ddoy2k's reviews

  • Tokina 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6 AT-X 840 AF D

    8 out of 10 points and recommended
    Affordability & Versatility [wide range of focus length]
    No image stability

    Difficult to focus in low light but if you can get a lock on your subject, it delivers pretty sharp images with the use of external flash. This lens work great outdoor on a sunny day. In door, you will need the use of external flash to capture sharp images. Helpful to use a monopod if you do not have a steady hand, otherwise you will end up tossing out over 50% of your shots. Delivers pretty sharp images shooting within 30 yards, beyond that, your images will begin to get softer and softer, not to mention harder to focus on your subjects. A good lens for non-professional photographers. Not an ideal lens for taking sport and action shots due to its slow AF. That said, if you own a decent SLR and know how to work the aperture, shutter speed, and ISO, you should still be able to get good quality photos with this lens even though it's not an 'L' signature lens manufactured by Canon. Most of us hold the notion that if the lens aren't considered 'high end' or 'prime' lens, then you will not get the sharpest of images. Not true. Taking sharp images also depend on the photographer's skill level . . . so don't be so quick to judge the quality of the lens if you are not a professional.

    reviewed June 11th, 2010 (purchased for $500)

  • Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Solid as a Rock
    Bulgy

    I got this lens as a second hand from a friend for 1/2 the price [$1,200] as if it were brand new [$2,400]. I am only an amateur but the photos taken from this lens give everyone the impression that I am a professional. Just having the lens attached to my 7D make me look like a professional. Three weeks ago, I assisted the main photographer at a wedding and the newlywed couple told me after seeing my work that they were going to use 70% of my photos for their wedding album so that gotta tell you something positive about the lens. This lens is a MUST have for portrait and wedding photography. Customers and clients are always expecting more for their money, and this lens will not fail you. Expect to receive comments like, "WOW", "AMAZING", and "GREAT" shots from friends and families when using this lens. Let the lens do the work, and you get the credits.

    reviewed November 9th, 2010 (purchased for $1,200)

  • Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM

    10 out of 10 points and recommended
    Quality
    None

    I was lucky to have purchased one of the best copies for this lens . . . ultra sharp from 16mm through 35mm. This is a must have lens if you do a lot of group shots especially for weddings. Like all of the other "L" series, it is overpriced but you get what you pay for.

    reviewed July 1st, 2011 (purchased for $1,500)