Just an update: Based on a suggestion from one of you, I put my 50d and 100-400l on my aluminum bogan tripod. found a target and went to live view at X10 magnification and IS off-----wow, the constant vibration wasimpressive--I would have never guessed.


I then went to my kitchen, put the camera and lens on the counter top, with a couple of books to prop up the lens and did the same thing. Absolutely no motion, no vibration, and most impressive---tack sharp images at 100%, they even looked pretty good at 200%.


Though I can't blame an inexpensivetripod on all my difficulties, I think I just found the solution to one of them--


Unfortunately, now my equipment "want list" just changed---Hmmm, another L lens or Gitzo 55 series sticks and comparable ball head.


Thanks to all (from various posts) for thier suggestions and insight.





Bob