Re: [Leica] R8 vs. EOS-1v questions

[Rick Floyd <rick-floyd@mediaone.net>]

Mitch:

For what it is worth, I have had 1v's for about a year now.  Prior to that I
briefly owned an R8.  The decision for me was easy.  I wanted another system
that complimented my M6 - not as a similar camera, but rather an antithesis
of the M6.  

The first decision was whether I wanted/needed auto-focus.  Since my primary
use for the SLR was anything the M6 didn't do well, auto-focus came to the
top of the list as a requirement.  Secondly, I wanted the fastest film
advance I could get.  Both of these things led me to the 1v and I love it
for what I use for - sports - primarily soccer.

I also decided that flash was important to me, since I almost never use
flash on my M6.  The ETTL flash is amazing and when combined with a couple
(or more) of the 550EX flashes, I have a portable studio that is completely
automatic AND wireless.

As far as lenses are concerned, I found most of the L series Canon lenses to
be very capable glass.  As far as IS is concerned, it is amazing technology.
The two consumer lenses that Canon makes with IS technology are the 28-135
and 75-300.  My son owns the 75-300.  The long end is weak, but otherwise a
good lens.

The L series lenses with IS are the 300 f4, 300 f2.8 (amazing lens), the 400
f2.8, 400 f4 DO, 600 f4, 100-400 zoom and the brand new 70-200 f2.8.  I have
the 300 f4 on order and am looking forward to getting the 70-200.  The 300,
400 and 600 are exceptional lenses as are their prices - very Leica-like.

So, if you are looking for one of the fastest and most flexible slr cameras
on the market, then a 1v would be my top recommendation.  If you want one
just like the 1v but digital, look at the new 1D.

Now having said that, when I see you say your shooting style is the lighter
the better, then I wouldn't recommend the 1v OR the R8!!!  If you like the
75-300IS, look closely at the new Canon EOS 7(e).  It is very light, quiet
(for an SLR) and has almost all of the capabilities of the 1v and some the
1v doesn't - such as eye control focus point selection.

I hope this helps.  Let me know if you have any further questions.

Rick Floyd

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