Tamron 150-500mm for SONY, How Does It Perform? Much Better Than Expected!!!

[@tpg5974]

Wow! Really enjoyed the transition from the RAW file to the edited. Really makes me want to learn some editing techniques!

[@woodygreen6826]

I confess that I mainly watched this to see Australian birds. The Fairy-wren on the rock singing was simply outstanding. Great capture, Duade.

[@Duade]

Thanks Woody, I liked that one also, thanks for the comment. Cheers, Duade

[@scooter5193]

So true on how time passes by when birding. Absolutely love the hobby. It’s always nice to be rewarded with spotting a new species or getting that epic shot. Great job on the reviews and photography tips. Thank you.

[@Duade]

Thanks Scooter, yes, I still get a high after all these years. Cheers, Duade

[@nguquyen]

I am a Sony shooter. It is such a nice thing to see you using a different camera system!

[@Duade]

Quyen, I am happy to try all the brands. It was fun trying out the Sony, Cheers, Duade

[@KM-qd4kf]

Good no nonsense, no gimmicky, down to earth content. Thanks

[@Duade]

Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade

[@robvankeulen525]

Hi Duade, I love the way you do your reviews! they are educational as well as informative. Relaxed way of telling and topped up with great shots. So my compliments.

[@Duade]

Thanks Rob, I appreciate the feedback, Cheers, Duade

[@madcat1007]

Very impressed with the difference between the raw file and the final edit. Have you ever done any videos detailing your post processing technique?

[@erkkisiekkinen286]

Hi ,I am Erkki from Finland again. My recent Sony birding kit has been Sony a7IV +FE 200-600m.Few days ago I got an opportunity to buy this Tamron 150-500mm very reasonably ,so I bought it at least for testing. My first observations after few days use vs.FE 200-600mm : AF is very similar ,tracking works very good and bird eye af works as good. Allthough birds eye af is not as good as in my Canon R6 with RF 100-500m. On the other side Sony a7IV has a super picture quality. This Tamron is a very well built lens and IQ seems to be excellent. Maybe Rf 100-500mm and FE 200-600mm are better in the corners on the long end but actually that does not practically matter. So I think I will keep this lens as lighter Sony option.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Erkki, yes, it makes a lighter option to the Sony which can be quite big and heavy at times. Cheers, Duade

[@focus_unveil]

Just got this lens .. looking to using it this summer sports photography 😊

[@Duade]

Have fun with it, I was surprised with how well it works, just be aware the lens does limit the camera to 15fps depending on which camera you have. Cheers, Duade

[@klburt73]

Thanks for the review! Love the outtakes... haha. Always happy to see you put out another video.

[@Duade]

Thank you, I appreciate the feedback, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@BhromonBhomra]

Too beautiful these creatures, the fairy wren is one I wish to photograph now someday.

[@geoffn8963]

Thanks for the video. I always enjoy seeing the different birds from AUS. I'm a Sony and Canon shooter. Mostly Sony these days but I did own the R5 and 100-500RF for about 7 months. Sold it for the A1. The A9II does not have Bird Eye-AF. There are a few species of birds where it does find the eye if the bird is large in the frame (owls for example). But officially it only supported animals (which it does a really good job on...very similar to the R5's animal eye-af). The Sony A1 is the only camera with full bird eye-af support. It works about the same as the R5. Maybe a slight edge to the R5(R6) but overall similar results. If you are going to continue to test the A9II, I've found best success just using Zone AF without using the Tracking option. This is especially true for BIF. Wide AF also works well for BIF. With my A9II I found Tracking Sensitivity set to 1 (Locked On) worked best. The Tracking modes still worked fairly well but if they started tracking something you didn't want to track they never let go and I would miss shots.

[@Duade]

Thanks Geoff, I appreciate your detailed response and that explains the eye ef well. What lens are you using with the A1 and how are you finding it? Cheers, Duade

[@geoffn8963]

@@Duade I have the 100-400GM, 200-600G and the 600f/4GM. I mostly use the 200-600 and 600GM for birds. I use my 100-400 for its closer focusing and semi-macro abilities. Obviously the 600GM is an excellent lens and if one is in the market for that type of lens then it is as good as any super telephoto I've owned in the past (EF 600II, Nikon 500E etc). The 200-600 is also an excellent lens and would be my recommendation for birds over the 100-400. The internal zoom and very short and smooth zoom throw are big plusses over the extending zooms. The IQ is excellent. It also takes the 1.4TC very well if you can deal with the f/9. I found on my A9, A9II and the A1 that the 200-600 performs really well. I did struggle with it on the A7RIV (which is widely reported). I overcame some of the A7RIV issues but still don't fully trust it on that body. But on the A9/A1 it is excellent AF.

[@michaelhains2291]

Duade Animal AF is not designed to work in all the Sony AF modes, mainly Tracking AF. For birding, Wide AF, Zone AF or Tracking AF are the best options. Sony AF tracking works broadly by first tracking the eye (if the subject is close enough), then the head (the face then the back of the head), then the body. With the body it can use one AF frame or several if the subject is moving fast. The camera does this itself, without user intervention. Just trust the camera. With Tracking AF you can use a small, medium or a large tracking point. I usually use small or medium and it reliably tracks the eye. Or even small birds. I can get Rainbow Bee-eaters launching off a perch, at speed, and it tracks the eye. To get the most out of a Sony A9II you need to setup the camera for the shooting environment, Mark Galer and Mark Smith have excellent videos on setting up for birding/wildlife. Feathers and Photos has a whole thread on setting up the A9. I have setup my custom keys to go through the settings I need to consider each time I shoot, it takes less than 30 seconds and the camera has been customised to the environment to maximise keepers. The Sony has many more custom settings than a Canon camera, so this is a good discipline to get into. Once you know these features the camera becomes a weapon. Learn how to use ISO AUTO Minimum Shutter Speed or 'ISO Auto Min. SS' custom function, it can change the way you shoot (see Galer video: kzbin.info/www/bejne/naLUnqSBe997iMk). Also set up the zebras to help with seeing blown highlights before you take the image (Galer again: kzbin.info/www/bejne/foHLdGOup51gf6M). These are Zebras for use in stills mode, and you can adjust when the zebras work (I use them to identify possible blown white feathers). Also learn how to custom setup the camera using the Custom 1, 2 and 3 buttons on the top of the camera (yes Galer again: kzbin.info/www/bejne/rWPIgqVjprZ7g7s) AND the separate Recall Custom Hold buttons (kzbin.info/www/bejne/gaPaoIl3pc91nNU). These are like having macros that reconfigure the camera on the fly, you can completely change the way the camera behaves with a touch of a button.

[@Duade]

Thanks for the Detailed comment Michael, I have followed Marks video to setup the camera and I am using the zone/wide on one button and tracking on the other. I have found myself going to the spot at times as I find the zone af sometimes goes onto something else or has a habit of going on the body and not the head of the bird. The zebras are a good option for sure and have had them on. I am getting more used to it the more I use it. Out of curiosity what are the sony users thoughts around advantages over the Canon R5/6 in regards to birds? Cheers, Duade

[@michaelhains2291]

@@Duade Cost, weight and customization are the big pluses of the A9 over the R5 or R6. A Sony A9 (not the A9II) and the Sony 200-600mm lens combination is fantastic for birding and a lot cheaper than any R5 to R6 with the Canon 100-500mm lens (last time I priced them). I was surprised how good the Sony 200-600mnm was, coming from a Canon 600mm F4. The gap is closing between telephotos and super telephoto primes, but the lighter weight is a big plus. The IQ is superior on the primes but the price point costs you an “arm and a leg” (Sony or Canon). Plus, the Sony 200-600mm does not start at F11 like the cheaper Canon RF 600m and 800mm. I often shoot in low/poor light and F11 is too much of a compromise. The weight and price are appealing, the starting aperture a big negative. The Canon R5 has better cropping because of the megapixels but not much else, for me. The crop mode in the A9 gives a 10-11 meg file, but if the image is well exposed you still get a superb image. It took me a while to realise this coming from a Canon 1DX and the 600mm F4 (which I still have but hardly ever use). I can crop far more aggressively on the A9 combo, if needed. Sony gives many more options to customize, while that was challenging early on, once I learnt the cameras features, I became addicted. I now configure the camera how I use it and not have a camera engineer tells me how - very liberating and damn handy. The A9’s AF is outstanding, while the A9II is better it was not worth the upgrade price for me. I have now used a Sony A1 and it is a significant upgrade to both the A9 and A9II. I never thought I would say the A9 is slow (compared to the A1). Canon has nothing to compete with the A1, so far. People are deceiving themselves saying the R5 can - the A1 is in a class of its own. The A1 is an evolutionary and revolutionary upgrade to the A9II. Very few photographers need an A1’s features, like all flagships (Canon, Nikon or Sony) it is a niche product. The upside is that Sony is quick to roll out new features to lower end models. That will mean Canon must do the same. The issues you are having with the A9II on AF, I do not have. I did in the early stages but as I better understood the AF modes and function, it went away. It seems to be a customisation or technique issue. Going from a Canon 1DX to a Sony A9 was a big step, it is not for everyone. Perhaps the biggest plus was the A9 opened up all these new photo opportunities, where I could go into the field and try new things or pick the decisive moment I want, things I knew the Canon 1DX could not do, or not do as easily. It revitalises your love of photography.

[@justinholding02]

Nice video, you're very lucky to have such beautiful birds in your yard. I think once you are used to the focussing on the R5 & R6, going back to anything else is always a challenge :-)

[@Duade]

G'day Justin, yes, I am fortunate. I agree, it is hard to go without the animal eye once you have used it. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@jan_wegener]

fantastic video mate. I will need to move to somewhere with more birds in the yard :) Really enjoyed watching this video.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes FNQ would have some nice yard birds ;-)

[@TuttleCreative]

Love your crossover between raw and edited/cropped examples

[@Duade]

Thanks, yes they are helpful, Cheers, Duade

[@scrptwic]

Duade I've always liked Tamron lenses I have a old Tamron 75-300mm autofocus lens from 2005 and a Tamron 28-200 I use for landscape photography both are older great lenses

[@Duade]

that is great to hear, this lens is a distinct jump from the 150-600 which is good. Cheers, Duade

[@jordansitorus]

Wonderful birds, beautiful shots as always Duade! I got myself the topaz denoise with your discount code. I was a sceptic but i guess you really are one heck of an influencer lol! I was convinced & thank you! 100% happy with the purchase

[@Duade]

lol thanks Jordan, I just share my experiences and hope that helps others. Cheers, Duade

[@paulinefollett3099]

The light was fantastic. Just so worth getting up and putting up with the chilly conditions.

[@Duade]

Thanks Pauline, it sure was, Cheers, Duade

[@laurelb8372]

Another enjoyable video Duane. So many little birds, lens looks good. Have just ordered Nikon 200-500mm to get closer shots. Much heavier than the Tamron.

[@Duade]

G'day, the Nikon Lens is faster which is why it weighs a little more. Good luck with the new lens. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@denisesavage2382]

Is it still recording . . . . . hahahahahah - such a great little score at the end. Lovely to be able to enjoy the front yard you have. Especially when you were in Vic with covid lockdowns. Great little birds to photograph too!

[@Duade]

Thanks Denise, yes, it is a learning process this whole KZbin thing. Cheers, Duade

[@ForrestWest]

That very slow turn to photograph the Scarlet Robin comes from experience. Great job! I've had to learn not to turn my head quickly when a bird lands close to me especially if I'm covered in camo. I forget that they don't see me sometimes. Great video as always and best of luck to you!

[@Duade]

Thanks Forest, yes I have moved too quick many a time. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@NurIsmailMohammed]

Hello Duarde, currently only SONY a1 has the bird eye AF. Perhaps you can do a review on that camera soon! Take care & stay safe.

[@Duade]

Thanks for that, I would love to try the A1, hopefully one day. Cheers, Duade

[@adidasaddict]

@@Duade Animal EyeAF works on birds with my A7iii but only when the bird is large in the frame, I would guess the same would be true for the A9ii

[@sosomelodies659]

It seems Canon doesn't label theirs as "bird eye af" but it does a really good job at finding it, locking on it, and tracking it.

[@AlergicToSnow]

Loved your video. I recently decided to try the 70-180 and I’m really impressed with it so I’m seriously interested in this lens. I’d love to see a test as the sun goes down and you start to lose light.

[@Duade]

I have taken a number of photos with the lens in low light and it performed well. Hopefully I will show some in my next video. Cheers, Duade

[@TVzenrobot]

What a peaceful video. I just ordered a refurbished copy of the Tamron 150-500mm for my Fujifilm X-T2 - a bit of the old with the new. Not sure yet how that's going to work out but it's a budget rig, and I'm new to bird photography. Maybe the X-T5 will have decent enough subject/bird eye-tracking to stay within the system. Seeing your video on the Sony A7IV made me wonder if you would maybe give the X-T5 a go to see how it stacks up in the field.

[@soumyabratarahut4368]

looking forward to the comparisons!!!

[@Duade]

Thanks Soumyabrata, Cheers, Duade

[@fenraven]

My Sony a6400 will focus on an anole's eye. Not sure why you were having problems with that. Nice pics!

[@Duade]

Theo, I can place the focus point on the eye, it just doesn't track the eye like the R6, I believe the A1 is the only Sony body that has full bird eye tracking. Cheers, Duade

[@NicoGrosso78]

this channel is therapeutic

[@Duade]

Nicolás, glad to hear it is therapeutic, I think my wife watches it to put her to sleep :-)

[@DavidPetryk]

great video thanks for the review and insight on the new lens

[@Duade]

David, my pleasure, Cheers, Duade

[@bestpix100]

Thanks for this, nice images. Would like to see a comparison to the RF 100-500.

[@Duade]

I will be sure to do some comparison shots. Cheers, Duade

[@mykelphotography]

Another fabulous helpful video Duade

[@Duade]

Thanks Mick, I appreciate the feedback, Cheers, Duade

[@TaiwanisMoving]

Great video! Those images looked great, but I'd be lying if the F7.1/8 backgrounds weren't as smooth as your usual F4 shots. Still nice though--I like a little context with my bird shots, especially if it's not distracting. Also, so nice to see your channel mascot make an appearance Was it a paid appearance? (do worms count?)

[@Duade]

Lol they get looked after, yes the zooms will never dissolve the backgrounds like the primes, but they do offer focal length in an affordable package. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@peterrussell7667]

Brilliant review . Duane

[@Duade]

Thanks Robin, Cheers, Duade

[@davidphillips9190]

Interesting review. Totally jealous of your property. Interested in a comparison review.

[@Duade]

Thanks David, I am very grateful for where I live. Hopefully the comparison will be ready in a few weeks. Cheers, Duade

[@debmalyabhattacharya5993]

Great Video Duade. Have learnt many techniques through your videos. Thanks a lot 😊 Wanted your view is this lense good for birds in flight

[@Duade]

Thanks Debmalya, This lens is great as it is light and the zoom can make it a bit easier. It really depends on the brand but the lighter the better usually. Cheers, Duade

[@wildinthejardin]

Hello Duade, one thing you may have not tested or talked about (or I didn't pay attention) is that this lens is capable of 60cm minimum focus distance that is insane comparing to usual big zoom that cannot go as close, so this lens is able to catch birds and deers as close butterflies and bees like my Sony RX10IV (only 1" sensor so low light is not good and this is why I am looking for some far/close capable lens before switching to FF camera).

[@wildcat1065]

Great video Duade, you always latch onto some really interesting topics. I would be interested in a comparison between the Sony A1 with 200-600 vs the Canon R5 or R6 with 100-500 in terms of autofocus and image quality for birds.

[@Duade]

John, that would make a great video, I really hope to get that kit in the future, Cheers, Duade

[@mikalmmd]

This is one of the best photography reviews I have ever seen. I feel like I can watch it again and again, and get something fresh from it each time. Two questions - any thoughts about hummingbirds? and I know what the manual says, but how would you use the three VC modes? Thanks a lot.

[@Duade]

Michael, I have no experience with hummingbirds but I assume it would work well. The VC modes do work well, I think I used mode 1 most of the time. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@mikalmmd]

@@Duade Thanks, Dude!

[@brianbuildsstuffau]

Hi Duade, I hope you're well. I love your garden and wish I had one like it lol. Have you heard any goss on the Canon Eos R7. From what I've read it's going to be quite a beast for sports and wild life photogs. I was looking at buying an R6 at the end of the year but I think I'll wait until I see what transpires with the R7. Loved the video. All the best, Brian.

[@Duade]

Brian, I too would love some info on the R7, the R3 seems to have all the attention at the moment, we can only hope the R7 is next. Cheers, Duade

[@craigb8379]

Interesting Duade. I love that early shot of the Wren on the golden pinacle sticking up through the ground cover and the wren is singing. Will you be doing a side by side review of your Canon and the Sony? Obviously a lot more difficult as the camera has the learning curve compared to trying a new lens, but would be interesting. P.S. some great flexibility there with the way you are sitting!

[@Duade]

Thanks Craig, yes, I too liked that shot. If I have time, I will try and compare the cameras as they are very similar. Cheers, Duade

[@MarkusGebhard]

Awesome review, thank you! How far away from those fairy Wren were you?

[@lachlangraham1062]

Great video, that robin is special.

[@Duade]

Thanks Lachlan, they sure are. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@debroekzakbandiet1844]

Hi Duade, I never expected you using a Sony camera, what a surprise! I'm using an APS-C Sony body and was wondering whether you reckon this lens is sharp enough to be used on a smaller sensor. Also one tip for shooting birds with Sony, I peronally set the metering mode to centre-weighted. I noticed that in the Robin photos, the bird's head tends to get underexposed, and this should prevent having to up the brightness in post-processing. Also, a high-end body like the A9II barely suffers from white clipping, so don't be too scared to overexpose your photos a little, since it often is easier to recover than the blacks.

[@Duade]

I am sure the lens will work fine on the APSC E mount body. It really is a very sharp lens and works well. Thanks for the tips. Cheers, Duade

[@networm64]

Beautiful as always! I'm curious to know your thoughts about the blackout free viewfinder of the A9?

[@Duade]

Shahab, it performed very well, in saying that I don't really notice any blackout in the R6 in electronic either. Cheers, Duade

[@rykhen1459]

Great video sir keep it up 👍👍👍

[@Duade]

Thanks Ryk, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@elliott9052]

Nice one Duade! Would be interesting to see an IQ comparison to the RF 100-500

[@Duade]

Elliot, I will be sure to take some comparison shots. Cheers, Duade

[@bruceterrill8730]

Well done Duade, I really enjoyed this and thank-you for bringing the new 'Third Party' lenses to the table. I cannot understand why Sigma wouldn't get on board with you, because I certainly haven't seen anyone producing videos with Sigma lenses in Australia. . . their loss! Do you happen to know if this lens is going to be offered in the older Nikon and Canon mounts, or is it a mirrorless only lens? Thanks mate. Bruce.

[@Duade]

Thanks Bruce, love the Gang Gang :-) Sigma stated they don't actually do loaners in Australia which may explain the lack of Australian content. I would love for this lens to come to the Canon and Nikon system, it really is a wonderful lens that is far cheaper then the RF100-500. Cheers, Duade

[@kilohotel6750]

Looks like a nice compact combo.

[@Duade]

yes it is, a good affordable option for Sony, Cheers, Duade

[@MrWDCash]

Duade, Another great vid. How far away are those fairy wrens? Bill

[@Duade]

Bill, pretty close, maybe 3-6 metres which helps. Cheers, Duade

[@MrWDCash]

@@Duade Good to know, thanks. I appreciate you mentioning that you had been putting out worms for a few days. I like knowing I'm not the only one who has to work for a shot. Thanks Bill

[@jorgegomezlopez7329]

Thank you Duade...!! From Chile.

[@Duade]

Thanks Jorge, I appreciate the support, Cheers, Duade

[@josephnaranjo8286]

Duade can you please try the sony A1 with 200-600. I really like to see that review from a master of bird photography like you.

[@Duade]

I have used that combo and it was excellent, I hope to use it again some day and make a video. Cheers, Duade

[@Anders49DK]

Laughing my ass off on the outtakes hahahah. Great vid!

[@Duade]

I'm glad you enjoy them, they are always fun to put in. Cheers, Duade

[@p4ul.f708]

Excellent Video ! Really nice to watch :) How do you smooth out your background when you edit that raw file ? I tried to replicate it myself but with my method it doesn't look as natural as your pictures.

[@Duade]

I will do a video in the future about how I do the backgrounds. Cheers, Duade

[@p4ul.f708]

@@Duade Oh, nice, thanks !👍

[@curtisbme]

@@Duade The editing would be great as the shot at 10:48 to the final image goes from "it's a photo of a bird" to "it's a great photo of a bird" so it would be great to see how you edit these shots (as well as how you sift through, manage, delete or keep, thousands of shots per event).

[@MichalMike]

Hello. I bought this lens recently (but for Sony E), and I must admit it is an amazing piece of glass. But when I used it for the first time I noticed, that it constantly emits a whirring sound. This comes from the VC system which keeps the stabilization section centered when the camera is powered on and becomes quieter during stabilization (when af button half-pressed). All stabilized new lenses have similar mechanisms, but the Tamron is louder than other lenses I have (eg. Sony 200-600). Did you notice this during usage? Thanks for answer...

[@kirankumarshetty356]

Hi sir, It was a awesome review... But I would see the great processing in your photos which is great.... Can you do Post processing video for 2021 ... That will be helpful 😉😉

[@Duade]

Thanks Kiran, I will look at doing a processing video in the future. Cheers, Duade

[@GouthamGopal]

Hi Duade... love from India! Love all your videos.... especially for the honest and down to earth nature of them. One question - I saw that you have blurred the background a bit in PP (due to the smaller aperture?). Could you please show us your technique for that? Every time I do that, it leaves an ugly halo all around the selection

[@Duade]

Goutham, nice spotting and yes, I do as you say, I will look at doing a video showing how I do it in the future. Cheers, Duade

[@Scieszkaful]

Hi Duade. Been a fan of your channel and the reason Im wanting to try bird photography. Now cant decide between tamron or sony. Is 100mm that much of difference?

[@Duade]

Kristoffer, if you have the money the Sony 200-600 is the best birding lens for its price and I would highly recommend that lens. If you want something lighter and smaller the Tamron is very good, in fact I was very surprised with its performance. You do lose the full FPS on the faster Sony bodies using the Tamron. Cheers, Duade

[@Scieszkaful]

@@Duade thanks for the input mate. Cheers.

[@Bill3396z]

Nice video. If you get a chance to review a Lumix G9 and Leica 100-400mm combo that would be awesome!

[@Duade]

I have not had the chance to try any Panasonic gear to date but would like to try it out. Cheers, Duade

[@Andy1076]

I've been waiting to see you with this lens! I picked it up recently as my first telephoto and am learning how to hand hold it. 😅 Appreciate the tip on animal eye too, I always forget to do that when birding. For non manual do you recommend shutter priority? 😬

[@Duade]

Andy, congrats on the lens, it really is a wonderful lens for the price. I find Manual with Auto ISO is the best auto exposure mode for birds. Basically, set your Aperture and SS and the camera sets the ISO for you. If the ISO is too high then reduce your SS. Cheers, Duade

[@cesarm8811]

Great video...How do you compare your Canon R6 to the Sony A9ii?

[@Duade]

Cesar, both cameras are very good and very similar, I prefer the animal eye AF of the R6 over the A9ii. I will have to look closely at some comparison shots to see the difference in the sensors. Cheers, Duade

[@Algerie.Football.Officiel]

On a sony A7 M3: what is the best solution? Tamron 150-500mm or Lens sony 100-400 4.5-5.6 lens + sony focal multiplier also 1.4 ?? this is for sports photos Thank you

[@Duade]

that is a really good question, the 100-400 will become a 140-540 f8 meaning you have less light at the long end. Teleconverters will always impact autofocus speed as well. For sports I think the faster autofocus and faster glass of the Tamron would be of more benefit. Cheers, Duade

[@lee-annecarpenter6844]

I watched this video with interest to see how this lens performed. I have the canon r6 with tamron 150-600 mark 11 and I’m still missing many opportunities as the the single shot auto focus frequently hunts let alone trying to focus with eye tracking. Maybe you can suggest a different mode or combination I can set up dual back button focus ? Very frustrated as I’m not sure whether it’s me or the lens.

[@Duade]

Lee-Anne, I recommend watching my friend Jans video on setting up your camera. kzbin.info/www/bejne/Y5_Rg6Sdjdpqh6s The R6 will be very similar for AF and back button focus. I don't think it is you, the AF can be tricky at times. The key is trying to get the subject partly in focus and then engaging the Eye AF. Sometimes I have to manually turn the focus ring to bring the subject into focus so the eye af can see it. I did a video here showing how to deal with some of the focus issues kzbin.info/www/bejne/gmGZnICJjtN5hZY Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@zih5903]

Thanks for the review Duade. Any news on when Tamron and Sigma will be bringing out Canon RF mount lenses. Been a long time coming :). Stay safe. Cheers Zsolt

[@Duade]

Zsolt, I don't have any further information about that, but this lens would be fantastic on the RF mount. Cheers, Duade

[@MMm-hz6hl]

Nice video and gear..

[@Duade]

Thank you, it was a fun video to make, Cheers, Duade

[@DOMINICAAVIATION]

Great video! Have a question. Can an APS-C lens be used on a full-frame camera?

[@Duade]

I believe you can mount it, but I would not do that as you get a very large black vignette in the image as the opening is smaller on the EFS lens. You really need to buy the FF mount lens. Cheers, Duade

[@DOMINICAAVIATION]

@@Duade Thanks!

[@mickmckean7378]

As for animal eye AF on Sony, they were first with that option but haven't yet got it working for birds which Canon trumped them with. Apparently it works well with dogs and cats (it is based on algorithms for face shape I think). Interestingly there have been times when I've been shooting birds with Sony and it comes up with face detection, usually on birds that have a coloured "necklace" that I guess the AF system thinks is a big smile...

[@Duade]

Thanks Mick, I also had it pop up in some testing but took some time. Thanks for the info. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@frostybe3r]

Are you going to switch from Canon + 500 f4 to this setup?

[@Duade]

Good morning, at this stage I will be keeping my R6 and 500mm lens. Cheers, Duade

[@Jessehermansonphoto]

The 200-600 Sony is an epic lens.

[@Jessehermansonphoto]

I don’t think animal eye af works as good on Sony. But I find I don’t really need it either. I switched form Sony to Canon. I’ve had issues with the Canon eye af but I can trust it a lot more than Sony

[@Duade]

Thanks Jesse, I look forward to testing it one day, it appears to be the best affordable birding lens on the market. The Tamron is marketed as competing with the 100-400 as its a lot smaller in size. Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

Thanks for that, I have ended up using Zone AF a lot and tracking on a second button. I also use Spot occasionally as the Zone can get confused at times. Cheers, Duade

[@Jessehermansonphoto]

@@Duade definitely. I prefer Canon for birding and Sony for the Bison and Elk and Moose I usually shoot in Yellowstone

[@VGScreens]

3+ years later is there a better alternative to this that I'm missing? I kind of expected Sigma to come out with something to directly compete with this, but it's tricky when comparing size/weight and cropable image quality. I wonder which lens Duade would prefer today if considering this as a primary?

[@knowyouryoga]

Hey would you recommend this over the Sigma 150-600 especially for af

[@Duade]

Yes I believe this lens is superior to the 150-600 for AF, it was very fast and consistent. The Sony 200-600 is another excellent option but is bigger and heavier. Cheers, Duade

[@Vaquero_interestelar]

Muchas gracias. Podría hacer un video probando el autofoco de este lente con aves en vuelo. También podría comparar este lente con el sigma 100-400. Gracias.

[@Duade]

Thank you, yes I would like to test on BIF but I don't have a reliable area close to me to do it. Yes the 100-400 would be an interesting lens. Cheers, Duade

[@AbhishekIyerPhotography]

Duade, I would appreciate if you can make a video on 200-600mm Sony vs Tamron 100-500mm Video footage sample Photo sample No one really has that video and your video would help many photographers to make a purchasing decision, thanks! :)

[@Duade]

G'day, unfortunately I no longer have the lens so I am unable to do a video. The Sony is the better lens and offers a bit more reach however it is a lot bigger and the MFD is worse. If you want a smaller lens then the Tamron is a great option, if you want maximum reach then the Sony is the better lens. Dustin Abbot did a review of both here kzbin.info/www/bejne/bqvCk3SbdpabedE&ab_channel=DustinAbbott Cheers, Duade

[@stefanschutt8358]

good job greetings from Germany

[@Duade]

Thanks Stefan, Cheers, Duade

[@johanolsson6502]

Looks interesting! Would love to see a side by side with the 200-600mm G...maybe I should of waited before picking up the G. lol Not so sure I like the way Tamron did the strap mounts compared to the Sony, if you remove the foot you also loose the strap mounts. And the push/pull zoom lock is bound to catch the unwary out! Would of loved it if Sony did the foot Arca Swizz compatible, big oversight there! And as stated, only the A1 does Bird Eye AF reliably, I can from time to time get my R4 picking up on birds eyes but it's hit and miss most of the time. And from time to time it will detect a phantom face/eye and refuse to let go.

[@Duade]

Thanks Johan, I think if you can afford it and size is not an issue the 200-600 is a great option. Tamrons marketing is all geared towards competing with the Sony 100-400. I don't think they want to compete with the 200-600 however that is the obvious alternative for birding. Good luck with you lens, I am sure you will get many wonderful shots. Cheers, Duade

[@KurtisPape]

Now thats 1 dream front yard! I noticed a couple Raw files are slightly underexposed for e.g. 7:28 Is this normal for Raw files? because I recently got a Sony, ive been adjusting ISO to what the viewfinder and jpegs look like (don't use histogram), but when I load up the raw files they are really dark, by default im having to adjust a full stop exposure +1 in photoshop which is adding noise. So im having to take pictures that show up over exposed in the viewfinder just so the raw file is correct. I do understand raw files are flat but im feeling like this is strange because my previous Nikon camera the raw files were very similar exposure wise to the JPEGs. Also when I use auto ISO on sony it over exposes heaps and thats the reason ive been forces to go manual ISO, my nikon had no problems auto ISO. Anyway im going to try 'zebras' and learn to use histogram.

[@Duade]

Kurtis, it can be a challenge getting the exposure bang on, I guess I have a hangover from the old days when we blew the whites very easily so I have a tendency to underexpose slightly when I have a bird with white. Thankfully the new cameras are so good that the difference in a stop is pretty minimal at lower ISO. I do think each camera will be slightly different in its metering. It sounds like you are doing everything right. Cheers, Duade

[@KurtisPape]

@@Duade Appreciate the reply, cheers!

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Is the VC good enough for handheld video? VC on the Tamron 150-600 for Canon is so jumpy, it's unusable for wildlife video.

[@Duade]

John, unfortunately not, I'm not sure why it jumps like it does, the RF lenses are far smoother and you can shoot video handheld. Cheers, Duade

[@setaside2]

The 150-600 G2 (and all Tamron SP lenses with VC) has a hidden stabilization mode for video that can be accessed with the TAP-In console. It's called viewfinder capture priority and does a much better job at being more fluid, with less jump and tilt. It is the precursor to the even more refined mode 3 on the 150-500, here, called "framing priority." I'd recommend trying handheld video with mode 3 turned on vs mode 1 on the 150-500. Superb video, mate. I suspect this lens will surprise a lot of people as the reviews come out.

[@sunrayrule]

The notations on the photos say 100-500 lens, I assume it is the 150-500?

[@Duade]

You are right, it was a typo on my part and yes it is the 150-500mm lens. Unfortunately I am unable to change the titles once a video is published. Cheers, Duade

[@bauljgd]

Thank you for the review. How do you do that amazing background blur? Can you make a tutorial on that.

[@Duade]

my pleasure, I will do a video in the future, Cheers, Duade

[@prasannath]

@@Duade Yeah It would be great to see a tutorial, please

[@isotechimages.9130]

Today Resolution Enhance turned up in my Adobe Lightroom allowing you to crop heavily with the R6 & still have plenty of resolution for large prints as it multiplies resolution X4 so hope you have Lightroom at your disposal.👍

[@Duade]

Scott, I saw that, I might need to do some testing but yes it appears it will give you resolution for your R6. Cheers, Duade

[@isotechimages.9130]

@@Duade yes l realise it is not a direct substitute for megapixels in sensor but it is another tool in toolkit & will be interesting see what bit of testing comes up with but appears to make my images a little noisier.

[@Duade]

@@isotechimages.9130 Thanks Scott

[@papimi1]

Schönes Video 👍 Danke!

[@BigBirdFishin]

Very curious how it would work on the new Sony APS-C cameras....

[@Duade]

I have not tried it but I would assume it would work fine on any emount. Cheers, Duade

[@glenwickham6332]

You should do a review of the Canon PowerShot SX70

[@Duade]

Thanks Glen, I have never tried any of the fixed zoom cameras for birding. It would be interesting to see how they perform. Cheers, Duade

[@rmgwheelsspokeslab.7767]

Hi. You do a great job on your videos. Congratulations and thanks. I see we have a very similar shooting style: short bursts. Mention this because I see lot of youtubers and people going crazy about buffer capacity. You see, I set up my D500 limiter up to 50 images and never had a problem. I don´t need 500 images in a row. At the speed that camera shoots it seems you have to do a hard work reviewing images. :) It´s hard for me to decide which to keep. I see you use a lot of cropping at post. Would it make sense for you using a camera that allows you to crop in camera such like Nikons? (And now the Pentax K3-III too. They have a 1.3x crop mode which I use a lot not to store so much empty sky etc.) Regards from Spain.

[@Duade]

and thanks for the feedback, the shooting in short bursts was a habit born out of necessity after using Canon DSLRS for so long which had terrible buffers. Nikon have always had far superior buffers which is great. My Canon R5 has the 1.6 crop mode but I prefer to capture the entire image and crop in post just in case the bird does something, I would hate to crop a wing or miss something whilst in crop mode. I would like the feature I think olympus has in that I would like the viewfinder to be in crop mode whilst shooting but capture the full image. Cheers, Duade

[@generaltso9402]

I've not had a9II animal AF work on birds, just on animals. The a1 on the other hand has pretty phenomenal bird AF.

[@Duade]

Thanks Bill, that is good to know it wasn't me, I look forward to testing the A1 one day. Cheers, Duade

[@LossyLossnitzer]

why do cameras need shutters now? I have many alpha cameras and the need serviceing at ~150,000 shots else the shutter get stuck.

[@Duade]

Lossy, when using electronic shutter the mechanical shutter does not operate so you do not need to get the camera serviced. I don't think many people use a mechanical shutter on the Sony. Cheers, Duade

[@just_eirik]

Did you ever get around to reviewing this one?

[@vitorazinheira2195]

love those F.stops. @ the long end 6.3 now 6.7 future 8.9 11.3 13.5 and so on . LOL

[@Duade]

have you seen the Canon f/11 lenses :-) I think as ISO performance increases and the benefit of the AF on mirrorless there is a market for the slower and much smaller lenses. Cheers, Duade

[@paulclarke4571]

Did you try the A6600 and the 150 500?

[@Duade]

Paul, no sorry, I have not tried that camera, Cheers, Duade

[@paulclarke4571]

@@Duade This is the combination I have struggled with. I sent you an email and an example.

[@Duade]

@@paulclarke4571 G'day mate, I sent you through an email. Cheers, Duade

[@paulclarke4571]

@@Duade I have done some more work and found that I can successfully focus in manual but auto is still a bit off. I will keep working. Thank you for your support.

[@stevenmorales9248]

@@paulclarke4571 Hello I have a question, with the results that the tamron gave you do you think it is more than enough, or if it would be worth buying the Sony or the Sigma 150 600 for those extra 100 mm of reach?

[@kennethcheong4498]

Hi Duade, the real test would be in low light. Thanks for your insights into this lens.

[@Duade]

Thanks Kenneth, yes that would be a good test, I will see how I go getting a shot in low light. Cheers, Duade

[@vuonglv92]

how far are the birds from where you sit? thanks

[@Duade]

In this scenario they were pretty close maybe 5-8 metres. Cheers, Duade

[@360icon]

Scary times- stay safe!

[@Duade]

Thanks Kurt, Cheers, Duade

[@dragonvoices]

I mainly take videos of reptiles like snakes and lizards.Would you recommend this over the Sony 200-600? I guess my concern is the minimal focus distance and it’s ability to film at night.

[@Duade]

If you use a tripod then yes it would be excellent for video and the size and MFD make it a very versatile lens. The Sony 200-600 is very large and the MFD I believe is 2.4 metres. The Sony is a better lens overall and will likely take sharper shots so it really comes down to the size and MFD. Good luck, Cheers, Duade

[@dragonvoices]

@@Duade yea 2.4m does seem pretty far from my subject. This also seems like a better choice for a newbie like me who’s just getting into wildlife videography and doesn’t wanna break the bank on a lens. Thanks for your advice!

[@joshuathomas4934]

Tamron does a nice job.

[@mickmckean7378]

Be careful using that dial to set ISO Duade - you will move it inadvertently and when the action is on you may not notice. For Sony (and Nikon D500) I've been using manual mode with Auto ISO, with front dial set to shutter speed and rear dial for aperture. That works really well. I've disabled the dial spin from doing anything in shooting mode, it's too easy to move accidentally. BTW - this is the first I've heard about this new Tamron lens, must have missed that announcement. I've been wondering why Sigma and Tamron haven't yet made their 150-600 lenses for Sony FE mount, until Sony released the 200-600 there was a gaping hole in the market, even now if reasonably priced compared to the Sony option hey would still sell well. See if you can get your hands on the Sony 200-600, it would be excellent on the A9II.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mick, I appreciate the warning. I have shot this way for some time and not had an issue as the viewfinder on the mirrorless gives you immediate feedback if your exposure is not right and I can see the ISO setting. Cheers, Duade 👍 Yes I would love to try the 200-600, Cheers, Duade 👍

[@m1kel]

setting the sony on full silent would be very helpful with birding

[@Duade]

Thanks Mikel, yes at the time I was so used to mechanical shutter I liked to have the audible sound. But with skittish birds going silent is very handy. Cheers, Duade

[@Rascallucci]

I expected it to be decent. The fact that it was designed for the Sony E mount alone will beat any lens you adapt such as the 150-600mm. I know you finally bought the RF 100-500mm for your R6, I still refuse to do it. I could be wrong, I still think the Sony FE 200-600mm is the best superzoom on the market right now. So, I will look forward to your review on the FE 200-600mm in comparison to the Tamron 150-500mm and the RF 100-500mm in due course. The biggest problem being a Canon shooter is there are still no Sigma nor Tamron lenses for the RF mount. As such, I am still having to adapt the Sigma 150-600mm which is far from ideal. My plan is to wait for the A7R V and/or A9 III and see how their specs compare to the R5, if is good then I will trade in my R5 and go full board on Sony without having to go all the way to an A1 so I can shoot with the FE 200-600mm. But, if the A7R V and A9 III specs don't look good, I will have a tough decision to make either to stay with the R5 and finally get the RF 100-500mm or go for the A1 and of course pair it up with the FE 200-600mm.

[@Duade]

Alex, I do agree with you, 500mm is a little short as your main birding lens on a FF body. The Sony lens does appear to be the best affordable birding lens and I look forward to trying it out. I got the RF100-500 as it is a good second lens to my prime, I suspect I would struggle if it was my only lens. I do think if Canon release an R7 that can go to ISO6400 then it would be great paired with the RF100-500. Cheers, Duade

[@antoniosmarnerospetphotogr5971]

did you check how many fps can keep up with?

[@Duade]

I will check with Tamron as I am unsure how to know for sure. Cheers, Duade

[@irbis8801]

Why in photos written tamron 100-500?

[@Duade]

It was an error on my part, and I cannot update once the video is live. Cheers, Duade

[@kevins8575]

I would like to hear your thoughts about this lens vs. the Canon Rf100-500; sharpness, quality, ease of use , value. Beautiful shots of those busy birds.

[@Duade]

G'day Kevin, I may do a video but my initial impression is the Canon is slightly better however the gap is nowhere as big as the 150-600. The more I use it the more I am impressed given its cost. Cheers, Duade 👍

[@PhotographerSen]

Wowa! That was quick and that was unexpected! Probably the first review of this lens outside Tamron's own promo video. Did they reach out for you? PS. Jump to to 0.30 sec to see a typical Canon user's face while handling a sony body for the very first time...😅

[@Duade]

Is that a good look or a bad look ;-) Yes, Tamron reached out to me and asked if I would like to test the lens, I was very happy to try it. Cheers, Duade

[@PhotographerSen]

@@Duade It's not bad definitely, It's more off 'I wonder what is this tiny squarish thing in my hand' look imo...haha!😅 that was the first thing that came to my mind when I hold a sony camera for the first time! Cheers man! Stay safe and happy shooting in the lockdown!

[@PhotographerSen]

@@Duade Also I'm glad to hear that brands are now looking for you to feature their products. You’ve come a long way in just few months and you've done a good job there!