D500 Nikon - Still a Legend?

In this review I show whether the Nikon D500 is still worth buying.
Is 20.9 MP sufficient and how does this camera perform in real world scenarios?
Find out if this crop sensor camera deserves a place next to a full frame camera.
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TIMESTAMPS
0:00 Intro
1:12 Construction
1:38 Speed
2:02 Handling
2:22 Sensor
3:19 Viewfinder
3:38 Battery life
3:59 D500 for Macro
4:25 Price
4:56 Conclusion
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#D500 #Nikon #camera

[@robertdavis1255]

Thanks for sharing...yes I purchased my D500 last year & because of lockdown I haven't fully made use of it for what it can deliver... Although I am only a hobbyist at 78 yrs old., I love to just take pics of whatever I feel/see... from wildlife to landscape... cheers from Australia 😀

[@WimBals]

Don't let age get in the way of taking great photos! At the very least, you have a beautiful camera to work with. Thanks for sharing this. Greetings from the other side of the globe, Belgium.

[@geraldmonger1921]

I used to be a professional photographer so don't think I'm bragging when I talk about my cameras. I own three Sony cameras that I enjoy using but my carry everywhere best loved camera is my D500. It's never let me down and fits my hand like a glove not to mention the colours from the files pretty much strait out of the camera. If you're on a budget definitely take a look at one, I'm pretty sure you won't regret it.

[@WimBals]

Thanks for your comment. The ergonomics, menu's of the D500 are really great.

[@otavioernesto2741]

I use a D500 together with a AF-P 70-300mm FX Nikon lens for short range bird photography, and a 150-600mm Sigma for long range bird photography. Setting AF mode to Group Focus, these assemblies are unbeatable for bird in flight capture. The autofocus glues on the subject, and with 10 fps it is almost impossible not to get good images. It is my all times favorite camera. Not even thinking in moving to a mirrorless, also because the natural upgrade, the dream camera Z9 is unaffordable for me. Cheers from Brazil!

[@WimBals]

It's still a dream machine for wildlife photography due to the great AF and extra reach of the DX crop.

[@hp2084]

@@WimBals I wanted to move to mirrorless but there is no equivalent and z50 cant do it. Something like Z9 would be great with DX sensor though. Dx sensor and their new 800pf would do wonders in getting awesome closeups.

[@davidthompson3136]

Nice to see your lenses! I bought the Sigma 150-600mm S lens for my D500, also! Best wishes for 2024, from New Zealand. 👍😎🇳🇿✨

[@yullteran5852]

I have a D500 and I have a question for you: What is the best focus mode option for shot birds for you?

[@smoore1810]

hello, I'm new to photography, I started with a D5000, so great, easy to figure out. I took 5 or 6 photography classes, and one of the intermediate instructors talked about upgrading beginner equipment, he referenced no cameras, somehow on my own I chose the D500 because it was very reasonable priced, and the person selling had used it to photograph birds, and her photographs were immensely incredible. Then a sports photography instructor talked about lens', so I purchased a Tamron 150-600mm. the Tamron worked on both cameras, and it's the most amazing thing I've used for photography, I decided the d5000 had taught me all it could and I sold it and have now purchased a d3400 as a back up camera. in about a month I cant believe the journey I've been on with photography and how well I understand it. your video means so much to me, meaning I got the right camera for my photography goals. TY from Louisiana, USA

[@WimBals]

Great story, thanks!

[@photoguy73]

I just bought a D500 used in May of 2024. I love it. So much better than the D7200 it replaced for me. Love the 10 fps RAW. Love the focusing system. Very reasonable too.

[@WimBals]

Good luck 👍

[@leamas1820]

D500 is not only a legend. It's best DSLR ever made.

[@WimBals]

😄That's possible...

[@Audimann]

D850 has not the speed of the D500 but it does a decent job. Understatement of the year😅😅

[@macarelli2097]

Bit it doesn’t have a flash 😮

[@leamas1820]

1) Target buyers of D500 have plenty of Speedlites and don't hesitate to use them 🙂@@macarelli2097 2) It's more aerodynamic without built in flash and that matters in high speed photography ;-)

[@AlanAlan-js4jv]

I have the D500 and the trinity 14-24 24-70---70-200 & 200-500 85mm 50mm 35mm I'll never stop using it.. I bought it back in 2019 it's great for taking moon shots.. I'm 69 now but still enjoy photo shoots

[@WimBals]

Great job 👏

[@donnamcdowell758]

I just bought a D500 and am looking forward to learning how to use it. Love your paintings!

[@WimBals]

Thanks Donna, good luck with your d500!

[@vavamu]

I recently bought my Nikon D500 to make Flight Spotting and I'm so happy with this monster!

[@WimBals]

Enjoy it!

[@ephotosaver]

Hello, Thank you for an informative review. I recently purchased a D500 and i am not disappointed. I can believe how fast this camera achieves focus as compared to my previous Nikon.

[@WimBals]

Thanks, enjoy your camera Charles!

[@MunimSuri]

using it for last six years.... love it....

[@WimBals]

Great job, still going strong!

[@alangeorgebarstow]

Hello, Wim. I have owned a cheap little Nikon D50 camera for 17 years. It's very basic but takes good pictures. When the time came, in late summer last year, to consider a better camera and telephoto zoom lens combination, I performed a massive amount of research before committing myself. I found that the positive reviews on the D500 far outweighed the negative reviews. It seems that nearly everyone who has bought one is highly delighted. As a direct consequence I bought a D500 and a Nikkor 200-500 telephoto zoom lens to accompany it for bird photography. Five months later I consider that it was more than a worthwhile purchase. Although I am still in the early days of learning to how to use this camera to its best advantage, I am finding the learning process easy and invigorating. I already have some excellent "keeper" photographs of birds in my garden and at a nearby migration watchpoint. I can't wait for spring to arrive so that I will have the opportunity of learning more about the D500 while taking photos of migrant birds. Thank you for an excellent video.

[@WimBals]

Hi Alan, thanks for your comment. I think you made a good choice with the Nikon D500. The 200-500mm is an excellent lens for wildlife. I now mostly use the 300mm PF F/4. A very light lens and an extra stop light. I think we're all looking forward to spring to get back out there with the camera. But even now, there are many opportunities to get started. Have fun!

[@edureg]

I have this camera since January 2019 and I love it more every day! I do photography of birds in flight and the burst speed is great. I can only suggest that if you use super telephoto lenses, you buy the grip and use the 8 AA batteries. This will give us more voltage and therefore greater performance when focusing quickly than with 7v batteries, in addition to training our biceps! Cordial greetings from Buenos Aires, and your video is excellent.

[@WimBals]

Thanks for your tip Eduardo!

[@moneybagzz]

I've been taking photos with the D500 since release (2016). Works like a charm....I do not recall any times that it ever disappointed. I've taken 40K+ images and some (not a lot) of video. Simply the ideal mid-range SLR.

[@WimBals]

Great!

[@randyschwager84]

I own it and love it. Versatility and quality of images are what makes it great!

[@WimBals]

100% Agree!

[@erg0101]

Great video, I have my D500 for 5 years. It's an amazing camera. My fav setup is with the 200-500 f5.6 nikon lens.

[@WimBals]

Great combo! I use the d500 with the 300mm f/4 pf.

[@osasenoma-owens5072]

Great video! I love the fact that you're still using DSLRs. I personally prefer an OVF to an EVF and I currently use a D7200. I plan to get a D850 soon though.

[@WimBals]

Thanks! I also have a D810, which was the predecessor of the D850. The D850 is an even 'more' camera so that should definitely be a good choice. Good luck with your photography.

[@dobbsgraphica4988]

Hi Wim. I think Nikon's D500 has gained such a loyal following simply because it delivers. With the Nikkor 200-500mm on my D500 motorsport or wildlife photography are so enjoyable. The only limits are your skills, as the camera will never let you down. Track a car for panning shots at ridiculously slow speeds. Lock on a Falcon with instinctive precision. Yes you need to develop your skills to get the most out of it, but that's the best part. Being rewarded for knowing your equipment.

[@WimBals]

So true!

[@liselottefrejdig1112]

Yes, I have the D500 and some lenses. I also have a SB-700 flash. I use it to photograph macro mostly. It's a very good multi-purpose camera.

[@genemcloud4114]

I have been researching the wisdom (or lack there of) of selling my D7200 and purchasing the D500. Since I shoot mainly wildlife (birds in flight) I think the burst rate will be a major benefit. Thanks for your nearly poetic review.

[@WimBals]

Thanks Gene, the AF is faster too on the D500 for BIF.

[@edmovinon135]

Yes had mine since it came out....still awesome!!

[@WimBals]

Great!

[@liselottefrejdig1112]

I bought my D500 just two years ago. It is the best camera I've had. Started with the FE back in 1978. I still have/use the F100. Yesterday, I put new batteries in it. But I agree with you. The D500 is a GREAT camera!!

[@WimBals]

Thanks for sharing this. Enjoy the D500 and great photo opportunities for many years to come.

[@liselottefrejdig1112]

@@WimBals I could buy the D850 or Z9 if you give me the money. With my poor economy, the D500 was the best choice. So far, I haven't regretted it.

[@ashwinmistry9464]

@@liselottefrejdig1112 very true

[@MrDan1509]

If you don't shoot action a D7200 will do a better job. Waaaay better dynamic range. The D500 is a high speed night owl. It hates brightness. Never expose to the rt on a D500.

[@kencarnley7101]

I love my D500. Low light sensor of the D4 and the dynamic focus capability is great for my use in Youth Sports.

[@WimBals]

Great for sports!

[@acherion]

Great video Wim! I absolutely adore my D500, for pretty much the same reasons you mentioned. 20.9MP is enough for most photography, and I have taken many pictures worthy of print with my D500. I bought my D500 brand new in 2018 after coming across a sale with a discount I couldn’t ignore, and sold my old D5300 to a family member (who wasn’t into photography much before, but is now). The only thing I could say negative about the D500 is its size, which is why I bought a Z fc a few months ago as a second body, for some street photography. The Z fc is a nice camera, but no match for the D500 for landscapes, birding, wildlife or macro. A few months ago I found a second hand vertical grip for 1/3 of the price of brand new, and now my D500 is even more capable, if there was such a thing. I’m glad to see you appreciate your D500 and am happy to see so much D500 love in the comments of your video. Happy shooting!

[@WimBals]

Thank you for your response. In addition to the D500, I also use a D810 that feels a bit heavier. Against the D810, the D500 feels a lot lighter, so you can see that everything is relative. I assume the Z fc is more compact and easy to carry around than the D500, so every camera has its advantages and disadvantages. It's indeed striking how much love for the D500 can be read in the comments for a camera built in 2016.

[@acherion]

@@WimBals yes the Z fc is more compact, especially with the 28mm lens I bought mine with, which makes it great for street photography but not exceptional in any other photography that I do. The size of the Z fc allows me to keep it in my carry bag all the time, something I couldn't do effectively with my D500 - as the say, the best camera is the one you have with you! But just like you can't necessarily build an entire house with just a screwdriver, different camera models have different strengths for different tasks, but the D500 seems to be a jack of (almost) all trades.

[@photographerswithoutborder7302]

amazing performance and perfect info, thanks a lot

[@WimBals]

Thank you!

[@mistergiovanni7183]

Thank you very much for uploading this content Wim. I'm thinking of the D500 as a second and sometimes main camera. I'm a little behind in technological terms, I still use the D700 and the D500 with a tele zoom would be very suitable for spotting. I was very happy to hear that you said that MPX should not be given so much importance. You have made a very interesting review but I want to congratulate you especially for that dress shirt, beautiful.

[@WimBals]

Thanks! The D700 can still deliver great results but the D500 is a 'faster' camera. I love my shirt too 🤩.

[@PunjabiGymBeats]

I do have D700 and will never sell it for it IQ and build Quality, thinking to add 200-500 to do it everything.

[@Futile_Soundscapes]

Thanks for this instructive video. I just sold my Olympus EM-1 mark iii, and gonna pick up the D500 + 200-500 in a couple of days. I was a Nikon shooter before I turned over to Olympus, with a lot of regrets. So looking forward to this ‘new’ setup!!!!

[@WimBals]

Sounds great! 👍

[@denisnicholson2528]

Absolutely love my D500. I put it through its paces last night taking photos at a Lindy Hop dancing event. The ISO performance, the incredible tracking and the 10fps left me astounded. I worried less on if I got a shot in focus or not and just focused on shoooting the dancers. As a musician, I can appreciate a great piano that will do what I ask it during the kost difficult and most sensitive musical pieces, and this D500 has done the same for my photography. Paired it with a 17-55 f2.8 and I couldnt be happier.

[@WimBals]

Love to hear that!

[@domc9922]

Great video Wim. I agree, FX sensors aren’t an upgrade, they just serve a different purpose. Just like the DX. This professional grade D500 is just what I need. The Autofocus points via OVF are incredible. they’re spread horizontally filling the entire frame and so many of them are cross-type, just great for wildlife ☺️☺️. I think the D500 is a great choice for me as I needed a camera that was pro tough, has memory card resiliency, shoots fast, has great AF, low light capability, dynamic range and crop sensor to increase the reach of my lenses. This camera ticks all these boxes. Good thing Nikon stuck to 20mpx and not higher.

[@WimBals]

Indeed a good summary of the qualities of the D500. Enjoy your camera!

[@domc9922]

@@WimBals thanks Wim 🤝

[@scw2599]

I love my D500's speed. I take a lot of wildlife, birds in flight and there is almost always a picture in a burst. The autofocus is fantastic and it will hold a subject very well once it locks on. I like its low light capability. I really like the pro body style, with all the important buttons easily attainable. I have, not once, regretted my purchase. Hello from Pennsylvania, USA

[@WimBals]

Thanks for your comment! Cheers, Wim

[@ridealongwithrandy]

Yep, you said it all! I pair this camera up with the 300mm F4D when I go up to the mountains not knowing what I might see. Cheers!

[@WimBals]

Great idea!

[@waltpierluissi2301]

Thanks a lot I do have a Nikon D300 and really I still love my camera but I was considering into move to mirror less, but really makes more sense to jump into the D500 and still can use my lenses without investing more money for the range I already have... Thanks very much for this video, It clarify my doubts and ideas.... I am also a watercolorist and photography is my source of inspiration.

[@WimBals]

The D500 is a great camera and you have f-mount lenses so I wouldn't jump into z-cameras. Good luck Walt!

[@aeonian_joy]

I was scratching my heads whether to go for a mirror less or stick to DSLR. I am a hobbyist who wants an upgrade. Main purpose landscape and bird photography. Your video helps me to settle down finally. Thank you Sir. 🙏🏼

[@WimBals]

Glad I could help! Enjoy shooting!

[@fabiobertiph2671]

hello from Italy, i've the d500 from 2017 and i will never sell it, becouse is strong, fast, very good quality, resistance high iso, x 1.5 , but not heavy and small. It's the best APS-C ever made by Nikon. So it's perfect for portraits, landscape, sports, animals, nature, nightlife ... it's the best choice to have a good quality without spent thousands of dollars/euros

[@WimBals]

Ciao Fabio, the D500 is a true workhorse that you can always count on.

[@davidhanson3345]

I use my D500 with a NIKKOR 70-300 4.5-5.6 FX internal focus lens. I use it every day. I do have the 200-500 lens, but use it mostly in the summer on birds. It is heavy, but worth the effort and price. My back up camera is a Nikon D7200. It too, is a very good camera. The only DX lens I use is the f 1.8 35mm. All the rest of my lenses are FX. I am retired and am extremely satisfied with my cameras.

[@WimBals]

Great combination! I switched the 35mm dx to the fx version and can see improved image quality. However, the 35mm dx is a lot bang for the buck.

[@anthonyvenuto1112]

Great video, Yes, sir. IMHO, it most certainly is a legend. How many other DSLR cameras would be worth purchasing 5 years after being introduced? Just purchased one a few months ago and love it. This is my upgrade from a D7000.

[@WimBals]

Enjoy your moments with the D500!

[@skyace888]

I own a D500 along with a Z6 II and primarily shoot nature, landscape, wildlife, and travel photography (occasionally I will do portraits and events). The D500 is my go-to for wildlife and fast action and I typically have my Tamron 150-600 G2 or Nikon 70-200E lens on it. Mirrorless tech continues to improve significantly and we all know DSLRs will eventually be phased out though. Maybe my next camera will be the Z8 to replace my D500. Who knows. Until then, I will keep shooting!

[@WimBals]

Great choice!

[@pmarch7288]

I have a d500 and still love it. It takes excellent pictures and is well made. Currently waiting for my Nikon 6ii I ordered. With keep both. Also have a d5300 which also takes good pictures but has less features to work with.

[@WimBals]

I also had the d5300 in the past, a very good camera indeed, but a bit too small for my hands.

[@geoffprotheroe1201]

i Bought this camera new nearly 3 years ago having tried other low end Nikon DX cameras for pet photography and combined with a Nikkor 17 - 55 2.8 lens I am astouded with the resuts I get. I look at the new mirroless cameras and they do not provide the battery life, speed or useabilty of this camera and lense combination. Very good review and I will be staying with my D500 for quite sometime in the future

[@WimBals]

Love to hear that!

[@glennburch1081]

Don't own it, but will buy it soon. I am an amatuer photographer (Mostly wildlife) looking to step my game up. Working on a budget as well. Will couple this camera up with the 200-500mm 5.6 Nikkor telephoto lens. Used to shoot with Nikon manual cameras, this will only be my second Nikon DSLR camera (Currently own a Nikon D5300 DSLR camera). I have been comparing wildlife camera rigs now for about 6 months, different manufacturers. I have looked at a ton of reviews and my interest and gut feeling keeps coming back to the Nikon D500 and the Nikkor 200-500mm 5.6 lens. I am aware there are as good, if not better wildlife cameras out there for this price point, but I am a loyal Nikon user and the differences are not enough to make me jump ship. Can't wait, almost ready to pull the trigger!

[@WimBals]

It will be quite an upgrade coming from a D5300, which I also once had. Perhaps the 300mm PF F/4 (possibly with 1.4 TC) is also worth considering against the 200-500 F/5.6. The autofocus is more accurate and faster and don't forget the difference in weight! With the 300mm PF (possibly second-hand) you also have an extra stop of light, so for example 1600 ISO instead of 3200 ISO or a faster shutter speed. Either way, whatever choice you make, you will have a lot of fun with it.

[@TRunner4]

I know that this video is a year+ old but I am in the process of picking up may camera (D500) again after some years away from it. And wow, I never thought there was so much love for the D500. I bought mine in 2016 and got some great stuff with it, untill I put all my lens and D500 in the closet. Funny thing is I was thinking of getting the new iPhone 15 Pro Max to get back into photography. But watching a few video to see what is said about the D500 in 2023 and I am shocked at how well it still stands up to today cameras. So I now believe I will not get the iPhone 15 Pro Max and I will get my D500 out and get to shooting it again. Thanks for the video and thanks for all the messages from others about how much they still love their D500.

[@WimBals]

Great 👍

[@davidthompson3136]

Great camera. Great phone. But with a real camera (and I have several, including the D500 - bought in 2020 - and some excellent lenses) you have to think and work harder! And then the results aren’t surprising, they are rewarding! Cheers from New Zealand 👍😎🇳🇿✨

[@GastonMaqueda]

This camera is a TANK, I bought mine in 2016 and I photograph wolves in Canada, Lions in Africa an Tigers in India. Never fail, doesn't matter if is under the rain, dust, hot and cold. She's ready for the next adventure in Kalahari and South America. I love mine

[@WimBals]

Wow, great!

[@99sixstring]

Hello Wim, I own a D500 for about 5 years now and was thinking lately, to get a Nikon z. Thx for your vid, I will keep it! I use it for travel photograpy, landscape, macro, splash-photos, stills / products / food, aso. and I had very few moments I didn´t get a nice pic out of it. Why I love it? as some guys wrote: it delivers! I especially like the size of the body, because of my bigger hands. There´s something "in your hand", it feels kinda natural. The fingers are in the right position instantly and the weight gives me the right tension, that it lays perfectly in your hand. I use the 16-80, 70-200 f4, Tamron 90mm, Laowa 60mm for Macro. thx again!

[@WimBals]

The D500 is built to last for years. If you were to switch to the Z system, it would be expensive , especially if you want to replace a number of lenses. I would also miss the balance in the weight of the body and the lenses. In the meantime, hopefully enjoy your D500 for a long time to come!

[@JulesMoyaert_photo]

Subscribed!

[@qphase49]

I use a D800e and a pair of D7100s for most of my photography. Once in a while I break out my Olympus OM-D E-M1X and OM Systems OM-5. They are all good tools and have their place. My favorite overall is still the D800e.

[@WimBals]

The D800e is still a great camera!

[@bhoustonjr]

I too am using a D500, with my AF-S DX NIKKOR 16-80mm f/2.8-4E ED VR it is amazing combination. I have also started getting into Astrophotogaphy with it.... and I have already gotten some bueatiful photo especially when stacking.

[@WimBals]

That’s great Billy!

[@acherion]

I agree, the 16-80 is the perfect lens for the D500. I almost never take it off my D500.

[@UWI-Anna]

Amazing camera! I use this for birding paired w/ 500mm pf lens.

[@WimBals]

Great combination!

[@karenc2467]

I just bought a used one with the 16-80. Can’t wait to get shooting:)

[@WimBals]

Great, happy shooting!

[@manojkantak6807]

Thanks for complementing D500 I do weddings and had this BEAST IN 2016. I HAD 17 TO 55 MM 2.8 I STILL WORK ON IT WITH LOT IF MIRRORLESS ROUND ME AND PEOPLE TELL ME TO UPGRADE. MY ANSWER TO THEM IS I M H A P P Y TO BE A OWNER OF THIS PERFORMANCE. THANKS A LOT ONCE AGAIN

[@WimBals]

Thanks, the d500 still can deliver great images!

[@tlewisAK]

I have a D500, and I shoot mainly small area indoor sports, landscapes / Astro (Aurora Borealis). I came from the D5300 (a great camera in its own right). The D500 is heads and shoulders above the entry / consumer level cameras, including most mirrorless cameras. I wish I had purchased a D500 much sooner.

[@WimBals]

Funny thing, I also started Nikon with the D5300, a camera that gave great value for money. The D500 is of course on a completely different level.

[@nickreid5939]

I have a D5300....in what way is the D500 better?..shutter speed..? Body?..A/e button?...but what about picture quality of the D5300......?

[@tlewisAK]

@@nickreid5939 there’s a lot of differences, but the 2 most notable are 1. AutoFocus and 2. FPS burst rate. With autofocus, it’s much, much, much faster to lock onto your subjects, snd you can fine tune your focus for each of your lenses. My D5300 would always back focus so I had to either manually compensate for it or I’d have to raise my f-stop to f6 or higher. I shoot a fair amount of indoor martial arts. The faster FPS helps me get the peak action shot. The D500 also does flicker reduction so when I shoot under LED’s I get a better image where I don’t have 1/2 the image dark because I caught the osculation of the LED’s. One thing the D5300 has over the D500 is the 24 mp sensor instead of a 21 mp sensor. The D5300 is also a much lighter camera. I still have my D5300, snd I enjoy shooting it. It’s still a great camera,and it will produce amazing images, but it’s just not on the same level as the higher end DX camera.

[@WimBals]

@@nickreid5939 Better AF, MAX ISO, environmental sealing, battery life is double the D5300, 10 fps vs 5fps, better ergonomics, viewfinder, number of focus points...

[@EdPOD]

@nickreid5939 Hi, all, I see your comments on the D5300 & D500. I am very interested in upgrading to the D500. I have the D5000, but with my AF-S 18-200mm Nikor 1:3.5-5.6 G ED lens I do not always see sharp focus, at lower than full-day lighting. Do you think the D500 will add benefits to using this lens? (Everyday use, holiday shooting of cities & some landscapes & wildlife.)

[@liselottefrejdig1112]

I started with a Nikon FE 1978.. Now I have a D500.. I choosed between the D500 and the D750. The shop didn’t had the D750, so it became the D500.. So far, I haven’t regret it..

[@WimBals]

A very good choice, I am convinced that you will enjoy this camera for years to come.

[@seancraven2361]

Just got one after watching so many great reviews and videos on it only starting out and, told by many professional photographers it's a classic and if can find one to get it and learn how to use it because most later models are not as good for wildlife and bird photography. Hopefully can master it one day. So expensive for used gear but told it's the Porshe of cameras for nature.

[@WimBals]

The D500 is a camera you’ll enjoy!

[@xujacob75]

Thank you for sharing. I started photography about a year ago. I bought D500 about 6 month ago, an upgrade from my D3300, and I already took almost 30k shots with D500. I mostly use my Sigma 150-600mm lens for birds. I also bought a old 80-200 f2.8 for indoor sports, Sigma 17-50 f2.8 for general use, a Tokina wild angle 14-20mm f2.0 for landscape/nightsky. You are absolutely right about the extra reach DX sensor for wildlife. I chose D500 against Z6 (about the same price) because I knew my primary subject was bird. Recently, I was wondering if I should get a D610 for low light such as milky way photo, I suppose full frame would provide much better results for night sky. Have you tried to use D500 for low light/night sky? Thank you again.

[@WimBals]

It's great that you like the D500 so much, it's therefore an ideal camera for photographing birds. I think the D500 holds up well in low light conditions. The D610 full frame would be better for night photography, but if I had the choice I'd take the D750 second hand with the NIkon 20mm f/1.8.

[@sinetwo]

I actually sold my full frame Nikon DSLR and went D500. I never looked back. The only thing I miss a bit is a full frame for studio shooting, but I've adapted!

[@WimBals]

Love to hear that!

[@weicaihan5545]

I just bought one for my daughter indoor volleyball video shooting 😊

[@WimBals]

Good luck 👍!

[@ungavaproductions]

I own this camera since about 5 years and this is my preferred one even if I own also 2 full frame bodies abd few others APSC. I mostly shoot wildlife and landscape photography. Finaly, I think this is one of the best camera on the market. A baby D 5

[@WimBals]

100% agreed.

[@sunilwijewardena3028]

I own D500 I like the most it’s performance it’s a great camera and light weight stable in hand

[@WimBals]

👍

[@eduardoramos8275]

La Nikon D500 es una de las maravillas de Nikon. Después de varios años sigue siendo una cámara excelente para la fotografía de naturaleza. Buen control de ISO, ráfaga de 10 fps con buffer de 200 raw (tarjeta xqd), enfoque rápido, buen rango dinámico, una batería que ójala tuvieran las mirrorless, buena ergonomía, etc...una maravilla a un precio muy bueno hoy en día

[@WimBals]

De hecho, la D500 es un clásico y una de las mejores cámaras jamás fabricadas por Nikon.

[@victorpeche6217]

Hola, se puede usar para video o está limitado por el crop factor de x2.2 en 4k?

[@xray111xxx]

Legends that is internet fodder.. the D500 is an awesome camera. The best camera you can get that says quality, and performance in one package. The Z cameras are their main products, but the D series has been and will be delighting for many for years to come. Plentiful F series and 3rd party support, this camera is still a wonderful part of any Nikon series system. Primary or your B camera, the D500 is wonderful. For me if I move forward most likely a Z6 or Z5, but a D500 used today is amazing more value. I never buy cameras new anymore.

[@WimBals]

Thanks for your comment. You can enjoy the D500 for years to come!

[@kennypringle4580]

I’ve owned at least 14 Nikon camera models. At this time I have the (2) d500, d810 and (2) d850. If I had to sell all but one I’d keep the (2) d500 cameras. There is nothing inferior with a DX crop sensor. I shoot youth sports portraits, corporate events and weddings with these. The d500 can do a lot, the files are great and don’t bog down my computer.

[@WimBals]

I love to hear that!

[@nightmareaccomplice5816]

Nice video!! Thanks. I do not own a d500 but I own a d7500. I didn't have the money for a d500 and found a defective d7500 for real cheap and I repaired it. The d7500 has the same exact same quality as the d500. I'm quite happy with it but my wildlife photography suffers due to the inferior focus system on the d7500. I get 8 fps instead of 10 from the d500. Maybe one day I'll have the money to afford a d500

[@WimBals]

The D7500 is similar to the D500 in many ways. Unfortunately, the autofocus system in the D7500 uses the same system as the D7200, and not the newer one from the D500.

[@nightmareaccomplice5816]

@@WimBals the d7500 has the same 180,000 rgb metering sensor as the d500 giving it better auto focus than the d7200. Also the d7500 has 3d auto focus the d7200 hasnt.

[@tonmoykarmakar6913]

Fast af system, pro build quality, pro imaging 💖

[@WimBals]

100% Correct!

[@boltonperry9227]

Love mine so much I'm gonna buy a second one for a spare!!!

[@WimBals]

Sounds like a great idea!

[@boltonperry9227]

@@WimBals I found a D3 and a D4 with less than 1000 clicks! Try to find a 500 with the same!!!

[@shynomaster]

Hello. I love my Nikon D500 for astro photos and 4K videos.

[@WimBals]

Great 👍

[@ashwinmistry9464]

Thanks for your great experience and I will take as advice I have D500 and want to enjoy bird photography bit using 18-200 I got ok image. Watching all you tubers I was thinking I should go for Sony with 200-600 f5.6? Now I have questions which lense I should purchase with D500 to get sharp images like I saw you took it . Are you using topaz? Which software do you use to develop raw images thanks for your time

[@WimBals]

I myself use the excellent NIKON 70-300mm AF-P f/4.5-5.6 E ED VR lens. I have extensively tested this lens and can be seen in this video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eGTYmYyCp8iGhpY In addition to the NIKON 70-300mm AF-P f/4.5-5.6 E ED VR, the NIKON AF-S 200-500mm F/5.6E VR ED is a particularly good lens for wildlife photography. This will give you more range, especially if you want to photograph birds. If you already have a D500 you already have an excellent body, I wouldn't switch to Sony. I don't use Topaz. I develop the RAW files in Capture One Pro for Nikon. This software gets the most out of the RAW files in my opinion.

[@ashwinmistry9464]

Thanks a lot your advice and saving money in the critical time

[@saware1]

@@WimBals exactly. For wildlife nothing more is required for a hobbyist than a d500 + 200-500mm f5.6. If there any limitations then that is our own skill and opportunity. On top of that, topaz d-noise have solved the problem with low light shooting.

[@tonyb2760]

Today, I purchased a D500 in like new condition with just over 7,000 shutter actuations for less than half the original price. I know what the camera is capable of which is why I waited until the price came down.

[@WimBals]

Great bargain, I think you'll enjoy your D500!

[@Chris1878e]

I want to get back into photography sold my old camera and I'm very torn between a nikon d500 or sony a6400 mirrorless I do mostly wildlife and insect photography with one would you recommend?

[@WimBals]

Hi Chris, the Nikon D500 has better autofocus, battery life, faster shutter speed, dynamic range and ergonomics.

[@JoeyBelmonte]

I use the Nikon D500 for nightclub/concert photography. It does pretty damn well. But most music media content is shot with mirrorless nowadays. Im wondering If I should switch over to mirrorless because the 4K video with the d500 in low light nightclubs can be a mighty challenge. Also the crop sensor makes it difficult when things get tight on stage or in crowds. I would have to change all my lenses if I make the switch + everything is so expensive nowadays.

[@WimBals]

Maybe you can start with the ftz adapter.

[@konjakubowski]

I don't have D500 yet, but I'm going to buy it. I'm an active planespotter and D500 is amazing for that kind of photography. Many of my planespotting friends have it, love it and recommend it. So buying this awesome camera is only the matter of time ;)

[@WimBals]

The D500 won't disappoint, it's an incredible camera with lightning-fast autofocus. The 10 frames per second and the crop factor will come in handy when plane spotting. Good luck!

[@trantom5977]

Sir! Please tell me this Nikon D500 will work with CF Express Type B or not? Thank you.

[@WimBals]

The D5 firmware version 1.4, D850 firmware version 1.20 and D500 firmware version 1.3 allow the cameras to use CFexpress Type B memory cards in these Nikon DSLRs.

[@ashwinkumar8325]

I am yet to get mine in a couple of days. I feel I have done the right thing by purchasing it along with a 500 F5.6 for wildlife and action and a 50 1.8 for portrait. Very confident that the set up should be more than sufficient for most kinds of photography will keep you posted. Cheers from India

[@WimBals]

Great combo, you'll be happy with your new gear!

[@rishav98m]

Sir , im using Nikkor AF-P 18-55mm lens with d500 for video ! But , in AF-F mode the canera does not focus in countinous manner like it should do ! What can i do to fix this ?

[@WimBals]

A DSLR like the D500 is less suitable for video when you use autofocus. The autofocus will 'hunt' too much to find the right focus, no matter what lens you use. With a dslr it is always better to use manual focus for video, a mirrorless camera is much better suited for autofocus video.

[@glennburch1081]

@@WimBals There are many uTube posts that will verify your response, word for word. Comes down to your main reason for buying the camera. TY for sharing your expertise, greatly appreciated.

[@bhalchandrakapatkar1710]

👍 thanks 🙏d500👍

[@WimBals]

You're welcome

[@eriklee4014]

With dslr cameras falling out in value or atleast thats what ive been told , how hard is it to find parts to reair the camera or getting a lens serviced if need be , sence everything is going to mirrorless?

[@WimBals]

I think Nikon uses the idea that they can repair devices for up to 10 years. You will probably still be able to find spare parts. For example, a while ago I ordered new rubbers for my D810 (from 2014) that I could get without any problems from Procirep, the company that is responsible for repairs here in Belgium and Luxembourg.

[@pictureframe2104]

It’s been between the z6 vs d500 vs d7500 for me. I’m not very good with camera controls: The z6 is a great camera, but d500 seems great too. D7500 I know I can use because it is tailored to intermediate enthusiasts and I used my moms for a while. D500 looks like it has pro controls and i made that mistake before with fujifilm

[@WimBals]

A lot depends on what you want to photograph. If you want to capture fast action such as wildlife or sports, the D500 is your companion. I would rather choose the Z6 for landscape and portrait photography. Also in terms of dynamic range, this full-frame is slightly better than the other 2. Be aware, lenses are more expensive with the z-line. The D7500 is the easiest camera to use and probably the cheapest. The D7500 and the D500 share the same sensor, so both are the same in terms of image quality. Note, the D500 is a lot bigger than the D7500. Good luck with your choice, they are all 3 good cameras.

[@joanneabramson2645]

I have both the D7500, and this year bought the D500. The D7500 has many advantages for intermediate photographers with auto, programs, and scenes to support you. It is a solid camera that you can learn photography. I moved to the D500 this year as it had 150 sensors compared to the 51 on the D7500, 10 frames per second, and great autofocus for birds in flight photography. If you are doing BIF, or sports/action photography the D500 would be your best choice. Otherwise, the D7500 is a solid, great camera.

[@gary7851]

I still have mine and I use it for videography, this camera is still glorious, I'm considering buying a gimbal I've done some research & it looks Nikon d500 is having issues with gimbals, which gimbal do you think suits well? a lot of people they are recommending ronin s, have you had any experience? thank you.

[@WimBals]

I also often use the D500 to film my painting process. That always happens with the use of a tripod. I have no experience with a gimbal myself, but a DJI Ronin SC 2 (RSC 2) might be a good choice for a D500..

[@shot2death876]

That type of gimbal I would have thought was more for video than stills. For stills with a long heavy lens try a Benro. Comes with Arkus plate you attach to camera and the gimbal itself just screws onto a tripod or monopod.

[@cellu84]

I’m planning to buy this camera as my first camera… Do you think is it still worth on 2022? Thanks in advance. PS: Love your videos

[@WimBals]

Hi, the D500 is an outstanding camera, even in 2022. Really fast AF, great ergonomics, perfect button lay out.

[@DAVE_WHITE]

Still use my D3 and D500 weekly..

[@WimBals]

Love that!

[@magdavictoria21]

Hello Everyone :) :) I would like to ask what camera to choose for animal photos - mainly horses: Nikon D5 or D6 or Nikon D500? Maybe Canon 1dX mark II?? I know it's FX and DX but I read different opinions and I don't really know which one is better. I read about the D500 that it has 153 AF points only in subject tracking mode, but only 55 points selectable ... and I don't know if it's just right for horses or not enough. Maybe mirrorless would be better - Nikon Z6II or Canon R6 II?? I am not a professional photographer, but I would like to deepen my knowledge in this field and change my camera. I currently own a Nikon D5200.

[@WimBals]

Any of these cameras would be a significant upgrade from your current D5200. Personally I would choose the D5 or D6 in your case. The build quality, speed, autofocus, lowlight capabilities and durability put these cameras on another level.

[@magdavictoria21]

@@WimBals and what do You think about Canon 1dx II? This camera is as goog as Nikon D5?

[@WimBals]

I use Nikon only. Don't know about that Canon. If you are used to Nikon the D5 would be logical.

[@stanleynowak9325]

20.9 can be blown up to poster size. Hell, it can do a billboard. I have one!

[@WimBals]

Absolutely 👍

[@MrNyuntshwe]

Dear Wim, don't you think it would be better to buy Lumix DC G9pro than Nikon D500 for almost the same price, G9 new/D500 secondhand AB rank? I'm not a professional and love to photograph nature, landscape and portrait photos. Please kindly advise me if I should go buying D500. Oh, I still have about 7 or 8 Ai and AiS Nikon lenses of film era!!! And I can't afford variety of digital lenses for the time being! Thank you!

[@WimBals]

Hi, of the two cameras under consideration, the Nikon D500 features an APS-C sensor and the Panasonic G9 a Four Thirds sensor. The size of the sensor inside a digital camera is one of the key determinants of image quality. A large sensor will tend to have larger individual pixels that provide better low-light sensitivity, wider dynamic range, and richer color-depth than smaller pixel-units in a sensor of the same technological generation. Moreover, a large sensor camera will give the photographer more control over depth-of-field in the image and, thus, the ability to better isolate a subject from the background. The D500 also has 3x the battery life of the g9, a large optical viewfinder and more choice in second-hand lenses. Your old lenses will also fit perfectly. For me personally I would go for the D500.

[@MrNyuntshwe]

@@WimBals Thank you very much for your reasons, clear highlight, and opinion that will guide me to choose D500. Thanks again!

[@pranisha59]

Hey I am planning to buy this camera soon , may be this camera will discontinue soon , thanks for your video . Now my budget is not high for mirrorless camera .

[@WimBals]

Great camera, enjoy it!

[@pranisha59]

Yes it's really great camera , its machine gun . Even though mirror less are fail in front of this camera . Amazing camera I bought this camera this week . Enjoying colour tone n fps r great . Thanks 👍

[@WimBals]

Good luck!

[@golfsierrahotel4806]

Love my D500 and would happily take another one in preference to the new mirrorless systems. The Z9 looks great however but its vastly overpriced

[@WimBals]

Thank you for your comment. Compared to the Sony a1, the price of the Z9 is still reasonable. Although it remains an expensive body of course.

[@wildlifesnapper1]

@@WimBals Indeed, and I'm also happy with my "F" glass so that's another reason for me to be more than contented with my D500

[@WimBals]

So true, even my AF-D lenses doing fine on the D500.

[@TribodybyVi]

I own a D7500 and want to upgrade. Is the D500 a side upgrade or a full upgrade? I'm not sure which way to go.

[@WimBals]

I also have the D7500 so I can make the comparison with the D500. I think the biggest difference is the speed of the AF. Image quality between both cameras is the same with a slight preference for the D7500 for me.

[@JulesMoyaert_photo]

👍💛

[@WimBals]

Thanks!

[@JulesMoyaert_photo]

@@WimBals Belge? 🙂

[@WimBals]

Yesss!

[@JulesMoyaert_photo]

@@WimBals Moi aussi! 😊

[@mariah8197]

Would this be good for wildlife videos? Or just a legend for photography mainly?

[@WimBals]

There is an additional crop in 4K video, so have even greater reach. However the autofocus for video isn’t really great on a dslr. If you don’t mind manual focus then this is a great option.

[@RogerTruong-ct5zx]

I loved Nikon d500 very much anh I did not have crop those photos that I took them. If I crop and I will lost my quality photos. Whai I show and I see and I get. Exactly what I want too. Even I hmad Nikon D750 too

[@WimBals]

It's a great camera!

[@brandontemple20]

under 800 bucks now, amazing camera for the money

[@WimBals]

Great deal!

[@tomcurnett7519]

I have a D 500 for the last five years. I think my focus is a little off. I have okay eye sight and that may be the issue. I want very sharp eye popping photos.

[@WimBals]

Maybe consider af fine tuning your lenses with the d500.

[@user-fn6qo9oi8t]

Sir i have an issues sd card error camera did nt picks the card

[@WimBals]

Try to format the SD card in the PC first. Also, take well-known brands such as Samsung or SanDisk for your SD cards.

[@user-fn6qo9oi8t]

@@WimBals sd slots pin has been broken by sd card now its working thanx for you

[@alfredconqueror4422]

I bought a Z6II and a Z 50mm. I'm a hobbyist and I always felt I invested too much and the Z lenses prices are too high. There's a guy with a D500 with 3,000 shots, should I trade it with him? Not sure how much of a downgrade it would be but carrying around a cheaper camera and the used FX glass is what has me thinking...

[@WimBals]

The D500 basically has the same sensor as the Z50. If you are satisfied with the Z50, then you will of course also be satisfied with the D500. Another story is with the ergonomics of the D500, which feels perfect in the hand against the undersized mirrorless. The D500 will also beat the Z50 in terms of autofocus and battery consumption. Here is my own subjective opinion about the lenses. The new Z lenses are in my opinion too sterile and lack 'soul'. Also, don't forget that with the D500 you can use the AF-D lenses, such as the beautiful 180mm. It will not autofocus on a Z-body. I myself also have a D810 that is of even better quality than the D500 in terms of image quality. You only have to think for yourself, if you need very fast autofocus and frames per second, then I would choose the D500, otherwise the D810.

[@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll]

Good arguments, but I am not convinced. if I take my d850 with the vertical grip and set it in DX mode, I get basically a D500 image, but with a better sensor, ISO64 (so better dynamic range) and the ergonomics of a full body...and of course I can return it to FX mode and I get full frame 45.7mp files. so I am not sure I am losing anything over the d500

[@WimBals]

The ergonomics of the D500 and the D850 are almost the same in my opinion. The D500 can also be equipped with a vertical grip without any problem. That being said, the D850, with grip, is about twice the price of a D500 body. So we are in a different price range. Nevertheless, in my experience you have a higher keeper ratio with the D500 than the D850. Which has to do with probably a better AF system. That does not alter the fact that the D850 is an astonishing camera(!) and when you own one, it may be superfluous for some to also own a D500.

[@alanlu86]

you are not convinced because you probably seldom shoot wildlife with a long lens handheld. Try that for a month, and you will know the difference.

[@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll]

@@alanlu86 I don’t follow. The weight difference between a d850 and a d500 is nothing compared to the 7.5lbs of my sigma 120-300 f/2.8,

[@jc.baptiste]

@@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll the resulting cropped image from your full frame will actually be of lower resolution than the straight output from the D500.

[@alanlu86]

@@DanielRodriguez-fg5ll my experience is every bit counts when you are hand-holding and shooting birds most of the time.

[@vijayatmusic]

Z6ii or D500 as both are in almost same price range, tough dilemma to encounter.

[@WimBals]

If you regularly do sports, action or nature photography, I would go for the D500 (better grip, battery life, DX advantage). You can choose from many lenses without using the FTZ adapter as with the Z6ii. Keep in mind that the Z lenses are generally more expensive than the f-mount lenses. Anyway, both the Z6ii and the D500 are interesting cameras. Everything depends on your needs.

[@vijayatmusic]

@@WimBals thanks

[@nachohernandez9491]

I wanna get one sooooo Bad But torn between d500 and d700.....

[@WimBals]

The D500 is a lot more modern than the D700 in all respects. Much better autofocus and more megapixels (20.9 vs 12). Personally, it would be a no-brainer and I'd pick the D500 over the D700 unless you absolutely want a full frame.

[@Audimann]

Have both and the D700 is indeed older, lower resolution etc... But the D700 is an icon. For weddings and portraits still used by pro's.

[@alanlu86]

Easy decision. If you shoot wildlife more often, nothing beats D500. I have been using it since it appeared on the market in 2016. My camera has logged more than half a million shots and is still working perfectly. But I have bought another second hand just in case my first fails. MORE THAN HALF A MILLION ACTUATIONS ALREADY!

[@deeptens]

I have both, 500 and 700. The 500 goes out the door every day. I shoot mostly wildlife. The 700 is used for people and flowers and landscapes. I have an 850 for night and landscape . The best eagle pictures I've captured comes from the 850. File size is a must for me so it's the 500. Sports / wildlife 500. People the 700. The 850 is great for anything but the file size is time consuming after shooting 200-300 pictures a day. The 700 doesn't track well but has a sweet 12mg picture. The answer is easy choose a camera for your needs not wants.

[@Archmage88ttv]

Is this an upgrade from d3400?

[@WimBals]

The D500 is a much better camera than the D3400. The big difference is in the speed of the camera, AF, viewfinder, ergonomics, the rather comfortable touch screen and the superior video recording. A recommendation of the D500 is made easy.

[@Archmage88ttv]

@@WimBals thanks a heap

[@Hai-xw5fd]

I find the z50 to be a better camera than the d500.. A lot of people in our z50 facebook group also felt so..

[@WimBals]

In what way?

[@Hai-xw5fd]

​@@WimBals I find the image quality to be quite similar, although the noise profile is different in low light. Video quality is better in z50, it is lighter to carry around as well. Z mount lenses are much sharper than AF lenses for the same price. for instance, the 50-250 Z id much much better than the 70-300 dx lens. There are draw back here and there, but overall z50 makes a lot of sense in 2022.

[@Dochorahan]

No, AF on D500 is better than my Zfc, Z50, Z5, Z6.

[@MiguelGomes2023]

I use Canon, but this is the best crop Sensor camera, untill today. Maybe when Canon release the mirrorless 7d Version, the King d500 will finally Fall.

[@WimBals]

The D500 is truly a unique DX camera.

[@rjpg]

Until there is a Z DX with D500 AF, the D500 is still king for wildlife.

[@WimBals]

So true!

[@chansouvannarath3789]

12 megapixels is all you ever need unless you crop like crazy

[@engrtp0]

I just upgraded from a Nikon D80 (10mp) - that was fine for most anything I chose to print. I bought the d80 in 2008 and it's been a workhorse - my hopes are that the D500 will last as long - I'm sure that camera and I will be best friends as soon as I open the box on Christmas morning - I've been a very good boy this year!

[@RajaSekar-USA]

As years pass. D5 and D6 will get cheaper. Wait for it.

[@WimBals]

That's true. But remember, both the D5 and D6 have often been used in a professional context, unfortunately wear and tear often plays an important role in this.

[@Dochorahan]

And still isn't as good as D500.