hoofstock stuff Hunt Test Judge

A mounted judge looks back over his shoulder as he waits for a brace

of dogs to make their way through a field planted with partridges.

Thanks for visiting.

I've viewed this several times and I like it very much. I'm impressed by the wonderful quality that you have here with the 70-200 lens and the 1.7 teleconverter. Perfect DOF and focus! Do you think this is a better option than say the 80-400 telephoto? Your work is constantly impressive!

Regards,

Dick

Thanks, Richard!

I suppose that if I had the 80-400, I'd use it, too. But within the range that the 70-200 natively provides, I think that it is going to prove to be a much more nimble focuser, and of course, f/2.8 is VERY helpful - both in providing a brighter view in the finder, and giving the camera's AF system more to work with. And of course, it's an AF-S lens, so it's quicker that way in the first place. When I put the 1.7 converter on it, even at 340mm, I'm still faster than the 80-400 when it's out at that range. I might be just a little softer, if I'm wide open, though. But if I use it right, it seems (as you see) pretty workable.

The real joy is in having the 70-200 at its normal focal lengths. It's incredibly sharp, solid, and pleasing to use. If I was worrying more about longer distances (and I do), then a long prime is talking to me... a 300/4 perhaps, which I could also multiply with the 1.7. But since I'm carrying the 70-200 anyway, for the closer-up work, the little bit of extra payload that the 1.7 gives me is a very good bargain for me.

Matt, the 70-200 is a good tool for you. I love all of your images, but these long shots are my favorite. I hope you are successful with your work (it looks like you are). I think a lot of photographers wonder how to "make it" in photography, and one of the ways I suggest is to find a niche and a market. You've done it well, it is unique, and you are a master of it.