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04/09/2009 12:24:12 AM · #1 |
Alright guys, before going any further, I did a search, but I have specific requirements for what I need.
Here's the backdrop, I love Baseball, NAY!, I eat, breathe, and sleep baseball. So naturally, I take in at least 30 MLB games each season. I would really like get the best possible shots while at the games. Now, I have a 55-200mm VR, you know, the cheapy 250$ gig. Usually, I sit within the first 10 rows, usually right at 1st or 3rd base, so I'm not that far away. I will have about around 1000$ for glass when its all said and done. I'm wondering, how much distance do I need? Is 200mm enough? I am going to have to hand-hold everything and here is the real pisser, I go to Marlin's games, and at Dolphin's Stadium, they don't allow any lenses over 8 inches. I also shoot wildlife allot so the lense will also be used for that, but primarily, Marlin's games. So I was wondering, what distance and what lense would give me the best performance for around 1000$? I still haven't tried out my cheapy 200mm, so I don't know how that will perform but from what I was told, I will need something faster. Anyway, any and all info appreciated and some examples would rock as well. Thanks all... |
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04/09/2009 12:32:20 AM · #2 |
You may inquire at the stadium or ticket office just how big of a lens they allow in. If it looks like a professional one (like say a 300mm f/2.8) they may not allow it in. I have had no troubles with my Nikon 70-300mm VR which will give you some nice reach. Depending on the lighting you may need to raise the ISO to get a fast enough shutter speed to minimize motion blur on the players. I usually have the lens in my bag with a different one (often wide angle for stadium shots) on the body when I go in. They never question it. If you want longer reach you may check into the 80-400mm. I don't have seats as close as yours so I am typically walking around the stadium looking for different shots. I have a few examples on this page if you are interested in seeing the range it has. //www.pbase.com/jeffryz/downtown_sd&page=4
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04/09/2009 12:55:38 AM · #3 |
Hi Ashley
If the overall lens length is an issue, you may want to consider using a converter that will give you extra reach when you don't get those front row seats. For example I use a Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-17-EII 1.7x. It will add an extra inch or so to the overall length. However, If you go for a good f2.8 70-200mm lens with a converter you will have the flexibility in increased range (340mm pre crop factor). Moreover, if you want a wider angle or the officials start checking out your equipment you can easily remove the converter to bring the overall lens length within limits.
There are obviously some limitations of using a converter, but in this case the cost, length and flexibility may outweigh the disadvantages.
Chris |
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04/09/2009 01:04:18 AM · #4 |
| I thought you couldn't use the converter on the 70-200mm 2.8? |
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04/09/2009 01:29:49 AM · #5 |
It works OK with my Nikon AF Zoom-Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VR DG IF-ED. Not sure about the other makes/models. The Nikonians website has some good threads on the best combinations/compatibility. From the reports I read the quality of the shots from the 1.7x converter were rated considerably above the 2.0x converter. This combo works great for me. I keep the converter in my pocket and only use it when I need the extra reach. Much cheaper and more convenient than buying a longer lens that I would only use a handful of times a year.
Message edited by author 2009-04-09 01:30:59. |
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04/09/2009 01:58:40 AM · #6 |
Originally posted by JeffryZ:
You may inquire at the stadium or ticket office just how big of a lens they allow in. If it looks like a professional one (like say a 300mm f/2.8) they may not allow it in. I have had no troubles with my Nikon 70-300mm VR which will give you some nice reach. Depending on the lighting you may need to raise the ISO to get a fast enough shutter speed to minimize motion blur on the players. I usually have the lens in my bag with a different one (often wide angle for stadium shots) on the body when I go in. They never question it. If you want longer reach you may check into the 80-400mm. I don't have seats as close as yours so I am typically walking around the stadium looking for different shots. I have a few examples on this page if you are interested in seeing the range it has. //www.pbase.com/jeffryz/downtown_sd&page=4 |
I second JeffryZ's advise with the Nikon 70-300VR, especially from where you'll be sitting. The 80-400mm is also an option but it's $1600. If you have a photo store that rents out lenses, I would try out various lenses and the teleconverter to see if it meets your needs before buying. |
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