Question by silentv: What is the difference between a telephoto zoom and standard zoom?
I am looking at puchasing:
Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6 IS USM Lens
or
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4L USM Telephoto Zoom Lens
Both similar in price at about $ 550. I am thinking about shooting in the 200mm range. I am puchasing this for mainly nature/wildlife photos.
Also I have a Cannon 35mm Rebel T2 body, is this camera body ‘good’ enough to use these lens on. Or am I just wasting my money? Currently I am using the standard 28-90mm lens that was included.
Best answer:
Answer by fhotoace
For what you are shooting, nature and wildlife, the longer the lens the better, so in your case the 30-300mm will suit your needs. You may find yourself wanting something longer later, but those lenses are not zoom lenses (like the 600mm f/4.0 Canon)
The difference between a standard zoom and a telephoto zoom is pretty much what it says. The standard zoom covers focal lengths that are considered to be in the standard range of use. Telephoto zooms do indeed cover the focal ranges that are considered telephoto.
Know better? Leave your own answer in the comments!
buy 70-300mm…
BUT…
You can do a simple test, buy a duplicator ring , turn your
90mm to 180mm or more, for US$ 40.00.
When you will be more experienced, buy the real lens !!
First, it’s never a waste of money to buy the best lens you can afford. Your camera body will be obsolete in a few years, but a good quality lens can last you for decades.
You have an interesting decision to make. The 70-300mm has a longer focal length and IS image stabilization. But it’s best aperture is f/5.6 at 300mm.
The 70-200 has the shorter focal length and no IS. But it is a pro-grade “L” series Canon with a fast, f/4 aperture from one end to the other.
You say you expect to shoot in the 200mm range. I would go to your local camera store and give both of the lenses a try. What is the best aperture of the 70-300mm when zoomed to 200mm? If it’s close to f/4 – like the 70-200 offers – I would likely pick that and it’s extra 100mm and IS for the same price.
The professional grade of the 70-200 “L” lens isn’t to be discounted. It’s a fine, pro-quality lens. But if you’re new to photography, I think the extra 100mm and IS of the 70-300mm would give you more fun.
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