than my kit lenses that I'll get more regular use. A Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 arrives tomorrow.
I will eventually a higher quality lens; but I'm in no rush.
You know Galib, if you are not real concerned about high quality expensive optics, I might suggest you try out a 28-300 Sigma. They are pretty inexpensive and the versatility is very handy. One reason I dare mention that lens is that it is super light. When it is closed down to 28mm it is hardly any larger than the 18-55 kit lens. Even at full telephoto, it is still very compact. I have the lens myself and although I never use it these days because I did move on to some expensive long telephotos, I was always able to produce images that were indistinguishable from some better glass. The thing that was a concern if I was going to make large prints is that sometimes there was a purple fringing effect. It is a cheap option but I think real good bang for the buck.
