What is a good sports/action lens?

[wveagle7]

I am looking for a good lens for sport photography. I can not afford the Canon 70-200 f/2.8 lenses. The research I have done on the Sigma 70-200 f/2.8 makes me wonder about the auto focus. I'm also not sure if I would be happy with the speed of a f/4 lens. Ishould mention that it will be used for fast-pitch softball and basketball. I know I'm limiting myself, but if I'm going to fork out $600-$800 for a lens, I want to be satisfied. Any advise would be appreciated.

Kevin

[bob_r]

Kevin,

Welcome to the forum!

Which camera are you using and which lenses do you currently own?

I don't see F/4 being a problem for shooting outdoor sports and think the Canon 70-200 f/4 would nicely in your budget. You won't need IS and may be able to find a used one around $500.

I do see a problem shooting basketball with a zoom lens. Most gyms have very poor lighting and require either a fast prime or a camera that can handle high ISO settings without too much noise.
I know a lot of Canon shooters that use an 85 f/1.8 lens for basketball and get excellent results. It too fits in your budget, but would probably be too short for softball unless you had some great seats.
Used ones can sometimes be found for around $300.

Sorry I couldn't recommend a one lens solution for you, but I doubt there is one. Unless you're using a flash, I don't think an f/2.8 lens will handle basketball in most gyms.

Good luck with your search, Kevin.

[wveagle7]

Thanks for the advise, Bob.

I use a Canon 30D, a Canon 28-90 f/4 - f/5.6, a Sigma 70-300 f/4 - 5.6 Macro. I'm not real crazy about the AF on the Sigma when the action gets close. I have taken some pretty good sports photos with it, but it's kind of hit and miss.

I will definitely check out the 85 f/1.8 lens.

Kevin

[bob_r]

Kevin,

I don't shoot basketball, but thought I'd show you a few shots taken with an 85 f/1.8. It's a very nice lens, especially for the price.
These shots were all taken with a 30D and an 85 f/1.8 with ambient light. Hope this helps.

1/200s f/8.0 at 85.0mm iso400


1/125s f/1.8 at 85.0mm iso400


1/50s f/2.2 at 85.0mm iso100

[samlauncher]

Appreciate the info, it’s good to know.

[chesterlrivas]

very nice shots kelvin but you didn't hint on the price