Best Lenses for Spotting at LAX: 100-400mm vs. 150-600mm?

Hey fellow aviation photographers! I'm planning a trip to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) soon and I've been debating which lens would be best for spotting there. I'm currently using a Canon EOS R5 and am torn between the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 and the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary.

I know that LAX has some great spotting locations like the In-N-Out Burger on Sepulveda and the Imperial Hill. I'm curious about which lens might offer more versatility, especially since I want to capture both takeoffs and landings from a variety of angles.

Has anyone used either of these lenses at LAX or similar airports? How do they perform in different lighting conditions, especially during the golden hour? I'd love to hear your experiences and any tips on settings for getting the sharpest shots. Thanks in advance for your advice!

I've had the chance to use both lenses at LAX, and each has its strengths. The Canon RF 100-400mm is lighter and more compact, making it easier to handle and carry around, especially when moving between spots like Imperial Hill and the In-N-Out. It's great for takeoffs and landings when you're relatively close to the action.

However, the Sigma 150-600mm offers longer reach, which is beneficial for capturing aircraft on long finals or departures from further away. It can also help isolate aircraft against the backdrop of the city or hills. In terms of lighting, both perform well during the golden hour, but the Sigma's wider aperture at the long end can be advantageous in low-light conditions. If versatility is key, consider how much you'll be moving and whether the extra reach is worth the added weight of the Sigma.

I've used the Sigma 150-600mm at LAX and found the extra reach very handy, especially when spotting from Imperial Hill where you might want that extra zoom for distant runway shots. However, it is heavier, so if you're moving around a lot, it might be a drawback. The Canon RF 100-400mm, on the other hand, is more portable and should cover most needs at closer spots like the In-N-Out Burger. Both lenses perform well during golden hour, but if sharpness is your main concern, try keeping your aperture a stop down from wide open. Also, consider the lighting conditions-LAX can get hazy, which might affect long-range shots. What time of day are you planning to shoot? That might influence your choice too.