Great unbiased review. I have the 300mm f4 AF-S and I can confirm that this it is one fantastic lens, In my opinion a classic and one of Nikons most underrated lenses. I use this lens for wildlife and sports photography, mostly motor/ motorbike racing and I can say without question the image quality that I have obtained from my photographs is unsurpassed. The build quality of this lens is superb and I have never missed not having VR, however I always shoot from a monopod when i attend race meetings. A lovely lens made in Japan in the old traditional Nikon style incorporating a sturdy built in lens hood and useful carrying case. More importantly this lens has a low element glass ( 10 elements in 6 groups) which gives images in photographs great depth, mount this on a D700 and you will be blown away at what you can capture. A truly wonderful lens which i can't recommend highly enough. That said this 300mm f4 AI-S lens does have its limitations,.No lens is the perfect lens, its always about compromise and the compromise with this lens is that it has no VR which might worry some people ( it doesn't me) but more importantly it is ONLY 300mm and for wildlife and sports action it may be a little short in the focal range. Yes you can get 400mm and 500mm Nikon lenses but at what prise? Lets face it ordinary mortals like myself cannot afford them or justify buying them, that is why I was so excited when Nikon introduced their 200-500mm f5.6 lens, for people like me this would seem be the ideal, great range, 200-500mm, constant aperture of f5.6, VR. better tripod collar and an affordable price, so whats not there to like ? Firstly it's a zoom and not a prime, primes just give you better images (full stop) and its f5.6 as opposed to f4 and this lens is made in China and I would imagine has a lot of plastic internals (i may be wrong but i don't think so) it also has 19 elements in 12 groups which are going to give you very "flat"images, abet they will be sharp. It's also a very heavy beast to lug around a race track all day with all the other gear that one takes along but if you are passionate about your photos then that won't matter. When the reviewer said "scalpel or Swiss army knife" I took it to meant quality over quantity, You are going to get better images but far fewer with the 300mm f4 giving it's limited focal range opposed to 200-500 f5.6 zoom which is always going to be more versatile. To sum up I am not going to advise you on which lens to buy but the ideal acquisition would be a second hand 300mm f4 AI-S and a new 200-500 f5.6. You could snag both of these excellent lenses for well under £2000, considering the 500mm Nikon would set you back well over £8,000 this would seem to be a real bargain.
@jacobl65728 жыл бұрын
I like my older Nikon 600mm f 5.6 prime for the superb image quality with nice contrast and color. It just take time and practice to focus well with it, even shooting flying eagles. The 1.2X eyepiece is the trick. I loose a few shots but love the challenge on nailing the shoot. If I am after wildlife, I always seem to set my other zooms to the max anyhow, and with my D4 sensor, VR is almost never needed.
@marcosbaumann95228 жыл бұрын
Nicely done Loloho. I agree with your findings.I shoot primarily birds. I got the 200-500 f5.6 and keep my 300/f2.8 AF-I for low light and portrait style photography on a tripod. Both lenses are very complimentary ,and I feel the same is the case for the 300/f4 AF-S. I´m super happy with the results with the 200-500mm so far. sharp, good contrast, amazing color depth coupled with my D750, and the focus with BIF is very good, Im surprised. The VR is just magic ...OMG. Keep up the good work. Marcos Santiago - Chile
@genekied8 жыл бұрын
Love my 200-500mm Nikkor. A recognize many of the animals in your Teton shoots, one of my favorite places to go when I'm not at work in Yellowstone. Thanks for showcasing our area.
@Multiderek20128 жыл бұрын
An important point that was not addressed, the 300 F4 AF-S has the ability to focus much closer. Ideal for larger macro subjects including butterflies, dragonflies, and reptiles/amphibians.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+Derek Eisenhart Thanks, an excellent point. Minimum focus distance is important to me too. (I believe it is addressed in a popup graphic but I failed to discuss it.)
@adamaj746 жыл бұрын
500mm at 7 ft will be much more frame filling than 300mm at 5 ft. So you get more magnification with the 200-500 at further distance, which is good for not spooking wildlife. At any rate, both lens suck for macro.
@TonySahoo926 жыл бұрын
Macro of 300mm proportinal to ((300*0.2703)/1.45) Macro of 200-500mm at 500mm proportional to ((500*reproduction ratio)/2.2) Mathematically --- macro capability is directly proportional to ((focal length/reproduction ratio)/(minimum focus distance)) the lens with greater macro capability number will give better macro result.
@richardjaeck42698 жыл бұрын
Very useful video. I purchased the 300mm f4 afs used in mint condition for $800 about two years ago for surfing and wildlife shooting. I love the lens on my cropped sensor (D7000). 95% of your shots are keepers. It's that good. I have a 1.4x TC which I use often and like the performance as well... You cannot go wrong with the 300mm. Keep up these much needed comparison videos. Note: the photo slideshow is a THE BEST way to demonstrate the performance of the lens you're comparing... Thumbs up for this!
@sameerpathan_6 жыл бұрын
Richard Jaeck which TC are you using ?
@chocloditelensman2 жыл бұрын
Just picked one up for $500
@heikogoettert36442 жыл бұрын
@@sameerpathan_ h
@nickreid59398 ай бұрын
Thanks in 2023..i want this lens for surfing at Soup bowl Barbados.....i have the nikon 1.7 converter......
@CarlyWaarly Жыл бұрын
Hi there, just purchased a mint 300mm f/4 off ebay, boxed and well cared for. Look forward to using it, get both then there is an option depending on what the shoot is for. The 300 comes highly recommended as is NOT an old lens design, it is still manufactured by Nikon for a reason. It it a sharper lens than the Pf version and of all the 300s this is the one to get. Do you really need a 2.8?
@prayutmandal6 жыл бұрын
Very well worded review. The scalpel and Swiss army knife was the highlight. Loved it. Very helpful. Gonna go with the Swiss army knife.
@magnusclaesson58438 жыл бұрын
I got the new 300 f4 PF with VR. I am so happy with the results i get from it!
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+Magnus Claesson Good to hear. Someday I will probably upgrade to that lens.
@bensslightnature8 жыл бұрын
+Magnus Claesson how is it with 1.4 tc?
@magnusclaesson58438 жыл бұрын
I dont own any TC so cant test.
@bensslightnature8 жыл бұрын
Magnus Claesson ok.. if you buy and test, let me know please :)
@chrisogrady288 жыл бұрын
It's nice to have VR but the older model focuses closer, doesn't focus breathe as much, is arguably sharper, and has a fraction of the number of glass elements. Too much glass flattens and reduces contrast
@walklong7 жыл бұрын
Really liked your production - the info bullet pop-ups, the pacing and setting - good job. Thanks, I'm subscribed.
@TheSeanMichael7 жыл бұрын
Thanks! More on the way!
@ishootbvi97498 жыл бұрын
This video just made me more grateful for having the 300mm f4 prime!
@wesamsaka24378 жыл бұрын
Oh yeah your can't compare prime and fast with the 200-500 which I shot with. The 300 f/4 is an mazing glass
@aidi587 жыл бұрын
I have both lenses and it is 'Horses for courses'. I use the 200-500 on a D600 and the 300 on a D750. The zoom does not seem to like the D750's mirror slap. The D600 is much smoother so it gets the Swiss Army Knife.
@leifnilsen61073 жыл бұрын
Very well done video. Thoroughly enjoyed it and the the samples you showed and details provided a future buyer to make a excellent decision on purchase of one or both of these lenses. I wash online looking for the 300mm AF f4 lens and decided to look for video on this. I found your video and loved it. You answered all the questions. I own the 200-500 lens. I have a d810 and the Z6. Works great one the d810 but on the Z6 it is absolutely incredible. The Z6 with that lens has been a big game changer. Thank you for the video.
@MrK670178 жыл бұрын
Ordered a Tokina 300 mm F4. Anxious to see how well it performs. Wanted the Nikon but saw the Tokina for half the price so I snagged it. Looking forward to getting it.
@The_SemperFiGuy7 жыл бұрын
Great job Sean. Just catching this video in 2017 after researching my next lens purchase. I'm leaning towards the now infamous 200-500 Swiss Army Knife, but you give a lot of merit to the 300 Scalpel. I appreciate your comparison and the clear distinctions between the two. Thanks again for taking the time to do a great video. It helps all of us out here become better photographers. All the best ! Gil aka SemperFiGuy Largo, FL
@TheSeanMichael7 жыл бұрын
+Gil Barrett thanks, lately I'm favoring the 200-500. The VR is great and it's usually "sharp enough" for my purposes. 👍
@wesamsaka24378 жыл бұрын
I used the 200-500. Cheaply built and the zoom ring is annoying. You have to rotate 180 degree to move from 200 to 500 mm. AF is slightly slow. VR is amazing
@wesamsaka24378 жыл бұрын
I would go with the 300 f/4 in a heart beat
@averymcdaniel423 Жыл бұрын
I have the 300mm f4 manual older version. I love the lens. I just have issues with the manual focus each time when I shoot. I will continue to try and master the focus.
@atmosphere956 жыл бұрын
I think the 200-500mm lens hood is all right, Light weight makes it particularly suited for handheld work.
@peterhumphrey76494 жыл бұрын
My first lens hood is at the bottom of 200 ft cliff - the second also has a tendency to fall off - luckily not too far so far
@chocloditelensman2 жыл бұрын
It just doesn’t lock in well. Thankful for gaffers tape.
@joeprete74248 жыл бұрын
There's nothing wrong with the 300mm f4's lens foot, but some people feel better spending more money on an 3rd party foot. Whatever makes you happy!
@lonnieclemens80284 жыл бұрын
This is an excellent video! You have good presentation skills. I am currently looking at both of these lenses.
@chocloditelensman2 жыл бұрын
Good review. I have the 200-500 and I Just ordered the 300 f 4. I need the extra stop of light.
@PeterPhamWesley8 жыл бұрын
Great video! I normally don't make comments, but this is a very good video. I have the 300mm D AFS lens. The lens is truly one of the hidden gems in the Nikon line up. A lot of people don't know about it and I wish they did. I bought mine grey market for $950 - and it has been wonderful. Now to be fair the new 300 mm Phase Fresenel AFS also has VR and it vast improve in size, image, etc.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+PeterPhamWesley Thanks for your comment. Yes, the 300 f4 AFS is a gem! I've been tempted by the new version, but I hear many reports of inconsistent VR. Sadly, it seem the VR has problems at the slower shutter speeds where you'd expect it to shine.
@CarlyWaarly Жыл бұрын
The Phase Fresnel is not as good on many levels as this 300 f/4 ED IF, it has more glass that effects the image, sure it is lighter but not a vast improvement at all.
@flyhi27734 жыл бұрын
Really good review and comparison. I breath a sigh of relief having just, and I mean just, having bought the 200-500
@lonnieclemens51314 жыл бұрын
400 mm afs would be better in my opinion. Your video is excellent! Thank you for sharing.
@adamaj746 жыл бұрын
There have been numerous videos and website tests done putting the 200-500 up against the new 300. The new 300 is slightly sharper than the 200-500 at 300mm. That goes away if you put a tele on the 300 making it a 420 f/5.6. As far as the old 300mm that you're using in this video, the 200-500 is sharper regardless or tele usage or not.
@TheSeanMichael6 жыл бұрын
I'm really happy with my 200-500.
@chocloditelensman2 жыл бұрын
Mine is equally sharp as my 300 f 2.8 prime. I can count eyelashes. You must have gotten a soft copy.
@juggaajerry8 жыл бұрын
Very well made video! Watched this even though I know I will be buying the 300mm regardless.
@mohammadvarzideh7803 жыл бұрын
In my opinion the 200-500mm is a super telephoto version of kit lens . I have 6 lens with my d7000 and i still use 18-55 kit lens for walk around . It's not fast but really versatile . I'm really happy with it for 9 years . But that's my swiss army knife and I've never buy another one . For long distance i prefer 500mm pf ( another scalpel) that is really expensive . In this situation i prefer 300mm over 200-500mm .
@JOB-jz9yd8 жыл бұрын
Great comparison and I find it quite valuable, esp. since I just bought the 200-500!!!
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+Tumbleweed Tex Thanks! I'm using the 200-500 on a daily basis and still love the lens. It's certainly a great choice.
@1969zl1vette7 жыл бұрын
Unless you're shooting in excellent light, I would avoid the 200-500 F5.6. I had one on a Nikon D4s, and in anything less than ideal light, the lens would constantly hunt for focus. I didn't have this problem with other comparable lenses (80-400 at 400 F5.6), so I returned it to B&H. A good used 300 F2.8 can be found for about $2500. Couple that with a TC 14 II for around $200, and you have a 420 F4.0. A good used 70-200 F2.8 VR II is $1300 on eBay. Add the TC 14 II and you have a 98-280 F4.0. YMMV so my advice is rent one and see if it fits your needs before you plunk down $1400.
@ancientfishing6 жыл бұрын
I've shot on cloudy days and its actually not bad. Still Focuses pretty well.
@Foxystorm111116 жыл бұрын
I've shot very well early dusk with the 200-500 and never had an issue.
@markferwerda79688 жыл бұрын
I think I'd prefer my "Swiss Army Knife" -- the Nikkor 28-300mm -- I love this lens with VR. Love having the wide reach!
@Gendos11111112 жыл бұрын
Why not extreme non interchangeable lens cameras. The have way larger zoom range.
@sctm816 жыл бұрын
If you go with the scalpel you will need more additional tools in your box.
@blackcat1387 жыл бұрын
everything you said is true. both are such amazing lenses from Nikon.
@gustavoenrique7645 жыл бұрын
Both lenses are great for wildlife shoots, but the 200-500 (that I bought) is very greatful
@jtepsr8 жыл бұрын
god, what a decision. i am getting the d500 in a couple of days but what telephoto to buy is a harder choice. i guess it all comes down to how much magnification do i really need now. i shoot backyard birds so 450mm is plenty but on occasion i venture out i may need more.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+James Tepedino I really enjoy backyard birding myself. The good news is that you can't make a bad decision. Due to a weird circumstance (long story told on my travel KZbin channel) for the past 6 months I've been shooting with only the 200-500. Overall I'm even more impressed with the lens. You give up some sharpness to the prime, but it's still PLENTY sharp for my needs. Love the color, bokeh, and range. It's a great match for the D500.
@6pistons7 жыл бұрын
lensea are tools and peform well for the intended ahootinf tasks. Dor me persobally I wouls pick the 200-500mm purely for the flexibility
@HR-wd6cw Жыл бұрын
Personally I never found comparing lenses like this to be a fair comparison. If you need the flexibility of a zoom, use the 200-500 or if you need 500mm use the 200-500 because the 300mm can't do 500mm and you really don't want to crop in post if you don't really have to (but it is an option). But if you know that your subject will be a certain distance from you most of the time or you can get close enough, then you can probably get away with the 300mm (and if you are shooting with a high-res camera then you can crop in a little in post if you have to, if say, you really need a 400mm equivalent but you had the 300mm on). But they aren't really competitors IMO, but rather different tools for different scenarios. Just how a portrait photographer might use a 50mm in some cases, and in others, a 24-70.
@neilpiper98896 жыл бұрын
Simple if you are hard up get the 300mm f4 afs second hand with a 1.4. I have this on a D300s. Use it on infinity to 3m.Don't get the fresnal version pos. If you are rich and weak get the same lens. I you are Rich and Strong you are lucky. Get the other one.
@bertiewooster40438 жыл бұрын
I have the 200-500mm and it is brilliant and I am pretty sure none of you could tell which image was taken with the prime and the zoom at 300mm f/8 of the same subject.
@khinzal2820 Жыл бұрын
Shooting in f8 with a f4 Lens.
@SuperCanonguy7 жыл бұрын
nikon 200-500 mm lens is excellent plus never had a problem in low light or any type of light !!!!!!!!!!!!!!
@MohanJan19548 жыл бұрын
Nice balanced review. I would go with the Swiss army knife. You have a good voice.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
Thanks much for your comment! Yes, can't go wrong with the 200-500.
@ericfreutel82402 жыл бұрын
Great review! Thank you.
@blackwhite63917 жыл бұрын
Thanks for your Video Comparing to using it with a TC14 or using it with a crop sensor body any notable difference? Thanks
@NystromJohan7 жыл бұрын
Great video, very helpful, thanks!
@jtepsr8 жыл бұрын
Sean i plan on using almost exclusively on a gimbal and tripod so when i get my d500 i will check it out at my local dealer
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+James Tepedino I have always used tripods myself, but the 200-500 VR is so good I find myself shooting it handheld. The only downside is the weight - it can get heavy!
@tpanant20118 жыл бұрын
I recently purchased 200-500 and was earlier using 300 f/4 which i sold subsequently. i find that the images from 200-500 as not tack sharp as compared to 300 mm f/4.
@beslemeto4 жыл бұрын
Use it with 24mp crop sensor camera!
@_systemd2 жыл бұрын
@@beslemeto if a lens is less sharp w ff, it will be even less sharp w the smaller pixels of the crop body.
@beslemeto2 жыл бұрын
@@_systemd 24mp crop is equal to more than 36mp full frame!
@frederikvanreusel4 жыл бұрын
The 200-500 is better if you can only afford one of them like I do, but if you have the money maybe you should get both for diffirent situations
@SKgeostrat8 жыл бұрын
Very nice video. Would you please review the D500 with the 200-500 and new 300mm VR lens. If you have a comparison with the Sigma 150-600, that would be nice to. Finally, where were these wonderful pictures taken? Alaska? Montana? Many thanks!
@DennisTurbay8 жыл бұрын
Thanks for video! I have 200-500 and it's awesome!)
@hanansinger57788 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this info,it is the exact issue i am still uncertain with.....I use D7100 + the 300mm f/4 afs, specially on "bif".the focus speed is amazing,it tracks even better than this lens on my other camera - D610. Since the upgrading focal lenght to a prime nikon lens is not obtainable this new 200-500 f/5.6 is a real alternative. From what I manage to learn is - the focus speed is slower then the 300mm f/4, even if you limit the range to 6mt- infinity. Using t/c is out of qestion ,i was there...it is not a good alternative (as you put it in short). I'll appreciate very much your opinion about how really the focus speed on the 200-500 f/5.6 responds. or if can you make a comparison ? Thanks again and best regards.
@yaseminstore6 жыл бұрын
I bough I will get this week 300mmm f4d , used mint condition 700 usd. Even more than half price of 200-500vr .For me 300mm f4d . Because I need for sport and portraits photography (+ street ortraits ) .goodMacro and Bird photography are bonuses . I do not need to buy teleconverter yet . 200-500vr not a pro portrait lens. but longer . If I have 300mm f4d . Ican sell my 85mm 1.8g what I was using for outdoor portraits. I can buy 20mm f2.8d and use my 75-150 f3.5 Ai-s
@Detjo7 жыл бұрын
Interesting comparison and worth a listen. Thanks for the review. With the new 300mm out now, any chance you can do a comparison of the 200-500mm f5.6 vs the new 300mm f4E PF ED VR ?
@TheSeanMichael7 жыл бұрын
I will try to get my hands on the 300 PF. It had so many launch issues that I held off on the upgrade at first. Hopefully Nikon has everything well sorted by now.
@CarlyWaarly Жыл бұрын
See angry photographer reviews (You tube) on these lenses, he is a no nonsense in your face reviewer.
@vincenterwinphotography42247 жыл бұрын
thx for the info but the 300 f4 afs ed d made in japan how about for purple fringing is this still become a problem to the old lens sir? because i see 200-500 new technology i see good enough but isee made in china,what do u think? which one is the best for birding and candid event photojobs from your opinion? i want to know your opinion for me,thx alot,nice video
@neilpiper98896 жыл бұрын
It focuses even closer with the 1.4 on it
@bojaber83515 жыл бұрын
Best lens for sports photography and street life 850d nikon Thanks
@robertsovich92542 жыл бұрын
Ok now I have it I can’t find any how to use it videos
@ninoliberatore14918 жыл бұрын
very nice ,id like you to do the same with thew NEW Nikon 3oo f4 with VR please thanks
@gregoryrogalsky69375 жыл бұрын
Really great photography..
@DSG08057 жыл бұрын
A used copy of the 300 F4 can be had for around 650 if you play your cards right on Ebay.
@TheSeanMichael7 жыл бұрын
Definitely a nice deal. I paid around 950 for mine (used - 3 years ago).
@brianbasta2937 жыл бұрын
Not bad little video. BUT put the 200 500 on a d500 and it will focus in near darkness! Plus higher iso noise control is so good it will blow you away. For the money forget the 300
@TheSeanMichael7 жыл бұрын
Thanks, I hope to get my hands on a D500 -- heard nothing but good things about it.
@kjgrady7 жыл бұрын
Your review comes at a perfect time - I'm tossing this comparison around myself. I guess my question to you - would it be considered bad Karma to have both? I presently have the 300 f4 prime and I too love the lens. I got a great deal on the lens 3-4 years ago and it's a keeper. I also believe that using the teleconverter draws from the lenses full potential. But... I wish it had VR because I find myself in less than pristine light conditions for wildlife and VR would really help me. I also would like that flexibility to use the lens to approach the subject instead of me and the ability to react in those situations. I guess I could opt for the 300mm prime that has VR but the additional reaching capacity has me leaning towards the 200-500mm. Any comments, suggestions or criticism to my thoughts on this are welcome - thank you for your evaluation. Much appreciated.
@aidi587 жыл бұрын
I have a D600 with the 300mm f4, as above. What a combination! Recently I bought a D750 off a friend at a good price and combined it with a 200-500mm f5. The D750 that I bought did not seem to like the longer lens and so it is now stuck on the D600. The 300mm f4 works wonderfully on the D750. For shooting from the hip the 300 cannot be faulted for sharpness and AF accuracy but the more deliberate shots are more the 200-500's forte. I would keep the 300 and just add the 200-500 to your quiver.
@MrPetebuster18 жыл бұрын
just bought the 300mm mint for less than half the new price, found this video very useful
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+peter thomas Thanks much for your comment, and congrats on the new lens! I know you will enjoy it.
@MrArunavadatta8 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the explanation..
@octapusxft7 жыл бұрын
How on earth do you get that close to all those animals to take such pictures with 300mm
@NalinKhurb7 жыл бұрын
Doesn't holding the camera with its grip when you have the 200-500mm attached risky for the mount? 9:18 Supporting the lens is probably better
@chocloditelensman2 жыл бұрын
No it’s what’s it’s made for.
@NalinKhurb2 жыл бұрын
@@chocloditelensman Don't try this on the entry level models, you might be surprised as to what "it's" made for
@clifblake8 жыл бұрын
Thank you !
@Turboy658 жыл бұрын
Once you use a good lens at 500 or 600mm, 300mm is no longer adequate or sufficient for you. You consider it to be a mid-zoom lens at that point. I would really like it if Nikon made a deluxe version of the 200-500, with more metal in its construction and usage of the nano crystal coating absolutely on every lens surface where it will make a visible or measurable difference.
@patrickvanbaarle34837 жыл бұрын
What about the 400mm F3.5 AIs ? manual lens.
@a2roland7 жыл бұрын
Thank You!
@garyhutchinson34686 жыл бұрын
i just got both to make it easy 😂
@swingmanic8 жыл бұрын
Great video Shawn...I've just tried the Nikkor 200 - 500 (made in China) today on my D700 and then tried the Sigma 150 - 600 (Sport model made in Japan)...The Sigma is a very large lump and with bursitis in my left shoulder joint, was hard work to handle, whereas the Nikkor was just that bit lighter and easier to handle!..I guess the 'made in China' bit worries me, only because it appears the finest Nikon lenses are made in Japan...I don't want to be limited having to use a monopod or tripod and I think over this weekend I have to commit myself as to which lens to buy and I think your video might have helped with the thought process...Wonderful pics by the way!!
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+swingmanic Thanks much for your comment. We all know the "pain" of trying to choose the right lens! If you are concerned about weight, perhaps the 300 is the right choice. I enjoy both lenses but the 300 is much lighter to carry than the 200-500. I haven't tried the Sigma 150-600; my bias would be for the Nikkor, especially given the price difference. Althoguh the 200-500 is Made in China, the build quality seems comparable to my other modern Nikkors, which is quite robust. Good luck! (Oh, and if you can stretch your budget, don't forget the new 300 f4 phase fresnel. Seems a lightweight dream. amzn.to/1JG4rKc)
@KISSMYACE32038 жыл бұрын
I ended up breaking my lens hood and smashed part of the lens cap from about a 2ft drop onto concrete while in the lens "sock". It's brittle plastic, but other than that, it's been a great lens. (The lens itself is undamaged at all)
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+KISSMYACE3203 Sorry to hear about your lens hood! Yes, it does seem a bit fragile and the sock offers no impact protection. Good to hear that your lens is okay.
@sermetagolli62468 жыл бұрын
Thanks for this informative video. I own the 300 mm F4 AFS and am looking at replacing it with the 200-500mm F5.6. I shoot wide life and sports, some at low light. My question is what would you recommend for similar photography. The new 300mm F4 E PF VR or the 200-500mm F5.6. I also own the D750 which I could crop with the new 300 mm for longer reach. Thank you
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+Sermet Agolli The 300mm f4 PF weighs only 1.6 pounds (755 grams) and is only 5.8 inches (147.5mm) long. The 200-500 weighs more than 5 pounds with tripod collar attached. I think weight/size is a major advantage for the 300mm f4 in real world use - it will simply be more pleasant and practical to handhold. If possible, I would recommend you borrow/rent a copy of the 200-500 to see if it will work for you. I LOVE the lens (image quality and VR are wonderful) and it works well for my needs, but it is a handful to carry all day.
@philipandreicuk53568 жыл бұрын
+Sermet Agolli DON'T sell your 300mm AFS for that plastic piece of junk made in Thailand yes it;s smaller lighter has VR but has more glass and therefore more rendition distortion Just keep your old lenses, the imagines that they give you are unsurpassed by modern equivalents
@knutblaise94378 жыл бұрын
Great review. Have you tried the Tamron 150-600? I think it is actually a bit lighter than the Nikon 200-500 but I'm not for sure how the sharpness compares. After seeing your stunning 300 F4 images I'm thinking the Nikon 70-300 4.5-5.6 VR might give me enough range. Have you used the Nikon 70-300 4.5-5.6 VR? I wonder how it compares to the 300 F4. I'm sure the F4 bokeh is better but I'm mainly concerned with sharpness and focus speed. On a totally unrelated topic I've been reading your Living Large in a Small Tin Can book on my kindle and I'm really enjoying it. I want to purchase a travel trailer or fifth wheel which of course requires a longer range lens for all those wildlife encounters.
@stevecook14048 жыл бұрын
Have both lenses, F4 much faster focus and sharper, but the 200-500 is a really good lens overall.
@johncnorris8 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the video. I've tried to compare different lenses and it always seems to lead to which focal length is better. I feel like a lens hussy and a hack sometimes. How do you overcome the desire to jump to the biggest lens and focus on the other features like the f-stop and VR?
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+John Norris Sometimes it boils down to whether you are a prime lens shooter, or a zoom lens shooter. In the past I have favored primes for that extra bit of light gathering and sharpness. However, in recent years zooms have come a long way. The new breed are very sharp. The new VR on the 200-500 is amazing! As far as desiring the biggest lens, well... there's a lot to consider with regards to size and weight when it comes to real world use. For example, as much as I love the 200-500mm f5.6, it's a 5-pound beast that makes me think twice about taking it on a lengthy hike. The 300 f4 weighs 2 pounds less than the 200-500. So, when making a lens choice, you have to consider how you will be using it in the field (tripod or handheld, hiking on foot or riding in a safari vehicle, etc.). Nikon has made the decision difficult, but at least both are good choices!
@MrPetebuster18 жыл бұрын
+Loloho.Photo very true I had the tamron 150-600 but found it too much to lug around as I mostly hike hence the 300mm suits me.better
@stevecook14048 жыл бұрын
One thing you did not completely address, is the 200-500 sharper at 500 than the 300 f4 with a 1.7 TC?
@MBrady19708 жыл бұрын
+Steve Cook the old 300F4 is terrible with the 1.7TC.....the new VR version is amazing with it, as long as you stop it down a bit...
@user-lo3xw6ym5s5 жыл бұрын
Сложно выбрать между этими объективами!
@BigLensAdventures8 жыл бұрын
Thanks for the review. What do you use to record audio, it sounds amazingly clear.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+Özkan Özmen I have the Sony bluetooth mic - it really works great. amzn.to/1j5VwoO
@BigLensAdventures8 жыл бұрын
Thanx sir;)
@quintriggins65578 жыл бұрын
Just get them both. Problem solved. Thanks for the review.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
Yes, this was my solution. Eventually I may upgrade my 300 to the phase fresnel model. It's nice to have both a scalpel and a Swiss Army knife in your tool kit. 👍
@philipandreicuk53568 жыл бұрын
+Quinton RIggins I totally agree for well under £2000 you can snag both real bargain
@vincenterwinphotography42248 жыл бұрын
sorry which one is the best for birding photo the 300 f4 afs made in japan or the new model 200-500 f5.6 made in china? so what do u think sir,buy 300 afs f4 japan or 200-500 f5.6 china? which one is the sharpest n clarity? i still just a little confuse heehee,sorry if my english is not good as u thanks alot would u please to help me give me some info thank u very much
@1969zl1vette7 жыл бұрын
I've been shooting Nikon cameras/lenses since 1979 and in my experience the Japanese lenses are superior.
@vincenterwinphotography42247 жыл бұрын
1969zl1vette thx for the info but the 300 f4 afs ed d made in japan how about for purple fringing is this still become a problem to the old lens sir? because i see 200-500 new technology i see good enough but isee made in china,what do u think? which one is the best for birding and candid event photojobs from your opinion? i want to know your opinion for me,thx alot
@deingewissen_officialАй бұрын
f4 all day
@Lakefilms8 жыл бұрын
How does it perform without VR? I would be using it on a D500.
@aidi587 жыл бұрын
I have used the 300 on a D600 and a D750. If I keep my breathing under control there is no problem at all. Boost your ISO to keep the shutter speed high and you would not have to worry.
@Lakefilms7 жыл бұрын
Thanks! Love this lens.
@thinktank83895 жыл бұрын
Like th e 300.
@davidkozelsky2 жыл бұрын
Weight is relative. One can lose 5lb of fat and take a bigger lense! Haha great review!!! Btw who needs water while hiking!! 🙈
@ancientfishing6 жыл бұрын
500mm easily for wildlife.
@fechetealex75128 жыл бұрын
i like
@WorldsArms4 жыл бұрын
Hello Sir AM From Pakistan Help me Plz Are You From Turkey
@413TomaccoRoad6 ай бұрын
Without watching. 300 f/4. Try comparing the 300mm f/2.8 and the f/4
@CarlyWaarly8 жыл бұрын
Why do they complain about the 300mm lens foot, it was not explained.
@TheSeanMichael8 жыл бұрын
+CSMedia The collar is said to flex, causing blur at slower shutter speeds.
@CarlyWaarly8 жыл бұрын
+Loloho.Photo Thanks, much appreciated. We just got hold of the 200 - 500mm and love it.
@princet80883 жыл бұрын
I'd rather have a scalpel
@jtepsr8 жыл бұрын
Ok thank you
@joeprete74248 жыл бұрын
The price of the 300mm f4 has dropped, since the new VR version came out.
@SpencerDonahue8 жыл бұрын
In the future, when comparing a zoom and a prime it would likely be preferable to simply refer to them as such rather than painfully naming them over and over again. Even just saying "the f4" or "the f5.6" would work.
@ele4853 Жыл бұрын
Poor review. Missed many important facts about these two lenses.
@TheSeanMichael Жыл бұрын
Poor comment. Failed to supplement review with important omitted facts about these two lenses.