10D zoo pics w/ original resolution - comments pls

[nz1]

Hi. This was my 1st outing with the newly purchased 10D and Sigma 100-300 f4 EX HSM 4 weeks ago. I intentionally shot almost everything wide open to see how they perform in terms of focusing & sharpness.
The weather was partly sunny but some overcast. They are all hand held, using center focus point, with one shot AF (otherwise stated in caption) Camera settings are all default except exposure -1/3 & color saturation +1. For most pics, added USM 300/0.3/0 and saved with quality 9. More details are in caption of each pic.
http://www.pbase.com/nz1/telephoto
I would also be very interested in knowing how do you like the lens performance (based on the sharpest pics;-)
Thanks.
Nelson

[irish]

Hello
I am thinking of getting the 100-300 MM sigma f4 also. Your pics are GREAT

[nz1]

Thank you, Irish.
If you are near a camera gear shop I suggest you try it first. Besides it is big and a little heavy - 3 1/4 lbs, everyting else is just great. Especially focusing speed, with outdoor shooting it locks focus instantly. My friend compare it with his 70-200 f2.8 EX HSM on both cameras and he was like "wow, sweet..." This one feels much faster.
Regards.

[BobJarman]

Hi NZ1,

I think the sharpness and the colour are wonderful.

You need to add a fill flash and maybe even a better beamer. I have found in my situation that the distances you have to shoot from and the fact that the animals tend to congregate in shady areas, I have gotten a lotbetter results whn I always use a flash. Even if your past the flashes ranges, it will put a catch light in the eyes.


http://www.rkjarman.com/naturepage/meerkat_std.htm

Here is an example where I was on the edge of the flash range, but it added a nice catchlight and still borught out some detail in the shadows.

All that said, I really think your shots are great!

Did'nt have a chance to look at the original pictures posted, but like to reply to the last post. Meerkats are my favorites, great shot! But: I definitely would not use a flash in the face of animals. It hurts, it can in fact be harmful. The smart ones figure it out and run when a photographer comes near - I have seen that with pets exposed to flash. I would'nt use a flash with children either, only indirect bounced off light. In most zoos flash is not permited - for good reason.
Tiger

[nz1]

Hi Bob, thank you for your compliment. And of course your suggestion of a better beamer is also appreciated.
I'd posted some more photos of my NY Aquarium trip (with my family) The addtional lens I used was a Sigma 24-70 f2.8 EX. All pics have been post processed to a certain degree and most of in-door ones downsized due to high ISO fuzziness or shake.
http://www.pbase.com/nz1/aquarium&page=all
I am looking forward to comments on how I could do better.
Thanks.