rick_phung2

I have been shooting with my D30 for over a year now, with the same zoom lenses that you listed. The 28-135IS is very good and is my most versatile lens, but I notice my L's still have the edge (however slight). Wide open at f/4, I can tell the difference along the image edges, even with the D30's smaller sensor. Center sharpness is more similar.

 

After doing my own testing, I am convinced as are most people, that the 28-135 somehow underexposed by 1/3 to 1/2 stop, CONSISTENTLY. So the image may seem lacking contrast or sharpness because of that. Try shooting with a +1/3 compensation and see if it helps.

In addition to the weight, you also have to consider how far that weight is from the tripod mount. Imagine holding a phone book at arm's length vs. against your chest. (Doesn't feel the same, does it?) I know it is not necessary, but I got one anyway, especially for macro shooting (with the Nikon 6T). A tripod mounted 70-200/4L with hood attached will sway more with the slightest breeze than a tripod-collar mounted one. That's my story and I'm sticking with it...8-)

 

Oh yeah, get the black one. $79 at B&H.

The 28-135 IS is arguably the best non-L zoom from Canon, with the 28-105 and 24-85 close behind. All three will perform quite well when stopped down a stop or two.

 

The IS gives an extra two stop of handholdability and costs the most. About $400.

 

The 28-105 is the the smallest which is great for trekking. About $200.

 

The 24-85 give you a bit more on the wide end plus it shares the same flter size with your 70-200/4L (67mm). About $300.

 

Good luck.

This might fit the bill nicely. It costs about $200, covers 80-105mm which is a good portrait focal lens, and is actually quite good optically. Depending on distance, you probably don't want to shoot at less than f/4 at 100mm; the DOF is very thin. Oh and this is definitely much better than the 28-80 kit lens.

Just tried it on my D30 + 420EX. IR assist indeed does work, but only in the "One Shot" AF mode. It does not work in the "AI Servo" AF mode (why? because the beam would be on forever since the AF is contantly trying to focus).

 

Donald, have you tried changing the AF mode to One Shot? If it still does not work, try it with another body or flash (if possible) or send it to Canon.

I had the 300/4L IS before replacing it with the 100-400L IS and have been very happy with the decision. The prime is slightly sharper (very slight). However, the convenience of the zoom was more important to me. BTW, I tend to shoot in situations where a tripod is not feasible. There are times when I think the prime could have produced a better shot, but was I willing to haul along the TC's and change the lens there and then? Nope. All the more reason for going with the zoom.

 

Which ever you choose, I highly recommend going with IS. You may seldom use it but when you need it (on a rocking boat deck, in a 'mobile' environment, etc.) you will greatly appreciate the flexibility it gives you.

 

As for the Photodo numbers, I take them as suggestive guidelines.

I find it hard to believe that a prime (300/4L IS, score=3.4) would actually rate lower than a zoom (100-400L IS, score=3.6). Even the 28-135 IS, which is non-L and a zoom, scored a 3.5. But that is all a numbers game...