Help me make a decision

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 15:16

So currently I'm using a 450D, and have done for 4 years. I have been using an 18-200 OS Sigma lens for that entire time, which was always 'ok'. I just bought a Canon 50mm 1.4 mainly for portaits which is fantastic.

However,

although the 18-200 has been ok, when I go the the 24 hour Le Mans race every year, it just doesn't have enough reach, so I end up cropping quite often.

So, I have considered a 70-300 IS USM lens, which can be had for about £220 on the bay.

I have also considered upgrading completely to a 7D, but then I wouldn't gain the reach of the 300mm lens.

What would you do? I keep trying to find a 7D for c. £470 on the bay, and if I were to find one I would probably take the plunge.

Should I get an extender? Should I upgrade my body, which would give me higher fps and a higher resolution so crops may be better?

I would really want to spend more than £300 on the lens, unless it's something really special.

Thanks for all your opinions.

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 18:26

No opinions at all guys?

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 19:08

You have to be quite far behind, as the fences are tall, so you have to find higher ground. For a max budget of 500, what would you suggest?

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 20:01

I'm definitely interested in a 60D thanks for pointing that in my direction! Don't want to sell yours do you?

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 20:08

The resolution and fps I find a bit limiting though. Would you say that the 60d wouldn't be a good upgrade? It would probably cost me 200 after selling some bits.

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 21:15

That's really helpful thanks. I do have large hands, so that would be very nice for me. Thanks for the tips.

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 21:53

I understand that quality may not be much of an upgrade. But for the increase in fps, and quality, not to Mention weather proofing I think it might be worth it.

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 22:06

Great shots Vertigo! Do you go to Le Mans regularly?

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 22:41

Are you going again this year?

Cleisthenes · 27 Apr 2014 at 23:19

Thanks a shame!

Cleisthenes · 28 Apr 2014 at 13:27

D.P. said:
I would keep the 450D. None of the newer canon crop bodies really gain you much worth the money (part of this is the older canon sensors were fantastic so there has been less need to improve) so I would invest in good glass and get a new body when something interesting arrives with better sensors and AF (7D mk2 perahaps).

70-300mm will give some extra reach, it is hard to get much longer than that. The canon 100-400mm is often Recomended for motor sports.

So D.P., if I were to hold out and not replace my body, which lens would you recommend if I were to spend a bit more? Perhaps around the £250-£300 range. Thanks.

Cleisthenes · 28 Apr 2014 at 14:29

D.P. said:
Canon EF 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS USM Lens, a tad over £300.
The Tamron 70-300VC is a close second.

Ok. It's food for thought. I keep thinking that perhaps I should just take a plunge and get a 7D, then over the summer when I can get some funds together I'll get myself a new lens.

Cleisthenes · 28 Apr 2014 at 17:58

I just feel like I may regret not getting the superior body. For the sake of £100 peace of mind seems quite cheap