What is a Great Bird Photography Rig?
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- Опубліковано 7 вер 2024
- There is a huge upswing in the popularity of wildlife photography, specifically bird photography in the past months. I'm constantly being asked what I feel is a great camera/lens for bird photography. Without a doubt, I feel the Z 6II & 500PF are it. I created this video though to provide a bit more of an in-depth answer to the question than just this. I hope it helps your bird photography! To learn more about the gear I use and how as well more about wildlife photography, please head to my website moosepeterson.com
Using the Z6ll with the 200-400 f/4 + 1.4tc + FTZ. Also use the same on the D500 for up to 840mm reach.
Perfect timing Moose and a super video 👍 just had my 500PF delivered from our friends at Gray’s of Westminster and couldn’t be happier 😀😀
such a great store ... have fun ... cheers!
Thanks for the video, Moose. I've been using the Z6ii with this 500 pf lens for birding for a few months now. It's such a light combination when you're out hiking around. At first, it was frustrating to get used to the autofocus, but once I dialed it in, my keeper rate has been good enough to put the D500 back into its case. I haven't used it with the 1.4 as yet, thinking it might be too slow to autofocus, but I'll take your word for it and try it out today! Keep the videos coming!
Thank you so much Moose. I ordered my 500PF for use with my D850 for birding. I can’t wait for it to get here. We met years ago during a talk you gave at the Poppy preserve in so cal.. ever since I’ve always gone to your channels when researching since your work is the proof of your mastery of photography". So many arm chair you tube content creators out there. But you are the real “Boss”
Great ... you're going to love the lens. Thanks so much for the kind words. All the best!
I so wish canon would offer this lens!! I have a shooting buddy who uses this lens and I’m always telling him how I wish canon would produce a 500mm f/5.6. Love your work Moose, thank you for sharing your knowledge!!!!!
I hear ya, had a client switch to Nikon just because of this lens. Appreciate your kind words and for watching!
Just ordered mine! My Z6ii is ready to meet its new friend (:
Thanks Moose. This is terrific information. I love the suggestion of the F mount 1.4 teleconverter model III attached to the 500 PF lens. That's quite a set-up for bird and wildlife photography. I did not know there are extension tubes for the Z mount. That's very interesting information I'll have to look into. Once more, thanks for all your reviews and advice. 👍📷👀😎
thanks for watching and the kind words!
I’m not sure I can afford to watch you anymore Moose…
I have the Z 6ii but haven’t gone birding yet. Next season here in south Florida I’ll give it a go. Hoping for the 100-400 by then but if not this is certainly an option!
Im still using my ole D500 and the Nikon 200-500mm
Fabulous with the D500 too!
Moose, that's a really great kit scenario for birders. I offer an alternative one, for the incidental birders. Z 7ii + Z 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S + Z Teleconverter TC-2x. The "7" does away with the fuzzy filter (AKA AA or low-pass) over the sensor and the Z/S zooms are at prime quality level. The 2x TC fives you 400/5.6 and cropping to DX cuts that to the effect of 600. And it avoids all the adapters with its very close closest focusing distance. If you never tried this, then Nikon USA should let you play with this configuration for a month or so. Use Nikon NX Studio (free) to raw process, or in Lightroom (LR) make sure to adapt the "detail" sliders (or the selected raw processing profile), or else the "7" files could get you 'color noise' (pixel-level seemingly chaotic Moiré) from its raw processing (*). If it's about the burden of weight, then note that the "6" and "7" are the same weight and the zoom is lighter than the relatively very light 500PF. If you never shot raw files at "7" resolution, note that their file size is much bigger than the 6's and LR's preview processing relates to your horizontal display resolution. With 2 displays of 4K resolution (7,680 pixels) I needed a computer with loads of RAM, video RAM and processing power to be able to run (a) LR and (b) something else next to that (on W10, a 9th gen i7 with 16GB RAM and 4GB video RAM crashed all the time - on my 10th gen i7 workstation with 64GB RAM and 11GB video RAM and a couple full SSD RAID arrays, "the sky is the limit"). If we expect 2x the resolution from 2x the megapixels, then we are fooled, but we do get 2x the load on our processing and file storage. Resolution follows "linear" lines and we need to compare "6" and "7" edge resolution numbers to find out that the "7" has 40% more resolving power potentially at the sensor level. The removal of the fuzzy filter adds a bit of contour sharpness and it makes depth of field a bit shallower, provided our lenses can reveal that. Note that "7" color space and dynamic range are a bit better than the 6's, except high ISO is a bit less.
That said, my experience with Nikon 24 mega photosite cameras is that they are very good - with Nikon glass. When we blow images up, missing bits are invented in the software we use between the raw file and the display or the raw file and the printer. How good the blown-up image looks is to large extent a function of the software we use. Some 3rd party app may do that "upsampling" better than what we normally use. DxO have PureRAW now that integrates nicely with LR and Topaz have a couple apps that work very well. These may give better - in your perception - blown-up results than Lr/Ps. Or, in this scenario, my offering the 7 primarily is for the DX resolution it gives you.
(*) AA or low pass filters disperse a bit of light traveling to the sensor's photosite [x,y] across its neighbors. This is a simple way to make raw processing (RGB color guessing) easier. Remove that fuzzy filter from the camera and color guessing needs to be done differently in software. The guessing is always mathematically precise and repeatable, but very crude. It can create Moiré - that's what we call it when we recognize it - but it also creates low level "noise" that is not "the fault of the camera". So, from the D800E, Nikon has had cameras without that fuzzy filter and these need a slightly different raw processing algorithm than the others. The idea is that the increased resolution reduces uncertainty about the assignment of hypothesized RGB to [x,y] where the data in the raw file for [x,y] only has one of R, G or B. The raw file only has monochrome data and that's where the 14 bits are - after raw processing the 14 have become 9 (in the best cameras with 9+9+9=27 bits color space). That's marginally better than the 8+8+8=24 of JPEG, but we have decided how to take the 9+9+9 out of the 14+14+14 instead of the in-camera raw processing that generates JPEGs.
Don't need that fancy stuff. Just look at photos printed in the top nature magazines in the last few years. I would say the photos in those mags were, are outstanding.
1 DS mk2, D850, D5, 5Dmk4, mk3 and a host of dslr and film cameras. They all turn out killer photos.
Shhhh. Don't say that. Nikon want to sell cameras, anything other than the nearest gear and you won't get that shot 😂 I assume Moose is sponsored by Nikon though, he's promoted them for a while.
I love my 500mm PF I can’t recommend this lens highly enough.
The Nikon d850 with the battery grip paired to my Sigma 500mm f4 sport. The results are fantastic. I also use the Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 which I also get great results.
How do you like the 200-500? I just bought the Z6 ii and currently has to be satisfied with the 70-300 I already have. Although Moose has really convinced me about the 500PF but at this point I will not be able to spend CAN $4700.00! Do you think it's a good idea to get the 200-500 now instead? How happy are you using it in bird/wildlife photography? Yesterday, I went to a bird farm to photograph Bluebirds and I really wished I had a longer lens!! Thanks!
@@street_biologist6727 the Nikon 200-500mm f5.6 is a great lens.
I have both the 200-500 and 500 PF along with the D500 and Z7ll. The 200-500 sits on the shelf. I use the 500 PF and 1.4 TC on both bodies exclusively.
@@lcador9 sorry, but the 500mm pf is not $2K better than the 200-500F5.6, and it's still a f5.6 lens. The 200-500F5.6 also gives you the versatility that the 500mm pf can't. I understand you are trying to justify your purchase.
I use the 500 PF on the Nikon D6 body. 3D-autofocus works well for birds-in-flight. Have not tried to add the 1.4 or 1.7 teleconverter. Am happy with the outcome as is. Also fine on the Z7... waiting for the Z9. Cheers from Aus.
A pretty clear endorsement.. thanks for sharing
I don't know about that ... just trying to answer the question as thoroughly as I can from my wheelhouse :-)
@@MoosePeterson it was meant to come across as positive. rig looks great, but I bet the results are as well. No another wheelhouse i'd rather listen to on these matters.
I not sponsored , this lens is amazing.
Hi Moose , very enjoyable video , i see your last video was 7 months ago and that's ok , sure hope all is well and you're doing fine .
thanks for the kinds words and thoughts. All well, just way behind in getting video up. Promise, will do shortly
I fricken love the 500mm pf!!!
Looks an epic lens for birding, given the PF design, weight and length. Still waiting for Nikon to produce the promised Z 200-600mm lens; although I guess that will be bigger & heavier if it's the traditional design. I predict it will be similar to the Sony 200-600mm with an F6.3 max aperture at the tele end and will cost around $2,000.
Love my Olympus EM1X with the 300mm F4 and 40-150 F2.8. The bird tracking feature is pretty sweet when shooting the Eagles around here. Plus it is a small light kit.
where can we see examples of your bird photography?
Great video
Love my 500pf....but I actually prefer it on the D500 over my Z6.
I find the D500 is so much better to use my Tamron 150-600mm g2 lens on. I have problems with the AF on the Z6II. its updated but still doesn't work like the D500.
Hi Moose! Miss you!!
right back at you my friend!
Did you try the Nikon P1000 with its incredible stabilisation and extreme reach ?
I shot it at its release party only, not a tool that would compliment my current kit.
@@MoosePeterson -Thank you for the reply and info. Good shooting!
Thank you Moose for this video
I have the Z6ii and 500pf, love the rendition of this lens!
Tried extension tubes on some sparrows, I found it hard to gain initial focus with the tubes on. Any tips would be much appreciated!
That 500PF lens is absolutely a workhorse! Though cannot say same for the Z6 II. It's not as good as you say. It's not for "action" photography with it's current focusing problems. D500 beats Z6 II in bird photography in every way. When Nikon manage to fix the Z6 II auto-focus problems, then it's suitable for more than "portrait" photography. Z6 II video features are much better than any other Nikon DSLR could offer.
sorry you're having issues! I've used it on aircraft to criters and had nothing but D6 AF performance. Those I shoot with using the same Z 6II have the same great performance.
Hi I have seen several u tube reviews on this lens comparing it to existing z lenses eg 180-600 and 100-400 the reviewers note much better colour rendition and contrast and bokeh on z lenses. Was considering this lens but not sure now. Can u comment please.
I regret I don't do any kind of testing when it comes to color or contrast for many reasons, the main one is Nikon's standard keeps that constant. I HIGHLY recommend to all to RENT before buying and find your own answers for your own photography :-)
Love the 500pf, but I don't like where the have the focus limiter set. I wish it could be customized.
I have the z6 ii with the 500pf. Not quite enough reach for small birds. Wish the 1.4 tele was the solution but all the research I’ve done tells me a good crop frame camera will give me much sharper images. Unfortunately both are out of stock everywhere so I can’t get either.
I would encourage to do other research as many including myself as you can see in the video have no issue with image size with Z 6II
I have seen a lot of your amazing videos, why are you so over sharpened to the unreal degree? what are you videoing with?
I have the Nikon Z6, the autofocus didn't seem that big of an issue after the last firmware. I shoot with the D500 which I love for sports... If I am doing Bird Photography and spending this much on lenses, I better be making money taking shots. ;) LOL
I'm wondering why the Z6 II, over the Z7 II? Isn't there more pixel density in the Z7 II so you could crop more, or is there an advantage on the Z6 II that outweighs it?
I'm simply not a maga pixel shooter, that's all. You can use the Z 7II with the same great results
I'm looking for a tele-zoom lens for my D750. What should I buy?
1. Nikon 200-500
2. Tamron 150-600 G2
3. Sigma 60-600
Of those three, the nikkor is the best. Amazingly sharp and the VR is great. Only downside is the weight. I actually use mine as a makeshift macro because it focuses so close.
I’ve used that lens on the little Z50 with the 1.7 teleconverter to give me 1275mm @ F9.5 and believe it or not it still auto focused, got some great shots with that combo.
how cool is that! Great to hear.
Hi Moose! Can you comment on how the 500 PF compares to the new 100-400 z lens? I’d love to see a comparison video!
IMHO Z100-400 is a tad sharper but with its closer focusing hands down a better option
hi im a severely sight impaired/blind photograper and i recently got a nikon z7 with 24-200 but im in process of choosing a wildlife lens and not sure what to go for i was looking at the 300mm f4 pf or the 70-200 with 2x converter either sigma or nikon but have recently been recommended the sigma 100-400 andd the nikon 200-500 if i had the budget ud be getting the 500 pf any siggestions be greatly appreciated
This video is to answer the question you and so many ask. If it doesn't for you which is more than possible, you'll need to find the right answer for you.
This lens is a Tack Sharp Lens !
I've got the 300pf and a Kenko 1.4X PRO 300. I'm very happy with it. Does your opinion stay the same for the 300pf, except of course for the extra 200mm?
Also, have you put together a table of lens, teleconverter, extension tube combo for reference?
The 300PF is a great lens, owned since the first day it was released. This video though is darn simple, just answering a very common question with my $.02, that's all . Folks need to use what they feel works for their photography. I'm just trying to simply answer a question the best I can. :-)
would you recommend that to shoot wildlife and to photograph planes at an airshow? I currently have a Z6II with Tamron g2 150-600mm and D500. I wanted to wait to get the Z 200-600mm but this video might make me change my mind. What mode do you use to shoot birds flying? I'm having problems photographing birds (ducks, blue heron, Osprey) with the Z6II due to it being blurry or its not sharp enough. The AF mode is having difficulty tracking the birds. Maybe its the low light or I am hand holding it. I've increased it to Auto ISO and shot in S mode around 1/1600-1/2000. Thanks for the help in advance, I enjoy learning from your videos.
Howdy! Not really sure what you're asking but if its using the 500PF at an airshow, you could do that but it would not be my preference. I highly recommend heading to my website where there are tons of answers to your questions.
@@MoosePeterson okay thank you
Hi Moose, can I ask which eye cup you have attached to your camera here? I'm looking for one myself but not sure what to go for. Many thanks
yep, you'll find all the info for it on my website :-)
@@MoosePeterson thanks Moose, I’ll check it out
I got the 500PF to go on my D500 but once I attached it to the Z6ii I sold the D500. After two years of hard use I notice the focus is making noise, any thoughts? I'm using the 1.4 TC also.
Really ... sold the D500 ... very cool! Noise in the focusing can be the smallest of foreign particles, very, very tight tolerance. I would send it in for service. Thanks for sharing!
Hi Mr. Peterson long time follower of you books and videos. Have you done any tutorials on filming (video) of wildlife? Thanks.
Howdy ... thanks, I have not
Hey Moose, Great video full of info. I have the same set up, but.... I have notice that the VR is always running all the time even with the camera in sleep mode. I can't find how to stop it. Do you have any ideas? Sayin' Hey..... Greg
Heyya ... thanks for watching. I just noticed that on my friends 500PF ... no clue what that's about, sorry.
@@MoosePeterson Hey Moose, I thought maybe it was something with the lens, I tried my 70- 200 2.8 and it does the same thing. Thank you for getting back to me. Greg
D500 would be a lot better. Now that the Z9 is out the Z9 with that lens is better. Z6ii focus is too slow for general birds because it’s a bit too slow for BIF. Great IQ but so slow.
How would this lense perform on a D700 with its 12mp...
great, why would changing a body change lens performance?
Which brand of extension tube sir
whatever brand you think are best ... I don't have a specific one, just got what popped up on amazon first
@@MoosePeterson thank you so much
Would you recommend upgrading from z6 to z6ii for birding? Thanks
yes I would, the improvement in AF performance is enough of a reason to me to spend the money. I love my Z 6II!
I’ve tried everything and my favourite (and in the end I purchased it) is the 800mm f5.6e, it’s truly spectacular. But to be fair this 500mm PF is a great little lens
Over a year of shoothing pf500 I have To say it is just great. I Also have tc-elll but I can't recommend any one To use it with pf500. With tc you simply can't get top quality out, you loose so much sharpness that I choose crop over tc:s. D850 and pf500 is my set up for birds. All the best
Toni
Sorry to hear you're having issues, but it's not the TC-14eIII that's causing a loss of image quality.
Did you try the 500 PF with your D5? ... thoughts compared to the z6ii...
I've shot it on the D5, D6 & Z 6II ... Z 6II out performs the D5
What would be your recommendation for a Sony equivalent?
since I don's shoot anything other than Nikon, I'm sorry, I know of none I can recommend with first hand knowledge
α1 if you can afford it, plus 100-400GM or 200-600G!
With all the higher MP cameras 24.5 MP is still considered enough?
that all depends on what you're doing with the image
Using proper software and techniques 24.5 can do great things. The files can be, when done right enlarged greatly. Editor even use this file size for their mags.
Even a cell camera can do awesome stuff.
Enlaging cellphone photo vid.
ua-cam.com/video/h2Td5CbcBRw/v-deo.html
Normally the lower MP count is for cameras who can shoot huge volumes of shots continously for sports and action and focus very fast. The higher MP cameras are a bit slower and more for studio portraits, landscapes etc. Both types will do both styles with ease through.
How would it do with a DX body?
like it would work on any body, FX, DX, DSLR or Mirrorless
I don't know that I'd want to get any more closer than 6-9 feet from a bear in the wild, a Moose perhaps! Just kidding, hey did you ever get that shot of a White Breasted Nuthatch going down a tree? This setup may very well be the best...the worst would be a D7200 with the Tamron 150-600! Actually I've gotten some pretty good images with them. All perched mind you!
thanks for watching ... yes, many times ... fun to watch and photograph
Hi Moose, Thanks for the video and recommendation. I purchased the 500 pf a couple of months ago and finally had a chance to shoot it for 3 days last weekend. Try as I might though, I could not get the photos tack sharp unless I used my tripod. It is attached to my D850. I tried everything I could think of i.e. shutter speeds to 2500, etc. I bought the lens for handheld BIF photography, but no luck yet. I can't even get the stills sharp! Have been shooting nikons since 1972, have had numerous cameras and lens and never had this problem. Any ideas? Are the pictures you showing handheld?
handheld - tripod, I get the same sharpness. I recommend you watch and practice the sharpness techniques all described in my sharpens series here on my channel.
@@MoosePeterson Thanks Moose! I have watched all of your sharpness series. A couple of excellent pointers for me to pursue, eye piece, engine off .... Time for practice. Best!!
@@dougjones3666 thank you!
I am using this lens with D6 and D850 and the 1.4x TC is useless
No thank you on the old 500PF. I'll wait for the 500 Z lens. If it is like all the other Z lenses, it will be superior to the F mount lens!
You're gonna have hard time getting good shots with a non-existent lens today. Better to shoot on an "inferior" lens today rather than a "superior" lens at an unknown future date.
@@thisisbenji90 patience is a virtue. And prudence is even better!
Hate to see any one miss out on taking images, especially waiting for a lens no on the Z roadmap.
@@gosman949 and missed photographs are forever!