I have only had a DSLR for a little over a year now, having the T1i which came with the kit lens and the 55-250mm lens. I was totally dissatisfied with the tele-zoom lens it came with. So much so I had given up on getting any wildlife shots. However, my passion over-rode my resolve and I decided to give a good zoom lens a try. The lighter weight of this lens and the f/4 are the two factors that made me decide to get this lens. I absolutely love it - I surely see the difference between a $200 lens and an L lens. We went out this weekend and got some stunning pictures of hawks and deer (my very first time out with the lens). I look forward to learning this lens and even better results. So I guess it is worth it to have one really fantastic lens.