Lens Choice for HS Basketball?

[William Guerro]

I am looking to purchase a new lens for the upcoming HS Basketball season. I currently have a Canon 70-200 f/2.8IS, I would like something better for available light shooting. I am looking at the Canon 135mm f/2.0"L" or the Canon EF 85mm f/1.8. Any comments or othe suggestions would be great.

[Ross Throndson]

Hi William.....what Camera are you using?

[michaelnotar]

if you can get on the floor, use a 28-70/24-70 both 2.8, or 16-35/2.8. i only shoot when the action is close.

[Bob Crowe]

Of the 135 vs 85 1.8, I like the 85. That's the lens I use for 80% of my basketball shots. The Gyms I shoot in don't have enough light for an F2.8 lens without strobes. That 85 is a great lens for basketball and volleyball.

Bob

[ChrisPerry]

Back in college (20+ years ago) I shot the BB games for the newspaper and use a 50 1.8 - i was on the sidelines so distance was not an issue, but there was a rule of no strobes. Framing was not an issue as things got cropped for the paper anyway.
That would be a lot like a 28 1.8 or the 35L on a crop body.

It would be sooo much easier today too - I had no AF, no drive, no auto exposure, and shot ISO, ASA400 film and pushed it to 800. Ah, the good old days weren't so good afterall

[William Guerro]

I forgot to add what cameras I am using. I use a Canon Mark IIn as my main unit and my secondary is a Canon 5D.

[jimbloomfield]

50 or 85. If the light is OK 24-70.The 135 will not get a lot of shots .