chrisw_photog

Have you also considered using some of the IS lenses from Canon? I have the 70-200 F2.8 IS and the difference is quite striking at as many as three stops. Then when necessary I can add my 1.4x extender with only losing one stop. this would be equally true on the primes and would save duplicative purchases...

 

The other complicating factor I've experienced was switching from the 20D to the 5D...for my studio work it's been an amazing change getting much greater versatility out of my 24-70 f2.8. Since this represents the majority of my use I'm quite satisfied with the change.

 

However, for outdoor and telephoto applications I really miss the built in 1.6 extension. While I realize the sensor in my 5D is larger and would allow for a cropped image nearly identical as the 20D it doesn't work in practice since framing/composition is so different. It makes me regret selling my 20D which would come in handy as a backup and outdoor camera.

 

So after the long diatribe it could be beneficial to pick up a second rig as William mentioned but make sure it has an APS-H sensor so you get closer off the bat. ( I didn't read through all of your other posts so if you have a 20D this isn't an option...but anyway.)

I work for an advertising agency for my day job and the one thing I can relate that might help is this, only art directors get the separate 23" displays while copyrighters get 20"iMacs. In speaking with the creatives they said the ACD's are better than the iMac G5s. I have the HP L2335 which is the same panel as the 23"ACD and it's simply amazing!

My L2335 just arrived today replacing my analog only 17 LCD, all I can say is holy crap! This display is amazing, especially after calibrating with monaco. HP.com had it to me in 2 days for 1250 since they're running a "Smart Buy" on it right now...

I bought mine at B&H, the rebate expires in 3 days so you better act fast! www.bhphoto.com

The 20D grip is plastic, but I don't know about the 10D grip. I would have preffered a metal grip but the fit of the 20D grip is great (for me, I've heard others were'nt so lucky) and it works perfectly for me.

Aside from the obvious additional battery life and vertical shooting properties, I think the most important reason for buying the grip is if you use larger L series lenses like the 70-200 2.8 IS or the 24-70 L. Adding the grip makes using both of these lenses much easier for me and much more comfortable. My .02...

In March I upgraded from the drebel to the 20d and I am very happy I did! I got the 20d for 1250(with rebate and recent price drop) and sold my drebel for 475 (body only) within a week. The metering is better, the ETTL-II is far superior and the speed for processing images and camera start-up leave no comparison between the two bodies. The ISO change is nice but another point is that the 20D shows less noise at all ISOs so the gain is increased more than just the range.

 

I also purchased the 24-70,the 70-200 IS, and the 1.4 converter. The combination of lenses and new body have given me the tools to take amazing pictures and have facilitated some great leaps in technique. Now I just need time to go out and shoot...

 

I think you need to ask yourself what are your real needs and what will be the best way to meet them...

I have the 20D with both the 24-70 and the 70-200 IS, and the combo are magnificent. I also use the 1.4x converter and your effective zoom moves to 448 at f4. if 448 is long enough then there really is no question between the 70-200 and the 100-400.

Chris