Using the 100-400mm handheld

[MassJester]

Picked up the 100-400mm 4.5-5.6 L IS (it's a heavy little fellow). I was thinking it might be a nice option for some of the stage shows, however I'm definitely not interested in dragging a tripod into those. Anyone have any experience using this lense w/o a tripod at the longer focal length?

 

[wdwensel]

I don't have a lense of that size yet, but I learned a little trick for taking my tripod around on my last trip. I took the shoulder strap off of my carryon bag and attached it to my tripod. I then just slung the tripod over my shoulder and carried it across my back. It kept my hands free and never got in anyones way.

 

[Master Mason]

That is what monopods are for

 

[stitch626_in_time]

With plenty of light, I have no problem getting clear pictures handheld with this lens at 400mm. However for all the indoor stage shows I am not sure you will have enough light.

 

[Groucho]

I don't have a lense of that size yet, but I learned a little trick for taking my tripod around on my last trip. I took the shoulder strap off of my carryon bag and attached it to my tripod. I then just slung the tripod over my shoulder and carried it across my back. It kept my hands free and never got in anyones way.

Same here - I use my camera bag's original strap (which I replaced with an Op/Tech SOS strap) and have one end around the center column (below where the legs attach) and the other on one of the legs. I've thought about a "real" tripod strap (like Op/Tech's) but I just can't justify it, I don't think that it'd work better than what I jury-rigged.

I would say that if you want to take photos at a show with such a lens, a monopod is probably a good bet. Or even a tripod with just one leg extended.

 

[Master Mason]

I bought one of the wide disney camera straps that I use as my tripod strap. It isn't perfect, but it works just fine for my needs.