Bird Photography Budget Gear Challenge $1000 | Can I Take Good Shots With An Old 10mp Camera

[@AnthonyNovak1]

I continue to be blown away by your videos and their production value. The flow of talking about what you are looking at, showing the final result, then going back and showing what the raw looked like. A+

[@Duade]

G'day Anthony, thank you very much for your kind feedback, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@shibampal6940]

Your advice is extremely lucid to apply at field. You made me realise that even a budget gear can work wonders. Great job Duade.

[@ashpowell9451]

Killed it! I'm having discussion with my wife who's using a 70-300 kit lens on her new Nikon. She's been disappointed but I keep telling her it's all practice. I just bought a 100-400 for my Fuji X-T3 and it's a big, impressive looking lens compared to the cheap Nikon and my first pictures were really average. I reassured her by saying "see, we both just suck at the moment, it's not the gear" ;)

[@Duade]

Thanks for the comment Ash, made me laugh. I'm sure you will both be getting great shots in no time. Sound like you are having fun which is the most important thing. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@rinzevnrossum]

Great video’s . I was a qualified teacher for 43 years. You are a born teacher, chapeau!

[@Duade]

Thanks Rinze, I really appreciate the feedback, congrats on 43 years as a teacher. Cheers, Duade

[@rna3xhelix]

Updates my tinder profile: Looking for someone that looks at me the way this mans looks at these birds... pure love

[@Duade]

Lol that what be some partner. 👍😀

[@rna3xhelix]

@@Duade haha thanks for the cool vid

[@drdhanyajith]

A frank desire..hi hi

[@sverreedin4229]

Very interesting tip that keeping low not only improve the photo but also seems to be important to get close to the birds?

[@Duade]

Hi Sverre, you are correct, by lowering your profile you appear much smaller to the birds and I find it helps a lot to get close. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@stevecolwill9761]

Wow, you certainly passed the test, Duade! Loved all the photos, any one of which would not look out of place in a brochure for the latest dslr. 👍🏻

[@Duade]

Thanks Steve, you are too kind :-) But yes it was interesting to have a play with that old camera which I have not used for birding for over 7 years.

[@Sylvrn]

I'm really loving your videos; the calm tone, the muted music, and the photography and tips are very clear and useful! In this video I really appreciated the raw/final photo comparisons :)

[@Duade]

Thanks Sylvrn, I appreciate the feedback and I am happy to hear you are finding the videos useful, Cheers, Duade

[@CraigPifer]

I bought a 40D used nearly 9 years ago, and I'm still using it. Until I can afford something newer, and justify it for the wife, it's what I'll be using. Sure would love something newer, but it's great to see what can still be done with this old camera, and I do get some winners from time to time. Thanks for the video.

[@Duade]

Great to hear Craig, it is a great little camera that did me well also. Cheers, Duade

[@devonbull7397]

Really love your enthusiasm Duade. I'd be very happy with all those shots! Also love how you show the raw shot as well. Look forward to seeing more of your work

[@Duade]

Thanks Devon, I am glad you are enjoying some of my older content, that was a fun session, that lake is full now so not as many birds. Cheers, Duade

[@Vacublaster1]

Duade, that is fantastic that you have looked back and considered the people who can't afford fancy equipment... Nice job by the way, some great shots there... Whatever that Yellow Billed Spoonbill had been in with its beak, it walked in as well, its legs are just as red.

[@Duade]

Yes it is always fun to use my old gear, the new gear has lots of benefits but you can get good shots with affordable kit. Cheers, Duade

[@mickmckean7378]

They say if you want to take better photos, get better-looking things in front of your lens. Nice work Duade, a very good demonstration of skill and knowledge being a very big part of (bird) photography. The saying "it's not the gear, it's the photographer" is partially true - while the photographer is the main part of the equation, better gear sure makes your life easier. For Canon shooters, that 400/5.6 is a no-brainer as a starter lens for birding.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mick, I agree with everything you say. Good gear just makes it easier and increases the number of keepers. And yes the 400 5.6 is a fantastic little lens to start with. Cheers, Duade

[@Rickyleestjohn]

I love this video, you have proven that it's not the equipment, but the person operating it. THANK YOU!! If I had seen this video 3 years ago, it could have possibly saved me thousands of dollars.

[@Hummingbirder1]

Between 01:47-01:52 there is a bird calling in the background, always heard from your videos recorded at this lake (at least I think it's the same local lake every time). The sound is alomst a hear-alike to US Grackles (mainly Great-tailed and Boat-tailed) but that's not a family to grace Aussie-land... so, what is it?(Edit for adding the Pink Robin emoji...)

[@Duade]

The bird is called a Magpie-lark which is a pretty common smaller black and white bird. The call is very distinctive. Cheers, Duade

[@Hummingbirder1]

@@Duade Thx! It's always good to get a "face" to a birdcall. I have started study my Aussie fieldguide. Planned travel Down Under (from Sweden Up Over) probably late 2023.

[@gastonlk]

Great inspiration. I am from Sri Lanka and just got into the hobby. I was of the opinion that I needed the best equipment but you made me realize it is all about going out there and making best use of the equipment at hand while maintaining the basics and good photography techniques. Thanks and best regards

[@Duade]

Thanks Gaston, great to hear you have got into birding, it is a wonderful hobby, good luck with your photography. Cheers, Duade

[@passkrishna]

Very informative in many ways Duade!! Thanks a lot for shooting this and sharing this video!! You have a new subscriber. :)

[@Duade]

It is my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@shibampal6940]

The giant camera manufacturers need to see this video. The customers are spending thousands of dollars to acquire the latest and best gear and you are taking such professional shots with such an old and affordable gear. This is indeed incredible.

[@Duade]

Thanks, yes, it is always interesting to see what is possible with old gear. Cheers, Duade

[@wilsonlennard4572]

Loving your video's Duade. Nicely done and thanks.

[@Duade]

Thanks Wilson, I appreciate the feedback. 👍

[@tonyclark1504]

Another excellent video Duade. Thanks for taking the time to produce and publish.

[@Duade]

Thanks Tony, my pleasure, hopefully it helps get people out taking photos of birds. 👍

[@MikeRigney]

Fantastic video! Amazed by how many amazing keepers you were able to get in the span of a couple hours. I think the coot was actually my favorite! Which is funny because here in San Diego they're everywhere and I sometimes find myself ignoring them for more "interesting birds." Will definitely pay them more attention after seeing the incredible images you were able to get. Thank you for the great content and looking forward to more!

[@Duade]

G'day Mike, thanks for your comment, yes it was a productive spot, it always helps when the birds are somewhat tame. I too have the habit of ignoring common birds, it's funnt because some of the most beautiful birds IN Australia are very common. Have fun with the Coots. 👍

[@johngunning2123]

Interesting video and some valuable tips for even seasoned bird photographers.

[@Duade]

Thanks John, I'm glad you found it helpful. 👍

[@carlthomson4910]

Hi Duade, thanks a lot for this video, I just happened to come across it and I love it because this style is the same that I use where my budget allows for the same 40d camera and a 70-300mm lense. I also mostly just find a spot and let the birds come which is exactly what you were doing. I really appreciate that you took the time to show people that you can get great shots with not such expensive equipment. Thanks again for the tips!

[@Duade]

G'day Carl, glad to hear you found the video and thanks for the comment. Great to hear you are getting good use out of your 40D, it is a great camera. And yes it is amazing how close birds will come to you if you lay and wait. Cheers, Duade

[@gertjanvanderkooij9242]

Perfect shots and light

[@Duade]

Thank you, I enjoyed that session. Cheers, Duade

[@jamesherrick2566]

Excellent tutorial! Lots of great advice. Can’t wait to get outdoors.

[@Duade]

Thanks James, good luck when you get out there. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@rosetta-stxned]

looking for this exact video. You're a legend. Thank you.

[@Duade]

G'day Chris, glad you found it. Cheers, Duade👍

[@StephenJStephen_Photography]

Duane another excellent instructional video. I had the 40D many years ago. The Canon 400mm F5.6 prime is a wonderful lens, especially for flight shots. Your wonderful images clearly demonstrate that.

[@Duade]

Thanks Stephen, yes I agree, they allowed me to take so many wonderful photos and it didn't cost the earth. Cheers, Duade

[@stevemartin2953]

Great job anyone doubting their gear over their ability needs to watch 👍

[@Duade]

Thanks Steve, I appreciate the comment. Cheers, Duade👍

[@wingz67]

Gday Duade, like all your videos , especially when you start with a cheerful Aussie Gday ! Awesome content... ( going to take the liberty to say " Thanks mate, Cheers " )

[@Duade]

G'day Philip, thanks for the feedback, it would be un-Australian not to say mate😀👍 Cheers, Duade 👍

[@mykelphotography]

A fabulous video Duade, I started a few yaers ago with that exact set up, memories, great useful advice

[@Duade]

Thanks Mick, yes a great lens, I had it coupled to a 7D for years and took thousands of photos. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@jordanlouie4038]

i liked the flying picture the best. I know how much harder they are to get, and in focus as well. Great video.

[@Duade]

Thanks Jordan, yes BIF can be challenging, thanks for your comment. Cheers, Duade

[@Kevansjones]

Wow. Great video with photos I would love to be able to capture. I used to own a 40d and I loved it.

[@Duade]

G'day Kevin, thanks for the feedback, yes, my 40D will stay with me forever, that is where it all started for me. Cheers, Duade

[@Heatherth1]

Expert advice Duade..Loved it..Thanks and well done

[@Duade]

Thanks Heather, glad you liked it. 👍

[@mikem922]

Thanks for the email reply and tips Duade and this gave me a real boost. Fascinating to see your first camera kit (I went from the 500d straight to the 5d III) and nothing beats good old ground crawling and patience. Good older glass appears to easily stand the test of time especially when in your hands. The combo of big lens and extender worked so well at 640mm given the limitations of sensor and ISO limits you had to work with. I am enjoying working slowly through your back catalogue 👍 I did not realise the 40D was a crop sensor hence the 640mm effective reach.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mike, the 5DIII really changed my photography, the first shots I took from it blew me away in terms of noise handling and quality. Yes, it is great what we can achieve with older gear. Have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@brandonhaynes9120]

Awesome video and amazing shots, gives me some relief as I'm about to buy a 90d and been kind of stressing if its a good enough camera for wildlife as I cant afford a expensive camera , hopefully it'll do.

[@Duade]

G'day Brandon, the 90D is a great camera and will give you plenty of joy. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@TheKatWatto]

3 years later... how did you go with the Canon 90? I'm looking at getting one.

[@ashstubbings2603]

I found this video very encouraging because I myself am on a very tight budget. I shoot with a 13 year old Nikon D90 and I'm currently trying to upgrade my lens from a Tamron 18-200mm to.. well.. whatever I can afford!

[@Duade]

Ash, I believe the Nikon 200-500 would be a good option, no doubt a few second hand copies would be available. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@Mathieu_Matheow_Benoit]

Ive just started wildlife photography with a SL3/250D 24mp and 9 focus points with the EFS 55-250mm STM which is the sharpest at F8...all bought used for 750CAD(835AUD, 555USD) Ive done great pictures..."bad" gear forces you to have good technique and squeeze every trick and features your gear have

[@ryanbarnaby1981]

Great vid and photos Duade! Would love to see you review some popular lenses and see how they stack up next to each other. I use a Sigma 150-600 C with a 7D mkII and am always on the lookout for ways to improve

[@Duade]

Thanks Ryan, great kit, I would love to try out the zooms and see how they perform. Hopefully I can do some gear reviews in the future.

[@MrEvestrough]

What a great video and an affirmation of my thoughts on gear( I use a 70D and a 400 5.6) and what it really means to be a photographer. You have to put in the effort. Time and effort and study make your photography stand out. My favourite shots are the beautiful White Necked Heron in flight and your muddy shirt.

[@Duade]

G'day Nigel, thanks for the feedback, yes that flight shot was a bonus. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@gsdhanjal]

Great Video and superb shots you got. I've been in the same boat, and I've got very good prints of birds using my old Sony A100 and Minolta glass. Now, I am thinking of retiring my buddy and planning to go mirroless with either Fuji APS-C or Olympus Micro four thirds

[@Duade]

Good luck with the upgrade, I see the Om1 is doing very well at the moment. Cheers, Duade

[@MLJ7424]

Great video mate. Nothing wrong with a older used camera my first was a Nikon N75 film , then brand new a D70s, and last year a D4 low shutter count, and a used 80-400 , and a pf 300

[@Duade]

Thanks Matt, yes, plenty of fun to be had with older gear, Cheers, Duade

[@mickfromcork]

Perfect. Loved all the pics. I struggle with Canon buffer too. Great tips again.

[@Duade]

G'day Mick, yes the buffer is a pain, it appears to be fixed in the latest cameras. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@kpravinkumar]

Thanks for it.... skill and light makes matter

[@Duade]

G'day Pravin, you are right, Light plays a big part. 👍

[@briansbuildsandoutdoors4936]

Hi Duade, great channel and content. It's great to find Australian content on the tube. This is a great video for those of us on a tight budget or who are just budget conscious. I started out with a second hand 50D and sigma lenses. I've moved on now though to a 7D Mkii and a second hand 5D Mkii which I pair up with 400mm F5.6L and 1.4x converter. I'd love a 500mm F4 but that $13k price tag is a touch too high for me. Anyway Duade, thanks for the videos and all the best, Brian.

[@Duade]

G'day, great to hear from a fellow Aussie. The 7D and 400 5.6 is a fantastic combo and one I had for many years until I killed the camera with salt water. I was very fortunate to get my 500 second hand at an incredibly good price as that retail price is eye watering. Have fun birding, Cheers, Duade

[@gregwilsonnaturephotography]

Hey Duade! Well... I have been watching a number of your videos today! I am amazed at the variety of birds in that small dip of water! All great still shots and well put together video! Sayin' hey... Greg

[@Duade]

Thanks Greg, yes we are lucky with the diversity of birds here, plenty of waterbirds and waders which makes me happy :-) I think Australia has had over 900 species recorded on the mainland and territories and I haven't even photographed 400 yet. Cheers, Duade

[@Whittmike2011]

Nice little Bird Paradise you've got there! Being in North Georgia, I am quite jealous. I really appreciate the video, because so many wild life and bird photographers, are using gear easily $5-$10 Grand, which makes most of us feel, very out of place!

[@Duade]

Thanks Mike, yes the gear becomes very expensive that is for sure. But as I have shown you can still get nice shots with cheaper kit. 👍

[@mohannadmalik5373]

Good video that's exactly what i was looking for , big thanks :)

[@Duade]

G'day Mohannad, my pleasure, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@Jack_Lange]

This was a fantastic video. I'm a new birder, only a year or so, looking at getting a Nikon p900, second hand

[@Duade]

Thanks Jack, good luck with your photography, Cheers, Duade

[@markhalling9195]

Amazing with such an old camera great stills 👏

[@Duade]

Thanks Mark, yes it is amazing what can be achieved with affordable gear. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@davehodge5164]

Hi, Duade. I am a photo enthusiast, not a pro. I own a Canon 7D (which I love) but have wanted to invest in a full-frame camera for some time. New full-frame bodies are out of my price range, but older models are out there for much less and still take good pictures…hence my recent purchase of a Canon 5D Mark II for $400 US. The camera does not have everything you’d find in a 5DIV or an R6. However, it takes clear sharp pictures, and to me it reinforces the main point of your video.

[@Duade]

Dave, thanks for sharing your experience, and yes the camera is only one part of the equation for sure. Good luck with your photography. Cheers, Duade

[@kanga-blue]

M8 if you can sell the 5D Mkii and get your money back do it and buy a 6D Mk I for similar money that camera is better than the 6D Mk ii for stills is as good as a 5D Mk iii in 98% of situations and has better autofocus than 5DMkiii. Leagues above a 5D Mkii. Note that with full frame you lose the extended reach of a crop frame sensor that Duade is using to his advantage here.

[@jan_wegener]

Great video mate!

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, I look forward to making a video together at some stage. 👍

[@andersonboy620]

The camera has quite fast shooting speed even if it is quite weak in other things, thats how you got the system to work. All in all worked quite good.

[@Duade]

Thank you, yes, for such an old body it works well, Cheers, Duade

[@cumuluskeith]

Passed with flying colours - a tremendous effort with the budget gear! However I was waiting to see your shot of the royal spoonbill ... Cheers, Keith

[@Duade]

G'day Keith, thanks for the comment. I took some shots of the Royal Spoonbill in this video kzbin.info/www/bejne/mKqUiKmDiNKee7M Cheers, Duade 👍

[@radioservice1234]

Thanks for sharing your wisdom

[@Duade]

G'day Jose, my pleasure. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@glenncross3196]

Great video Duade, would be interested in a vid on what vid gear you use and how you put the whole thing together, keep up the great work.

[@Duade]

Thanks Glenn, it's very basic at the moment. I'm using my old phone on top of the camera for the wide stuff and my 5d4 and 500mm for the close up bird shots. Ideally I think a light point and shoot with plenty of zoom would be better as the phone quality is terrible. 👍

[@davidburchettephotography6513]

It can be done 😉. Great job explaining and showing how!

[@Duade]

Thanks David, I appreciate the feedback. Happy birding 👍😀

[@shelleypearson]

Such a good video Duade, I enjoyed it very much. Reminded me of how excited I was when shooting with the 7d version 1 with the 400 5.6L. I will be recommending your stream to people.

[@Duade]

Thank you very much Shelley, I think we all started off with similar kit and we all have fond memories. My 7d 400 combo served me well for many years. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@doreengauci5441]

Wow, you videos are amazing, full of tips and easy to understand. Where I live birds are not present in abundance, so so photographing one is like winning the lottery 🙂. Even though I do not shoot canon I really enjoy your videos and it is true when you said that when you get totally focused in what's infront of you and forget anything else. Thanks and looking forward for more. Regards from Malta.

[@Duade]

G'day Doreen, thank you very much for your lovely comment. Yes we are very lucky to have so many birds here. Happy birding, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@jettysplash]

Hi. I love your bird photography videos. Very helpful. Thank you! I've been photographing birds for a year now with a Lumix G9 and a 100-400mm lens. Getting some great photos. Would you share what editor you are using? I am wondering if I will improve in editing contrast with Lightroom compare to a free editor I am using. I noticed in some KZbin videos Lightroom appears to have more controls for "zeroing in" on the effect a person is trying to create. I cannot wait to apply your tips and techniques, especially as some of your suggestions are new information to me, but I am stuck inside for now.

[@Duade]

Hi Jetty, thank you for the comment, sounds like a great kit to take photos. Most RAW converters work very similar, they have several sliders which can impact the contrast of an image. I think Luminar 3 maybe one of the more popular free options. Lightroom is fairly powerful but if you just want to adjust contrast, saturation etc then a RAW converter should work for your purposes. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@charlesfisher2134]

Using the 40 D, what AF do you use. All 9 points & AI servo or the 1 point and AI servo? Great job once again.

[@davidkislyanka]

Awesome, does this setup work well for taking videos?

[@Duade]

G'day David, yes I have taken video on the ground pod. The gimbal is not the best head for smooth panning. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@Rajupkd]

Fantastic !!

[@Duade]

Thanks Sathyameva, Cheers, Duade

[@LiquidTurbo]

Awesome video! have a sub. Good effort on this video showing how gear is not necessarily as important as people think. (Though the camera companies would have us believe otherwise.

[@Duade]

Thanks Brian, yes technique is key, mind you it hasn’t stopped me wanting that rumoured Canon R5 👍

[@thewingedringer]

DSLRs stood the test of time, you can find extremely cheap DSLRs yet take stunning images with them as long as you have good glass.

[@Duade]

I agree, the 1dx, 5d3 are now very affordable and take wonderful photos. Cheers, Duade

[@niekkerver2439]

great video! i am currently looking to buy my first camera (mirrorless most likely, nice and compact) that i can also mount on my scope for some birding action. it seems to be one big maze of countless options for now though =)

[@Duade]

Niek, yes there is a lot of choice out there, I think the R5/R6 currently offer great value for money. Cheers, Duade

[@niekkerver2439]

@@Duade Those sure would be lovely, but a bit outside the price range atm. I am currently looking into the Sony a6000-6600 series

[@Duade]

@@niekkerver2439 If you do go Sony the 200-600 is a wonderful lens. Cheers, Duade

[@BoxerTys]

Great video Duade, i recently bought a Canon 7D with a Canon grip in very good condition and only 15.400 clicks for €195, i think that's very cheap :-) and yesterday i bought a Canon 400mm F/5.6 as new for €800, so i now have a combo for about 1200 US dollars, and i'am happy :-) now i need to practice...

[@Duade]

Congrats on the new gear , I used that exact setup for a number of years and took some of my favourite shots. Good luck with it.

[@BoxerTys]

@@Duade Thanks Duade ! i'm new to the bird photography, unfortunately we don't have that bird diversity here in the Netherlands as you have in Australia, but there is enough left to practice, today i bought the Induro GIT504L tripod, with a gimbal head, i'm a bit older and not that steady anymore hahaha. Greetings, Ron

[@scalaacom]

Nice video. Good even just to see how you work the field. I tried it yesterday - crawling out to the waters edge (through duck poo!). Sadly my 300mm f5.6 just isn’t enough. Birds are soft, and way too small. Need to find some money for something much longer. Looks like even used I need well over $1000 though. 😕

[@Duade]

G'day, yes it can be expensive to buy the longer lenses. If you are using a crop body camera 300mm should still get you some nice shots, perhaps work on tame birds like Pelicans, Gulls, Ducks, Lorikeets which allow you to get closer. It can also depend on the location, if the lake is large the birds will often keep a distance away, if you are in a narrow section or a smaller lake then you will often get closer. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@scalaacom]

@@Duade Good tip - stick with the birds that will let you get close and work up from there. I should be focused on improving my photography in a general sense before worrying about getting the best shots of those rare/hard to photograph birds via an expensive lens!

[@garage662]

Old camera you say... I'm still birding with my 20D. The bells and whistles on new cameras certainly help, but at the end of the day, it's the photographer that takes the picture.

[@Duade]

Well done, glad to hear you are still enjoying the 20D, a credit to your love of photography. Cheers, Duade

[@garage662]

@@Duade thank you for posting a video that proves it's not all gear when it comes to nature photography. We need more people like you. Cheers!

[@Duade]

@@garage662 Thanks, you are too kind. Cheers, Duade

[@blisteringbooks2428]

Duade, the spoonbills at 10.15, would you ever consider stacking? I've had to sometimes with small birds and think it works quite well, in the right situation.

[@Duade]

If the birds stay still then stacking is an option for sure, when the birds are moving it is far more difficult to stack. Cheers, Duade

[@patrickbenthamradley5429]

Great idea Duade ( for us "OAPs" on a budget ! ), great morning out ( without getting myself muddy to boot! ;-) ) and what fine detailed images from 10 megapixels.! ...what I was curious to find out was: what equipment you were using to film your video footage?( which was also excellent !:-) ) What was your mic setup too? Thanks :-) PS: We do have a lot of wildlife lakes around here in central Sweden with lots of migratory birds to capture Spring and Autumn in lens( Örebro )..but that mud is often very cold and wet ;-) :-/

[@Duade]

Thanks Patrick, yes it performs well for its age that is for sure. I currently use my 5dmk4 and a Sigma 50mm lens, I use a Boya Mic at the moment, Cheers, Duade

[@rednik251]

Hi Duade, just watched your fantastic demonstration of how to make do with what you've got. I have just had to sell my Canon 7D Mk 11 and 100mm-400mm canon lens as I am pushing the years and it all got a bit too heavy!! I now have a Panasonic Micro 4/3 G9 with an Olympus 200-400mm....any advice with this arrangement? I've only had it a few weeks (during lockdown) so haven't been able to experiment much except in the garden.. It's very different!! Could you also tell us where this amazing piece of water is???

[@Duade]

G'day Nikki, yes weight can be an issue, I know my 500 gets heavy after a day out birding. I don't have any experience with the Panasonic but I would love to try it out one day. To be honest most cameras these days can take great shots and I am sure you will get plenty with it. Good luck, cheers, Duade

[@rednik251]

@@Duade Thanks Mate! Maybe one day we will meet and you can give it a go! Love all your videos. Even though I have taken photos for years and understand the workings of it, you put it so darn well and simple. Its a great refresher and I enjoy watching a "maestro" at work! Thanks!

[@andrewkeir2282]

Duade Great video and the obviously the most important bit of gear is that stored between your ears. Having said that I have upgraded to a Canon EOS90D coupled with my Sigma 150-600 C and I was wondering what you think of this set up and if I was to upgrade anything what would you suggest? I currently dont have a tripod or a decent gimbal mount and I would appreciate recommendations on those items, (that dont require a second mortgage)

[@Duade]

G'day Andrew, thanks for your feedback and congrats on the 90D, a really good camera which I am sure is taking you lots of nice shots. Unfortunately, I have not used the Sigma myself so cannot offer any feedback/advice on it. I am sure it is a very capable lens. To be honest I would likely hold off upgrading your gear until you really need too. I think Mirrorless will continue to improve and when the time is right it probably makes sense to invest in that. I think the new Canon RF 100-500 appears to be a really good lens and will take converters giving lots of flexibility. I hope to test these lenses in the future so will be able to give my honest feedback. Gimbals are very expensive for what they are, I am actually looking at reviewing a new affordable gimbal in the future so stay tuned for that. In regard to the tripod, the key is getting one that extends to your height without a center column. I use a Benro which is still expensive but much more affordable compared to the Gitzos. Something like this perhaps amzn.to/3iFheQS Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@andrewkeir2282]

@@Duade I asked the question regarding gimbal mounts to Jan Wegener and he recommended the Wimberly but that one costs as much as a small car!!! So I am very interested in a more affordable option so I will look forward to the upcoming video. Thanks for the recommendation on the Beno tripod. Its very hard to choose something when you cant go the stores to browse and ask questions. I am in the process of winding down my business for to semi-retirement so I should get some more time for bird photography and luckily I live opposite Wattle Park in Burwood Melbourne so I have lots of birds to photograph even in lockdown.

[@Duade]

G'day Andrew, I hear you re the cost of the Wimberley, I'm sure the cheaper ones on eBay etc would work. I might buy one of the cheap ones just to try as I think people really want to know what is cheap but does the job. I might try and do a video focused on affordable gear. Cheers, Duade 👍 Birding is a great activity once you have some spare time, so many birds to chase.

[@andrewkeir6909]

@@Duade I bought a cheap one from EBay and it is sloppy and useless. It was a total waste of $80

[@Duade]

Thanks Andrew good to know, the one I'm reviewing will be a quality affordable one.👍

[@Hyeronymus23]

Love all the photos. Lens is the 100-400mm? or it is a fixed 400mm?

[@Duade]

G'day Mauricio, it was the fixed 400 5.6 the 100-400 would be very similar. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@pradeepmurugesan1532]

Such a great video 😍❤️❤️

[@Duade]

Thanks Pradeep, I'm glad you enjoyed it. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@louiebodenstaff6772]

Brilliant!

[@Duade]

Thanks Louie, Cheers, Duade

[@balintk.9373]

Yeah mate, you could take decent shots with a budget kit but the subjects were around you and that is a huge advantage. You can take the same challenge in a dim forest where you have to find your subject and stalk it ;)

[@Duade]

G'day Bálint, yes you are correct, that is where expensive gear shines, in those exceedingly difficult environments with little light. I guess it is all about knowing your gears limitations and strengths and working with what you have. Cheers, Duade

[@balintk.9373]

@@Duade Otherwise brilliant videos, keep up the terrific job!

[@cowboy6591]

I'm confused!! You are using a 400mm canon zoom lens. At 5:21 seconds in, the stats show 640mm at the end of the stats view. Where's the other 240mm over 400mm coming from? Are you using an extender? Speed Booster? Or are you factoring in a "Crop" in edit or the crop sensor.

[@Duade]

Thanks, sorry that is my mistake it should say 400mm focal length and 640mm field of view. Unfortunately I am unable to update. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@fathampeak]

Great video, thanks! I challenge you to build a floating hide from polystyrene, cover it with branches/ reeds etc, mount a 4oomm f5.6 lens and full frame camera and wear dive fins and a wetsuit to get close to birds on the water :)

[@Duade]

G’day Guy, that sounds like a great challenge. Not sure I will be able to do that anytime soon but one day I would like to give a floating hide a go. Cheers, Duade👍

[@tlatown]

Nice Video!

[@Duade]

Thank you, Cheers, Duade

[@soubhikchakraborty6014]

Such a beautiful photos sir. Sir can you also post a video how to edit raw photos in Adobe Photoshop because I don't have Lightroom. Sir one more thing can you tell me Nikon d5600 or cannon 200 d which is best for photography?

[@Duade]

Thanks for your comment. I think the important thing is what lens you are using or have access too. If you can afford the Nikon 200-500 then the d5600 is a good option. If you can get an affordable 400 5.6 then the 200d will be good. The lens is more important than the camera so save hard for that. You can check out this old video where I edit a photo. The sliders in lightroom are the same in Adobe Photoshop Raw Converter. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@AjaySingh-228]

nice camera and nice lens sir..i love it

[@Duade]

G'day Ajay, yes it is a great lens and it has allowed me to take many beautiful photos. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@AjaySingh-228]

@@Duade ya

[@jonathanbooj8347]

Gdey Tdey Okey, Marvellous! Really good video as well, trying hard to photograph birds with my 300mm FF equivalent and I struggle with the reach. Im looking for a used sigma 150 - 600mm F-mount. Do you recon that would be a good start for me? Best, Jonathan

[@Duade]

Jonathan, reach can be a real struggle that is for sure. I think the Nikon 200-500 maybe a better option but I have not used the Sigma 150-600 so it is hard for me to comment. Good luck with whatever option you go with. Cheers, Duade

[@geo1733]

I am confused why the photos show 640MM when the lens max is 400mm? Helpful tips and very well done. Thank you.

[@Duade]

G'day Geo, thanks for the comment. I was using a crop sensor body with a 1.6 crop factor. 400 * 1.6 = 640. Cheers, Duade👍

[@geo1733]

Duade, Thanks for the reply. I am using a Canon 80D, so in essence I am using the same 640mm with my 400mm Canon lens (I just didn't realize it) Very helpful. I subscribed.

[@Duade]

Thanks Geo👍

[@jamesseward9263]

Well, I’d love to see how it compares to the Canon 100-400 V2! 😃

[@Duade]

G'day James, the latest 100-400 is a far superior lens and if you can afford it I would advise it. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@jamesseward9263]

Thank you! It wasn’t easy finding an answer to that. I just bought a used one off EBay and waiting for it to arrive. Can’t wait to test it out. 😊

[@Duade]

Congrats, enjoy, take advantage of the minimum focus distance of 1 metre. You can almost use it like a macro lens on flowers, bugs etc. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@ravidevre4997]

Hey mate, I'm seeking your views on buying a super telephoto lens. I have a budget of around AUD $2000. My shortlisted lens are Nikon 300mm f/2.8 with 1.4x teleconverter (second hand gears) or Nikon 200-500 f/5.6 and last one is Tamron 150-600 f/6.3 G2. I'm a Nikon user. Thanks mate and appreciate your reply.

[@Duade]

Ravi, I see the Nikon is only $1900 from Digidirect at the moment, I believe that is your best value for money at the moment. The old 300 will be very heavy and will be a little short at 420mm. Cheers, Duade

[@ravidevre4997]

@@Duade many thanks. It would be great if you review Nikon 200-500 on your channel. Thanks again

[@shearwoodrotts]

If you are taken where all latest camera bodies are kept and tripods with head etc which best camera body and tripod you will pick ..pls answer I am your big fan

[@Duade]

G'day Pradeep, it would depend on the situation and bird I was photographing. The upcoming R5 looks to be the best camera available for birding. At the moment the D850 is likely the camera I would choose and a 600 F4. I look forward to trying the Canon 100-500 RF as it sounds very versatile. Cheers, Duade

[@shearwoodrotts]

@@Duade Thank you so much what about tripod you will love to have

[@Duade]

I would love to try some of the latest Gitzo tripods, however I have been happy with my Benro one. 👍

[@trout4bait549]

I just stepped up from a 400d to a 7d so my budget is considerably smaller ...a 400 f/5.6 would push me a bit over your $1000 limit - which is way over my budget already - what's the next lens you'd recommend? *I've got a 55-250 zoom now, but it's not what I'd call sharp.

[@Duade]

G'day and congrats on the 7D, a great budget birding camera. Unfortunately there really isn't a budget birding lens new under the $1000 mark. The older sigma zooms are probably the cheapest but they are known to have sharpness issues. I would probably keep saving and get a lens that will last. Sorry I can't be much more help. I would like to review all the budget lenses in the future to see which is the best value. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@trout4bait549]

@@Duade I was able to pick up the 7d for $195 US and it came with a Canon grip, so I made out fairly well. I did do a micro-adjustment to calibrate the lens and a hard reboot since last shooting at birds, so maybe I'll see some improvements. I do have a hunting blind and as much camo as any one man should, so I'll work on getting closer to the birds, and my technique, while I save for that lens. I appreciate your input, and your videos, very much! Thanks!

[@Duade]

Sounds like you are sorted, it can also be worth practising on tame birds such as Gulls, Ducks, Crows etc which allow a close approach. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@thestory006]

The 40D is not cheap today but it was expensive 14 years ago. But yes it is still a very good camera! Unfortunatly the technologie progress quickly and we want always the last one but we forget that the old one make always the job as before. That's what manufacturers want to sell more.

[@gumbysenduro6546]

Fantastic video inspires me to keep trying, although my struggle is with the in body settings of my GH3, things like metering and focusing and how do i achieve the shutter speeds i need, the color profile and format size 16:9 4:3. There's heaps of video's on youtube explaining how to go about it but very few that agree on the basic needs. Just found your channel newly Sub"d :)

[@Duade]

G'day, thank you for your comment. For wildlife, shoot in RAW, this means your colour profile can be changed in post. Shoot in 4x3 and crop in post. Evaluative metering is the best all around. I would advise shooting in AI servo and high speed so the focus tracks the subject and you can take multiple shots at once. You could try shooting in aperture priority and by increasing your ISO will increase your available shutter speed. Usually you want the same as your focal length or more. So a 400mm lens should be trying to get a1/400th SS. Good luck and have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@anandsraam]

Sir, I recently saw this video and it was quite informative. I have been longing to buy the Canon prime ef 400mm f/5.6 for quite some time. I have a canon 80d with a tamron 18-400mm travel lens. I use this lens for shooting birds, butterflies portraits etc. So far the results are good but not very sharp. Since I have been looking at lot of reviews about the above lens, kindly advice whether I can go for it and whether it will be a good combination for Canon 80d?

[@Duade]

Good morning Anand, thank you for your comment, the 80D is a great camera and would work very well with a 400 5.6. It really comes down to how much you are willing to spend. The 100-400 IS II is the superior lens and I would recommend this lens over the 400 5.6. The minimum focus distance of 3.5m on the 400 is limiting when it comes to butterflies and close ups, whereas the 100-400 is almost a macro lens with its 1m MFD. Of course, if you can find the 400 5.6 second hand at an affordable price then it is a very good option. Cheers, Duade

[@anandsraam]

@@Duade Thanks a lot...initially I will try to find a reasonably priced 400mm f/5.6...otherwise wait for some time to go in for 100-400. Thanks a lot once again

[@arupkumarchanda3302]

Which metering mode & AF point is used for this beautiful photography?

[@Duade]

Hi Arup, when I used auto exposure I used evaluative metering and exposure compensation. I usually use single point for stationary birds and will often use AF point expansion for moving subjects. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@joesjourney9986]

Just curious, when you get down in the mud do you ever worry about Crocs? Here in my part of America we have alligators which are not nearly as aggressive but they definitely give me cause for concern

[@ianm5249]

Great advice Duade and a real inspiration . As a newcomer to bird photography, do you have any advice on where to find a reliable second hand camera and lens. Is it just a lottery when buying on ebay or are there reputable dealers to lookout for? Cheers, Ian

[@Duade]

G'day Ian, Gumtree can work ok, just a matter of meeting up and actually using the gear to make sure there are no dramas with it. Ask for the shutter count on the camera as this will usually tell you how much use the camera has had. Each camera has a recommended shutter count, most cameras go higher but good to know what it is. With the lens just make sure if focuses properly and there are no major scratches on the front lens element. If it has IS then try each IS mode and make sure it works. There are a couple of groups on facebook for used camera gear in Australia so they may be worth checking out. I have not purchased any camera gear from ebay as I usually want to see the gear and try it out first. You can also look at grey market(imported new from asia) gear if you are willing to forgo the Australian Warranty. Good luck.

[@ianm5249]

Thanks Duade, appreciate the advice. I'll start looking around to see what's out there.

[@AndyGustavsson]

Great challenge and amazing photos! It would never work in sweden to go up so close to the birds without any camo haha.. I Started out with the Nikon D3400 and a Tamron 16-300mm it worked great and I used it for a year or so before I bought a 200-500, still uses the d3400 when I want more pixels in the photo thou! =) Well done! Cheers

[@Duade]

G’day Andy, thanks for the comment, we are lucky here as many birds live in towns and local lakes where they become accustomed to humans. We still have plenty of flighty birds that require a bit more effort though 👍 Great to hear you were able to use the 300mm which would require plenty of stalking and effort to get close, I bet you noticed a difference when getting the 200-500. An awesome lens for the price. Cheers, Duade

[@AndyGustavsson]

Duade Paton I’ve noticed, it looked like a residental area :) yes a bit, managed to get some photos of a kingfisher a couple of times and som recordings, but the worst part was the amount of CA that lens had... quite some haha, been using it for a year know and I’m very pleased with it 😊

[@jhondoughlasariasa9158]

Gday mate.. good job, Australia

[@Duade]

G'day Ariasa, thanks for the comment. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@oli8093]

Did you use a TC 1.7 that was not mentioned to get to 680mm for the shots?

[@Duade]

G'day Marco, sorry it's a bit confusing but I was using a 1.6 crop body which gives us the full frame equivalent of 400*1.6 which equals 640mm. If I wrote 680 it was a typo on my part. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@shademanirvanipour6870]

You can take good photos with any lens as long as you understand LIGHT and Photography

[@Duade]

Thanks Shademan, yes light is very important, Cheers, Duade

[@theperseverer4373]

What would you say is your optimal shutter speed for photographing birds/wildlife, is it just as high as you can go with the conditions? What is the lowest you would prefer to not to have to go lower than?

[@Duade]

Great question and I am working on a video in relation to this. You are right, it all depends on the conditions and the type of bird I am photographing. Generally I try to keep above 1/400th if I can. Cheers, Duade

[@seltunkoko]

Please suggest me one and all lens for canon 80D

[@Duade]

Seltun, it really depends on your budget and what you plan on photographing. For pure reach the Sigma 150-600 is an affordable option, for speed and sharpness the 400 5.6L is a good option and for versatility the 100-400 v2 is a good option. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@rmgwheelsspokeslab.7767]

Is that a bird what "sings" at 8:20??? :o

[@Duade]

G'day, pretty sure that was an Australian Magpie who have a lovely call. Here is my gallery of Magpies photos.duadepaton.com/Birds/Woodswallows-Currawongs-Butcherbirds-and-Magpie/Australian-Magpie

[@nektariosdroulos1852]

I would choose a Nikon D300s/D300.

[@Duade]

Thanks Nektarios, thanks for your input, Cheers, Duade