I have been using these lens for the last 6 years and very handy for telephoto pictures. Good and quality images and Image Stabilizer as promised ! But, since it is not a single glass piece lens, getting a instant shots for bird life can be tricky at times! you can play with these lens for different zoom in while focusing kind of things when you go to sports events, gives a well perspective of the player! Advantages that I can list for this lens is, ability to take a long range shots without a shake. the Image Stabilizer (IS) kicks in very speed and effective and avoids the blurriness when you are shooting objects/birds/animals in the telephoto range. I also recommend, use a good stable mono pod or tripod while using this. Cons are: since it is not a single element lens, it takes a while to adjust for the focusing and sometime you might an instant action, if you are shooting live events likes birds flying etc.

polymerique

Corvallis, OR

I've owned the 55-250, the 75-300, the 70-300, the 70-200mm f/4L USM, and the 70-200mm f/2.8L USM... and outside of the 55-250mm, I haven't love any of them. I think I love the 55-250 because it was a great value. I tend to shoot with primes for several events... so that may give you an idea of what type of photographer I am. Having said that, I think the 70-300 was good... not amazing. My breath taking shots have been with my 25-105, 50mm and 100mm L. For the money, it is a solid lens, but I prefer the 55-250 for the money. I wish I had more to say that was complementary... it's good, but it just doesn't blow me away.

jdramirez

Mechanicsburg, PA