Minimum focus distance for Canon 100-400mm lens

[Craig Thayer]

What are the guidelines for deciding which minimum focus distance (1.8 m vs 6.5 m) for the Canon 100-400mm IS lens?

Obviously I assume that if the bird is less than 6.5 m away one should use 1.8m and conversely if the bird is more than 6.5 m away use that setting. However are there exceptions to these "rules'' ? I believe the lens focuses more quickly(i.e hunts less) at the 6.5 m setting so that might be a factor.

THANKS


Craig Thayer

[tjsimonsen]

I only use the focus limiter for BIFs - when I remember it!

Thomas

[GYRob]

you have it sorted from your post above Craig,
If your on 6.5 and a bird come closer just go to 1.8 .
I mostly set my lenses to the 6.5 range as the focus is far quicker but it can catch you out sometimes .
Rob.

[Words]

As others have said, generally if I'm after birds I set at 6.5 to improve speed of focusing. It only takes a fraction of a second to flip the switch to 1.8 if something comes close. And yes, I do get caught out sometimes as well.