Finally upgraded to the Canon R7 after shooting with a dusty old Rebel for years and I am absolutely loving the crop factor and autofocus speed. Seriously, the speed is a game changer for the stuff I like to shoot. I live out near a decent sized marshland in Florida so there is constant bird and alligator activity but my current glass is just not cutting it anymore. Im finding myself really limited by reach and sharpness when I try to crop in too much.
So I have been agonizing over a few options for the last couple of weeks. Budget is tricky because I am trying to stay under 2k total, which is tight. Im looking at the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 because its so lightweight and I could actually take it hiking without my back killing me, but then I worry about the f/8 aperture since I do a lot of morning shoots when the light is still kinda low. Then there is the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary with an adapter. My logic was that extra 200mm of reach is vital for skittish birds, but adding the adapter makes the whole rig feel front-heavy and awkward. I also looked at a used EF 100-400mm L II, which is legendary glass, but finding one in good shape within my budget is proving to be a nightmare and I have a trip to the Everglades planned for next month so I dont have forever to hunt for a deal.
Im torn. The 100-400 RF is the obvious choice for portability but is it gonna leave me frustrated with the light gathering? Is the Sigma going to be too much of a pain to lug around on a long morning walk? If I go with the used L lens, is it worth the stress of not having a warranty? Maybe Im overthinking the aperture thing and should just embrace the ISO noise, I dont know... What would you guys pick if you were in my shoes?
Just saw this thread and thought I would chime in. I definitely feel your pain with the budget, I am always super careful with my gear too. If you want something that just works and wont break the bank, here is my two cents:
- The Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM is honestly such a relief to carry. The reach on the R7 is already huge so the 400mm end really pulls in those birds.
- I know the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary offers more reach, but having that adapter hanging off the front always makes me nervous about weather sealing and balance. I personally went with the RF glass because the native mount gives me peace of mind with reliability. Sure, f/8 is slow, but modern sensors are pretty forgiving these days. You will be really happy with the weight savings in that Florida humidity!
Honestly, grab the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM. The R7 handles high ISO noise way better than your old Rebel, so that f/8 aperture isnt the dealbreaker you think it is. The weight savings are massive for long hikes in Florida heat. You honestly wont miss the heavy Sigma once you start shooting handheld and catching shots you would have missed while messing with that bulky adapter.
Can vouch for this
