Help A Rookie?

Question

I’m not a pro but I guess consider a photo enthusiast. I have a Canon Rebel XT, I just purchased a Canon 70-200mm L f/2.8

I have a 7 month old daughter that is my main model.

I was under the impression that this is the best lens for portraits and sport shots, and f/2.8 makes it so fast that it really doesn’t need very much light. However, I’ve experience the 70-200mm f/2.8 that it needs more light than my Sigma 12-24mm f/4.5-5.6.

Settings on dial is usually “P” could that be it? Does it work better on different settings?

Thanks,

Marvin

Answer 1

Babies move a lot! I guess you've already figured that out, though. Turn up the lights, and don't zoom in so much. Practice squeezing the shutter instead of snapping it. When the light is low, it helps to brace yourself against a wall or something and take a breath, then squeeze the shutter. That will at least reduce your movements, and every bit helps. Or you could use a tripod. In a pinch, do nap time photos. Nothing sweeter than a sleeping baby!

Answer 2

If you are using the lens at 2.8, be aware that you will have a small depth of field. So even if she is still, you may have the eyes (or maybe just one eye) in focus and the rest of her will be out of focus.
This is probably what is happening, a setting of 5.6 will have much more of the area acceptably sharp but would need more light for an acceptable exposure.
Also, at 200mm, unless you have good technique in handholding, you will need a shutter speed of about 1/250 to reduce blur from camera shake.
You have a fabulous lens, just keep practicing!

Answer 3

try messing with the exposure settings. or increase the f stop. if too complicated stick with plain 'ol auto mode.