8 Things we HATE Sony 200-600mm lens

[@Jonathantuba]

I think most of the things will make the lens more expensive, and some just not practical. The lens foot could be something to do with licensing - and also if you hand hold, the current foot is more comfortable to hold. For colour, I thought I heard the light colour is so it reflects heat, or that could cause problems if you’re using for extended period in the hot Sun. If it worries you, camouflage covers are available although I often think if the lens is pointing at wildlife they’re only gonna see the front element anyway, so what colour the body is has no affect on the subject seeing and behaviour. I think we would all like lighter and faster aperture, but they are mutually exclusive. On the whole I think the 200 - 600 is a good lens, although I do sometimes fancy the 600 prime, but not its price and also I think a Zoom is more useful

[@CattailChronicles]

Yes, all very practical comments. I know I am dreaming but someday these might seem like simple requests right? We also drool over the 600 lens but put a hard stop on that price!

[@JillCurtis-n2x]

A circular polarizing filter removes about 1.5 stops of light and this lens is already not bright enough so that would result in really grainy photos unless you're in direct (harsh and undesirable looking) sunlight. I think the hood works well. I think the extra weight is justified since it is not a pumper-zoom (I much prefer the IF design, pumper zooms are just not idea in harsh environments). I think the lens is an excellent compromise for the price etc. Thanks for the video, I do agree on many points :)

[@CattailChronicles]

Yeah it's a tongue and cheek list. That said we do have mostly full sun days here in Colorado so the filter can work for the harsher light. I like to dream about lens improvements, no matter how physically impossible :)

[@PeteLovesPixels]

This lens is perfect for what you get in terms of build and image quality vs the price in today's market. Good solid value. The problem Sony has is that there is nothing in between the 200-600 and the 600f4 in price point. Personally I'd like to see a Sony prime built with PF tech like Nikon. It could make a really nice 500 or 600 in an f5.6 aperture which Ithink is resonable. The pricing would likely land right between the 200-600 and the exotic primes. I'm very impressed with the phase fresnel tech.

[@CattailChronicles]

Oh I love this idea!

[@lightonthelandscape]

@@CattailChronicles I'm looking at this lens and the Sigma 500mm f/5.6 dg dn os (sports) --- which is close to what you have described above. Both have advantages and disadvantages. From my (extensive) research, I think the Sigma has the edge. The 3D quality and sharpness compared to the Sony is quite compelling. Is it worth the extra cost? Factoring in size and weight and better stabilization... maybe.

[@mcauleyrj]

I couldn’t get the lens to balance on the Sirui PH-10 gimbal using the Sony foot. I replaced it with the Wimberley foot and all is well.

[@CattailChronicles]

Oh good tip, thanks!

[@KurtisPape]

For me this lens is near perfect, any wider apature it will become much heavier and at f6.3 the depth of field can be too shallow and I can't get 2 birds both in focus that are right next to each other for e.g. this lens for sure needs more functions, a focus return function would be amazing that you can set a focus point and return to it with a click of a button. Also if it was G-Master quality glass would be nice, as is the picture quality is amazing, but side by side to the canon 100-500mm the Sony had slightly softer image quality wide open and the canon was just more consistent.

[@CattailChronicles]

Focus return is intriguing.

[@varmaschem6953]

I got a 200-600mm f5.6~6.3 zoom on a Sony A7sIII and ever since I carried I took it off the tripod and have been hand carrying it, I notice an ever so so slight play between the lens and the camera body. Wondering if you could corroborate. So when the lens is attached it snaps into place but then if I wiggle the mammoth 200-600 lens there is slight movement-ish (if that is a word) in the flange between the body and lens - very very slight. Pictures seem fine! I put the 24mm f1.4 Gmaster lens and can feel it with that as well, but much less so than with the 200-600 where it is more pronounced. Again, not sure it is a problem but never experienced this with any other camera brand - my first Sony body. Feels like the lens moves a tiny tiny bit where the white dot is on the lens. Again, I went back and put on the 24mm after I noticed it on the 200-600 and it was there at the shorter focal length. Something I had never noticed before!

[@CattailChronicles]

We've had that issue too as have several others. Some say it's normal. I don't like the idea of the contacts constantly being rubbed. Might want to check with Sony and your warranty.

[@bcrphoto7]

That's a nice dream you are having, faster aperture, smaller and lighter, cheaper. With all the changes you want that lens would be $10,000 at least

[@CattailChronicles]

It is a nice dream right? Sigh.

[@sh8736]

It’s very good value for the price. If you want lighter and extra stop get the 100-400 GM. Have no trouble with the lens hood. Agree about the foot bought a 3rd party one which is longer and is archa Swiss. I would like setting maybe set in the body that when your shutter goes over say 2500 it auto turns off the image stabilisation and then turns it back on when it drops down. I would like 300 2.8 the weight of the Nikon of lenses at no more than 3000£/euro/dollars 😀

[@CattailChronicles]

Yes! This is the kind of dreaming I am talking about :) And yes Steve has taken a serious look at the 100-400. Sigh, so many options but t limited budgets.

[@carlossantini]

Any videos reviewing bags for the 200-600?

[@CattailChronicles]

Oh we haven't done a video on that, great idea, thanks!

[@carlossantini]

@@CattailChronicles please include small backpacks! 👍🏼

[@howardjack1103]

for light I find the ISO range on my A7iv quite superb - even up to 6400 and especially then processing through Topaz Photo AI> I think the bigger the lens the more necessary a white colour. Think of all the different coefficients of expansion that could throw out the fine tolerances and calibrations. Black might be Ok in less sunny and cooler climes, but places like Australia where temperatures up to and over 40C are getting more common?? So saying I have put a neoprene camo coat on mine - more to protect the travels and bush work it can get.

[@CattailChronicles]

Yeah great points! Thanks for sharing!

[@jamesseward9263]

Is there a speed booster available for Sony E mount ?

[@CattailChronicles]

I did a quick search and although it looks like Metabones has some options but I've never tried them.

[@jamesseward9263]

@@CattailChronicles the only Speed booster I seen from Metabones is a Sony Alpha mount to E mount. Not sure what an Alpha mount is or if it’s the same as the E mount?

[@festerbestertester1658]

The lens hood? I was thrilled with this hood after switching from my Nikon 200-500mm. You would think that if you pay $1500 for a lens, they could include more than a flimsy plastic hood that I have to attach to the lens with tape.

[@CattailChronicles]

A taped on hood is a bummer.

[@hozo101]

I sold mine, focus not consistent with my A7RM4A. Got the 100-400GM

[@CattailChronicles]

Oh how do you like that lens? I've heard great things.

[@hozo101]

@@CattailChronicles its AWESOME! Very sharp

[@CattailChronicles]

Ah darn! Now I want it! 😊

[@ADNZ5442]

Maybe try the Z9 with the 800mm or the PF 500mm with adapter.

[@CattailChronicles]

Sounds like a great combo.

[@Gogogordy1]

Well the halfway point between shooting hand-held versus on a tripod = monopod. I’m just saying.

[@CattailChronicles]

I really should give monopods a try. I have an extra one I use for video. If I had a quick release plate it might...thanks for the idea !

[@dennistsiorbas5962]

Very real, and the best review of this lens I've seen.

[@CattailChronicles]

Thanks!

[@roadrunnerruud61]

Very interesting and funny video, thank you for that. You are a great team haha. I am quite happy with my Sony 200-600. Replaced the foot for an arca swiss plate and bought a camouflage cover. However in the end I fully agree with you; Sony should offer a 200-600 4.0 lens for a thousand dollars 🙂.

[@CattailChronicles]

Yes! Sounds like a great set up!

[@heathermtaylor7683]

Ooh that sounds just like me - I always want prime quality for half the price - well, if you don't ask, you certainly won't get!! Go Monique, dream big there's NO restrictions!!

[@CattailChronicles]

That's right! I will likely watch this video in 5 years and realize I didn't dream big enough!

[@AnthonyWW68]

Lens hood?

[@ARlELATOM]

Big lenses are usually white reflect heat, so I believe

[@CattailChronicles]

Hmm good point.

[@pancakesupremacy77]

Came for the lens stayed for the energy! ✌🏼😂

[@CattailChronicles]

Hehe, thanks!

[@ianhogg5234]

I really enjoy your down to earth reviews and commentary. I did take the plunge and pony up for this lens. As Sony lenses go, it is relatively cheap, and bang for buck, it is well worth it. In good light, it is excellent, so of all the things you wished for, improved the aperture would be number 1 for me. I'm hoping I build up the shoulder strength after using it for a few months that shooting about my head does not feel like a "World's Strongest Man" competition.

[@CattailChronicles]

It really is reasonably priced but we can dream right? Yes, get those should reps in for sure!

[@michealpociecha8351]

Well most of your ideas would actually require it to cost more but I sure am with you on color options (camouflage) and the foot. I have purchased the camouflage cover for mine because it really does make a difference to the wildlife. Especially birds. So since so many of these lenses are sold to wildlife photographers how about giving us color options. It only makes sense to make the foot fit the tripod shoe and it wouldn’t be much at all to manufacture it with the two groves required to do the job. As far as weight and length I don’t think you’re going to find a quality one lighter. Thanks for your video. Hope you got some great eagle shots.

[@CattailChronicles]

Agreed Michael. I know some of my requests are likely physically impossible but a girl can dream :)

[@mikemade_]

I'm about to pick one of these lenses up so I appreciate the list! I do have to laugh a little at the aperture complaints lol while I do agree with you, I can't help but think how much more we'd have to pay for even a half stop faster lens with this combo. Considering the 600mm f/4.0 is only 1 1/3 stops faster at 600mm and costs $13,000 a whopping $11k more than the 200-600.

[@CattailChronicles]

A photographer can dream right? Lol. Have fun with your new lens!

[@mikemade_]

@@CattailChronicles I mean it would be pretty awesome if they’d just make an f/2.8 200-600mm GM OSS II with slide in ND’s oh and not need a crane to lift it lol

[@chadaztig07]

I like the rant! Ahaha Im planning to buy this beast. And i feel like im about to rant the same thing. Ahahahaha

[@CattailChronicles]

LOL. Let us know how you liked (and disliked) it :)

[@gayleneufeld3303]

More glass and less weight - I agree!

[@CattailChronicles]

We aren't asking much right? 😉

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Some users blame the lens for being poorly weather-sealed!

[@CattailChronicles]

Could have added that to the list 😉

[@themoodyphotographer59]

The only thing I can agree with is the tripod foot. It's lighter than my Nikon 200-500mm, I never use a filter for wildlife, the hood lining up with dots is the same as pretty much any lens I've ever had and for what the lens can do and being sharper than the Sigma 150-600 C, the Tamron 150-600mm and mt Nikon 200-500mm and faster focus, the price seems fare to me.

[@CattailChronicles]

Yeah but I am dreaming here right! :)

[@longrider9551]

check out a company called "alphaguard" they make 3m adhesive skins in camo and other colors. I have them on all my sony lenses they work great, protect the lens and remove easily for resale. nice job with video 😎

[@CattailChronicles]

Oooh, thanks! I will check them out!

[@GiuseppeGessa]

In a ideal world I'll be super happy having all Sony stuff for free!!! 🤣

[@CattailChronicles]

That's the spirit!

[@TheNonsenseAdventures]

So you want it faster, but lighter, more expensive build quality but want it for cheaper? Ok, I don't think mk2 will meet that. I'd personally like the IS to switch off automatically after 1/2000th (or set it to auto) the arca swiss foot, i'd agree with that. I've no issue with lens hood. I believe the reason for the white lenses is that when sports photography started to require huge lenses, they made them white so they were visible around the pitch. So that people did hit into them. for the price of a sleeve, its not much compared to sony having to manufacture them in multiple colours.

[@CattailChronicles]

Never considered an IS limiter. We shall add it to the impossible-we-are-dreaming-here list. Thanks!

[@jamesseward9263]

How about a 200-600mm F 4-5.6 G-Master with better Image Stabilization ?? Lol

[@CattailChronicles]

You've got the hang of it! Yes!

[@andreas.2]

I would definitely build a 50-600 f/5 GM if i was Sony ;)

[@CattailChronicles]

That's the spirit!

[@chrislawlor68]

I think Sigma has a 60-600 don't know about the aperture

[@tr3v87]

I genuinely wonder what this would cost if it was f4.5-5.6??? If it doubled the price it would still sell loads.

[@CattailChronicles]

You're right! The 600 f4 is $13,000. So this lens at $4,000 is believable.

[@erikpeterffy7552]

On my A7R4, this lens has an absolutely garbage autofocus. I've rented two copies and got a 5-10% hit rate on moving subjects, the rest is a complete mess. However, when shooting a stationary subject with manual focus, the sharpness of the lens is almost on par with my 70-200GM. I sometimes get the feeling that Sony has been sending out higher quality lenses to youtubers and well-known photographers to boost sales, and the ones that hit the stores are crap. Here in Europe, at least, that seems to be the case. I would be very happy if there was something between this and the 13k 600GM. Sigma, can you hear us? We would really appreciate a Sigma 500 f4 DG DN! Like... right now?

[@CattailChronicles]

We have noticed the A7RIV is slower to focus overall but is within usable for how Steve shoots. Super bummer this lens didn't work for you. Would be awesome to have something in between the 2 lenses. BTW we are not given, loaned or even offered gear as a small KZbinr and we would absolutely declare if we ever were. Thanks for watching!

[@eddier9571]

Mmmmmmmm, let’s go back to the real world lol I like my 200-600 Sony lens. Thank you Sony

[@CattailChronicles]

Heheh. We love it too. But in an alternate universe...🤣

[@iankeel7914]

No one has a problem with Canon L series lenses being white, so why do you? have it on the Sony. I've photographed animals in multiple countries using Sony G series lenses and I've never had a problem with the lens colour.

[@CattailChronicles]

We humans likely stand out more than our lens rights? Depends how stealthy we are and how skittish out subject is and the conditions/environment.

[@carolynvines2027]

Fun video! Makes perfect sense. I suspect a high percentage of photographers with this lens use it for wildlife. It would be nice if they'd paint it a sort of sage green or camel color. Most lenses are black. That would even be better. It doesn't make much sense for it to be white. I guess you could paint it yourself, for now. You're great with DIY projects. 😀 I say no dream is too big. I'm reading Quantum Jumps by Cynthia Sue Larson. We could wake up tomorrow in a world where camera gear is half the price we remember it being. 😃✌🏻🙏🏻 But, seriously, I've often wondered if the prices of certain products, or art by a financially unstable artist, was more reasonably priced for the average buyer if they might actually make more money than they do by keeping their prices so high.

[@CattailChronicles]

Gotta dream big for sure! It's really not too bad a price but I hear what you are saying. Charging for art is multi faceted as you know, gear is only part of the equation.

[@martinfisher5865]

I can't believe I wasted my time watching this.......................

[@CattailChronicles]

Thanks for watching!

[@maximusaugustus6823]

600mm f4 is 13K plus Tax, so almost 14K

[@CattailChronicles]

That hurts the pocket book right?

[@festerbestertester1658]

How could you find 8 nitpicky gripes about this lens, and not mention the erratic focus? It's the elephant in the room. Nine out of ten of my photos get deleted because of the soft focus. That one remaining pic is tack sharp. And this lens only works in "good" lighting or better. Anything less than that, you may as well put it away. You mentioned the narrow aperture, but I've owned much cheaper 5.6 lenses that do much, much better than this one. If I had to do it all over again, I would not buy this lens.

[@CattailChronicles]

There are plenty of other lenses for sure. Thanks for watching.

[@JaredDoyle76]

Definitely need to try out the Sigma 150-600mm F/5-6.3 DG DN OS SPORT. It hit the market in August of last year and it is in my opinion a far better lens in so many ways.

[@frostybe3r]

Unfortunately I’m going to have to tell you that your opinion is completely wrong.

[@CattailChronicles]

Haha.

[@WEHAVETHISDREAM]

You are a sweet couple. Subbed.

[@CattailChronicles]

Aww thanks.

[@for18]

If you have a camera give me a gift my long time dream camera? Love YOU

[@netarichie]

Number “this is legit” cuz the first two reasons are genuinely not valid reasons to hate the lens. You’re paying 2k for a wild like lens. People usually spend 10k average for what you ask. You’re giving opinions on what would be considered an entry level lens for wild life photo a good value for money kinda thing.

[@CattailChronicles]

Ah Richie you didn't understand the assignment. This is a humourous list obviously. Let's not take all this too seriously. Thanks for watching.

[@suzannebarker8066]

Get a carry strap that goes over your shoulder

[@CattailChronicles]

I have one but with a backpack on it's cumbersome. I do still use my spider holster though.

[@hawkeye_V.Z.]

I watched one of your videos. You are not careful with your equipment. And you do not hesitate to blaspheme its manufacturer. I'm ashamed for you. )))

[@CattailChronicles]

Thanks for watching! :)

[@punhumtag]

Hood is the bad quality and very loose not fit with front elements lens

[@CattailChronicles]

Agreed.