Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 Wildlife Photography field REVIEW | Bird Photography Tips

After a few months with a hectic schedule I'm back and today we are talking about the Nikon 200-500mm f5.6!
Over the last few months I've had a boat loads of questions about this lens and how it performs out in the field, so I took the opportunity to borrow one for Nikon Professional Services and test it out for the last couple of weeks in-between my other commitments!
The lens certainly performs well for the price, a good compromise between size, wight, performance and cost, giving a great all rounder for wildlife photographers. Paired with a D500 or D850 it's a flexible option priced very competitively for its performance.
If you require the best of the best the 200-500 still wont out perform the super tele lenses and pro grade optics, but in a way you'd hope it wouldn't!
If you are on a budget the 200-500 is a great lens and you can pick one up on the links below (Any purchase helps me keep making content but costs you nothing!)
Wex Photographic : tidd.ly/bf2dbe0b
MPB : tidd.ly/6c5c358a
Amazon : amzn.to/2KpAgtn
If you've got any other questions as always drop them below, I'll get back to you! New videos on route regarding the Image feedback/Reviews and camera traps so if you're not already be sure to subscribe for more wildlife photography content!
If you've found my video helpful and fancy dropping me a coffee or small donation to say thanks, you can do so here www.paypal.com/donate?hosted_...
You can check out more of my work on my website : www.tommasonphoto.com/
or over on Instagram + Twitter -- @TomMasonPhoto
My gear (Amazon Affiliate Links - 3% of purchase goes to me - you pay nothing extra)
NIkon D850 : amzn.to/2DzL5Jq
Nikon D500 : amzn.to/2udpstT
Nikon 300 2.8 VR II : amzn.to/2wuIrwO
Nikon 70-200mm 2.8 VR II : amzn.to/2wuoENJ
Nikon 24-70mm (Upgrade) : amzn.to/2wuFpIG
Nikon 20mm 1.8 G : amzn.to/2wukHsy
Nikon 105mm Macro : amzn.to/2v8hvmP
Nikon Sb-700 : amzn.to/2wut47j
Go Pro (upgrade) : amzn.to/2wgXMBM
Peli Card Case : amzn.to/2wu3AqS
Rocket Blower : amzn.to/2wgRaTX
Manfrotto Pixi Mini : amzn.to/2fhnlhX
Bag - Manfrotto Pro Light 230 : amzn.to/2wuLMMa
Ronin m : amzn.to/2AHGkfu
Music - Epidemic Sound.
#nikon200500 #wildlifephotography #nikongear

[@isaacmazique1530]

I have the Nikon 200-500 f5.6 coupled to the Nikon D500, while shooting hand held with single point back button focus at 1/1600 sec and f8 in manual mode and auto ISO. I nailed 3 in focus pictures of a common Grackel flying through the trees. I was sitting on a park bench and about 50 metres away. And I am 73 years old.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Nailed it. It's a great lens and the combo with the D500 is certainly a top class one!

[@azeezzakir7825]

Would be great if you could post the link to the pictures

[@Kevin-iv1ns]

Isaac Mazique 👍🏻

[@Jepysauce]

Isn't the 200-500 plenty sharp wide open? Nicer DoF and lower ISO that way, too

[@wissell4287]

@Butch Dye if weight is ever an issue you should look at Olympus cameras

[@JeffSelf]

Love my 200-500mm! It's the perfect setup when paired with the D500. I used it for shooting a baseball game yesterday for the first time. As long as the light is good, it works great.

[@richmaher6010]

Best 200-500 review yet, by far, thanks mate!

[@POPOkakaFURZ]

Nice review and images! Fully agree with you on the position of the focus ring... I find the best way is to keep your hand at the zoom ring and operate the focus ring with your pinky, big hands come in handy here lol. 5:10 I have used it in desert, crawling in between dunes in order to photograph shy gazelles and have to say that it handled all the sand and dust pretty well! I tried to minimize zooming when in desert so almost always kept it at 500mm... after a few days of using it out of the desert no sand in it anymore giving this scratchy feel when zooming. All in all really love this lens and would recommend it to anyone who does not have enough budget for a big prime! Especially the versatility you get because of the ability to zoom is really nice.

[@sahilkhullar006]

Recently purchased the 200-500mm lens and paired it with the D7500. I shoot birds mostly. This is an absolute beast of a lens. Super smooth and fast focusing.

[@sbphotography3751]

Thanks for the garden bird photography tips - very helpful.

[@kathyjurgens7153]

Just took the leap for this lens. Yours is the first video that helps me see YES!! this is the lens for me. Thank you for making this. Your bird feeder photographs are exquisite, by the way.

[@AlexanderKrebs]

After my 600/4 was stolen last october this lens was all I could afford and I’m really happy with it. It was my plan b worst case go to lens.

[@michaelpruitt6828]

Nice review, Tom and lovely images! Thank you for sharing the information!

[@theforgereviews4346]

If you want super cheap wildlife photography. I’d say a d7200 works well with this lense. I own this lense myself and will say for a DX format it really shines, it’s like having a telescope.

[@elboyd5809]

I have just bought this lens today! Your videos are fantastic, very informative and enjoyable to watch. Thank you!

[@LegoBuildersMOC]

Awesome video! I always look forward to watching a new video of yours. I really appreciate how you not only review the lens, but also discuss wildlife tips in general. BTW still saving up for the 300mm f/4 AF-S...hopefully I can snatch one up at ~$500 USD before I go on a road trip this summer.

[@jc32750]

Great lens mate. Use it all the time with my D500. I’ve gotten some great images of BIF in Florida and wildlife at Kugler Park S. Africa.

[@IqbalKhuraishi]

I used this lens for a full week paired to my D5300. Shot wildlife in Kanha & Bandhavgarh National Parks in India. The lens is good and does a fair job given the 5.6 aperture.

[@KatoandSara]

Went ahead and purchased this lens thanks in part to your wonderful review. Great work. Thank you for posting.

[@davidlewis7382]

I love my 200-500mm lens, I pair it my D500 and D850 it works great since I shot mainly wildlife. It has over 12, 000 shots without any problems. It sees all kind of dirt and wet, works flawlessly

[@lukehunt4111]

That was a quick turn around to my question Tom! Lol nice work!

[@CarlyWaarly]

Love this lens, crisp and sharp brilliant to work with, ...and not a photographer who is easily impressed. Paired with D800.

[@malcunningham6729]

Hi Tom another great video. I have the 200-500 and D500 and with it have taken photos of birds/wildlife I am very happy with. You mention that the auto focus can struggle in some situations which explains why my pictures are occasionally out of focus I was concerned it was me or something wrong with the lens . Keep the Videos coming. Mal, Southampton

[@No2theBS]

Superb shots and good review thank you.

[@TheCurls1]

Terrific review and shots mate. I couple this with my d750. It performs quite well in good light, the sharpness and bokeh are better than expected 🍻

[@corrbox2]

Thank you for your detailed review. Many terrific points and lots of great information. Your information is well taken and appreciated. Now, I have got to get out with the lens and shoot, shoot, shoot. 📸🤩👋😎👍

[@SuperFucdat]

Hi Tom, great video. I have the lens & just use common sense when it comes to getting it wet. If it’s just a light shower it’s ok, but if it’s pouring down cover it up. Good point you made about wiping it down every now & then when using it in the light rain. Mark.

[@annethompson2932]

You make some fantastic videos Tom. About to buy a second hand D500 and after selling my Sigma 150-600 - this is now my next purchase. Your review is fab and it looks like the combo I will have will be just perfect! (ps that Hawthorn twig idea - had never thought of doing that, so guess what I am doing this weekend!!) Thanks Anne.

[@Jrome719]

Guy, thumbs up the way you’re able to one-hand that set-up. I have the lens (D750), and it is a beast weight-wise...✌🏾

[@rolandsax4506]

superb review, thank you Tom!

[@delidanks]

Nice video - I love the lens - sure, I wish I could have a 300/400 2.8, but definitely can’t afford that. I use an 850 and works perfect. My little tip: Shoot the focusing ring with around 350mm - you can increase to the 500mm or 200mm with a shorter turn versus always shooting at 200mm/500mm.

[@jfinneynowable]

Great recommendation!

[@lonnieclemens8028]

I would love to see England. The houses and the countryside is beautiful.

[@TheAustinHewlettOfficial]

The only Problem eith it is there's no 2A

[@derekmidgley]

Agree with all you said. I've enjoyed mine for >2 years now. I've been so impressed with IQ even when forced to shoot into harsh light in backlit situations with fantastic contrast, minimal flare, minimal chromatic aberrations. In fact mine is much better than a more expensive lens in my collection that I wish i'd never bought!

[@Outlast1965]

Nikon is offering us an alternative easy on the pocket (will still save actually) wildlife lens. An opportunity for us to experience the avenue most likely for expensive long range primes. A D800 and D700 (both second hands) user here. Thank you Tom for sharing! And look at those images you got! For me, those images would be tantamount as receiving an achievement award. Regards.

[@nunofranklin]

Good tip about background palettes and including a little sky. Backgrounds are important - even if hey are out of focus.

[@johnhjic2]

What a nice review, great images to.

[@jakesdewet3567]

Great video as always. Agree the 200-500 is fantastic value for money and offer great optical performance. For most people it is really an amazing lens for nature and sport. The Camera industry has really developed equipment at relatively affordable prices that has opened for many aspiring photographers. For my use unfortunately the lens did not work out. In very dusty and harsh conditions in Etosha the lens only survived 1 trip. Practically it is not possible to keep the lens covered when you work. The image quality and even focus is impressive. and the constant f5.6 is a big plus.

[@andrewyeates7717]

Just made the switch to Nikon from Canon and got the d500, because of this lens, for airshows and wildlife. Was toying with one of 150-600 models, but I think you have convinced me now with this video that this is the one. Great stuff. Very comprehensive review.

[@ChrisandSohee]

Fantastic Video, Keep up the good work!

[@papotaino1516]

So many of us with the D500 & the 200-500 hookup it just works great together 📸

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Totally agree!

[@lonnieclemens8028]

I would like to see more of the waterfowl pictures. Thank you for sharing this video.

[@girliedog]

I like the way your flipping that long lens around from the camera body. Must not be too heavy.

[@jfphotography69]

The D500 and 200-500mm is my setup, love it. Excellent video by the way.

[@EdsEverydayAdventures]

Love this lens with the D500. The prints I get are amazing. I do a lot of stock work and the video and photos I get are great and have more than paid for it. Just sold a bunch of 16x20 prints to a client of some deer... Always hated that clicking of the Nikons, but ....live and learn, I wrap a towel around the mount area where it overlaps on the camera, doesn't interfere with any controls and noise is muffled to where the deer and turkey don't notice at all now.

[@eiricnj7664]

Which lens would you choose between the Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 or the Nikon 300mm f.4D? I am shooting on a Nikon D5500 and photograph different wildlife in a huge variety of distances, but sharpness and weather sealing/durability is the most important thing to me since I want to sell prints and I am photographing in snow, mist and rain as much as I am photographing in sunny daylight. Great to see you back again and hoping for more "out in the field" videos.

[@ZaberAnsaryOfficial]

EiricNJ If Fixed focal length and 300mm is enough for you, Its a Fucking Beast of a Lens. The 300 f4 PF that is. Dunno about the old one. A stop better, quites faster AF, Sharp AF but Pricy.. Also has faster AF even with 1.4x tc at f5.6

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey there, its a hard one because I love the 300 f4 for the DOF and slightly faster AF, however for such a range of subjects I feel the 200-500 might suit better. The weather sealing on both lenses is decent, however the newer design of the 200-500 seems to be a little better, just be careful of sand getting in when zooming. With either I'd grab a cover to be fully sure - a simply full camera and lens cover will be perfect to see of the harshest weather. Sharpness when used correctly is great with the 200-500 even wide open. Hope that helps, Cheers, Tom

[@derydtp]

I have both the 200-500 and the 300 f/4 AF-S(non IS). I find the zoom to be both sharper and better in rendering colours at 300mm wide open. Its more contrasty. Are those your findings as well? Thanks

[@garysingerman2533]

Thank you,very good review.

[@desertoo23]

Very good video. Loved the pictures.... I am a Nikon shooter but thinking about moving to Sony but after seeing this video I think Nikon is still a very good company with marvelous bodies. Maybe the D850 is a good option indeed.

[@harrisonhallphotography]

What song is this that you use? Tried looking on Epidemic Sound but just can find it

[@MarkMarshallPhotography]

Hey Tom have you shot with the older 200-400 F4 VR and compared it to the 200-500. I'm wondering if the extra 100mm of reach is worth considering when the Obviously far superior 200-400 can be picked up 2nd hand for around $2200 to $2400(and likely to hold close to that value) I know it's a stop faster but with the D500 being so good in low light that's not my concern as much as loss off reach especially as I'm likely to use it predominantly for wildlife...hope that all makes sense

[@ozmid40scouple]

Great review, I have owned this lens for about 10 months and initially used it with my D7200, where it outperformed my previous Sigma 150-600contemporary, I have since upgraded to the D500 and this combo is a "killer" combo for the price, in my estimation there is nothing else to upgrade too, before going the "prime" lens route which is a huge price jump.......I meet so many people that are using the D500/200-500 combo and even a few that have moved from Canon over to Nikon just because of this available combo. For extended periods of photographing birds or wildlife I use a monopod.....the VR is a dream

[@ZaberAnsaryOfficial]

I would switch to Nikon for D500 and 200-500 for sure.

[@dirktassaert6579]

Nikon D3s + Nikon 200-500mm. It rocks!

[@LeonKolenda]

I'n using mine on a D750, I'm enjoying the heck out of this lens! I'm going to get a D850 when ever they become a stock item at B&H here in the States. I want that almost double pixel res, for cropping, along with all the other great features of the D850. I got my 200-500 used for $1050.00 US, and it's in like NITB and is Tack sharp. Love, my D750 also, the High ISO's I use are pretty Noise free.

[@elwelkin]

question: so in your opinion is the lens or the camera auto focus?

[@johnboya50]

Thank you Tom great Video again

[@unoengborg]

The lens extends quite a lot while zooming, is that a problem when using a gimbal, as balance change?

[@neilford7338]

Great video Tom.

[@raymondcook8364]

Question: I have a Nikon F4s body and am buying the 299-500mm Nikon AF (VR) lens next week. If I turn OFF the (VR) on the lens, will the Auto Focus still work fine?

[@tinjos8306]

Have you heard about the rumored 600mm f5.6 PF lens that is to be released this year? Could be exciting if not too expensive.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Certainly if its not too expensive it could be a very cool lens for bird photographers and especially those who travel, I'll be interested if the performance is better than my 300 2.8 + 2.0 TC for sure, and if the weights low it could be awesome! Thanks for watching, Tom

[@varghamehregan1183]

It was a great review, thanks to you. But can you help me to choose between: 200-500mm vs 200-400mm f/4 vr II. thank you.

[@InCountry6970]

Solid review and you're the only one to pick up on the reverse order of the zoom and focus rings. When I move from my 16-35MM and 24-70MM Nikon lenses to this new 200-500MM, I have to constantly remind myself that these rings are reversed. It can slow me down and make me miss certain wildlife shots.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Thank you! Yeah the reverse to the rings can throw you off, especially if you’re used to other glass. Lots of the newer models are now the same, swapping them over for easier reach of the ring, but in time I’m sure I’ll get used to it!

[@pete-r51]

Great vid,good info.

[@klackon1]

Good video with some great tips and images. I agree with your asessment wholeheartedly: it's a brilliant lens. I was debating whether or not to purchase a Nikkor 200 - 500mm or a Tamron 150 - 600mm G2. As I walked passed London Camera Exchange I noticed they were selling the 200 - 500 at £999.99, went in and bought one. I actually prefer it to my Nikkor 300mm f4 PF ED (with or without the TC14EIII). I've owned mine for about a year and immensely pleased with it. I use mine on the end of a D500 and feel they were made for each other.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I'd certainly agree the D500 and 200-500 were made for each other, such a great combination and price for the setup you get!

[@mustafaaslan508]

Hello! I have two options. Canon 90D with Sigma 150-600 contemporary lens or NikonD500 with Nikkor 200-500 lens. I am shooting wildlife photos and videos. What you suggest to me which should I choise ?

[@brandonlee6888]

Hi Tom, what are your thoughts on the d7100 ? I currently use it with a nikkor 18-140mm & 70-300mm. I was thinking of upgrading either the body or lens or both. Do you think i should stick with this setup? If not, what lens & body do you recommend?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey Brandon, I would pretty much always invest in lenses over new cameras. The 7100 is certainly cabal of great images and has a good AF system inside. Personally the 200-500 would be a great fit for the camera giving you excellent scope to then upgrade to either an FX camera or DX in the future. The 200-500 would certainly be a big improvement over the 70-300, hope that helps, Tom.

[@rkahir9897]

sir... please tell me in full details.... which tripod you have used in this video?? i have d500 +200-500 nikon gears

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Im working with the new Gitzo traveller tripod. Its an ultra lightweight option supports up for 12kg. Cheers, Tom

[@oqhr]

How would this lens performes in Nikon d3400 camera?

[@peterrudolf6780]

Interesting review with some great information. So in a previous video you praised the 300 f4, how does the 200-500 compare for sharpness and focus speed and which would you go for if you could only choose one?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Both the 300/4 and 200/500 are great however both sit in different budget categories. The 300 can be found for £500 whilst the 200/500 is at least double this. Both perform great in terms of sharpness - I would give the edge to the prime - however when a TC is added to get the 420mm focal length to compare with the 200/500 they are very comparable. The 200/500 has the benefits of flexibility, as well as VR but the focus speed from my personal testing I would say it similar, the 200/500 hunts a little less in backlit situation or when it starts to get darker. Personally if I could only have one I think I would still choose the prime (mainly because I love the 300mm focal length) and the f4 aperture makes very nice Bokeh -but the 200/500 is a stunning all round performer, especially for those going after smaller birds. I’m going to be very intrigued with the new 500 PF being announced so we shall se how that changes things! Cheers, Tom

[@AlexVisualMoments96]

have u tried it on z7 as thats what ive got and in process of choosing a wildlife lens thinking of going with this but im not sure hope u can help either this lens or the sima 100-400 lens ill be looking at 70-200 and 300mm 2.8 out of my price budget as now have to get new bag what bag do u use to carry this lens about or other wldlife lenses

[@nileshwanasinghe]

What's the best camera settings you recommend for wildlife photography on this lense

[@roshankumar9172]

Hi Tom, Thanks a lot for the review. The Question I have is does 200-500 do justice to D850 ? I ask this Question since in one of your other videos, you mentioned that to get the best out of high performance bodies like D850, one must use prime lenses. Can you please answer this Q soon as Im planning to buy D850 in next 3 days.

[@OnFleekCardistry]

I have the 200-500mm lens and I took it out in the rain, mostly because of this review and the next day the focus was slowed down tremendously due to water getting inside. I couldn't focus on anything close up. I then continuously focused on something really far and back to something really close several times until the heat of the motor seemed to evaporate the water. This took quite a bit of time though. Problem solved, but I honestly felt lucky. Don't use this lens in the rain. Get a rain cover. Please.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey will thats good feedback to note, I tested the one I had for 4+ hours in the rain and didn't have any issues but I did wipe water off every so often, the lens seemed to cope well but its certainly interesting to hear your feedback. I doing think it would be an issue in a light shower but for heavy rain I'd agree a cover would be recommended, especially if you are zooming in and out regularly. Thanks for the feedback much appreciated! Cheers, Tom

[@4k4u99]

Hi , What do you think about the sharpness between Tamron 150-600 mm vs Nikon 200-500mm ? , Which one is better ? Anyone .. Please ....?

[@norniron1621]

I’m a D300 user and have been looking at the Tamron 150-600 G2. Has anyone got any experience using this lens against the 200-500 please. Many thanks 😊

[@64BBernard]

The Nikon 200-500mm weighs 2.3kg. Is it safe to carry the lens and camera by the camera strap, or would you recommend attaching a strap such as Kirk Photography's sling strap (ss-1) to the tripod collar?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Personally I's usually have it in my hands by the lens, often holding the foot when walking to avoid stress, just when filming myself I needed to use the strap! I think having a strap mount for the lens would certainly reduce the stress over a long period and would probably say if you work a lot with a strap and walking then its probably worth going for it long term. Cheers, Tom

[@spoolindsm127]

The new 70-200/2.8E has the zoom ring in front also. Perhaps this design is cheaper to make, hence why it's used on the 200-500?

[@ralffroberg1322]

Thanks for letting us know what you think of the lens, just ordered one. Looking forward to get it and start using it with the D500.

[@annethompson2932]

Me too - about to have this combo :-)

[@FrederickDunn]

This is a wonderful review Tom and thanks for that. I'm watching you at 11:46 talking about shooting over your pack, does that not impede the focus ring from movement? Seems to be a very nice lens with a lot to offer and your small bird portraits were very nice! Thumbs UP of course! Many thanks.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Hey Frederick, shooting over the pack can reduce the ability however often to change zoom, simply lift slightly and re compose. The bag offers stability and is handy for that and the slight effort to lift and zoom is easily overcome. Also you'll find unless you're pressing the camera down its not to much an issue. Glad you enjoyed the video and the shots! Thanks for watching and hope too see you commenting on future uploads, Cheers, Tom

[@FrederickDunn]

@@TomMasonPhoto Thanks Tom! I do like the lens by the way, tack sharp and a pleasure to use. All the best!

[@100mikeshark]

Hey Tom good review. I bought tamron 150-600mm some years ago after seeing your excellent review on that. It does most of the things I need but f8 is a pain. Is upgrading to nic 200-500 going to be a worthwhile investment

[@mikeyduke10]

Hi I'm a beginner to photography but wanting to make some vlogs, for myself if nothing else... I'm just wondering if you could tell me what you use to shoot the videos and sound? Do you bring a dslr just for that purpose? What size lenses do you use for the vlog? And how do you connect your sound? Thanks

[@adolfousiermarketstars6765]

love the channel 📸

[@MMKARAOK]

Great review..👍 Is it compatible with kenko DGX 1.4 tele converter ?

[@razrv3lc]

I’ve got a D750 and a D7100 and I’ve finally broken down and ordered this lens. I think it’s going to pair with both cameras really nicely but especially the D7100 to get that DX crop reach.

[@xray111xxx]

Love your videos. Love your Nikon reviews. Yes trouser Fjallraven is the business. I have 2 pair. The G1000 is crazy durable.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Glad you like them!

[@Criturbay]

hello friends, can someone explain to me why a prime lens is sharper than a zoom lens? or would I be wrong? thanks

[@ooltimu]

Did you also try the Tamron 150-600 G2? I tested them side by side and it seems snappier at AF than the 200-500

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I haven't used the Tamron so couldn't say!

[@philipwatson2443]

good video Tom. I especially like the Coot images

[@TomMasonPhoto]

The coot images are my favourites too!

[@rustystuff]

What lens covers do you use for this lens please?

[@markusstiller9882]

Hi Tom, I do have this lens, too and I really like it. I use the D850 and D7500, both are brilliant. Now my question, is the focus ring at your lease also very loose. Mine is quite loose and I sent to Nikon to adjust but it came back pretty much the same. Is this normal? I know other Nikon lenses such as 24-70 2.8 and 70-200 2.8 and on these lenses the focus ring feels more solid and stabil. What do you think?

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Markus its due to the pro grade lens/consumer lens. The 24/70 70/200 in my mind are some of the best built and designed lenses around. The focus rings are both dampened to add additional friction to aid in perfect focusing, something lacking on the 200-500. In reality it just because of the price.. The 180-400 I am sure would have an equal feel to the 70-200 or the 300mm 2.8 I always use, again down to them being pro lenses with the added investment in features like that. I do however feel its the right compromise for this lens and for most people, who'll rarely touch the MF ring! Cheers, Tom

[@FstopPicturesByAlunDavies]

Would it make a good surveillance lens for its price point

[@cyberchick87]

I use this on my D850 and its a brilliant setup for wildlife photography. I did test out a 400mm 2.8 the other day and that was excellent but the weight and size made it a faff to navigate.

[@ManishKumar-gb8rq]

I'm looking to buy a nikon d850 to pair with this lens... Can you please tell me if i am making a good decision or not?

[@johnrichards4947]

that and about a $9500 price difference lol

[@joangumbel4832]

I bought this lens because I read it will work with my old d3200 - not I've read mixed opinions. Will it work? Thanks

[@sussyrodriguez8486]

How much that lens, also can i use in my nikon d-7220,,,,tell my about it.

[@LeonKolenda]

Tom, I noticed that you mentioned that the lens missed some shots when AF tracking was used, I could be wrong, but, I think the Camera body handles the AF Modes, and not the Lens?

[@faermtb]

Great video man. I've been looking a lot at this lens online. One of my first bits of research was seeing if this lens is weather sealed and, as far as I can see online this lens isn't weather sealed. Just be wary if you are using it in the rain and it gets water damaged, Nikon won't do anything about it!

[@Pierceb2]

You can make or get a lens sleeve to keep it dry and protect it better.

[@Mandomara]

Hi Tom, I have a Nikon D750 with a Nikon af-s 300 f4 with 1.4x TC but for reasons of versatility I would like to sell the 300 f4 to take the Nikon 200-500. What do you think? Thanks Stefano

[@RLRIX]

Hi, I’m currently shooting a D850 and going on safari next year so thought about a second camera to stop lens changes in dusty environments. The question I have is - should I get a FX (D750) for second camera or DX (D500). Baring in mind the D850 has cropped shooting built in, my main consideration is the extended reach of the crop factor. Wanting to make the most of my current telephoto lenses. 300pf, 70-200fl.

[@narrabarker]

Great video Tom. I have the 200-500 and agree with everything you said about it. I would be interested to know what vr settings you used and what your thoughts on the vr are.

[@TomMasonPhoto]

VR is a very handy, not only for slower shutter speed handholding but also keeping things stable in the viewfinder for composing. I had VR on the whole time in Normal mode, but still aimed to have a 1/1000 sec shutter speed for sharpness on the D500 D850. With the file size and crop being so great, you need to make sure the technique is nailed down, however I did get good results even at 1/320. Cheers, Tom

[@narrabarker]

Tom Mason thanks for you thoughts. It's the first vr lens I've owned and I often end up using the sport mode as the view through the viewfinder stays more steady between frames in a burst of shots when tracking a subject.

[@rahumadaz]

Tom, which flash would you recommend for using this lens at 500mm?? or the 300mm with the 2.0III TC ?? I have two yongnuo flashes and a Magmod magbeam flash extender, but haven't yet got to set it up properly for long range flash in wildlife

[@TomMasonPhoto]

Personally I rarely ever use flash with a telephoto, for my flash work I'm usually at 14-35mm. If I was too I'd work with an SB-5000/ SB-910 along with a better beamer and flash bracket to raise the flash for reduced red eye and amore natural look. The wimberley bracket is a good one to work with - working with the flash on TTL with -2.0 exposure comp dialled in as a starting point. Hope that helps Cheers, Tom

[@rahumadaz]

Thanks Tom!

[@sumangalarajapakse]

My Dear Tom Mason I am a Nikon Wildlife Photographer and a Wildlife Researcher from Sri Lanka. My Nature and Wildlife Photography works in the WILDS - the combination is Nikon D 7100 + NIKKOR 200-500mm. Super Telephoto Zoom Lens. When I see your above works and the Review you have done all are praiseworthy and appreciated well. I love this Nikon Wildlife Photography Lens a Lot. To protect my lovely lens I am using a Nikon NC 95mm Neutral Color Filter. I bought it along with the Lens. Made in Japan. When I see your Honor going through the fields with the lovely and valuable and precise Nikon Gear they all greatly motivated Me. Your way of presentation and the happiness of shooting with the only budget and affordable Wildlife Range Lense from the esteemed Nikon Corporation eye soothing and a Happiness to the Mind. By the way I need to get a clear understanding of the Full/ Infinity switch on the Lens. How about your hands on experience in the WILDS with this control ? Second question - For the lens long safety Once our Nikon School Master said that it is good to keep the the Super Telephoto Zoom Lens at 400mm. What about your opinion ? Kindly add my subscription to your esteemed site. Awaiting your Reply in Apppreciation. Will stay connected. Thank you and Warm Regards.

[@historylikersapast3048]

Will this support D5600?? If it how about the results??

[@trngamingyt5884]

Which camera has been better for wildlife photography in low budget tell me bro

[@martyslonim1082]

Tom, what are your recommended settings for large birds in flight with the Nikon 200-500 and Nikon D-500 camera in good early morning and evening light? Reviewers are all over the map on this. Some say shoot wide open with vibration reduction OFF and focus limiter on and use Group Focus setting, ISO 1,000 to 2,000 or more. Others say shoot f/7.1 or f/8 if light allows, use Full focus mode, vibration reduction ON and 21 point focus mode, ISO 640-800. I am using AF-C mode with focus tracking and lock-on. Do you set AF-C priority selection to Focus or Release? I suppose the answer might be whatever works best for me but I'd like to know what works best for you. Thanks!

[@TomMasonPhoto]

I'd be working wide open in early light, looking to use a group mode of 21 points or 3d Tracking, ISO 800 as for flight stuff in the air often that will easily provide a 1/1000 - 1/2000 shutter speed. If the light gets stronger, I'd up my F stop for more depth of field to ensure full focus and then slowly drop the ISO. Although in honesty I tend to prefer a little more movement in my flight shots so would also try dropping to 1/60 ish and panning!

[@migonads]

Have you ever used the Sigma 300mm f/2.8?

[@AZTEC_ARTS2023]

What focal range do you get on the DX mode of the D810 ? TY

[@wissell4287]

Same as a crop sensor (aps-c, 1.5x crop) 300-750mm

[@twiztedzero1685]

Fjällräven best trouser pants! I've got the Barents Pro, and the Vida Pro, comfy as all get out. Been trying to get the kneepads but local store Fjällräven Canada, here in Toronto is flat out >.< gotta wait hah.

[@MrDgm80503]

You got that right. The winter Ovik's are also superb for the colder temps.

[@peteryates308]

I want to downsize from the traffic cone like 500mm f/4 and just can't make up my mind between this and the 300mm f/4 pf.