Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L ii IS USM review | Pros & Cons for wildlife photography

[@TheSafariExpert]

Enrol in Wildlife Photography for Beginners and Amateurs: bit.ly/WildlifePhotographyCourse

[@gino.from.chicago]

Hey could you help me. I’m going to Sabi sands (Kirkman’s) this June. What would you suggest for animals at 0-20 ft or 25-100ft? The 100-400 isII or 24/70 f/2.8? Is one suggested for day or night too? I’m renting this camera so not too familiar with it. I’ll be experimenting prior to my trip, but just trying to get some base recommendations. Thanks a lot! Btw, interested in filming short videos too with the mark iv. Do I need a cf sim card for video recording? 🙏 thank you very much!

[@bossofthemoss450]

I have a Canon 600mm prime, which is amazing, but I have recently bought a second hand 100-400 for its versatility for both wildlife and landscape shooting. Very happy with the quality and performance. 👍

[@brucebrodie7388]

Yes it is a very good lens which also works well on my R5. This combination also gives excellent crop ability for distant birds.

[@TheSafariExpert]

Definitely, Bruce!

[@Zaheer_Ali]

Great watch! Enjoyed it😎👌🏻

[@TheSafariExpert]

Thanks buddy! 🙏🏻😎

[@darrenchandlercoaching]

Have you tried with the 1.4x or 2x converter?

[@stubones]

I've gone from using a 500 f/4 ii and a 1DX to using a 7Dii and a 100-400 ii (don't ask). The combination is better than I expected. Obviously in low light it falls short, but in good light, the quality and flexibility is more than good enough. As far as the max aperture being a limiting factor, that's just down to your bank account. If you want flexibility AND a faster aperture you need to fork out for the 200-400 extender lens.

[@bernardniemand1086]

Thanks Villiers great video. I really enjoyed it. I just got me a 100-400mk2. What would you recommend should my settings on the lens be: Full/3m-♾️ and Stabilizer mode (1, 2 or 3). Thanks🙏

[@TheSafariExpert]

Ah, enjoy! Keep it on Full and 1

[@bernardniemand1086]

@@TheSafariExpert Thanks for the response. Much Appreciated!

[@dzuppi]

If I had to choose one lens, it would be this one. What I also like, you forgot to mention that, is that the closest distance is a mere 98cm. This allows me to use this lens as kind of 'Macro' for small things, like mice, lizards, frogs, flowers etc. from a close distance.

[@jakobmoller9622]

Thanks for your great tips 👍!

[@TheSafariExpert]

My pleasure, Jakob!

[@ClipCaptain]

Appreciate the blunt honesty about the limitations of the zoom lens at the opening of the video

[@stubones]

If one wants the attributes of a prime, then you have to fork out for the far more expensive 200-400 extender lens. Its a case of getting what you pay for so the limitations are not the 100-400 itself, but rather one's bank account.

[@ClipCaptain]

@@stubones Interesting, thanks. At that price, I might just buy a cheap, used truck to go on safari.

[@landmanproductions4342]

Loved this video. I am off to the KNP at the end of the month. Renting a 100-400 Mkii from ODP to be used with my 5Diii. I have the 1.4 Mkii extender. The 5Diii is definitely not as good with higher ISO as the Mkiv. What would you say is the max I can go only shooting in day time. Don't want to lose sharpness too much. Losing stops at the long end is then worrying me too when the extender is on.

[@TheSafariExpert]

Kobus, maybe try not to go higher than 1600. But like I always say - I’d rather have a sharp photo that’s grainy than a blurry one 😏

[@johnmullineux4872]

Great discussion about a great lens. Lightness definitely makes photography more fun with this lens.

[@TheSafariExpert]

For sure, John!

[@-WhizzBang-]

@@TheSafariExpert you feel sad for me? Give me your address, I'll send you some kleenex, cupcake. 🤣

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@-WhizzBang-, you made my day with that comment 😂😂😂

[@-WhizzBang-]

@@TheSafariExpert awe! So that means you are not sad anymore.? Cupcake! I feel better now. 😁

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@-WhizzBang- , you know that all your comments make my video do better, right? 😂🙏🏻

[@neelsfer]

Good review thx Pls do the Sigma 150-600mm Sport

[@TheSafariExpert]

Thanks Neels. I’ll do so when I get my hands on one 📸😎

[@jsdaniel105]

Have this exact lens and heading to Kruger and Chobe in July. Thought about getting a 1.4X converter for little more reach. Thoughts?

[@TheSafariExpert]

Sean, personally I don't putting converters on zoom lenses, but a friend of mine uses that exact combo and swears by it - he's images look pretty sharp to me!

[@jsdaniel105]

@@TheSafariExpert Thanks for input. I thought about renting the Sigma 150-600 before seeing your videos on the 100-400.

[@matthewoakesphotography]

I went from the Canon 400mm f5.6 prime and loved that lens as it was basically perfect for all wildlife shots (only negative was minimum focusing distance and not weather sealed). If 400mm isn't enough for you as a wildlife photographer then you need to either get a teleconverter or pick up your feet and move closer to your subject, enough said. f4 would be better (obviously), but even when I was shooting a lens that can go to f2.8 I would be in the f4 - f5.6 anyways so to me it is perfect as is in that regard. THE ONLY COMPLAINT I HAVE ABOUT THIS LENS IS... that it extends... I like internal zooms, like my 70-200mm f2.8. Seeing how weather sealed this lens is I am not worried about that issue, but in my eyes its annoying to have it externally move back and forth.

[@edwildlife2896]

I have the 100-400mm mark I. Also a lovely versatile lens but would agree that photographing at night with this lens is a bit tricky! Question: what lens would you best recommend for landscapes and astrophotography? Thanks for all the quality content!

[@TheSafariExpert]

My pleasure, ED! I’m glad you’re enjoying it and findind it helpful. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens is ideal for landscape and astro photography and should ideally be used on a full frame camera body. The same lens in the f/4 version is also good and that’s what I use.

[@actie-reactie]

Tamron 15-30 G2 or the sigma 14-24 art

[@edwildlife2896]

@@TheSafariExpert great thanks!

[@prabinkumargr1486]

I have 6dmarkii and planning to buying this lens for good for 6dmarkii any one using ? Thanks

[@deepakpratapgangwar583]

One question can this lens also used for amateur wildlife videography?

[@TheSafariExpert]

Yes, definitely!

[@RamakersRoger]

I had this lens, think it is a good lens for safari, but it is a dust pump, zooming in and out sucks in lots of dust . There for i switched to different lenses. Got now a 300mm 4 prime with two converters. And then a 70-200mm 2.8 on my second body. And a 16-35mm 2.8 for wide angle, not sure if i also bring the 24-105 mm this year, didn't use it last times.

[@vishvajeetsinh_solanki]

please make a video on the distance coverage of zoom lenses on close distance base. i mean, this lens starts covering from 10 mtr? 20 mts? which object is clearly miss at closed distance

[@gabrielbeauprelacombe2268]

Would you choose this lens over the sigma 150-600 contemporary ?

[@TheSafariExpert]

Definitely!

[@markrigg6623]

This lense is on another planet compared to the Sigma. You have to pay extra for the extra performance, but the difference is dramatic.

[@alexplechash7560]

I have an EOS 5D Mk II and a number of Canon L lenses including the EF 100-400 f:4.5-5.6 L IS, EF 16-35 1:2.8 L II, EF 24-105 1:4 L IS USM, and the EF 85 1:1.4 L IS USM. I am planning a photo safari next year (using Travel Beyond which is a great safari trip company in the U.S ) and want to bring an optimal combination of cameras and lenses without carrying too much gear for both field maneuverability and weight considerations. I intend to add a 2nd camera/lens combination to take along so that I won’t have to keep swapping lenses along the way, but I am not yet quite sure what to get. I have pretty much decided on getting a Canon R6 or R5 (maybe an R3 if it comes out soon and the specs are appealing enough) and step into the mirrorless world. I also have my eyes set on the RF 100-500 f:4.5-7.1 L lens but I’m not sure yet. My current thinking is to carry the EOS 5D with my wide angle EF 16-35 mm lens (or my EF 24-105 mm lens) and the R5 with the RF 100-500 mm super telephoto lens. So, given my current kit and Canon’s existing mirrorless camera and lens options, what would you recommend I buy and what combination of gear to take along with me?

[@TheSafariExpert]

I recon that the R5 with the 100-500mm RF will work wonderfully! Having a 24-105mm on a second body also helps. I find that I seldom need anything wider, except if I’m photographing starscapes.

[@alexplechash7560]

@@TheSafariExpert Thank you for the lens selection recommendation. I will plan on using that. Any opinion on the R5 at $3800 vs. the R3 at perhaps $6000 (with a disappointing 24 megapixels) now that the specs have been revealed?

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@alexplechash7560 , I haven’t given it much thought, but to be honest, $6000 seems too much 🙈

[@alexplechash7560]

@@TheSafariExpert I tend to agree. The purportedly excellent weather sealing and ruggedness of the R3 appeals to me but maybe not for such a high premium over the R5 which I understand is very good and better than the R6.

[@markrigg6623]

@@alexplechash7560 You want the extra pixels of the R5 for wildlife, particularly when not using very long lenses like 600mm. R3 would be great if you knew you could fill the frame, so would be enough for large mammals. But if you're into bird photography, get the R5. Or wait for the R1 If money's not a problem.

[@bornufree]

Excellent presentation of a very relevant topic I’m hoping to migrate to a Canon R6 with the 100-500. I think the latter will give us the extra reach I presume you have a second body. If so what lens do you use with that? Keep up the wonderful presentations

[@TheSafariExpert]

Thank you, Born Free. I actually only use one body, the 5D mkIV, at the moment. I do, however, have a 24-105mm with me as well.

[@marcogilissen7443]

Great video and perfect timing. We are off to djuma in august and I have this lens. One question ... I was considering purchasing or renting a canon 2x extender to use with this lens. I appreciate the loss of 2 stops. What are your thoughts around the benefits or not of taking a 2x canon extender along to djuma? Worth it or not much benefit? (FYI I am using a canon 70d)

[@TheSafariExpert]

Great timing indeed! Marco, don’t rent the 2x extender. Rather rent the 1.4x extender, which will ensure that you don’t lose too much light and quality! If you can, get the mkiii. My advice, tough, is that you keep it off when you first leave camp and only put it on when you really need that extra distance.

[@marcogilissen7443]

@@TheSafariExpert thanks for you thoughts. Good advice. I intend to rent it from outdoorphoto based on recommendations in your videos. Is there a way I can do this to ensure you get something out of the rental?

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@marcogilissen7443, just tell them that you’re renting because of The Safari Expert 😉🙏🏻 Much appreciated!

[@dzuppi]

I can second that. This lens works great with the 1.4x extender, but looses with the 2x extender IMO too much image quality, you better off cropping.

[@CDOOMED]

in my experience with this lens and extenders, I wouldn't use them and I'll tell you why, first the extender is going to cost you shutter speed which when you may be starting at 5.6, that can be an issue in anything but the brightest of conditions, second, more pieces of glass is going to cost you sharpness and when coupled with slower shutter speeds makes shooting tack sharp that much more difficult to do without a tripod. IMO, this lens is pretty sharp on its own and I have found better results without the extender and cropping in to get the result I need.

[@PotatoeChipz]

Thank you for naming the downsides to the lens because the specifications didn't make sense on paper. Took me 5 years to save and was just about to take the dive, but fortunately held back because I'd prefer to shoot the majority of wildlife in the middle of the night and would need that creamy bokeh 800m away because night predators are risky to encroach upon. Based on my previous savings strategy, I should be able to afford Canon's 400 f2.8L in just shy of 20 years. By which time I'll be around 90 years old with unfortunately no photography experience because the 100-400 was supposed to be my first lens to learn. Nonetheless, I'm glad I'm waiting for a more versatile lens like a prime lens. And come to think of it, I forgot to save for a camera body. Man, tack on another 6 years of savings for the 5d mark iv and I'll be set to go. I'll throw an update when I've achieved my goal and thank you once again!

[@imogenhawkins1006]

Has anyone used the canon 90D with this lens? Looking to start taking wildlife and nature photography and have no idea where to start. Help appreciated 🙂

[@TheSafariExpert]

The 90D paired with a Canon 100-400mm II is an excellent combo for wildlife.

[@imogenhawkins1006]

@@TheSafariExpert thank you! Love your videos

[@markrigg6623]

YesI have that combo and its outstanding. The 90D has an absolutely astounding sensor that's gone under everyone's radar a bit. It just gives so much reach, it's pixel density equates to 80 odd mpx if it was upsized to full frame. Its my favourite sensor of all time, and I shoot Sony as well. The focus system in the 90D is unfortunately not to the standard of the 7DMKII, but its only an issue doing birds in flight. The 90D is an outstanding camera, and the image quality with the 100 -400 mkii is beyond reproach for an apsc set-up. I wish Canon would release a mirrorless with that sensor.

[@imogenhawkins1006]

@@markrigg6623 thank you for the advice!

[@markrigg6623]

@@imogenhawkins1006 No worries Imogen. It's a great setuo.

[@vishvajeetsinh_solanki]

i need to go in safari in india and I'm afraid that I'll miss the close distance actions in 100-400 specially with crop sensor cameras.

[@nickblyth166]

I was gonna get that lens but got the sigma 150-600 instead, that way I get the light weight and convenience of a zoom and the 600mm zoom. I tend to switch between a 6D Mk2 and EM1X so I can either shoot at 150-600 or 300-1200

[@Thegibbonshouse]

How do you find the sigma? Apparently its images are soft after 550 zoom?

[@stubones]

I use a 7dII AND THE 100-400 ii. Very good combination in good light and plenty of "reach". The equivalent of easily handholding a 640mm field of view set up is pure gold.

[@ahmedbebars6844]

So does that mean I'm better off selling my Canon 70D, getting a used 5D Mark IV instead, then slapping a used 100-400 II on it? I'm primarily shooting birds in flight with a pathetic 55-250mm lens

[@TheSafariExpert]

Don’t sell your 70D, but do replace your 55-250mm! If you can get a good second-hand 100-400mm II, buy it for sure.

[@miguelnunez2415]

@@TheSafariExpert hey would this lens work for the canon eos rebel t7

[@zvmore8061]

so... this lense does not go to 4.5 on the eosr5 with adapter.... has anyone try this?

[@hasthikaellepola9232]

👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻

[@mattdamarell]

if only there were more ads...

[@actie-reactie]

I really dont understand why people are using a full frame if you need the extra reach.... at events I am using my 5DIII... shooting in nature when I need the extra reach, I use my 90D with 32.5 mp packed on a crop sensor....it gives me that blurry background and the possibility to crop big time.... the 5DIII i take with me together with my tamron 15-30 g2 for landscape.... but for reach, there is no better option than a high mp crop sensor.... I think.....😄😉 one more thing to add....light?? Did you ever use the tamron 100-400??? I own both.... the tamron 100-400 and the canon 100-400 II.... I am really not seeing any difference in IQ.... and as we speak of a light lens....try it...rent it.... you will be amazed.....

[@TheSafariExpert]

Richard, I prefer the full frame in the Sabi Sands because that allows me to shoot at 100mm on the 100-400mm - I love those wider shots. The image quality and focus speed is also significantly higher and faster than the 90D or 7Dii. I have not used the Tamron 100-400 yet.

[@actie-reactie]

@@TheSafariExpert I partly agree... yes a full frame has a slight adventage in IQ ...but as you said yourself, the bokeh isnt that great .... thanks to the 1.6 cropsensor you can zoom in more en therefore have a better bokeh background..... the AF you have a point, but when I look at most of your pics, there is no need for fast AF because of lack of fast action..... and the AF isnt bad at all on the 90D.... even caught a fly in flight...... 😄.... and croppossibilities are amazing...... and as it goes for noise.... topaz denoise does wonders 😉 thanks for the vid! If you ever in the possibility....rent the tamron 100-400 and do a direct comparisson against the canon... it looks you are carrying around half the weight, especially in combination with the 90D

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@actie-reactie, I used a 90D with the 100-400 for a short while and it wasn’t so much the image quality or even focus speed that bothered me, but rather the minimum focal length of 160mm like I mentioned - for me, that’s too tight, at least in the Sabi Sands. Having said that, the 90D combined with a 100-400mm zoom lens is a killer combo! 😎💪🏻

[@Mr09260]

Full Fame is far better than Crop >. I went back to D500 (Crop) a few years ago but was soon back in Full Frame D850 >. What a Image quality difference >> Just get closer or learn to take environmentally pleasing Wild Life Shots with Full Frame>> I use a Nikon Z7 Full Frame Mirrorless with an outstanding 70-200 Nikon S f2.8 lens and a 1.4 x convertor >> gives me 280mm f4 and if I need closer > I have 45.7 M Pixels to crop away >> I have moved away from my old Nikon 500 f4 etc etc and am really enjoying getting prides of lion etc in at shorter but the Best Image quality out there with the Z mount and best in class S lenses. Dont go and get the Canon Mirrorless RF 70-200 f2.8 as its useless as a Wild Life lens DOES NOT Take a Convertor at all >> useless gimmick IMO Nikon are also bringing out a Mirrorless 100 -400 later this year for Mirrorless I hear which if like past S Lenses so far will yet again be best in class all brands taken into account>> At my 7 decades of age I now take less machine gun bursts and take the scene rather than the sex of a tick up a Buffaloes nose Lol

[@oo0Spyder0oo]

You don’t understand crop sensors. They don’t zoom in any more than a full frame sensor, all they do is trim away the view you would see on 35mm as you would get on a full frame and show you less of the scene. It just looks like you have more zoom, if you get a full frame pic and crop it you have the same view. In fact due to the full frame sensor being better with light and noise etc you are better off cropping a full frame photo for the same result. But no, you don’t get extra zoom with a crop sensor, that’s just how it sounds and is misleading.

[@jimbird963]

My system 7d2 100x400mkii amazing setup almost macro anything within a 100 yards is doable you can ck out my images for proof jmbirdphotography IG

[@TheSafariExpert]

Awesome 😎📸

[@Jerry23555]

Gift me the lens

[@tridentroy]

Pls used c 90d pls🥴🤣🤣🤣🤣

[@parsapourzargham9349]

its funny to me when I see "professional" photographers review lenses like this! saying obvious things like it lets less light in than a prime lens, looks like someone saying a hamburger tastes more like meet than a cabbage!

[@TheSafariExpert]

@@parsapourzargham9349, it’s funny to me when people think professional photographers don’t use zoom lenses like this, and even funnier when they leave snotty comments rather than constructive critisism. This post says a whole lot more about you than it does about me 😏

[@sudhirkalapala]

@@TheSafariExpertnice come back. Someday I want to be articulate like you.