Extra gear for me is piece of mind and confidence inspiring for long distance birding trips, even if the gear is used only once or twice a year you won't regret it when you are in the rare situation that you need it on a trip, a camo hide is a good example of something that might not be used much, but I wouldn't leave without it.
I really enjoy your videos Jan. You point out that Nikon has affordable primes now but not an affordable body to match it. Well, you should try out the Nikon Zf. Although it looks like a retro camera, its AF sytem is the same as in the Z8 and 9. FPS speed is lower, but I am really I impressed with the AF system. With the added Smallrig grip it feels really well. The programmability of the buttons is great, so I use the camera now as my main bird photography body.
Jan, you just must try the Z9 with the new 4.10 firmware which introduces bird subject detection. It's a totaly different experience from when you reviewed it in the past. I feel sure you will be very impressed.
Most impressive update,it’s ten steps forward,my Z9’s are on par or ahead of anything out there.Yes,I know,Sony and Canon will be on our heels but right now Nikon keeps upping the game with these continuing firmware updates.Not too bad considering the naysayers not a year ago were digging Nikons grave……sorry…..didn’t happen.
@@chipsrafferty8362 Yes Nikon Z8/9 are really great with the 180-600, 600 f6.3, 400 f4.5, 800 f6.3 but reality is that price wise it all sits in the top mid and high-priced bracket. If Nikon wants to own this market segment they need an APS-C Z500 with the Z8 specs and a Mid-Range FF Body like the Canon R6ii. Sony sold a lot of A9 and A9ii bodies with the 200-600, Nikon sold many D500's with 200-500 lenses. Past 3 weeks met number of Nikon users at the price point where the 180-600 fit budget, but they need to struggle along with a completely overpriced Z6ii. So their option to move to Z system is limited, Nikon users normally migrate to Sony and local stores tell me that with Black Friday events, frustrated Nikon users buy Sony A9ii with 200-600 or the Sony A7iv with 200-600. Even Fuji XH2s and 100-400 or 150-600 as they want the Mirrorless benefits. We even see significant increase in OM systems sales. The OM-1 is a mini A1/Z8 and the 100-400 or 300 f4 present a fantastic package, one of the best AF systems on the market with pin sharp lenses.
Interesting discussion. Glad to hear the need for APS-C bodies, Canon and Nikon always had great APS-C bodies but both have left a big gap and Sad that Sony or Fuji could not step into this gap. I really feel Fuji missed a big opportunity with the XH2s, great camera but the AF still lags way behind and if the introduced a 150-400 f5.6 they could have made a strong run. But then there is OM Systems that introduced the OM-1 with the 150-400 f4.5 with build in TC plus the fantastic 300 f4 and 40-150 f2.8 more as a bigger animal wildlife lens. I know many frowns at MFT format but many underestimate the Ability of the OM-1. AF level on par with the Z8/9 if not better at initial focus acquisition and tracking is crazy. Lens sharpness and IQ is mind-blowing for that little system. With AI software noise is not an issue even at 12800. Pro Capture in RAW is a game changer and 50/60 fps is also top class. Price wise for top end gear the OM-1 is US$ 2300. So maybe photographers can find what they want in other systems? Like many of the full time OM or MFT professionals would say, it is interesting that part time photographers would argue with full time professionals that small sensor systems are not good enough for professional work. Travel light, shoot more. Great channel.
X-H2s autofocus definitely isn't perfect, but I wouldn't say it lags way behind the competition. I think Canon missed a huge opportunity by not putting a stacked sensor in the R7, or at least a sensor with a much faster readout speed
I've only cursorily looked at the R7, but what do you think needs improving? Does it have two card slots, like my now dinosaurish 7D II? I'm sure it lacks some of the best and newer features of the R6 II.... For now, I'm happy with my one MILC, the R5, and 2 DSLR's. If the R5 II impresses as it likely will, I'll add it. Would prefer it over the R6 II, I'm sure... especially for the CF E card slot that it will have at least one of, and hopefully two
One doesn’t NEED a second body but it is so convenient, because it just reduces the number of times I have to change lenses! And I can set up one camera to shoot a timelapse for instance or a long exposure while I can still set up the other camera for another composition or for hunting birds and not get bored waiting for that long exposure or timelapse etc. 😉
Glenn you absolutely hit the nail right on the head Canon is just absolutely blowing it , they should have brought out like what you said a 500 F 5.6 and a 600 F 6.3 similar to what Nkkon has . And Jan and you are right who wants to drag around a 600 F 4.0 ( I know I can't because I have a bad shoulder ) Besides what it would cost for a 600 F 4.0 .
Thanks Jan & Glenn, really enjoyed this awesome episode again with a great selection of images of your followers with good constructive remarks ! For me the ideal backup camera is my wife using her Sony RX10mIV, since I don't need to carry this gear and she made me jealous when my 100-500 was fogged out for nearly 2 days 😛
Nice episode guys. I like what Glenn say about the most important thing is go out and have fun birding. Regarding having a back up camera, I have a very simple Canon T7, but this body saved me on two trips and one of them was very far away. I went to do field work in Croatia and my 7D mk II stopped working in the middle of the trip. If I hadn't taken my T7 on the trip I would have stayed without taking photos for 3 days before returning to Brazil. This camera is extremely slow, but it saved me.
How to upgrade is always a difficult and expensive decision. I agree that a slow and incremental approach is the best way to go. I try to look at what I can't currently do and then look at my options on how to close that gap, and hopefully that's a matter of improving my skills as opposed to emptying my bank account. I definitely agree on the need for a back up body. My main camera failed a couple of years ago and it was nice to have an alternative while I waited for the repair. Plus, its handy to have a second set up so I can take some landscape or macro shots, instead of changing lenses in the field. Thanks for the discussion!
You two are just the best company in the world. I always expect to be laughing and there's a sense of excitement when I click on Jan and Glenn. The info and photos are such a bonus :)
Yes, main thing is the fun in the field! Need and Want things must to be balanced, pro or hobbyist. I think that the main thing in choosing gear when you are going to upgrade is to take something that will exclude frustration due to some disadvantages of the current gear (in the field... this moment is when you keep up with all the movements of a hunting sparrowhawk flying at you (in 1-2 meters away. So close. And good light) in a cool pose, but not your camera and lens. ahh, this pain. how often does this happen to me. But it's hard for me to buy something new, specifically knowing that it will infuriate me there ...) Backup cameras is good think in trips. More hard thing is have not one telephoto lens... I know what cool pro photographers have 2-4 lenses, but If I have in trip any 2-3 lenses, I use only one what I prefer, so I don't want to have this extra weight... Buuuut what if my lens will broke in some ways... You see birds doing crazy things like hunting like in 2-4 meters away or not common bird and can't shoot all of them. So painful, so familiar (without total broken lens - because particularly broken is ok, use one and still like it) 😞
At about 5:00, you neglect to include the Tamron 150-600. I have had the G2 (Canon mount) since its release. Reviews peg it as very comparable to the Siggy Sport in image quality, but it is lighter in weight and on the wallet. I find it fine, but as I also have an EF 500 II and both RF and EF 70-200's, it doesn't get as much use as it did before I got the 500 a few years ago.
Well presented guys. Your editing discussions with the viewers images are very important for increasing the pleasure in bird photography perhaps more so that getting the best and more expensive gear. Glenn, I understand your hesitation to buy more gear, but I agree with Jan that a 1.4x is extremely versatile and useful piece of kit when an excellent previously owned copy can be had for a modest bag of loonies. As you two are attentive to return on investments (ROI), your viewers on tight budgets might appreciate hearing you discuss ROI advantages of m43 gear especially when the latest and greatest m43 bodies have really fast frame rates and continuous AF with good bird AI in low light. They can match or come close to the megapixels (and even dynamic range) of the R3 for a fraction of the price. De-noise post processing very much levels the low light issues too.
My last Canon dSLR was the 7D MK II along with the Sigma 150-600, Canon 100-400 MK II and the 300mm f/2.8. I liked that they had short min focus distance. I personally do not like fixed focal length lenses. I find them more limiting. The 500mm and above are way to pricey, too heavy and the 18+ feet min focus distance. My OM-1 and 150-400 f/4.5 combo is a great setup and very versatile combo. Too often, I am not able to move forward or backward because no space or will scare off the subject. Have the Pro Sets and the Brush pack.
With modern lenses I value flexibility over image quality, at least to a degree. For example, if I had the choice between the Nikkor 180-600 and the the 600 PF, I would probably pick the 180-600. Yes, the prime is sharper. It better be at that price difference. But the 180-600 is great as well while giving me a very useful range of focal lengths with the same maximum reach of 600mm. For what I do it's the better lens. If you mainly shoot at 600mm then the 600 PF is probably an absolute dream lens. As long as you can make the aperture work for you and if you don't care about more reach, you save 11.000 bucks or so compared to the 600 TC 😁
like any technical hobby Jan, we'll always drool over the unattainable [gear]. I mean, I'd love a RF800f5.6, but $$$$$. A used 600f4 EF II is a better option (but still unattainable for me). Certainly better than my current 500f4 mark 1. That extra 140mm reach comes in handy more often than not imho, at least, based on my experiences with 700mm reach on a FF camera. It's about the same weight as my mark 1 500f4, but offers the full DPAF coverage on my R3, plus full FPS too (vs a maximum of 14fps in H+ and 9fps with H drive modes), sharper and much, much better IS. I'm not sure how IQ and AF are vs the mark 1 primes. With all of that said, I have 2 options: 1. use my tax return to get the new RF200-800 and keep the mark 1 500f4 prime 2. sell the 500f4 prime and use my tax return to get a used mark 2 500f4 prime I cannot afford a mark 2 600f4. I am on a limited income, so, have to make do with what I can realistically achieve, and not what I want. What would you suggest?
Thanks a lot Glen and dear Jan for great episode as well as photo choice; and, for helpful tips on it. Surely it will help with work process of my photos ❤
I typically carry an R6 Mk II these days with the RF 100-500 attached to it most of the time. I also carry the original EOS R which usually has my RF 24-105 f/4 attached to it. That pretty much has me covered for birds, landscape and wildlife. Also, I do pack the RF 14-35 & RF 70-200 f/4 as well. I don’t find it to be too heavy or awkward when using an appropriate camera back pack.
for those unware ... RUclips is now blocking videos after 3 views if you have adblocker on your PC ... I don't monetise any of the videos i've upload .. So why should i be forced into pay for ad free .. It's ironic
Glen, you are nuts mate😳. These trips cost more than a second hand body. Take a cheaper full frame R second hand if you need it.........please? I cannot imagine what it would be like trying. to go back to 7D, never mind if you have some R lenses.........Sell the body the moment you get home.
You NEED food, water, air to breathe, a roof over your head and clothes on your back. Everything else is a WANT. At least that's what my wife tells me!
I shoot old gear, 7dII is my camera. I may buy the R5 II when it comes out if it is a nice up grade. Everyone is going mirrorless. Sounds like I will be in for a treat if I ever buy a mirrorless camera.
As always, a great video guys. And the photos you chose was stunning too. I really hope that Canon will start filling the holes they have in their line up of lenses, with some lighter cheaper prime lenses like Nikon have done. Like the 800 and the 600. Amazing lenses for the price. Did test out the 800mm with the z9 when i was guiding some birdwatchers from Norway, here in Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. And i have to say that it was an amazing lens/combo. Wishing you a great week. Cheers, Bjoern
What i would like is a Protaable and compactable Brolly ( umbrella ) on a tripod . That i can carry easily whilst on my bike . To use out in the rain / Snow
I started bird and wildlife photography in 2020. I spent a lot of time researching lenses before deciding on and buying the Nikon 500mm 5.6 pf lens (and the FTZ adapter) on my Z6ii. The Z6ii is a disappointing subpar camera for birds and wildlife so I had to move backward, getting a D850 - while keeping the Z6ii and my Z mount trilogy lenses for other stuff. With the D850/500mm pf combo, I never looked back. This past spring, I upgraded to the Z8 and, now confident with Nikons mirrorless AF, my next purchase will likely be the 800mm 6.3 pf. While initially disappointed by Nikon, today I think their optics simply blow away Sony and Canon. I also bought the OM1 as a compact travel and street photography camera but ended up getting the fantastic 150-400mm 4.5 TC lens, which gives equivalent reach of up to 1000mm. Unlike Glen, I’m a retiree with enough money and lots of time to indulge my hobby. So, between my great D850 and my alternative OM1, I have backup coming out of my ears.
Thanks to the 2 of you for your insights here. Jan, given your expertise in editing bird photos, what do you think about the new lens blur feature in LRC? Specifically letting AI do some pixel wrangling to make the background a creamy blur rather than relying on the physics of a big f4 lens, or concern about the distance between the subject and background?? Kind regards.
Not my favourite approach, since it’s usually not perfect, especially with fine feathers and hairs, but I am sure it can be helpful at times at low levels
I went to mirrorless for the AIAF but am frequently disappointed, small birds launch very quickly and the best image is often soft. Then the R5 does not like Sigma lenses. I bought a 5DsR to get more out of the Sigma lenses, that is incredible. The main problem with Canon mirrorless is that most lenses are very expensive, even the extenders are several hundred pounds. I bought a 100-400Lii because there was no way I could justify a 100-500, that give good results with the 2x, which I had already, only the RF lens and extender is £3.5k! Sorry, as a pensioner that sucks.
@blisteringbooks2428 Please elaborate.... I finally got my first Siggy lenses in over 25 years, for astro, primarily--the 28 and 35 ART's--1.4. They, of course, perform flawlessly on either my R5 or 5D IV.... or 7D II, I'm sure.
I like my gear to be portable i might choose the 100-500mm RF + a 1.4x teleconverter instead of the newly announced 200-800mm RF on my R7 , what do you think?
Extender is really bad on the 100-500. Sure you can get good photos but its not nearly the same joy to use as without extender. I find 500mm to be enough in most scenarios so thats why I wont be getting the new lens and only struggle with extender when I absolutely need it. If I could choose now I would probably go with the 200-800mm just for that extra reach and no hazzle of extender ever again. Beware that I havent used the new lens so cant comment on other factors between the two. In short, if you go with 100-500mm dont do it in hopes of using an extender with it. Rent it and if 500mm feels limiting then go with the 200-800mm instead.
Only looking at MTF charts, the 200-800mm should theoretically be better at the long end than a 100-500mm with 1.4 extender. The weight difference is "only" 300g. The 200-800mm is a lot cheaper than the 100-500mm with extender and I like, the flexibility of the 200-800mm. I don't like changing lenses in the field. Its faster to turn the zoom ring and hassle free. For a lightweight setup I have the RF 100-400mm on my R7. I love the setup. This lens realy is a killer for the price, at half the weight of the 100-500mm. But consider the most likely supperior weather sealing on the 100-500mm. And think about what focal length u really need. If you just get into birding, than I can whole heartedly recommend the RF 100-400mm :)
I tend to agree. It's light for it's size, but the 200-800 looks like an ergonomic nightmare. Extended to 800mm it's very long. Handholding could be really awful. The zoom throw looks long too. And f9? Ugh.
@@Xirpzya very different experience to me. I have used the RF1.4x on the 100-500 with great results in good light. As long as the subject isn’t still tiny in the frame when the extender is attached, it’s quite easy to get fantastic results.
Glenn... are you *crazy*? If you're going to Antarctica every year, I can understand a little better if you only bring one lens and one camera that are compatible with each other. But, are you going there that often that you don't care if something goes really south with your camera? Are you bringing the 7D2 but not a lens? What's the use of that, there's no converter going that way as far as I know... So, you must also bring an EF lens, I assume. I've have had 3 major trips destroyed due to camera catastrophies that wasn't possible to do anything about, and I didn't have compatible back-up, only "social" camera + lens. It's AWFUL!!! First time: Texas & Colorado in spring 1997, second time NW India 1998 and third (so far: the last) was in Brazil (Cristalino Jungle Lodge + Itatiaia NP). I repeat: it was *horribly* awful! For one who wants to take a photo of every bird species one sees (I know it's virtually impossible when there's a severe time limit, but it remains my goal. I don't care if it's a shitty image, I still want it!) the whole trips feels redundant in a way, when there's no decent camera around. Ugh! It's a fate I wouldn't whish on my worst enemy (of which I have none, as far as I know) and certainly not you... But, maybe you're on the trip doing a workshop, and would feel it's totally OK focusing on just learning everyone in the group to get wonderful photos of everything that shows up. Still: maybe get a used R6ll as backup-body? That's o good one, but then you might "need" the extra reach by adding a x1,4 tc bcs of the low mp-count... Ho-hum... A used R7, maybe. Cheaper, small, and more mp plus the cropped sensor. I guess you've already considered all this and said "Nah, my reasoning stands." It makes my second-hand anxious-levels rise, I'll tell you. Jan's as well, I can tell. Ah well, we throw our hands in the air.
19:43, I think a lot of the photos you guys suggest is subjective. Photography is a very subjective art and some like it, some don’t. Where you guys have your own style of editing and positioning of the photo, others might like it imperfect as it is. Again photography is very subjective, like the art display of a banana taped on to the wall with duct tape sold for a million bucks.
Hi Jan and Glen. In terms of budget or middle option do you think micro 4/3 deserves an option. The OM-1 ( probably a Mk II not far away) and the soon to be released G9ii offer some pretty amazing capabilities. And with modern day Denoise software the boogeyman of low light limitations fades away a lot. Ok, not for pros maybe, but to get good resolution, high fps, good af options, reach and pre-capture in a light package. From this video and videos by others it seems that Nikon believes there is life after smartphones. Many options, lighter gear and better prices. And like Glen suggested, less need in the future for big, heavy expensive primes. Or are they aiming at baby boomers spending their children’s inheritance 😮
It maybe sound harsh to some, but every camera is a luxury item. Period. If you think otherwise you are entitled or were already born entitled. Nuff said.
Make yourself happy and buy what you want. You live only once. As long as you are happy, nothing else is important.
Extra gear for me is piece of mind and confidence inspiring for long distance birding trips, even if the gear is used only once or twice a year you won't regret it when you are in the rare situation that you need it on a trip, a camo hide is a good example of something that might not be used much, but I wouldn't leave without it.
Well said
I really enjoy your videos Jan. You point out that Nikon has affordable primes now but not an affordable body to match it. Well, you should try out the Nikon Zf. Although it looks like a retro camera, its AF sytem is the same as in the Z8 and 9. FPS speed is lower, but I am really I impressed with the AF system. With the added Smallrig grip it feels really well. The programmability of the buttons is great, so I use the camera now as my main bird photography body.
14:12 I definitely prefer the original, just looks more natural. What a great image. 👌
Jan, you just must try the Z9 with the new 4.10 firmware which introduces bird subject detection. It's a totaly different experience from when you reviewed it in the past. I feel sure you will be very impressed.
I agree it’s a night and day difference
I’ll try and get one soon
Most impressive update,it’s ten steps forward,my Z9’s are on par or ahead of anything out there.Yes,I know,Sony and Canon will be on our heels but right now Nikon keeps upping the game with these continuing firmware updates.Not too bad considering the naysayers not a year ago were digging Nikons grave……sorry…..didn’t happen.
@@chipsrafferty8362 Yes Nikon Z8/9 are really great with the 180-600, 600 f6.3, 400 f4.5, 800 f6.3 but reality is that price wise it all sits in the top mid and high-priced bracket. If Nikon wants to own this market segment they need an APS-C Z500 with the Z8 specs and a Mid-Range FF Body like the Canon R6ii. Sony sold a lot of A9 and A9ii bodies with the 200-600, Nikon sold many D500's with 200-500 lenses. Past 3 weeks met number of Nikon users at the price point where the 180-600 fit budget, but they need to struggle along with a completely overpriced Z6ii. So their option to move to Z system is limited, Nikon users normally migrate to Sony and local stores tell me that with Black Friday events, frustrated Nikon users buy Sony A9ii with 200-600 or the Sony A7iv with 200-600. Even Fuji XH2s and 100-400 or 150-600 as they want the Mirrorless benefits. We even see significant increase in OM systems sales. The OM-1 is a mini A1/Z8 and the 100-400 or 300 f4 present a fantastic package, one of the best AF systems on the market with pin sharp lenses.
Is that firmware also available for Z8?
What matters most?
- Knowing the places for the species desired
- getting out there
- hoping for light and luck with the cooperative speciesman
Interesting discussion. Glad to hear the need for APS-C bodies, Canon and Nikon always had great APS-C bodies but both have left a big gap and Sad that Sony or Fuji could not step into this gap. I really feel Fuji missed a big opportunity with the XH2s, great camera but the AF still lags way behind and if the introduced a 150-400 f5.6 they could have made a strong run. But then there is OM Systems that introduced the OM-1 with the 150-400 f4.5 with build in TC plus the fantastic 300 f4 and 40-150 f2.8 more as a bigger animal wildlife lens. I know many frowns at MFT format but many underestimate the Ability of the OM-1. AF level on par with the Z8/9 if not better at initial focus acquisition and tracking is crazy. Lens sharpness and IQ is mind-blowing for that little system. With AI software noise is not an issue even at 12800. Pro Capture in RAW is a game changer and 50/60 fps is also top class. Price wise for top end gear the OM-1 is US$ 2300. So maybe photographers can find what they want in other systems? Like many of the full time OM or MFT professionals would say, it is interesting that part time photographers would argue with full time professionals that small sensor systems are not good enough for professional work. Travel light, shoot more. Great channel.
X-H2s autofocus definitely isn't perfect, but I wouldn't say it lags way behind the competition. I think Canon missed a huge opportunity by not putting a stacked sensor in the R7, or at least a sensor with a much faster readout speed
Jan, as much as I love my R7's, I agree we need a better R7. Come on Canon ! Just do it ! :)
I've only cursorily looked at the R7, but what do you think needs improving? Does it have two card slots, like my now dinosaurish 7D II? I'm sure it lacks some of the best and newer features of the R6 II.... For now, I'm happy with my one MILC, the R5, and 2 DSLR's. If the R5 II impresses as it likely will, I'll add it. Would prefer it over the R6 II, I'm sure... especially for the CF E card slot that it will have at least one of, and hopefully two
I am honoured to see my image getting featured in my favourite show!
Thank you so much ❤️🙏🏻😊
You both are inspiration for me and many others! 🙏🏻
Our pleasure!
Congratulations. Where does one submit one's images to Jan's Channel?
@@AnujRawlaVRRT #birdphotoshow in Instagram
Awesome Digu❤
@@jan_wegener Little confused. Do I just tag my photo with that hash tag?
One doesn’t NEED a second body but it is so convenient, because it just reduces the number of times I have to change lenses! And I can set up one camera to shoot a timelapse for instance or a long exposure while I can still set up the other camera for another composition or for hunting birds and not get bored waiting for that long exposure or timelapse etc. 😉
Hello Jan hello Glenn, thanky you for your videos that you share, love watching them.👍
Glad you like them!
Glenn, rent a 1.4x extender for your trip. Then if you don't owning something you use once.
Glenn you absolutely hit the nail right on the head Canon is just absolutely blowing it , they should have brought out like what you said a 500 F 5.6
and a 600 F 6.3 similar to what Nkkon has .
And Jan and you are right who wants to drag around a 600 F 4.0 ( I know I can't because I have a bad shoulder ) Besides what it would cost for a 600 F 4.0 .
Thanks Jan & Glenn, really enjoyed this awesome episode again with a great selection of images of your followers with good constructive remarks !
For me the ideal backup camera is my wife using her Sony RX10mIV, since I don't need to carry this gear and she made me jealous when my 100-500 was fogged out for nearly 2 days 😛
Nice episode guys. I like what Glenn say about the most important thing is go out and have fun birding. Regarding having a back up camera, I have a very simple Canon T7, but this body saved me on two trips and one of them was very far away. I went to do field work in Croatia and my 7D mk II stopped working in the middle of the trip. If I hadn't taken my T7 on the trip I would have stayed without taking photos for 3 days before returning to Brazil. This camera is extremely slow, but it saved me.
How to upgrade is always a difficult and expensive decision. I agree that a slow and incremental approach is the best way to go. I try to look at what I can't currently do and then look at my options on how to close that gap, and hopefully that's a matter of improving my skills as opposed to emptying my bank account.
I definitely agree on the need for a back up body. My main camera failed a couple of years ago and it was nice to have an alternative while I waited for the repair. Plus, its handy to have a second set up so I can take some landscape or macro shots, instead of changing lenses in the field.
Thanks for the discussion!
You two are just the best company in the world. I always expect to be laughing and there's a sense of excitement when I click on Jan and Glenn. The info and photos are such a bonus :)
Great to hear!
Yes, main thing is the fun in the field! Need and Want things must to be balanced, pro or hobbyist.
I think that the main thing in choosing gear when you are going to upgrade is to take something that will exclude frustration due to some disadvantages of the current gear (in the field... this moment is when you keep up with all the movements of a hunting sparrowhawk flying at you (in 1-2 meters away. So close. And good light) in a cool pose, but not your camera and lens. ahh, this pain. how often does this happen to me. But it's hard for me to buy something new, specifically knowing that it will infuriate me there ...)
Backup cameras is good think in trips. More hard thing is have not one telephoto lens... I know what cool pro photographers have 2-4 lenses, but If I have in trip any 2-3 lenses, I use only one what I prefer, so I don't want to have this extra weight... Buuuut what if my lens will broke in some ways... You see birds doing crazy things like hunting like in 2-4 meters away or not common bird and can't shoot all of them. So painful, so familiar (without total broken lens - because particularly broken is ok, use one and still like it) 😞
At about 5:00, you neglect to include the Tamron 150-600. I have had the G2 (Canon mount) since its release. Reviews peg it as very comparable to the Siggy Sport in image quality, but it is lighter in weight and on the wallet. I find it fine, but as I also have an EF 500 II and both RF and EF 70-200's, it doesn't get as much use as it did before I got the 500 a few years ago.
Well presented guys. Your editing discussions with the viewers images are very important for increasing the pleasure in bird photography perhaps more so that getting the best and more expensive gear. Glenn, I understand your hesitation to buy more gear, but I agree with Jan that a 1.4x is extremely versatile and useful piece of kit when an excellent previously owned copy can be had for a modest bag of loonies. As you two are attentive to return on investments (ROI), your viewers on tight budgets might appreciate hearing you discuss ROI advantages of m43 gear especially when the latest and greatest m43 bodies have really fast frame rates and continuous AF with good bird AI in low light. They can match or come close to the megapixels (and even dynamic range) of the R3 for a fraction of the price. De-noise post processing very much levels the low light issues too.
My last Canon dSLR was the 7D MK II along with the Sigma 150-600, Canon 100-400 MK II and the 300mm f/2.8. I liked that they had short min focus distance. I personally do not like fixed focal length lenses. I find them more limiting. The 500mm and above are way to pricey, too heavy and the 18+ feet min focus distance. My OM-1 and 150-400 f/4.5 combo is a great setup and very versatile combo. Too often, I am not able to move forward or backward because no space or will scare off the subject. Have the Pro Sets and the Brush pack.
Especially your honest opinions on gear subjects as well as on the shown photographies I like a lot !
Awesome
With modern lenses I value flexibility over image quality, at least to a degree. For example, if I had the choice between the Nikkor 180-600 and the the 600 PF, I would probably pick the 180-600.
Yes, the prime is sharper. It better be at that price difference. But the 180-600 is great as well while giving me a very useful range of focal lengths with the same maximum reach of 600mm.
For what I do it's the better lens.
If you mainly shoot at 600mm then the 600 PF is probably an absolute dream lens. As long as you can make the aperture work for you and if you don't care about more reach, you save 11.000 bucks or so compared to the 600 TC 😁
Jan, I love to see a in depth review from the Nikon 800/6,3 PF. Maybe in comparison with the Nikon 600/6,3 PF with tc 1.4?
Another great video!!! Glenn, why not rent another backup body, just a thought. 😉
like any technical hobby Jan, we'll always drool over the unattainable [gear]. I mean, I'd love a RF800f5.6, but $$$$$. A used 600f4 EF II is a better option (but still unattainable for me). Certainly better than my current 500f4 mark 1. That extra 140mm reach comes in handy more often than not imho, at least, based on my experiences with 700mm reach on a FF camera. It's about the same weight as my mark 1 500f4, but offers the full DPAF coverage on my R3, plus full FPS too (vs a maximum of 14fps in H+ and 9fps with H drive modes), sharper and much, much better IS. I'm not sure how IQ and AF are vs the mark 1 primes.
With all of that said, I have 2 options:
1. use my tax return to get the new RF200-800 and keep the mark 1 500f4 prime
2. sell the 500f4 prime and use my tax return to get a used mark 2 500f4 prime
I cannot afford a mark 2 600f4.
I am on a limited income, so, have to make do with what I can realistically achieve, and not what I want.
What would you suggest?
Thanks a lot Glen and dear Jan for great episode as well as photo choice; and, for helpful tips on it. Surely it will help with work process of my photos ❤
Glad it was helpful!
A great honor to be mentionned here 😊
Hi, good video. I took my 7dII with an EF 70-100 L lens to Antarctica and got some amazing shots so I’m sure you will be fine Glenn!
I typically carry an R6 Mk II these days with the RF 100-500 attached to it most of the time. I also carry the original EOS R which usually has my RF 24-105 f/4 attached to it. That pretty much has me covered for birds, landscape and wildlife. Also, I do pack the RF 14-35 & RF 70-200 f/4 as well. I don’t find it to be too heavy or awkward when using an appropriate camera back pack.
Nice set up!
Excellent topic Jan 😎👍
Glad you think so!
for those unware ...
RUclips is now blocking videos after 3 views if you have adblocker on your PC ...
I don't monetise any of the videos i've upload .. So why should i be forced into pay for ad free ..
It's ironic
Glen, you are nuts mate😳. These trips cost more than a second hand body. Take a cheaper full frame R second hand if you need it.........please? I cannot imagine what it would be like trying. to go back to 7D, never mind if you have some R lenses.........Sell the body the moment you get home.
An OM-1 with a 100-400mm would be an excellent starting point. Reach and and a proper working Pro Capture could be mind-blowing.
Thanks for sharing!
You NEED food, water, air to breathe, a roof over your head and clothes on your back. Everything else is a WANT. At least that's what my wife tells me!
Important topics address.. Great video
Glad you think so!
I shoot old gear, 7dII is my camera. I may buy the R5 II when it comes out if it is a nice up grade. Everyone is going mirrorless. Sounds like I will be in for a treat if I ever buy a mirrorless camera.
There's no if about it. MILC's are a huge upgrade. Still like using my 7D II..and 5D IV, though!
Cheap bird photography, canon zR7 and sigma ef mount 150-600 contemporary with ef-rf canon adapter. All purchased used, £1,600 apx all in....
As always, a great video guys. And the photos you chose was stunning too. I really hope that Canon will start filling the holes they have in their line up of lenses, with some lighter cheaper prime lenses like Nikon have done. Like the 800 and the 600. Amazing lenses for the price. Did test out the 800mm with the z9 when i was guiding some birdwatchers from Norway, here in Rio Grande do Sul in Brazil. And i have to say that it was an amazing lens/combo.
Wishing you a great week.
Cheers, Bjoern
Thanks for sharing!
What i would like is a
Protaable and compactable Brolly ( umbrella ) on a tripod . That i can carry easily whilst on my bike . To use out in the rain / Snow
I have seen such things in the past
I started bird and wildlife photography in 2020. I spent a lot of time researching lenses before deciding on and buying the Nikon 500mm 5.6 pf lens (and the FTZ adapter) on my Z6ii. The Z6ii is a disappointing subpar camera for birds and wildlife so I had to move backward, getting a D850 - while keeping the Z6ii and my Z mount trilogy lenses for other stuff. With the D850/500mm pf combo, I never looked back.
This past spring, I upgraded to the Z8 and, now confident with Nikons mirrorless AF, my next purchase will likely be the 800mm 6.3 pf.
While initially disappointed by Nikon, today I think their optics simply blow away Sony and Canon.
I also bought the OM1 as a compact travel and street photography camera but ended up getting the fantastic 150-400mm 4.5 TC lens, which gives equivalent reach of up to 1000mm. Unlike Glen, I’m a retiree with enough money and lots of time to indulge my hobby. So, between my great D850 and my alternative OM1, I have backup coming out of my ears.
Thanks for sharing!
Awesome guys!
Thank you
Thanks to the 2 of you for your insights here. Jan, given your expertise in editing bird photos, what do you think about the new lens blur feature in LRC? Specifically letting AI do some pixel wrangling to make the background a creamy blur rather than relying on the physics of a big f4 lens, or concern about the distance between the subject and background?? Kind regards.
Not my favourite approach, since it’s usually not perfect, especially with fine feathers and hairs, but I am sure it can be helpful at times at low levels
@@jan_wegener Thanks for your input!
Thanks so much for sharing another wonderful video like always, I really want a better lens for my camera I think I need to get better quality photos.
Thanks for watching!
I went to mirrorless for the AIAF but am frequently disappointed, small birds launch very quickly and the best image is often soft. Then the R5 does not like Sigma lenses. I bought a 5DsR to get more out of the Sigma lenses, that is incredible. The main problem with Canon mirrorless is that most lenses are very expensive, even the extenders are several hundred pounds. I bought a 100-400Lii because there was no way I could justify a 100-500, that give good results with the 2x, which I had already, only the RF lens and extender is £3.5k! Sorry, as a pensioner that sucks.
@blisteringbooks2428 Please elaborate.... I finally got my first Siggy lenses in over 25 years, for astro, primarily--the 28 and 35 ART's--1.4. They, of course, perform flawlessly on either my R5 or 5D IV.... or 7D II, I'm sure.
I’ll just stick with my Nikon D500 & 200-500.😁
Whenever I’m on a photography trip I always rent a second body!
I have the R5, R6, and 7D m2 but will be selling the 7D. Who won the competition you did 2 or 3 vlogs ago?
Good conversation...❤ waiting for R7 mk2 (just upgrade to stack sensor...plz 😢)
Stacked might be a while, but it would be great
I like my gear to be portable i might choose the 100-500mm RF + a 1.4x teleconverter instead of the newly announced 200-800mm RF on my R7 , what do you think?
Extender is really bad on the 100-500. Sure you can get good photos but its not nearly the same joy to use as without extender. I find 500mm to be enough in most scenarios so thats why I wont be getting the new lens and only struggle with extender when I absolutely need it. If I could choose now I would probably go with the 200-800mm just for that extra reach and no hazzle of extender ever again. Beware that I havent used the new lens so cant comment on other factors between the two.
In short, if you go with 100-500mm dont do it in hopes of using an extender with it. Rent it and if 500mm feels limiting then go with the 200-800mm instead.
Only looking at MTF charts, the 200-800mm should theoretically be better at the long end than a 100-500mm with 1.4 extender. The weight difference is "only" 300g.
The 200-800mm is a lot cheaper than the 100-500mm with extender and I like, the flexibility of the 200-800mm. I don't like changing lenses in the field. Its faster to turn the zoom ring and hassle free.
For a lightweight setup I have the RF 100-400mm on my R7. I love the setup. This lens realy is a killer for the price, at half the weight of the 100-500mm.
But consider the most likely supperior weather sealing on the 100-500mm. And think about what focal length u really need. If you just get into birding, than I can whole heartedly recommend the RF 100-400mm :)
I tend to agree. It's light for it's size, but the 200-800 looks like an ergonomic nightmare. Extended to 800mm it's very long. Handholding could be really awful. The zoom throw looks long too. And f9? Ugh.
@@Xirpzya very different experience to me.
I have used the RF1.4x on the 100-500 with great results in good light.
As long as the subject isn’t still tiny in the frame when the extender is attached, it’s quite easy to get fantastic results.
The RF 100-500mm is a beautiful lens and a 1,4 extender is great with it. Can't go wrong with that.
Glenn... are you *crazy*? If you're going to Antarctica every year, I can understand a little better if you only bring one lens and one camera that are compatible with each other. But, are you going there that often that you don't care if something goes really south with your camera? Are you bringing the 7D2 but not a lens? What's the use of that, there's no converter going that way as far as I know... So, you must also bring an EF lens, I assume.
I've have had 3 major trips destroyed due to camera catastrophies that wasn't possible to do anything about, and I didn't have compatible back-up, only "social" camera + lens. It's AWFUL!!! First time: Texas & Colorado in spring 1997, second time NW India 1998 and third (so far: the last) was in Brazil (Cristalino Jungle Lodge + Itatiaia NP). I repeat: it was *horribly* awful! For one who wants to take a photo of every bird species one sees (I know it's virtually impossible when there's a severe time limit, but it remains my goal. I don't care if it's a shitty image, I still want it!) the whole trips feels redundant in a way, when there's no decent camera around. Ugh! It's a fate I wouldn't whish on my worst enemy (of which I have none, as far as I know) and certainly not you... But, maybe you're on the trip doing a workshop, and would feel it's totally OK focusing on just learning everyone in the group to get wonderful photos of everything that shows up.
Still: maybe get a used R6ll as backup-body? That's o good one, but then you might "need" the extra reach by adding a x1,4 tc bcs of the low mp-count... Ho-hum... A used R7, maybe. Cheaper, small, and more mp plus the cropped sensor. I guess you've already considered all this and said "Nah, my reasoning stands." It makes my second-hand anxious-levels rise, I'll tell you. Jan's as well, I can tell. Ah well, we throw our hands in the air.
Hi how can i get a chance to be featiured?
We usually go through the images tagged #birdphotoshow on Insta
Looks like you had really fine weather at Saunders Island....landings there can often be marginal or just damned awful, either side of the spit.
How about renting a body just for the trip?
That would be another option for sure
19:43, I think a lot of the photos you guys suggest is subjective. Photography is a very subjective art and some like it, some don’t. Where you guys have your own style of editing and positioning of the photo, others might like it imperfect as it is. Again photography is very subjective, like the art display of a banana taped on to the wall with duct tape sold for a million bucks.
Of course and everyone should do what feels right for them
Glenn will shell out go to Antarctica, but won't buy a backup mirrorless body???? Even a crop sensor body??? Tsk, tsk, tsk.
That’s what I said 😉
👍🏾🙏🏾 🏴🇸🇪🇹🇹
Hi Jan and Glen. In terms of budget or middle option do you think micro 4/3 deserves an option. The OM-1 ( probably a Mk II not far away) and the soon to be released G9ii offer some pretty amazing capabilities. And with modern day Denoise software the boogeyman of low light limitations fades away a lot. Ok, not for pros maybe, but to get good resolution, high fps, good af options, reach and pre-capture in a light package. From this video and videos by others it seems that Nikon believes there is life after smartphones. Many options, lighter gear and better prices. And like Glen suggested, less need in the future for big, heavy expensive primes. Or are they aiming at baby boomers spending their children’s inheritance 😮
What do you mean by rumours @3:56? It is released already for few days!
We filmed this just before it was released
It maybe sound harsh to some, but every camera is a luxury item. Period. If you think otherwise you are entitled or were already born entitled. Nuff said.
Not if you are a pro photographer, but generally, sure