skybolt2003 wrote:
Canon has some dubious glass under the "L" label. You are much better off going with lenses that have a smaller focal length range.
Dunno about the specifics, my interest is pictures that can be used for print in magazines and books. Usually a max of A4 or occasionally a full spread; A3, (8.5" x 11" or double). Most lenses for sale today are good enough to do the job, 90% of the problems I have with dud photos submitted are to do with the photographer.
Obviously the best lens you can get is what to aim for, but also be realistic as what you are going to do with it as well. Wall size posters are unlikely for most users, but sadly much camera discussion among aviation enthusiasts is unseemly drainpipe competition. Mostly pointless.
I've got a good cover photo for a magazine off a cigarette packet size digibox of 3.3 megapixels.
Personally I mainly use that for opportunistic shots, and a Fuji S5600 sub DSLR. With a max lens length of 300mm it's a bit short for proper airshow work, and far below a proper DSLR for quality in all directions, but it's certainly adequate, cheap and light.
I'm no competition personally, but I do select some of the best shots from some of the best aviation photographers out there for print. The difference between them and the amateur is brain and having an eye, as you can get adequate pro-level equipment for not unreasonable cost.
Just my 2d.