Got rid of my r7 because I'm tired of waiting on the canon side. Nikon is embracing 3rd party, and it will benefit them in the future, plus they are making awesome lenses that don't break the bank.
The non mechanical shutter sucks in bright sunny days and low light. Poor dynamic range when compared to mechanical shutter cameras. Can’t wait for the Sony a7iv + 200-600mm vs z9 180-600mm for IQ 😊.
I wish I would have known before I got too invested in Canon. Personally would have went with Sony in hindsight. I love my Canon stuff (R7, RP and originally had a T7) but you get way more for your money in other brands.
@@Beaver-be8vkSo true lol canon lost me when they said no to 3rd party as well as not making any middle of the road lenses like this or even a 1.4 prime. If they're are gonna snub 3rd party support atleast release more lenses to fill the gaps. It's either super expensive or ultra budget lenses no in-between.
@@lewcehjitl3282I'll be getting a z6ii since I found them on mpb for a really good price. I used to have that 200-600 and it's truly amazing but I love way the nikon files look and these new lenses are looking good. Sony and nikon people are moving forward with cool lenses and canon is stuck on body's body's body's 😂.
@@lewcehjitl3282this doesn’t actually seem to be true. I hear quite a few people bringing this up, but it’s just not proving accurate. I shot with an R5 for two years and now shoot with the Z8. Do a lot of my shooting during mid day backing (bright, huge dynamic range). The Z8 has shown no downside whatsoever. Files have all around been as good or better than the canon sun every situation I’ve tested (especially in low light)
i love the inclusion of the RAW image and then the cropped final version. It helps when you looking at your own photo's when you get home you have to look beyond the RAW image to see the potential in the shot.
There are many aspects of your channel I enjoy, but I particularly appreciate the way you display the photos, showing us both the final image and the original RAW file. Do you have a video showing the process from when you get back home and are sat at your computer. I ask, being someone who currently shoots JPEGs but can see clearly how the images are enhanced through the post-production process. Fabulous channel, thank you.
Thank you for sharing Duade, nice to see you having fun with the Z9 and the new lens. Have a Z9 myself and pre-orderderd the 180-600mm, so looking forward using this combo. For the autofocus, I use the fn1,2 and 3 buttons at the front of the camera to switch between modes. Have this set tot Area Wide, 3D and single point. My fingers are now used to switch between these modes when i have to. Easy to use now. RUclipsr Trond Westby has a video about his settings on the Z9, and got this from him. Been using it ever since. Again, thank you for sharing Duade, always happy to see one of your new videos online. And looking forward for the next one. Cheers!
G,Day, Great Vid, really nice to see another make and lens used and your initial impressions. I'm envious about the locations and colourful birds you manage to find. ( being from the UK it didn't look as cold as you said though, although I know a blue sky doesn't mean its warm).
I really enjoy seeing the different brands (and your enthusiasm). After a long hiatus (using Nikon and Minolta, back in the manual focus, film and a light meter days) I picked the hobby back up a few years ago with the introduction of the R5 and it's just amazing how far all these cameras have come. Coming back from a couple days with literally hundreds maybe thousands of sharp well exposed images, well it still amazes me. So glad to have those early experiences to compare and help me appreciate these amazing cameras.
Thanks Dan, yes, I think we take it for granted, I am old enough to remember sending off the film to be developed and waiting a week for it to come back. But having to develop your own film etc must have been some process, to compare taking thousands of shots now and instantly viewing them must seem like magic. Cheers, Duade
A fresh new person that doesn't think he knows it all. And his way is the only way hes just out there. Having nice, good fun and just his point of view, that's all. That's a good way I like it. Keep it up, man.
Early in your vid and you made me smile when you mentioned success on the road. This is a favorite part of my photography cos it works. Cruising along on a multi hour drive to a location enjoying the music and hey there's a bird on a stick or a post or a fence wire. Take the time to nonchalantly turn about and approach said bird and start snapping at a distance and gradually decreasing distance till feathered fluffy f^&ks off. LOL. And the gorgeous Brown Falcon is one of many species I have my favorite shots of in this way. In fact my only BF shots are through the window of my car.
Thanks mate, yes, me too, I have many shots this way. The BF was a surprise as it literally did not care I was there which is unusual and what we hope for. Now I just have my fingers crossed that one day a Black Falcon will be so accommodating. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade I recall one road encounter just two weeks ago. I took a friend for a drive along one of my favorite roads. It's a narrow dirt road and she's a native plant fan as I am. I pulled up beside an Acacia for her to ID and she looks past me out my window and asked "what bird is that?" I turned and looked at a BF not more than 4m from me on top of a small shrub. It probably said "Hi Rob" cos I often see them along that road. I just sat and enjoyed it. No point lifting the camera cos it would just go. And the 800mm has MFD of 5m anyway. No shot but just as wonderful to have such a close encounter with a pretty little bird.
@@robguyatt9602 What a nice experience, the wattles are starting to colour up around here at the moment. I have the threatened Acacia triptera on my property which I am proud of. The birds love it. Have fun with the Z9 when it returns, Cheers, Duade
Duade! You taking us to a new location is a treat, ofc. This one won't be on our itinerary, sadly, we won't have the time to explore Victoria that far NW. So, in this case I enjoy seeing something you explore for me/us, so we get to see it second-hand. Loved that Red-rumped photo! Also: did you diss the Musk Ducks at 10:21-10:28 in favor for the Pelicans? Such a scandal! (🤭) I liked the resulting photo, though. Personally I prefer the fogg-muted pastel colours to the black-and-white version, but, that's me. I know you're spreading your wings in more diverse directions, now. I did however spot a few gorgeous "Bird on a stick" photos here, ha ha! Like that Brown Falcon, Black-winged Kite AND the Red-rumped Parrots. The Singing Honeyeaters on the salt bushes were a treat as well.Oh, and the perched Wedgie was a bonus, I think.
Thanks Pia, nice pickup on the Musk Ducks, such weird looking birds, I still need good photos of that species. Yes, nothing wrong with a good bird on a stick shot. Yep, the Wedgie was great to see, such big birds that you will see gliding around in the sky. Cheers, Duade
Love those moments where you start talking, and then spot something. They really do bring a smile. Good to see a bit of a road trip experience. You'll be encouraged to know Duade that your videos around bird photography have meant that I was able to be aware of some things as I played with some sea gulls today. I'm in an online group that has monthly challenges with live feedback sessions, and this month is birds. I'm no bird photographer, but having seen many of your videos, gave me a little confidence to have a go. I came home with some images I'm pleased with, and learnt some things as well. Sea gulls seemed a good easy picking to work with. Was great to just simply watch their behaviour too. So thank you!!
Lovely, lovely video. The locations were beautiful with the tracks winding through. The hovering black-shouldered kite, moody fog shots, so many special, gorgeous photos. Thank you so much Duade, for sharing with us all the time, effort, discomfort, and your joy. You are one super-talented man.
G'day Joan, just wanted to say a big thank you for your support, I really do appreciate it, feel free to email me at duade.paton@gmail.com should you have any questions or want one of my images to print. Thanks again, Duade
Do love your vids. Only recently got into photography and heading over to Victoria in feb from the uk. Would love any info on must visit places for wildlife photography whilst I’m there. Keep up the good work.
Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always Duade, every time I see your videos I feel like im in school and I learned so much so much from you that I am proud to say that you are my mentor, keep up with the awesome content 👌👍🐦
Great video, always enjoy your field trips, I think you’ve got the balance between showing us the gear options and the field trips just right. As a life long Canon shooter I’m starting to think I might switch to Nikon because of the Lenses they are offering. Regards Chris
Great video mate. That lens looks like a extremly good value for the money. Long time waiting for the sun to come up, but when it finally did come, the results did come too. Loved the photo of those Australian Pelicans on the water. Amazing birds. Wish you a great weekend. Cheers Bjoern
Thanks Duade. I have the lens on order. My Z9 is set up with the AF -ON button on "Wide area" and the FN 1 and FN3 are 3D Tracking (so whether shooting horizontal or verticle the front button 3D tracking is in the same place relative to my middle finger). The set up works well for me. I have grown to absolutely love the Z9. It is an amazing instrument, and the firmware upgrades have been better than I was hoping. Somehow, I have used the Z9 so much the weight feels "right" and the AF does the trick most of the time. I've learned that shooting with a "quiet" background gives the AF its very best chance to grab and hold moving subjects. Over the past year, the 9 and I have learned to get on nicely (and my skill at assisting with manual focus has improved. :)
I am really enjoying your winter outings Duade and especially those fog/misty mornings that offer you so much opportunity for creativity then clear to beautiful golden winter light. Just an observation but surely Australia is the lucky country for diversity of birding where you never seem to travel far without encountering our feathered friends! The lens looks similar in size/weight to the Tamron equivalent we both own. Shame Canon were not able to price their RF 100-500mm super zoom lens in a similar manner to Nikon. Many highlights for me in such diverse winter light including your selective use of B&W, inquisitive Singing Honeyeaters almost checking you out, misty Pelicans including graceful inflight shot, stunning Black Swan silhouette in golden winter light, a beauty Black Cormorant inflight and that sparkling backlit Eastern Grey. So much to enjoy with diverse winter light Duade! Thanks as always for your efforts mate.
Thanks Mike, I appreciate the feedback and happy to hear you enjoyed the outing, yes, we are very lucky to have the diversity in birdlife we have. On reflection it was a successful trip. Cheers, Duade
I have been using the Nikon Z9 for over a year now, initially with the Z 100 - 400 zoom. After a really long wait, I finally got the Z 800 mm f/6.3 prime in June. I have been amazed at the image stabilization with this combination. I have photographed perched Great Gray Owls at 1/160 of a second, hand held with no camera support and recorded very sharp images. I recently added a Z8 to my kit, and have been using it when I have to walk long distances to photograph birds. I am assuming you have the latest firmware 4.0 for the Z9. Each firmware update has improved the animal eye tracking. For birds in flight, I have the AF-On button in Wide Area Large with focus acquisition. I start with that and once focus is acquired, I press the Function 1 button with my middle finger to switch to 3D tracking with focus acquisition. The Function 2 button is programmed for Single point with focus acquisition. I often that for focusing on perched birds.
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts Scott, I appreciate it, congrats on the 800 6.3, a good friend of mine went into the jungles of Indonesia with that lens and everyone on the trip was blown away by the shots he was getting handheld. I have also experienced the incredible IBIS/VR and I am very impressed. Cheers, Duade
Great video, Duade. I recently went mirrorless with a Z8 and have the 180-600 on pre-order. May I ask your thoughts on the performance of the 1.4TC? Perhaps include this in any follow-on reviews? Really enjoy your vids, please keep up the good work.
Nice to see someone have a great day afield! Still waiting on mine 😢. I’m not very patient and I’m learning that is a big part of wildlife photography, especially birds. You have helped me a great deal.
Great video, as usual. Funny how getting out, having patience and persistence improves your chances of getting good shots! I hope you continue to make these great videos.
Great Video, thank you so much for taking us with you! Would you say now is a good time to pick up the older Nikon glass 200-500? Would love to pair it with my D500 :)
I have wide area autofocus set on the shutter button and 3-D tracking on the AF-On button. For flying birds I acquire focus with the wide area and then hand off to 3-D tracking. Wide area will get the bird in focus faster, but you can lose it if it flies out of the box. 3-D tracking is slower to get on the bird, but is very sticky anywhere in the frame once you've got him. If 3-D loses the bird you have wide area to get back on him. I also have spot focus on a function button for stationary birds (small or in the distance) that the camera refuses to recognize, which has been my biggest problem with Nikon autofocus.
Very tempting, but the weight of the Z9 plus this lens is a bit much to hand-hold. Z8 would be a pound lighter but still heavy. Will be interesting to see if you can get the tracking better with birds in flight. I think I will stay with Canon and buy the R5 II when it comes out.
Thanks, yes, the weight is a factor for sure, like you say the Z8 is lighter and I am hoping Nikon release a D500 Mirrorless which will be even lighter to help. I too am waiting on the R5II, I suspect it is going to be incredible. Cheers, Duade
Yeah, 3D tracking with the Z9 can be a bit annoying with certain backgrounds (I'd say almost all 😬), but especially with birds and reflecting water surfaces. I don't use it very often, because I can't rely on it. However, when I use it, I use the backbutton to activate it (I'm a shutter release-AF guy). I think most Nikon shooters are using wide area AF with eye detection as their default and then use the FN buttons to swap to 3D or point AF or whatever, when needed.
I just got my Nikon 180-600mm lens and it takes great pictures. I use the Nikon Z50 camera and I shoot only JPEG medium. My combination was worth the money. Great video. ❤❤❤
I love these sorts of videos, and you couldn't have asked for a better variety of conditions and situations to try out the Nikon combo. You definitely took plenty of great shots. Hopefully Canon will bring out something similar with 600mm or more zoom range. Thanks Duade, I really enjoyed this one 👌.
As a photographer from North Dakota (where it gets very cold in the winter), one of the things that never gets mentioned is it's capacity to operate extremely well in cold temps, even below zero temps on the Fahrenheit scale. When I first got my Z9 I went down to take pics of the holiday train and ran into a pro photographer that could not get his Canon to work in the below zero temps, meanwhile to my joy my Nikon worked flawlessly.
I've set the Z9 to Wide Area tracking (or W-C1) and key the Fn1 button to 3D tracking override. The Fn3 button can also be keyed to 3D tracking override when shooting vertical with W-C2.
I greatly appreciate your practical user reviews, as it helps me make my own purchase decisions. I particularly appreciate your observations regarding "focus breathing," when lenses change focal length as the subject distance changes. As much as I want the greatest possible reach for my birding lenses, I also want the ability to take an opportunistic shot of a butterfly from several feet away. Lenses are typically within 5% of the marked focal length - at infinity. But as you noted many sacrifice their reach for close focus, which is not documented in the manufacturer's specs. Please keep these observations in your reviews as they are most useful!
Great video and some lovely shots. Today I got notified, that at least here in Europe, there still is no expected shipping date. :( Hope to see some questions from your community post answered in a future video. Focus breathing and image quality with the 1.4 TC is particularly interesting to me.
Loving the presentation of your images with the edit including EXIF then the raw and then the crop. Really unique method and so useful. As a Nikon shooter it will be interesting to see the lens comparisons you are planning. Subscribed!
Thanks mate, I don't do a lot to be honest and I am learning myself, I think black and white birds helps or in certain situations where the light is not quite right. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for another great video, easy to watch and very enjoyable thanks to your relaxed presenting style. I only have a Nikon Z6 but am seriously considering this lens due to its good pricing. Thanks again.
Interesting to see your images from this lens. The kangaroo and the black shouldered kite were my favourites. That is a weighty kit, bit heavy for me so will stick with Z7II & the older f mount 200-500 though nearly 3kg using the ftz adaptor.
Hey Duade, nice journey searching for birds and the passion of anticipating what might come your way. Still it's good to see also with pro birders like you the birds are not lined up in a queue waiting for their photos to be taken 😛 With the singing honeyeaters, you had the extra challenge due to this 'tourist' who parked his bright kingfisher-blue car in your line of sight ;-)
Use auto area focus small or large. Assign one of the front function buttons to 3D. Get the bird/animal in the area focus mod. It will start to track then press the 3D button and it will follow the subject in most instances. As with anything in photos you will have to hone this skill
Duade you got some beautiful photos of those Honeycreepers were those male or female Birds . As far as the Z-9 a good birding friend of mine just got one and he's had a lot of trouble with it with the 3D eye tracking he's still using it but he also still likes to use his D500 . Happy Birding there Duade .
Thanks, I am using Jans Z9 settings, I guess I am just used to Canons AF so it takes a little getting used to. The main difference is with Canon you press Eye AF and it just works the majority of the time and then I have spot if it gets confused. With Nikon they have Wide Area with Tracking which appears to acquire focus/subject the best and then 3D tracking which tracks the best, So you have to switch AF often depending on the subject scenario which confuses my old brain. Cheers, Duade
Beautiful, sharp images sir! I have that lens on order, but cannot find an Arca-Swiss foot/collar for it yet. What did you use to mount it on your tripod? Thank you!
@@Duade Hi Duade. Well, I searched for an Arca-Swiss plate for that lens, without success. Can you please specify the make and model number? Thank you sir.
Hi Duade. Great video, I always end up with a big grin watching them. That's another stunning location, the mist did create some nice mood. So big question would you switch to Nikon? Len's choice alone is simply fantastic. Decent choice across the range and affordable. Shame you did not get the Z8. Be good to hear a comparison across the three big zooms from Nikon, Sony and Canon. Keep up the good work.
Thanks mate, yes, Nikon have some very nice lenses for sure, I would personally love to try the 800 6.3 and Z8, that would be a nice combo. If I am honest, I prefer the Canon AF and ergonomics at this stage but likely because I am used to it. I am also very hopeful the R1 and R5II will be another step up next year. Cheers, Duade
This was fun to watch :) The 180-600 is definitely on my list of lenses I plan to upgrade to. I'm happy with my 200-500, so maybe in a few years when it's come down in price 😁
Question is this "Should I buy new photography gear or visit Australia"? you are so lucky to have so many species around you, don't no how you could be disappointed with any of it, I live in the UK and the bird species from when I was a young lad (50 years+ ago) has dropped so dramatically but I suppose have to work with what you have. Really enjoy the out and about you do, much more interesting than gear reviews. Thankyou. Russ.
I always enjoy your videos no matter what camera you’re using. I love learning about all cameras. I’ve had the Z9 for a year and a half. It took me two months to kinda figure it out. You asked for advice on tracking BIF. My advice is to set up the shutter half press to 3D tracking. Set the AF button on the back of the camera to either wide area small or wide area large. Try picking up the bird with your wide area AF mode then transfer to 3D. This should get you started. I hope that helps. Keep up the good work.
Yeah since you mentioned the weight perhaps I should get the Z8 reduce the combined weight a little, I used to find it a chore lugging a 1d series Canon around for years. I've been debating Z9-8 was originally convinced on the Z8 but the extra firmware update adding auto capture on Z9 and then Nikon's silence made me think back to Z9. Great channel I love your natural fun approach to testing. What a beautiful lovely location.
@@daleroyal6449 yes thats an excellent feature pre-capture but the Z9 has an extra auto-capture that auto triggers on detection of a bird or anything else you configure it for like a trail camera but obviously way better.
Thanks for another great video Duade. You’ve managed some excellent results with the Z9 & 180 - 600 even after a very short time to get to grips with the Z9, Look forward to your review and comparisons after you’ve had the kit a bit longer. Winton Wetlands is great and beautiful but it’s good to see you visiting a different location at Lake Tutchewop. We went that way during our Australia trip earlier this year, on our way from Ballarat up to Lake Mungo. I don’t know how well you know that area but if you are around there again the Ibis Rookery at Middle Reedy Lake (about 20K towards Kerang from Lake Tutchewop), and Yanga Lake at Yanga Homestead, just outside Balranald (about 115K North from Lake Tutchewop) are both worth visiting/investigating. Thanks again. John PS: All the credit for knowing and taking us to these locations must go to our expert birding friends from the Ballarat area, Ian and Amanda - we would have had no idea without them!
Thanks for the tip John, I did stop at the Rookery but no IBIS so I suspect its a certain time of year. I will have to try Yanga Lake at some stage in the future. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Hi Duade. Yes guess so ref time of year. It was mid March (well 16th for Ibis Rookery and 17th for Yanga) when we were there. There really were a lot of Ibis, on the ground/in trees and in the air, quite spectacular. Yanga Lake was just stunning with Yanga Homestead on a peninsula sticking out into the lake and feeling like it was almost completely surrounded by water.
Pelicans at 11:00 - outstanding. I have the Z8 and it’s just a great camera, lighter I think than the Z9 and pairs beautifully with my 500mm 5.6 pf lens and the FTZ converter. I’m seriously thinking about getting the new 800mm Z mount. Focus is a little more complex than my OM1; I generally use a custom wide box with animal detect for BBF and have the lens fn button programmed for 3D + AF. So I can switch off between BBF and lens button focus at will. Plus the front button programmed to a custom smallest box (effectively, single point) + animal detect + AF for when a bird is in cover. Keep up the great work and showcasing different brands.
Hi, have you been worried at all about any of the bad press on the z8 and recalls? only asking as I need to upgrade and was looking at the D850 or the Z8 but I got twitchy after the bad press.
@@galesaunders4120 the two issues, the faulty lens mount and loose strap lug, weren’t on my camera. My Z8 was one of the cameras identified in their recall for the lens mount but I haven’t yet sent it in to be checked because it’s working fine and I’m using the camera constantly on our summer holiday with our grandkids. From what I’ve heard the lens mount fix is really easy - if the camera even has the problem - and Nikon has been shipping and repairing the camera within a few days, all at their cost. As with everything on the internet, I think a few people tend to blow things out of proportion. It’s a terrific camera and I would buy it again without hesitation. FYI I also have the D850 and a Z6ii. The D850 is an outstanding camera but the Z8 is the newer generation technology and it’s better. My D850 sits on the shelf. My only criticism, and it’s a small one, is I wish it had a bigger battery; it drains faster than my other cameras when I’m using it for birds and wildlife shooting. I simply carry a spare but so far haven’t had to use it.
While I have no interest in Nikon lenses, I did gain a really important tidbit from this video. You described a shot of a Falcon as 'almost full frame'. I saw less than half a frame remaining. I feel guilty when I crop even as much as is necessary to make a vertical out of a horizontal. When our images are only to be shown online and we have a large number of pixels to start, cropping is perhaps better than other options.
G'day Doug, yes, no issue with cropping whatsoever, I generally try to be 4000 pixels on the longest end if I can but often have cropped tighter. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade, i have wide area set up on the shutter for a half press and 3d tracking on the back button.. Let's you capture the image easier and then track with 3d.
Great video as usual, I just have a question. If you have to crop the images a lot in post-processing, why don't you use the crop mode in the camera instead of 1.4x TC? I think the image quality will be much better.
For me the main downside to cropping in camera is you limit your ability to adjust your crop in post. That said, crop mode can help with af accuracy and produces smaller files. I generally don’t use it out of fear that I will forget to switch back to fx mode!
G'day, when you use DX mode it is simply cropping the full frame image in camera, my understanding is it makes no difference to the IQ as it's the same image, simply cropped. You also run the risk of clipping a wing or missing habitat that you would get in the FF image. With a 1.4 converter you are increasing the actual focal length from 600mm to 840mm meaning the subject will be bigger before you crop. When we use DX mode on the Z9 we end up with a 19mp file, with the 1.4 converter we have 45mp as we have not cropped the image. I will concede that the lens without the converter is faster at 6.3 and often slightly sharper so it's a balance of when to use the converter. Ideally using the lens without the converter will produce the best files as long as you can get close to the subject. Cheers, Duade
As usual, I think your assessments are spot on. I've been shooting the Z9 for as long as it's been released. I don't own the 180-600mm. With respect to the Auto-focus area modes: It's a bit tricky - which, along with weight and grip depth (a little too much for my comfort) are the only things I wish were better. I've tried 3D in many scenarios. I agree, it's not sticky enough for most prime time use.(and that includes people and animals). If your subject is close, and moving, but not moving a lot or very quickly, it is pretty helpful. However, at a distance or with fast movement, my experience is it doesn't stay on the subject well enough. It also is best used on distant moving subjects if AF lock is first acquired in a camera determine Area-focus mode like Wide Area (small, large, custom) and then handed off to user defined 3D. When shooting ice hockey, I find that a custom area thin tall box works best to keep the focus on a specific players eye. With ducks taking off in water the opposite is true - a long horizontal short vertical box - may work best. It narrows the AF search. For a single BIF - unobstructed at a distance a wide custom box works best for me. I have buttons customized so I can switch the area modes and size of the custom areas quickly, but it still is an extra step. Video - needs no explanation. Superb for what it is. Glad you had a chance to shoot with that setup. I believe your assessment is very accurate.
Really.... Hahahaha > beautiful pics and, as per usual, a very nice talking explanation< I'm bedridden, with 32° in the room and a nice 38° temp, something flu-like got me !!! The Ac stopped, no reason given, and I'm waiting for it to refresh the home again. it will take 1hour to a normal 24° level. I'm dreaming to be on your side, even accepting being upside-down ( from the middle of the French-Italian Alps ) PS: I shoot Z30+150600C&TC and also a side 6" monitor... I just imagine... what the weight is to do it with a Z9 !!
What wonderful serendipity to be at the lake in the fog and then have the filtered sunlight shining through the fog as the swans approached! Got to love Mother Nature! I loved the Brown falcon and hovering kite! I pre-ordered this lens and I am eagerly awaiting its arrival! From your experience in the field, how does the sharpness of this combination of the Nikon Z9 with the 180 to 600 mm zoom lens compare to the Canon R5 equipped with the 100 to 500 mm lens?
Nice video with great shots :) Using Wide-Custom Area to find the eye and then engage 3D tracking to track it over the field works good for me on my Z8.
Thank you for the Review. You are the only RUclipsr I trust for reviews on new gear. I just got the Nikon AFS 200 to 500mm F5.6 E VR for use for Wildlife and birds with my new D850. I saving for a 2nd hand 400mm F2.8 but that will take time. The lens is good in the middle but soft at the corners and will not perform well with Tele converters..
Just starting out in wildlife photography and was thinking of getting this lens. However, I have the Z7 and can’t afford to upgrade. Autofocus leaves a lot to be desired.
What's your thoughts on shutter speed for hovering Kites and Kestrels etc. I like to have motion blur in the wings. Just as long as I got the eye tack sharp. I tend to roll shutted speed back n forth hoping for a good frame. I get the odd good frame. :)
Thanks Rob, I will be honest that I am often focused on trying to get it sharp that I had not considered that creative element and I thank you for the suggestion. I will try that next time I get the opportunity. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade You're welcome. Aint it so helpful that these birds have IBS too. I wonder how many stops theirs is equal to. Hey I got word my Z9 will be out of digital hospital next week. The Z5 has been a good stop gap but.......
Hi Duade, I‘m watshing your videos for over a year now (I‘m form Germany so my English isn‘t that good) and I realy enyoing it watshing them but there is one lens were I would love to see in your Video and thats the Canon EF 300mm f4 so maby you can make a review of that lens it would be grate (sorry for my english 😅)
Hey Duade, I didn‘t expectet an reply so thats prety cool saddly you dont have access to it but I can also watsh some other reviews to get a bit more information about it. At least you textet me back I can‘t belive it 😅!! Yes, you can‘t mack a review but I will defnetly watsh all your next videos! And one last question, so you know a bit about the lens and from these infos would you reconment it in 2023? On an Mirroles camera. I‘m sorry if there are some grammatic mistakes. Keep going!!!
Hey thats amazing maybe a miss onderstood somthing?! Thanks allot I allways learn somthing in your Videos and maybe I‘ll buy it I‘ll defnetly watsh that review!!! Keep going!
@@petrinadelivani1076 Sorry, I got myself confused, the review is for the Nikon lens. The Canon EF300 f4 IS is a good lens, I have not used it on mirrorless but it should work with an adapter. It might not get the full FPS as older lenses have an FPS reduction but my old 400 5.6L works on mirrorless fine. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade i use AFC Wide area large with subject tracking on z8, I find it better than 3D in those situations😉and also flick between fx and dx mode saving on a tc
Hey Duade, its just great fun to watch your videos! If Canon could build such a lens for the same price. As an occasional bird photographer, thats all I would need. I own an R5 and a really good RF 100-500, but but this Nikon is a bit faster, even @600 mm and has a more than 1000 EUR lower pricepoint. If its nearly as good as the Canon, its an exceptional move from Nikon.
Most of the time, I use the Wide-area L to follow a flying bird and Wide-are S for perching birds. Once in a while, I use the Wide-are C1 or C2 to customize the size of the box. I had some hard time with 3D tracking. Z9 AF algorithm has some limitations as noted in the on-line Reference Guide. Now, I feel very comfortable with the Wide-area L and my keep rate is also very high. I heard few photographers claimed that the 3D Tracking works well for them as they track a bird from perching to take off and after that. Hopefully, Nikon will release new firmware version for AF improvements. I may get 180-600mm near the end of this year. Thank you so much for sharing.
Thanks Duade for your continued non-biased takes on all cameras. I have a R5 now and what was wondering what shutter do you use most of the time? Electronic? I saw one of your videos saying you want to hear the shutter so you don't use electronic. Thanks again for your videos!
Got rid of my r7 because I'm tired of waiting on the canon side. Nikon is embracing 3rd party, and it will benefit them in the future, plus they are making awesome lenses that don't break the bank.
The non mechanical shutter sucks in bright sunny days and low light. Poor dynamic range when compared to mechanical shutter cameras. Can’t wait for the Sony a7iv + 200-600mm vs z9 180-600mm for IQ 😊.
I wish I would have known before I got too invested in Canon. Personally would have went with Sony in hindsight. I love my Canon stuff (R7, RP and originally had a T7) but you get way more for your money in other brands.
@@Beaver-be8vkSo true lol canon lost me when they said no to 3rd party as well as not making any middle of the road lenses like this or even a 1.4 prime. If they're are gonna snub 3rd party support atleast release more lenses to fill the gaps. It's either super expensive or ultra budget lenses no in-between.
@@lewcehjitl3282I'll be getting a z6ii since I found them on mpb for a really good price. I used to have that 200-600 and it's truly amazing but I love way the nikon files look and these new lenses are looking good. Sony and nikon people are moving forward with cool lenses and canon is stuck on body's body's body's 😂.
@@lewcehjitl3282this doesn’t actually seem to be true. I hear quite a few people bringing this up, but it’s just not proving accurate. I shot with an R5 for two years and now shoot with the Z8. Do a lot of my shooting during mid day backing (bright, huge dynamic range). The Z8 has shown no downside whatsoever. Files have all around been as good or better than the canon sun every situation I’ve tested (especially in low light)
i love the inclusion of the RAW image and then the cropped final version. It helps when you looking at your own photo's when you get home you have to look beyond the RAW image to see the potential in the shot.
There are many aspects of your channel I enjoy, but I particularly appreciate the way you display the photos, showing us both the final image and the original RAW file. Do you have a video showing the process from when you get back home and are sat at your computer. I ask, being someone who currently shoots JPEGs but can see clearly how the images are enhanced through the post-production process.
Fabulous channel, thank you.
There is a registered "lesson" he did in public ... you can find it in his channel... around 1 year ago if memory helps
Shoot RAW and be able toedit properly
Yeah I would really really urge you to shoot raw, or raw + jpeg.
Love watching your videos. You are a gifted presenter. I love how you show raw files and crops. Thank you for all your efforts.
You are so welcome!
Thanks!
Thanks for the support I really appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Great vlog Duade. Unless you spent time outside with a camera you do not realise how special it is when wildlife and light come together.
Very true!
Well said1
Thank you, great as always to accompany you on your field trips. Love what you did to the floating Pelicans in black and white in post, great picture🙌
Thanks, that was a tough one as the fog really plays havoc with detail and IQ so going B&W was one way to help with that. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for sharing Duade, nice to see you having fun with the Z9 and the new lens. Have a Z9 myself and pre-orderderd the 180-600mm, so looking forward using this combo. For the autofocus, I use the fn1,2 and 3 buttons at the front of the camera to switch between modes. Have this set tot Area Wide, 3D and single point. My fingers are now used to switch between these modes when i have to. Easy to use now. RUclipsr Trond Westby has a video about his settings on the Z9, and got this from him. Been using it ever since. Again, thank you for sharing Duade, always happy to see one of your new videos online. And looking forward for the next one. Cheers!
G,Day, Great Vid, really nice to see another make and lens used and your initial impressions. I'm envious about the locations and colourful birds you manage to find. ( being from the UK it didn't look as cold as you said though, although I know a blue sky doesn't mean its warm).
Thanks Harry, yes we are very lucky, it was around 3 degrees so not freezing but cold enough :-) Cheers, Duade
I really enjoy seeing the different brands (and your enthusiasm).
After a long hiatus (using Nikon and Minolta, back in the manual focus, film and a light meter days) I picked the hobby back up a few years ago with the introduction of the R5 and it's just amazing how far all these cameras have come. Coming back from a couple days with literally hundreds maybe thousands of sharp well exposed images, well it still amazes me. So glad to have those early experiences to compare and help me appreciate these amazing cameras.
Thanks Dan, yes, I think we take it for granted, I am old enough to remember sending off the film to be developed and waiting a week for it to come back. But having to develop your own film etc must have been some process, to compare taking thousands of shots now and instantly viewing them must seem like magic. Cheers, Duade
A fresh new person that doesn't think he knows it all. And his way is the only way hes just out there. Having nice, good fun and just his point of view, that's all. That's a good way I like it. Keep it up, man.
Early in your vid and you made me smile when you mentioned success on the road. This is a favorite part of my photography cos it works. Cruising along on a multi hour drive to a location enjoying the music and hey there's a bird on a stick or a post or a fence wire. Take the time to nonchalantly turn about and approach said bird and start snapping at a distance and gradually decreasing distance till feathered fluffy f^&ks off. LOL. And the gorgeous Brown Falcon is one of many species I have my favorite shots of in this way. In fact my only BF shots are through the window of my car.
Thanks mate, yes, me too, I have many shots this way. The BF was a surprise as it literally did not care I was there which is unusual and what we hope for. Now I just have my fingers crossed that one day a Black Falcon will be so accommodating. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade I recall one road encounter just two weeks ago. I took a friend for a drive along one of my favorite roads. It's a narrow dirt road and she's a native plant fan as I am. I pulled up beside an Acacia for her to ID and she looks past me out my window and asked "what bird is that?" I turned and looked at a BF not more than 4m from me on top of a small shrub. It probably said "Hi Rob" cos I often see them along that road. I just sat and enjoyed it. No point lifting the camera cos it would just go. And the 800mm has MFD of 5m anyway. No shot but just as wonderful to have such a close encounter with a pretty little bird.
@@robguyatt9602 What a nice experience, the wattles are starting to colour up around here at the moment. I have the threatened Acacia triptera on my property which I am proud of. The birds love it. Have fun with the Z9 when it returns, Cheers, Duade
Amazing photos, it makes me want to leave work and go shoot photos every time.
Duade!
You taking us to a new location is a treat, ofc. This one won't be on our itinerary, sadly, we won't have the time to explore Victoria that far NW. So, in this case I enjoy seeing something you explore for me/us, so we get to see it second-hand. Loved that Red-rumped photo! Also: did you diss the Musk Ducks at 10:21-10:28 in favor for the Pelicans? Such a scandal! (🤭) I liked the resulting photo, though. Personally I prefer the fogg-muted pastel colours to the black-and-white version, but, that's me. I know you're spreading your wings in more diverse directions, now. I did however spot a few gorgeous "Bird on a stick" photos here, ha ha! Like that Brown Falcon, Black-winged Kite AND the Red-rumped Parrots. The Singing Honeyeaters on the salt bushes were a treat as well.Oh, and the perched Wedgie was a bonus, I think.
Thanks Pia, nice pickup on the Musk Ducks, such weird looking birds, I still need good photos of that species. Yes, nothing wrong with a good bird on a stick shot. Yep, the Wedgie was great to see, such big birds that you will see gliding around in the sky. Cheers, Duade
Love those moments where you start talking, and then spot something. They really do bring a smile. Good to see a bit of a road trip experience. You'll be encouraged to know Duade that your videos around bird photography have meant that I was able to be aware of some things as I played with some sea gulls today. I'm in an online group that has monthly challenges with live feedback sessions, and this month is birds. I'm no bird photographer, but having seen many of your videos, gave me a little confidence to have a go. I came home with some images I'm pleased with, and learnt some things as well. Sea gulls seemed a good easy picking to work with. Was great to just simply watch their behaviour too. So thank you!!
Lovely, lovely video. The locations were beautiful with the tracks winding through. The hovering black-shouldered kite, moody fog shots, so many special, gorgeous photos.
Thank you so much Duade, for sharing with us all the time, effort, discomfort, and your joy. You are one super-talented man.
(Hi Joan)
G'day Pia. Big hug from the west coast.
G'day Joan, just wanted to say a big thank you for your support, I really do appreciate it, feel free to email me at duade.paton@gmail.com should you have any questions or want one of my images to print. Thanks again, Duade
Do love your vids. Only recently got into photography and heading over to Victoria in feb from the uk. Would love any info on must visit places for wildlife photography whilst I’m there. Keep up the good work.
G'day, again my apologies for not responding, I hope your trip went well. Cheers, Duade
Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always Duade, every time I see your videos I feel like im in school and I learned so much so much from you that I am proud to say that you are my mentor, keep up with the awesome content 👌👍🐦
Great to hear mate and I am glad you are enjoying the videos, it is always fun to get out into the field. Cheers, Duade
What a fantastic and beautiful video !
Such amazing and epic photos !
I enjoyed watching the video a lot !!
Thank you very much!
I like how we see real world examples instead of talking head theorizing and specs review. Just showing the results. Well done.
Great video, always enjoy your field trips, I think you’ve got the balance between showing us the gear options and the field trips just right. As a life long Canon shooter I’m starting to think I might switch to Nikon because of the Lenses they are offering. Regards Chris
Some cracking images, Duade.
Great video mate. That lens looks like a extremly good value for the money. Long time waiting for the sun to come up, but when it finally did come, the results did come too. Loved the photo of those Australian Pelicans on the water. Amazing birds.
Wish you a great weekend.
Cheers Bjoern
"When it's your day, it's your day." That could be my new t-shirt 😁
Love that....just walk along and see a kangaroo as you do :) , another amazing video, always a pleasure to watch and take inspiration from
Thanks Gale, yes, that was a surprise at the end and a real bonus. Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duade. I have the lens on order. My Z9 is set up with the AF -ON button on "Wide area" and the FN 1 and FN3 are 3D Tracking (so whether shooting horizontal or verticle the front button 3D tracking is in the same place relative to my middle finger). The set up works well for me. I have grown to absolutely love the Z9. It is an amazing instrument, and the firmware upgrades have been better than I was hoping. Somehow, I have used the Z9 so much the weight feels "right" and the AF does the trick most of the time. I've learned that shooting with a "quiet" background gives the AF its very best chance to grab and hold moving subjects. Over the past year, the 9 and I have learned to get on nicely (and my skill at assisting with manual focus has improved. :)
I am really enjoying your winter outings Duade and especially those fog/misty mornings that offer you so much opportunity for creativity then clear to beautiful golden winter light. Just an observation but surely Australia is the lucky country for diversity of birding where you never seem to travel far without encountering our feathered friends! The lens looks similar in size/weight to the Tamron equivalent we both own. Shame Canon were not able to price their RF 100-500mm super zoom lens in a similar manner to Nikon. Many highlights for me in such diverse winter light including your selective use of B&W, inquisitive Singing Honeyeaters almost checking you out, misty Pelicans including graceful inflight shot, stunning Black Swan silhouette in golden winter light, a beauty Black Cormorant inflight and that sparkling backlit Eastern Grey. So much to enjoy with diverse winter light Duade! Thanks as always for your efforts mate.
Thanks Mike, I appreciate the feedback and happy to hear you enjoyed the outing, yes, we are very lucky to have the diversity in birdlife we have. On reflection it was a successful trip. Cheers, Duade
Nice work, unbiased video. Like the way you show the final image followed by the raw file.
Keep up the good work!
Thanks, will do!
great stuff, loved the black-shouldered kite
I have been using the Nikon Z9 for over a year now, initially with the Z 100 - 400 zoom. After a really long wait, I finally got the Z 800 mm f/6.3 prime in June. I have been amazed at the image stabilization with this combination. I have photographed perched Great Gray Owls at 1/160 of a second, hand held with no camera support and recorded very sharp images. I recently added a Z8 to my kit, and have been using it when I have to walk long distances to photograph birds. I am assuming you have the latest firmware 4.0 for the Z9. Each firmware update has improved the animal eye tracking. For birds in flight, I have the AF-On button in Wide Area Large with focus acquisition. I start with that and once focus is acquired, I press the Function 1 button with my middle finger to switch to 3D tracking with focus acquisition. The Function 2 button is programmed for Single point with focus acquisition. I often that for focusing on perched birds.
Thanks for sharing your experience and thoughts Scott, I appreciate it, congrats on the 800 6.3, a good friend of mine went into the jungles of Indonesia with that lens and everyone on the trip was blown away by the shots he was getting handheld. I have also experienced the incredible IBIS/VR and I am very impressed. Cheers, Duade
Thanks for the wonderful video. You got a new car mate, congrats
Great video, Duade. I recently went mirrorless with a Z8 and have the 180-600 on pre-order. May I ask your thoughts on the performance of the 1.4TC? Perhaps include this in any follow-on reviews?
Really enjoy your vids, please keep up the good work.
Great video and fabulous images. Picking up my Z8 on Saturday. . . really looking forward to it.
Have fun!
Nice to see someone have a great day afield! Still waiting on mine 😢. I’m not very patient and I’m learning that is a big part of wildlife photography, especially birds. You have helped me a great deal.
Thanks, yes, patience is the key and finding the right locations. You will love this lens, for its price its fantastic. Cheers, Duade
Excellent thanks Duade more please
Great video, as usual. Funny how getting out, having patience and persistence improves your chances of getting good shots! I hope you continue to make these great videos.
Thanks mate, it was a fun outing that is for sure, glad you enjoyed it. Cheers, Duade
Great Video, thank you so much for taking us with you!
Would you say now is a good time to pick up the older Nikon glass 200-500? Would love to pair it with my D500 :)
Back focus Wide Area C1 and swap with fn1 on 3D both with animal detection... Sometimes I use the fn3 for Auto area...
I have wide area autofocus set on the shutter button and 3-D tracking on the AF-On button. For flying birds I acquire focus with the wide area and then hand off to 3-D tracking. Wide area will get the bird in focus faster, but you can lose it if it flies out of the box. 3-D tracking is slower to get on the bird, but is very sticky anywhere in the frame once you've got him. If 3-D loses the bird you have wide area to get back on him. I also have spot focus on a function button for stationary birds (small or in the distance) that the camera refuses to recognize, which has been my biggest problem with Nikon autofocus.
Very tempting, but the weight of the Z9 plus this lens is a bit much to hand-hold. Z8 would be a pound lighter but still heavy. Will be interesting to see if you can get the tracking better with birds in flight. I think I will stay with Canon and buy the R5 II when it comes out.
Thanks, yes, the weight is a factor for sure, like you say the Z8 is lighter and I am hoping Nikon release a D500 Mirrorless which will be even lighter to help. I too am waiting on the R5II, I suspect it is going to be incredible. Cheers, Duade
Yeah, 3D tracking with the Z9 can be a bit annoying with certain backgrounds (I'd say almost all 😬), but especially with birds and reflecting water surfaces.
I don't use it very often, because I can't rely on it. However, when I use it, I use the backbutton to activate it (I'm a shutter release-AF guy).
I think most Nikon shooters are using wide area AF with eye detection as their default and then use the FN buttons to swap to 3D or point AF or whatever, when needed.
I just got my Nikon 180-600mm lens and it takes great pictures. I use the Nikon Z50 camera and I shoot only JPEG medium. My combination was worth the money. Great video. ❤❤❤
I love these sorts of videos, and you couldn't have asked for a better variety of conditions and situations to try out the Nikon combo. You definitely took plenty of great shots. Hopefully Canon will bring out something similar with 600mm or more zoom range. Thanks Duade, I really enjoyed this one 👌.
Hey mate! I got you on instagram, good to see you over here 🙂
@KurtisPape nice Kurtis, great to see you here too. Duade is the guru in my eyes. I'd be terrible at bird photography if it wasn't for Duane's videos.
Great to hear, glad you enjoyed it, yes, maybe Tamron or Sigma will be given access to RF soon. Cheers, Duade
you sure have some great birds to shoot. great vid.
As a photographer from North Dakota (where it gets very cold in the winter), one of the things that never gets mentioned is it's capacity to operate extremely well in cold temps, even below zero temps on the Fahrenheit scale. When I first got my Z9 I went down to take pics of the holiday train and ran into a pro photographer that could not get his Canon to work in the below zero temps, meanwhile to my joy my Nikon worked flawlessly.
Thank you again for this informative video.👍
Am I going to buy this lens - no.
Is this review helps my buying decision - no.
Still I watch this because I love the way you talk and the clicks...
I've set the Z9 to Wide Area tracking (or W-C1) and key the Fn1 button to 3D tracking override. The Fn3 button can also be keyed to 3D tracking override when shooting vertical with W-C2.
I greatly appreciate your practical user reviews, as it helps me make my own purchase decisions. I particularly appreciate your observations regarding "focus breathing," when lenses change focal length as the subject distance changes. As much as I want the greatest possible reach for my birding lenses, I also want the ability to take an opportunistic shot of a butterfly from several feet away. Lenses are typically within 5% of the marked focal length - at infinity. But as you noted many sacrifice their reach for close focus, which is not documented in the manufacturer's specs. Please keep these observations in your reviews as they are most useful!
Great video and some lovely shots. Today I got notified, that at least here in Europe, there still is no expected shipping date. :(
Hope to see some questions from your community post answered in a future video. Focus breathing and image quality with the 1.4 TC is particularly interesting to me.
Nice to see some Nikon here....
Loving the presentation of your images with the edit including EXIF then the raw and then the crop. Really unique method and so useful. As a Nikon shooter it will be interesting to see the lens comparisons you are planning. Subscribed!
Hello Duade! It would be awesome if you make video for black and white photography or tips on the subject 🐦👍😁
Thanks mate, I don't do a lot to be honest and I am learning myself, I think black and white birds helps or in certain situations where the light is not quite right. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for another great video, easy to watch and very enjoyable thanks to your relaxed presenting style. I only have a Nikon Z6 but am seriously considering this lens due to its good pricing. Thanks again.
Glad you like them!
wonderful video.. What multi purpose rail are you using? Thank you!
Actually, that foggy “bad” light gave you quite the photo of the pelicans!😊 Great video, as all of yours are.
Yes! Thank you!
Interesting to see your images from this lens. The kangaroo and the black shouldered kite were my favourites. That is a weighty kit, bit heavy for me so will stick with Z7II & the older f mount 200-500 though nearly 3kg using the ftz adaptor.
Hey Duade, nice journey searching for birds and the passion of anticipating what might come your way. Still it's good to see also with pro birders like you the birds are not lined up in a queue waiting for their photos to be taken 😛
With the singing honeyeaters, you had the extra challenge due to this 'tourist' who parked his bright kingfisher-blue car in your line of sight ;-)
Thanks mate, yes, it is never easy, and all of us struggle at times to find and get the birds, Cheers, Duade
Great Video Duade
Great videos! And I saw the BYD atto3. I also have one of Chinese Edition.
Use auto area focus small or large. Assign one of the front function buttons to 3D. Get the bird/animal in the area focus mod. It will start to track then press the 3D button and it will follow the subject in most instances. As with anything in photos you will have to hone this skill
Great to see you trying Nikon gear! Even with a Z8 I’d want a monopod with any 600mm zoom ...
Duade you got some beautiful photos of those Honeycreepers were those male or female Birds .
As far as the Z-9 a good birding friend of mine just got one and he's had a lot of trouble with it with the 3D eye tracking he's still using it but he also still likes to use his D500 .
Happy Birding there Duade .
I bekieve Jan has made comprehensive video on AF settings with Z9
Thanks, I am using Jans Z9 settings, I guess I am just used to Canons AF so it takes a little getting used to. The main difference is with Canon you press Eye AF and it just works the majority of the time and then I have spot if it gets confused. With Nikon they have Wide Area with Tracking which appears to acquire focus/subject the best and then 3D tracking which tracks the best, So you have to switch AF often depending on the subject scenario which confuses my old brain. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Oh! That is unfortunate
Beautiful, sharp images sir! I have that lens on order, but cannot find an Arca-Swiss foot/collar for it yet. What did you use to mount it on your tripod? Thank you!
G'day Steve, I just used a plate, I'm sure a dedicated foot will come soon enough. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Hi Duade. Well, I searched for an Arca-Swiss plate for that lens, without success. Can you please specify the make and model number? Thank you sir.
Hi Duade. Great video, I always end up with a big grin watching them. That's another stunning location, the mist did create some nice mood.
So big question would you switch to Nikon? Len's choice alone is simply fantastic. Decent choice across the range and affordable. Shame you did not get the Z8. Be good to hear a comparison across the three big zooms from Nikon, Sony and Canon.
Keep up the good work.
Thanks mate, yes, Nikon have some very nice lenses for sure, I would personally love to try the 800 6.3 and Z8, that would be a nice combo. If I am honest, I prefer the Canon AF and ergonomics at this stage but likely because I am used to it. I am also very hopeful the R1 and R5II will be another step up next year. Cheers, Duade
This was fun to watch :)
The 180-600 is definitely on my list of lenses I plan to upgrade to. I'm happy with my 200-500, so maybe in a few years when it's come down in price 😁
Lens price won't come down or even be in sale 🥺🥺🥺
@@nallontrails I don't think so! My 200-500 started at a similar price as well and went down to around 1.300€. I bought mine on sale for 1.200€ :)
@@nallontrails So. Guess I was wrong, the price actually went up from 1999€ to 2249€ 🤣
Good thing I bought mine in April!
Question is this "Should I buy new photography gear or visit Australia"? you are so lucky to have so many species around you, don't no how you could be disappointed with any of it, I live in the UK and the bird species from when I was a young lad (50 years+ ago) has dropped so dramatically but I suppose have to work with what you have. Really enjoy the out and about you do, much more interesting than gear reviews. Thankyou. Russ.
I always enjoy your videos no matter what camera you’re using. I love learning about all cameras. I’ve had the Z9 for a year and a half. It took me two months to kinda figure it out. You asked for advice on tracking BIF. My advice is to set up the shutter half press to 3D tracking. Set the AF button on the back of the camera to either wide area small or wide area large. Try picking up the bird with your wide area AF mode then transfer to 3D. This should get you started. I hope that helps. Keep up the good work.
Yeah since you mentioned the weight perhaps I should get the Z8 reduce the combined weight a little, I used to find it a chore lugging a 1d series Canon around for years. I've been debating Z9-8 was originally convinced on the Z8 but the extra firmware update adding auto capture on Z9 and then Nikon's silence made me think back to Z9. Great channel I love your natural fun approach to testing. What a beautiful lovely location.
The Z8 has got pre capture ,i use it a lot and is a great asset
@@daleroyal6449 yes thats an excellent feature pre-capture but the Z9 has an extra auto-capture that auto triggers on detection of a bird or anything else you configure it for like a trail camera but obviously way better.
Thanks for another great video Duade. You’ve managed some excellent results with the Z9 & 180 - 600 even after a very short time to get to grips with the Z9, Look forward to your review and comparisons after you’ve had the kit a bit longer. Winton Wetlands is great and beautiful but it’s good to see you visiting a different location at Lake Tutchewop. We went that way during our Australia trip earlier this year, on our way from Ballarat up to Lake Mungo. I don’t know how well you know that area but if you are around there again the Ibis Rookery at Middle Reedy Lake (about 20K towards Kerang from Lake Tutchewop), and Yanga Lake at Yanga Homestead, just outside Balranald (about 115K North from Lake Tutchewop) are both worth visiting/investigating. Thanks again. John
PS: All the credit for knowing and taking us to these locations must go to our expert birding friends from the Ballarat area, Ian and Amanda - we would have had no idea without them!
Thanks for the tip John, I did stop at the Rookery but no IBIS so I suspect its a certain time of year. I will have to try Yanga Lake at some stage in the future. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Hi Duade. Yes guess so ref time of year. It was mid March (well 16th for Ibis Rookery and 17th for Yanga) when we were there. There really were a lot of Ibis, on the ground/in trees and in the air, quite spectacular. Yanga Lake was just stunning with Yanga Homestead on a peninsula sticking out into the lake and feeling like it was almost completely surrounded by water.
Thanks a lot ! Great video
Pelicans at 11:00 - outstanding.
I have the Z8 and it’s just a great camera, lighter I think than the Z9 and pairs beautifully with my 500mm 5.6 pf lens and the FTZ converter. I’m seriously thinking about getting the new 800mm Z mount.
Focus is a little more complex than my OM1; I generally use a custom wide box with animal detect for BBF and have the lens fn button programmed for 3D + AF. So I can switch off between BBF and lens button focus at will. Plus the front button programmed to a custom smallest box (effectively, single point) + animal detect + AF for when a bird is in cover.
Keep up the great work and showcasing different brands.
Hi, have you been worried at all about any of the bad press on the z8 and recalls? only asking as I need to upgrade and was looking at the D850 or the Z8 but I got twitchy after the bad press.
@@galesaunders4120 the two issues, the faulty lens mount and loose strap lug, weren’t on my camera. My Z8 was one of the cameras identified in their recall for the lens mount but I haven’t yet sent it in to be checked because it’s working fine and I’m using the camera constantly on our summer holiday with our grandkids.
From what I’ve heard the lens mount fix is really easy - if the camera even has the problem - and Nikon has been shipping and repairing the camera within a few days, all at their cost.
As with everything on the internet, I think a few people tend to blow things out of proportion.
It’s a terrific camera and I would buy it again without hesitation. FYI I also have the D850 and a Z6ii. The D850 is an outstanding camera but the Z8 is the newer generation technology and it’s better. My D850 sits on the shelf. My only criticism, and it’s a small one, is I wish it had a bigger battery; it drains faster than my other cameras when I’m using it for birds and wildlife shooting. I simply carry a spare but so far haven’t had to use it.
While I have no interest in Nikon lenses, I did gain a really important tidbit from this video. You described a shot of a Falcon as 'almost full frame'. I saw less than half a frame remaining. I feel guilty when I crop even as much as is necessary to make a vertical out of a horizontal. When our images are only to be shown online and we have a large number of pixels to start, cropping is perhaps better than other options.
G'day Doug, yes, no issue with cropping whatsoever, I generally try to be 4000 pixels on the longest end if I can but often have cropped tighter. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade, i have wide area set up on the shutter for a half press and 3d tracking on the back button.. Let's you capture the image easier and then track with 3d.
Struth, I had not realised there were so many lakes in Vic.
glad seeing Nikon playing catch up ..on prices
Great video as usual, I just have a question. If you have to crop the images a lot in post-processing, why don't you use the crop mode in the camera instead of 1.4x TC? I think the image quality will be much better.
my words :)
For me the main downside to cropping in camera is you limit your ability to adjust your crop in post. That said, crop mode can help with af accuracy and produces smaller files. I generally don’t use it out of fear that I will forget to switch back to fx mode!
G'day, when you use DX mode it is simply cropping the full frame image in camera, my understanding is it makes no difference to the IQ as it's the same image, simply cropped. You also run the risk of clipping a wing or missing habitat that you would get in the FF image. With a 1.4 converter you are increasing the actual focal length from 600mm to 840mm meaning the subject will be bigger before you crop.
When we use DX mode on the Z9 we end up with a 19mp file, with the 1.4 converter we have 45mp as we have not cropped the image. I will concede that the lens without the converter is faster at 6.3 and often slightly sharper so it's a balance of when to use the converter. Ideally using the lens without the converter will produce the best files as long as you can get close to the subject. Cheers, Duade
As usual, I think your assessments are spot on. I've been shooting the Z9 for as long as it's been released. I don't own the 180-600mm. With respect to the Auto-focus area modes: It's a bit tricky - which, along with weight and grip depth (a little too much for my comfort) are the only things I wish were better. I've tried 3D in many scenarios. I agree, it's not sticky enough for most prime time use.(and that includes people and animals). If your subject is close, and moving, but not moving a lot or very quickly, it is pretty helpful. However, at a distance or with fast movement, my experience is it doesn't stay on the subject well enough. It also is best used on distant moving subjects if AF lock is first acquired in a camera determine Area-focus mode like Wide Area (small, large, custom) and then handed off to user defined 3D. When shooting ice hockey, I find that a custom area thin tall box works best to keep the focus on a specific players eye. With ducks taking off in water the opposite is true - a long horizontal short vertical box - may work best. It narrows the AF search. For a single BIF - unobstructed at a distance a wide custom box works best for me. I have buttons customized so I can switch the area modes and size of the custom areas quickly, but it still is an extra step. Video - needs no explanation. Superb for what it is. Glad you had a chance to shoot with that setup. I believe your assessment is very accurate.
Great video thank you. What is the Arca Swiss plate you used ?
Which do you like using 1.4x or trimming with 180-600mm lens?
Really.... Hahahaha > beautiful pics and, as per usual, a very nice talking explanation<
I'm bedridden, with 32° in the room and a nice 38° temp, something flu-like got me !!!
The Ac stopped, no reason given, and I'm waiting for it to refresh the home again. it will take 1hour to a normal 24° level.
I'm dreaming to be on your side, even accepting being upside-down
( from the middle of the French-Italian Alps )
PS: I shoot Z30+150600C&TC and also a side 6" monitor... I just imagine... what the weight is to do it with a Z9 !!
What wonderful serendipity to be at the lake in the fog and then have the filtered sunlight shining through the fog as the swans approached! Got to love Mother Nature! I loved the Brown falcon and hovering kite! I pre-ordered this lens and I am eagerly awaiting its arrival! From your experience in the field, how does the sharpness of this combination of the Nikon Z9 with the 180 to 600 mm zoom lens compare to the Canon R5 equipped with the 100 to 500 mm lens?
Nice video with great shots :)
Using Wide-Custom Area to find the eye and then engage 3D tracking to track it over the field works good for me on my Z8.
Thank you for the Review. You are the only RUclipsr I trust for reviews on new gear. I just got the Nikon AFS 200 to 500mm F5.6 E VR for use for Wildlife and birds with my new D850. I saving for a 2nd hand 400mm F2.8 but that will take time. The lens is good in the middle but soft at the corners and will not perform well with Tele converters..
The results seem very similar to the combo of the A1 with the 200-600, maybe even a bit better
Just starting out in wildlife photography and was thinking of getting this lens. However, I have the Z7 and can’t afford to upgrade. Autofocus leaves a lot to be desired.
What's your thoughts on shutter speed for hovering Kites and Kestrels etc. I like to have motion blur in the wings. Just as long as I got the eye tack sharp. I tend to roll shutted speed back n forth hoping for a good frame. I get the odd good frame. :)
Thanks Rob, I will be honest that I am often focused on trying to get it sharp that I had not considered that creative element and I thank you for the suggestion. I will try that next time I get the opportunity. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade You're welcome. Aint it so helpful that these birds have IBS too. I wonder how many stops theirs is equal to. Hey I got word my Z9 will be out of digital hospital next week. The Z5 has been a good stop gap but.......
Same reach of my mzuiko 75-300mm but way bigger/expensive
I would really like to see how the lens works on the Z6ii.
Hi Duade,
I‘m watshing your videos for over a year now
(I‘m form Germany so my English isn‘t that good) and I realy enyoing it watshing them but there is one lens were I would love to see in your Video and thats the Canon EF 300mm f4 so maby you can make a review of that lens it would be grate (sorry for my english 😅)
G'day, yes, that is a good quality older lens that many people enjoy, I don't have access to that lens unfortunately. Cheers, Duade
Hey Duade, I didn‘t expectet an reply so thats prety cool saddly you dont have access to it but I can also watsh some other reviews to get a bit more information about it. At least you textet me back I can‘t belive it 😅!!
Yes, you can‘t mack a review but I will defnetly watsh all your next videos!
And one last question, so you know a bit about the lens and from these infos would you reconment it in 2023? On an Mirroles camera.
I‘m sorry if there are some grammatic mistakes.
Keep going!!!
@@petrinadelivani1076 G'day, working on the review now, hopefully be early next week. Cheers, Duade
Hey thats amazing maybe a miss onderstood somthing?!
Thanks allot I allways learn somthing in your Videos and maybe I‘ll buy it I‘ll defnetly watsh that review!!!
Keep going!
@@petrinadelivani1076 Sorry, I got myself confused, the review is for the Nikon lens. The Canon EF300 f4 IS is a good lens, I have not used it on mirrorless but it should work with an adapter. It might not get the full FPS as older lenses have an FPS reduction but my old 400 5.6L works on mirrorless fine. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade i use AFC Wide area large with subject tracking on z8, I find it better than 3D in those situations😉and also flick between fx and dx mode saving on a tc
unrelated to photography, have we seen the last of the MU-X? I love that car😅
If you review, then I'd be really curious about any degradation of quality that the teleconverter has on the prime optic. great pics as usual 🙂
Hey Duade, its just great fun to watch your videos!
If Canon could build such a lens for the same price. As an occasional bird photographer, thats all I would need. I own an R5 and a really good RF 100-500, but but this Nikon is a bit faster, even @600 mm and has a more than 1000 EUR lower pricepoint. If its nearly as good as the Canon, its an exceptional move from Nikon.
Most of the time, I use the Wide-area L to follow a flying bird and Wide-are S for perching birds. Once in a while, I use the Wide-are C1 or C2 to customize the size of the box. I had some hard time with 3D tracking. Z9 AF algorithm has some limitations as noted in the on-line Reference Guide. Now, I feel very comfortable with the Wide-area L and my keep rate is also very high. I heard few photographers claimed that the 3D Tracking works well for them as they track a bird from perching to take off and after that. Hopefully, Nikon will release new firmware version for AF improvements. I may get 180-600mm near the end of this year. Thank you so much for sharing.
Hi D which action camera would you recommend without breaking the bank 😀😀
12:14 👍🏼Generative Fill?
Yes, works well. Cheers, Duade 👍
Great video
Thanks Duade for your continued non-biased takes on all cameras. I have a R5 now and what was wondering what shutter do you use most of the time? Electronic? I saw one of your videos saying you want to hear the shutter so you don't use electronic. Thanks again for your videos!