Still to far, what next

Hello i am a new member, from the UK an not the best when it comes to talking about camers but will endevr to give as much info as i can.

I have a sony a100 ok i no its old now, but iam just starting to use it more than i did, an still not 100% if iam doing it right.

But my question is i want to take photos off ships, the ships look great through a pair off binoculars but when i take the picture its still to far away. The lense 70-300 with a 2x converter added, with manual focus on.

I want to be closer without getting a boat LOL, what do i need or should i try.

many thanks chris

Maybe not what you want to hear, but other than spending a LOT of money, you need to get closer. - Terry

your right it was not what i wanted to hear, ok what would my options be in the way off getting a lens?

thanks chris

Here is a used 600mm f/4 Minolta (works with Sony) that you could add a 1.4x teleconverter (another US$250 used) and still get a good image (840 mm). I told you it was going to be a lot.

http://www.keh.com/camera/Minolta-Ma...990562060?r=FE

Terry

ok, so that would be 840mm? i could just use my X2 teleconverter saves a bit off money there

I would rent whatever you are thinking about before buying. Some of our UK people should be able to tell you where, though Sony/Minolta may be hard to find. You could even rent a more available brand (Cannon or Nikon) along with a similar body to test the concept out.

I would not recommend putting a cheap 2x on an expensive lens.

Also, look at something like the Sigma 150-500mm with TCs to see if it works for you.

http://www.amazon.com/Sigma-150-500m.../dp/B001542X64

Terry

Maybe post some pictures in the help or critique forum, could be as much technique as equipment. Do you use a tripod?

If 600mm is still not enough, you should be considering "digiscoping".

Google it if you're not familiar with the technique.

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Originally Posted by chrisholleyuk

ok, so that would be 840mm? i could just use my X2 teleconverter saves a bit off money there

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You do have an other choice, it is also some money but if you are interested in Astronomy you could purchase or build a telescope (6 inch Newtonian) and the camera mounting kit for your camera (not the department store stuff). Most telescopes are 1 meter or longer in focal length. Or the only other way is to get closer by boat (Boat a hole in the water in which you pour money into).