Canon 500mm f/4L IS

Along with the 300mm f/2.8, the Canon 500mm f/4 is one of the best telephoto lenses made. Its reasonable size (considering its reach) and superb Image Stabilization system make this the lens of choice for wildlife and birding photography, and its occasionally used by sports photographers. Still remarkably sharp even with a 2x teleconverter. While some large photographers claim to handhold this lens, at least for a few shots, we strongly recommend a good tripod, preferably with a gimbal head or Wimberley Sidekick.

Roger’s Take: This is the ‘all around’ supertelephoto. Its significantly smaller and easier to handle than the 600mm f/4 or 400mm f/2.8. It can be shot from a sturdy ballhead while the larger lenses really require a gimbal head, and it can be shot handheld for at least a few shots before your arm gives out. Its extremely sharp even with a teleconverter attached. It’s by far the most popular supertelephoto for wildlife and bird shooters, occasionally used as a long lens for outdoor sports, and by paparazzi stalking beaches for photos of celebrity cellulite.