BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY | What's the RIGHT LENS for YOU?

[@josephcole3187]

For the price i really like my Tamron G2 150-600mm it’s not the fastest or sharpest but it gets me nice images that i can be proud of.

[@jan_wegener]

And that's the most important!

[@alasdairmackenzie905]

I use the same lens and get great images from it. I also like the flexibility that it gives, which you don't get with a prime, i.e. I don't want to be moving about too much to get the image sized properly and end up scaring my target off. .It's maybe not Canon f4/600 quality but I reckon that it gives a super balance.between quality and cost, particularly for an amateur photographer who isn't making money from his images and so needs to work within a more modest budget than the GB£12,000 for Canon's beast

[@rogerbarnett8412]

Love my G2 as well, but just now acquired a 500 II..(not my first big white!!). the G2 can hold its own, somewhat... but won't AF with either Canon extender, of course....

[@luismaquina83]

My favorite lens for bird photography is the Nikon 200-500 5.6

[@jan_wegener]

very nice!

[@micware2]

Nikon 100-500 is my current lens for bird photography

[@PolishX]

I got one this summer and just discovered bird photography and coupled with my D-610 its amazing. However I shoot lazy and just shoot aperture priority and stop down

[@babs274]

I like the ultimate image quality and extender used with prime lenses!

[@rayrardinii5864]

First of all, love your videos. Thank you for posting. I do a lot of hiking and love nature photography; which, includes birding. After many years have whittled my camera gear down to two lenses, two camera bodies, and the EF 1.4x III and EF 2.0x III extenders. This allows me great focal length range with fairly robust IQ images. Usually pair the Canon 300mm F/2.8 L IS USM II EF with the Canon R5. The IQ coming out of this setup is unbelievable. Not to mention the lightening fast AF and animal eye detection. The 45mp in the R5 helps if cropping is needed (try not too). The 1.4x and 2.0x tele-converters make for a nice 420mm/4.0 and 600/5.6. The 1.4x barely has any loss in IQ (one has to pixel peep to see the difference), the 2.0x is noticeable but the images are still great. Have used the Canon 400mm 28 and 600mm 4.0 - but both are heavy; especially, the mark I versions, wouldn't use without a tripod. Love hiking the Arizona backcountry, I am not a sit with a tripod and wait type of person. The 300mm is my preferred lense due to its weight and ability to be handheld. When I want extra reach can use a tele-converter - later in the day when walking back to my car and the sun is going down - the 300 excels shooting wide open at 2.8. Seriously, the lense is Magnificent wide open. My other pairing is the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens with the Canon 7D Mark II. I love the 100-400mm due its 3.2 feet minimum focusing distance and 0.31x maximum magnification. Its not a true macro lense - but works well for flowers, butterflies, and any other small object you want to photograph. The lense coupled with the 7D’s 1.6x crop factor gets you a maximum of 640mm, add on the 1.4x extender, you are looking at 896mm. Wouldn’t recommend using the 2.0x extender if you are picky about IQ. I do have the Canon 100mm 2.8 macro lense and the 1DX Mark II body - but the two setups above are what is used most often when birding. A lot of the places I hike are in dense forest and riparian areas where 300mm is plenty long enough to photograph wildlife - and - taking a heavy lense and tripod would make it very very difficult. One last point. Even though the Canon 300mm 2.8 might not have the reach of the 400MM 2.8 or 600mm 4.0 and therefore; not considered the best birding lense(s) - but due to its weight and focal length - I get so much use out of it beside birding. Due to Covid - one should be conscious of getting gear that allows greater flexibility of use. One day you might want to do portraits/landscapes with a compressed view or photos of local events. The 300 is a very good lense for those.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for your comment Ray, sounds like a great set up and set of lenses you have with you on your hikes. I agree that the 600 gets very heavy quickly

[@Duade]

Another wonderful video mate, you have packed in a lot of good info. I think having a light zoom and a bigger prime is ideal. Heres hoping for a 600 f4 DO that is less than a new car. 😀👍

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks mate! Let's hope so, but I wouldn't get my hopes up!

[@jamesdurso6608]

I use a Canon 500 f4 with the 1.4 TC and shoot 700 5.6 hand held .... unbelievable ... with the R5 .... But .. yes heavy .. I have a version 1 ..not the lighter Version 2 . got it at half price in Mint condition . it hard at times to get every shot with my muscles beginning to hurt after a day in the field ..but it is good exercise and I get super professional shots ..yes I started with 100-400 canon back in the day ...remember ..I go back to color slides ..oh forgot to tell you I'm 71 years old and in the field almost every day .I love bird photography ..( as well as other kinds ..) but spend most of my time and money my Bird photography . Your videos are a great help .. especially when I got my R5 ... it changed everything ..(as you know).all your tips , and settings have helped as starting points so I could get busy customizing it to my artistic needs . well thanks ..And also my ideal set up would be a new 600 f4 version 3 .. so light ..even lighter than the tank I have and so hand holdable I suspect ... don't care for tripods ... but will never sacrifice the BIG primes .. they are amazing ...a level beyond words in sharpness . the R5 has change my whole approach and level of fun and goal of improvement and perfection ...lol. the 600 f4 version is WAY too expensive ..(for me ) but I got my 500 f4 for $5000 6 years ago and ...well now others can get one in mint for 3500 .. a newer and lighter 500 f4 in Mint may be and option for me at$ 5500 or so . thanks again ..love watching ALL your videos .. I have taught Digital Photography in college for years and know how good it feels to teach and help people with something you love . Keep up the good work and HAPPY SHOOTING ... sincerely. Jimmy Durso Jr. .(. DURSOJR on instagram . )

[@jan_wegener]

Wow, handholding a big prime all the time is very tiring! You must be pretty strong hehe. Great to hear you are enjoying my videos. I will check out your Insta

[@RogerZoul]

I agree with you on the 600 f4 as the ultimate lens for birds, but it also has a pretty ultimate price and weight too. :)

[@jan_wegener]

very true!

[@Henry30065]

Very interesting video Jan containing good advice. I am an enthusiastic amateur so I don’t have to worry about making money from my photography, however, I like to take good quality images that I can be proud to hang on the wall or give to family as gifts. I am currently finding it almost impossible to select a suitable super zoom lens. The conflicting comments from KZbin reviewers have caused more confusion than help. I am slowly coming to the conclusion that the ‘perfect’ lens simply does not exist, at any price! As you said in the video, it is all about compromise.

[@jan_wegener]

A super zoom by definition is kinda a compromise. I think that's part of the issue. But there are some pretty good ones out there. What brand are you looking at?

[@ambermay7032]

Best info Ive found so far for bird photography lenses. Ive recently switched to a Sony mirrorless from a bulky Nikon DSLR and have found so many telephoto lenses available. I'm new to bird photography so I have been a bit lost. I think I have a much better idea of what I want now after watching this.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad it was helpful!

[@MurrayVader-xp8iv]

Right now I'm using a canon rebel xs and t7. I'm using a canon 75 to 300. I think I'm having some success. Ive being into photography since I was 18 and just turn 69. I worked with film slr most of that time. Digital was a bit of a mystery to me till I took Joel Sartore course. I learned from you today while extenders don't work for me. That was a big help to know. I think 400 would be a big help right now.

[@gregwilsonnaturephotography]

Hey Jan, Great video and information. I shoot on the dark side Nikon... And I have to say I just love my 500 mm 5.6 PF lens with either my D500 or D850. It's so lite and pretty fast focus. Even with video though Nikon is not great at auto focus during video but I am getting a bit better at working around it. Sayin' hey... Greg

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that's a lovely lens! The D850 is such a good wildlife camera. Yes, Nikon has been lagging behind a bit in recent camera, especially mirrorless.

[@Jayling]

Thanks for putting this together with your thoughts and shots too, Jan. I'm not a wildlife shooter and am amazed at what you folks get. I'm into filming the night sky and zooming up to the planets, stars, nebulas, and moon. I'd love to get the new Canon RF 100-500mm lens but it's so expensive. Anyway, once again, thanks for sharing with us.

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! Yes the 100-500 looks very nice, but I have been not impressed with the price myself! I had looked at it, but it's almost 5000 AUD here, so i decided to take a wait and see approach :D

[@MW-ty1dv]

I started wildlife photography this year. Really enjoy your insight. After watching many YT channels I have settled on a Nikon D500 and the Nikkor 200-500 5.6mm . I know it's been around for 4 years but for the money it seems to be a good combo.

[@Falkenroth1]

Impossible to beat that combo. It’s ridiculously good.

[@jan_wegener]

This is by far the most popular combo in the comments here, too. Makes me wanna try it out!

[@tc6912]

I have the D500 as well. A late 2019 purchase for me. However, I went with the 500pf because it was lighter. A little pricier than the 200-500, but still a good bang for the buck. I hope to get a 600 f4 someday and go full frame, but I will wait for the mirrorless wars to settledown first.

[@nguquyen]

Thank you so much. Your video is so inspirational. My bird photography "career" is at the infant stage. I am a Sony shooter and have just had Sigma 100 400 for a couple of weeks. I love the flexibility the lens brings to me. I am quite pleased with what I have right now.

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds like a great starting set up

[@TheRealLerad]

I'm nearly almost use my 400mm f2.8 often with a 1.4x TC or a 2x TC. Usually with my D850 but if I need more reach I use my D500 (1.5 crop). This setup is definitely on the heavy side but the images I get out of it are absolutely worth it. At least to me. With the two bodies and two TC you still have plenty of focal length to choose from. This of cause isn't a cheap beginners setup, but if you can afford it, it is worth every penny.

[@jan_wegener]

sounds like an awesome set up!

[@CamillaI]

Currently trying to decide between the 400mm Sony f2.8 or the 600mm f4 edging towards the 600 but its not easy at this price level. Thanks for the help me decide !👍😀

[@jan_wegener]

For birds I would always go for a 600 unless I was shooting larger birds in dark environments

[@joshuahorner2639]

I am deliberating the same decision but with Nikon 🙂

[@joshuahorner2639]

Jan Wegener Do you mean more specifically in forested or jungle environments like the neotropics rather than the sunny locations that most of your videos show?

[@jan_wegener]

@@joshuahorner2639 well, personally I would always pick a 600, unless I was shooting Bowerbirds/Birds of paradise in a rainforest for instance. With the larger birds and darker environment a 400 could be nice.

[@dance2jam]

600mm f/4. Completely agree with Jan. I had the same conversation going on in my head for nearly a year. Bought the 600mm f/4 used and never looked back. As Jan mentions, unless you do larger birds in low light you will really appreciate the 600mm f/4 reach. It also gives me the flexibility to put it on a D500 APSC camera body and have a 900mm f/4 (for light gathering, f/5.6 equivalent DOF) lens or with TC 1.4 1260mm f/5.6 (DOF f/8) on a APSC. This helped me get a wonderful photo of a sparrow on a tree stump, wipe out the background, isolate a small subject with exceptional IQ. You just can't get there from 400mm. I believe the few times you'll need f/2.8 over f/4 won't equal your desire to get the reach instead. The 400mm f/2.8 have exceptional IQ, but you'll be cropping small birds a lot of the time which will degrade your image. If you shoot mostly certain types of indoor or outdoor sports the Nikon 180-400 with TC or equivalent other brands would be an excellent choice.

[@Falkenroth1]

Nikon user here. Im currently using a 300mm 2.8, 400mm. 2.8 and 200-500mm 5.6. Both my 2.8 glass are older versions but still performs very well. Funny you mentioned the 500mm 5.6 prime pf. Getting ready to pull the trigger on getting one. I do a lot of walking when I bird so carrying my big prime 2.8 is a chore. I totally agree about the 600mm range. Always find myself wanting to be closer at 500mm. Shoot with the D500 crop and D4S full frame cameras.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes! that's the thing about 500mm for some reason, you always wish to be that little bit closer and I have that a lot less with 600mm. Great lenses you got there. Carrying the big lenses is a real pain!

[@RogerFance]

Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 mated with a D500. I can't imagine I would have the flexibility I want to carry around a big prime lens on a tripod. I like the flexibility to be able to change position and shooting direction quickly to match skittish birds and I shoot more in natural environments than with perch setups. So hand held for me. I accept that this may result in lower quality images but in many cases I still have the option of "saving" the image in Photoshop, especially with reducing noise in the background. Thanks for your video Jan, I always enjoy watching them.

[@jan_wegener]

That lens is by far the most popular lens out there it seems if we go by the comments here. Makes me wanna try it out! Nothing wrong with your approach at all. Glad you are enjoying my videos!

[@mattpacker4372]

The new Nikon 600 pf6.3 I’m almost certain I will purchase… am not into a system, but not sure I can spend that plus with the new z8 what would another full frame mirrorless Nikon camera would be ideal? Birds are my favourite subjects

[@guyjackson4143]

I started out with a canon 70-300. Then got into photographing birds of prey and upgraded to a used Tamron 200-500 used. When Tamron introduced their 150-600 with image stabilization I purchased it and it is still my main lense. I also usually carry a spare camera with a Tamron 16-300 mounted on it. If I have a place to setup and wait I have a Celestron C5 1250mm spotting scope I can mount a canon body on with a adapter. The biggest draw back is it's a fixed f10 and I have to focus the scope using live view but the images are good enough for printing to canvas. I can install a focal plane reducer to drop it to f6.3 but I lose 250 mm of reach. Great video please keep making them.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks Guy, I will. interesting set up you got there!

[@animefan73]

Outstanding video, as always! I recently upgraded to an EOS R, (from a 40D) and just picked up the Sigma 150-600 C - very much looking forward to spending some quality time in the field with the new lens!

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome, congrats

[@davidjennings8231]

thanks great tips.im using a 100-400 canon lens, a canon 70-200 miles and a 70-300 lens also converters ,

[@bruceterrill8730]

Hi Jan, Another great video and a thought provoking one too! Personally I am financially 'stuck' with the Nikon 200-500mm F5.6 zoom lens, However, there's not much that this beautiful piece of glass can't do. As you would know/guess, this lens is basically set to 500 and never leaves that point, but it does give me the flexibility to zoom out a bit if I find myself with a bigger/closer bird. I did, at one stage, have a 300mm F2.8 but it was always wearing a 1.4X or 2X t/c and never offered me what I really wanted from a big prime. If my situation changes and I can swing one in my direction, I would purchase the new 500mm F5.6 PF lens, but some, including myself, would ask what it really offers over my current lens apart from the light weight? I am seriously thinking about, and trying to achieve, the purchase of a good second hand Nikkor 500mm F4 prime and to me this would be the ultimate prime. Just as a last point, I would rather go into the field slightly under-gunned rather than over-gunned and to me this would mean carrying a 500mm F4 rather than the 600 F4. Hope that this is of interest to you mate. Bruce

[@jan_wegener]

Another 200-500. It's so popular it seems! I haven't tried the 5.6/500, but I would expect better image quality and smoother backgrounds. And you should be able to use an extender. Whether it's worth the upgrade is hard to tell.

[@dance2jam]

Bruce, I own the 200-500 f/5.6 (see my comment above). I've taken thousands of shots with it and it was the lens that got me interested in Bird Photography in the first place. I would be happy to trade stories and images with you if you are interested. Friends of mine shoot with the 500mm f/5.6 and the IQ is excellent and they love the lite weight. I've compared my IQ to theirs and it's pretty close at times. My only problem with that lens is the f/5.6 minimum aperature (which most of them leave it set at most of the time). I purchased the newer version of the 600mm f/4 used (didn't want the older versions because they were so heavy and I couldn't see carrying them around). I know you said price point was important (of course it is) and the 200-500 is excellent. One last thing, I've thrown the 1.4 TC on the 600mm on a D500 (ridiculous focal length of 1260mm f/5.6 - WRT AF - light transmission, f/8 equivalent DOF) and obtained some outstanding BIF photos. The 200-500 doesn't work with a 1.4 TC attached because the f/stop drops to f/8 and AF is poor especially in low light with only the center AF point available.

[@nightmareaccomplice5816]

Dream lens nikkor 600mm prime! Ive just plurched a tamron 150-600mm (g1) sharper than I thought it would be even at 600mm (6.3)! 😌

[@jan_wegener]

that's great!

[@BandsawBob]

Currently using a 7D Mk ii with a 100-400mm IS II lens. Sold a bunch of gear to MPB that I wasn't using and have a R5 on order. My dream lens is the 600mm iii, but used ones don't exist. It's actually lighter than the 500mm IS ii which is my 2nd choice and is probably what I'll end up with and use a 1.4x when needed.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, version III would be nice, but hard to get and pricy

[@quazisanjeed6395]

Thank you for the video. Spot on. As an enthusiast wildlife photographer, I bought a Canon EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II USM lens after deep thought. In fact, a 2.8 telephoto prime lens makes it three lenses in reality, the bare lens, the lens +1.4x and the lens +2x. Addition of 2x produces 5.6 aperture which does AF on all Canon DSLRs. Moreover, I can hand-carry this combo for a while when required. I use this awesome lens with 2x teleconverter almost always and don't notice any quality drop. For somewhat static and close subjects I use my workhorse 5DII and for distant subjects 7D. For missions far away from home, I setup this combo on a tripod while carrying another portable combo for flight shots. This latter combo is Canon 7D + Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM. However, for getting more reach that I feel is necessary sometimes; I'm planning to get an EOS R body. That will allow me to stack extenders and still get AF. I might even stack two 2x extenders for getting the maximum reach on that EOS R. I may buy it sometime this year, of course with the adapter. I'm always for brand, not third party equipment. This is my view on wildlife/bird photography. Thank you again.

[@jan_wegener]

Nice set up of lenses. I have never tried to stack 2x extenders. I wonder if that actually works.

[@quazisanjeed6395]

@@jan_wegener, I stacked two 2x extenders multiple times with the EF 300mm 2.8 for getting closeup shots of the full moon. The combo did AF in live view on my DPAF EOS 70D body with touch focus and shutter. And on my 5DII body, I had to focus manually. Good results in both the cases. Thank u for everything.

[@jan_wegener]

@@quazisanjeed6395 Oh nice!

[@aaalokrbl4]

I am currently using Sony 200-600mm G lens. It works well when light is good but as expected with f6.3 it struggles to deliver the good image quality. It’s not lens problem, it’s the amount of light coming through to the sensor. One more thing to mention, extenders(1.4) degrades the IQ further. Looking forward to have 600mm prime. Thanks for sharing the info in video. It’s really useful. It’s always very interesting to watch you here, cheers.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad you enjoyed the video. The 200-6000 seems like great second lens to a 600 prime, too

[@mbsteidl4605]

I learn so much from you Jan. My wish lens is what I now have, a Canon 100-400. Yes, I would absolutely love the 600, but don't believe it is in the cards, so am trying to improve my skills to get the most out of what I have.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear that :) The 100-400 is great and it's the perfect lens to hone your skills

[@Rickyleestjohn]

Excellent video, thank you very much. I am knew to bird photography, and struggling with what lens to buy, I shoot with Canon. Thank you

[@rentoulzz]

Thanks for the great comments. I have just bought the canon R5 and have the 100-400 Mk 2 which is great but a bit limited with the 1.4 extender as I loose image quality. I have ordered the new 100-500 RF. I have read reports that it works well with the 1.4 extender which will give me 700 mm. so I will see if it is as good as is reported. lots of money but as I can't travel now am spending on gear. all the best. Love the Australian birds. New Zealand has some great ones . Have you been over yet?

[@jan_wegener]

Only been to NZ once and didn;t really take pictures. The 100-500 will be great. Quality wise it will be nice with the extender, only downside is F10 wide open

[@jasonlaughton7]

Hi Jan. I've been shooting wildlife for about 11 years and 6 months ago I bought the Nikon 500mm PF VR lens. What a super lens. I also use a Nikon D850 camera. A wonderful combination. Thanks for your vlog. I will subscribe from now on.

[@jan_wegener]

awesome, thanks for sharing. That 500 is a great little lens

[@Mencheperure]

I started with a affordable old Sigma 150-500. great image stabilization but really slow AF. Over the years I tested the 150-600 Tamron/Sigma and was not convinced by either in terms of image quality or autofocus speed. For 2 years I am shooting with Canon 100-400II , which is an amazing lens that even allows for some crop in, as 400mm is sometimes a bit short. My dream lens would be a 400 or 500mm f4 prime lens but for now this is well out of budget for someone like me who ist just a hobbyist.

[@shafiullahhares2585]

Did u use sigma 150-600 sports? How is it compare to canon 100-400 m2? I am using canon 100-400 m2 and thinking about sigma 150-600 sports for more reach? Will it be wise or not?

[@Mencheperure]

@@shafiullahhares2585 I had only the contemporary but also the sports will not come close to the quality of the 100-400. you can check the comparison here www.the-digital-picture.com/Reviews/ISO-12233-Sample-Crops.aspx?Lens=972&Camera=963&Sample=0&FLI=4&API=0&LensComp=978&CameraComp=963&SampleComp=0&FLIComp=5&APIComp=0 Especially on the long end the 150-600 is way too soft for my taste.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the 100-400 II is one of, if not the best zoom lens around.

[@patthompson1253]

I bought the Canon 600M F11 and returned it. The images were very sharp but the narrow focus area was, in my opinion, too restrictive. I live in Newfoundland where we have a lot of cloud cover most of the time - I struggled with the light and the F11. So I have ordered the new RF 100-500 zoom. The reviews have been great and hope that it lives up to it's billing. Thanks Jan - I enjoyed the video

[@jan_wegener]

I hope you will like that one better. I will get the 11/600 next week to play around for a while. I will make a video about it

[@canonphotographer]

Interesting video Jan, I finally got my EOS R5 body and what a camera it is Wow!... I shoot with a Canon 600mm f/4 III lens which is so much lighter than the 1 & 2 versions and is much easier to handhold in the field , it's even lighter now I have taken the EOS 1DX II off and replaced it with the R5, when I do use a support its just a Gitzo monopod with the new Wimberly mono gimbal head (MH-100) I can move quickly with this set-up than I can with a large cumbersome tripod.

[@jan_wegener]

That's the combo I'd love to have. Must be brilliant!

[@AlexanderSogliero]

Great video and analysis Jan. Nikon 300mm f/2.8 ED VRII here with both 1.4 and 2x telli. As you mentioned that 500pf is on the wishlist.

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing!

[@dance2jam]

Jan, thanks once again for making the most out of 17 minutes. Your "focus" on the topic kept me watching and listening all throughout. I've been shooting almost 3 years now. I started with the Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6 (used) about one year into it. I found, as you mention about these types of zooms, that the image quality dead center was exceptional, but I became frustrated (after about 9 months) with slow AF for BIF. My thought was I had so much time invested in driving to locations at dawn and photographing my subjects, it was worth investing in better glass. I researched many months what I wanted and then waited for an open box discounted copy of a Nikon 600mm f/4 E FL ED VR lens. I couldn't see myself carrying around a lens in the field that was 10-13 lbs (older versions) and it would likely sit in the closet. I (almost) never hesitate to take the 8 lbs version (Sony/Canon 6 lbs) with me. I also paid a price that if I sell it will recoup the value as you did with your first 600 mm until Nikon puts out a mirrorless version. I've never regretted the purchase. The AF is quick, accurate, the images sharp, and the quality of the out of focus elements next level (as you know). I had a chance to purchase the 500mm f/5.6 several times, but am happy where I am for now. In summary, it was faster AF, better IQ, ability to shoot in low light, smoother looking out of focus regions, weight, and the ability to frame up my photo the way I wanted to that drove me to the 600mm f/4, Thanks for providing a quality review and recommendation for new bird photographers and a refresher for the rest of us slightly less new.

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds like you made the right choice! 600s are just great :)

[@BudBetz]

Good video Jan. I'm new to your channel. I shoot Nikon. I have a Z9 and a 200-500 f5.6 and a 1.4 teleconverter. I've been shooting larger birds (Eagles, Great Blue Herons, Hawks, Owls) and the photos are pretty good. Still working the right combination of speed and aperture and ISO to get clearer images. I've also shot some smaller birds with decent results. You recently reviewed the Nikon Z 100-400 f4.5-f5.6 with lots of positive feedback as well as the 1.4 and 2.0 teleconverters. Another KZbinr (Mark Smith) did a comparison between the 100-400 and the Nikon 500mm f5.6 PF lens with a similar review of the 100-400 you gave. I have the 100-400 and 1.4 on back order and look forward to working with them when the arrive. I think the comparison will be great as both are good glass. I have new lens envy for the new Nikon 400mm f2.8 and the 800mm f6.3 but the budget won't support it for the foreseeable future. Maybe a year or two down the road. Gives me the enthusiasm to keep going. Thanks for doing what you do. I'll be watching to pickup tips and techniques. Appreciate what you do for those like me. -Bud

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for your great comment :)

[@AlaskanFeverArchery]

Hi Jan, absolutely 600mm is the minimum for birds. I had 500mm as well and I sold it when I bought my 600mm cine. I use an Enna Munchen 600mm F5.6 cine lens for birds and wildlife for 3 years now. It is a rare german vintage glass but sharp enough to get good results. I use sometimes with 2x teleconverter as well at F11-13-16. As a field birdwatcher, it is an amazing and "cheap" weapon and good enough to make nice pictures too.

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds interesting, never heard of it!

[@julianwaller5814]

Just starting bird photography and really helped by your video: I have an EOS-r and current using an EF 70-200 which unsurprisingly is not useful in most situations. My question is whether an EF 400 or 500mm will still enable autofocus if used with with a 1.4 or 2.0 extender. Many thanks

[@jan_wegener]

Great! Yes, on a mirrorless they should all still focus.

[@robbeythecarpenter8493]

Alas.. age and failing health are taking their toll. I purchased the D500 and 200-500 a few years ago and now find it just too heavy for me to use now ... and I am not really up to lugging this combo around with the tripod and gimbal any more. So I've changed tactics and find sites/hides where I can set up and stay seated for a few hours and wait for the birds to come to me ... some water and seed usuallly attract them in. Recently I've been using the Z6 or D500 with the light weight 70-300 4.5-5.6 and I am getting aceptable results. My aim is not really to get pictures that are magazine quality ... rather just to document my sightings in natural habitat and do a bit of video too (hence the Z6). Jan, I follow your channel with great interest ... perhaps you might consider doing a session on light weight combos for seniors like me, please. Thanks Rob

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds like you found a good solution for yourself. Thanks for the idea, I will keep it in mind

[@joaquimjoseaguiar4531]

Hi Jan, thank you for your great vídeo. Could you give your opinion on this. The camera is the R6, and my options right now are: EF 70-200 mk iii with Canon 2x extensor or the old Canon ef 400mm f/5.6L or sigma/Tamron 150-600 or Canon RF 600 f11. What do you think? My question about RF 600 is photographing in early morning. Other options ? Thanks in advance. Best

[@jan_wegener]

The best lenses out of this selection will likely be the Sigma 150-600 and the Canon RF 11/600. 70-200 and 2x won;t have great image quality. And 5.6/400 is pretty old and has no IS.

[@andrewxx7]

Hi Jan, I used to have the 70-200L 2.8 with the extenders but never had frame filling shots all the time, I saved for 10 years plus for the 600mm f4 mkii and love using it

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome! That is a great lens.

[@benjaminmesa1089]

I have the Canon 500mm F/4 IS myself. I find that for most of my shooting, it's just the right focal length, and if I need more, there is the extenders, which are not half bad.

[@jan_wegener]

yes, it's a great lens

[@petergottschling2597]

Hello Jan, You are so lucky in Australia with all those colorful birds. Before digital and AF I used a 400 and worked up to the 500 f4.5. Once digital and AF came out I have been using Canon 100-400 and then version II since 2015. This IS II was a sharp upgrade in sharpness and AF. I find it very easy to carry on planes with all the restrictions that have come in about carry-on. I will eventually get an R5 early next year and it would be great if Canon (or anyone with RF mount) came out with a small prime RF 500 f5.6 for easy travel that cost less than $3000. I certainly don't miss talking my way around airport X-ray with 125 rolls of new or exposed film I just don't think they would listen to me any more. I enjoy your talks.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the 100-400 II is a great lens. And I agree, a smaller 5 or 600 RF would be an amazing combo for the R5. Although if Canon actually made it, it would probably costs 15k :(

[@paulgibbings9553]

Currently using the Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary with EOS R6 & 80D, I do like that with the crop factor on the 80D I have a 960mm top end, which is useful for the smaller birds, but I do love the autofocus and great iso performance of the R6. I suppose that now I have gone to Mirrorless the ultimate lens is the new RF 600mm F4, but that's one hell of an investment for an amateur (just over £13,000 here in the UK)

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, I am sure that will be quite the lens. Hopefully I will get my hands on one soon!

[@ashfield001]

Thanks Jan for the good advice. I found the images too soft from my Canon 300mm F2.8 with the converters. Recently upgraded to the 600mm F4. Happy days. 🥳

[@jan_wegener]

Always using a 2x is not ideal, so a blank 600 will be a big upgrade. congrats!

[@johnpavan3798]

I'm currently using a sigma 60-600mm sport. As someone that is starting out with bird photography the large zoom range is useful for finding the bird and then zooming in. Recently, I've mostly been keeping it at 600mm though. Unfortunately, I usually shoot early or late, so I'd like a bigger aperture.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, getting enough light for the zooms in always a challenge. I made a video about how to quickly find birds in the viewfinder. kzbin.info/www/bejne/hIqkZIBjobKEpZI

[@przybylskipawel]

My dream lens is Olympus 150-600 PRO. But I am pleased with my Sigma 60-600 EF

[@helloianzakharov]

Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I am waiting for RF 600 mm f/4. It promises be lighter and no adapter required

[@jan_wegener]

You and me both! I hope we will get our hands on one this year!

[@subaitascrafttree6693]

Thanks for sharing the informations.....its really helpful which zoom lens i need to buy...again thanks a lot.. I have a question, how will be the Sony a6400 with Tamron/Sigma 150-600mm lens for wildlife photography????

[@jan_wegener]

with the dedicated Sony 150-600 I would assume it will do pretty well, but I haven't tried it myself

[@subaitascrafttree6693]

@@jan_wegener Thanks brother....I know its good but it also very expensive.... That's why i have asked you about Tamron/Sigma 150-600mm which is affordable for me

[@jan_wegener]

@@subaitascrafttree6693 I am sure it will work

[@gregdonoghue3464]

Shooting Olympus, the 40-150mm 2.8 Pro Lens with the 2X Extender is my goto lens combo for BIF giving me a FF of 160-600mm. I also use the 300mm F-4 Pro with the 1.4 Extender, which gives me the eq. of 840mm FF. My dream lens would be the new Olympus 150-400mm F 4.5 with built in 1.25 Extender which is coming this winter!

[@jan_wegener]

Very interesting. The 2x crop allows for some small lenses!

[@monmd100]

Thanks Jan. I am intrigued by the Canon RF 600mm or 800mm lenses. I just started using the Canon R5, and greatly appreciate your methodical review and helpful tips. It greatly helped get a quick start to learning my way around the camera. At this point, I'm still using a EF 300mm f4 prime with or without a 1.4x extender, which is a pretty flexible option for on-the-move or on-the-boat bird photography. I look forward to your thoughts about these new telephoto options for Canon. The 600mm in particular looks like it might have the benefits of low weight that would retain that flexibility when on the move. I'm concerned about the light gathering, with the f11, although the image stabilization of the lens and body may recover some of that performance.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear my videos helped :) The IBIS and IS will help, but at some stage the movement of the birds become the main issue. Anything much under 1/400 will created a lot of blurry images due to the bird moving, even if you could handhold 2 sec.

[@steveherman1283]

I have been shooting EF 500 f4 ii for 3 years mostly with 1.4x & 5D4, mostly hand held. I was seriously looking at the 600mm f4 iii, but as you point out Canon appears to be switching to R so I'll wait to see what RF super tele's might pop up. There is a rumor of a RF500mm f2.8 which is intriguing depending on weight and ability to take extenders. Meanwhile I have a R5 and RF800 f/11 on order; not hopeful on the f/11 part, my best birding is in tropical rain forests where I struggle with adequate light even on sunny days, but worth a try for the price & R5 + 800 f/11 is less than 1/2 the weight of my current 500mm kit. Thanks for the video well said.

[@jan_wegener]

I am in the same boat waiting to see what happens in terms of prime RF lenses. Yes, would be fun to at least try out that lens and see what it can do!

[@ChristopherCraggAdventure]

Hi Jan, another great video. Would you choose the RF600mm F4 or the RF400mm F2.8 for primarily bird photography but closely followed by wildlife? Would the teleconverters on the 400 be the better choice? Thanks so much

[@ChristopherCraggAdventure]

Shooting on R5

[@jan_wegener]

I personally prefer 600mm for birds

[@ivanolepetersen4645]

I've shoot with the Canon R5 and the RF 100-500 on it. Only downside is the 7,1 at 500mm I wish for a litle more, but in the field I'm so happy with the flexability. IBIS and IS together means no tripod needed, the weight is very low. I now allways bring my camera when walking with my dog in the wood and nature around me. It just hangs in my SpiderPro belt, easy to grab and I allmost forget that its there when not using it. I love to shoot dragonflies and the minimum Focal distance below 1 meter makes the RF 100-500 even more perfect.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that's a great advantage. I will be able to test out that combo soon and will make a video about it.

[@gerards5858]

Great video Jan. Very timely topic for me.

[@jan_wegener]

Great to hear :)

[@andrewkeir2282]

Hi Jan. I currently have a Sigma 150-600C lens on a Canon 90D which I upgraded from a Canon 700D I like your comments about waiting a bit for Canon to stabilise with their lens family. I took your advise with 90D over the 7D Mark ii and I have been very happy with the camera. I am currently retiring and moving to Loch in Gippsland with resident Blue Wrens in the yard. I would like eventually to have a big prime 600 but I think my next purchases will be a decent tripod and gimbal head. I would be interested in your recommendations on these, especially on the gimbal head on the level down from your beast the Wimberley, I have been investigating the Benro GH2 and would appreciate your opinion. Duade suggested the Benro tripods as also being good quality and value.

[@jan_wegener]

Hi Andrew, Glad you like the camera. CanonRumours has released a potential Canon 2021 lens road map that had a lot of great RF lenses on there. SO there will be a lot of changes going forward and many new lenses. I have not bought a tripod in a very long time, so I cannot comment too much on it. Maybe I should do a video a bout a whole bunch of them in the future. I have heard good things about Sirui, too. In terms of price and value

[@chrismurray3890]

Love your videos Jan, have learnt a lot. I’d be very interested in a video on your settings while shooting bird videos. Shutter speed etc.

[@jan_wegener]

I talked a little bit about that in My manual exposure video and the one labelled "don't just shoot wide open"

[@jacobswentzel6849]

Very useful video, thanks Jan. I will appreciate your advice. I am a keen wildlife photographer (but not on pro- level!) in African game reserves. I use my Canon 90D with 100-400 mm II when photographing animals and large birds. It is time to upgrade to full-frame mirrorless. I can't make up my mind which combination would be best for smaller birds and distant animals: Canon R6 with RF 600mm f4 or R5 with RF 400mm f2.8 with 1.4x converter. The latter is fast and good in poor light. Although the image will be smaller than using the 600mm it would be quite cropable at 45MP. Size and weight is no issue as most of the photos will be taken from a vehicle. Which combination would you choose? Thanks for your time Kobus (South Africa)

[@jan_wegener]

Why not R5 and 600?

[@nicholasstone1826]

Just got myself my first lens. Nikkor 200-500. Can't wait to use it.

[@jan_wegener]

Awesome, it's very popular amongst the viewers here!

[@nicholasstone1826]

@@jan_wegener It's here! Ummm, guess I need a gimbal and nicer tripod now.

[@jan_wegener]

@@nicholasstone1826 A lot of people seem to handhold it, but tripod and gimbal is always a good choice

[@stans6582]

Jan, Thanks for the video

[@jan_wegener]

My pleasure!

[@roccorodriguez6653]

Great info thank you. I’m using a Canon SL1 (APS-C) with a Viltrox 2X teleconverter and Canon EF 75-300 F/4-5.6. I have been interested in bird photography for roughly the past year as I live in a well renowned area for birding. I thought I would investigate to see how I could improve the overall image quality of my photos and found your channel. 👍

[@jan_wegener]

Thanks for sharing!

[@williamriach2261]

Thank you this video was very helpful! I am a beginner shooting with a Canon 75-300mm 4-5.6. I I've been pretty happy with my results, but often times the birds are too far away. My style thus far is handheld and flexible. I like to photograph birds and nature. I prefer nice crisp images, but do not want to get ahead of myself. As you mentioned in your video, a 100-400mm , or 150--600mm would be perfect. I've been looking at Tamron and Sigma, but not sure what to go with.

[@jan_wegener]

Of those zooms the 100-400 or Sigma 150-600 will perform best

[@maxdavidson7061]

Thanks for this and other videos. I have been using a Tamron 150-600 mm G2 for some time, now on my Canon R5. I have had some great results but my frustration is in low light situations such as the rainforest I was in the other day. Focussing time is relatively slow and often difficult. Is there a faster lens you might recommend that is still portable for handheld use, but which still has good reach? I appreciate our comments. Max D

[@jan_wegener]

100-500 would do a better job at a smaller size, albeit shorter reach

[@swaroopsankarsivadasan]

Great insights Jan, I currently own Nikon 200-500. Nikkor 400 2.8 was my dream lens because of the obvious reasons you mentioned, but the Nikon 500 PF - 5.6 is really a tempting one.

[@CamillaI]

I have owned both the Nikon 200-500 and the 500pf I wasn't impressed with the pf personally. I would go for the long fixed prime

[@swaroopsankarsivadasan]

@@CamillaI Interesting

[@jan_wegener]

I never tried it myself, but I heard some good things, the main thing being size of course. It would be a great travel lens.

[@jan_wegener]

So many people are using the 200-500 must a great lens!

[@swaroopsankarsivadasan]

To be honest the Nikon 200-500 is the most loved lens by Ameature Nikon Bird/Wildlife photographers. I personally know a lot of people ditching the Tamron and Sigma versions for this. The close focus distance and the VR is remarkable at this price point. Also not to forget its sharper at F8 which is not always the case with the 3rd parties

[@MGrose407]

I’m currently shooting Fuji and I like my 100-400mm lens. It’s sharp and fast for starting out and the 1.4 teleconverter doesn’t take away from it except the stop of light. I hope Fuji makes more primes like a 300 or 500mm in the future, but if I get serious I have no problem adapting the Canon primes.

[@jan_wegener]

nice set up :)

[@benedictpsamuelr]

I am a hobbyist bird photographer and have been following your videos for a couple of years and taken onboard some great advice, like shoot at f8 instead of wide open. I currently use a Sigma 150 to 600 but plan to upgrade to a prime next year. What I wanted to know was does the RF mount 100 to 500 on the R5/R6 gets close to the 600 prime in image quality because that’s one I-am considering for the reasons you outline in the video

[@jan_wegener]

From what I have seen in terms of sharpness the 100-500 is outstanding, but it won't dissolve backgrounds in the same manner a big prime lens does.

[@judeedban1395]

i would like to have a canon 500mm or 600mm for birdwatching here in kota kinabalu Borneo

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, they're great lenses

[@popcornparam]

Currently using the tamaron 150-600 G2. I am eying the RF 500 2.8 coming 2021. But I would love to have a RF 400-800 F4 for under 10,000$ that would be the ultimate sports and bird lens.

[@jan_wegener]

2.8/500 still a bit of a strange lens to me, but I am sure it will be amazing!

[@kiaoraroy]

Hi Jan. Really enjoying your videos thanks! I've stepped through a number of different combos over the last 3 1/2 years just to try different things. Canon/Canon Canon/Sigma Canon/Tamron. Have had the best results from 1Dx with 500 F4, now looking at an R5. I just hope the R5 is as amazing as the (old now!) 1Dx. Am also trying out the M6 ii with 100-400 ii. Seems pretty good too. Keep up the great reviews and tips :)

[@jan_wegener]

Hi Roy, great to hear you are enjoying my content. Yes, 1Dx and 600 are great! I would think that the R5 will feel like a step up from the original 1Dx

[@stacyafong]

Hi Jan, I am a huge fan of your bird photography (as well as your KZbin tutorials). I am in constant awe of your smooth backgrounds! I shoot with two Nikon D850s with all Nikon glass. One body is set up with a 14-24mm for architectural shots and the other has a 200-500mm for wildlife. I have been looking for a lens that will get me even closer to the action. (BTW, I normally use a mono or tripod for my birding.). I have been yearning for the 800mm, but, after watching your video, it makes sense that the 800 may be too limiting (not to mention, ridiculously expensive!). At the very end of your video, even though your go-to is the Canon 600mm, you mentioned the Nikon 500mm prime lens. Are you saying that, if money were no object, you would still chose the 500 over the 600? If so, can you tell me why? (I plan on purchasing the teleconverters, and use them as you do.). I found a refurbished 600 that is less expensive than a new 500. I also read about the 200-600 that is coming out. But, if a prime lens is going to get me backgrounds more like yours, that would be reason enough for me to go with a prime lens! Your thoughts are appreciated! Keep up the great work! Your work is really inspiring! (On another note, I asked you about puzzles, but I don’t think I replied. Liberty puzzles makes amazing wood puzzles. Due to Covid, their production is a little funky. But you may want to reach out to them. I would definitely buy puzzles of your bird shots!)

[@jan_wegener]

Hi Stacy, glad you are enjoying my videos. I shoot some high-end real estate with a 16-35. No, I just meant that the small size would be intriguing. But probably more as an additional lens for traveling. I don't see me not having a 4/600 any time soon. With any lens, you will still need to position yourself well for backgrounds like mine, but a 600 makes it a lot easier because it dissolves objects a lot better. A few people have mentioned puzzles. I shall look into it!

[@simons9952]

Nice one Jan. I also have the 600 f4 prime and I definitely agree with you(also that carrying around that big glass can sometimes be annoying :P). Theres also the TC17 on Nikon Side which is a nice compromise between a bit more reach than the TC14 and still better AF than the TC20. So i already have my dream lens :) recently I got the chance to play around with the 500 pf 5.6 and that is such an awesome lens. Its so incredible light and I was leaning toward it as a walk around lens, but then Nikon put a 200-600 on the roadmap, so I will wait a bit and will decide, when further specs are out.

[@jan_wegener]

Nice set up! With Nikons speed, that will be a long time before one can try it, but 200-600 is a perfect range as a second lens!

[@steentorner6331]

My most used lens is the Canon 500mm f/4L IS II on the 1DX Mark II. But as you mentioned in the video, I also almost always use it with the 1.4 extender. When I bought it a few years ago I decided not to buy the 600mm as it is larger and a bit heavier and I often walk long distances in the forest. Today, I would go for the new 600mm III that is even lighter than my 500mm. However, I am very happy with my present prime and like you I will wait and see what Canon have to offer to their mirrorless within the next few years. By the way - thanks for all your great videos … ; - ) Regards Steen

[@jan_wegener]

That's a great lens! Yes the 600 III is a great lens. Will be interesting to see of we get an even lighter 600 RF

[@DouglasRiversideMoviePictures]

Wieder ein gutes Video von dir. Ich benutze das Canon 400 f5.6 L, das 100-400 L II, und das alte 600 f4 IS L, überwiegend mit der 7DII und der RP. Bis dann mal die R5 bei mir eintrifft. Mein Wunschobjektiv wäre ein leichteres 600mm F4 .

[@jan_wegener]

Danke! Beides super Linsen! Ja, ein leichteres haette ich auch gerne!!

[@SouthTexasVet]

Using a Nikon 200-500 right now and it is great but I find my iso hurting in the morning and evening. 600f4 is the dream and I have really been lurking around the used forums lately watching them. If I can get one for 5k that’s be nice. They’re out there just gotta be patient.

[@SajkovskiDejan]

Hi Jan what is your opinion between these two lenses Sigma AF 150-600MM F / 5-6.3 DG OS HSM (S) and Canon EF 100-400 f / 4.5-5.6L IS II USM, both lenses are with good performance but I'm thinking which is better.

[@jan_wegener]

They're quite different. 400 on the long end can be quite short, especially when it is your only lens. Then again, I always prefer Canon glass over third party. To me for Canon, the 100-500 is the go to now.

[@anitarogers7102]

Great video. I have the Canon 500mm f/4 vII and 600mm f/4 VII. I also have the 100-400mm and generally travel with that but I think I am going to start traveling with the 500mm. It is easier for me to carrier vs the 600mm.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the size and weight can make a difference! Awesome lenses

[@rogersulenski5646]

Graet video, I have a Tamron 150-600 G2 that I use when I want/need to go light but my main lens is a Eos EF 400 f/2.8 and my 1.4 and 2.0 extenders. So that gives me a variety of lens 400 f/2.8, 560 f/4 and a 800 f/5.6. I currently use them on a 5DM4.

[@jan_wegener]

That's a great lens and lovely combo with the Mark IV !

[@thijsskip]

I started off with the 100-400mm mk2 and was fortunate enough to be able to afford upgrading to a 600mm f4 mk3. I put it on a monopod when I walk around in the field, and handhold it for birds in flight for ultimate freedom of movement, mostly with 1.4 extender on there. I will hold on to this lens and dslr until canon releases an RF600 F4 or when I know for sure the mirrorless canon cameras can deliver for my style of photography.

[@jan_wegener]

That must be a great lens! I am currently holding on to my version II 600, hoping there will be an RF 600 at some point soonish. Using the R5 has swayed me towards mirrorless, but I wish there were more native RF wildlife lenses.

[@MehulDave007]

Nice video. I recently got the Canon R5 and have both the 100-500 and the 800 f/11. The 800 is quite sharp but not very good in low light. Even on a cloudy day I have to pump up the ISO to 3200 to get sharp images in spite of the stabilization in both the lens and camera. I find the images coming out of the 100-500 much better. I'm getting the 1.4x and 2x converters to see how the image holds up on the 100-500. I think it might be as good or better than the 800. I've been thinking about getting the EF 600 f/4 but as you say I'm hesitant. I saw in Canon rumors that a RF 500 f/4 with IS might be coming out which with a 1.4x and 2x might work. Trying to decide if I should buy a used EF 600 or wait for the new RF lenses. Any thoughts you have are greatly appreciated. Btw, I used the double back button focus method you shared on one of your videos on the R5 and it works like a charm! Thank you for that very useful tip.

[@jan_wegener]

Glad I could give you some pointers with the R5. Yes, the 100-500 has fantastic image quality and you are mentioning the concerns I have about the 800/11 as well. Hopefully I get to try one soon. RF is the future, so if you invest big money, it probably makes sense to lean towards RF, although I would personally really want a 600.

[@DirkDien]

Great content! I use a D7500 with a Sigma 150-600 C, it's a nice combo to walk around. There is also a 7DII + 300 2.8 IS with a 2xII within my family, seems to be a nice combo to try out, too. Now I'm slowly looking forward what the mirrorless systems are offering, AF on R5/6 looks just impressive! Also very curious about the new Z 200-600 that will hopefully come out soon. So I guess 2021 is going to be a good year for us wildlife lovers.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, there will be a lot of exciting gear coming out!

[@viduras]

I currently use a Canon EF 100-400mm MK II. I use a 1.4x Extender sometimes when I feel I don't have enough reach. I'd like to get a EF 600m F4 someday when I can afford one but the current price is way out of reach for me. I do agree with your comments that 600mm is kind of the sweet spot for birds and I'm contemplating whether to get a Sigma 150-600mm as a result since that's somewhat affordable for me right now. Would like to hear your thoughts about that. I also noticed that you shoot with a 5D Mk IV and was surprised to see that. I was expecting you to use something with higher burst mode FPS. I often feel that 10fps or higher is the idea for birds in flight and wildlife. Your thoughts?

[@jan_wegener]

I am using an R5 now, so I have the higher frame rate. Before I preferred to have more megapixels over speed. Because that was more important to me. Now I can have both on the R5. I think the 100-400 with 1.4x and 150-600 will be kinda smilair and not worth the upgrade. it's only 40mm difference.

[@ruckus57]

Great video! I've been shooting a lot for fun. I've always wanted to get better bird and wildlife pics. After watching your video I think I'm going with the Nikkor 500mm lens for my D750. Would you go with the 17E or 20E teleconverter. It seems like the 20E would be better.

[@jan_wegener]

I don't think the 2x TC will give you great image quality. The 1.4 and maybe 1.7 should be much better

[@MultiDanyael]

Hi Jan My current setup is the Nikon D500 with the Nikon 200-500 and i am saving up for a used Nikon 500mm f/4.0 G AF-S ED VR II it cost about 4800 Euro's :0 Or the new 500mm 5.6 is also a great contender :) greetings form the Netherlands

[@jan_wegener]

Good choice! That 5.6/500 is quite a nice little lens. Your current set up seems to be the most popular one amongst the commenters here

[@davespencer9658]

Another great video! Thanks! I'm still waiting for the Canon R5 and the new 100-500 lens. I'm currently using a Tamron 150-600 but the images are usually a little too soft and not sharp. They are a little better mounted on a gimbal head. Handholding can get very tiring. I'm also interested at checking out the new 600mm and 800mm lens from Canon. I just wished they would have had a little more aperture, like F/4 or 5.6.

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! I agree about the new primes. But I am sure Canon will give us some nice 500,600,800 at some point. The R5 and 100-500 will be a huge upgrade to your current lens.

[@shaunnightingale4976]

Hi Jan great video once again I’m a follower of your videos and find them very interesting and informative , my fave Lenses are the Nikon 300mm 2.8 for birds in flight and the Nikon 500mm f4 but my dream Lens would be the 600mm the 800 would be just to heavy, take care Jan best regards Shaun in the beautiful Isle of Man.

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! :) That's two great lenses you got there Shaun. Hopefully we will see lighter 600mm lenses in the future

[@Methodical2]

I carry both a prime and zoom; 600II+1.4tc (keep 2xtc with me just in case it's needed) with my sidearm...100-400II and 1.4tc. If someone is interested in bird and wildlife photography and on a budget and new to the game, I always suggest they invest as much money as they can in the glass; it's an investment that will outlast the camera body. If they want a prime lens, I suggest no less than 300 mm lens that can take a 1.4tc to get 420mm and can still AF. I also suggest a crop body (1.6) camera so they get more effective reach. There are so many long zoom lenses today that were not available when I got started in 2008 that one really can't go wrong with the choices that are available; it comes down to the individual's budget. With the modern cameras, high ISO is not much of a concern when using a slower lens than when I got started. My suggestions come down to their budget. When I got into bird and wildlife photography, I started out with the Canon 300 f4 IS (still have this wonderful lens) connected to a 1.4tc (400 5.6) and a 50D camera and I worked on my stealth abilities to get closer to the subject. Then the addiction kicked in and I progressed to the Canon 400 5.6, 500 f4 IS and now 600II, some other lenses in between and some newer bodies (1D3, 1D4 etc.). The only zoom I ever used is the Canon 100-400II lens that I purchased in 2018, so it was always primes for me. I would suggest folks hold off buying any of the Canon high priced EF super teles (300-600) at this time and wait to see what RF lenses Canon produces. If they are spectacular lenses, which they always are, those EF lenses prices will drop some because folks will be trying to get rid of them to get the new lenses. If you can be patient, deals can be had. I sold the 500 f4 IS for nearly what I paid.

[@jan_wegener]

Agree with all you said! Good insight!

[@scrptwic]

I recently purchased a new Pentax 50-300 PLM lens super fast autofocus on a crop camera . My old Tamron 75-300 does not get sharp until F-11 but it will work with a full frame camera . My newer Pentax cameras have IBIS so all my lens are stabilized

[@jan_wegener]

Sounds nice, never used one myself.

[@joshuahorner2639]

Thank you for this video. I know you primarily shoot Canon but would ask you about this dilemma, choosing between a Nikon 400 mm f/2.8 lens +/- using a 1.4TC on a DX body vs. shooting with a 600 mm f/4 on a FX specifically with regard to image quality? I mostly shoot in South America in forest canopy and thought the minimum focus would be an advantage of the 400 mm.

[@jan_wegener]

It depends on the size of birds you are shooting. If they're all larger than a duck and you can get relatively close, 500 will be fine. Otherwise I think a 600 will be superior. Especially because you can use higher ISO on the full frame body. Kinda making up for the loss in stops.

[@maurorodrigues4838]

Hi there. Thank you for the videos you've been sharing, very clear and realistic approach. I've just got the R6 and thinking of going to the Sigma 120-300 2.8 to use with the 2x Extender. What's your opinion on it? Thanks a lot and looking for the next video. Cheers

[@jan_wegener]

Thank you! I think using 2x on a zoom lens is always a challenge quality wise.

[@darrelltheriault5793]

Just starting to consider shooting birds and I’m currently using a Canon 100-400 mkii on an R5. I have a 300mm f/2.8 and adding a 2x extender would get me to 600 mm f/5.6 for a relatively low price.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, the 2x could be a good start for that lens. 600mm is a decent start for birds.

[@big-o2412]

I'm shooting with a combination of EOS R5 and EF100-400 + x 1.4 extender. The image quality of this lens feels sharper than that of the Sigma 150-600. In particular, it has the advantage of being able to use the DLO function. Also, when the distance to the wild bird is long, use the crop function of R5. I think the crop function of R5 is an effective function to supplement the focal length.

[@jan_wegener]

Nice set up. The crop function is nice to see the bird bigger in the viewfinder

[@siegfriednoet]

Hey Jan, I have a Canon 600 f4 mk II lens that I own now since it came out, before that I was using a Canon 500mm f4 MkI My dreamlens, hmmm I guess a RF600mm f4 L IS that costs less than half the price of the EF version now and only half the weight (or less) than the EF 600 MkIII version. Or a RF 500mm f2,8 in the same price range and same weight This together with an R1 would be a very good combination

[@jan_wegener]

Hehe! Sign me up for that RF 600, as well! Yes, RF 600 and R1....one can dream hehe

[@rogerbarnett8412]

Maybe someday, but as of today, all RF lenses are kinda pricey, compared to the EF.... that said, I just had to get the RF 70-200 with my new R5..... as I'm keeping my 5D4, 7D 2 and EF extenders, my EF 70-200 will still get use... for those times when I go birding with it for its size..... wonder how long it will be before a 500 2.8 will show up, and how big?

[@jan_wegener]

@@rogerbarnett8412 I still find a 2.8/500 to be a strange lens, but Canon might do it. It would have to be fairly big, especially the front element.

[@quazisanjeed6395]

@@rogerbarnett8412, Sigma already has a 500mm f/2.8 lens that needs a vehicle to carry!

[@patmcanany395]

Great advice. So after my last 2 trips one to Africa and one to Peru I’m convinced that I need to move on from my Sigma 100-400 lens. Whether it was the distance shots or the low light shots many of my pictures were not successful. Especially with birding I’m not stationary. So with my Sony A73 camera you would suggest the 600mm lens? Sony vs. Sigma? Thanks so much. Pat

[@jan_wegener]

For Sony 200-600 is a no brainer

[@fabriziostefani5146]

Hi jan, very useful video. Thanks! I agree with you that 600 mm is probably the best compromise for bird photography. I own an old Canon 7d, a 400 5.6L and other 6 lenses, plus flashes, trigger etc. I would like to improve my gear, and the natural choice would be to stay with Canon and the new mirrorless. Even buying an Eos r5/r6, the RF 100-500 is terribly expensive, and I would not have the possibility to buy a prime 600 at present as well. So, I would probably stay with my 400, or with the 100-400 II and a 1.4x. But... at a bit higher price, I could buy a Sony A9/A7RIV and the 200-600, and change most of my other Canon lenses with a minimal set of equivalent Sony ones (I would not replace, for instance, my beloved fisheye for macro, or my 70-200 f/4 with the same budget). In this case, I would have the 600 mm! Do you feel it will be worth, or would you stay with Canon and take advantage of the power of the R5 with the now complete set of lenses I have? I love bird photography, but I also like wildlife photos in general (images in the context of their environment and habitat), and macro as well. Thanks. Fabrizio

[@jan_wegener]

The Sony seems to be a fine lens. Personally I prefer Canon, but they don't have a great cheap 600mm option other than the F11 lenses, which have been surprisingly good. If you get an R6 for instance you can adapt all your old lenses and still use them

[@mikekrupel]

Great videos as always Jan. I’ve rented the new Canon 600mm prime to shoot some great horned owls that are migrating through Central Park in NY. Lens weight and comfort is great but the f/11 was a killer. Shooting in shadows and trees was bumping the ISO to 8000-12000. Even shooting in open sunlight shadowy areas was a bit painful. Ended up being convinced not to buy it in the end.

[@jan_wegener]

Yes, that's the concern I would have with that lens, too

[@redzone8618]

hi jan what do u think about the sigma 150-600 contemporary is it better than 100-400 mark 1 as in term on image quality ?

[@jan_wegener]

I think it's probably better than that and worse than version II, especially in terms of AF

[@alanalain4884]

Hi Jan, Awesome video as usual, so much valuable information.Thank you for your work and sharing it. I was stopping at 6.50 on your video and I was thinking that it should be mentioned that for minimum focus distance when you walk around with the big guns and want to reduce it, one could use an extension tube, like in macro, when using the lens for walk around, thus narrowing quite a bit (up to several meters) the minimum focusing distance with this configuration. Also, I was wondering what speedlite was on your camera (EX 600 RT or such ?) and more over what kind of super cool diffuser you're using on it. And last, how do you work with the flash at those speeds ? Hi-Speed Sync. must be mandatory, no ? If you have the time, your answer would be very helpful for the flash stuff...

[@jan_wegener]

I have used extension tubes in the past, but wasn't very happy with them. The flash attachment is just a cheap Better beamer, but it does the job :) Yes, High speed for sure. I made a video about flash kzbin.info/www/bejne/fZOalmWZm8ylhsk

[@drferry]

Nikon D850 for its image size and dynamic range. If I can drive there, my Nikon 600 mm f4. If I have to fly there, my Nikon 500 mm PF f5.6. The latter is barely longer than my 70-200 zoom and actually weighs less. It is truly hand-holdable and tack sharp. It has changed the way I do everything.

[@jan_wegener]

That's a great set of lenses for your D850! The 5.6/500 looks like a sweet lens

[@arvindhr9428]

Great video, as I have come to expect from every one of your videos! I chose the 300f4+1.4xII 15 years ago and absolutely love the weight for birding all day. Now I'm in the pursuit of those creamy backgrounds and thinking on the 300 2.8L II and 2xIII on it. That should give me the reach while still being hand-holdable and at about half the cost of a 600f4. Would love your expert feedback!

[@jan_wegener]

not a bad combo, although the 600 has much creamier backgrounds than that combo. But is also much bigger as you say