Autumn's final curtain: The owl and I

Deanne, as a staunch adherent to Canon you might want to take a look at Sigma (if you already haven't), who are making a killing right now. While Canon L series lenses are astounding people with their quality, they are also plumbing the depths of their pockets. Sigma are offering some lenses that are pushing the Canon ones all the way and are available at much more reasonable price, which enhances their overall market image even further. This photo was taken with my Sigma 12-24mm, a decent one. Good sharpness within the 12-16mm range, while a tad softer in the narrower focal lengths. It is only F/4.5, mind you, but for what I normally pursue it does a job. They have recently released the Mark II, which should be better, but you might want to quickly check this. My Sigma 50mm F1/4 prime lens is the best I have had the priviledge of using. It delivers a stelar quality, it is easy to use, no bells and whistles, just plug, aim and shoot. For the type of scenery you exploit, as I see, with the subject matter at the infinity mark (> 30 yards), like canyons and lighthouses, the hyperfocal length is less of an issue and everything is pretty much in focus. Glad you like the photo, thanks a lot!