Which Do You Recommend

[LoriG]

My husband is going to buy me a telephoto lens for Christmas. I love taking nature shots - I especially like to zoom in on birds, butterflies, and things like that. I am looking at the Canon EF 100-400 F4.5-5.6L IS or the new Sigma 150-500mm f/5-6.3. Has anyone used these? I am not locked into either one of these, so if you can recommend something else I am open to suggestions. I am trying to keep the cost at around $1000-$1200. Thanks in advance for your help.

LoriG

[Brian811]

I haven't used the Sigma but I really like my 100-400 L. The Canon would be a stop faster on the long end but then you are also giving up 100mm. I do use mine with a 1.4 tele sometimes even though I have to manually focus the lens. I guess it depends on how much reach you want to have. I also have the Canon 70-200 2.8 IS and it is really great with the 1.4 but it more than your price range for a new one. Good luck!!

[ricklepage]

I have the 100-400 L as well, and love all but the weight.

In general, I have nothing against the third-party lenses, but I tend to go with the Canon L stuff when I have a choice. I've never been disappointed with them, while some of the Tamron/Sigma teles haven't wowed me.

(I'd also add that the stop you'll lose at the 500 end of the Sigma will probably be noticed if you're birding.)

Rick

[LoriG]

Thanks for responding. I think I'm going to go with the Canon. Happy Holidays to you.

Lori

[lowbone]

Go with the Canon. Not only is it a better lens all around but www.lensrentals.com (http://www.lensrentals.com) recently published a letter to their customers saying they would no longer carry the Sigma long zooms because of the many problems their customers have experienced including optical quality as well as build quality