Sports kit - football (soccer)

<p>Hi there,<br>

I've been searching and reading for weeks but I still can't decide which kit should I get.<br>

I'll start shooting professional football but with my current kit (5D III + Primes) thats not really possible.<br>

What I can't decide between is a <strong>1D3</strong> or <strong>7D</strong> and <em>70-200mm 2.8 + 1.4x</em> or<em> 300mm f4 IS</em>.<br>

7D and 1D3 are between $850-1100. A 70-200mm 2.8 and a 300mm f/4 IS are also between 1000-1500.</p>

<p>Thank you!</p>

<p>I shoot Nikon so I cannot comment on the models. It would help to know are you shooting from the sidelines or the stands, and is this for daytime or night use, or both. </p>

<p>Based on the little you've told us, the 70-200 + 1.4x gives you the most flexibility both in terms of range and light. The 300 has a nice reach but if this is your only high quality lens, it may be too limiting for your needs. </p>

<p>Also make sure that you use a monopod as that will give you an extra f/stop. You can pick up a half-decent monopod and head for about $100. </p>

<p>Hi barry,<br>

I'll be shooting from the sidelines, both day and night (weekend games are in the afternoon).<br>

I do have a monopod, but only with a flat head (plate, w/e it is called), no ballhead or anything.<br>

I'm also worried about the AF speed loss with the 1.4x during the night.</p>

<h3> </h3>

<p>Hi Barry:<br>

I have the equipment you mentioned. If you can afford it get a 300mm F/2.8 and a 1.4 tele-extender and the 1D MK III or IV. The300 f/2,8 lens is way ahead of anything out there other than a 400 F/2.8. The 1D MK IV is significantly better than the MK III, in ISO and image size. I carry a monopod, but usually it just gets in the way. So I got pistol grip instead, works great.</p>