Canon RF200-800mm For Wildlife - First Impressions

I field test Canons RF200-800mm lens and share loads of photos showing what is possible with this lens. Can you take nice shots at f/9? You bet you can! I had loads of fun testing the lens and I hope you enjoy, Cheers, Duade
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Chapters
00:00 Canon RF200-800 f/9
01:12 Winton Wetlands
02:59 Warby Ranges
09:46 Strengths & Weaknesses
16:58 Final Thoughts
16:36 Conclusion
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[@joanhuggett5164]

After your review, 'we would be bonkers' not to buy this lens. With this reach plus 45MP of the R5 we would be in birding heaven. That Little Eagle shot blew us away. Your processing is perfect, Duade. Really can't thank you enough for everything you do.

[@Duade]

Thanks Joan, yes, it works very well on the R5 and makes those subject much bigger. It is not quite as sharp as the 100-500 in that range and is heavier but lots of fun for the small birds out there. Cheers, Duade

[@harrison00xXx]

Yeah, its universal for birding with 200-800mm, but i would have rather preferred a 400-800 F5.6-7.1 or similar with the same weight or a 400-800 with constant F8 but like 400g less and even more focussed on sharpness and image quality. Anyways, it seems amazing if weight isnt a concern, as a RF 800 F11 and Sigma 150-600C user its pretty hard to decide if i should sell both for a single 200-800 or keep those lenses with their specific advantages (800 F11 weight/size and stabiliser for handheld only usage, Sigma faster aperture but big/heavy and tripod needed for smooth video)

[@Duade]

Yes, a tough choice for sure, all lenses have their advantages and disadvantages that is for sure. Good luck, Cheers, Duade@@harrison00xXx

[@steffenrosmus9177]

I got the lens now since Dec 23rd on my R 5 and the resulsts are flabbergasting. Ideal for travelling abroad, no hassle with airlines ( United, Brexit Airways ) wanting you to to buy an extra ticket or your bulky 800mm lens case. The image quality is superb and handling is easy.

[@jimmyscott7414]

Been watching your videos for a couple of years and just had to say that I love the way you show the original raw image and then the crop and edited version. Really helps a beginner like me see what’s possible

[@Duade]

G'day Jimmy, it is my pleasure and a great learning tool for sure, Cheers, Duade

[@robertburnett8686]

Great video, Thanks..... I'd be interested to hear how the 200-800 compares with the 100-500 + 1.4tc..

[@peterebel7899]

What a great European winter morning: Great Aussie guys shooting magnificent Australian birdlife!

[@Duade]

I am happy to hear it has made your morning, Cheers ,Duade

[@antonoat]

Many fabulous images Duade, can sense your enthusiasm for this new piece of glass!

[@josephjackson7351]

Great informative video. Now I can’t wait to get my hands on the one I have on order. Keep them coming, Duade, look forward to your next one.

[@epsonc882009]

Thank you for Duade. Your review is fantastic as always, right to the point, a lot of people would be appreciated.

[@terrysmith810]

Many thanks Duade. This is what I have been waiting for.

[@henrysteadman963]

You are such a generous KZbinr Duade, and your enthusiam is infectious 👍

[@Duade]

Thanks for the feedback, I apprecaite it, Cheers, Duade

[@seltunkoko]

You made an excellent choice with that lens! Its quality is truly impressive and I'm confident you'll keep loving it for a long time. Enjoy capturing those stunning shots!

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, lots of fun so far, Cheers, Duade

[@cathco9]

Thank you, Duade. I can hear the enthusiasm in your voice. I'm looking forward to further reviews by both you and Jan. I'm glad you both used the R5 and R7 for testing. I have both cameras. I'm hoping you also tried out the lens with the 1.4x extender. This review is the one I've been waiting for.

[@cystopus]

Thanks Duade. A wealth of information that helps to decide on some photo gears to add for the wildlife adventure.

[@ladyethyme]

Yay! I've been looking forward to this review🖤🖤

[@Duade]

Thanks, working on the full review now, but the first impressions was fun. Cheers, Duade

[@liamminerYT]

Your videos are so relaxing - I really appreciate your perspective and presence, just you enjoying the nature and trying to get good photos.

[@Duade]

Thank you so much!

[@mikem922]

Duade I have never seen you quite so animated so initial testing signs are very promising! Wonderful background blur at f9 esp with the crop factor of the R7 factored in. The sharpness and detail were clearly evident as was the flexibility and relative ease of use of the lens. Some stunning shots including the bird silhouettes. Light in NZ during winter months would be an issue I guess. Looking forward to more detailed analysis to come from you as time allows and I really wonder where this leaves the 100-500 lens.

[@tonyfluertynaturephotograp5272]

You reckon the light is bad in NZ you should try Northern Ireland lol I've been here 3 years and the light back home in New Zealand leaves this place for dead. However I have been using the 100-500 with the 1.4x converter on the R5. DXO pure raw becomes your best mate when you have to work with high F stops.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mike, the 100-500 is in a class of its own to be honest, as a shorter zoom it cannot be beaten. It's only weakness is the reach and that is where the 200-800 shines. I will use both but the 100-500 will always be used for macro, landscape, large subjects, tame subjects etc. I will only use the 200-800 when reach is an issue. Cheers, Duade

[@wcsdiaries]

How do you denoise your photos in post? They look so clean and beautiful...great work! @@Duade

[@Duade]

G'day a combination of Lightrooms new denoise AI and Topaz Denoise. Cheers, Duade

[@johnbrotherton4382]

Hi Mr Paton, I have a question. I don’t get lenses to often. They are after all expensive. Here in the United States, the rf 100-500 is only 200 dollars more then the rf 200-800. If I bought only 1 lens, what do you think would be my best bet.

[@nahpungnome]

I expected nothing less from this video. Always a pleasure watching your videos, Duade!

[@PhilThach]

Great work as always Duade. I've been really enjoying mine. You make a great point about the missing manual focus ring. I haven't run into a situation in several outings where I've needed to bump the manual focus ring to help the camera out but I'm sure I will. I was surprised when I tried it with the 1.4x extender. It's a rockstar at f/13! LOL

[@Duade]

Great to know Phil, yes, a nice lens for sure, I have not tried the 1.4 yet, but will soon. Cheers, Duade

[@9monchy9]

Thank you Duade for your comprehensive and objective review of this magnificent lens! Also, a big thank you for all the videos you've posted throughout 2023! I always find them very informative, honest and love the scenery on your property! I would like to wish you a healthy, prosperous and Happy New Year 2024! Cheers from New Brunswick, Canada!

[@Duade]

It is my pleasure and thanks for the support, I appreciate it. Cheers, DUade

[@user-pi4yi8fb9x]

Thanks Duade I was waiting for your review. Thanks again from the bottom of my heart. HI Marzio

[@Syllage]

Merci beaucoup Duade. Vos vidéos sont toujours aussi agréables et remplies d’informations utiles 😊.

[@potayto-potahto881]

Haven't even seen the video yet and dropping a like and comment. Been waiting for this since the lens was announced. Can't wait!!!!

[@bjrn-einarnilsen687]

Finally one of the videos i was waiting for. You and Jan are the main channels i look at to get input about new equipment. So far it looks very good this lens, so i believe that this will be my next lens. Looking very much forward to your full review on this. Wishing you a great week mate, with a lot of wonderful photos. Cheers, Bjoern

[@Geophoto63]

100% agree. I was waiting for them to do their review

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, good so far, the only other weakness I didnt mention as we have only really discovered the lack of coatings on the lens can lead to some fringing and blown whites in bright perches or lighting. I will be sure to show this in the review. Cheers, Duade

[@bjrn-einarnilsen687]

@@Duade As long as you are aware of it, i guess it's possible to "work around it" Thanks for the info, and have a great week. Cheers, Bjoern

[@JevgeniFil]

Duade, thank you for sharing your experience and photos! Trully an amazing and somewhat affordable lens!

[@Madbirdlady]

Can’t wait for mine, it’s on order. Thanks for calming my slight reservations

[@KalliatTValsaraj]

Thank you so much for this excellent review. I just got the lens and hope to use it soon.

[@Duade]

Have fun with it, let me know how you go. Cheers, Duade

[@chantaljacques7664]

Thanks Duade! Useful review! I would be tempted enough to give it a test drive!

[@thomashusser9391]

I was excited to see your review on this lens. I use the R5 with the RF100-500. That combo is SO awesome. I have no intention of moving away from the RF 100-500, but there are situations for me that the extra reach of this new lens could get a shot that the RF 100-500 can't. Your videos are always very informative and well done. You bring out the good and the bad. And you back your comments with pics. Again, well done! Your video has given me the confidence to move forward with purchasing this lens.

[@albinmathew2353]

Love the way you presented this field test. Nice image quality and details and about the weaknesses there is nothing like a perfect lens. Every lens has its own negatives and positives. Am really excited to receive my pre order and can't wait to play around with this beast 😄

[@Squeezesify]

Excellent preview! It is really nice that you show the RAW files. I am looking forward to this Lens. Merry Christmas, Duade! Jan from Denmark.

[@Duade]

Happy holidays!

[@torftee2235]

Thanks Duade once more for the very good video! I agree with your results after 2 days of owning the lens (only R7)

[@FlannelFlyer]

This is my dream lens for plane spotting and I can't wait for the comparison video! Thank You!

[@kevindiossi]

So pumped!!! Using mine for the first time today. Lovely images!!

[@Duade]

Congrats, let me know how you get on. Cheers, Duade

[@martinhommel9967]

Thanks for your thoughts. Lots to ponder.

[@robertpapps3618]

Thanks Duade, great review!

[@kcopen]

Really great video, also want to agree that showing the RAW and the crop is really great. Was already following Jan but added your channel too. Very intrigued by this lens!

[@Duade]

Awesome, thank you!

[@stephencooper5155]

I'd be really interested to see a comparison between the R5 with the 200-800 and the R7 with the 100-500 because it's the same reach. F9 is very very dark for European dusks/dawns especially in winter.

[@michaeljohannsen4872]

+1

[@barryedwards5350]

I would have the same question.

[@maxidrivemaxidrive4330]

Not the same reach if we use it with he R7.

[@brentj7564]

very interested in this comparison as well.

[@adamrubinstein1479]

It’s one of the reasons, I would never purchase this lens. There are many days here where shooting at even f/5.6 yields unacceptable TV for BIF.

[@rinksyd]

Thanks so much for the review. Great info. I am still waiting on mine to arrive and am now even more impatient than before.

[@Twobarpsi]

I have been waiting for this video review!! Excellent Duade!

[@Twobarpsi]

I found Jan's channel because of you! I love both channels!!

[@Twobarpsi]

I paid more for my 70-200 2.8 L III EF lens, than this 200-800 RF!!

[@Duade]

Thanks, first impressions are good, working on review now. Cheers, Duade

[@ericwashburn6017]

As usual, an excellent and objective review. Thanks very much.

[@blairblankinship4521]

great review and thanks again for showing the raw images and then the processed images.

[@djack4125]

Anxious to see a detailed comparison of the AF performance of the 200-800 vs the 100-500 with a 1.4x. Congrats on your new lens!

[@marximus4]

Great first impressions! I can't wait to get my hands on this lens.

[@adobongadobe]

That yellow Robin really popped! I was looking forward to your video and now it's here!

[@Jessehermansonphotography]

Great review Duade!

[@philipgowdy]

Excellent review, as always I really enjoy the fact you show us the images to go with the facts, I am tired of reviewers who just talk the talk, You and Jan are the best, I wish we had your Ozy light here in the Uk. Here its that time of the year of short, grey days. Will be interesting to see a review in dull conditions. Will you be trying to shoot this lens with a teleconverter and a direct comparison with the Sony 200-600 with 1x4 would be very interesting. Please keep up your excellent work..many regards.

[@drewmenges8430]

Thanks for the review!

[@msyuan1124]

Another great video, Duade. You can talk specs all day, but the evident joy in your voice is all you really need to know. What more could you ask for than having this lens bring you so much fun? For my preferred style of photos, though, I’m not convinced this lens is for me, as I tend to shoot very early or very late in the day, so my go-to lens is still the 400 f2.8. Happy holidays, Duade.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, not a replacement for the fast primes in terms of IQ, it is just a fun alternative lens that will make plenty of people happy. I am just glad we now have lots of options on RF for wildlife. Cheers, Duade

[@roxanaandreozzi5588]

I love the way you explain. Very easy to understand 👏👏👏

[@davet3530]

Thanks Duade, really helpful and informative. I look forward to the full review. I have a hunch that the tightness of the lens and associated control ring will loosen over time. It certainly did on mu EF100-400 and I have noticed that my RF 100-500 isn’t as tight as when I first got it.

[@wildphil]

Nice initial impressions, Duade! Great to hear you're overall chuffed tk bits with it so far. I've got it on pre-order in the UK from the same day it launched, but unfortunately, it hasn't arrived yet - I can't wait! 😂

[@Arthur_My_Dear]

Jan and Duade - the A Team. 2 of my 3 subbed photography channels. So grateful for your efforts. Merry Christmas Du(a)de 😊

[@nordic5490]

What is your 3rd ?

[@Arthur_My_Dear]

@@nordic5490 You might be surprised - The Photographic Eye. I check in on Steve Perry and Wild Alaska from time to time.

[@Duade]

Happy holidays!

[@tdunster2011]

Great value lens. The fact it can focus on a subject at 3.3metres away when using an 800mm focal length is very impressive at this price point.

[@gregorytortissier5518]

As usual, nice video, beautiful background with Australian nature beauty and the shots you got are very pleasing, always happy to watch your videos, motivating and refreshing :) cheers

[@Duade]

Thanks Gregory, glad you enjoyed it, Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, glad you enjoyed it, Cheers, Duade

[@WernerBirdNature]

G'day Duade, your body language says a lot, and these first shots are amazing. I intended to wait for ordering this lens until both you and Jan posted your reviews, but after seeing your video I can no longer resist 😀 After all, I did see Jan in your review, and I don't expect him to call this lens a piece junk ..

[@bobcat65a]

Duade, Thanks for presenting your excellent review video of the Canon RF200-800mm. A bunch of your USA followers have been awaiting your real life wildlife and evaluation of the 200-800mm. Eagerly awaiting the video from Jan Wegener. Best to you and yours.🦜

[@Duade]

Thanks, first impression is good but some interesting things we noticed that will be discussed in the full review. Cheers, Duade

[@pauldarville3843]

Thanks, great video!!

[@lowertheshield]

Great review. For us photographers who already have RF 100-500mm, a shot for shot comparison of that lens with 1.4 teleconverter to the RF 200-800 would be really helpful. Looks like the this lens is significantly heavier than the RF 100-500.

[@alanm.4298]

Lens for lens, the RF 200-800 is heavier at 4.5 lb., compared to the RF 100-500's 3 lb. However, if you add a 1.4x to the 100-500 to have the same "reach", the difference will be a little more than 1 lb. (plus the 100-500 & 1.4x combo will be slightly dimmer at 800mm: f/10 rather than f/9).

[@marktaylor9579]

@@alanm.4298 But - the RF 100-500 with the 1.4x only goes to 700mm @ f/10, presumably a typo?

[@alanm.4298]

@@marktaylor9579 You're correct. My mistake. The 100-500 becomes a 140-700 with the 1.4x added, and goes from f/7.1 @ 500mm to f/10 @ 700mm.

[@marktaylor9579]

@@alanm.4298 You're welcome 🙂. The extender does also extend the minimum focal length to 420 as it can't be attached unless the base lens is extended to 300mm first. So it's either 100-500 or 420-700 @f/10 with extender. Personally I find the 420 -700 range a bit of a bind as when larger birds approach I can't zoom back to (say) 300mm.

[@Duade]

Thanks, I will be sure to compare with that setup, yes, much heavier for sure. Cheers, Duade

[@rodgerb2416]

Hi Duade! I got my 200-800 last Friday and used it over the weekend on my R5. I'm really impressed with it!

[@JARofEMUS]

Best review of this lens yet. Definitely on the wish list.

[@bendews]

A little late to this video even though I have been really looking forward to see you with this lens! Loved your review Duade, your excitement is contagious! Some amazing shots you have taken, they absolutely blew me away. This may be the push I needed to get off the M system and in to RF, those results speak for themselves.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, for its price it has lots of things to like, it is not perfect and has weaknesses but I can see it being a very popular lens for birding, Cheers, Duade

[@marcushellyer6502]

I got mine already. Very happy with the image quality (on R6 and R7). I don't really notice much of a size/weight difference from the RF100-500, particular when it has an extender. It's really fun to go from 200 to 800. Yes, the tripod mount is a pain. Did very well on wetland birds. Am looking forward to trying it out on some shorebirds over Christmas holidays. I suspect there are going to be a lot of RF800 f/11 lens on the second hand market now (including mine)....

[@jayengee]

The ones who can't afford the RF200-800MM will be itching to get their hands on the RF800 f11 we trade in I guess. I've been really pleased with mine bar the lack of weather sealing. I can't wait to get mine and head up to the Farne Islands hopefully before we sell our house and move too far away to get there easily.

[@Chris_Wolfgram]

Excellent video Duade 🙂👍 Those images looked fantastic ! Just from a personal standpoint, none of the negatives you listed will likely ever be a problem for me. And coming from the 800 F11, which I absolutely love, I don't think being a little "faster" at F9 is going to hurt me either 🙂 I was still really on the fence about just buying another 800 F11... But more and more, it's looking like I'll end up buying this lens instead. I'll know for sure after getting my rental next week though. Thanks again for the excellent video ! 🙂👍

[@Duade]

Thanks Chris, it is a wonderful lens coming from the 800 f11, I think you will love it. Cheers, DUade

[@Robinshahidullah]

❤❤❤ the places are beautiful...and seeing you two together is another thing that I love, obviously I will see Jan's comparisons and thank you for this video...wish to meet with you two someday and have a session together...❤

[@mjchayphotography]

You're making me regret not preordering this lens now 😂. Great images and info Duade. I'm definitely looking forward to your full review and lens comparisons.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, it is tricky, there are pros and cons and some other things I did not mention in this video. I will be sure to be thorough in the review. Cheers, Duade

[@richardwood8815]

Love your work.

[@Aleriom]

Like you enjoyment is key for me. Stunning shots. Even on a cold grey winter’s day in the UK the extra reach would have helped with the local Red Kites and even the elusive Goldcrest. Thanks again for your passion.

[@Gaztography]

Morning Duade, very interesting video , and some fantastic images you got, such wonderful diversity in wildlife. The lens looks great I must admit, I’m just worried that F9 is pushing that ISO up, we get a lot of bad light days here in the UK. However what other options is there for Canon shooters! Again Canon are pushing that compromise on us. Good to see you back with that sparkle Duade. Looking forward to hearing more about this lens. Gary

[@stephencooper5155]

The 100-500 on an R7 would be a bit more light with the same reach. There's even a used EF 500 F4.5 on MPB that would give the same reach and a tonne more light on an R7 with EF-RF adapter. We have to get creative in the UK with our light situation! ha!

[@Gaztography]

@@stephencooper5155 yeah unfortunately 😃 looking at the weather it’s poor for a while now. I use a 600 F11 and find you just end up pushing the ISO way too high for the stutter speeds you ideally want for BIF. Great when it’s nice and sunny. F9 is better but the 6.3 on the Sigma is better again, albeit you lose 200mm. It’s good to see Canon trying new things and modern cameras are much better with ISO. I’m going to watch a few more videos from this direction to see what the verdict is.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, always a comprimise, I think for us in the lucky country with plenty of light it is not so much an issue, but in low light it will always push that ISO up. So it is a big trade off isnt it. Crop in on 600 6.3 or go up a stop of ISO at 800 f9, actually I will try that in the review, thanks for the idea. Cheers, Duade

[@andrewbalcombe1338]

Fantastic review thanks Duade. It would be good to see it used in forest environments or where backgrounds are closer and busier. All the best! Enjoy your Christmas present to yourself 🙂

[@Duade]

Thanks Andrew, I will do my best to find some low light but being summer down here its almost sunlight every day. Cheers, Duade

[@andrewbalcombe1338]

No worries at all Duade. All the best for a great Christmas!@@Duade

[@davidstowephotography]

Love the vid mate. So great to see you so excited! Really appreciate your thoughts 👍🙏

[@Duade]

Thanks mate!

[@user-kw5fz3bi9h]

thank you for useful information!

[@Harry-bh5dg]

G,Day, great vid, love the pics you've taken with the lens, shows how far I still need to progress, for me living in the uk and not as a rule not having such good light makes the f9 a bit disappointing, however I'll get my birding skills to a much higher level before I make my final decision as it maybe a tripod etc maybe the answer to have the extra reach, I look forward to seeing what you think when you have had it for a while.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, lots more testing to do. Cheers, Duade

[@utubify100]

Nicely done, Duade! Thank you again for the quality content. Congrats on the new lens & glad it looks like a keeper. Definitely, several high quality shots you shared with excellent technique, as usual. I pulled the trigger on one, but still backordered after 6+ wks. Should be interesting on the R7 for those long reach scenarios. Looking forward to putting it through it's paces. I often shoot my EF 100-400mm ii @ F9 with the ext., so don't think this lens @ F9 should be an issue most of the time. Hope you are well, enjoying summer there & had great holidays. All the best on future outings & have a nice time breaking in the new gear. Best regards ~ Chris

[@Duade]

Thanks Chris, you will absolutely love this lens I am sure, if you are used to shooting at f9 you know exactly the settings you will be using. Having 800mm without TC is a huge benefit and having that extra reach comes in very helpful. Have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@davepastern]

Gonna go watch now!

[@PhotoGearFun]

Thanks so much for the video! I have mine on order but it may be a bit before I get it. Seems like a great lens for birding. As usual you made some amazing images. Cheers.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, sorry about the delay, I look forward to doing the review, lots to cover. Cheers, Duade

[@PhotoGearFun]

@@Duade I look forward to it!

[@rockutron9000]

You nailed my concerns, but at this price point, and for what it offers I'm really excited to get this lens at some point in the coming year as I try to get more serious about wildlife photography.

[@benoutside7593]

Thank you! Not planning on buying the lens anytime soon, but the variable zoom range would be nice. I used the Rf 100-400 and Rf 800. I tend to use the 800 more, but at times it is just too long. Would be nice to able to adjust the composition to better fit all of my subjects in it. Looking forward to seeing you work with the lens more. Beautiful images! I always enjoy seeing what you are able to capture regardless of the camera or lens.

[@Harry-tm2bt]

Thanks Duade for showing the bad bits as well as the good, before dropping two grand. Getting mine in a few weeks after watching your video. Merry Christmas.

[@Duade]

Hope you enjoy it!

[@shaner3454]

Very interested how this lens compares to the 100-500, both with and without a 1.4x teleconverter. Are there any compelling reasons for those who already own this combination to consider switching?

[@davegoldberg1874]

FWIW, I decided to go with the 100-500 because its lower weight makes it far easier to handhold, plus the 3 foot minimum focus distance makes it possible to shoot insects and other smaller subjects without changing lenses. Plus, the lower 100mm focal length is useful if I want to snap off a few portraits or landscapes. That may or may not be important to you, but those were the key differences that pointed me to the more expensive lens.

[@Duade]

A very good question that I will try to answer in the review, I think owners of the 100-500 have the hardest choice to make. If I personally had to choose one lens it would be the 100-500 as it is just such a good lens for its focal length. Now if you have the funds available I will use both lenses, the 100-500 without TC is perfect for macro, landscape, big mammals, tame birds etc. But when I need reach I will go with the 200-800, I think that is more versatile than 420-700 f/10. Cheers, Duade

[@RussellStewart]

@@Duade Thanks Duade, I have the 100-500 with 1.4x and I am leaning towards adding the 200-800. I pretty much shoot my existing combo at max FL all the time with an R7, so there are advantages with the 200-800 I think. I bought the R7 to fill time while I await the R1, so it looks like 2024 is going to be expensive for me. Ah well. it's only money.

[@steffenrosmus9177]

Tested bothmon a R 5 and image qualility is quite identical with 200- 800 showing a more soft and even Bokeh than the 100 - 500 with 1,4 converter .

[@Duade]

Thanks Russell, I think they are two different lenses for sure, I will use the 100-500 for that focal range as its very sharp and excellent for that. For reach I think the 200-800 has that advantage and you should be able to get wonderful shots. Yes, the R5II is also coming so an expensive year. Cheers, Duade@@RussellStewart

[@jefferyrobbins3468]

Your prelim, independent review (well done) is great news and very encouraging. Thanks for sharing so quickly, and some great images too! Loved the raptor photo. I've been hoping for a Canon lens like this for several years now, and jealous of Sony and Nikon users. I really fell in love with that 800mm focal length after using the RF 800f11 prime but that fixed focal length really limits composition at times, and this 2-8 lens will be faster with its max f9 aperture. The 2-8 flexibility and reach is well worth the small amount of added hand hold weight IMO. I'm not bothered by the max f9 aperture either -- nearly equivalent to a 600mm f6.3 lens with a 1.4 teleconverter added. I'm quite excited that Canon has provided a zoom lens out to 800mm, rather than designing a zoom to 600mm that would require a teleconverter to put on and off in order to reach that long focal length required for some shots. Those that need both reach and speed in a zoom can look forward to Canon's 2-5 f4, albeit at a predictable, (shocking) steep price. I look forward to your final review, and Jan's, and have been holding off on purchasing this lens until the 2 of you had a chance to review it. Kind regards.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, promising so far and I like it compared to the 800 f11, it is not an L lens and we have both noticed a few things that will be covered in the review, one very interesting observation regarding bright whites and dynamic range possibly due to the lack of coatings on the glass. Cheers, Duade

[@esphilee]

Your photos are absolutely stunning.

[@TheCesWilliams]

Beautiful shots mate!

[@lachlangraham1062]

Great stuff Duade. On my list for when I convert to mirrorless.

[@rcarder2093]

As usual great photos and great commentary! I watched Pangolin's review about it a month or so ago and she was happy that Canon made the tripod collar permanent. Apparently she had issues with her 100-500 falling because of the tripod collar coming open unexpectedly. I personally have never had that issue with my 100-500 or 70-200. I'll be interested to see a review on this lens from a sports photographer as well.

[@unclebuck5957]

Waiting for mine to come in . The shots look great can't wait to get mine

[@hstein27]

Duade, congrats on the new lens! Looks very promising in conjunction with R5 for most applications, and R7 if you have a perched bird far away. Birds in flight with R7 will be a challenge at f9 as you said. Hopefully, I get my preorder filfilled by February, which is when Adorama is forecasting their next shipment. Canon apparently made so few of these that they were in short supply for preorders.

[@Duade]

Thanks and sorry to hear about the delay, I pre-ordered from Canon Australia the minute it was announced and I was very lucky to get one of the first shipment. Cheers, Duade

[@stuartcarlton7939]

Great video, I am watching far too many of these videos but at least they have all been encouraging about this lens. It will be interesting to see how it performs in the less sunny UK but at least I will be using an R5! Still awaiting news on my preordered copy.

[@derrydogsdirtbikeriders4266]

I was looking forward to yours and Jans reviews. I listened intently not only at the positives but also the negatives and can see why Canon would make this lens with its limitations. Imagine the cost and size of a bright (say f4) 200-800mm lens. I also agree with with you regarding the tripod foot and other small annoyances.... something to fix in version 2.

[@lynseyvanforeest4887]

You've just made me order one, even though before I watched this I told myself I would wait for a while for more reviews. I'll send you the bill 😁 Thanks for the review. Looking forward to Jan's too.

[@ww3688]

Great primer Duade... you have me riding with you on this wave of excitement! I am definitely inching closer to wanting one of these to pair up with my R5 vs using my R7 + 100-500. Sharpness and details at 800 look impressive... i wholly agree, getting more reach is addictive! Will your next review get me committed? Will i want the 200-800 over my 100-500+1.4x? I can't wait for your follow-up segment to find out! Awesome and quality presentation... You and Jan have us on the edge of our seats! Thank you mate!!

[@Duade]

Thanks Winston, Jans review is incoming and he talks about a few things we discovered after my first impressions which are worth thinking about. My review will take a bit longer as I need to compare it with lots of lenses etc. But so far I am enjoying it. The RF100-500 is by far the most amazing lens in that range and I will continue to use it. But it is annoying to use the 1.4 on that lens so I suspect I will use them both. The 200-800 for when I need reach and the 100-500 for macro, landscape, up close, tame subjects etc. Cheers, Duade

[@ww3688]

Thanks Duade! Take your time! Give us time to soak up Jan's review before moving on to yours! A lot of us are delighted to see you and Jan tag team and providing different perspectives!

[@woodygreen6826]

Spoonbill shot was outstanding, Duade!

[@ambrosechiu2338]

Great shot on the Little Eagle. with good day light, f/9 is not a problem. I use my Sigma 150-600mm Contemporary lens with TC1.4, it comes f/9 and 850mm. I don't have issue to shoot 20fps with Nikon Z8, it might be the stack sensor can keep the 20fps without any delay. for low light, i won't use the TC1.4 or for really cloudy day. I will use Z70-200mm with 2 x TC to get 400mm at f/5.6.

[@melvinbutler74]

Thank you for this. I've been on the fence about buying this lens. Right now it's out of stock. Most of the other KZbinrs been showing more negative about it than what you showed positive. It's going to be the next zoom lens for my camera bag. Thank you!

[@isotechimages.9130]

I managed to pick up the lens the day it arrived so been using for a few weeks now. I also have zero regrets & find it glued to my R7. We all want a faster lens but none of us want the weight penalty that would come with it. l would rather dip out on a stop of light to have an extra 200mm so would take this over another 200/600 f5/6.3. I do still feel at least on R7 that the autofocus is not as fast or accurate as the 800mm prime F11 probably due to less glass to move around. Anyway l will happily replace my 800 f11 & Tamron 150/600 with this lens. These slower lenses from Canon are very useable you just have to learn the limitations & go with it.😊

[@brycestroup5294]

Currently running a Tamron G2, is the autofocus improved? My g2 seems to hunt quite a lot. On the fence about upgrading right now not sure if I can justify the cost.

[@russelltaylor3102]

Wow seems promising. Just wondering how much recovery you did in post. Probably no big deal 😂 Looking forward to your next follow up vid and final thoughts. I’d certainly consider a purchase in the new year. ( Incidentally my little R10 doesn’t seem to have those R7 focus, loopy moments you’ve documented very well. Its a dream tbh) Thanks Duade for all your endeavours, so valuable to us all - even up here in Ireland! ☘️

[@evolvefromnow6735]

Thanks D as always a good honest review. I’d love to know how it compares with the 100-500 and 1.4x Tele. Both r5 and r7.

[@Washingtonium]

That would be very interesting.

[@robert_may]

600mm at f/8 isn't too bad considering that any of the f/6.3 600 zooms will be f/9 if you chuck a 1.4x TC on them to reach 800mm anyway. For those that know they need 800mm for their use, this lens is actually consistent with those other options and doesn't require swapping a TC on and off to get it. For me the f/6.3 zooms are already on the limit for the light levels here but for people in less dreary areas it looks like a good option 😄

[@ILasaroff]

Well I keep my Sigma at 600 f8 anyway, because it is soft at 6.3. If this Canon 200-800 solves the dreaded focus pulsing/hunting issues, gives a bit extra reach and is 30-40% less expensive than rf 100-500mm, it is a no brainer for me :)

[@Duade]

Great comment and totally agree, if you need reach or use a TC on your 600 zoom then this lens fits that niche well. If light is an issue then this might not be the best choice. Cheers, Duade

[@anildangol]

I don't think there is any other reviewer who does the review like you Duade higligting all the pros and cons and if they are important. Thank you for that.

[@Duade]

My pleasure, working on the review now, Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

My pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@Skux720]

Super excited about this lens too. 800mm in a handholdable lens is a real game changer.

[@chrismorecroft1599]

I’m still to use mine in good light so it’s good to see have some success , as you mentioned BIF are an ideal use with the zoom in and out and also the light weight compared to a prime . Looking forward to wetland or wader type photography with this lens .

[@Josh_Sattin]

Thanks Duade! That lens looks amazing!

[@Duade]

It is a good first impression but will do more testing for the review. Cheers, Duade

[@Josh_Sattin]

@@Duade I'm looking forward to seeing more of your experiences with it. I'm waiting for a review copy myself, but I think they are backordered at the moment.