Question for some of you photog guys. When shooting Wakeboarding in shutter speeds above 1000, do you need the IS or is this just used when shooting in shutter speeds around 200? <BR> <BR>I'm looking at getting the 70-200mm f2.8L and wanted to know if I need the IS or as my wallet says..... the extra $550.

I have never used the IS on my 2.8 when out on the boat. But as you know I use the f4 almost exclusively. You should be able to hand hold the 70-200 down to shutter speeds around 150 on land. In my opinion the IS is not worth the extra $$ for most sports photography. The extra stops however, may be, but probably not.

Most wakeboarding and other sports photography has enough light to enable a quick shutter speed. If you think you may want to shoot low light/twilight/dusk photos you may want it. the IS basically just allows you to shoot a couple of stops off what you might normally need to. I did not spend the extra $$ and I have not had any cause for regrets to this point. I don't think you need it.

I'd say the IS is a waste of money if your shooting wakeboarding. I wish I had the 2.8 though.

Wakeboarding - no <BR> <BR>Everything else - yes <BR> <BR>Although if you wave that camera around enough it's not impossible to get camera shake effects/motion blur even at 1000th. The 70-200 is excellent with the tele-convertors as well and the IS will help a great deal at say 400mm. I had the 70-200 f2.8 non IS and it's a great lens.

Thanks for the info guys. I didn't think I would. <BR> <BR>Rick you do have a good point with the TC.

What RD said. <BR> <BR>I never turn on my IS on the 70-200 when shooting wakeboarding. <BR> <BR>I do use it alot for low light, hand held stuff down to 1/25 with and without a 1.4 tc, and usually without motion blur.