Nice to hear it Carl…. My dedicated photography channel is called “John Lavin-Ford” if you are interested….. I’ve got 11 videos I am editing at the moment to eventually put up…. I was a Nikon sponsored photographer back in the late 80s early 90s…
Very nice review of the features, and good to see the comparison with the 70-200. As you've used both, do you think a pic taken at 500mm and cropped down so it appears to have been taken by a 600mm lens would look the same, worse, or even better, than either the Tamron or Sigma zoomed out to 600? I imagine you have not had a chance to do an actual comparison like that, but if you have any gut impressions I'd be keen to hear them. Thanks!
Hi thanks for the comment… I have a dedicated photography channel called “John Lavin-Ford” where I will be posting more very in-depth look at lenses techniques etc… So that might be a more apt channel fir you to sub to. Yes a crop factor looks very sharp still and is equivalent of 700mm I’ve tried it on my D2H D2x and 5100… I’ve used the Tamron and still prefer the Nikon even though it’s 100mm less on a full frame. The Nikon VR is much better. The Tamron is lovely but for me at least the Nikon has the slight edge… especially as the f5.6 does not change no matter how much you zoom. Sigma I have only attached to my camera and looked through it… (sport version).. but preferred the Tamron over the Sigma.
@@bearsadventures666 Thank you very much for the considered reply. I appreciate your thoughts, as I'm trying to decide between them at the moment. I'll check out your other channel - cheers!
@@dangerspouse4741you are most welcome….. I have 7 videos I am still editing to upload on the other channel… they are all quite long and out in the field.
A chronic problem with this lens after a year or so is barrel jams, so no more zoom and Nikon won’t fix it even though they know they built it wrong. Cost $500-700 to fix. This made me jump to Canon after being a Nikon user for 30 years.
On my D810, the 200-500 was sharp, and had very good VR. I managed to get several sharp shots at 1/15sec, hand held. On the D850, the 200-500 is sharper than my 70-200 2.8 FL, but actually no lens is actually sharp on that POS
awesome video im in process of choosing a wildlife lens for my newly aquired nikon z7 bur nit sure what to go for any suggestion i was originally looking at the 300mm prime lens but then got recommended 70-200 with 2x converter nad recentl got recommended this lens as well as thesigma 100-400 any suggestions will be greatly appreciated
Hi Alex thank you for taking the time to comment. You might be interested to see my "John Lavin-Ford Photography" channel as I am in the process of editing several videos (6) which included the 70-200 f2.8.. The 300mm f2.8 is a good lens and nice and quick at AF, actually it feels the same speed as the 200-500mm in the hand. Over priced (new) but reasonable price second hand. I use the 70-200 everyday as its so fast and versatile. They say the best combo of lens to have is 24-70... 70-200 and either a large prime or a large zoom like Nikon sigma or tamron.I agree with what the (experts say). I don't have as much time as I would like to photograph professionally as I used to but still have a tonne of kit. I love the 200-500 as its easier to carry around than my 400mm f2.8 and 600mm which is to be replaced soon as it was stolen. I mainly take pictures of sport and wildlife and found the 70-200 with either my 400mm or 200-500 a perfect combo with two bodies. The 300mm is nice....as I have used one for a few years but found the 100mm jump from 200 not that massive. Its a personal preference thing. Shop around for good second hand. I don't buy new anymore as literally no point.
@@bearsadventures666 hi thabnks for the info really appreciate u taking the time to reply thanks very much and if u use insta would u more kindly head over and take a look let me know what u think of wildlife especially and if any tips can provide to maybe improve it thanks as i mentioned i have used a bridge camera since starting photography but limits in certain aspects of my photography for wildlife too so thats why looked at mirrorless and due to my amateur photography magazine online feature nikon seen it and impressed offered me a well discounted kit of my choice so got the nikon z7 with the 24-200 lens but looking for wildlife and as say if had budget would get the 500mm f5.6 a few people recommended i get the 300mm f4 with 1.4x converter but now thinking maybe zoom so have been recently recommended the nikon 200-500 and sigma 100-400 but thinking maybe either 300mm prime or the zoom only until they release the 100-400 or 200-600 nikon z lens which is on the roadmap but thank u again and will defo take a lok
@@bearsadventures666 what camera bodies do u use dslr or mirrorless i use nikon z7 r u thinking of selling one of the lenses and because if the weight is it possible to handhold the 200-500
Hi Alex, no problem. I really hope I can be of help here, but ultimately you need to look at affordability vs practicality and application of need to the subject you wish to photograph. I know nothing about the Sigma 100-400....If you buy smart, a second hand 500 F4 I have seen for the same price as a 200 to 500 brand new ie. £1200... the better ones are roughly 2k....Nikkor 300mm f2.8 is awesome for the same money(second hand). You need to ask yourself what you need most.. Do you need flexibility? or are you a good range finder and don't mind using a limited prime lens. I really ought to get my act together and put up some more test VLOGS as I think that may help. My 400mm f2.8 was second hand and I love it to bits... bit its heavy and large. The 200-500 is smaller when compacted, lighter and has better VR(just). It also has a longer reach. I know it's f5.6 but honestly the results are fantastic. If you look around the edges whilst pixel peeping you will notice its not as sharp around the edges(printed I have never noticed on A2). Nikon 200 to 600 sounds fantastic and will directly compete with Tamrons offering. I am old hat compared to you with mirrorless as I still use DSLR...but I do have a Lumix G5 which is great. The nikon Z series are fantastic Alex and you did well to get one. I, before certain factors in my life changed and Covid, used to travel around the world photographing dogs to elephants to kangaroos. I used to live in Australia but now reside in the UK. My perfect wife is Australian. Please take a look at my dedicated Photography channel "John Lavin-Ford Photography" as I will soon be putting more in-depth reviews and photo adventures on it and hopefully address some of your questions.
@@bearsadventures666 hi thanks for the info really appreciate it at moment as i mentioned i only have the 24-200 but looking at a wildlife lens but also a macro lens and maybe a wild angle i will have a look about thanks as say i was looking at the sigma 300mm 2.8 but a bit too heavy and a bit large too as want something which as well use tripod but also maybe a monopod but to also be able to handhold it thanks for the infor as say was ooking at 300mm prime with teleconverter but then a few people have said might struggle with a fixed focal so was then looking at 70-200 with 2x converter but then got recommended the 200-500, i know on nikon roadmap is a 100-400 and a 200-600 but what aperture unsure thanks for all the info will have a look at your channel and do u use instagram too
Hi James… That’s bad luck mate, I have heard of others on RUclips who have had the same issue. Luckily not me. I’ll be uploading a video on my photography channel Re correct focus and setting it up in the near future. Hopefully that might help you mate. My photography channel is “John Lavin-Ford” or click on the link I have in the “ABOUT” section of this channel. Thank you for the comment.
Hi, so sorry for the delayed reply… yes you can as its and F type mount… My dedicated photography channel is “John Lavin-Ford” many years ago i used to be sponsored by Nikon and I am staring to push my photography channel if you are interested.,. Thank you for the comment.
Hi James, to be quite honest mine feels how it should do…. I guess. I’ve not compared it to any others. If anything it’s a little stiff…. Nikon have obviously had some quality issues judging by what you are telling me. I promise I will make a full blown vlog with this lens in the field and express the concerns you have brought up.
@@pjimmbojimmbo1990 I can’t help but have to totally agree with you… Nikon do not try to keep loyal customers… Please sub to my dedicated photography channel as I am in the process of making 14 videos to upload where I also rant on about quality etc. the channel is “John Lavin-Ford”
Какой то скромный чехольчик у этого объектива в комплекте, защищающий его разве что от грязи! У моей Сигмы 150-500 в комплекте был хороший защищающий от ударов чехол.
Sorry to hear that… Nikon will fix or replace that lens if still in warranty . I’ve used mine in the snow and rain and still works fine. At least stuck wide open at 5.6 is the better of the two evils.. I only use it at 5.6 well 95% of the time.
Glad you are happy with yours. I was disappointed with mine. Too heavy and cumbersome for handholding for me. Only chance for good sharp photo's I found was a tripod every time so I have sold it now. It worked OK and my lens hood was fine too. Used with a z6ii so now waiting to see what z lens 500 options are coming and more importantly how much they cost. Completely agree with your comments re the sock. Cheapskating I call that.
Hi and thanks for taking the time to comment. It is a heavy lens, that’s for sure. I am so sorry it did not work out for you…… I maybe just lucky with mine as I have since seen other RUclipsrs having quality issues. Nikon really have to up their game level to keep with Canon and Sony.Nikon are asking top money for medium goods it seems lately. Z lens won’t be cheap, but hopefully it will be good. I like the new Z series cameras.
@@bearsadventures666 Thanks for reading my comment. I completely agree with you that Nikon need to up their game. In fact I would go so far as to say if this z9 is not better than Sony and Cannons latest then I think sadly it really is the end of Nikon as a major Camera force. I don't know how they have slid down so with such a smaller share of the market as well. I like some aspects of the Z6ii but I can see me selling that as well in the not too distant future as I class it really as 3/4 of a good camera.
Sorry it was too heavy for you. I'm 79 y o and ONLY hand hold this lens. I am very pleased with the results I've gotten with BIF, namely the White Bodied Erns and Bramini Kytes of Krabi. Maybe you were shooting to slow - 1/2500 sec is minimum for this lens and BIF . . . Also I use a shoulder strap and let it support the weight when I'm not shooting. No, they're not cheapskating. The sock is a money-saving option used to keep this lens at it's price point - which is incredible for a name brand telephoto of this reach and sharpness. My 80-400mm Nikkor came with a fine case; which I never use (btw, that's another fantastic lens that I highly recommend).
@@imoldgreggboosh3467 Glad you can manage with it Gregg. I aimed for 3000 for most of the shots I tried but it was a real weight to hold for more than a few seconds. Fine on a tripod but there its gone now. Hope the new owner gets on with it better than I did. I do still think it is cheap skating sorry. My Sigma 105 came in a solid padded zip up pouch which gives great protection for it. My Z mount 24-200 came with just a bit of thin cloth to wrap round it. Not what I would provide to show people how proud I was of my companys product.
@@imoldgreggboosh3467 … Thanks for the comment…. I agree, up the speed and use a level of support and it’s fine… I’ve not experienced low light issues with this men’s either. I agree, incredibly good value for money… I run my own business and understand about saving when you can, but I believe the sock is just a dust cover and an after thought as not even logo d up. Quality very poor. I have an after market padded case for it though at £40 and it’s brilliant… The lense hood could be improved to the quality of my 70-200 f2.8 and 400 f2.8… or at least have the option of upgrading to a Nikon version….. I still must definitely agree with you as it’s just brilliant…so in retrospect my complaint is not about the lens at all, just the add on stuff which is inconsequential to the actual lens lol. I would love the 80 to 400….. it must be amazing…. My 400 is an older version and heavy but I like it and paid just £1900 for it. I have a dedicated photography channel you might be interested in… John Lavin-Ford photography…. I am in the the process of editing some D2H and D3 video adventures.
I sale my bike and buy a Nikon D5600 with 18-55mm. I live in middle of forest and hills and rivers. Name of place Coochbehar west bengal India. near Garumara national park. Jayanti hills and many of forests. This is a place of birds animals fish. I'm very interested for photography and this is doing almost 20years and my only camera is my mobile. till I have camera but without lens. That's why I need 2 lens but I don't have money. After buying my camera I save only Rs 10k 😢
Thanks for the comment. Sounds like a beautiful place you live in. Cameras and especially lenses are very expensive. I have a dedicated photography channel called……… “John Lavin-Ford” … you might be interested in.
Love mine top lens
Nice to hear it Carl…. My dedicated photography channel is called “John Lavin-Ford” if you are interested….. I’ve got 11 videos I am editing at the moment to eventually put up…. I was a Nikon sponsored photographer back in the late 80s early 90s…
Great review. Many thanks! 😊
Very nice review of the features, and good to see the comparison with the 70-200. As you've used both, do you think a pic taken at 500mm and cropped down so it appears to have been taken by a 600mm lens would look the same, worse, or even better, than either the Tamron or Sigma zoomed out to 600? I imagine you have not had a chance to do an actual comparison like that, but if you have any gut impressions I'd be keen to hear them. Thanks!
Hi thanks for the comment… I have a dedicated photography channel called “John Lavin-Ford” where I will be posting more very in-depth look at lenses techniques etc… So that might be a more apt channel fir you to sub to.
Yes a crop factor looks very sharp still and is equivalent of 700mm I’ve tried it on my D2H D2x and 5100… I’ve used the Tamron and still prefer the Nikon even though it’s 100mm less on a full frame. The Nikon VR is much better.
The Tamron is lovely but for me at least the Nikon has the slight edge… especially as the f5.6 does not change no matter how much you zoom. Sigma I have only attached to my camera and looked through it… (sport version).. but preferred the Tamron over the Sigma.
@@bearsadventures666 Thank you very much for the considered reply. I appreciate your thoughts, as I'm trying to decide between them at the moment. I'll check out your other channel - cheers!
@@dangerspouse4741you are most welcome….. I have 7 videos I am still editing to upload on the other channel… they are all quite long and out in the field.
A chronic problem with this lens after a year or so is barrel jams, so no more zoom and Nikon won’t fix it even though they know they built it wrong. Cost $500-700 to fix. This made me jump to Canon after being a Nikon user for 30 years.
On my D810, the 200-500 was sharp, and had very good VR. I managed to get several sharp shots at 1/15sec, hand held. On the D850, the 200-500 is sharper than my 70-200 2.8 FL, but actually no lens is actually sharp on that POS
That’s so frustrating to hear about your d850 mate, sorry you had bad experience.
awesome video im in process of choosing a wildlife lens for my newly aquired nikon z7 bur nit sure what to go for any suggestion i was originally looking at the 300mm prime lens but then got recommended 70-200 with 2x converter nad recentl got recommended this lens as well as thesigma 100-400 any suggestions will be greatly appreciated
Hi Alex thank you for taking the time to comment.
You might be interested to see my "John Lavin-Ford Photography" channel as I am in the process of editing several videos (6) which included the 70-200 f2.8..
The 300mm f2.8 is a good lens and nice and quick at AF, actually it feels the same speed as the 200-500mm in the hand. Over priced (new) but reasonable price second hand.
I use the 70-200 everyday as its so fast and versatile. They say the best combo of lens to have is 24-70... 70-200 and either a large prime or a large zoom like Nikon sigma or tamron.I agree with what the (experts say).
I don't have as much time as I would like to photograph professionally as I used to but still have a tonne of kit.
I love the 200-500 as its easier to carry around than my 400mm f2.8 and 600mm which is to be replaced soon as it was stolen.
I mainly take pictures of sport and wildlife and found the 70-200 with either my 400mm or 200-500 a perfect combo with two bodies.
The 300mm is nice....as I have used one for a few years but found the 100mm jump from 200 not that massive. Its a personal preference thing.
Shop around for good second hand. I don't buy new anymore as literally no point.
@@bearsadventures666 hi thabnks for the info really appreciate u taking the time to reply thanks very much and if u use insta would u more kindly head over and take a look let me know what u think of wildlife especially and if any tips can provide to maybe improve it thanks
as i mentioned i have used a bridge camera since starting photography but limits in certain aspects of my photography for wildlife too so thats why looked at mirrorless and due to my amateur photography magazine online feature nikon seen it and impressed offered me a well discounted kit of my choice so got the nikon z7 with the 24-200 lens but looking for wildlife and as say if had budget would get the 500mm f5.6
a few people recommended i get the 300mm f4 with 1.4x converter but now thinking maybe zoom so have been recently recommended the nikon 200-500 and sigma 100-400 but thinking maybe either 300mm prime or the zoom only until they release the 100-400 or 200-600 nikon z lens which is on the roadmap but thank u again and will defo take a lok
@@bearsadventures666 what camera bodies do u use dslr or mirrorless i use nikon z7 r u thinking of selling one of the lenses and because if the weight is it possible to handhold the 200-500
Hi Alex, no problem. I really hope I can be of help here, but ultimately you need to look at affordability vs practicality and application of need to the subject you wish to photograph.
I know nothing about the Sigma 100-400....If you buy smart, a second hand 500 F4 I have seen for the same price as a 200 to 500 brand new ie. £1200... the better ones are roughly 2k....Nikkor 300mm f2.8 is awesome for the same money(second hand). You need to ask yourself what you need most.. Do you need flexibility? or are you a good range finder and don't mind using a limited prime lens.
I really ought to get my act together and put up some more test VLOGS as I think that may help.
My 400mm f2.8 was second hand and I love it to bits... bit its heavy and large.
The 200-500 is smaller when compacted, lighter and has better VR(just). It also has a longer reach. I know it's f5.6 but honestly the results are fantastic. If you look around the edges whilst pixel peeping you will notice its not as sharp around the edges(printed I have never noticed on A2).
Nikon 200 to 600 sounds fantastic and will directly compete with Tamrons offering.
I am old hat compared to you with mirrorless as I still use DSLR...but I do have a Lumix G5 which is great. The nikon Z series are fantastic Alex and you did well to get one.
I, before certain factors in my life changed and Covid, used to travel around the world photographing dogs to elephants to kangaroos. I used to live in Australia but now reside in the UK. My perfect wife is Australian.
Please take a look at my dedicated Photography channel "John Lavin-Ford Photography" as I will soon be putting more in-depth reviews and photo adventures on it and hopefully address some of your questions.
@@bearsadventures666 hi thanks for the info really appreciate it at moment as i mentioned i only have the 24-200 but looking at a wildlife lens but also a macro lens and maybe a wild angle
i will have a look about thanks as say i was looking at the sigma 300mm 2.8 but a bit too heavy and a bit large too as want something which as well use tripod but also maybe a monopod but to also be able to handhold it
thanks for the infor as say was ooking at 300mm prime with teleconverter but then a few people have said might struggle with a fixed focal so was then looking at 70-200 with 2x converter but then got recommended the 200-500, i know on nikon roadmap is a 100-400 and a 200-600 but what aperture unsure
thanks for all the info will have a look at your channel and do u use instagram too
they ok but my focus ring gone wrong still under warranty though but its a hastle sending it back
Hi James… That’s bad luck mate, I have heard of others on RUclips who have had the same issue. Luckily not me.
I’ll be uploading a video on my photography channel Re correct focus and setting it up in the near future. Hopefully that might help you mate.
My photography channel is “John Lavin-Ford” or click on the link I have in the “ABOUT” section of this channel.
Thank you for the comment.
can i uesd this lens for nikon D3400.
Yes you can
Hi, so sorry for the delayed reply… yes you can as its and F type mount… My dedicated photography channel is “John Lavin-Ford” many years ago i used to be sponsored by Nikon and I am staring to push my photography channel if you are interested.,. Thank you for the comment.
have got it back they said nothing wrong is yours loose
Hi James, to be quite honest mine feels how it should do…. I guess. I’ve not compared it to any others. If anything it’s a little stiff…. Nikon have obviously had some quality issues judging by what you are telling me.
I promise I will make a full blown vlog with this lens in the field and express the concerns you have brought up.
Just to add ….. My photography vlogs will be on my dedicated photography channel… “John Lavin-Ford”
Nikon certainly does not stand by the Shit they make/sell. I have had nothing but problems with a D850, that is only good as a Paperweight
@@pjimmbojimmbo1990 I can’t help but have to totally agree with you… Nikon do not try to keep loyal customers… Please sub to my dedicated photography channel as I am in the process of making 14 videos to upload where I also rant on about quality etc. the channel is “John Lavin-Ford”
Какой то скромный чехольчик у этого объектива в комплекте, защищающий его разве что от грязи! У моей Сигмы 150-500 в комплекте был хороший защищающий от ударов чехол.
If you like photography go to my photography channel “John Lavin-Ford”
Nice 🙏❤️
Thanks for the comment… I have a dedicated photography channel if you are interested.. “John Lavin-Ford”
Lens is poorly built. Mine locked up at 500mm and will only work wide open.
Sorry to hear that… Nikon will fix or replace that lens if still in warranty . I’ve used mine in the snow and rain and still works fine. At least stuck wide open at 5.6 is the better of the two evils.. I only use it at 5.6 well 95% of the time.
Glad you are happy with yours. I was disappointed with mine. Too heavy and cumbersome for handholding for me. Only chance for good sharp photo's I found was a tripod every time so I have sold it now. It worked OK and my lens hood was fine too. Used with a z6ii so now waiting to see what z lens 500 options are coming and more importantly how much they cost. Completely agree with your comments re the sock. Cheapskating I call that.
Hi and thanks for taking the time to comment. It is a heavy lens, that’s for sure. I am so sorry it did not work out for you…… I maybe just lucky with mine as I have since seen other RUclipsrs having quality issues.
Nikon really have to up their game level to keep with Canon and Sony.Nikon are asking top money for medium goods it seems lately.
Z lens won’t be cheap, but hopefully it will be good. I like the new Z series cameras.
@@bearsadventures666 Thanks for reading my comment. I completely agree with you that Nikon need to up their game. In fact I would go so far as to say if this z9 is not better than Sony and Cannons latest then I think sadly it really is the end of Nikon as a major Camera force. I don't know how they have slid down so with such a smaller share of the market as well. I like some aspects of the Z6ii but I can see me selling that as well in the not too distant future as I class it really as 3/4 of a good camera.
Sorry it was too heavy for you. I'm 79 y o and ONLY hand hold this lens. I am very pleased with the results I've gotten with BIF, namely the White Bodied Erns and Bramini Kytes of Krabi. Maybe you were shooting to slow - 1/2500 sec is minimum for this lens and BIF . . . Also I use a shoulder strap and let it support the weight when I'm not shooting.
No, they're not cheapskating. The sock is a money-saving option used to keep this lens at it's price point - which is incredible for a name brand telephoto of this reach and sharpness. My 80-400mm Nikkor came with a fine case; which I never use (btw, that's another fantastic lens that I highly recommend).
@@imoldgreggboosh3467 Glad you can manage with it Gregg. I aimed for 3000 for most of the shots I tried but it was a real weight to hold for more than a few seconds. Fine on a tripod but there its gone now. Hope the new owner gets on with it better than I did. I do still think it is cheap skating sorry. My Sigma 105 came in a solid padded zip up pouch which gives great protection for it. My Z mount 24-200 came with just a bit of thin cloth to wrap round it. Not what I would provide to show people how proud I was of my companys product.
@@imoldgreggboosh3467 … Thanks for the comment…. I agree, up the speed and use a level of support and it’s fine… I’ve not experienced low light issues with this men’s either.
I agree, incredibly good value for money… I run my own business and understand about saving when you can, but I believe the sock is just a dust cover and an after thought as not even logo d up. Quality very poor. I have an after market padded case for it though at £40 and it’s brilliant…
The lense hood could be improved to the quality of my 70-200 f2.8 and 400 f2.8… or at least have the option of upgrading to a Nikon version…..
I still must definitely agree with you as it’s just brilliant…so in retrospect my complaint is not about the lens at all, just the add on stuff which is inconsequential to the actual lens lol.
I would love the 80 to 400….. it must be amazing…. My 400 is an older version and heavy but I like it and paid just £1900 for it.
I have a dedicated photography channel you might be interested in… John Lavin-Ford photography…. I am in the the process of editing some D2H and D3 video adventures.
I sale my bike and buy a Nikon D5600 with 18-55mm. I live in middle of forest and hills and rivers. Name of place Coochbehar west bengal India. near Garumara national park. Jayanti hills and many of forests. This is a place of birds animals fish. I'm very interested for photography and this is doing almost 20years and my only camera is my mobile. till I have camera but without lens. That's why I need 2 lens but I don't have money. After buying my camera I save only Rs 10k 😢
Thanks for the comment. Sounds like a beautiful place you live in. Cameras and especially lenses are very expensive.
I have a dedicated photography channel called……… “John Lavin-Ford” … you might be interested in.
@@bearsadventures666 thank you sir, I'm always interested to work in photography. But I don't understand what you say
@@travelandfishing1453 … Ke lie jao chainal…. “John Lavin-Ford”
@@bearsadventures666 sorry sir, don't understand
Bon c’est quoinces trucs. Les titres en français et ça parle anglais 🆘
Merci pour le commentaire