A Tale of Two ExtendersWhile some nature photographers swear by them, others swear at them. What is the object of their attention? 2X Extenders. Most photographers find that camera manufacturer's 1.4X Extenders produce quite decent quality, especially when the lens is stopped down a bit. But with 2X Extenders there is less unanimity.

In my experience 2X Extenders range from awful to just "OK". Few photographers that I know would say that they're everwonderful. But, there are shooting situations where the need to get tighter outweighs the need for optimum image quality, so most photographers have one in their kit.

The Lure of The NewIn 2001 Canon updated both their EF 1.4X and 2X Extenders. Both now have the designationIIafter their model numbers. In both cases Canon added rubber weather sealing on the mount, designed to mate with the seals on their then new line ofImage Stabilizedsuper-telephoto lenses. They claim to have added new anti-reflection coating to both ...