Best Lenses for Capturing Stunning Aviation Shots at LAX

Hey everyone,

I've been spotting at LAX (Los Angeles International Airport - LAX) for a while now and I'm looking to upgrade my lens to capture some more stunning shots. Currently, I'm using a Canon EOS R5 with a 24-105mm lens, but I feel like I need more reach to get those crisp details, especially when planes are taking off and landing.

I've been considering the Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM and the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary for some extra versatility. Does anyone have experience with these lenses for aviation photography? Are there any other lenses you would recommend for shooting at LAX specifically?

Additionally, I'm curious about how these lenses perform in different lighting conditions, especially during the golden hour or in overcast weather. Also, any tips on minimizing heat haze, which can be a problem at LAX, would be greatly appreciated.

Looking forward to hearing your thoughts and experiences!

Thanks!

I've used both the Canon RF 100-500mm and the Sigma 150-600mm for aviation photography, and each has its merits. The Canon RF 100-500mm is excellent for its sharpness and image stabilization, making it ideal for handheld shots. However, the Sigma 150-600mm offers a bit more reach, which can be beneficial at LAX where aircraft can be quite distant.

In terms of lighting, both lenses perform well, but the Canon has a slight edge in low light due to its build quality and lens coatings. For minimizing heat haze, try shooting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when the temperature difference between the ground and air is less. Also, keeping the sun behind you can help in reducing glare and haze in your shots.

Have you considered a tripod or monopod? They can be invaluable for stability with longer lenses.

I've used the Canon RF 100-500mm at LAX, and it's a solid choice for aviation photography. Its image stabilization is particularly helpful during handheld shots, especially in low light conditions like the golden hour. The lens's light weight compared to some other telephotos is a plus, especially when shooting for extended periods. Heat haze is definitely a challenge at LAX due to the long runway distances and warmer temperatures. To minimize it, try shooting during cooler parts of the day or find angles that minimize the distance between the lens and the aircraft. Additionally, the Sigma 150-600mm offers great versatility with its extra reach, which can be beneficial for distant shots. Both lenses perform well in varying light, but the Canon's build quality and sharpness give it an edge.

The Canon RF 100-500mm is definitely a great choice for its versatility and image quality. It's particularly useful at LAX given the wide variety of aircraft and distances involved. Another lens you might consider is the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS if you're open to switching systems, as it's renowned for its reach and sharpness. Regarding lighting conditions, both lenses perform well during golden hour, but the Canon's stabilization might give it an edge in low light. For heat haze, try shooting early in the morning when it's cooler or using a higher vantage point to minimize ground distortion. Also, using a higher shutter speed can help capture clear details despite haze.

I've used the Sigma 150-600mm at LAX and found it quite capable, especially for capturing aircraft on the south side runways. It offers great reach, which is handy for detailed shots of aircraft on approach. However, the Canon RF 100-500mm has an edge with its superior autofocus and lighter build, making it easier to handle during extended shoots. Both lenses perform well under various lighting conditions, but you might notice the Sigma struggles a bit more in low light. For minimizing heat haze, try shooting early in the morning or later in the afternoon when temperatures are cooler, and the atmosphere is more stable. Have you considered renting both lenses to see which suits your style better?