Canon & Sigma Super Telephoto Lens Test Images

I had the rare experience of having simultaneous access to two of Canon's premier telephoto optics -- the 400mm F2.8 L and 400mm F4.0 DO. I can't tell you how eager I was to see how much better they are than the Sigma 120-300mm F2.8 I normally shoot with. In the images below, you can see for yourself. You can look at them in thumbnails, medium, large and original resolution. The shooting conditions (including aperature setting, and use teleconverters) are all noted in the captions. The pictures tell the story, but the headline is that THE CANON L AND DO FIXED FOCAL LENGTH LENSES ROCK in terms of sharpness and contrast, while the Sigma zoom does well for a zoom, and provides shooting flexibility that is often needed in sports. What the pictures don't say is that the CANON 400MM DO IS VERY LIGHT compared to either of the other lenses. You really have to hold it to believe it. Special thanks again to our photo-friends for the loan of some amazing gear.