Tamron 150-600mm G2 Lens | Set up Guide & Sharpness Test for Wildlife Photography

In this video I go over the buttons, features, and set up for the Tamron 150-600mm G2 lens. I also show numerous examples of wildlife images and these shots of both static and moving wildlife demonstrate the type of sharpness you can expect when using the 150-600mm G2 lens. Thank you for watching!
donmammoserpho...
/ donmammoser
My preferred tripod: amzn.to/3qbqHUA
The ballhead I use: amzn.to/48bHagC

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

1 thing I neglected to mention in my review is that you can lock this Tamron lens at any focal length by sliding the zoom ring forward until you see a white stripe. This is useful if you wish to only shoot at a certain zoom distance. Thanks to all those who reminded me of this.

[@marcelojamari9407]

i dont mean to be so off topic but does anyone know a way to log back into an Instagram account?? I stupidly lost the password. I would love any help you can offer me

[@tytommy1418]

@Marcelo Jamari instablaster =)

[@marcelojamari9407]

@Ty Tommy I really appreciate your reply. I found the site thru google and Im in the hacking process atm. I see it takes quite some time so I will get back to you later with my results.

[@marcelojamari9407]

@Ty Tommy It worked and I actually got access to my account again. I am so happy:D Thank you so much, you saved my account :D

[@tytommy1418]

@Marcelo Jamari happy to help :)

[@qc1300]

Good shot and excellent lenses 👍

[@koloasurf2012]

Learned something new from your video, even after I have had this lens for 4 years now. Great video

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Thanks for taking the time to watch and for the positive comment. Stay tuned for more videos.

[@laurenmayhew1256]

I just purchased this lens. So far, I find it takes amazing photos! You show some beautiful shots in your examples. I aim to get that good!!!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi and thanks for watching. Congratulations on the purchase. I hope you get amazing light.

[@orrydebeer]

You can lock het lens at any focus lenght you want. Just push the ring(with the numbers 150, 200, ... 600), on which you extend the lens, to the front. Woensdag you see the White ring show up, the lens is locked at that focal lenght.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Ahhh, you are correct! I also had the older version of the 150-600mm and that one only had the one way to lock the lens, but the G2 has the push locking like you described. Thanks for the reminder.

[@thedavises9420]

I just got this lens, and while I read the print material with it, your video explained a couple things I couldn't quite get. Thanks!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, glad I could help. Thanks for taking the time to watch.

[@costergumede9457]

Hey Don...Man you've got the business... video well articulated.. Your photos are absolutely fantastic! Many thanks!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

@@costergumede9457 HI Coster, I thank you for watching and for the positive feedback. I do appreciate it! Hope your light is great!

[@RAMBLE_ON]

Purchased Sony a9ii with Sony 200-600mm. Saw your video and decided to get my Canon 7dmkii with Tamron 150-600mm out of the closet. Great tips and great pics.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey George, Yeah, I also moved to mirrorless with the Sony A9II. Still, I had many years of good shooting with the Tamron 150-600mm and a Canon body. Thanks for watching.

[@dcfromthev]

Fantastic video thanks so much! I just got this lens today and I am beyond excited to test it our tomorrow!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Anytime I get a new lens is a great day. Enjoy and have fun!

[@MarkA500]

I just purchased this lens a couple days ago. I love it

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi 500MXM congrats, it is a fun lens to have. I hope all your light is great and the wildlife cooperates. Thanks for watching.

[@gkkonstantin8996]

The Best review,great work, finally with samples

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, no problem and glad you liked the video. More on the way, stay tuned.

[@sg_simulations6344]

Been photographing for some years but a first time for me with such a big zoom lens. A couple of times using this lens has yielded some okay photos. But I'm glad to see that it does actually have the capabilities to get sharp pictures. I must be using it incorrectly then as all of my shots took a lot of work in post to achieve but a fraction of the sharpness you're achieving! I thank you for your video. Your cracking shots have inspired me to get out and do better.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, thanks for watching and for the comment. Yes, the lens does give good results but does require some proper technique to do so. I have 23 years as a pro so I am well versed in technique. Best of luck and keep at it...it sure is fun!

[@AJITEM]

Your shots are really stunning.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, I appreciate your positive comment. I also appreciate you watching my videos. I hope your light is magic.

[@hp2084]

Mode 3 of VC is it wont activate unless your are taking a picture, which means it acts in conjunction with the aperture blades.

[@KimDiscoveringHistory]

A beautiful video capturing your countryside wild life. Those images really pop and the detail is incredible. I have owned this lens for just over 4 months now and have no complaints to date. Our weather here in the UK has been somewhat misty and cloudy, but the Tamron deals with this wonderfully and yes, often the images do end up a little soft, it still produces some amazing shots. Subbed to your channel. Best wishes to you.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Kim, Thanks so much! I really appreciate hearing such positive comments and can't thank you enough. Here's hoping your photography brings simple joy!

[@golamashraf1464]

After watching your excellent images, it struck me that I would rather get a fast long lens to pair with my Nikon D500, than go hunt for a mirrorless camera... especially as I am now more in the midst of beautiful landscapes and wildlife here in BC Canada, than people and performances. Thank you for sharing your amazing shots!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Golam, I think you've made a good decision. Good glass is always nice to have and I'm a true believer in making what you already have work for you. The D500 is a fine camera. Paired with the right lens you'll be set up. Thanks for taking the time to comment.

[@sfilms6442]

Thanks for the great review. Beautiful shots as well!

[@Andy_Leored]

Wow! Thanks so much for the tips! I never get sharp with this lens because of wrong setup whole this time! wow, Thankyou!!!!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Andy, super glad I could help you out. Practice and proper set up will yield nice images.

[@berkaykaanozcan]

hello, is it water resistant? Is it possible to shoot in the rain?

[@jeffellis6544]

You don’t use the VC while on a tripod do you? Or, if on a gimbal head that allows you to move with the subject, can you still use VC?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. I've moved on from this lens to a Sony system and Sony 200-600mm lens. But, no I turned off the VC when on a tripod when I did use this lens.

[@18eleanor]

Thank you so much for this video. I just got my lens today. I went to the lake Abba about some mallards. I thought for sure I was going to have track sharp images, but I was disappointed. I know it's me. I tried a higher iso for faster shutter. AV mode, manual mode. What do you shoot in for your bird and action shots, if you don't mind sharing? Thanks. Incredible clarity!

[@benjaminthomas6585]

A excellent review of this popular lens, I have had and used with success for a few years, Initially I had problems but recommendations from a expert .When doing a Micro adjustment and all DLSR and nearly always need this , After the initial test with the camera is is advisable to transfer Via the Tap in Console the data, and emit it from the camera body. I have photos to prove the effectiveness of this method, I shall look forward to many more of you excellent videos

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Benjamin, Thanks for the nice comment. I was happy that my lens was sharp right from the start without the need for micro adjust. Stay tuned for more videos.

[@japeprasad]

Nice Sweet and short video. I am going to try VC3. Can you add more on camera settings for Sharp pictures of wild life?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. I've since switched to Sony and have a host of videos explaining my camera settings: start here: kzbin.info/www/bejne/h5elY5iFhpmFf80

[@bikashpathak3229]

Do you think 800mm f11 on a apsc camera without ibis like canon r50 can take some great pictures in normal day light than 150-600m gen-2 f6.3 crop in as 800mm. i want to try 800mm f11 on canon r50.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, thanks for watching. No I don't like the idea of adapters to make this lens work. You're much better getting a native mirrorless lens for a mirrorless camera.

[@18eleanor]

Thank you. I'm excited to use my new lens. I'm trying to find the quick release that you used in your video with the arm that you pulled up and put your foot in there, and locked it down. I can't seem to find that mechanism anywhere. I clicked on your ballhead link but it doesn't show the one with the arm that you have. Thank you

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, that one is made my 4th generation designs. Not sure they are in business anymore. It is very much like a Winberely Sidekick. Try and find one of those or a similar product. Have fun and may all your light be magic

[@18eleanor]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thank you so much. I'll look into it!! Happy photographing!📷

[@MathieuBeaulieuAsperger]

Hello, thank you very much for your video. I have a question, how do you get so close to the birds? I have been doing wildlife photography for 10 years, I have never managed to get so close to birds. Do you stay in hides with water points? If not, what is your technique? Thanks 🙏🏻

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi and thanks for watching. I never spend any time in hides. Really, my technique is just to go where the birds are used to seeing people and don't view us as a threat. This makes things much easier. Come on one of my photo tours and I'll take you to many such spots. Otherwise, have fun.

[@hp2084]

You can move your zoom ring forward and lock your lens at any zoom.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Yeah, I pinned a comment about that at the top of the comments section, thanks for the reminder.

[@diegocarena-santiago9484]

When you say get close, how close do you usually get to these common birds?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, thanks for watching. Sometimes I can get within 1 meter of some of these species. That is even too close to focus!

[@diegocarena-santiago9484]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Awesome! What's the furthest away you think you could be while still getting sharp details?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

@@diegocarena-santiago9484 Hey, that question depends a lot on the light and conditions. Atmospheric heating can cause blurry photos when the subject is even 10 meters away. I find that this happens more though when the subject is say, 30 meters or more away from me. If the air is clear and no heat is rising, any distance can be fine.

[@skalco88]

I own the g2 and the 400 5.6. (my machines are 80d and 5dsr). When shooting in BIF, 50% of the photos are blurred. the times never go below 1/2500, and ONLY if I find myself freehand I always use vc mod 2 (for stationary subjects instead vc 1 or 3). I realized that the biggest problem with this lens is the continuous refresh during the tracking of the subject (the autofocus briefly loses the subject and then hangs it up). This continuous refresh during the chase then inevitably causes problems when you press the shutter button, leaving you with a lot of choppy shots. With the 400 5.6 this HAPPENS MUCH MUCH LESS, because the af is simply better and more reliable. the 400 5.6 can be considered much more "sniper" from this point of view. the g2 hook the subject very quickly, but the real problem is that it is very hard to stay "hooked" during the chase. for static animals is good tamron g2, but not for bif

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, I tend to agree with your assessment. I am able to get sharp BIF but not as many keepers as with some of the other lenses I own. I do use VC mode 3 though and find with slower shutter speeds it works best.

[@skalco88]

@@DonMammoserPhoto vc1 and vc3 are good only for static subject (the stabilizer works on both axes), but for bif it is advisable vc 2 (panning vc), because it work only with vertical axis

[@johnnyroncinske8403]

I just purchased this lens and find it a little soft on the focus for distance 100Yards or so.. I use the lens with a D850 and am wondering if there are adjustments I can make or what. Going to try and get some birding shots this weekend, then I can make a better assessment

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Johnny, thanks for watching. Don't forget that no matter what lens you use, when you photograph something far away you'll be shooting through lots of atmosphere. If it isn't crystal clear air this alone can make for slightly blurry images. I find that (obviously) closer subjects yield better results.

[@photographerswithoutborder7302]

it's absolutely fantastic lens tamron

[@okidoke4822]

thanks. hopefully this will improve my shots

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, thanks for watching. Maybe, but I've since switched to a Sony system. The AF is amazing.

[@Ty94797]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Canon autofocus , especially for latest cameras and R5 are also amazing. R3, R5 and R5 mark II are just unbeatable wor wildlife photography ( with Nikon Z8 and Z9)

[@williamvesterberg1107]

Hello. I bought this lens recently and i cant get sharp photos, i tried with manual focus at a stationary object at 10 meters away, 600mm 2 second timer, 1/600th f/8 and its blurry not sharp. What can i do to correct this problem. Im also shooting on mirrorless so no need for af microtuning.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hmm...I don't know. Sounds like you are doing things right. Maybe have it checked out professionally at a camera shop? I've since sold mine and I now use the Sony 200-600mm lens on a Sony A9II.

[@RA-tw1wz]

Thanks Don for this valuable information about this lens, I was confused about the sharpness of this lens and I was not able to choose between tamaron VS sigma 160 600 , but I think after I watched your review about tamaron I will chose the tamaron g2 lens

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. The Tamron G2 is a very nice lens and I had many years of positive results with mine.

[@johnyates670]

Did you calibrate/fine tune/micro adjust the lens to your body(ies)?

[@pankajs271178]

Hi! Wonderful video. Thanks. How is the performance of this lens on M50 Mark2?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, thanks for watching. I can't answer your question as I've recently changed camera systems to a Sony and no longer have my Tamron 150-600mm lens.

[@derekshearer9049]

There is a lock ring on barrel that you can lock at any zoom point

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Derek, Yes, indeed you can lock the lens at any focal length by pushing the zoom barrel. Thanks for reminding us.

[@Ruslan_davudov_photography]

How about in front of Canon R10?(With an adapter ofc)?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi thanks for watching. I don't think that would be good. Anytime you use adapters to make something fit the AF speed and accuracy suffers.

[@donaldkelley5785]

Excellent Review, Don !

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Donald, Thanks for taking the time to watch and for the kind comment.

[@denbyscott5745]

I believe you can lock zoom at any point by sliding the zoom ring forward?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for the reminder. You are correct and I've pinned a comment up top now so everyone can remember this feature.

[@blezvarghese]

Amazing work! I do use the same lens with Canon 80D but the results i get is not sharp at all. I use shutter speed 1/1000 or more and still the same result. The focusing is correct and noise is okay. Anyone can help or are in the same shoe?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Blesson, thanks for watching. I have now changed to a Sony camera and Sony 200-600mm lens. Sounds like you are doing things right. I'm not sure the 80D can drive that Tamron lens quick enough for precise focus.

[@dannydriscoll9744]

I use the 250D and was having similar issues. I saw a few videos by a guy called Duade Paton and he said the best aperture to use is between F9 and F11, his test photos were done at F8 which were also sharp. You will have to compensate with your ISO but I’ve been using manual with auto ISO and have set the SS to about 500 and have been astonished at the difference between F6.3 and F9! I should also note that I’ve used the Tap in console to alter the focus points at various focal lengths. I hope this helps :)

[@robertbohnaker9898]

Hi Don. How do you rate the Cannon 5D mk IV and Tamron ? I’m saving my money for an affordable birder combo, and I’m leaning towards a Sony a6400/6600 Sigma 100-400 combo. I notice you don’t mention Sigma in your shooting. Is there a reason ? What would be your suggestion for an affordable birder set up ? I even considered the Cannon 5dsr but read about some pretty scary issues with that camera. Thanks 😊

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Robert, Thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. I used the Canon and Tamron setup for years with pretty nice results. Trying to get into some much faster action stuff made me look into other set-ups. I went with a Sony system and will never look back. If you can possibly afford it I'd recommend the a6600 and the Sony 200-600mm lens. Amazing combo! Here's my set-up for that: kzbin.info/www/bejne/mIenhnipgdaAftE and here is another video with lots of example photos: kzbin.info/www/bejne/eoaUi6eMYs51grc This may cost a bit more but totally worth every penny.

[@Rich-Reacts-2024]

Thanks for the video Don. I love my 150-600 G2. What f stop to you find to be the sweet spot for wildlife?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. I never hesitated to use it wide open but did find f/8 to be a tiny bit sharper.

[@FollowThomas]

Nice overview of these lens. Thanks 😊

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Thomas, no problem. Thanks for taking the time to watch. That lens is very nice for wildlife photography!

[@sottheaphoeurng9044]

Hi sir I heard a lot of people mentioned how slow Tamron 150-600mm G2 adapted on canon eos R system. I own Canon R5, I'm not sure whether I can should get that or not. I tested Sigma 150-600mm is very poor autofocus performance.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Sotthea, I wouldn't do that. You'll find that AF performance will be very slow and almost unusable with any sort of adapter. You should get a native lens for your R system.

[@garymeredith2441]

Done do you happen to have any sight that people like me can go to to really improve the sharpness of this lens because I've had it for 4 months now and I can't get anything out of it I'm almost ready to trade it in .

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, I'd suggest doing a sharpness test yourself with tripod and controlled conditions. I'm sure there are videos on KZbin to explain. I have since moved on to a Sony system with Sony 200-600mm lens for my wildlife photography.

[@garymeredith2441]

@@DonMammoserPhoto I think that's what I should have done .

[@bkc1965]

Very informative video. Quick question: are you able to remove the Arca-Swiss mounting plate to use with a Manfrotto quick release plate?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, not really convenient to do so. You could remove the entire lens ring setup but not sure if there is one that exists for the Manfrotto heads. Better to simply screw on a Manfrotto plate into the two pre-drilled screw slots found on the bottom of the existing lens mount ring.

[@errolsabile5990]

wow! amazing shots there..just wanna know what your common settings and the nearest distance you can get to the birds, because your images are so sharp and details are so fine. I use the same lens too. been using it for 2 months already, I just wish I can have better results like yours..thank you sir! have a nice day...

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Errol, thanks for watching and for the nice comments. My normal (90% of the time) settings are that I shoot aperture priority with the lens opened up all the way (f/6.3@600mm) or perhaps f/7.1 or f/8, I choose my ISO (not normally on auto ISO) of around 200-1600, I have the AF on continuous focus and the VC on if shutter speed is less than about 1/1000sec. The lens performs better when the bird is close and the MOD (minimum object distance) is 2.2Meters. When I can get that close the results are amazing. Practice practice practice....and have fun!

[@errolsabile5990]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thank you for your reply sir and especially your advice, I would definitely try it 😊I completely agree, practice and more practice 👍

[@tonyboy666]

Would like to see infos on your photos such as aperture, ISO and speed to have a better idea at what parameters you can get such sharp images. Impressive as maybe 5D Mk IV simply outpowered my 90D?!?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Tony, thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. In general I can say that my aperture is normally opened wide (f/6.3 at 600mm) to get the fastest shutter speed possible. I might take it to f/7.1 or f/8 once in a while if shooting in strong light. My ISO I usually try to keep below 1600 as this keeps the noise to a reasonable level. And most of the images shown in the video were shot at the 600mm mark on the lens. Of course with most wildlife I still need more zoom but 600mm is a decent amount. With your 90D you'd have the equivalent of 960mm of power. Sometime when shooting through that much atmosphere, images can blur just from atmosphere effects (heat rising etc.). The 5D IV is a more powerful camera but no reason you shouldn't be able to also get some excellent results with a 90D.

[@tonyboy666]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thanks for your reply. It's quite hard to get so sharp images at the max aperture though. I often use f/8 instead of the max of f/6.3 at 600mm but then again, it's still kinda soft and blurry when zoomed in. I will try more between f/9 to f/11 if the light allows me to without going to high in ISO and getting too much noise. The quality might rely also on the good combination of lenses and body. I also use 7D with Tamron G2 150-600mm when I keep the best combo for 90D and the Canon EF 100-400mm Mk II

[@raghavendranandyala9488]

Hi Don. Thank you for the great video. Can you tell me what f stops you feel are good at full 600mm range and at close range?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Thanks for watching. Sure, I feel fine using f/6.3 which is wide open but I also stop down to f/7.1 or f/8 as well. All are sharp but of course if the subject is close the images are generally sharper.

[@JAYCPRUDZ]

Hello there! Just asking if the auto focus speed is acceptable specially in 600mm focal lenght. I heard about some bad reviews about af speed in this lens when compared to the other third party brand. Thanks

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi There, AF speed was always super fast and more than acceptable. I've since moved on though to a Sony 200-600mm lens and Sony system which is even faster and more accurate.

[@rinku533]

Wonderful review

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Thanks for taking the time to watch. You are welcome.

[@hemmieverbeek]

Great video thanks 😁 i have bought the D500 for wildlife and i am thinking about this lens, do you know if it can get the same quality as the nikkor 200-500? The 100 extra reach isnt a bad thing

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for taking the time to watch. I have used the Nikon 200-500 in the past and it is excellent at all focal lengths, though it is a VERY heavy lens. I'd have to say that with the D500 the 2-5 would probably be a bit quicker to focus compared to the Tamron. If price were about the same I'd probably opt for the native Nikon lens if you can give up on the extra 100mm of focal length.

[@ArcanePath360]

Holy crap those images are devine. I'm bidding on this lens right now. I hope if I win it doesn't turn out to be a lemon. I'm hearing lots of things about inconsistent quality and you might be lucky or not with your copy.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey thanks for watching. Yeah I had a lot of good years with my copy of that lens. I've since moved on to a Sony camera and Sony's 200-600mm lens and using Tamron's 150-500mm lens for Sony as well. Hope all your light is sweet.

[@ArcanePath360]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thanks. I'm only a light user and not looking to spend a fortune, this lens seems good enough for me as a complete wildlife amateur. Most of my money is in portrait lenses but I want to get out more now I have wildlife photographer friends.

[@Jonobrook123]

Do you switch VC off at high shutter speed even when it isn't on a tripod and if so why please?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Jon, thanks for watching. Yes, I do switch off the VC even hand held at higher shutter speeds. Reason is that I've found that the VC "kicking on" actually takes time and when the shutter speeds are fast enough that little bit of extra time for the VC means you miss some of the high action shots.

[@rgman2858]

Did you fine tune your lens? I have the same lens and cannot get anywhere close to as sharp of shots. Sorry saw you say you didn't, would you mind sharing your settings for any of the birds in the beginning like the night heron? Those are incredible shots. I'm shooting with a d500 and this lens but struggle heavily with sharpness. Seems my lens is missing focus on the center focus point instead it hits slightly above and to the left

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Thanks for taking the time to watch. That night heron shot settings were: AI Servo focus (continuous), ISO 800 lens at 600mm f/6.3 and 1/1000 sec. shutter speed. I have a LOT of experience and also practice a ton as well. But my copy of the lens just seemed to be right on from the beginning. Sounds like perhaps your lens does need some fine tuning. Have you tried focus calibrating it? Try photographing a ruler placed leaning away from you at an angle and remember which number or line on the ruler you focused on and see if that part is then sharp when reviewing the image. If not, you'll need to adjust the focus.

[@danielthomas7747]

Hi just a question, did you have made some custom setting using the TAP-IN dock? and did you have made micro adjustment of the lens in your CANON 5D Mark IV? Nice review by the way....

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Daniel, thanks for watching. No custom settings at all. I don't own the tap in dock and I never needed to micro adjust my lens...it just came from the store ready to go. I do practice a lot and I've been shooting professionally for over 20 years.

[@observantrider5775]

Can this lens be good with canon 850d? Thanks in advance!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, I don't think your results with that camera will be so good. Those Rebel series cameras don't really have the AF ability that you'd want. Now if you only photographed static subjects, then maybe, but forget about anything that's moving.

[@fabianvm7]

I am not able to get such results yet with mine, I have that same lens but on a Canon 6d mark II. Do you think its the body? Also, do you have any tips on how to get that close? 2m from a bird is insanely close for me. Also, great work on you photography.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Fabian, thanks for the comment. Your lens and camera body should be capable of getting excellent results. I've used my Tamron 150-600 G2 on a 6D mark I, a 60D and a 5D IV. Don't forget that I have 23 years of experience as a pro and I get out and shoot a lot. As for getting close to birds, this is always something I wish I could do more but in certain places it just isn't possible. In other places where birds see a lot of people 2m distance is very easy and I tend to try visiting such places as often as I can. So much easier when the birds don't see you as a threat.

[@thomashansen9361]

Hi Dan. Have you calibratet the lens via the tab-in console ? Or did it work fine with factory settings ?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Thomas, I never had to calibrate my lens. It always worked perfectly from day 1.

[@franciscoarreygue7838]

Hello Don, Great video. I have a question regarding hand holding the lens. DO you turn off VC while you hand hold the lens and shooter speed is above 1000?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Francisco, thanks for watching. Yes I do normally have the VC off when I get those higher shutter speeds, even while hand holding. Though it still helps to brace your arms and try to be as smooth as possible with the shutter button push.

[@franciscoarreygue7838]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thank you

[@cristobalcarrenoparada3143]

Hi Don, thank you so much to share your expirience, i have a question. What type of gimbal do you use to stabilize the camera? I am looking for one

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Cristobal, When using a tripod I use this setup: kzbin.info/www/bejne/jJXTp2yEZ8qji6s That I talk about in the accompanying video.

[@csanadlizsicsar7942]

Hi Don! Can i ask what kind of tripod do you use? Amazing video!

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Csanad, thanks for watching. Sure, I totally believe in using a good tripod when possible. I use an Oben tripod and specifically this one: www.obensupports.com/product/3252/Oben-CT_2491-4_Section-Carbon-Fiber-Tripod-Legs It is a big tripod but I am a tall person and need the tall height sometimes. I plan to do a new video soon which tells about the tripod features I look for and think are necessary. Stay tuned.

[@Kamkashi]

Nice informative video, and great pictures ! I guess you used a gimbal to have such sharpness, but are the pictures you are showing out of the box, or do you have applied post-processing to enhance the sharpness/brightness ? Have you tried handheld shooting with it and is it good enough ?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Kamil, Thanks for watching. Actually most of the time I hand hold that lens because this allows me to move around a lot easier. I'd say 80% of the photos are from hand held. I also shoot jpegs and don't do a lot of post processing. The lens is very good in all aspects.

[@18eleanor]

​@DonMammoserPhoto Wow, so surprised you shoot in jpeg. Nice to know 80% handheld. Thanks for this great video and your excellent samples

[@anguspollock7529]

Is it possible / easy enough to use this lens hand-held? I'm saving up to buy one at the moment but I don't currently have a tripod setup to use it with. Should I wait until I can afford a tripod as well? I'll mostly be using it for bird photography.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Angus, Thanks so much for taking the time to watch and comment. Yes for sure this lens is excellent for hand held. I use it that way for perhaps 80% of my work. I find that I can really move around a LOT easier when hand holding. The VC is great and works for slower shutter speeds, even hand held.

[@fotoemozioni76]

Hi Don, just a quick question, did You had to calibrate the lens before shooting or it worked well out of the box? I bought the same but on my 5D Mark III the autofocus is terrible, it seems to suffer of a big pre-focus issue. :-(

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. As your experience shows, sometimes lenses vary with regards to focusing. I've had this happen as well but I did get a really good copy of this Tamron lens and it was focusing properly right out of the box. Try doing a micro adjustment in camera for your copy.

[@fotoemozioni76]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thank You

[@rohanbh4290]

Such a detailed video! Thanks for this content! Am confused between the Tamron G2 and the Sigma 150-600 Sports for Canon EOS R6 (mainly birding). Any suggestions please ?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for taking the time to watch. I've heard good things about the Sigma lenses but sorry I only have experience with the Tamron 150-600mm G2 and it is excellent. Not sure how it will work with the necessary adapter to go to the R6 so perhaps you might think about renting one first for a week before an outright purchase. If you rent it and it works great this makes decisions easier. Good luck.

[@tweedcoastopen2view281]

How did you got with it on the R6

[@johansuetens5213]

Great Stuff! Did you shoot most of the pictures off a tripod?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Johan, thanks for taking the time to watch. I'd say that 80% of the time I am hand holding. I find that this gives me much more flexibility to move around for wildlife. The VC on that lens works really well.

[@johansuetens5213]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thanks for your swift answer. Just bought it. Let’s shoot. And I’ll keep an eye out for your video’s.

[@earlw33]

Very good information. Thanks for sharing. Going to try VC #3 and see if it helps. What focus mode do you use for the birds?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Earl, thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. For birds I am in Continuous Focus mode (Ai Servo) all the time and I also use back button focus so I can touch up the focus manually if needed.

[@faithisrising]

Thanks for this video Don! I just received this lens for a Christmas present and I love it. I’m not a fan at looking at the manuals so I appreciate you sharing what the VC Mode differences are used for. I have this on my 80D and keep it by me on the couch for capturing the birds at our feeders. I will take it out with a tripod when it gets warmer.

[@pranavjoshi4364]

Hey Don, excellent review 👍 Can you also make a video about how you process the images?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Pranav, thanks for watching the video. You know I actually do very little processing. I came from the era of slide photography, where it had to be right when the shutter was tripped. I still adhere to that today, and thus I shoot jpegs which I hardly process at all. When images have lots of noise I do run them through Topaz AI denoise and of course I'll clone out dust spots etc. but that's about all.

[@pranavjoshi4364]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thanks for the reply and excellent images 👌🏻, I'm planning to buy this Tamron lens hence was surfing on KZbin for the review videos...glad I watched your video...will definately consider buying this lens.

[@gcloetz]

What shutter speeds are your favorite for birds in flight with this lens?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Thanks for watching. Always with birds in flight I strive to get the fastest shutter speed that the ambient light provides. If that happens to be 1/8000 sec. - great! But that is rare because the light isn't always so bright. As a minimum I think for BIF the shutter speed should be 1/1000 sec. in order to stop the motion.

[@soularproject]

Did you adjust your Tamron with the Tap Con? Just got my Tamron! Thanks for the video.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, you are welcome. No, I don't have the Tap in Console. My Tamron was sharp and all good from when I got it.

[@treb1395]

I have this lens and it is a great lens indeed

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. I appreciate it.

[@eastwind3550]

Thank you very much

[@PeterGrace2013]

Out of curiosity, could you supply the settings for the shots you showed? I just bought the Tamron 150-600 G2 as well and paired up with my EOS R (and canon EF-RF converter) I'm really struggling with soft images. The close pics I get are reasonably good but the ones that are further out are incredibly soft.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey Peter, thanks for watching and for the comment. My normal (90% of the time) settings are: aperture priority with the lens opened up all the way (f/6.3@600mm) or perhaps f/7.1 or f/8, I choose my ISO (not normally on auto ISO) of around 200-1600, I leave the AF on continuous focus and the VC on if my shutter speed is less than about 1/1000sec. As you know the lens performs much better when the bird or subject is close. Don't forget that with far away subjects sometimes because you are shooting through a lot of atmosphere blurry images will result. I have found poor results anytime I tried to use a convertor of any type. Native lens to native camera will always be better. Not sure if Tamron plans to make an RF dedicated long lens for Canon but let's hope so.

[@peteryvr3329]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thank for info. Above what zoom range you start finding softness with this lens ?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

@@peteryvr3329 Hey Peter, I find the lens to be quite sharp at all focal lengths. Though it does help if the subject is closer rather than far away. When you shoot through so much atmosphere on a far away subject that alone can make for softer images.

[@berkaykaanozcan]

Is this lens compatible with canon Aps-c sensors?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

yes it is and then you have the equivalent of 225 - 900 mm of power.

[@berkaykaanozcan]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thank you so much for helping me

[@berkaykaanozcan]

hi, is tamron 150-600mm G2 lens compatible with canon 250d camera?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, Yes, you can pair this lens with the Canon 250d. Your AF might not be able to keep up with fast action but for static subjects you can do ok with this combo.

[@berkaykaanozcan]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Thank you so much. So this lens doesn't focus on a flying eagle or something like that? so is the AF speed too slow? or how slow

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

@@berkaykaanozcan The lens will focus on a slow bird such as a large heron or eagle but of course the more powerful your camera (such as a 5D Mark IV) the better the AF will be. Paired with the cheaper 250d and you'll have some trouble keeping up with fast action.

[@berkaykaanozcan]

@@DonMammoserPhoto thank you so much for helping me

[@Whereawillisisabruce]

Would this lens give me great results with a kind of mediocre Canon EOS 750D body?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, I'd say that for non-moving subjects you'd be fine but for anything with quick action that camera would have a lot of trouble focusing.

[@janardanan3617]

I'm afraid that you didn't mention that you can lock the zoom at any place by pushing the zoom ring forward...

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi, yes, this one tip I forgot but thank you for mentioning it. It is a useful feature.

[@samitha0777]

What is the most sharpest F in this lens ?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Samitha, Thanks for watching. I find that f/8 is really good anytime and of course when there is less light and I need a faster shutter speed, I'll open up all the way to f/6.3 (at 600mm) and the results here are acceptable as well.

[@floydald]

Why do you switch off vc?

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Floyd, thanks for watching. Yes, I do switch off the VC even hand held at higher shutter speeds. Reason is that I've found that the VC "kicking on" actually takes time and when the shutter speeds are fast enough that little bit of extra time for the VC means you miss some of the high action shots.

[@floydald]

@@DonMammoserPhoto ok I shoot at 1600+ most of the time so that will give me a bit frame rate. Thanks

[@camillewandelt2932]

Thank you.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

You are very welcome.

[@melirn7280]

Thank you for showing me the benefits of my Tamron. When you did the pictures of the woodpecker, how close were you and what zoom were you at? I'm just curious. The way your images look, it seems you are right next to them.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Melirn7280, yeah that lens served me well for many years. I've since moved to a Sony mirrorless system. That was a Pileated Woodpecker and yes, I was pretty close. Sometimes you get lucky with a specific bird that ignores you. That image was taken at Corkscrew Sanctuary in Florida. Hope your light is great. Enjoy.

[@moxxiloquita2048]

This lens is sharp AF. Those people moaning that the Canon L serie lenses are THE lenses to have to shoot wildlife, are so wrong. I have this lens also and got the Canon 100-400 L Mk II ,but for sharpness this Tamron isn't less sharp them the Canon. People who keep saying that, that L lenses are the lenses to go,are people that are fanboys and just can't accept, there are equally sharp quality lenses for more then half the price (or more) then the L lenses. This lens is sharp enough....If you can't get sharp photos with this lens, it's because of you...

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for taking the time to watch and comment. I agree, the Tamron 150-600mm lens is great and I've used it for years with nice results. For quick AF speeds though I must say that my Sony 200-600mm is faster.

[@rohanbh4290]

Am confused between the Tamron G2 and the Sigma 150-600 Sports for Canon EOS R6 (mainly birding). Any suggestions please ?

[@ivanymiriam2638]

❤

[@chefmikebenninger481]

just had one gifted to me, I'm a very lucky guy...

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Yeah, lucky for you! Enjoy and may all your light be magic.

[@tripleaderindie]

Great review Dan, Big Fan , warm regards from India. Come visit us I will show you tigers 👍💐

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Anshuman! Namaste. I have been to your wonderful country 2 times and would love to visit once again. I'd be really happy to see tigers with you. Thanks.

[@kritceongaming]

i like how you quickly skipped trying to put the lens hood the other way cause everyone here knows...it takes atleast about 20 mins of fidgeting to put the hood back on the other way XD

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Thanks for watching...you are right! That was always hard to do. I've now switched to a Sony system and the lens hood snaps right on without trouble.

[@thekeytoairpower]

I got almost exactly the same shot as that last blue heron with a 70-200 f4... of course it is of one of the two that live in a park and steal the fish from fishermen who are not paying attention so you can get within 4 feet of them...

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hey, thanks for watching. Sure is fun when the herons get fish huh? I love that.

[@eventid22]

I almost had a heart attack from that loud bird noise at the beginning. Too loud. Uhhh...

[@AJITEM]

😂 literally ,it was at 600mm

[@bcda1-f6z]

靠北，片頭的鳥叫聲那麼大，正片的聲音小的跟螞蟻一樣

[@Technologyadvisor1]

Hello youtuber my name is paul I run two youtube channels aimed at photography I review gear lenses and cameras and some's other things. I am a small youtuber with only about 3000 subscribers. I am trying to organise live streams with photographers in a show called lens talk. I would like to have guests come on and discuss debate camera equipment. I would like to collaborate with other youtubers. I want to try and get small youtubers better known as I am sick and tired of seeing big channels get prompted by youtube all the time. SO, I am trying to build a list of people who would like to get involved If you're interested in contributing, please let me know thanks.

[@zoltantolgyesi645]

viewers are sick and tired of lame "youtubers" hating on bigger channels. lol

[@karindenhaag2]

Hi Don. Beautiful pictures! I just bought the Canon 90D. Do you think the Tamron G2 will focus quick enough with my camera? Or should i get the Canon 100 400 ll? Thank you in advance.

[@DonMammoserPhoto]

Hi Karin, Yes, the Tamron 150-600mm G2 will be excellent with that body. Of course anytime the 2 lenses you mentioned get tested in a lab setting the native Canon lens will be faster, but in the real world of photography you'd probably never see a difference and the Tamron gives you 200mm of extra zoom power. Not sure what your subjects will be but if birds, that extra zoom is priceless.

[@karindenhaag2]

@@DonMammoserPhoto Okay, thank you for your answer. My subjects will be birds also. :-D