Quote Originally Posted by naturac
I had been told the 100-400 is basically used for objects that don't move, but I have seen some great bird shots, including the hummingbird in flight on the bird photo post on this site.

Who told you that? The 100-400mm was practically made for things that move, the zoom range allows you to frame your subject as it moves in and out. It dosen't have the fastest apeture but with todays cameras in decent light it's sufficient. Unless you are trying to shoot low light action then it can be a problem.


From the intonation of your post it sounds like you are trying to shoot birds and need reach. The 100-400mm is far superior for that.The 400mmf/5.6 would beeven better but it's quite limiting for other uses.If you are using it for more of a general purposezoomthen a 70-200mm might make more sense, but a 100-400mm would be an excelent choice also. If you aregoing to mix someportriats a 70-200mm f/2.8non-IS or ISwould be you best choice. It would help a lot in low light also.


John.