The Best Gear I Have Ever Bought!

[@dhanniamarasuriya1118]

You know that a reccomendation is genuine when someone says "no name brand jacket, and they don't make it anymore". Thank you for your honest reviews always. Much love from Sri Lanka xx

[@Duade]

Thanks, I wish it was a brand that people could buy as I love it. Cheers, Duade

[@rangersmith4652]

It was made by nobody, and nobody is still making it.

[@benicio1967]

@@Duade Truly amazing photos. Are these lenses just as good for recording landscapes and wildlife?

[@bradleyrex2968]

We need Canon and other lens and accessory makers to agree on Tripod collars. They should all have Arca Swiss rails. And they should all have a rubberized, rounded, hand friendly top. And they should all be removable. The rails do not have any down side that I am aware of. And making a hand grip on top so the lens (or lens and camera) can be carried like a suitcase is a big plus. Removable because some time you don't want them.

[@pjdilip]

Dude is the type of person you would love to have as a buddy 😂😂

[@alexmacdonald1732]

I still used my Dad's Canon 7D and 100-400 both MK i's. I inherited it after my dad passed away in 2012 when I was only 13 so I love using his old kit because it keeps me close to him. He was far more into bird photography than I was but I used to out and join him with my 350D and 70-300 that he started with. This past 3 years I have yes the 7D a lot done loads of aviation and motorspot photography with some stunning results as well as getting out in the field to take some wildlife and landscape photos. I went to Canada with me this summer on a 9 day canoe trip in the Yukon. unfortunately, due to weight limits I could not justify taking the 100-400 so took a cheap supper zoom 18-270 Tamron it did an ok job, I wish I could have fitted the 100-400 in my bag. Also got a 24mm 1.4 sigma to take with me to Canada by far the sharpest lens I have. Love your video and they inspire me to get out and take more photos and I love that you show what the older gear can still do. however, I do feel it is time to upgrade soon as I have definetly found the limits of the 7D AF.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing your story Alex and sorry to hear about your Dad. Wonderful you have that kit to remind you of him. I am sure you can keep it even when you upgrade and pull it out from time to time. I still like doing that with mine. Have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@hypnoraythompson5824]

I hope you get a lot of pleasure from your dads stuff as I am sure you will. It would of made him happy. I lost my son a year ago, and all of my gear would have been left to him to enjoy. Now its not to be. Tak e as many memories with it as you can cos life can be short

[@JuanRodriguez0]

The last item is so important, trips are the best investment for me. I have a cheap bridge camera, and the only thing holding me back from an upgrade is that for me the money is best spent on a birding trip. Amazing times with friends and incredible memories. In fact I have to hop on a trip in like 2 hours from now.

[@Duade]

Have fun on your trip, Cheers, Duade

[@adventure9606]

I bought the same bag in 2008 when the 5D MKII came out and used it until 2021 then bought the updated version. It is perfect for me and it is my gear closet as well. It has a R5 with adaptor and EF16-35 attached to the R5, 100-500, 5Dmk 4 body, RF28-70, RF85 f1.2, 6 batteries, RF 1.4 extender plus many accessories.

[@Duade]

Great to hear, I was not aware there is an updated version, when mine dies I will look into it. Cheers, Duade

[@michaell.steigerwald2542]

Another wonderful video! I started photographing in 1978 with a Pentax K-1000. I’ve still got it, and I imagine it still works. My first DSLR was a Canon 20D. Boy, have things changed since then.

[@rangersmith4652]

It's great that you don't have any other expensive hobbies. I have amateur radio, PC building, music, bicycling, a bit of woodworking, and most recently a rekindling of photography. I have to keep them in some sort of financial balance. No giant primes, nor zooms for that matter, fit into that picture. It's a good thing my photographic interest leans more toward imaging things that are not trying to avoid me.

[@3DEditor]

I used the Panasonic G9 micro 4/3 with the 100-400 Lumix Leica lens since 2019, mostly for filming with occasional photos of wildlife and landscapes. I recently started taking wildlife photography more seriously and decided it was time for an upgrade. After thorough research, the Panasonic S5iix Full Frame with the Sigma 60-600mm lens was the one that checks almost ever box for a well rounded setup. That was a huge upgrade in overall quality and expense. So far, I'm pretty happy with it, even though I haven't fully tapped into all of its vast features yet.

[@bryonmahler3806]

The oldest camera that a I still have is a Nikon N80 (film camera) with some kit lenses from the early 2000's. I paused my photography hobby around 2006, because my photos were awful and processing the film was getting expensive. During the pandemic, I decided to restart the hobby and bought a used Nikon D7200. Most of my photos were still terrible, but I could cheaply delete the really bad ones. Thanks to the used market, I was able to recently buy a Nikon 200-400mm f4 VR, the lens I have wanted since my N80 days. I have to agree with your thoughts in the video. The moment you take a picture with good glass changes everything about your outlook on photography.

[@blairblankinship4521]

I have been an avid photographer since 1973 when I was a Yearbook photographer for my high school. As work and marriage interrupted my photography I kind of fell away from it, but got back into photography with the advent of digital, starting out with a 3MP point-and-shoot (and Photoshop v3). My first serious DSLR was the Canon 20D with the tiny 1" LCD on the back. First serious lens was the 70 - 200 f4. Then the Canon 40D, and the Canon 100 - 400 L v1. I also purchased other important lenses like the 17 - 40 L, The 100mm macro, the fantastic plastic 50mm. Eventually I upgraded to the 5D MkII, and upgraded to the Canon 100 - 400 L v2. Other new lenses include the Canon 35mm, Sigma 24mm Art, and Canon 24 - 105L, and Canon teleconverter 1.4 mk ii. Then came the Canon 5D MkIV and the Sigma 150 - 600C, the Canon 24 - 70 L v2 and finally the Canon R5 with the 800mm f11. It has been quite a journey. As I tell my wife, it's my only vice... Keep up the good work!

[@Duade]

We sound like we have a lot in common :-) If I reflect on the number of hours I spend with my gear and the enjoyment it gives me it really does pay for itself. I could spend a lot more on boats, cars, motorcycles etc. Cheers, Duade

[@GobiTheDragon]

I just went from a canon 400d to a 7D a few days ago and my keeper rate and photos are just a thousand times better, with the 400d cropping was near always impossible as the image quality would just drop off a cliff but now with the 7D I can crop much further and in much more creative ways, it has made, paired with my Canon 400mm F5.6 made bird photography so much more enjoyable.

[@Duade]

Great to hear, you have the kit I loved for years, Cheers, Duade

[@joeyret.617]

As far as stills, my om1 and the MZuiko 150-400mm F4.5 with built in TC is my main go to. The Om1 has many built in computational features that I always find myself using. The lens gives me alota of reach, max at 1000mm (35mil equal.) f5.6. And it has a built in arca swiss that I do use from time to time but not too often because of its light weight. The mount has a half-moon smooth top, arca swiss plate on bottom thus it makes for a great camera and lens carry handle. I used to carry this kit with a shoulder strap, but I have switched to a wrist trap and carry it by the lens mount, it's easier. I hike many times over 3 miles or more when dry "for the shot" thru muddy swamp so this kit must be versatile in reach and light. As far as boots since I was a fisherman back when I still use my white shrimp boots, cheap and still does the job. A must have for me is also a full bug suit, sometimes in the summer wet season unfortunately, you need it. Always carry one camera and lens, on my hikes, the small stuff goes in my pockets. My Caden travel, carry on camera bag with all of my lens, filters, back up camera body stays in my truck. If it's a wildlife hike, then the fore-mentioned is the kit that is coming. The lens can focus on a minimum of 1.3 meters for photo-like macro stuff. I have pushed this lens to take wonderful landscape wildlife pics which are focus stacked in the camera, but I can also focus stack at home and compared both images and I cannot tell them apart. BTW I use my tripod as a hiking pole when focus stacking but not often because clean up sucks after the fact. I mostly carry my mini tripod that I set on a stump or rock and that goes in my pocket and it can balance my om1 with my 40-150 pro f2.8 or my 12-40mm f2.8 that I carry in my pocket and leave my 150-400 in the bag. I use cargo pants for hiking....many deep pockets! I always use one hiking pole for balance, which from experience, there are sometimes big roots and rocks submerged in the muck, that I have tripped upon in the past. I'm not as young, water or muddy proof as my camera gear. As a result, I have mounted some pics of my adventures on my wall, largest is a 61 cm by 92 cm that brings me back and makes me happy to look at. Cheers!

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing such a detailed comment, sounds like you are well and truly sorted. I would love to try that lens at some stage as I love the OM-1. Yes, I have a fly net for my hat as flys get really bad here sometimes. I also have a jacket with lots of pockets, you can never have enough :-) Cheers, Duade

[@esterix101]

That lens is absolute superior in my eyes. It's just incredible how amazing IQ it is when I tried it. I wish I have money for that.

[@rrhickok5291]

Hey Duade thanks for all you do for the bird and wildlife community around the world.!!! You are probably "out of focus" to the fact that you are so dynamically inspirational to those wishing to be exposed to the wonderful resolution you saturate your viewers with on a macro level. In one word, "Awesome". ...sorry for the abuse of photographic language. I'm sure you'll soon be adding the r52 to this list or wait till canon gets the minor disappointments worked out. Kindly assure your wonderful wife she is such a precious gem for allowing you to pursue your passion for the photographic art you demonstrate so well and is much loved by your following. One thing I might suggest is to add the general location info to your photos as a large portion of us can only see thru your lenses such splendid whereabouts. Cheers.... - A Tennessee Bear.

[@Duade]

Thanks for taking the time to leave such a wonderful comment, I really do appreciate the feedback. Cheers, Duade

[@polmestra]

Like you , my vacation choices always involves birds and photos 😊 The thing that changed my photography was your channel , so far, that has been the most impactful. Thank you ! ❤

[@Duade]

Thank you, you are too kind and glad to hear I am not the only one who finds the birds and then the holiday location. Cheers, Duade

[@janlamens84]

I've had the same Think Tank bag before, but the 'hip support' on it was very poor in my opinion. So after a few years I've changed to a LowePro ProTactic bag. It's a bit more bulky but it has the same inside specification and most important, padded hip support My oldest gear is probably my Canon 100mm Macro L lens. I'm still very much into bug photography and it's an amazing lens for that.

[@RSafay]

Duade, another great video. I've had my Think Tank Airport Commuter bag since 2014. It has been to Africa twice, Alaska twice, Canada, Chile, Argentina, Brazil and recently to Antarctica, as well as numerous flights within the USA. It has never failed me, and it is the perfect size. I love the built in lockable security cable to prevent someone walking off with it. Keep making these great videos.

[@robguyatt9602]

I have to say, going from the Nikon D850 to the Z9 is my best ever move. I have many treasured shots from the D850 with 200-500 but the switch to Z9 and Z 100-400 + 2xTC shifted the keeper rate up a notch. Actually, an order of magnitude is a better description. Switching to the Z 800 pf I feel has not gained me much. It is sharper than the above-mentioned 800mm combo for sure but not dramatically re in the field shots. But the Z9 and Z 800 are rarely parted and sit beside me ready for action on any road trip.

[@airtonsilva8006]

I am just a hobbyist bird photographer. I started in 2021 with a D5600 + Nikkor 55-30mm DX. It was light enough to get many photos and learn the correct techniques. But the lens was a bit soft in the 250-300mm range, so it always bothered me. Last year I decided to upgrade and got a D780 + 200-500mm. I think it was a near experience you had when you upgraded to the Z9 and Z lenses. The keeper rate is now an order of magnitude higher.

[@GrainOnTheGo]

This is the upgrade I plan to eventually make as well. Love the 810 i have but looking forward to the 810

[@robguyatt9602]

@@airtonsilva8006 Well done. I'm just a hobbyist too.

[@Duade]

Wonderful to hear Rob, yes the jump from the 5d4 to R5 I suspect was the same as you experienced, just on another level. Great to hear you are enjoying your combo. I hope your date was impressed by the size of your gear. ;-) Cheers, Duade

[@JeffreyHauser]

I used the Canon 7d for many years& it served me well. I shot so many images with it over the years & had Canon replace the shutter. I used it for several more years before eventually selling it & moving into the mirrorless camera ecosystem. Best wishes, Duade.😊

[@Mr09260]

I love Think Tank Gear >> I have just got a Think Tank Lens Bag for my Nikon 180-600 >> very impressed as I normally get Lowepro Back pack s etc

[@Rooster0529]

I think the one piece of kit I use most and really changed the way I shoot is my gimbal head. I find it’s always with me and so versatile.

[@Duade]

Great to hear, which brand did you end up going with? Cheers, Duade

[@Rooster0529]

@@Duade Movo, I’ve been very happy with it.

[@wpohley]

I definitely agree that travels with friends is the best part of wildlife photography. We have visited some amazing locations and met some wonderful people.

[@Duade]

Great to hear, I totally agree and wish I could do it more often. Cheers, Duade

[@silentrabbit247]

A few homemade / modified bits of kit I find helpful - mobile umbrella hide (best of hide & bag hide). Similar bag to yours (except Roller type ) but with added frame /larger wheels from A.T. pram buggy, makes for easy transport of heavy gear while using a light backpack at the same time.. A rifle mount made from a wooden crossbow butt & lastly a ground pod from cheap fry pan. Enjoy your informative presentations. All best.

[@cp4512]

Canon EF 70-200 f/2.8 IS L is a killer of a lens and now a fantastic value second hand buy.

[@BillFerris]

I also have the canvas bag hide you mentioned. Here in the States, it's marketed by LensCoat as a canvas photography hide. I've used it to be near wildlife without being a disturbance. For birding - especially in winter - I'll often drape the hide across my lap and down my legs to conceal my lower body from raptors in-flight. It seems to help. Either they don't notice me or they do but don't see me as a threat. During the winter months, it also serves a purpose as another layer trapping warm air between me and the frigid cold :)

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Bill, yes a great bit of kit I have used many times. If you have a couple of tripods you can also create a wall so to speak, but needs no wind. Cheers, Duade

[@medavidcook]

I still use a Canon 1000d which is over 13 years old and still works a charm

[@generaltso9402]

Muck boots are great, very comfortable! Seeing a few more competitors these days.

[@VR_Wizard]

I am still on my first camera Sony A7iii with the 50mm 1.8 cheap prime. Together it cost me around 1200$ used but almost new. I did not know if I even like fotographing so much to even justefy spending the money but it was so cheap that I could have sold everything for more money at that time so I jumped in. I then started fotographing the hobbies i do mainly dancing in low light fast movement and people had no pictures from it becauae normaly phones don't work well in these situation. Now I photograph those events multiple times a week and get free entrance to the parties and dance workshops. I am corrently moving into the field of making also movies of dancers so my gear list just recently grew to a ronin gimbal and a 24mm 1.8 prime lense. I am currently shopping for a video light as well constently improving my skills.

[@kenjanson3428]

I shoot with an R5 and RF 100-500 (the jury hasn't returned a verdict for me yet on the 200-800). I am in Australia and have struggled with heat haze myself many a time. Like you I get home and throw the card in the reader and the keeper rate is very disappointing. Yet other times in the same area, using the same settings the keepers are up in the 90% bracket. Before I realised it ( I "get" heat haze across a sandy beach photographing shore birds in summer but in the bush or beside a little dam it wasn't as apparent) I was supper frustrated but it's a fact of life and at least I got out of the house for a wander the the bush so it can't be all that bad.

[@mvp_kryptonite]

I sold my 400/5.6L recently and it was mint, hard to let it go but finally the 100-400Lii has replaced it. For me, the 7d was just automatic. Love the mkii and now the R7 and I’m tempted by an R3. Great video and tanks for putting it together

[@callline7183]

Going from a Nikon Kit zoom (55-200mm) to a Tamron 150-600mm was a game changer and really made quality bird and wildlife photography possible. I've moved on to a Nikon 200-500mm which was a much smaller improvement. I bought both used, one from Adorama, and the other from KEH. That's a great way to go if you are on a budget. Also bought my 45MP Nikon Z7 full frame from KEH which was the next largest improvement over a Nikon D7500 APS-C camera. If you want to do wildlife invest in one of the budget 1XX-500 or 1XX-600mm zoom lenses used and you will not regret it!

[@SIMpleSIM6]

Another enjoyable video Duade. It’s nice to look back at your gear and remember how far you’ve come with it. My oldest camera is a half frame Lancaster Special Instantograph. The red leather bellows in it is new but the camera and lens are from around 1891. I don’t use it for birding though, just landscapes. :) My current wildlife setup is an R7 with the EF 100-400 L ii and 1.4 extender iii. I’m also guilty of taking holidays where we can see birds, but luckily my wife has the same hobby so we spend a lot of time together enjoying the UK wildlife.

[@Duade]

Great to hear and wow that is an old camera. Cheers, Duade

[@VABrowneMDPhD]

Without question the Canon 500 f/4 L USM IS II and 100-400 L USM IS II f/4.5-5.6 coupled with the 7D Mark II and 1 DX series cameras were absolute game changers for my photography. Since then, the Canon R5 has been a major leap forward. I’m really looking forward to the Canon R5 Mark II. This last year, I sold my Canon R3 and purchased the Nikon Z9, which has proven to be a really excellent camera. The Fringer adapter allows me to use my Canon EF L-series lenses on the Nikon Z9.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, yes the 1DX and version II primes really was a jump in quality. Glad to hear you are enjoying the Z9. Cheers, Duade

[@bigboi36]

Great video Duade! I truly believe that Nature/ Wildlife Photography/Birdwatching is the new therapy. At 55 years old I'm appreciating my journey in photography even more. After 20 years of running and gunning doing event/social/sports/ concert photography I'm enjoying the slow down. Actually my photography journey has taken me full circle. I started nature/landscape then onto documenting college/uni life to event/concert/sports/social. Now its Street/Wildlife. I no longer shoot for clients etc. I'm now looking to get new full frame pro body with the Zoom/tele. I decided to wait on the 2nd iteration of the full frame pro body Z9 II and the Pro Apsc. I do however have a Z50 as my go to carry. This little camera has surprised me, even with the kit lenses it came with. I hove however purchased the Z24-70|2.8S and it works great.. Auto focus is a little challenging at times but fine when I switch to single box | DSLR style mode. Very sharp.

[@Duade]

Great to hear, yes, Nikon have been killing it lately and every generation is improving on the last, much like DSLR's I guess. Good luck with it, Cheers, Duade

[@jessiecampbell4971]

I would love to see Australia some day and do some birding. I’m in Alberta Canada, so it’s very different here! I just recently purchased a canon 100-400mkii, I’m using it with a 80D and a 6Dmkii. I’m having a lot of fun with this set up so far. The dream camera right now is an R5 with a big prime lens, but I’ll have to wait awhile before I can afford that!!

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing Jessie, sounds like you have the bug as bad as I do. Have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@andrewyoder88]

My absolute number 1 boot for decades has been those green lacrosse boots. I believe they are insulated although very lightly. I wear them in the summer no problem and in winter I'll wear them down to around 10° F. Summer heat is the reason I've always had those instead of the Mucks

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, I might have to check them out as a summer boot, Cheers, Duade

[@marcmurison]

I can second the recommendation for Muck Boots. Super comfy, tough as nails, and waterproof. Awesome boots for trudging around in, um, muck.

[@sprayhawk808]

This was a fun vid. Thinking back on all of the gear that I've churned through, a few components have left a mark on my photography - game changers. First was my 1Dii body that I got in 2005 and used until 2012ish. Ironically, it's demise opened my eyes on the capabilities of newer bodies. After cycling through a 7D, 7Dii and a 1Div, I upgraded to the 5Div, which I loved - but only for a year when I moved on to the R5, which I feel could be with me for many years. On the lenses, the 300F4L was the foundation for my 'big' lens for many years. I used it for surfing and birding and airshows and it rarely failed me. At the pricepoint, it was a steal.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, lots of good cameras that I remember using, yes the 300 f4 was another option I considered. Great to hear they served you well. Cheers, Duade

[@tommydaynjer5334]

I’ve changed my gear a lot over the 14 years I’ve been in photography, but one lens I just can’t let go of is my first ever lens which is the Canon EF 100mm macro. It is so sharp and so perfect that I still continue to use it all the time and while everything else went the way of the RF mount that single lens is my last holdout of EF gear. Its got sentimental value to me on top of its superb quality so if the day ever comes where I get a different macro lens I’ll never sell my old lens and box it up for a shelf somewhere lol

[@AliasJimWirth]

Thanks for sharing all of this, Duade. There are some really good comments here, too.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, just getting through the comments now. Cheers, Duade

[@kevins8575]

I've always wanted a jacket just like yours! The best gear I've ever had is my R5 paired with the Rf100-500.

[@Duade]

Great to hear mate, yes, I wish it was a branded jacket. Cheers, Duade

[@xxholicxxclover7413]

That’s the lens I want

[@GinoFoto]

Best invested money to photographic gear by me was definitely on EF-S 10-18mm IS STM, cheap, but amazing lens with which I took two of my all tiem favorite landscapes.

[@shahg5524]

Duade, so excited to hear (hopefully meet) you at the Bird Photography Conference coming up in SA. And get first hand tips from you as someone who has just started this addictive hobby of bird photography👏👏👏

[@Duade]

Yes, it should be a lot of fun, be sure to come up and say hi, Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

G'day, just thought I should let you know that I have withdrawn from the Conference in March due to family illness, I apologise for the late notice and hope we do get the chance to meet sometime in the future. Have a great time, Cheers, Duade

[@shahg5524]

@@Duade thanks for notifying. Totally understand, family comes first so all the best and look forward to a meet n greet in the future. cheers

[@173jaSon371]

I've been shooting since summer of 2022 and have been using a Canon 80D since about April of 2023. Until very recently, I was stuck just using a 400mm but still found that after months of doing so, I had improved DRAMATICALLY in every sense. I recently started using an old 600mm Tamron that my mom had going un-used, and it's really opening up my possibilities with composing images and getting more captivating action shots of raptors and such. I guess my point here is that even while using older gear or slightly shorter focal lengths, you can still learn an endless amount. I could buy all the gear I currently use on the used market for like 2k, which many with a larger budget would scoff at, but I find it gets the job done once you know alllll the in depth settings. I could not justify buying new gear both because of my budget AND because I felt as though I wouldn't get as much out of it until I learned my way a bit. I'd rather kill a $500 camera body or 2 while learning than a 2-3k one.

[@danielknapp3267]

I wear those Muck brand boots for field work almost daily in the muddy and soggy PNW USA! Comfortable, warm-ish in the winter, and long lasting (3-4 years of daily use). Highly recommend!

[@stans6582]

Thanks Duade, I really enjoy your channel..........I still have my canon f-1, 1971 I paided 500.00 with a 50mm 1.4 lens, I can say that I shot Elvis with a canon 1973........keep up the good work ...ss

[@lukasvandewiel860]

I went full frame about half a year back, and I am never looking back. I often work on sites with little light, so sensitivity and noise is always an issue. The difference between ASPC and FF is just stunning.

[@robertharvey2580]

For me, it was deciding to take the leap into mirrorless cameras, and buying the R7. I was really hesitant because of rolling shutter, but it’s just not a significant issue if you know how to work around it. The upgrade in AF was a much greater benefit, than not always being able to use the elec shutter.

[@Duade]

Great to hear Robert, it is a great camera once you overcome the few weaknesses. Cheers, Duade

[@Hummingbirder1]

14:11 - Squeeeal! - (I know, this is more or less expected from me now... I'm happy to oblige!😁)

[@Duade]

Thanks Pia, always a favourite. Cheers, Duade

[@David_Quinn1995]

the oldest gear I have is the Canon EF 100-300mm L f5.6 and I still use it on my backup camera the Canon EOS Rebel T3 that sits in my car for those random moments I normally would have wished I had a camera.

[@Duade]

Great idea mate, you just never know when those opportunities will pop up. Cheers, Duade

[@evilemesis]

Heya, Duade. Muck Boots makes a "cool" version of their boots that you may be interested in trying. I used to work on a shrimp boat on the US Gulf Coast and I chose those for fear the others would be too hot. I was always moderately comfortable even in wool socks. I never tried their other boots as I only had that job for two years but they served me well through that time. Thanks for all you do!

[@denisesavage2382]

Great sense of what's helped make a difference. For me getting a bag I can wear as a bum bag when I'm out walking in the bush was a big one. Easily store and then grab the camera out when something grabs my attention. No faffing around with getting a back pack off etc. Also having an additional battery to hand charged and ready to go. Lastly - wet weather gear and warm gear for a Tassie winter.

[@Jarbie]

An enjoyable and informative video, thank you. Last year I bought an R7 and found it such a leap forward from my 700D. I have recently progressed to M mode full time and am enjoying it so much. My most used lenses are my 400/f5.6 and 500/f4. I'm looking too sell some less used gear and buy the RF100-500 so was very pleased to hear your recommendations on all 3. ATB, John.

[@thephotoyak]

Trips for sure. I always shake my head on Reddit/forums when someone who has 15k+ USD in modern gear is asking about their next purchase and their portfolio is dull and they have never tried going anywhere new. I love the Kirk Arca Swiss tripod feet with the QD socket. I love being able to carry my camera on a sling and instantly being able to detach and throw it on a tripod with the QD swivel.

[@andrewyoung8880]

Great video once again Duade. The best gear that I've purchased and still swear by are my Canon R5 with the Canon EF500mm f4 II and 1.4x Teleconverter. It was initially for airshows, but now solely for birds. I also love my Canon EF100-400mm f4.5-5.6 II that I take out when on whale watching cruises for whales and seabirds. It'll be interesting to see how the Canon RF200-800mm f6.3-9 (my first RF lens) goes for both when it finally arrives.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, we have the same setup so I can relate to how much you enjoy that lens. The RF200-800 will likely replace your 100-400 I suspect for your airshows, wales etc. That extra reach should be good for Prions, Petrels etc. Have fun, Cheers, Duade

[@barrymiller526]

Oldest kit? I still my first ever camera given to me by my sister for Christmas in 1963. It's not much more "toy" bur still works and still takes reasonable shots on 120 film. I also still have my late fathers 35mm Paxette that he bought around 1958. The base plate looks like a very useful piece of equipment.

[@cikenot90]

My first lens that boosted my bird photography and made me go wow is the nikon 300mm f4d, so cheap yet so sharp, quite fast af, and nice bokeh.

[@citizensmith42]

For the ground pod, I made one out of a Frisbee and some bolts and washers from a DIY store. You can do it really cheap.

[@nilanjan160]

Absolutely wonderful video...when u say that the trips themselves are more joy than all the gear that money can buy, that's a 100% genuine comment. All the best!

[@timotejm]

RF 100-400mm f5.6-8 for me. I just started my journey in wildlife photography. Always thought that for wildlife photography you need 2000$ + lenses so newer really looked into it. So after I found the 100-400 i was a bit skepticap but now I love it!

[@TomazNMelo-tf9sc]

The last subject is the one I want to spend my money now, trips. I'm happy with my R7 and my two zoom lenses, the Sigma 150-600 and the Canon 70-300 L. Depends on how difficult is the trail I preffer to use the 70-300 because the weight. I love zoom lenses and I'm loving take more habitat shots now, incluind more negative space in my photos.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, yes, they are very important, unfortunately I have some personal circumstances restricting my travel at the moment and I really miss it. Cheers, Duade

[@ww3688]

Thanks for another great video Duade. It's really good seeing your favorite gear and progression to what you've become today. My favorite piece of gear is my adjustable PD Slide shoulder strap paired with the F38 QR shoulder strap mount that has made carrying my R5+100-500+1.4x so comfortable. The F38 QR puts my strap below my camera so it never gets in my hands' way when i reach for it. QR lets me move quickly between my strap, gimbal and backpack/belt clip.

[@Duade]

Thanks Winston, great to hear, if you have time and no pressure I would love to see a photo of your setup, email to [e-mail] if able. Cheers, Duade

[@angelsepulveda9211]

Thanks Duade, especially for the replacement collar for the rf 100-500. The plate coming loose has been driving me crazy, buying that now.

[@Duade]

My pleasure, it is not quite as smooth as the original when going from Landscape to Portrait but having the built in arca swiss makes up for it. Cheers, Duade

[@Media-oq9ux]

In the next few days my 7DII and Tamron 150-600 will be replaced with a Lumix G9II and PL 100-400. My 7D saw little action when I got the 7DII. So many photos ! I am hoping to make my hobby great again with the new gear.

[@Duade]

Congrats, it will be a big learning curve but you will love the weight and eye tracking. Cheers, Duade

[@Media-oq9ux]

Been using a GH5 and G9 and hopefully the G92 lives up to the hype. @@Duade

[@henrievankleef]

Hi Duade, I didn't hear you mention the rf 200-800, even though its laying in front of you ?

[@Duade]

Thanks, yes, I cut that part as I will be talking about it in the review I do later on. Cheers, Duade

[@Kellysher]

My accessories I use all the time. Osprey waist pack, holds my teleconverter, batteries, cards and snacks. I also love the walkstool. So lightweight and nice to use with tripod shooting waiting for Herons and Egrets to catch fish! Who makes the soft lens covers you are using. Those look nice.

[@beckyb4948]

The oldest piece of gear that I still have is my Pentax K1000, which I bought in 1978. I seem to hang onto my photo equipment - old lenses and cameras that I'll never use again, but I really don't want to part with. I think that camera was also the one that had the biggest impact on me, since it was the first SLR that I owned. I had been using point and shoot cameras up to then (starting with my mom's Brownie box camera) and the possibilities that that SLR unleashed were dramatic, to say the least. All the cameras since then have been incremental improvements, sometime large increments, to be sure, but they didn't change the way I understood and approached the art of photography as much as that first SLR did. But today all I am looking for is a new backpack that's light, waterproof, holds a water bottle as well as my new mirrorless camera and both a long zoom (that 200-800 looks fantastic!) and a macro lens, and has some room for a raincoat, lunch, etc. I will check out Think Tank to see what they offer.

[@wojciechstanczak5069]

The oldest bit of gear I have, is Canon EOS 1000 (this analog one), and from digital side of life Canon A40 :) But I don't use it anymore, I switched to Sony APS-C after going back to photography.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing, always fun to remember old gear and the memories it gives, Cheers, Duade

[@michaelpoole8410]

My best value purchase was a Minolta 300mm f2.8 APO second hand. It was probably 20+ yers old at the time, but in terms of contrast, colour and bokeh, it gave me much better results than the Minolta 100-300. It came with a x1.4, x2.0 and a massive UV filter - 114mm - which must have cost a bomb, but I chose not to use it. It performed very well wide open but also stopped down, still with good bokeh. Results with the x1.4 combined with the Sony Alpha 900 were great (up to ISO 800). After 3 years I swapped to Canon and the 300mm f2.8 II which was much lighter but critically much faster focussing, but with the right subject, I might still favour the Minolta. After 3 years of use I sold the lot for what I bought it for.

[@Duade]

Great to hear Michael, always great when you get a good purchase like that. And yes, these lenses do seem to hold their value which is great. Cheers, Duade

[@funknick]

My camera gear is nothing to write home about. I'm using an old Canon 7D mark II and a Sigma 150-600 f5-6.3. Clothing is another matter though. I live in a cold climate (Western Canada) and can safely say that a North Face fleece, Mark's Work Wear rubber lined gloves (grippy and warm), an ArcTeryx wind shell, La Sportiva Nucleo High GTX II boots, and a North East Products Hot Seat are game changers for being able to stay out in the cold. Being able to stay comfortable while waiting patiently in the snow for a shot is a necessity.

[@mikem922]

Duade I found this so very interesting and filled in a few gaps for me. I had learnt bits and pieces from other videos on your kit but never knew the story behind the big 500mm prime lens for example. The RF 100-500 zoom alongside the bird eye detection of the Canon R-series bodies really changed things for me too. I love to see you experimenting with this lens and producing such wonderful silhouettes and landscapes. Really impatient to upgrade from the R6 to the R5II and excited to see what canon will release. Excited also for the 200-800mm possibilities alongside the new promised flexible teleconverter. Thanks again mate.

[@Duade]

Thanks Mike, yes, I too am very excited for the R5II, I suspect it will just be a more well refined version with a stacked sensor. The flexible tele is what I am really excited about. If that works with the 100-500 without losing the 100-300 range it would be fantastic. Also use on primes would be excellent. Cheers, Duade

[@AnandaGarden]

Thanks for the restful gear talk and beautiful photos - perfect for a Friday afternoon.

[@TwinIonEngines]

I'd really love to know how you travel with your BIG lenses and primes. I have a Sigma 500mm F4 I adapted to use with my Fujifilm X-T5 and the thing is just a beast, it practically takes up the whole of my backpack, leaves very little room for much else haha. Packing and traveling tips would be greatly appreciated! Gotta go find those birds.

[@streetunka]

I got reunited with an old 1d Mark IV and bought a 400 5.6 and 500 f4 ver 1 last year... saving up for an R3 to pair them with :D

[@docflyer4773]

Your videos are so good because they are so down to earth. As an beginner in the field they are what I need.

[@captaincook6283]

I’ve been following your channel for sometime now and I still like very much for your positive energy that is not fake, but everyone can see how much you like this genre and as the audience we feel these vibes anywhere in the world. I also dreamt of the prime 500 mm version two but I go with the 100 to 500 zoom since my main topic is people photography. But I am enjoying to get nice shots of animals since it’s just nature and so beautiful to interact with these beautiful creatures even in a big city. I’m really looking forward for every new video that you’re doing and I wish you would give us some insight of your retouching process on a regular basis but even if not I’m still watching your beautiful videos keep continuing cheers ❤

[@Duade]

Thank you for the kind words and feedback, I appreciate the support, great to hear you are enjoying the 100-500, it is such a versatile lens that does just about everything. Cheers, Duade

[@ryanreed6959]

Seems like yesterday I got my Canon 80D. It’s a bit of an old dog now but it still serves me so well. Of course I would love to get into the mirrorless world, but with noise reduction software and everything Lightroom does these days, I continue not to upgrade. Being broke helps delay the upgrade too! lol maybe there’s an R5 in my future some day. Love you Duade, cheers

[@davepastern]

for me it's: EF 500f4 mark 1 (so sharp!!!) Canon R3 (amazing DR and high ISO performance, and I LOVE the EVF) Kinesis L511 bag to suit the 500f4 lens Bioluminous custom lens cap to suit 500f4 lens Zamberlan hiking boots - absolutely worth every cent. They aren't cheap, but they are supremely comfortable. I had zero break in issues with a new pair and they were 100% comfortable from the first second my feet slipped into them. Amazing grip and ankle support. Quality hiking boots. coming from older Canon DSLRs, the MLC animal eye AF is just amazing. I thought I'd hate the EVF after a horror experience with a Sony EVF to suit the RX100II back in 2012, but I love the EVF in the R3. ES is great too, no more shutter noise scaring birds. And my God, the DR and high ISO performance - it absolutely craps on any of my DSLRs and by a country mile. It's daylight 2nd. I can confidently shoot up to ISO 8000 and not really worry. Even ISO6400 shots, when exposed correctly, are pretty much usable without any NR software being used. I still want to get a camo hide, and a groundpod. And I need to get camo clothing too.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, great list of gear and great to hear you are enjoying it all. Yes, we are very lucky today that is for sure. Cheers, Duade

[@davepastern]

@@Duade I"m enjoying it other than the petrol costs. It's killing me.

[@wellingtoncrescent2480]

In 2019, I purchased my first mirrorless camera, the Canon M6 II, along with the Sigma 150-600C. This gear taught me the joys of bird and wildlife photography. And even though I have since upgraded to the R7 and RF 100-500, the earlier gear got me started.

[@klaustomasini]

My oldest gear are a Polaroid SX-70 and the original OM-1 film camera and a lot of vintage lenses. Digitally is my oldest gear an Olympus E-1. So, you see, I am very sticky to MFT ☺ The reason is that I was working for Olympus life science department as international marketing manager for a long time and understood their philosophy and I love it. Kachō Fūgetsu (花鳥風月) : ‘Ka‘ (花) means “flower,” ‘chō‘ (鳥) means “bird,” ‘fū‘ (風) means “wind,” and ‘getsu‘ (月) means “moon.”

[@luzr6613]

Love that E-1 too. Bought a 300 f/2.8 a week ago. I've had it on an E-5 but, when the light gets a bit better, we'll try it on the E-1. These are my 'family jewels' - never to be sold.🙂 Have a good one.

[@Duade]

Thanks for sharing mate, you must have some incredible memories on that Polaroid, I never had one but always admired them. Cheers, Duade

[@jobinkin8070]

My oldest gear that I still have is my Canon D60 (6.3 megapixel) DSLR full frame, purchased in 2002 when I went digital and I still have my original EF L series lenses 100-400 ( which I haven’t had the heart to sell yet) and 16-36 f2.8 with I still use on my R6 for Astro.

[@josephmurad1134]

Hi Duade, I still have my Canon 20D, which I upgraded to the Canon 6D MK1 in 2018. In November 2021, I sold my 6D and lenses to upgrade to the R6 (I do miss the 45MP of the R5 sometimes).

[@Duade]

G'day, thanks for sharing, lots of good cameras there. The R5 will come down a lot in price when the R5II is released. Cheers, Duade

[@ScottRitchie-bw9ls]

Good on ya Duade. You were one of the guys are able to get me back into bird photography. Back in the 80s I had an old Canon FTB with a sigma 300. And my own dark room. and then I took a career hiatus you could say. And a few years ago I retired and got back into it. After a bit of research and watching you and Jan, I settled on the R5 and the 100 to 500 RF lens. And of course the 1.4 Tele converter. It's been great. The one piece of gear that I've added that you don't see much is a dot site. The PGD tracker. I can instantly put flying birds in the frame, and while the auto focus misses a fair amount (I'm working on that), I've been able to get some pretty damn good BIF's particularly of small birds that I would never be able to get otherwise. Keep up the great work. It would be lovely to bird with you someday.

[@Twobarpsi]

My 70-200 2.8 L III and my 5D Mkii, are my two favorite pieces of gear.

[@robbrackimp]

Hi Duade Excellent video, solved my issue of the tripod foot on my Canon RF 100-500 tending to slip after a while when in use on an arca swift plate.Following your video I bought the iShoot Collar with the integral arca swift foot from Amazon uk at £49.99. The lens is now now firmly fixed when using my Gimbal. The collar fits the lens perfectly, and is well made. Though it is slightly heavier than the Canon Collar, 181g compared to 157g, with the necessary arca swift plate attached to the foot of the Canon collar that combination weighs 219g, making it heavier that the Ishoot collar. Thanks for the tip, didnt know these existed.

[@Duade]

Great to hear mate, glad it helped, Cheers, Duade

[@ursthomann3463]

Really cool video, Duade, thanks. Funny, your question about ones oldest gear just gave me pause. In fact, I believe it is my Canon speedlite EX580 from 2006. I am told that this was not a very good investment because Canon‘s original accessories are notoriously overpriced. Well, it served me well and I still occasionally use it. Regarding the R5 coming from the 5Div, I cannot agree more with you. Cheers, Urs

[@MS-yk3yu]

a wonderful video as usual. I too have one hobby and thats photography and watching your and Jan's videos has helped me a lot in deciding gears. thanks once again. keep them coming

[@Duade]

Great to hear you are finding the videos helpful! Cheers, Duade

[@Washingtonium]

My camera is the Sony rx10 iv. I've been looking into getting something better for dedicated birding, but I'm never giving it up for travel.

[@ZadieBear]

I am not a birder, tho I love your style of review. For me, I use the Sony A7R3 with a Canon 200L prime. I love the results of the lens every time I put it on the camera. I had the Canon 300L IS F4, however it dropped out of my bag on a trip and was never quite the same.

[@FendaSantana]

I would like you to review the Nikon ZF for bird photography. Please.

[@davidde8777]

Hi Duade, hope your still on the mend. I love this video. I've made a ground pod cos UK amazon don't sell it. I've taken your advice on the muck boots boots, saves my walking shoes. And grief from the wife. 🤣. Take care of yourself. Dave

[@jacquesberthier1470]

Hello Duade Thank for your video. I've been taking photos every day for 20 years, and with M4/3 equipment for 14 years, because I take photos while walking and M4/3 is light and compact. I quickly selected 2 pieces of equipment suitable for this practice. A hunter's vest and a folding stool. This equipment is possible in M4/3, but would not be possible in APS-C or FF. I use a hunting vest with game pockets on the front and back (Decathlon $40). In front on the left, I can fully fit a G9 + 100-400 (27cm) ready for photography with lens hood and without lens cap . In front on the right I can also put a Sony RX10 IV, or an OM-1 + 12-35. I usually have this device slung over my shoulder while I walk. Behind I can put a Manfrotto Beefreee tripod or a mini stool. There are also plenty of other pockets for battery, phone, etc. The fully equipped vest weighs 8klg. The stool is the second essential element to my practice; it is folding, 30cm high, weighs 300g (Amazon $30). I sit with my elbows on my knees like a tripod. I stop walking, put the stool on the ground, take out the camera and I take a photo in 15 seconds, in a very stable seated position. For macro photography I move the stool very quickly to adapt my position. Much faster than moving a tripod. Hunting Vest URL tinyurl.com/4y6zbhs3 Folding Stool URL tinyurl.com/4zcasmu6

[@FrankH-sz1ln]

Love the RF 100-500 with my R6 mark ii. The image quality is unbelievable. I just find you have to get the background a little further away than you do with the big primes to get similar Bokeh. It just takes a little more planing. I started with the Canon 2000D. I’ll never forget that camera as it got me hooked on photography, I felt guilty upgrading to the 90d and so on. Funny how your favourite Camera or lens becomes almost like a friend. Even my wife says I love my camera more than her. But hey, she’s a very close second! Nice video, but every video you make I really like. I’m sure we all appreciate your effort.

[@marieta.s]

Ha ha I loved it when you said I only have one expensive hobby! In my experience all hobbies are expensive when you get serious about them and it only takes one to get you bankrupt he he.

[@andrewkeir2282]

I am thinking of getting a 2nd hand R5 when the Mark 2 comes out . I LOVE my RF100-500L with my R7. Auto focus is a bit of an issue. I hope to meet you at the Bird Photography Conference in March.

[@Duade]

G'day mate, yes, I am guessing the price should drop quite a bit when that happens. Yes, be sure to come up and say hi. Cheers, Duade

[@Duade]

G'day Andrew, just wanted to let you know that I have withdrawn from the Conference in March due to family illness, I apologise for the late notice and hope we do get the chance to meet sometime in the future. Have a great time, Cheers, Duade

[@andrewkeir2282]

I am very sorry to hear that Duade. I hope your family member recovers well. I guess your talk is the best one to be missing because I watch all your videos anyway. Backhanded compliment... your welcome. All the very best.

[@Duade]

Thanks mate, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade@@andrewkeir2282

[@mblimbli1460]

Bought an EF 400mm f/5.6L USM because of you and couldn't have been happier!

[@Duade]

That is great to hear, it is one of the sharpest lenses made, it does lack IS and the MFD is poor but boy does it deliver nice shots. Cheers, Duade

[@bjrn-einarnilsen687]

Great video, of a great journey mate. The oldest gear i have is my first camera that i bought in 1979. A Pentax ME Super and a 300mm f4. Many years since i stoped use that hehe, but i never could get me to sell it. A great memory of my start with wildlife photographing. Wishing you a great week/weekend with a lot of nice photos. Cheers, Bjoern

[@Duade]

Amazing mate, that camera sure is old, just like us :-) Cheers, Duade

[@bjrn-einarnilsen687]

🤣😂🤣🧙‍♂@@Duade Even had a "winder " on it so it did shoot two photos a second hehehe

[@oldchev2850]

I started with Pentax cameras, a zoom105, a k1000, a superA, then went digital with a Pentax ist'd and recently purchased a Canon R8. The R8 came with a 24-50 and ive not long ago bought a RF24-105f4L lens. I was looking at getting something like the 100-400 you reviewed as, just being a hobbiest, paying more than $1000 is hard to do. I do like to have the nice things though so we'll see. I do like the fact that the 100-400 is fairly compact. A bigger lens might make people think I'm a professional, which I'm definitely not. Although I do enjoy photography and I appreciate great photos. I love your videos and reviews. Great to hear that fellow Aussie voice. Cheers, Peter

[@carlreid4161]

I’ve got a Rohan windjammer from 1998 which is windproof and goes over a fleece, the reason I keep it is it’s got a full body width check pocket which is great when swapping lenses.😊

[@mstrathmore]

Always love your videos Duade. Two of the often understated things about photography are the nostalgia and the pure joy of doing it: very few hobbies / sports leave you with a detailed record of all your exploits! I really regret selling my original Canon EOS 50E film camera (ah, man, Fuji Velvia!!!) and the camera that first got me into digital: the Canon EOS 10D.; would love to have those on a shelf somewhere. My LowePro backpack is about 20 years old and you’d have to pry my fingers off of it. Agree with you on the R5 and RF100-500: they’re too good (and if I’m honest, as a hobbyist, probably more than I should have). I do look at that 200-800 with loving eyes though! All the best, Mark.

[@allanwilliams2361]

It's gotta be the R5 together with the 100-500 for bird photography. And maybe with the 1.4.

[@Duade]

Thanks Allan, a wonderful combo for sure. Cheers, Duade