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mag1
08-11-2009, 10:24 AM
I'm taking longer distance shots at some deer. Typically 300-500yards out. I have a Cannon Rebel, with the sigma 70-300 DG macro lens. Is there any way to increase the zoom with a screw on type end cap, or do I have to get a new lens? These shots are mainly for scouting for my main hobby of bow hunting. Thanks for any input available.
timmciglobal
08-11-2009, 12:18 PM
You'd probably get better results zooming in on the image.

Honestly, no, not without buying a much longer lens which costs a lot more $$$.

Tim
Spookonthe8ball
08-11-2009, 04:28 PM
Here is something to go by. First shot of these Pronghorn are at 150mm where they are crossing the road, just guessing 120 yards or so. Second shot is at 500mm approximately 20 seconds later, so they are maybe 150 yards. Using Sigma 150-500 with IS handheld. Xti used for camera.
To shoot deer farther than that and get any detail at all will require more than 500mm and probably a tripod shot. 1.4 teleconverter might work, but it would have to be broad daylight.
Spook
Rhys
08-11-2009, 04:31 PM
The only way to get that kind of reach would be to use a telescope. Even telescopes top out at about 2,000mm.
TheObiJuan
08-11-2009, 05:26 PM
I had that lens and used it with a 1.4x teleconverter to get some extra reach. The image will soften, but when the reach is needed, oh well.
With the 1.6 field of view of the XTI you are getting some added reach, when compared to a 5DmkII.
raven15
08-13-2009, 01:28 PM
Surely a bow hunter can get closer than 500 yards? Even something that goes to 500mm won't cover that distance.
Rhys
08-13-2009, 02:52 PM
Why not fell the deer with a well aimed arrow then take photos of it :p
Elisha82
08-13-2009, 02:55 PM
Why not fell the deer with a well aimed arrow then take photos of it :p

that's a pretty good idea. serves a double purpose as well since you will have meat to throw on the fire after you are done shooting it!
Rhys
08-13-2009, 02:57 PM
that's a pretty good idea. serves a double purpose as well since you will have meat to throw on the fire after you are done shooting it!

Exactly... Could invite a few guys from dcresource to help you eat it too :D
Elisha82
08-13-2009, 02:59 PM
I love me some venison!
I have at least 6 recipes for it...
raven15
08-13-2009, 03:02 PM
Why not fell the deer with a well aimed arrow then take photos of it :p

Best idea yet!
Razr
08-15-2009, 02:17 PM
I'm taking longer distance shots at some deer. Typically 300-500yards out. I have a Cannon Rebel, with the sigma 70-300 DG macro lens. Is there any way to increase the zoom with a screw on type end cap, or do I have to get a new lens? These shots are mainly for scouting for my main hobby of bow hunting. Thanks for any input available.


You might try adapting a Vivitar legacy 120-600mm f/5.6 lens to your camera. . With my Olympus e-bodies, I get 2X (240-1200mm) the power. So with a 1.5 body, you'll get out to 900mm @ f/8.

My copy is off being CLAed for the winter Elk season.

WARNING: this could damage your SLR lenses:
screw on an Olympus T-CON 1.7 front end teleconverter. It gives your 70-300 lens a plus 540mm range with no loss of light (no, Olympus nor Nikon 1.7front end teleconverters do not add f/stops).
James DeRuvo DHQ
08-19-2009, 09:01 PM
Well you could go with a 2x teleconverter, but make sure you bring along a monopod to guard against camera shake.