Sony 300mm 2.8 Ridiculously Good or Just Ridiculous? Part 1 of 3. Wildlife Bird Photography

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[@njrtech]

Well it's awesome to see you back Mark!! We hope all is well with you . Take care

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Hey, thanks!

[@cesarm8811]

Awesome to have you back Mark. Really missed your videos on KZbin. As always spectacular photos and videos of all the different birds. My favorite is the Osprey, they are majestic birds. Looking forward to your next video.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Many thanks!

[@reddogtwelve]

Totally agree!!!

[@trafyknits9222]

It's not the camera or the lens, it's the man behind it. You are a spectacularly good photographer. It's likely that you could take great photos with a Kodak Instamatic.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@TW-iu9zy]

… yes, but without the camera or lens it’s just a man! 😏

[@mikebyrne8420]

Just a joy to watch. Can't wait for parts 2 & 3. Hope all is well.

[@arshadrahman1880]

Man, so many stunning shots! Lens is undoubtedly awesome, but your eye and skill are what makes these so gorgeous! Can't wait to see the rest of this series!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks so much!

[@awinslow950]

Mark, Great to see you're back. You're videos are always inspiring and educational. Thanks for all you offer.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

My pleasure!

[@dcarson]

Nice to see you are back, Mark! What sets you apart is the storytelling. I love your videos. I figured the trauma of those hacks ripping off your videos months ago might have discouraged you straight off YT. So nice to see you again. (and I also enjoy your honest camera reviews)

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Glad to be back

[@birdyvidsandstuff]

Welcome back - happy to see a real video from you!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

More to come!

[@sapelesteve]

Great to see you posting again Mark & hope that all is well. Happy Holidays! 👍👍🦅🦅🌲🌲

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Happy holidays.

[@SocalBackyardNature]

Another fantastic video Mark! It's great to see some new content. Your shorts are nice but your story telling is what really sets you apart.

[@helencogan2187]

GREAT seeing you back, Mark!!! What a video…thank you!!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

More to come!

[@GeertDelmulle]

Welcome ‘back’, Mark! :-) Yes, those GM lenses are magnificent, and they pair up beautifully with the skills of a Master Storyteller like you, Mark! The results of your video stories are always *outstanding* - it sucks us viewers right in and takes us on a wonderful journey. Thank you!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

That’s great to hear!! I love bringing you along.

[@johnkirkelionis7490]

Glad to see you back. Really missed your truly inspirational videos!

[@haraldstelzer2664]

I am a wildlife photographer, and I have ordered my 300mm and will be one of the first to get it here in Austria. It will be a good addition to my 600mm 4.0., which Í just love it, also with the 1.4 TC. I would use the 300mm mostely in hides, where even the 400mm might be too much as well as for lager mammals. And the 300 is light for traveling fitting in one bag with 600 and second back-up body. Great pictures as always, really hope to get to Florida one day. Looking forward to see your next video with the TCs

[@ErwinChung]

So good to see you back, Mark

[@dersououssala3534]

Thanks for videos and your photos, amazing like always, glad to see you back.

[@carlpollitt]

So great to see you back Mark we up north here have sent our osprey down to ya for the winter so lets see some more great pics and videos !!!!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks! I have been enjoying them!

[@ginafriend1690]

Excellent precise details! Hi Mark. It's been so long!

[@neeraj_clips]

Glad to see you back Mark...Amazing stuff as usual...

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you kindly

[@herdingdog1]

Missed your videos, Mark! So happy to see one come out. Really interested in your take on the lens. I pre ordered it too. 😊

[@keithmacdonald4805]

Great to see you back Mark, you have really been missed!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you kindly

[@BullitTom]

Great to see you back ! I’ve got the nikkor 300f2.8 vr2, I love it. I use it for sports, landscape and nature shooting. Awesome images as always, looking forward to part 2

[@gasbike100mpg]

the mighty 300 2.8, awesome lens

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks !!!

[@erwinargyle264]

Looks like a great lens to travel with. Thanks for posting. Missed seeing your work.

[@yasminnamini6949]

Awesome video!!! Happy holidays, Mark!!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Happy holidays!

[@roycejohnson929]

Absolutely stunning images Mark, great to see you back in action as Nature has a lot to offer in regards body mind and soul ! Cheers from NZ

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Couldn't agree more!

[@MHPloni-kl5ec]

Mark, your work is always a delight! Thanks!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Many thanks!

[@drazantodoric6040]

Mark, this is my first video of yours. I have never seen this level of photography before. And you have a pleasant documentary voice. I especially like the photos under the early morning sun with a warm yellowish-reddish color... and that photo of the drop on the tip of the mother's beak. Score 10...and a big THANK YOU

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Wow, thank you! I really appreciate it.

[@mikebader7356]

I'm repeating what so many others have said. Welcome back. Great review of this amazing lens. Looking forward to parts 2 & 3. Any chance we will see and hear your take on the Sony A9III? So looking forward to that review. Good to see you.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you and when I get my hands on the a93, I’ll make some content.

[@MomentsFound]

I really miss your posts Mark. You are an inspiration to my bird photography.

[@abelfernandez5648]

Ya se te echaba de menos por este canal. Como siempre un vídeo impecable, y como no, sacando un gran rendimiento a este nuevo objetivo de sony, enhorabuena y a por el siguiente.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

😍

[@Beckfrombama]

Hey, yes your back we’ve missed you! I don’t have an A1, or even a Sony but always enjoy your one of a kind and original story telling videos. Great video and captures Nikon D850 shooter here

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for watching. Appreciate it and the d850 is a great camera.

[@ericpneuma2352]

Thanks for the amazing video brother! I'd never stop loving your art 🙌🙌🙌🙌

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you so much 😀

[@GhulamRasoolAbid-rx4jn]

I randomly found your channel but know obsessed with your content you are doing great Love your work.That's amazing

[@OliverZhangjozphoto]

Oh the osprey bath scene really cracked me up, love it ! Thanks for another great video.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

My pleasure

[@TDH_1962]

Your creative eye and hard work shows... very nice imagery. Thank you for sharing!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you very much!

[@Artisticer]

Stunning and artistic photography and wonderfully informative and entertaining commentary! ❤

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Wow, thank you!

[@henrikw377]

Fantastic as always, Mark :)

[@kathleenmccaffery1313]

Love your artistic narrative Mark!! You have so much fun with the Osprey in particular🥹 Devoted fan! ♥️🫶

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@brucegraner5901]

It was great seeing a new video by you. Great work as usual. Really missed your story telling and comments on the wood stork... and appreciated Augie's brief appearance. Any chance you'll be picking up a Sony A9 Mark 3 to go with your new 300mm f2.8?

[@albailey6875]

Welcome back, Mark.

[@woodygreen6826]

Nice set of shots. Mark. Pre-dawn can be a blast. I have been talking up your Spoonbill workshop and am hoping a couple of people I know will decide to give it a go.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Sounds great!

[@dougcooper4917]

Excellent video. Amazing lens. Thank you Mark.

[@MrTmiket0007]

Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always, I was waiting to see your videos with more content than a short 😂👍

[@MarkSmithphotography]

More to come!

[@dougmiller7944]

The image quality of that lens is impressive, But even more impressive is what You can do with it, Your skills and knowledge really turn it into art. You always impress me with your pics and videography. 💯

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you so much!

[@MookieZerang]

Lovely guide. I like how you teach, Mark

[@scottroberson2656]

EXCELLENT ! I’ve been talkin to myself wondering if Mark was gonna do a little take on the 300 mm . Plus kinda missed ol Mark commentary and putting up the settings he’s using getting these incredible shots !! Thanks Mark and looking forward to next video using the tele 1.4 and 2x Well done Team Leader Ol Scotty Kansas City

[@MarkSmithphotography]

My pleasure!

[@Jonathantuba]

Thanks, Mark, for a wonderful demonstration of the 300 F2.8. Shows even at 300mm works great for bird photography and video. I have one on order and it may well replace my 400 GM. Hope to see you for the Florida Osprey workshop when I can fit in my busy schedule.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

You will love it!

[@peterbowler6524]

As always Mark excellent stills and footage.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@leonkirkbride6559]

Fabulous video Mark and great to see you back ! really interested to see how this lens performs with the TC's . Never known anybody be impressed with the x2 on other lenses so that will be interesting for sure . Probably be the nearest Sony shooters get to Nikons lightweight 600mm PF

[@allenfutrelle9090]

Glad you are back, your shorts are great but, they are features. Anyway we can get them we will appreciate them.

[@user-xy5ec4gs9x]

You are the best to promot photagrafy, just ordered myn 300mm GM as bird lower you have to seeing your video. I also saw your 1,4 TC video. Another beauty. We still have the 2TC to come

[@janseneca7366]

My mentor is back🎉❤

[@dddhyun]

Gorgeous creatures and beautiful videos.

[@user-we9kp4xu8j]

Great advice as always.

[@wilduntamedphotography1260]

Mark, good to have you back here. Did you also had your hands on the new A9 III maybe? Cheers Marco

[@meynp4337]

So fun to watch your video.

[@stevejordan9567]

Love your videos.

[@svaphrodite]

I'm always amazed by how smooth your tracking is. Do you always shoot handheld or use a gimbal on a tripod?

[@KenToney]

Definitely on my radar!!!

[@IMDABROWN]

Thanks! I really do miss these narrations.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you! Glad to do them.

[@marycraft5842]

Glad you're back......you were missed......

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Glad to be back

[@georgemason2472]

I just love the power that an Osprey shows as it leaves the water.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Me too

[@johndarcangelo7246]

Hi Mark, Do you recommend the 300 over the 200-600 . IDo you recommend the 300 with the 1.4 or 2x teleconverter for the reach vs the 2-600 at 6.3 ? Thanks

[@Snapshott1]

Splendid and wonderful work as always. The 300mm has some much resolution that I could see the fishing line trailing the osprey/fish in the first scene on a my laptop. Couldn't tell if it was attached to the osprey or the fish.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I think it was on the fish

[@Snapshott1]

@@MarkSmithphotography I hope so and hope the osprey was able to avoid and hooks that may be there. I spend a lot of my kayking time retrieving all fishing line and hooks I see.

[@michaelhawkins1173]

A fabulous pro photographer deserves such a lens and the rest that go to help these amazing images. Have you had a go the new Panosonic G9 with 200mm f2.8 and all the trimmings ? Maybe not. Thanks for the video as always just fantastic.

[@AlexFBuchholzPhoto]

Amazing Images and footage.

[@falcocolumbarius9177]

Thank you for this great video! Already waiting for the next parts ;-) I wonder whether the sony 300mm with 2x extender on the A1 can keep up with the nikon 600pf f/6.3 on the Z8/Z9. I really want a very lightweight telephoto lens and so far only nikon offered these lenses, but I'm already invested in Sony...

[@unaitxo]

Absolutely amazing! How do you get so close?!

[@AnorquisQuinones-nj4lc]

Very original video of eagles, they are my favorite birds, very well edited, congratulations to the author of the Channel.

[@TheGazzadj]

That looked like the fish had some fishing line coming from it as seen at 1:12 and possibly a hook. Just shows how sharp that lens is.

[@wildlifebybrianhoule]

Nice summary Mark! Looks like a great lens! If folks don't sub to your channel after that osprey bit at the end, they are missing out! lol.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

lol thanks!

[@glennelvestad9466]

I hope to see you with the Sony a9 lll soon Mark :) Would love to see have good this would work on birds and wildlife. I have Sony A1, and the a9 lll do not have so many megapixels for cropping. But in Florida you can come very close to wildlife. So then this camera could be great to use maybe? Im a big fan form Norway, and love all your work :)

[@andylewis8270]

Great video as always! Do you feel that the 300 is just tooo short for wildlife? If you have a 400 or a 600 would you still buy this lens?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I thought the same thing when I saw the lens. Why? Then I used it for a week and understood. If you want a small lens for wildlife you can’t do better. It weighs nothing and is less than half the size of the 400 and half the price. It’s a no brainer for me. Add the fact that it works great with both teles and it’s even better. This would be the perfect lens for Africa or anywhere you need to travel light.

[@nature3842]

Can you please talk about what camera you are using on this video

[@CarmenSanchez-hd5mu]

Que hermosura se le ve un color rojo con el sol. Debajo de las alas.

[@luctran7042]

Great photos and story telling as usual, I like Osprey take a bath very much, are you use APS mode this time ? Thank you Mark, TL

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Aps mode?

[@khabarsilva6850]

Too good explanation

[@AaaA-my1ud]

Finally, you updated your video😂

[@stephenbarlow2493]

I just had to watch this. It's about the birds, not sport. Although I've decided to stick with Canon, it looks a unique and fabulous lens, if you can get close enough to birds, to use a 300mm lens. Great to see you back.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks

[@mdmonirul7255]

Awesome .. mind blowing

[@360.Outdoors.Videos]

Hello Sir . I just stumbled upon your channel . I am totally new in video . Your channel is an inspiration for the whole world . Thanks and have a nice day . Greetings from France . ☀️☀️

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@70MVideos]

Perfect short

[@naveda08]

Wow freaking stunning

[@stevenzilverberg6458]

Great video. I miss the normal videos as opposed to the shorts. However, I even enjoyed the shorts.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Glad you like them!

[@satyammahale5270]

Hi mark your work is very nice ,,, can please share me the first bgm please❤

[@gasbike100mpg]

this vid made me salivate (literally) for this 300 2.8 !!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

It’s a fantastic lens!

[@TrueLweek]

Hello! I hope you will include examples with tele convertors. For some reason there are no good test of this lens with TCs on KZbin. I haven't seen one. Because this could be quite interesting option for many wildlife photographers as their primary lens. Not because it is better than 600/4, gosh no, but because it is ridiculously small and light... as well as more affordable.

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I have two more videos planned. One with the 1.4 and one with the 2x.

[@EPNatureWatch]

You Sir should have 20 million subscribers 😮

[@gileselliott]

Ah, just what was needed on a grey, rainy UK day - a dose of Mr Smith’s sunshine. Better now

[@philwachocki7958]

Congrats dude

[@ShohagBiswas]

Sir we need more videos.

[@MaddenScience]

Beautiful! Where is this in Florida? Is this location part of one of your tours?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Yes, it is!

[@MaddenScience]

When is the best time to do that workshop? I'll try to be there!@@MarkSmithphotography

[@joint831]

It is second lens for my A1 (now 200-600)

[@John-hq6em]

You are so great at this Mark, thank you for sharing. I really need to take one of your workshops, I know I would learn so much!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you. Would love to have you.

[@nitinrawat4790]

wow.. these seem like they were taken from a much longer focal length.. SUBBED

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thanks for the sub!

[@bishfrie]

Hey mark, i know the videos u make take a lot or hard work and editing, but when its not possible for you, just do a talking head video from a room, its good to see such a great guy at work

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Noted!

[@MarkSmithphotography]

I didn’t think people would want to see that.

[@AdamCasada]

I'm curious, do you find motion blur when shooting slower than 1/3200?

[@MarkSmithphotography]

If the bird is moving fast and I’m Close

[@cryptographerchris4856]

Ridiculously awesome!

[@petersuvara]

I’m sure you’d get good footage no matter what lens you use Mark. 👍🏻

[@MarkSmithphotography]

Thank you!

[@lucianoleuzzi4156]

good morning Mark, a question: are the videos I see in slow motion made with separate programs or can the Sony Afa1 make slow motion videos? apart from the S&Q function (which does very little) I don't think it's possible...thank you very much Greetings

[@duncangroenewald]

Yes the Sony A1 can do up to 10x slow motion. In S&Q mode you need to set the video frame rate to 240p and the playback rate to 24p (10x slow motion or super slow motion). Resolution is HD or 1080p. Alternately you can shoot 4K 120p and playback at 30 (4x slow motion)

[@lucianoleuzzi4156]

@@duncangroenewald Good morning but where do you set the 240p frame rate since on my menu there are only 50p and 100p? Thank you

[@duncangroenewald]

@@lucianoleuzzi4156 you might have to set resolution to HD first