Nikon Z 180 - 600 Zoom Lens - Set up and Deep Dive

[@mike1590]

Perfect video. No annoying techno music, a sensible intro, no lightroom preset ads every 30 seconds, and most importantly, the exact information we all want to know without rambling. Thanks Terry, new subscriber.

[@tv510]

Wow, thanks Mike!

[@rcgrant9310]

Terry, The timing of this video could not be more perfect. My Nikon Z9 is arriving & 180-600mm is one the lens coming as well. I greatly appreciate the time & effort you put forth assisting those of us moving from DSLR to Mirrorless. THANK YOU!...

[@tv510]

Perfect! Yes, I think a lens like this might just move people over to mirrorless. Enjoy!

[@tomgodzik8951]

I have the Nikon Z50 and the Nikon 180-600mm lens. This combination works great for my use. The camera and lens was a great investment for me. Great video. ❤❤❤

[@tv510]

Thanks for watching! Glad that combo is working for you.

[@johnforbes4795]

I'm impressed with your step by step "deep dive" explanations. It's an excellent combination of both verbal and visual cues to enhance the viewer's understanding. Although it's my first visit to one of your videos, I'm impressed enough that I've become one of your subscribers. Well done! By the way, I've had an order in for the Nikon Z 180-600mm since day 2 of B&H's preorder announcement.

[@tv510]

Awesome, thanks for following me. You're going to love that lens.

[@cy9nvs]

Mine should finally arrive today! Super excited. I bought a Z8 and pre-ordered this lens the day it was announced, finally switching from Fuji.

[@tv510]

I think you are going to love it. Congrats!

[@HarleyDoc86]

Thanks Terry, I just received my 180-600mm, replacing the Tamron 150-600mm , that I have used for about 5 years. I really appreciate the thoroughness of your reviews. Thank you again!

[@tv510]

Great to hear! Let me know what you think of the lens when you get a chance to work with it.

[@jamesnelson1443]

How much of an improvement over the Tamron is the new Z 180-600??? I have the Tamron & always felt it needed a lot of light to get good pictures

[@HarleyDoc86]

Night and day! Also I used it with the 1.4 Nikon Tele on my Z9 and it works great. Set your aperture and shutter speed with auto iso and the camera does fantastic in any light. The 180-600 seems to be a longer lens or the Tamron was not quite 600mm. The Tamron was pretty good but the Tamron tele was only partly compatible with the Z system.

[@shaunmasterson498]

Thank you for this informative video. I have just bought the lense and am getting to know it better, thanks to your piece.

[@tv510]

You're going to love it! Congrats!

[@wk845]

This is an EXCELLENT video. Exactly what I’ve been looking for. Lots of well-presented information without hyperbole. I subscribe to very, very few channels. I have added this to my list.

[@tv510]

Awesome, thank you!

[@alasdairslade1390]

Great presentation Terry. Glad this popped up for me. No waffle, well spoken and succint. Nice.

[@tv510]

Thank you kindly!

[@Brian-xo3mk]

Hi there Terry thanks mate, just another valued review for me. I am so glad I watched your review as I received my Z180-600 about 2 weeks ago whilst recovering in hospital. Back home now, however it will be a while before I can head off and explore the wildlife and birds around my home of which there is plenty. I now feel totally reassured that I made the correct pre-order choice. Hopefully in the not to distant future my wife and I can embark on another adventure to Canada, BC and the Rockies from Australia. Thanks once again.

[@tv510]

You are welcome, enjoy your travels.

[@randyschwager2515]

Excellent info! I got my 180-600 yesterday and I’m very excited! Your video was very helpful! Unfortunately, the wind chill temperature in Des Moines today is -45 degrees so I won’t be going out to shoot today! Bummer!

[@tv510]

WOW! I guess I shouldn't complain about my 47 degrees in California. Good luck and have fun!

[@m.maclean8911]

I bought the 180-600mm rather than the 600mm and the money I saved paid for half of the Z 800mm. Then I upgraded the 180-600 to the amazing 100-400mm S lens. With these 2 lenses that can both be put into a carry-on bag, covers the entire range of 100mm-1,600mm. (with TCs). The 100-400 has very close focusing and fits into the case for the 70-200 lens.

[@tv510]

That is another good reason to have those lenses, travel. That is a big deal, getting these tools to fit into an overhead compartment.

[@suvomaz]

I got my lens today ... very impressed by how easy it is to hand hold. A worthy successor to the earlier F mount zoom.

[@tv510]

Indeed. Enjoy your lens and thanks for watching.

[@stuartphotography1968]

Great to hear you are a happy camper Terry, it's a fantastic Lens 👍

[@tv510]

Thanks Stuart!

[@RosieThompson-w6j]

This video really helped me understand my camera and all its functions - Thankyou for such a simple yet informative video! :)

[@tv510]

I'm so glad! Thanks for watching.

[@jethompson]

Great information! Just received my Z 180-600mm two days ago and already have great shots with my Z-7 of birds, Herrons, ducks, and geese. Was amazed by how great the shots were and learned some of what you mentioned here, but also learned a lot more. Because I've already used it, I can follow along much better and took a few notes. I'm not a professional photographer, and self taught, but have had a few figure skating photos published several years ago by US Figure Skating. I'm an electrical engineer and used math (calculating light power) to justify switching from Pentax to Nikon D300 because of their 70-200mm F2.8 (many years ago). This is my first Z only lens and I'm not disappointed. I also thought the price was very much on the low side, compared to about $2k for the 70-200mm. This lens is opening a new aspect of photography for me and I appreciate the information you provided in this video, I subscribed and hit the bell - looking forward to see more of your videos!

[@tv510]

Fantastic! You're going to have a blast working with that new lens, thanks for the subscription.

[@sunil3135]

Great review, up-to-the-point info presented at a perfect pace.

[@tv510]

Much appreciated! Thanks for the kind words and thanks for watching.

[@johnnyViDeO]

You must have been a teacher. The video is precise, full of useful tips, and sparing the usual banter. The only suggestion I have is to include more sample photos. Perhaps you can make a second video about using the lens for video. It would also be awesome to see a video about using the lens with the Z7 II, especially when it comes to focus. ROCK ON!

[@tv510]

Thanks Johnny. I've just been a professional photographer for quite some time and I have only taught photography, which I love doing. Thanks for the suggestions.

[@ginolagace473]

Wow, this by far the best review and tutorial i ever watch on a lens ! Big thanks !

[@tv510]

Glad it was helpful! Thanks for watching!

[@realnikonlover6207]

Thanks! I got mine today. Same situation. A wonderful lens.

[@tv510]

Great to hear! Thanks for watching.

[@radupetrupetica]

Hello, sir, and thank you for the video! Looks like an amazing lens. I recently got my first mirrorless camera, a Nikon Z5 together with the 24-200mm lens and I'm amazed about the image quality compared with my old Nikon D5600 DSLR camera. I would love to own this lens and try it will the Z5. Unfortunately I don't have anymore budget for it. Maybe in a few years😍

[@tv510]

Yes I understand. If you get ahead on some cash along the way, maybe try renting it. Especially if you have a weeks worth of shooting to do, could be lot of fun without the heavy price tag.

[@radupetrupetica]

@@tv510 yes, I'll try that too. Thank you sir! Much health with respect!

[@only_wildlife_by_lin7056]

Great video👏🏻 Thank you for your step by step explanation.

[@tv510]

You are welcome , thanks for watching.

[@tv510]

Glad it was helpful!

[@photoinshot1355]

Great video, very helpful and very clearly presented and well explained, thanks! Very good point about the graphics in the menu not necessarily representing the controls on the lens. I set the focus ring to non on both clockwise and counterclockwise, nothing changed, but when I set the last button (not the ring) to none it disabled the manual focus ring. Using the 180-600 with Z8 I often found with action shots, and especially so, when I removed the tripod collar it was very easy to nudge the manual focus ring resulting in out of focus shots. Now fixed, thanks again!

[@tv510]

Fantastic! It's a great lens to work with.

[@antonoat]

I'm just thinking using this with the new Nikon Z50II which as you know is a crop sensor camera could be great fun, 270-900mm angle of view equivalent! Also super light!

[@tv510]

Yes, I'm sure it would work well with that body. Be sure to have some good camera support, (tripod/monopod) not so much for the weight, but for the magnification. Magnification will increase the image bouncing around in the frame. Good luck!

[@alexwaterton9769]

Excellent review Terry, Have pre-ordered mine s just being patient until it arrives eventually :) Keep up the great reviews and KZbin's very much appreciate high quality professional reviews

[@tv510]

You are welcome, Alex. Thanks for watching.

[@PeterDolphin472]

One point about aperture limitations is that to get a wider aperture you have to pay thousands more for the lens and for possibly most people that is too much. 6.3 is a good compromise giving you this great lens at a reasonable price. Also this is a very good video on giving an overall view of the lens. One point in particular is how you explain that the 4 lens function buttons all do the same action. This point is missing from other reviews. Thanks.

[@tv510]

Thanks Peter. I just do videos the way I would want to see them. Glad it works.

[@zonhisham]

Hi Terry, Which RRS lens plate you using there. I like the size of it as it fits nicely. TIA.

[@tv510]

I use the MPR-73 Multi Purpose Rail from Really Right Stuff. Here's a link: reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/

[@cryptographerchris4856]

Best video of this lens. Thanks for sharing. With the lens wide open what will it change to through the zoom range with the 1.4x t/c attached?

[@tv510]

Yes it will, you will lose a whole f/stop. Not the best choice for using a 1.4 but otherwise a great lens.

[@cryptographerchris4856]

@ thanks. Was thinking the same thing.

[@myketripp3838]

Excellent video. Lost patience waiting for it and decided on the 600pf and all the prime qualities. I will get this one in the future, again this video is well done.

[@tv510]

Nice. Let us know what you think about shooting the 600pf when you get some shots under your belt. Congrats!

[@shotsbyscott6243]

Great review Terry. My friends and I received our lenses when they first shipped and we are all pleased the performance of this lens, especially at price point. I stopped using my Nikon 200-500mm lens a long time ago and switched to the 500mm PF lens. It was nice to you use a zoom again! Now my 500mm PF lens is collecting a little dust. I did my own lens comparison between the two lens and both are very sharp. Yes, the 500mm PF is an f/5.6 lens and lighter. Thanks again!

[@tv510]

Lighter weight is always nice, but the versatility of a "good" zoom is hard to beat. Thanks for watching.

[@larryim2000]

Terry, I am especially interested in the way you have the Peak Design strap connected to your camera and not the lens as most people suggest for a long lens. What is your rationale? I struggle with how to connect a strap to this kind of setup. With my Z9 and 500pf, I felt comfortable connecting to the camera, but the 180-600 is heavier than the 500pf. Thanks for your response and for this review!

[@tv510]

Hey Larry, One of the features of this lens, is that you can take off the lens foot and the ring to make it easier to hand hold and to remove a bit of weight. When you take off the foot, you take off the ring, and with the ring removal you take off the only attachment for the lens. It's just easier to use the camera strap. Also, it makes things easier when having on a tripod, one less strap to get in your way. Just my take on that.

[@street_biologist6727]

Great review Terry as always. Thank you! I am hoping to place an order sometime this Fall.

[@tv510]

Nice, thanks for watching.

[@halstewart3650]

A thorough review. Thanks for your effort.

[@tv510]

My pleasure! Thanks for watching.

[@Tamjam2011]

Excellent, concise and easy to understand tutorial. Thank you! 🙏

[@tv510]

Glad it was helpful, thanks for watching.

[@tv510]

Thank you for the kind words and views.

[@chuckalvarado8484]

Hi Terry, My lens is on back order but I am now armed with your video. Much appreciated on your deep dive on this lens. Thank you.

[@tv510]

You're going to love it Chuck. Enjoy!

[@elizabethmoya7303]

I’m fascinated by this channel , you are great! I have the Z9 and just got this lenses . Which tripod would you recommend?

[@tv510]

Hi Elisabeth, Tripods are an interesting subject. I am planning a video about in the coming months. But my take is to buy the best you can afford. If you buy good quality to begin with, you will never have to buy a tripod again. Most people buy a cheap tripod and realize it doesn't work at head hight. They then buy a medium priced one and come to the same conclusion. This is one of those buy great when you buy the first one, then not ever buy it again. I use Really Right Stuff ($1500) and Sachtler ($2000) for my video work. Make sure to subscribe or get on my mailing list and I'll let you know when my tripod video is complete. ([e-mail]) for the mailing list. Good luck and thanks for watching.

[@guyyowell8547]

Very informative Terry! I was able to take delivery of this lens quite early as an NPS member and I’m very impressed with the performance thus far. Can you please let me know exactly which ArcaSwiss plate from RRS you’re using? Many thanks!

[@tv510]

Yep, Here is the link: reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/

[@guyyowell8547]

@@tv510 Thanks so much!! I just placed the order!

[@stevewalsh5479]

Have you tried the TC-2.0x with this lens? I found autofocus completely unusable with the teleconverter attached, even in bright sunlight outdoors.

[@tv510]

Hi Steve, no, I haven't used the TC 2.0. I used one years ago and found it to be such poor quality I never went back. I have used the 1.4 on lenses but not this one. The prospect of using a 1.4 converter for an already slow aperture, I figured I'd just try to get closer to my subject. Some lenses work well with converters and others not so much.

[@ss7300]

Could you please tell me the name and model of the ballhead and the cameta L bracket 😊

[@tv510]

I use Really Right Stuff ball heads (B55) and L brackets. However, Kirk makes some nice products I have started to use more of.

[@haroldbielstein3530]

Would it be better to attach your camera strap to the lens instead of the camera body?

[@tv510]

On longer lenses, I do both the lens and body. This lens you can do either and be fine, it’s not that heavy.

[@khfishn]

Thanks Terry for a very thorough overview of this lens. I would have preordered sooner if I had watched this video. What RRS plate did you use?

[@tv510]

Well then Nikon needs to furnish me with pre production lenses! Ha! Here is the link to the plate: reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/

[@LocalGgs69]

I ordered mine yesterday. With the z 50 i can get up to 900mm. I cant wait no longer

[@tv510]

You're going to love it!

[@Multirolo2010]

Great video Terry and extremely useful particularly how to mount the Lens Foot to a plate using two screws rather than one. Could you please advise if the screws shown were supplied with the Plate as I would like to get similar screws but not sure if they are readily available and what the specs of the screws are? Any help on this would be appreciated. Keep up the good work on your clear concise video content.

[@tv510]

When you buy one of those plate - that one is from Really Right Stuff - Here is link to their web site. reallyrightstuff.com/mpr113/ Some come with screws, some only come with one. Call them to make sure you get the right size and screw count. Here is the one I have: reallyrightstuff.com/mp73/ - but I don't know that they sell it with two screws anymore. Check first.

[@Multirolo2010]

@@tv510 Terry Many Thanks that's very helpful and very much appreciated.

[@stevelink3]

Hey Terry, thank you for your Excellent video on the virtues of this great Nikkor Z 180-600 zoom! Just FYI, for my bird photography, rather than mess with the 1.4 teleconverter (which can have a slight negative impact on image quality), I simply switch between FX and DX modes if I want a slightly magnified image. I find that doing this has a negligible impact on image quality when compared to a teleconverter. That said, I usually use this lens with a monopod or tripod, as I find it difficult to handhold and obtain consistently sharp results, especially at the 500 or 600mm focal lengths.

[@tv510]

Yeah, Steve, I'm almost always on a tripod. Shooting at 1/4000 and above seems to help, but the monopod or tripod allows me to spend more time waiting on a fixed spot. Thanks for watching.

[@stevetqp9152]

Good point Terry! Thanks again for your superb video!

[@TheTiffini22]

Just got mine! Thank you for the video. COuld you clarify what sort of plate I need for tripod mounting please? Where and what do I ask for? Thank you!!

[@tv510]

Hi Tiffini, I am showing the MPR-73 from Really Right Stuff. reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/ They look like they are out of stock at this time but it fits perfectly.

[@oskanov]

Hello, Terry. Thanks much for your great review. I still have a question. I've bought this lens but have no idea how to switch off VR, if I need to record sound and don't want the sound of VR be recorded?

[@tv510]

The VR is only controllable through the camera. I usually use the "I" on the back of the camera to access the quick menu and turn it off there. However, a better solution is to record your audio separate, off camera. I know, it's more gear, extra work to sync, etc., but the results give you much more control and better quality. Let me know if you would like to see more videos on audio. Thanks for watching.

[@davidrennolds969]

Very good video. All functions well explained. Thinking of getting one to use with a Nikon Z6-111 for aircraft photography. Any thoughts on that setup? Dave

[@tv510]

HI David, I think it would be great. The only downside is the speed and I think that the Z6iii can handle high ISO pretty good if need be.

[@randybocksnick3750]

Randy Bocksnick(Montana) 🦬TERRY, Your video on the 1800-600 lense is wonderful! I pre-0rdered this lense on Aug 5th ! Got the Z8 on May 26th recieved the 100-400 almost a year ago! By the way TERRY I subscribed to your channel! Here's something you probably didn't realize is that you have a Great Voice behind the Microphone!! Question?- TERRY have you ever been to MONTANA? I'M 79 YRS OLD AND BEEN A PHOTOGHRAPHER FOR 60YRS! TAKE CARE.

[@tv510]

Hey Randy, I love the Montana area, I'm usually there in the fall every year, but couldn't make it this year. But next fall for sure. You're going to love the lens. Thanks for all the compliments.

[@highanddryful]

Terry thanks for this very informative tutorial. Can you suggest a body to pair with this lens which is also affordable? The Z8 Z9 are way above my budget. Thanks

[@tv510]

It only works with Z cameras, so the next one down is the Z7 I think.

[@alirashdan7184]

great review. What's the front outer diameter of this lens? i know the inner one is 95mm. I am looking for a matte box to put on the lens for 4x4 square filters. any idea Terry?

[@tv510]

I think it’s 82, but I don’t have the lens in front of me.

[@Bug4music]

Great video, subscribed and looking forward to more!

[@tv510]

Welcome aboard! Thanks!

[@davejackson4274]

Hi Terry, I'm confused, I don't seem to be able to assign ANY functions to the lens control ring - using Z9. I've been told it's a focus ring NOT a lens control ring. Going into Custom menu F2, shows all the options but nothing I do will change it from just being a focus ring, I can't even turn it off so it does nothing. Any ideas?

[@tv510]

HI Dave, I believe there is a focus ring and another ring that is programmable. It's the small ring that you can program.

[@davejackson4274]

@@tv510 sorry, only just seen your reply. Yes, I found it in the end, the in camera diagram showing which rings to program is inaccurate I think

[@mariospenard5125]

Clear review and pleasant to listen… thanks

[@tv510]

Thank you for watching.

[@oskanov]

Hello, Terry. I'd like to ask you about Nikon Z9 + Nikkor 180-600. When VR is on in Normal mode the target shifts every time you release shutter. I read in Internet and many people confirms the same

[@tv510]

I haven't had that issue with the 180 to 600, sorry.

[@oskanov]

@@tv510 Thanks for you quick reply. Sorry, for insisting, but I asked the same question to another great wildlife photographer - Jan Wegener. He answered "Yes" it re-centers". So that means it is not my camera or lens, but feature (or bug?) he knew about. kzbin.info/www/bejne/j53ZYXV-gK2bqtU&lc=Ugxi33xSqTMaq9g9SQp4AaABAg.A1gSckxZZULA1gSz581sa4 The thing is that you might have not noticed it as I noticed it in March though have been using lens since December. If you have Z9 and 180-600 may I ask you to check it over. It is easy to do: you need to switch on VR stabilization in Photo Menu, set mode "Normal" then aim using central point to some object, focus on it with semi-pressing release-shutter button and release shutter. Matrix shifts. If you'd be so kind, and give me email, I sent you a video and some photos to see how it looks like. I'd really appreciate if you could confirm or deny this feature/bug, as you are among those few men I consider fair experts. Thanks for reading and you time Yakov

[@tv510]

@@oskanov Sorry, that lens out for a while, I don't have access to it right now, when it comes back, I'll give it a go. Likely not until later in the year.

[@oskanov]

thank you 🙌@@tv510

[@johneast7987]

The FX to DX switch on the lens button doesn't work on the Z7ii

[@tv510]

Hi John, I don't use the Z7 line so I have no experience with it. Thanks for letting people know, here in the comments so if they run into that, they will know why. Thanks for watching.

[@PatrickSmeaton]

This video was very helpful. I set my lens buttons to Recall Focus Position, which is going to kick ass for shooting birds, and makes the limiter switch unnecessary. Regarding the RRS lens plate...did you buy a second 1/4" -20 screw or did it come with two?

[@tv510]

Hey Patrick, I think it came with two, but I have several for different uses and might have just borrowed one from another plate. If you order the plate, get a second screw for sure.

[@PatrickSmeaton]

@@tv510 thank you!

[@AlanMcLaren]

I just received my copy after ordering it on the first day. I was excited until I FOUND THIS LENS DOES NOT DO "FOCUS RECALL with Z6, and this was one of the reasons I purchased this lens. Nikon informed me that I need a newer Z Camera for this function to work. I do not have other z cameras to see how this works on them. If the lens had a second L-fn2 button it could work like the 70-200mm f2.8. this is a consumer lens, that needs new updated z Cameras, yet the Pro lens works on the older z Cameras

[@tv510]

Yeah Alan, my guess is that Nikon it positioning this lens to further sales of the Z8 and Z9. On the Z9 it works fabulously.

[@AlanMcLaren]

​@@tv510 you may be right.... but to not to know till you get the product home and use it to find out, is not nice. Nikon has let me know they will let me return this. I would prefer there be an Firmware update and yes, I ask Nikon if they would. Waiting for an answer. This is a consumer lens, but only has full function on the pro z Cameras. The interesting part is that it(Save Focus) works on the 70-200mm 2.8 but not 180-600mm on the Z6.

[@AlanMcLaren]

You did a very good job on your "Set up and Deep Dive" video. Thank you.

[@tv510]

@@AlanMcLaren you are welcome. Thanks for watching.

[@isoawe1888]

Wish Nikon would let you pick which button you want to be fn 1 / 2. With my lenses with both, I almost always use fn2. If I use a lens with one button , then I have to have same setting to that button. If Nikon would let me change fn2 to fn1, it would open up another button. Is there a Nikon site where you make make suggestions? Haven’t got a lot back from NPS. With Tamron 35-150, the ISO changes automatically. Not sure I like that. It’s my only variable lens.

[@tv510]

I would have suggested NPS. Please let us know if you find a way to make suggestions.

[@TheTennfisher]

Thanks for the excellent video Terry. I hope to get this lens someday, unfortunately I didn't pre-order from Nikon until June 27th so I didn't make the cut on the first shipment.

[@tv510]

You'll get it and it will be worth the wait.

[@khalifaalammari58yt]

Hi, I have a question I appreciate if you answer it. I have a Z9 with 180-600 lens can I take a picture will I'm shooting videos and how? Thank you.

[@tv510]

I don't know of a way to shoot stills and video at the same time. However, depending on the use, you can pull a still from your video clip and if you are shooting at 8K (Z9) it should be pretty good, if focus and motion blur are considered. Good luck!

[@khalifaalammari58yt]

Thank you

[@binodwatson]

Hi Sir! Will it fast enough when used with Z7ii as shown in this video at 7.28 . I am a bad i mean bird photographer. Will it's af be fast enough to catch the flappy birds in flight?

[@tv510]

It should be fast enough, but make sure you have a fast enough shutter speed to stop the action.

[@binodwatson]

@@tv510 😊 thanks a ton for ur reply.

[@johnpeterka8355]

Terry, thank you for your video! Have you used or tested a Tamron 150-500 F/5 - 6.7 for the Nikon Z cameras? If so and except for being shorter, is it as good or better than the Nikon 180 - 600? Lastly, how would this new Nikon Z lens compare to the Nikon Z 100-400 F/4.5 - 5.6 with a TC-1.4?

[@tv510]

HI John, I have not used the Tamron lenses at all. So I have no information on those. What I have found with adding a TC to a medium priced lens, the results are decent but not great. However the pricey prime lenses that have the TC built in, are fantastic. I just think that the TC's are a solution for getting closer. but not a great one. (Except for the prime lenses) I have found to be better off, shooting with a high Megapixel camera and zooming in post is better results than using a TC. Just my take, but maybe I need to do a video on using a TC?

[@johnpeterka8355]

Thank you! We currently use a Z9 and a Z7 II. Normally, we shoot people and weddings. However, I would like to dabble in wildlife and some sports. Our local camera store owner let me borrow a Tamron 150-500 F/5 - 6.7 for the Z mount. I thought that the lens was: 1) Nice lens in lots of light. Pushing ISO in lower light or when increasing shutter speed lowers the quality. 2) Bokeh was better than anticipated. 3) Colors were accurate and solid. 4) Images are very good in the middle but fall off in the corners. 5) Challenged when using autofocus on dark objects with low contrast. Did not resort to manual focus. 6) Image jumped from in-focus to out-of-focus, especially when boosting ISO and in dark low contrast. 7) Need to use a monopod or tripod to get sharpest photos. I was hoping that your vast experience could put me on the right path. Thank you so much for your feedback!

[@shinemendwoor]

Thanks professor! What do you think about its weather resistance ? Thank you

[@tv510]

I don't think it will be a problem. Certainly nothing a lens rain jacket can't help if you think you will be in a heavy downpour.

[@johnpeterka8355]

Terry, thank you for your video. I recently purchased the Z 180-600 lens. However, I am getting a shift in my Histogram. All looks well in camera until I export my files to LRC or Nikon NX, then I have to adjust levels to the right. The borrowed Tamron 150-500 gave me much better colors and sharper photos. I contacted both Nikon and Adobe today. Nikon told me that I needed to do a "power cycle" and then retry the lens. So far, I have tried the lens on our Z9 and Z7ii. I am not very happy with the results. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks, JP

[@tv510]

Hi John, thanks for watching. I have never had that problem with any of my Nikon lenses, ever. That said, maybe it is a software issue you are having. I use LRC to do most of my work, and it sounds like you are too. Make sure that your camera is outputting the same color space as your computer programs (Adobe RGB for example). Sorry I couldn't be more help, please keep me posted as to how you solve this.

[@johnpeterka8355]

@@tv510 - Like you, we have no issues with all our other Nikkor lenses. The 180-600 is brand new. We picked it up five days ago and have been trying it for the last two days. I have changed Preferences in LRC from Adobe to Camera Settings. Neither option really resolved my issue. In Nikon NX Studio, I can move the Curves slider from left to right and recover my photos. However, that effort would really add more time to our workflow. We were groomed from an early stage to get the best image possible straight out of camera. You know it is bad when I can get a better image resorting to a crop setting and using our 70-200 f/2.8. Tonight, Nikon told me to clean the connectors before shooting tomorrow. I will also remove the hood. When I asked if the lens might be faulty, the response was as if I had blasphemed the company.

[@tv510]

I would only spend a bit more time testing and get that thing into a box and back to them. This doesn't sound normal. Also, "Clean your connectors" on a NEW lens??? Never heard of such a thing.@@johnpeterka8355

[@johnpeterka8355]

@@tv510 - thank you! I will take your advice!

[@freespool8772]

Will this lens be released for DX/FX format bodys ?

[@tv510]

Highly doubtful. Nikon is creating products so photographers all eventually go toward mirrorless, as I think one day they will not support the DSLR user. Cool lens though.

[@wefxu]

Terry, what Really Right Stuff lens plate are you using?

[@tv510]

The foot that I use that fits very nicely on that lens is a Really Right Stuff MPR-73 (73 mm Multi-Purpose Rail) Link: reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/

[@tomdearie5165]

Thanks, Terry If price was not an issue, would you favour the 400mm f/4.5 or the 180-600mm? I shoot the 200-500mm f/5.6 and shoot in a lot of dawn and dusk situations in Canadian forests and waterways and find myself at very high ISOs in many cases. So much so, that I often start my day with the 70-200mm f/2.8 on the camera, despite it being short. I was recently off the coast of Vancouver Island photographing coastal wolves and got some great shots - but the ISOs were getting pretty astronomical. Happy to hear your thoughts. Cheers Tom

[@tv510]

I like the 180 to 600 for wildlife however, that being said, I also have some of the high end primes. One trick that I use a lot, is that in the low times of the day, I shoot video. (I know, weird) but shooting down to a 60th of a second for video gives you lot of light. Might be something to experiment with.

[@tomdearie5165]

👍Yes - that’s what I did with the coastal wolves when the ISO was pushing past 12,800. It’s a tough call, and I think it comes down to a fight between flexibility of zooming out as my kayak drifts into the subject, and speed to get the low-light shots I’m looking for. I may have to try them both. Cheers and thanks. 😎

[@Mr09260]

GREAT VIDEO I cant wait for mine in S Africa to go with my Z7

[@Mr09260]

I have at the moment the Z 70-200 plus 1.4 x convertor as my only very undergunned power wise Wild Life lens so the 180-600 will be a perfect partner. I would LOVE your out of reach for me Z9

[@tv510]

Yes it is a really cool camera, but when you are armed with this lens, you will love it.

[@rcgrant9310]

Terry, Did you attach the RRS - MPR-73: 73mm Multi-Purpose Rail on your lens? Thanks...

[@tv510]

Yes, they are small and fit really good. The next best thing to a Acra Swiss foot. reallyrightstuff.com/mpr73/

[@Buckshot00fan]

​@@tv510what was that Star Wars looking gimble thing?

[@tv510]

@@Buckshot00fan I use a Wimberly Gimbal. Love it and it works great!

[@Buckshot00fan]

@@tv510 Thank you for that information

[@cryptographerchris4856]

Great video. Wonder why they did not make it an "S" lens? Your thoughts?

[@tv510]

I think they were trying to make a lens that would be affordable to the masses. Cutting a few small corners can drop the price and rationalize the price difference.

[@cryptographerchris4856]

Going by construction, sharpness and all the reviews, almost seems like it's an "S" lens already. Maybe we all just got lucky. Thanks again. @@tv510

[@walterfrei9218]

Thank you for this short and precise review! I guess the lens is great for hiking in daylight because of the light weight compared with the bigger f4 long lenses. What I don‘t understand is the fact that Nikon could not produce their foots on the long lenses with an integrated Arca-Swiss profile. Sigma does it, Canon and Nikon not…..

[@tv510]

I've never understood that either. If they had a mount they were pushing, I'd understand, but I'm with you on that.

[@mortenbuchard1968]

I have nikkor s-lens Z100-400 with tc 2.0. (200-800 with tc on) could 180-600 do something for me

[@tv510]

I one of those who think that the use of a TC, is just not as sharp. Many times, I would shoot with the straight lens and take my chances cropping after. Just my take.

[@ammadoux]

thanks. very informative. i have the 100-400 mm f5.6 z. excellent lens love the weight with the z50. i know its that WOW but the results are nice, yes a bit slow compared to the OM1. now i want a new z camera, prefer crop body. or shall i get this with z6ii. just a rant.

[@tv510]

Love my Z9 - I'd tell someone to save up for a Z8 because you can get that 20 fps. You can always convert to crop sensor with a flick of a button. Thanks for watching.

[@ammadoux]

thanks for your reply. both 8 and 9 are expensive for me. maybe a crop sensor body with high mp like 33 and nice focus is what i need.

[@ryancooper3629]

Great video, was wondering, in your opinion. For someone who currently is shooting with a Z7ii with a 200-500 on FTZ, what would be a better use of cash to upgrade? - Sell the Z7ii to buy a Z8 - Sell the 200-500 to buy this 180-600 Both would cost about the same and I only have budget for one of the options. My main frustration is that my current setup's autofocus is not very reliable, especially when photographing small birds in low light. (golden hour)

[@tv510]

Not a question. Z8 all the way. With 20fps, and good handling of the high ISO you will love it.

[@ryancooper3629]

@@tv510 Thanks so much, appreciate your wisdom. I made the mistake of buying the Z7ii like 2 months before Z8 hit, but at the same time I didn't have budget for Z8 then anyway so I guess it wouldn't have mattered. Gotta say, I've been shocked at how poor the focusing system is on a $3000 camera. ;)

[@Jimbojam]

yes, the Z8 is a beast in the AF department, plus the speed and the native 180-600mm lens will be better all around

[@ryancooper3629]

@@Jimbojam Thanks, unfortunately, though, since posting I have discovered that the used market for Z7ii is basically non-existent so I don't really have the option of selling mine for anything but a massive loss which means that I simply don't have budget to move to Z8. I was basing the idea on being able to sell the Z7ii for like 70% of its MSRP but the best offer I've gotten is more like 30% of MSRP. Currently I'm leaning towards just saving my pennies for a while and jumping all the way to a 400 4.5, 1.4 TC, and eventually a Z8 down the roa.d

[@craut1809]

Very informative presentation. Can we have a presentation on 180-600 mm vs 800 mm prime. Although they are different, yet a hobbyist like me can’t have both on a birding photography tour, especially in hills and difficult terrains. Finally, thanks a lot for the information on settings.

[@tv510]

Great suggestion! I can't promise it, but let me see what I can do.

[@lgilds07]

Does this lens work with 810 camera

[@tv510]

No, it’s only for Z cameras, like the Z9 or Z8.

[@garymeredith2441]

Terry you did a great review on this great lens I wish I could buy one , but I can't I use canon I don't know when canon is going to make a lens like this that actually works actually works ???? Canon they they think there 100 to 500 is answer to all and it's not , I tried that lens I didn't like it at all you can't even use it with a Tele -'Converter . Keep up these great product reviews for nikon their Terry I might just want to switch in the nikon myself .

[@tv510]

Hey Gary, I have a friend who has used the 100- 500 on his Canon and he says the same thing, not great. Nikon makes some pretty good lenses. Though Canon has some great stuff too. That 200 f/1.8 is pretty sweet that Canon has. Thanks for watching.

[@The_Smashsquatch]

Am I stupid for wanting to get this for my z7ii. I always see people crapping on it.

[@tv510]

Not at all. A good lens will last much longer than any camera body. Likely you will change out your camera body a few times over the life of this lens. And this is a good lens!

[@mylucksmiles]

I find that when shooting wild life because of moment I have to use depth of field of f7 -5 to ensure an acceptable image.The nice thing is lightroom have just added foucs Blair and Denoise updates to their program. I used the lightroom boker to great effect and their denoise .This is an image game changer. My , z lens14-30 was able to create a controlled boker . Thanks to light room the 180-600 z appeals to me not just because of the price.... But because in post production I can now confidently hope to correct noise and boker. The new z lenses on a z 8 ( I have never used a z ,9) gives me great image quality. Really I am wondering if lightroom up grades has brought a new. Twist into buying lenses . It would be really interesting for someone with the top range lenses to do a comparison with the new 180-600 z using light room versus the Top lenses .go on I know I have your interest . Please

[@tv510]

Great minds think alike, its already in the works.

[@alihamiad7849]

7:13 Full focus

[@tv510]

Thank you!

[@wild_lancer]

Wow nice 👌

[@tv510]

Thanks 😊

[@popeyesweetpea]

Does anyone find it interesting or important to know how many elements in how many groups? Means nothing to me.

[@tv510]

Some folks are into that detail, I think people use it for comparisons of lenses as cheaper lenses have less elements. Thanks for watching though.

[@Nickkettt]

Till waiting from B&H preorder day one😢

[@tv510]

I'm sure it will be along soon, you're going to love it.

[@JianX-pr9ij]

Nice video! I enjoy this lens with my Z8. This is a great upgrade from my D500 with Sigma 150-600mm. The only thing I wish it can be improved is the distance limit focus, to me I like to photograph small birds like warblers, so often my distance is less than 6m, if it is more than 6m I don't bother to shoot because the bird will be too small in the frame. I found often time this lens will try to focus something that is far away while the bird is just right in from of me less than 5m, I had to use manual ring to bring the focus closer then try to focus again, I missed quite some shots while doing this. With my old Sigma 150-600, it has two distance limits, one is 10m to infinity, and the other is less than 10m which I found was very useful. It seems all Nikon lens only have far distance limit, and don't have near distance limit. I don't understand why. I really hope Nikon could add this feather to the future product. For bird photography, distance is the key to get excellent picture, it is so frustrating when you are close to the bird and the camera can't focus!

[@dicekolev5360]

Well, then simply get the z100-400m, the price difference is worth for literally macro shots.

[@tv510]

I totally agree. There are times I would like to limit the focus to just close items, it would nice to have it be restricted in the other direction.

[@JianX-pr9ij]

400mm is too short for small bird. Wild bird is always hard to approach, that's why bird photographer want 600, 800mm plus TC to be able to fill the frame, 400mm is just not for birds @@dicekolev5360

[@brucegreaves3204]

A great lens but I can only use it on a tripod. Just a tad too heavy.

[@tv510]

I do most of work from a tripod, but I’m with you on hand holding for extended periods, it’s no fun. Thanks for watching.

[@rrreint]

@@tv510 When i get tired while handholding the lens, i will let it hanging down. Will this damage the lens mount of my Z6 body?

[@tv510]

@@rrreint If your strap is on your camera body the stress is being up on the body and very little on the lens. If you are able strap the lens, then that would be marginally better. Either way, I don' think there is much stress on the lens mount. Enjoy!

[@rrreint]

@@tv510 Thank you very much for your answer.

[@alihamiad7849]

Conclusions 20:33

[@tv510]

Thanks for letting me know.

[@arizonaaviationlive]

I really want this lens in lieu of my Sigma 150-600. I really do like the custom function on the Sigma though were I can program the focal range in which I set to 100 meters to infinity for airshow photos. This really eliminates focus hunting and has drastically increased the keeper ratio. If Nikon added custom focal ranges, I'd jump on it. 6 meters is way too close for the default range. C'mon Nikon, we're not buying this lens for subjects that close.

[@tv510]

I totally agree. I would also like focus ranges that can be locked in. One's that are more useful.

[@Alfred-d7y]

Good informative video, but, to suggest that the price of this lens should over 3000 dollars or Euro, it is a blow under the belt for us, who can’t afford expensive lens.. 😐

[@tv510]

I doubt Nikon would be watching and say, "That Terry guy on KZbin says the 180 to 600 should cost more, let's raise the price." I said that only to illustrate was a great deal that lens is compared to other long options. Its worth saving up for, thanks for watching and good luck.

[@Alfred-d7y]

@@tv510 noted.😏

[@Alfred-d7y]

This morning I saw in Nikon Rumors that Nikon increased the price of this lens by 200 Dollars.Quote: " Nikon increased the price of the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR lens by $200:" I am sure it is not because of you, but, they are quick to get ideas 🌝

[@tv510]

Wow, that doesn’t surprise me the way everything seems to be going. Great lens though.

[@Alfred-d7y]

@@tv510 Yes, it is...that is for sure...thank you for your videos...