High ISO advise

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Originally Posted by Lumens

WOW! Thanks for all the advice. I'm going to have to make a list of the things to try and perhaps get braver with the things I've already tried. I know a better lens ("L") or Full Frame might resolve my issues, but learning how to use the excellent equipment I already have will make me a better photographer. The better equipment can come once I learn how to REALLY use what I already have.

Thanks again!

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as with many of us money is an issue
start out with a canon 70-200 f4
the speed and sharpness of this lens will improve your shot quite a bit. You will not miss that 300

Yes, I agree with HD. "L" doesn't necessarily fix anything. The "L" 70-300 has the same variable aperture as the non-L, it's just sharper and focuses faster. And for that it costs $1600, instead of $650. Being an "L" didn't solve your problem, just lightened your wallet.

However, there are options, depending on your needs. At 200mm, the 70-300mm is f/5.0 (see chart here for many lenses: http://www.the-digital-picture.com/R...ns-Review.aspx ). If all you need is 200mm, the 200mm f/2.8L can get you f/2.8 (1 2/3 stops faster than f/5) for just $800. Much better than the $3000/stop prices HD mentions at 300mm. And it's super sharp to boot. You can even throw on an extender and get a 280 f/4 lens, mimicking the long range of your 70-300 (though much slower at switching between 200 and 280mm than your zoom lens!)

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Originally Posted by DavidEccleston

Yes, I agree with HD. "L" doesn't necessarily fix anything. The "L" 70-300 has the same variable aperture as the non-L, it's just sharper and focuses faster. And for that it costs $1600, instead of $650. Being an "L" didn't solve your problem, just lightened your wallet.

However, there are options, depending on your needs. At 200mm, the 70-300mm is f/5.0 (see chart here for many lenses: http://www.the-digital-picture.com/R...ns-Review.aspx ). If all you need is 200mm, the 200mm f/2.8L can get you f/2.8 (1 2/3 stops faster than f/5) for just $800. Much better than the $3000/stop prices HD mentions at 300mm. And it's super sharp to boot. You can even throw on an extender and get a 280 f/4 lens, mimicking the long range of your 70-300 (though much slower at switching between 200 and 280mm than your zoom lens!)

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I also agree the "L" alone isn't a panacea but.....what I suggested is that the BEST upgrade for BIF work would be an L series supertele rather than a camera body to replace the 7D. Of course it's not the only viable option and I did mention it would hurt the pocket book!

Buy my 5d Mark II's!!!!