Glad to see Nikon stepped up and got it fixed finally. I was disappointed with Nikon over the whole D600 debacle and how they handled it but they eventually got that squared away and no issues since for me . I have since upgraded to the D810 and purchased the 200-500mm several months ago and I am really impressed with the quality of images with that combination. I guess it goes to show that you can get a lemon once in awhile and it pays to be persistent. Kudos to you and the manager for getting it right!
I used the 200-500 on my D810, and I was very impressed. However it is nowhere near as sharp on the D850, regardless of AF setting, AF Tuning, or Shutter Speed/f-stop.
I have the lens and resolution is excellent. It's very sharp with good contrast wide open for me. AF is very accurate, but it's slow and has trouble with busy backgrounds. I agree with everything you said - it's fast enough for bigger animals but I miss a lot of bif shots that I wouldn't miss with other lenses.
Always wondered how the 200-500 AF speed is compared to the old 70-300VR AFS, can never find eg comparisons like this. ive had two 70-300VR’s and while many say the AF was good, i found it pretty lazy for fast alternating scenes, i hope the 200-500 isnt as bad but i feel it might be 😔
I got my lens 7-28/17 and it is very sharp, for what it is worth. There was talk in the beginning on videos about sharpness, but that was when it first came out. For over a year before I bought mine there were no complaints about sharpness in newer videos.
I have that problem with groupfocus both with d4s and d500 can not be sure where it Nails focus, those four focus Points have different positions. only use af-c and singel Point it gives me best results using 200-500.
I'm a Canon shooter but I'm sure that Nikon has the same adjustment in their menu somewhere under "focusing set ups", and that is an adjustment to "initial auto focus". You can set it up for faster initial focus but at the slight reduction in focus quality. Hope that helps. PS: Love your vids, what a place to live too.
Yes, Nikon has some adjustment and I have tested those settings - This lens just doesn't seem to want to focus on the owls like my other lenses unfortunately.
Great video Steve, I am glad you got your lens fixed and have seen what a great lens it is. I have been shooting with one on a d7200 for just over a year and I am really happy with it, it was really sharp right out of the box. This lens has made wildlife photography accessible to people like me that can't afford big prime lenses and high end cameras. Thanks for doing your update. I am looking forward to another Great Grey Owl video.
Also glad to have found Steve's video on the same issue my hubby is having using same..I think he also got a lemon 200-500 that needs fixing as Steve's did...
There are two kinds of accelerated motion. When the bird comes towards you then hopefully when at right distance it turns away. This is the ideal shooting scenario. Any other is just a situation and a reason for tell-tales. when the bird come straight at you (or moves away) or you’re just not positioned well for the shot, since the motion is accelerated, the background is over lit, the camera zoom delays the shot, etc.That shot could be a hit or a miss and there’s nothing you can do. Other than return the lens or pest the service. What I’ve learned is that a shot is what I could get for on where I am located. Background light, distance to subject and sometimes camera settings are all aggravating factors that prevent a sharp shot, but I could make my best guess on setup before the bird comes. But the bird only passes once, so what I can do is be ready to shoot against clouds and accept a darkened subject, or shoot against vegetation and accept a missed focus. Or a missed zoom. Or focus setting. That, or enjoy the true nature of fishing in murky waters that is the wildlife photography. Mind you, I’m never alone. My dog taught me most of what I know and still amazes me to how well it understands what standing still means and when. There are two things that worry me in life: my camera and my dog. The rest is just routine.
My first 200-500mm lens was not good at all. Very frustrated with the sharpness. Tried all kinds of focus modes and lighting conditions and all times of day and different weather.. it was just not sharp. I sent it back and my second one was better but still not even close in sharpness compared to what I was seeing other people post. Shipping was suspect on that one too. So I sent it back and went all the way to the NYC B&H shop to pick up my 3rd lens in person. It is the best of the 3. Recently Im trying getting out of normal VR and trying Sport VR mode to see if that helps. Ultimately this is my first lens above 300mm but still not as thrilled as I expected to be with sharpness!
very interesting...We bought ours from B&H too and had it shipped. Maybe we'll take a drive into NYC for this issue. Can you pls tell me how you went about the exchange? If you sent lens to Nikon, then how did you pick up 3rd lens in person as I'm not understanding unless Nikon arranged for that? Tks!
I have heard complaints about inconsistent quality/sample variation woes with the 200-500 lens. Another RUclips Photographer made a video comparing the 200-500 to the 300 f4 pf. He apparently returned/exchanged his (200-500) lens a couple times before he got an acceptably sharp copy. It's a shame it also turned out to be such a hassle for you. I suppose I was fortunate to get a good copy out of the gate. Even the loaner I had of this lens prior to purchase was a good one. Luck of the draw I suppose. It immediately replaced my Tamron 150-600 (1st generation) as my "go-to" birding lens. It's sharper and quicker to acquire focus than the Tamron (my copy anyway). I hadn't noticed the acquisition hiccup with birds taking off, but I don't have any fast telephoto primes to compare it to, so I'm probably less critical. Thanks for your impressions.
I bought the lens approximately two months ago, mine seems to be sharp at 5.6 but if a subject is say in tall sparse grass it can struggle with AF because of the foreground grass, overall I really like the lens.
I think autofocus problem has nothing to do with the lens but how it is set up on your camera. tweak the autofocus setting on the body you are using. I am a canon shooter but happen to travel with a professional wildlife photographer that use this lens and I can only say this lens is really sharp. we even pixel peep his shot and it was super sharp on moving birds and other animals. cheers
Enjoyed the video! I know I’m a bit late to the party here but just purchased this lens and it’s on its way.... was wondering what all you have in your stack between the tripod and lens foot? Looks like an all-RRS setup...love their stuff. Thanks!
I'm so glad you made this video Steve. I have that lens and it sits in my case because it just isn't sharp. I'll send it back to Nikon. Hopefully I don't have to do it three times like you.
About to sends ours back in as well. Poor hubby is at the beach trying once again to get sharp shots with this lens that just isn't quite there..I'm saving a bunch of info from owners for him so he'll finally send it in as it's not him, but the lens..
I'm prepared to bet 90% of DOA lenses are the result of shipping and "handling". Especially systems such as VR and AF which are more vulnerable to vibration and impact than other parts of the lens.
Thank you for your review, even though it was some time ago. I appreciate all your details and information. I think you have helped me a great deal. I appreciate all you information, along with your time and effort. 📷 📸
agree! At this moment, my husband is at the beach testing his 200-500 yet again, while I'm on the internet searching for info on potential issues with this lens. There is a lack of sharpness when shooting close to infinity on his D850. I think lens will get sent to Nikon as something is wrong and it's not him; he graduated from the NY Institute of Photography, so no amateur. This is first lens (of many) that seems to have an issue.
I also have a Nikon d500 and a 200-500 f5.6 lens and I also don't like the photos from this lens because they are not sharp. Now I ordered a sigma 500mm f4 I hope it will be better
Nothing like hand holding for those Owl in flight shots though. Tripods caused me to miss shots more than the lens’ slow focusing system. The best advantage it provides is that it’s a very light 500mm lens. Glad you are using it again!
My personal experience is that its not as sharp as a Sigma 150 600mm C, but the colors rendition were good. AF was horrible, not sure if its the FTZ adaptor, because it shows Err46 error sometimes
Very helpfull video, thanks. Glad to hear its as satisfying to own as everyone says. I am renting one this weekend and will buy one next week if its as good as I expect it will be.
I got mine some 3 weeks ago and are pretty happy with it(Use a D500). One thing I have noticed shooting some slow swiming ducks handheld, it is that the focus point seems to move off target after the shot. My impression is it moves to the right and slightly down, but I am away on work right now, so I need to test some more when I get back home.
Finally got back home, and besides that and everything breaking down around me when I got home I tested it some more. It is in normal vr mode I get sort of a recoil effect when I take a picture. Works fine in sport and off. No change in autofokus range either. Feels like a software issue to me, maybe someone else has had the same exp?
Glad you got your lens fixed and that most of the issues are resolved. I bought mine used and its one of the first of this type of lenses made (I'm the lowest serial # on the photosynthesis nikon lens serial # webpage), but its been very sharp at f5.6 to the point that i almost never slow it down. I don't have many shots of bird take offs directly towards me but will try and see if I get the same lag you mention. I'm thinking of "upgrading" to the PF primes, do you feel those will have better AF simply based on being primes vs zoom?
I think this is on of those lenses that you have to get a good copy or they suck! My first copy was optically excellent but before I decide to keep a lens I thoroughly inspect every little thing. I noticed that the rear mount screws were put in at an angle and were cross threaded, I instantly returned it to B&H and my second copy is awesome, I put several thousand shots on it over the winter and it performed great..I have used it anywhere from 22 degrees with freezing fog up to around 90 degrees and it is very consistent. I shoot birds of prey 99% of the time and have had no problem with AF lock or tracking..I think quality control isnt the greatest on this lens but for $1300 its a steal once you get a good one..Steve Perry mentioned in one of his vids that he didn't get a good copy until his 3rd one, you would think Nikon would tighten up on quality!
Thank you for your honest review and great videos. I have a canon 400 5.6 sharp as a tack but my 7D 1 is a piece of crap. I have a d800E sharp as a tack but my tamron 150-600 is a piece of crap. Now you got me thinking of that sigma 100=400 for the Nikon, thanks again , thumbs up and subscribed.
Steve, This is a long shot but is there any chance you remember who you worked with at Nikon to get this fixed? I am experiencing the exact same issue with f/8 looking great and f/5.6 looking crappy. I can't seem to get anyone at Nikon to give me any answers....
Great video! Now i can say my lens 200-500 have the same problem I'm using D7500 and Nikon 200-500 just bought them .. totally new and the pic are not sharp enough... my friend uses D7200 with 200-500mm and he takes better pictures... I'm totally disappointed..!
Great video. And information, it's a shame we can't expect top quality Qa on all lenses. I just ordered one yesterday to go with my D4 hopefully I got a decent one.
Interesting video Steve. I also shoot that lens and mine is sharp but I have had similar initial focus issues but it has been with smaller birds (Kestrels off power lines). I was sure it was me but now I will have to take a closer look. I am saving for that big prime lens. Thanks for your honest reviews. Your videos are great they always make me smile.
So Steve, this video is now 2+ years old and I'm wrestling with a decision on purchasing a longer lens and I'm looking at this lens option. Do you still feel your lens is good now or is there a different lens for
Actually yes… for most cases.. Tamron 150-600 G2! If you can live with less than stellar bokeh, this lens has it all, also now with the new firmware it rocks on Nikon Z, using the FTZ adapter. It does stop down to maximum aperture of 6.3 at the far end though, so you’re taking a 2/3 stop further hit on the light, compared to the Nikon 200-500 f5.6
Wonder if it's possible that the remaining bit of initial owl focus acquisition/tracking lag could be due to fact that the 200-500mm is an f/5.6 lens. Compared to an f/4.0 lens thats one stop less light for the body's AF system to grab light for initial focus and tracking which is done wide open I believe. I've purchased a D500 and 200-500mm since the 1st of the year so hope my lens has latest firmware. Been very pleased with both so far both for sharpness (even with a 1.4 TC) and AF but not a great deal of BIF use yet. We'll be in YS/GTNPs first week of June to add to the shutter actuation count.
have a question, have you had a lens that had no issue ? my nikon, tamron and sigma lens where perfect ( work like they are suppose too ) out of the boxe ( I have a D850 and D750 ). I mostly do Sports ( alpine skiing ), landscape and studio... so far ( touch wood ) , no issue on my lenses. thanks Martin
Hi Steve, as someone I looked up to as a wildlife photographer, I would like to know if you ever considered the sigma 150-600mm sports. Maybe you can rent 1 for a week and tell us how do you feel about it? Many thanks! Keep up the great work
BTW, I have read various reviews that the downside of the Nikkor 200-500 was the lagging AF. Unless Nikon redesigns the nikkor 200-500mm or have a major firmware upgrade, plenty of people will still be having this issues. The sigma sports on the otherhand excels on that field as I have read
I had been using af s 300 F4 ED.with 1.4x tele on d7100.i tried 200-500 and found it be significantly slower in focus speed and accuracy also not decent.
Reckon they shouldve made a sports focussed model, much faster AF, weather sealed, better turn ratio zoom ring and f/3.5 -5.6 .. lets not go too high on the expectations and price lol but, i’d go another $500-1000 if they did
@Steve Mattheis Hi Steve, is it possible for you to send me some sample of images that you have captured with the lens before (not sharp) and after (sharp) the fixed? Thank you very much.
would have been very nice if we had comparisons of before and after, from the bad and then when it was fixed. Because I returned my first copy, now I have a second one that I am not sure it's either a good one. I dont get the sharpness and contrast I thought I would have a medium and long distances...and sometimes a lot of Ghosting/Fringing like a glow around the edges of contrasty subjects.
I am very sure that ur copy of lens was faulty . I have this lens and its much much better at tracking and creates sharp images at f5.6 It tracks and creates super sharp pics and tamron and sigma 150-600 do not stand anywhere in front of this
Another great vlog Steve. I have the 300mm F4 PF and 1x4 tele, would you say this is better than the 200-500 for BIF? I was thinking the 200-500 would be more versatile, however not sure? Cheers
Great video Steve. Fortunately I got a very sharp sample of the 200-500 on my first go round. Great image quality wide open. I use this as my walk around lens for perched owls. Great compromise between weight and reach when I can’t lug my 600mm with tripod. Sadly I have had the exact issue you describe with owls taking flight - and have missed shots as a result. I still use it for the stellar image quality and versatility but really regret getting rid of my Nikon 200-400 F/4 and it’s pro caliber autofocus. The 200-500 is a great tool as long as folks appreciate its limitations.
Quality control on that lens is terrible, my first one I had to send back because they had cross threaded the screws on the rear mount ring and the edges of the screw heads were sticking out far enough to touch the camera mount ring. I sent it back to B&H and they sent me a new one and the image quality is awesome but as you say there is that initial lag of AF lock. I shoot bald eagles a lot and its frustrating to miss the shot when they do the initial leap off of a limb..For now its my work horse but im saving for the 500pf
I have tested this lens in the past before deciding on buying a different one. My experiences are pretty much exactly the same as yours. PS: Now waiting for Nikon fanboys to jump on me, where's me coat :)
Hi Steve, you're going on and on about sharpness and excellence, I'm 04:49 in and you're not in focus yet. I think I'd send back your vlogging camera as well. Frustrating to watch, sorry.
@@gaurav.anirbandutta Any other Canon or Sony and now Nikon wouldve kept his face in focus easily. Panasonics autofocus is widely known for being useless to vloggers for a reason.
@@gaurav.anirbandutta Step 1. Spend $2k on the lens Step 2. Another $2500 for the dslr Step 3. Then another $700 for the Panasonic Step 4. Gain 9,000 subscribers Step 5. Then you Gaurav can show all of us how its really done.
A bit sad I am since I was waiting fo you to back up what you say with photos... now I'm not even sure if you actually got in that evening a good go woth the owl... I like you though :)
So I’ve just not too long ago started getting into photographing short eared owls I am currently using the 55 to 300 mm and I’m just curious what ones you would recommend I have a hard time with the short Eared Owls they don’t like me to get very close
Hey Steve, thanks for the update on this lens. I have a lot of friends using this lens that have said great things. I am considering a zoom lens in this range and going between this one and the Sigma 100-400. I know you did a video on the Sigma where you said it was your go-to and in the comments, better than the nikon 200-500. I am wondering if after getting your 200-500 back if you think the Sigma 100-400 is still better in sharpness and faster autofocus and what you'd use more often or is your new and improved nikon 200-500 sharper and better in most cases other than owls in flight? Thanks again and love your work.
They are both excellent and very similar image quality (now). The sigma is much smaller and lighter, you should hold each of them in person to get a feel for the difference before you buy one.
I love my 200-500 with my D850 as well as using it with my 1.4X teleconverter. Did Nikon charge you anything for the multiple times you had to send it in?
@@SteveMattheis Can you possibly give me the name of the mgr at Nikon you worked with? Also - why didn't Nikon give you a new lens as it seems most all others did? Does one have to have multiple failures with sending it to them? Doesn't Nikon test the issue after fixing it? Seems not...Hope you have figured out the lag issue upon bird initial take-off...I'm looking for other reviews of that issue but haven't come across others which makes me wonder if no one else is shooting take-off's, or their 200-500 is shooting those take-off's with image quality sharpness good enough to crop, print & frame?
Thanks for the video Steve. You might have confirmed an issue I've been having with my 200-500. With the new one, at 5.6 are the shots usable straight off the camera? Or is a bit of PP needed, mine produces shots that I would deem unusable, especially with a D850 where cropping is generally required, they require A LOT more PP to get a half clean image.
For the money, especially when purchased used for around $800-850 it's an amazing lens and you won't be disappointed. Having said that there is sample variation meaning some copies are sharper than other's so test your copy before committing! The build quality is not the greatest and the Sigma Sports and Tamron G2 are both made quite a bit better. The Nikon is not as sharp as the Sigma Sports version, but the Nikon is slightly sharper than the Tamron and the Nikon has the best VR and fastest aperture at 500mm! If you can afford to spend more money there are better options like the Sigma Sports 150-600mm or used Nikon 200-400mm f4 VR original version, both of which are about $1950! I personally have and mainly use a Nikon 400mm f2.8 VR and use a D500 as a teleconverter replacement for when I need additional reach. However I had nothing between 200-400mm in my lens line up and also the 400mm f2.8 is extremely heavy and large. Those are the two reasons I added the 200-500mm lens to my kit and I'm happy with it. You need to keep your expectations down though somewhat if you have used or own any of the super-tele lenses as it comes nowhere close in any regard. For the price though it's an incredible lens and if you don't have a lot of money or just starting out or both haha, this is the lens to buy. Years ago you had to have at least $3,000 for a used lens to get into wildlife photography. Today $1200 and this lens gets you into the ballpark and even people like myself who have better and more expensive options are buying this lens for it's price, range and weight! It's great to use when you just want to get out and shoot handheld, walking around or in tight spaces where a tripod and super-tele prime can't easily be taken. This is my go to lens for backpacking or hiking as it's just so easy to take with you anywhere, which I cannot say for my 400mm!
Hi I'm just getting start in wildlife photography, I have the Nikon d500 but having a hard time deciding on a lens. I'm looking at either the sigma 100-400 or this lens nikon 200-500. Any thoughts?
John Doolittle Hi John, I bought the 200-500 about a month ago from B&H, it’s on sale now for the first time btw, and I love it. The VR is really good. Better than my other Nikkors and it is VERY sharp, at least in the middle even at f5.6. I mainly shoot small birds so edge sharpness is not usually an issue. So price is a plus as is the VR and sharpness on the one I have. On the down side the focus is the slowest of any of my lenses. That may be why this reviewer was not pleased shooting birds launching and in flight. So in a nut shell, I’m delighted with mine.
I've had this lens for over two years and love it. No problems with mine so far. I'm glad to hear Nikon was responsive, but that must have been very frustrating. Are you expecting this to focus on BIF's like a $12,000 prime? Mine does not, but I don't expect it to do that.
Hey! I do not know if you have any experience with canon lenes, but right now I am shooting with the Canon 40mm f5.6 prime lens with a 7d mk I, and was wondering if you think switching ships to nikon with d500 and 200-500 would be the right call? Or perhaps I could just go for a canon 100-400m f5.6 II. I know gear questions can be kinda boring and there is not always a right answer.
Hmm only you can answer that question but I will say that the D500 with the 200-500 is a top notch setup for wildlife. I can’t comment on the Canon gear because I don’t use it but I do hear great things about their 100-400 ii.
Yeah I figured. I think that the 200-500 is a better option for me because nikon has more room for future upgrades and once I am in a system it is hard to swtich. So once a lock is established the lens will keep focus and it is just the changing in speed that it struggles with?
I can tell you from experience, you will get excellent results at f5.6 if you use afc and single point and single or spot metering, it doesn't do well with matrix metering if you have a busy background..if its not super sharp when you get it send it back!! I had to return my first copy but this 2nd one is awesome
I had also to send it in twice (Nikon Switzerland). First time the retuned it not fixed at all but for that the VR On/Off switch no longer working. After the 2nd time sending it in, they returned it fixed. I had the same thoughts as you, everyone tells how good that lens is, but not mine. I just may guess that there must have been one or more bad production badges and you and me got one. Even Steve Perry returned his twice... However: now I am super happy 😃
It’s so hard to compare those two lenses, they are so different. I like the Fuji a lot, my only complaint is that I need to stop it down to f8 at 400mm to get excellent image quality.
oh my, oh my! have you ever thought about the fact that there were guys in the past who focused manually and got supersharp photos? even in wildlife photography?
Steve, good discussion. I own this lens and I can say, it's as sharp as my 500mmf4. I keep it for longer hikes etc. My only issues are the speed of the AF, but it's manageable, and the lost of one stop of lIght... that's a bigger issue because most of wildlife shooting is in the mornings and evenings. but agreat lens in any case.
enjoyed this although i use Canon so didn't really mean anything to me.... is it an American thing to add the word super before a lot of adjectives lol... super excited etc :)
Limitation a super focus lens which price range is around $1.2K is very limited. It's a good lens for the money but if you looking for a better image quality then you need to invest more money to better lenses
This is the only video i have seen about the 200-500 with so many negative comments.. every other video i have seen and seen the sample shots were great.. what you looking for.. perfection??.. good luck with that.. thumbs down from me
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It's been an outstanding lens for me so far in the 4 months I have had it. No complaints, especially at this price range.
I agree, an amazing value.
Glad you agree Steve.
kelsi6273
Ditto
Glad to see Nikon stepped up and got it fixed finally. I was disappointed with Nikon over the whole D600 debacle and how they handled it but they eventually got that squared away and no issues since for me . I have since upgraded to the D810 and purchased the 200-500mm several months ago and I am really impressed with the quality of images with that combination. I guess it goes to show that you can get a lemon once in awhile and it pays to be persistent. Kudos to you and the manager for getting it right!
I used the 200-500 on my D810, and I was very impressed. However it is nowhere near as sharp on the D850, regardless of AF setting, AF Tuning, or Shutter Speed/f-stop.
I have the lens and resolution is excellent. It's very sharp with good contrast wide open for me. AF is very accurate, but it's slow and has trouble with busy backgrounds. I agree with everything you said - it's fast enough for bigger animals but I miss a lot of bif shots that I wouldn't miss with other lenses.
Always wondered how the 200-500 AF speed is compared to the old 70-300VR AFS, can never find eg comparisons like this.
ive had two 70-300VR’s and while many say the AF was good, i found it pretty lazy for fast alternating scenes, i hope the 200-500 isnt as bad but i feel it might be 😔
I got my lens 7-28/17 and it is very sharp, for what it is worth. There was talk in the beginning on videos about sharpness, but that was when it first came out. For over a year before I bought mine there were no complaints about sharpness in newer videos.
I have that problem with groupfocus both with d4s and d500 can not be sure where it Nails focus, those four focus Points have different positions. only use af-c and singel Point it gives me best results using 200-500.
Exactly
I'm a Canon shooter but I'm sure that Nikon has the same adjustment in their menu somewhere under "focusing set ups", and that is an adjustment to "initial auto focus". You can set it up for faster initial focus but at the slight reduction in focus quality. Hope that helps. PS: Love your vids, what a place to live too.
Yes, Nikon has some adjustment and I have tested those settings - This lens just doesn't seem to want to focus on the owls like my other lenses unfortunately.
I found autofocus fine tuning made it spectacular, instead of just good enough. A really great lens for the money!
Great video Steve, I am glad you got your lens fixed and have seen what a great lens it is. I have been shooting with one on a d7200 for just over a year and I am really happy with it, it was really sharp right out of the box. This lens has made wildlife photography accessible to people like me that can't afford big prime lenses and high end cameras. Thanks for doing your update. I am looking forward to another Great Grey Owl video.
I have the exact same setup 👍👍
Also glad to have found Steve's video on the same issue my hubby is having using same..I think he also got a lemon 200-500 that needs fixing as Steve's did...
There are two kinds of accelerated motion. When the bird comes towards you then hopefully when at right distance it turns away. This is the ideal shooting scenario.
Any other is just a situation and a reason for tell-tales. when the bird come straight at you (or moves away) or you’re just not positioned well for the shot, since the motion is accelerated, the background is over lit, the camera zoom delays the shot, etc.That shot could be a hit or a miss and there’s nothing you can do. Other than return the lens or pest the service.
What I’ve learned is that a shot is what I could get for on where I am located. Background light, distance to subject and sometimes camera settings are all aggravating factors that prevent a sharp shot, but I could make my best guess on setup before the bird comes. But the bird only passes once, so what I can do is be ready to shoot against clouds and accept a darkened subject, or shoot against vegetation and accept a missed focus. Or a missed zoom. Or focus setting. That, or enjoy the true nature of fishing in murky waters that is the wildlife photography. Mind you, I’m never alone. My dog taught me most of what I know and still amazes me to how well it understands what standing still means and when.
There are two things that worry me in life: my camera and my dog. The rest is just routine.
My first 200-500mm lens was not good at all. Very frustrated with the sharpness. Tried all kinds of focus modes and lighting conditions and all times of day and different weather.. it was just not sharp. I sent it back and my second one was better but still not even close in sharpness compared to what I was seeing other people post. Shipping was suspect on that one too. So I sent it back and went all the way to the NYC B&H shop to pick up my 3rd lens in person. It is the best of the 3. Recently Im trying getting out of normal VR and trying Sport VR mode to see if that helps. Ultimately this is my first lens above 300mm but still not as thrilled as I expected to be with sharpness!
very interesting...We bought ours from B&H too and had it shipped. Maybe we'll take a drive into NYC for this issue. Can you pls tell me how you went about the exchange? If you sent lens to Nikon, then how did you pick up 3rd lens in person as I'm not understanding unless Nikon arranged for that? Tks!
I’ve had the same issues with mine and I need to send it back. Thanks for the update
I have heard complaints about inconsistent quality/sample variation woes with the 200-500 lens. Another RUclips Photographer made a video comparing the 200-500 to the 300 f4 pf. He apparently returned/exchanged his (200-500) lens a couple times before he got an acceptably sharp copy. It's a shame it also turned out to be such a hassle for you. I suppose I was fortunate to get a good copy out of the gate. Even the loaner I had of this lens prior to purchase was a good one. Luck of the draw I suppose. It immediately replaced my Tamron 150-600 (1st generation) as my "go-to" birding lens. It's sharper and quicker to acquire focus than the Tamron (my copy anyway). I hadn't noticed the acquisition hiccup with birds taking off, but I don't have any fast telephoto primes to compare it to, so I'm probably less critical. Thanks for your impressions.
We got a lemon too. Will contact Nikon now that our issue is confirmed by searching online about it!
I bought the lens approximately two months ago, mine seems to be sharp at 5.6 but if a subject is say in tall sparse grass it can struggle with AF because of the foreground grass, overall I really like the lens.
I think autofocus problem has nothing to do with the lens but how it is set up on your camera. tweak the autofocus setting on the body you are using. I am a canon shooter but happen to travel with a professional wildlife photographer that use this lens and I can only say this lens is really sharp. we even pixel peep his shot and it was super sharp on moving birds and other animals.
cheers
I respectfully disagree. While camera settings certainly make a difference, every lens is very different with regards to AF speed.
Enjoyed the video! I know I’m a bit late to the party here but just purchased this lens and it’s on its way.... was wondering what all you have in your stack between the tripod and lens foot? Looks like an all-RRS setup...love their stuff. Thanks!
Use mine with D500 but I do not see a day soon where f4 is a possibility. Does well for the dollars spent. Thank You Steve
Jim
I'm so glad you made this video Steve. I have that lens and it sits in my case because it just isn't sharp. I'll send it back to Nikon. Hopefully I don't have to do it three times like you.
No kidding, good luck!
About to sends ours back in as well. Poor hubby is at the beach trying once again to get sharp shots with this lens that just isn't quite there..I'm saving a bunch of info from owners for him so he'll finally send it in as it's not him, but the lens..
It would be nice to think they would be testing the lenses when they make them. It’s not that difficult.
I'm prepared to bet 90% of DOA lenses are the result of shipping and "handling". Especially systems such as VR and AF which are more vulnerable to vibration and impact than other parts of the lens.
Thank you for your review, even though it was some time ago. I appreciate all your details and information. I think you have helped me a great deal. I appreciate all you information, along with your time and effort. 📷 📸
Really useful video Steve, thanks. I use this lens with a D500 and still wonder if those missed shots are my fault or the lens!
agree! At this moment, my husband is at the beach testing his 200-500 yet again, while I'm on the internet searching for info on potential issues with this lens. There is a lack of sharpness when shooting close to infinity on his D850. I think lens will get sent to Nikon as something is wrong and it's not him; he graduated from the NY Institute of Photography, so no amateur. This is first lens (of many) that seems to have an issue.
I also have a Nikon d500 and a 200-500 f5.6 lens and I also don't like the photos from this lens because they are not sharp. Now I ordered a sigma 500mm f4 I hope it will be better
Nothing like hand holding for those Owl in flight shots though. Tripods caused me to miss shots more than the lens’ slow focusing system. The best advantage it provides is that it’s a very light 500mm lens. Glad you are using it again!
Yep!
My personal experience is that its not as sharp as a Sigma 150 600mm C, but the colors rendition were good.
AF was horrible, not sure if its the FTZ adaptor, because it shows Err46 error sometimes
Why didn't you put up pics for a comparison of before and after results ? It would've been helpful to see if we're having the same issue now.
Very helpfull video, thanks. Glad to hear its as satisfying to own as everyone says. I am renting one this weekend and will buy one next week if its as good as I expect it will be.
I got mine some 3 weeks ago and are pretty happy with it(Use a D500). One thing I have noticed shooting some slow swiming ducks handheld, it is that the focus point seems to move off target after the shot. My impression is it moves to the right and slightly down, but I am away on work right now, so I need to test some more when I get back home.
Try the two different VR settings, it might make a difference.
Finally got back home, and besides that and everything breaking down around me when I got home I tested it some more. It is in normal vr mode I get sort of a recoil effect when I take a picture. Works fine in sport and off. No change in autofokus range either. Feels like a software issue to me, maybe someone else has had the same exp?
This lens looks awesome. Would it be ideal for street photography?
Might be wrong but I think this is maybe Nikon’s worst quality control lens. It’s a big gamble buying one, a gamble I have resisted.
Great video as usual. I was at GTNP 2 weeks ago and got to see Blondie, but I didn't see you! lol. Keep these great videos coming. Big fan from KS!
Nice, glad you got to see her and the cubs, they are spectacular!
Glad you got your lens fixed and that most of the issues are resolved. I bought mine used and its one of the first of this type of lenses made (I'm the lowest serial # on the photosynthesis nikon lens serial # webpage), but its been very sharp at f5.6 to the point that i almost never slow it down. I don't have many shots of bird take offs directly towards me but will try and see if I get the same lag you mention. I'm thinking of "upgrading" to the PF primes, do you feel those will have better AF simply based on being primes vs zoom?
They absolutely have faster AF than the 200-500
I think this is on of those lenses that you have to get a good copy or they suck! My first copy was optically excellent but before I decide to keep a lens I thoroughly inspect every little thing. I noticed that the rear mount screws were put in at an angle and were cross threaded, I instantly returned it to B&H and my second copy is awesome, I put several thousand shots on it over the winter and it performed great..I have used it anywhere from 22 degrees with freezing fog up to around 90 degrees and it is very consistent. I shoot birds of prey 99% of the time and have had no problem with AF lock or tracking..I think quality control isnt the greatest on this lens but for $1300 its a steal once you get a good one..Steve Perry mentioned in one of his vids that he didn't get a good copy until his 3rd one, you would think Nikon would tighten up on quality!
Thank you for your honest review and great videos. I have a canon 400 5.6 sharp as a tack but my 7D 1 is a piece of crap. I have a d800E sharp as a tack but my tamron 150-600 is a piece of crap. Now you got me thinking of that sigma 100=400 for the Nikon, thanks again , thumbs up and subscribed.
Yeah, that Sigma is really good. And a smokin’ good deal. 👍
Steve, This is a long shot but is there any chance you remember who you worked with at Nikon to get this fixed? I am experiencing the exact same issue with f/8 looking great and f/5.6 looking crappy. I can't seem to get anyone at Nikon to give me any answers....
Great video! Now i can say my lens 200-500 have the same problem I'm using D7500 and Nikon 200-500 just bought them .. totally new and the pic are not sharp enough... my friend uses D7200 with 200-500mm and he takes better pictures... I'm totally disappointed..!
Sadly the Chinese quality control on that lens is bad.
Great video. And information, it's a shame we can't expect top quality Qa on all lenses. I just ordered one yesterday to go with my D4 hopefully I got a decent one.
Interesting video Steve. I also shoot that lens and mine is sharp but I have had similar initial focus issues but it has been with smaller birds (Kestrels off power lines). I was sure it was me but now I will have to take a closer look. I am saving for that big prime lens. Thanks for your honest reviews. Your videos are great they always make me smile.
So Steve, this video is now 2+ years old and I'm wrestling with a decision on purchasing a longer lens and I'm looking at this lens option. Do you still feel your lens is good now or is there a different lens for
Actually yes… for most cases.. Tamron 150-600 G2! If you can live with less than stellar bokeh, this lens has it all, also now with the new firmware it rocks on Nikon Z, using the FTZ adapter. It does stop down to maximum aperture of 6.3 at the far end though, so you’re taking a 2/3 stop further hit on the light, compared to the Nikon 200-500 f5.6
Wonder if it's possible that the remaining bit of initial owl focus acquisition/tracking lag could be due to fact that the 200-500mm is an f/5.6 lens. Compared to an f/4.0 lens thats one stop less light for the body's AF system to grab light for initial focus and tracking which is done wide open I believe. I've purchased a D500 and 200-500mm since the 1st of the year so hope my lens has latest firmware. Been very pleased with both so far both for sharpness (even with a 1.4 TC) and AF but not a great deal of BIF use yet. We'll be in YS/GTNPs first week of June to add to the shutter actuation count.
It’s certainly possible. Have fun out here, it’s a great time of year!
have a question, have you had a lens that had no issue ? my nikon, tamron and sigma lens where perfect ( work like they are suppose too ) out of the boxe ( I have a D850 and D750 ).
I mostly do Sports ( alpine skiing ), landscape and studio... so far ( touch wood ) , no issue on my lenses.
thanks
Martin
Yes, but what body are you using?
D850
Hi Steve, as someone I looked up to as a wildlife photographer, I would like to know if you ever considered the sigma 150-600mm sports. Maybe you can rent 1 for a week and tell us how do you feel about it? Many thanks! Keep up the great work
BTW, I have read various reviews that the downside of the Nikkor 200-500 was the lagging AF. Unless Nikon redesigns the nikkor 200-500mm or have a major firmware upgrade, plenty of people will still be having this issues. The sigma sports on the otherhand excels on that field as I have read
I had been using af s 300 F4 ED.with 1.4x tele on d7100.i tried 200-500 and found it be significantly slower in focus speed and accuracy also not decent.
Reckon they shouldve made a sports focussed model, much faster AF, weather sealed, better turn ratio zoom ring and f/3.5 -5.6 .. lets not go too high on the expectations and price lol but, i’d go another $500-1000 if they did
@Steve Mattheis Hi Steve, is it possible for you to send me some sample of images that you have captured with the lens before (not sharp) and after (sharp) the fixed? Thank you very much.
would have been very nice if we had comparisons of before and after, from the bad and then when it was fixed.
Because I returned my first copy, now I have a second one that I am not sure it's either a good one. I dont get the sharpness and contrast I thought I would have a medium and long distances...and sometimes a lot of Ghosting/Fringing like a glow around the edges of contrasty subjects.
What about Tamron 150-600 g2
I am very sure that ur copy of lens was faulty .
I have this lens and its much much better at tracking and creates sharp images at f5.6
It tracks and creates super sharp pics and tamron and sigma 150-600 do not stand anywhere in front of this
Great review..👍
Is it compatible with kenko DGX 1.4 tele converter ?
Great video Steve.... Glad u got your lens updated bud...1love
Another great vlog Steve. I have the 300mm F4 PF and 1x4 tele, would you say this is better than the 200-500 for BIF? I was thinking the 200-500 would be more versatile, however not sure? Cheers
Yes and yes... 😬
I agree that the 200-500 is more versatile. But the 300pf has much faster AF in my experience, it nails it every time.
The 300 is much better than the 200-500. Have both, almost always only use the 300, the 200-500 lives in the cupboard…
Great video Steve. Fortunately I got a very sharp sample of the 200-500 on my first go round. Great image quality wide open. I use this as my walk around lens for perched owls. Great compromise between weight and reach when I can’t lug my 600mm with tripod. Sadly I have had the exact issue you describe with owls taking flight - and have missed shots as a result. I still use it for the stellar image quality and versatility but really regret getting rid of my Nikon 200-400 F/4 and it’s pro caliber autofocus. The 200-500 is a great tool as long as folks appreciate its limitations.
Yes, well said.
Quality control on that lens is terrible, my first one I had to send back because they had cross threaded the screws on the rear mount ring and the edges of the screw heads were sticking out far enough to touch the camera mount ring. I sent it back to B&H and they sent me a new one and the image quality is awesome but as you say there is that initial lag of AF lock. I shoot bald eagles a lot and its frustrating to miss the shot when they do the initial leap off of a limb..For now its my work horse but im saving for the 500pf
I have tested this lens in the past before deciding on buying a different one. My experiences are pretty much exactly the same as yours. PS: Now waiting for Nikon fanboys to jump on me, where's me coat :)
Hi Steve, you're going on and on about sharpness and excellence, I'm 04:49 in and you're not in focus yet. I think I'd send back your vlogging camera as well. Frustrating to watch, sorry.
Yep, that was the Panasonic. I got a Canon after that video, it works much better for vlogging...
It's not the camera it's you
@@gaurav.anirbandutta Any other Canon or Sony and now Nikon wouldve kept his face in focus easily. Panasonics autofocus is widely known for being useless to vloggers for a reason.
@@tooshmart6669 Step 1: Increase Aperture
Step 2: Lock Focus
you work with what you have. A poor workman blames his tools.
@@gaurav.anirbandutta Step 1. Spend $2k on the lens
Step 2. Another $2500 for the dslr
Step 3. Then another $700 for the Panasonic
Step 4. Gain 9,000 subscribers
Step 5. Then you Gaurav can show all of us how its really done.
A bit sad I am since I was waiting fo you to back up what you say with photos... now I'm not even sure if you actually got in that evening a good go woth the owl... I like you though :)
Budget bag for this lens and my body with 2 extra lens any option???
So I’ve just not too long ago started getting into photographing short eared owls I am currently using the 55 to 300 mm and I’m just curious what ones you would recommend I have a hard time with the short Eared Owls they don’t like me to get very close
I’d recommend the sigma 100-400
Hey Steve, thanks for the update on this lens. I have a lot of friends using this lens that have said great things. I am considering a zoom lens in this range and going between this one and the Sigma 100-400. I know you did a video on the Sigma where you said it was your go-to and in the comments, better than the nikon 200-500. I am wondering if after getting your 200-500 back if you think the Sigma 100-400 is still better in sharpness and faster autofocus and what you'd use more often or is your new and improved nikon 200-500 sharper and better in most cases other than owls in flight? Thanks again and love your work.
They are both excellent and very similar image quality (now). The sigma is much smaller and lighter, you should hold each of them in person to get a feel for the difference before you buy one.
I love my 200-500 with my D850 as well as using it with my 1.4X teleconverter. Did Nikon charge you anything for the multiple times you had to send it in?
No charge... ya!
@@SteveMattheis Can you possibly give me the name of the mgr at Nikon you worked with? Also - why didn't Nikon give you a new lens as it seems most all others did? Does one have to have multiple failures with sending it to them? Doesn't Nikon test the issue after fixing it? Seems not...Hope you have figured out the lag issue upon bird initial take-off...I'm looking for other reviews of that issue but haven't come across others which makes me wonder if no one else is shooting take-off's, or their 200-500 is shooting those take-off's with image quality sharpness good enough to crop, print & frame?
Would this lens be good for shooting kids soccer?
Thanks for the video Steve. You might have confirmed an issue I've been having with my 200-500. With the new one, at 5.6 are the shots usable straight off the camera? Or is a bit of PP needed, mine produces shots that I would deem unusable, especially with a D850 where cropping is generally required, they require A LOT more PP to get a half clean image.
Yes, the images now are good at all apertures and focal lengths.
@@SteveMattheis thanks, took my lens in yesterday. See how it goes.
How’s this lens theses days..?
For the money, especially when purchased used for around $800-850 it's an amazing lens and you won't be disappointed. Having said that there is sample variation meaning some copies are sharper than other's so test your copy before committing! The build quality is not the greatest and the Sigma Sports and Tamron G2 are both made quite a bit better. The Nikon is not as sharp as the Sigma Sports version, but the Nikon is slightly sharper than the Tamron and the Nikon has the best VR and fastest aperture at 500mm! If you can afford to spend more money there are better options like the Sigma Sports 150-600mm or used Nikon 200-400mm f4 VR original version, both of which are about $1950! I personally have and mainly use a Nikon 400mm f2.8 VR and use a D500 as a teleconverter replacement for when I need additional reach. However I had nothing between 200-400mm in my lens line up and also the 400mm f2.8 is extremely heavy and large. Those are the two reasons I added the 200-500mm lens to my kit and I'm happy with it. You need to keep your expectations down though somewhat if you have used or own any of the super-tele lenses as it comes nowhere close in any regard. For the price though it's an incredible lens and if you don't have a lot of money or just starting out or both haha, this is the lens to buy. Years ago you had to have at least $3,000 for a used lens to get into wildlife photography. Today $1200 and this lens gets you into the ballpark and even people like myself who have better and more expensive options are buying this lens for it's price, range and weight! It's great to use when you just want to get out and shoot handheld, walking around or in tight spaces where a tripod and super-tele prime can't easily be taken. This is my go to lens for backpacking or hiking as it's just so easy to take with you anywhere, which I cannot say for my 400mm!
Patrick Smith thank you so much I m getting refurbished Nikon 299/500 f5.6 one from Adorama, thanks 🙏🏻
Hi I'm just getting start in wildlife photography, I have the Nikon d500 but having a hard time deciding on a lens. I'm looking at either the sigma 100-400 or this lens nikon 200-500. Any thoughts?
John Doolittle Hi John, I bought the 200-500 about a month ago from B&H, it’s on sale now for the first time btw, and I love it. The VR is really good. Better than my other Nikkors and it is VERY sharp, at least in the middle even at f5.6. I mainly shoot small birds so edge sharpness is not usually an issue. So price is a plus as is the VR and sharpness on the one I have. On the down side the focus is the slowest of any of my lenses. That may be why this reviewer was not pleased shooting birds launching and in flight. So in a nut shell, I’m delighted with mine.
What tripod and head are you using in this video?
Assuming you did a focus calibration of the lens against your camera body?
Of course
I've had this lens for over two years and love it. No problems with mine so far. I'm glad to hear Nikon was responsive, but that must have been very frustrating. Are you expecting this to focus on BIF's like a $12,000 prime? Mine does not, but I don't expect it to do that.
I don’t expect it to perform like an expensive prime either. It is a great value!
Thanks, I have been wondering
Except for my D850
Say what? Man, I need to get out more, I’m out of the loop!
Hey! I do not know if you have any experience with canon lenes, but right now I am shooting with the Canon 40mm f5.6 prime lens with a 7d mk I, and was wondering if you think switching ships to nikon with d500 and 200-500 would be the right call? Or perhaps I could just go for a canon 100-400m f5.6 II. I know gear questions can be kinda boring and there is not always a right answer.
400mm*
Hmm only you can answer that question but I will say that the D500 with the 200-500 is a top notch setup for wildlife. I can’t comment on the Canon gear because I don’t use it but I do hear great things about their 100-400 ii.
Yeah I figured. I think that the 200-500 is a better option for me because nikon has more room for future upgrades and once I am in a system it is hard to swtich. So once a lock is established the lens will keep focus and it is just the changing in speed that it struggles with?
Thank for the heads up. I just got mine yesterday. Going to take mine out on my z6
Is it worth to switch from 300 2.8 Af-s1 to this 200-500, right now i'm usually use 300 with tc1.4 and 1.7.
Hmmm, that’s entirely up to you but the 200-500 is a great lens.
How long have you had the lens? I just ordered my own copy and hoping I dont have to go through that kind of trouble.
I can tell you from experience, you will get excellent results at f5.6 if you use afc and single point and single or spot metering, it doesn't do well with matrix metering if you have a busy background..if its not super sharp when you get it send it back!! I had to return my first copy but this 2nd one is awesome
I had also to send it in twice (Nikon Switzerland). First time the retuned it not fixed at all but for that the VR On/Off switch no longer working. After the 2nd time sending it in, they returned it fixed. I had the same thoughts as you, everyone tells how good that lens is, but not mine. I just may guess that there must have been one or more bad production badges and you and me got one. Even Steve Perry returned his twice... However: now I am super happy 😃
Same issue for us. Contacting Nikon mgmt this week!
Lol! Was that owl pooping in the photo!? What is that white stringy stuff?
Yep, owl poop. Any chance I can sneak in an animal pooping photo, I do it.
Does nikon pay for the postage costs on returns or is that all on the consumer ?
I pay to send it, they pay to return it for warranty repairs.
Would this fit a d5600 with adaptor or normal
Yes it would work great without any adapters.
The Z7 has animal eye tracking. Maybe that’s what you need.
Not weather sealed...showstopper for me!
Is the Fujifilm 100-400mm better?
It’s so hard to compare those two lenses, they are so different. I like the Fuji a lot, my only complaint is that I need to stop it down to f8 at 400mm to get excellent image quality.
If you had only 1 lens for wildlife which one would you chose?
Maybe the Nikon 180-400 but I haven’t tried it yet.
I do do wild life
oh my, oh my! have you ever thought about the fact that there were guys in the past who focused manually and got supersharp photos? even in wildlife photography?
Yep, technology has changed everything...
Yea, and they did it without taking a thousand rapid fire shots!
Steve, good discussion. I own this lens and I can say, it's as sharp as my 500mmf4. I keep it for longer hikes etc. My only issues are the speed of the AF, but it's manageable, and the lost of one stop of lIght... that's a bigger issue because most of wildlife shooting is in the mornings and evenings. but agreat lens in any case.
True.
enjoyed this although i use Canon so didn't really mean anything to me.... is it an American thing to add the word super before a lot of adjectives lol... super excited etc :)
Nah, it’s just me that adds super to everything... 😬
Hopefully the lens isn't as out of focus as you are in this video.
Truth
lol ,...you can say the tracking sucks ...its ok ....smiling later
Biggest drawback - Made in China.
Guess what? You are out of focus 70% of the video haha
So true. Video autofocus in the forest is a disaster.
Limitation a super focus lens which price range is around $1.2K is very limited. It's a good lens for the money but if you looking for a better image quality then you need to invest more money to better lenses
You're "not in focus" Steve
I believe on the lens it says "Made in China" so quality will vary.
This is the only video i have seen about the 200-500 with so many negative comments.. every other video i have seen and seen the sample shots were great.. what you looking for.. perfection??.. good luck with that.. thumbs down from me
You get a thumbs down from me for not watching the whole video. And for being upset that not everyone has the same opinion as you.
A thousand dollars is a lot of money to spend on a faulty lens. I am wondering this lens worked out for you.
Who are you? Nobody.
Who are you? Miserable.
Not a single photo to demonstrate the issue? Bad video.
Bad comment.
Such a waste of time. Instead of showing the images you wasted entire video with your review within it showing the picture quality.
What was a bigger waste of time? Watching the review or typing your ridiculous comment?
Too much talking, not enough shots !
But I had a long story to tell...