Originally Posted by neuroanatomist
True, the IS would work IF they hold still, and they're more likely to hold still with a 300mm than a 200mm lens. The 200mm f/2.8 wouldn't just be for getting a high shutter speed, but also for isolation, which the which the longer 300mm lens wouldn't be as good at. If I did opt for the 200mm, I could also turn it into a 280 f/4 with an extender, enhancing it's usefulness, but without IS that's going to need decent light that I won't find in the forest.
But, the new 70-300 is f/5.0 @ 200mm, so 2.333 stops better for still subjects, but also 1.666 stops worse for isolation. The 300mm f/4 isn't significantly faster than the zoom, and with worse IS, it seems like the wrong choice. It's worse than the zoom for static scenes, though likely a bit sharper, and only a touch better for action or isolation. Not enough of a difference to earn my dollars. Granted, it could also be paired with an extender, giving me a 420mm option, which could be nice.
My only hope is that photokina unveils some awesome new lens that makes my upgrade path clear.
The used market is tough. Most EBay sellers, only want to deal with the US. In Ottawa, the people on the used boards tend to ask nearly full price, based on the price at Henry's, which tends to be one of the more expensive retailers. I can often find something new cheaper than used. The bargains are rare here, from what I've seen. Half my lenses, and my body are Adorama's Canon refurbs, so I'm not adverse to 'not-new' if I can get a decent savings.
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