Nikon 500 PF Review

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  • Опубліковано 27 лип 2024
  • Check out my Nikon 500PF review and filed report. We'll look at all the aspects of the lens and I'll pass along some real-world tips and tricks for getting the most from it.
    Also, check out the associated blog post at my site:
    backcountrygallery.com?p=5712
    My Noise Reduction Video Series:
    backcountrygallery.com/noise-...
    Secrets To The Nikon AF System:
    backcountrygallery.com/secret...
    Secrets To Stunning Wildlife Photography:
    backcountrygallery.com/secret...
    em/
    Using Manual Mode + Auto ISO:
    backcountrygallery.com/manual...
    Why High ISO Doesn't Replace Fast Glass:
    backcountrygallery.com/amazin...

КОМЕНТАРІ • 581

  • @backcountrygallery
    @backcountrygallery  3 роки тому +7

    Have nature and wildlife photography questions? Check out the BCG Forums! Ask and answer gear and technique questions questions, post photos and more. Check it out and sign up today!
    bcgforums.com/index.php
    Bonus - I also post exclusive tips, tricks, and techniques to the forum you can't get anywhere else! Check it out!

    • @jiki776
      @jiki776 3 роки тому +1

      Hey Steve great review, could I have a link to the picture at 0:53 ? It is so beautiful and i'd love it as my wallpaper

    • @backcountrygallery
      @backcountrygallery  3 роки тому

      @@jiki776 Thanks! This should get you there:
      backcountrygallery.com/wp-content/uploads/sites/1/nggallery/north-america/posing-elk.jpg

    • @stevewidney627
      @stevewidney627 2 роки тому

      0

    • @johnvarghese785
      @johnvarghese785 2 роки тому

      I use a 200-500 lens, was thinking of a prime. Any comparison done between 500 f4 FL VR ED vs 500pf,. 500pf is cheaper and weigh less, but still we need to put out money. Was thinking if matches heavier prime

  • @JMHSPhoto
    @JMHSPhoto 5 років тому +26

    You'll never find more informative and real breakdowns than from Steve. Thanks for all you do Steve.

  • @billmoyer3254
    @billmoyer3254 5 років тому +18

    Steve, you set the bar high with your reviews, thank you!

  • @Narwaro
    @Narwaro 5 років тому +52

    You are definitely the most sane photography UA-camr out there and I am genuinely excited when you post a new video, knowing there will be objective insights and thoughts no-one else gives.

  • @Gman1044
    @Gman1044 Рік тому +3

    Steve's definitely the man for a no nonsense, clear and unbiased review. Thanks for all the work you do for the photo community.

  • @MrDjlavor
    @MrDjlavor 5 років тому +2

    This is the best online review I've yet found on this lens. Fantastic. Thanks for producing such an exhaustive review on it.

  • @keithmacdonald4805
    @keithmacdonald4805 5 років тому +4

    One of the best reviews that I have ever seen on a lens. Actually in the field use and not just a lab review. My next lens and thanks for such a great job.

  • @MrBdouche
    @MrBdouche 5 років тому

    I have no problem waiting a while for his videos because every time there is a video of him, its pure gold. They are all filled with very useful information.

  • @DonAplas
    @DonAplas 4 роки тому +9

    Bought this Lens due to this Video, absolutely amazing, all insights and tips are so appreciated. Thank you so much Steve! I carry along many things you say into my photography.

  • @estevangarcia9499
    @estevangarcia9499 5 років тому +2

    What an incredible and thorough review. So much work put into it!! I need to watch this more than once.

  • @jamessingleton9159
    @jamessingleton9159 5 років тому +6

    Your reviews are so thorough and at the same time not full of useless information.

  • @krishchandran4125
    @krishchandran4125 5 років тому

    This is by far the best review I have seen of the 500mm PF. Thanks Steve, for the "practical - in the field " approach. I hugely appreciate it.

  • @archkjgalvo
    @archkjgalvo 5 років тому

    At last! I have been waiting for this as I'm planning to have it. Thanks a bunch, Steve! Your work are always my inspirations in my wildlife photography journey.

  • @kilohotel6750
    @kilohotel6750 5 років тому +50

    Definitely the best wildlife photography reviewer on UA-cam. I don’t shoot Nikon but love your videos for the technic that applies to photography in general.

  • @desertrat1
    @desertrat1 5 років тому +2

    Like all his reviews, this one is clear, concise, and backed up by data. I appreciate how Steve cuts through marketing hype and psdeo-expertise flooding the internet photography space. You get essential information in a brilliantly summarized format. I'll get this lens based on this review as a companion to my Nikkor 200-500mm.

  • @russellmurphy7109
    @russellmurphy7109 5 років тому

    Intelligent, informative & above all impartial- gets my subscribe EVERY time! Congratulations on a fantastic review Steve!

  • @woodygreen6826
    @woodygreen6826 5 років тому +5

    Interestingly, the most helpful part of the video for me was rethinking where the autofocus point actually is when using VR. Thanks for another thorough review, Steve!

  • @johnsholian4318
    @johnsholian4318 5 років тому +2

    Great honest and thorough review Steve! If I hadn’t already purchased the 200-500, I would consider saving up for the 500 but for the kind of shooting I do and my budget, it doesn’t make sense right now. Appreciate the time and effort spent on the comparisons. Very helpful.

  • @paulhills1967
    @paulhills1967 5 років тому +3

    Excellent work Steve. Thank you for such a comprehensive review.

  • @jacobl6572
    @jacobl6572 5 років тому +3

    Great review, I love the all details, real life shooting issues and including the construction.

  • @BermyBwoy
    @BermyBwoy 5 років тому

    LOVE YOU SO MUCH!! Thanks for taking the time to properly test this masterpiece.

  • @EricHarmon67
    @EricHarmon67 5 років тому +8

    Awesome review as per usual, Steve. I never used to be a fan of prime lenses (maybe I'm just lazy!) but I love my 300PF, and now I want Santa to bring me a 500PF! As you know, I have some difficulties with camera weight, and I think this would be an awesome addition to my lens collection (especially for RV travels!!)

  • @albert3316
    @albert3316 5 років тому

    The one review I was so impatient to see! From the most reliable source on youtube👌 Let’s get started👌

  • @alexwesterhof793
    @alexwesterhof793 5 років тому

    ..and again a great review, Thanks Steve. Also the remarks between the lines about VR and its behavior are very welcome. And ofcourse the comparison between the Nikon optics is so valuable.
    Bought both books and the vids aswell… not only for the info but for support as well.
    Keep up the good work.

  • @thedarkwolef
    @thedarkwolef 5 років тому +11

    The images of the fox were absolutely stunning!

  • @DanC
    @DanC 5 років тому +3

    Thanks for the update on this lens Steve!

  • @sebastienlecalvez4369
    @sebastienlecalvez4369 5 років тому

    You deserve every view, follower and subscriber you have. Amazing review Steve, your hard work pays off and is greatly appreciated.

  • @richardkatz61
    @richardkatz61 4 роки тому

    Informative and practical review. Love the enthusiasm you have in all your reviews.

  • @julioperez3908
    @julioperez3908 4 роки тому +2

    Thanks so much for a well considered, detailed review with rational recommendations for several styles of shooting.

  • @philliphendon4991
    @philliphendon4991 Рік тому

    I found this review while looking for information on the 500pf. You literally answered every question I had. Thanks Steve. Well done!

  • @Thom_S
    @Thom_S 5 років тому

    I enjoy your reviews - thorough and informative. Top shelf review here once again.

  • @2012Rustan
    @2012Rustan 3 роки тому +1

    Gran trabajo Steve! La capacidad cognitiva, conocimiento, experiencia, síntesis y facilidad del lenguaje para explicar el contenido hace que esta revisión sea muy completa y agradable de escuchar. Saludos desde Chile.

  • @2othor
    @2othor 5 років тому

    Steve, thanks for a great review and detailed information with fantastic samples. As usual your reviews are just at the very top for wildlife gear reviews. I plan to add this lens to my 300/4 PF as a light weight kit covering 300-420-500-700mm.
    Regarding the foot it has the same problem as the 70-200/2.8 FL foot, where a inside pin sometimes prevent it from been tightened enough with the tripod collar lock screw. If owners doesn't get a replacement foot from Kirk or RRS, they should check frequently, if the foot is locked down by pressing the tripod collar lock release knob in and check if the foot can move.

  • @abhijnanchaturvedi8234
    @abhijnanchaturvedi8234 Рік тому

    Thank you Steve for this detailed video
    Love your delivery style, making things so clear

  • @freddyacosta2358
    @freddyacosta2358 3 роки тому

    YOU ROCK, STEVE! I love your videos. Thank you for the time to make these videos!

  • @ShakyasomMajumder
    @ShakyasomMajumder 5 років тому +3

    Awesome review as usual. Amazing photographs as well!!

  • @TheReillyDiefenbach
    @TheReillyDiefenbach 5 років тому

    Outstanding work as usual, Steve!

  • @NikonJax
    @NikonJax 2 роки тому

    Just picked up a used 500PF. Can't wait to give it a field test. Shared this with friends. Love your videos Steve!

  • @brianminkc
    @brianminkc 5 років тому

    I really like your video's Steve. I have been watching them for quite some time. Your tips are very helpful and your good at teaching them. I especially liked over the years the one on the back focus button and the one on auto-iso in manual mode. Thanks buddy.

  • @Capcity44
    @Capcity44 5 років тому +1

    Thanks for this thorough review Steve. I really liked how you pointed out out its strengths & weaknesses - especially the different shooters' needs in mind. My 500 F4 is heavy, and I honestly don't use it much because I hate all the gyrations I have to go through in order to use it. This lens could make the 300 PF and 500 F4 expendable.

  • @andrewgaffney4881
    @andrewgaffney4881 3 роки тому

    I read your AF book and have used back button focus since. No more losing focus when I try to recompose, and no more headaches. Great advice,

  • @dbhayesart331
    @dbhayesart331 5 років тому +1

    Superb comparisons Steve. Exactly what I was hoping for since I plan to get my hands on a 500mm PF F5.6 ASAP to couple with my D850.
    Thank you for the video. Bill & Deb

  • @timphillips3873
    @timphillips3873 5 років тому

    Thank you for the segment on VR. I also experience the VR focus point reset and consequently losing my focus point on my 200-500. This is so helpful.

  • @kevinlohman707
    @kevinlohman707 5 років тому

    Steve - Awesome review. I can’t wait to get my 500 PF. Well, I guess I can since I have been waiting over 2 months already. Keep up the great work!

  • @GeorgeGiGi21
    @GeorgeGiGi21 5 років тому +7

    as always, one review(er) to rule them all. Super detailed and informative. Thanks Steve

  • @richcower
    @richcower 5 років тому

    Great review Steve. Thanks for doing this work for us.

  • @MrDjlavor
    @MrDjlavor 5 років тому

    Excellent review! Very helpful. Thanks for producing it.

  • @TheBenjaminBrowning
    @TheBenjaminBrowning Рік тому

    I’m happy to see you also use manual with auto ISO! I discovered that I could do this and it’s been a game changer in the amount of keeper photos.

  • @thomascampbell3223
    @thomascampbell3223 5 років тому

    Great video Steve. I was considering this lens for wildlife. Love the noise reduction video course. Keep up the good work.

  • @todabrilla
    @todabrilla 5 років тому

    I've been looking forward to seeing more reviews of this lens! Thanks, Steve.

  • @garystarnes5178
    @garystarnes5178 5 років тому

    Great review and beautiful images Steve! Thanks!

  • @quicktastic
    @quicktastic 5 років тому

    Nice to hear someone mention this 'jumping around' of the subject after taking a shot. I'm especially interested to hear that this is the VR causing this as I have been thinking it was my inability to hold steady even though I felt I was not moving at all. My experience with this is with the 200-500 and the D850/D810. Thank you for another great analysis Steve.

  • @christosphillips3568
    @christosphillips3568 5 років тому +1

    Steve Thank you so very much for going the extra mile man we all appreciate the labor that goes into these tests and the uploads all together, I finally opted to go with a mint condition 300 f 2.8 VR 2 instead + TC, also came in a hair cheaper, what tip the scale for me was the F5.6 aperture, I just can't live with it.PERIOD........ I so much wish it was an f4.!!!

    • @backcountrygallery
      @backcountrygallery  5 років тому +2

      I totally get it - I was using my D5 a lot more than I normally do to help with the ISOs. I was also a bit more conservative than I like with SS on some of the shots. However, the size and weight of the lens make it very "deployable" and fast to use in the field. It's nice to have both, but I'd pick fast glass over it if I could only have one or the other. No question.

  • @JimMontanus
    @JimMontanus 4 роки тому

    Excellent review, thank you. Best videos I've seen on UA-cam to date.

  • @georgefourlaris7948
    @georgefourlaris7948 5 років тому

    Steve that was a great review.. thanks so much for the effort. Can't wait for my lens to arrive..

  • @JohanSchmidt
    @JohanSchmidt 5 років тому

    Besides the quality of the images, I can't image how you manage to track down all these animals - wonderful!

  • @joshjspice
    @joshjspice 3 роки тому +1

    Another excellent in-depth review with stunning imagery. That coyote portrait - wow 👏

  • @MrChrisjharris
    @MrChrisjharris 5 років тому

    Great review as always, Steve. Thank you. I'm a D500, 300PF and 200-500 owner with an itchy trigger finger for this upgrade. It looks as though this could finally be a good candidate for bridging the cost gulf between the 200-500 and the 500 f/4.

  • @phooesnax
    @phooesnax 5 років тому

    Great review Steve! Love the new noise tracking videos too. Excellent!
    Jim

  • @jayanta21sinha
    @jayanta21sinha Рік тому

    Your site is my one stop shop for all photography information. Thank you

  • @frederikboving
    @frederikboving 3 роки тому

    Wow! Packed with good information and lots of experience and tests! There should be more youtubers like you!

  • @BobG-eh5fc
    @BobG-eh5fc 5 років тому +1

    Excellent video as always. Purchased your noise reduction video..... EXCELLENT, highly recommend. I'm a novice and learned a great deal.

  • @sousup123
    @sousup123 5 років тому

    Great review as always Steve. Got your email yesterday about the updated version of your book. Thanks a lot 😊

  • @jazzdanne
    @jazzdanne 5 років тому

    You're the best Steve! :) I can watch your videos over and over again.

  • @ibhelleswildlife
    @ibhelleswildlife 5 років тому +1

    Great test Steve! Thanks a lot for doing this! I have been shooting with this lens for a week and are really happy with it and it replaced my 200-500 MM. As you point out, the great advance with this lens, is you are much more free to go handheld!

    • @matthewbell1968
      @matthewbell1968 4 роки тому

      Sir, how would you rate it against the 200-500 in terms of IQ and AF responsiveness? It's an extra $3000 and I'm not sure! Many thanks Matt

  • @roberthennessey5702
    @roberthennessey5702 2 роки тому

    Awesome review on this 500pf. We are headed to Yellowstone this Sept., I’m 71 and the weight is a major factor in hand holding. Your review pushed me towards this lens I think the pros out weigh the cons for me. Thanks again for the awesome and professional review Steve.

  • @SaurabhBeedkar
    @SaurabhBeedkar 5 років тому

    Very informative video, facts presented with great clarity! I'll look forward to other content created by you. Thanks

  • @jordank1633
    @jordank1633 3 роки тому +3

    To fix the subject isolation problem, you can put the photo in Lightroom and use the brush tool to individually edit the photo to isolate the subject more.... you can do this by lowering clarity, texture, and sharpness....

  • @erikvdlooy6515
    @erikvdlooy6515 3 роки тому

    Great video Steve, thank you very much for the valuable information! I was doubting between the 500PF and 300PF on my D850...but I'm convinced now to go for the 500mm, this takes me over that line. Many many thanks!! (great video just as all the other ones, I subscribed on backcountrygallery and bought me some books so I have reading material for the coming weeks (we're just in lockdown so plenty of time now). Again... many thanks for sharing your knowledge and experience!!

  • @fotoman1527
    @fotoman1527 5 років тому

    Another excellent review. Thanks Steve.

  • @minusinfinity6974
    @minusinfinity6974 5 років тому

    I'm hoping to get this as a Xmas present for my D500. Great work as usual Steve.

  • @gatsby498
    @gatsby498 5 років тому

    Very helpful, thorough review. Thank you.

  • @JaminTaylor
    @JaminTaylor 5 років тому

    Thanks for doing this Steve. Great review.

  • @sharadsridhar1460
    @sharadsridhar1460 4 роки тому +1

    Wow Steve. First time watching a review by you. You have a new fan!! Really. Wow. Am soo tempted to switch to Nikon for this lens just based on your review..

  • @loganhall5580
    @loganhall5580 3 роки тому

    Your number of subscribers, views, and likes are an order of magnitude lower than what your quality of videos would suggest. This is phenomenal content; I've watched this video alone probably a dozen times and it was a major deciding factor in my upgrade from the 200-500 to the 500mm PF. Thank you for this content! Keep it up!

  • @captandy34449
    @captandy34449 5 років тому

    All great info! Thank you for all the good work.

  • @shang-hsienyang1284
    @shang-hsienyang1284 5 років тому

    Thank you for this highly technical and informative video.

  • @beapa121
    @beapa121 5 років тому +1

    you always make the best reviews jaja.
    greetings from Chile!

  • @ushanastrivedi368
    @ushanastrivedi368 5 років тому +1

    Steve, amazing content as usual. Your reviews are so rational, real & unbiased which looks quite simple thing to do but the fact is very few UA-cam reviewers come close to covering these aspects so simply & elaborately. Thanks for your efforts. Just to draw your attention that some reviews of Z7 suggest that AF capabilities of ML with TC at f8 & slower is much better than DSLR & it makes sense since AF sensors are on image sensor receiving full light through lens & not partial deflected through mirror. I guess all sensors would also function at f8 & slower. In that case, this focus & recompose issue with TC May vanish if used on Mirrorless with FTZ adapter. Such light optic also goes hand in hand with light & compact ML bodies. I am aware that 1st generation Nikon ML are not ready for prime time when it comes Wildlife, Sports & fast action but future is definitely bright & promising.

    • @backcountrygallery
      @backcountrygallery  5 років тому +1

      Yup, I don't think F/8 - or even slower - will be a bit problem for mirrorless. Just waiting for a higher-end Z series camera :)

  • @lizsouthworth6688
    @lizsouthworth6688 4 роки тому

    Thanks Steve, your videos and books are first rate!

  • @BillFerris
    @BillFerris 5 років тому +4

    Another thorough, objective, practical and outstanding review, Steve. Thank you!
    If I might suggest, an interesting topic for a future video might be a discussion of, with all the available options (from consumer zooms to exotic primes) of long focal length lenses, what are the use cases where a wildlife photographer might be best served by one lens over another?

    • @backcountrygallery
      @backcountrygallery  5 років тому +1

      Good topic idea - thanks so much :) My default is to say just grab. 600 F/4 but it's not always perfect, that's for sure.

  • @stanpiper8158
    @stanpiper8158 2 роки тому

    Superb review. It answered the few remaining questions I had and then some. The acuity visuals were especially helpful. Thank you. I viewed this some time ago and returned before ordering. I will mount it on my D850. That image of you standing there with the lens collar foot in your hand made a lasting impression. I often use a shoulder sling with my zoom lens with a bolted footplate and tether. Still, I only rarely let go of it completely with my hand. :)

  • @x4g1706
    @x4g1706 2 роки тому

    Buying one for my Z9. Thanks for the quality review which gives confidence to pull the trigger to buy. I am presuming some of the AF features of the Z9 will more than compensate with some of the issues you identified in this video over 3 years ago.

  • @shekatagani
    @shekatagani 5 років тому

    Nice video Steve and great info I have a 600/4 a 200-500 and I want this one for a walk around lens. I often use the 200-500 for that but sometimes the slow AF just does not cut it! As you say it will be a great addition.

  • @ShaneBaker
    @ShaneBaker 5 років тому

    Very useful review (as expected). Thanks Steve.

  • @maxsanseb
    @maxsanseb 5 років тому +3

    Great review and thanks for bringing the "foot quick-release defect" to our attention. Incidentally, I was birding in Colombia last week and I managed to drop the 500 mm + D850 onto a rock. Brand new and now both are marred :( Despite the drop, I am still a Nikon enthusiast. Best, Max

  • @leroy5007
    @leroy5007 5 років тому

    Thank you for the review. Another enjoyable video

  • @carolelabrecque2799
    @carolelabrecque2799 5 років тому

    Your videos are ALWAYS very good!

  • @Mojomo777
    @Mojomo777 5 років тому

    Thank you for sharing many Nikon things, I appreciate this so much.
    I have been following you channel for some time, I subscribed today.
    By the way, I did “thumbs up” before I finished watching. 😀

  • @2906rick
    @2906rick 5 років тому +1

    Awesome Video Steve!! You always produce top notch video! Lots of good information and right to the point!! I can't see why someone would downvote!! A+++

  • @pierrederumine1295
    @pierrederumine1295 4 роки тому

    Hi, Just received my new 500 PF, your review is very useful and saves a lot of time getting used to the new lens.

  • @alfredmullner5495
    @alfredmullner5495 5 років тому +1

    Great as always! Love your videos, waiting for the next one...😉
    Still waiting for a 5,6/600mm PF....

  • @georgk255
    @georgk255 5 років тому +1

    Great review Steve. I use 90% of the time my 500 f4 FL which I love. It is light enough for hand holding Imo and works with the teleconverter well. Only if I have to travel very light I use 300 PF with 1.4 TC but I not really enjoy it. I photograph birds and 99% of the time I need more reach, did not consider 200-500 for this reason.

  • @paulpugh6178
    @paulpugh6178 3 роки тому

    Excellent piece of work 👏👏👏 just purchased two ebooks and two lightroom video tutorials as a thankyou for the info in this superb instructional video... I own the 200-500 and WAS undecided on the 600 F4 or the 500 pf... I will be going with the 600mm as after watching this I feel this will allow me more flexibility alongside my 200-500. Thanks so much 👍 money well spent Steve... thanks for the like btw

  • @rickmorris9024
    @rickmorris9024 4 роки тому

    Thanks Steve, a great detailed review!

  • @vincentvanz.6072
    @vincentvanz.6072 5 років тому

    The video I was waiting for. Thanks!

  • @garfieldirwin
    @garfieldirwin 5 років тому +1

    Excellent review Steve! Really, really well done (as usual)! The 500PF is one sweet lens, but as primarily a birder I'm leaning towards complimenting my 600E and with the 500E -- f4 is much better for BIF and with the TC14EIII deliver a super-sharp 700mm at a still-respectable @f5.6. I think the 500PF makes more sense for mammals.

  • @anthonyc1883
    @anthonyc1883 5 років тому +1

    More excellent content. Thanks, Steve.

  • @1barnet1
    @1barnet1 5 років тому +1

    Great real world review with scientific testing added in as a bonus.
    Really really well done!
    That Nikon argueably made the best handheld wild-life lens on the market helps though.

  • @theyetiinoz1478
    @theyetiinoz1478 5 років тому

    Great review, thanks Steve.