i bought a D500+200-500f/5.6 back in 2017 new, and have never regretted it. I’d love eye-AF, full-frame, and a boost from 10fps to maybe 20fps… but it is amazing how well it holds up today. Neat to see it being a recommended combo
I’ve been watching these videos for a number of years. In fact, I bought my first DSLR (Canon T6i) largely on the strength of a video review you did. I bought the book, learned a lot from it, and have added a 6D M2 to my collection. Just wanted to say thanks for all the help and inspiration through the years.
I'm just back from a safari trip to Tanzania where the luggage weight limit was 15 kg. For weight reasons, my wildlife camera was a lightweight (1.5 lb) Panasonic Lumix FZ300 bridge camera, which has a built-in f/2.8 25-600mm full-frame equivalent zoom, and it took plenty of amazing shots. The sensor is only 12 mp, but that was enough for good resolution in just about all the situations I encountered. The Nikon P900 and Canon SX60 are similar bridge cameras with much longer zooms. In many situations having top-of-the-line gear with the very best features is not nearly as important as convenience and versatility.
It is actually a pity that micro 4/3 systems were not covered in this comparison. They may certainly have disadvantages, but especially for wildlife photography they have some great advantages.
I believe MFT is actually on the mid end of this comparison. The G9 and the 100-400 mk1 maybe you can get for 1500-1600 (used)? But for something really crazy, the G9ii and the 100-400 mkii is like 2500 (used). So it's not necessarily a great value nor a rip off. Probably why it's forgotten. I own a G9ii and a 50-200 Leica.
I have the Sony a1 and the 200-600mm lens as well as the 70-200 MK II. I love this setup for wildlife near and far. Thanks to the two of you for your continued excellent work.
Pair the Z9 with the 800 PF and you've got an $11K kit (both are often discounted by $500) that neither Canon nor Sony can match without paying thousands more. The 800 PF has the reach and is an excellent low-light lens; surpassed only by the 400mm f/2.8 and 600mm f/4.
I would probably never drop $20K on a camera setup, but that Nikon z9 and 600mm pairing is next-level! Oh, and that 5DS R -500mm combo was a killer back in the DSLR days. That camera was such a shot across the bow to the entire camera industry from Canon and a far cry from the "R1 is really just an R3 Mark II" Canon of today.
I still use a 7D mark ii for birds. I have a 5D4 which is great for weddings and portraits, but it can’t capture hummingbirds as well as the 7D2. Someday I’ll go mirrorless (R6ii looks great!), but I’m a cheap guy! Thank you two.
The Z9 is amazing, I just spent 3 months in Africa with one and it was brilliant.... I did not have one of those mega-tc lenses (I'd like the 400mm 2.8 personally), just the 100-400, but it was a lot lighter and having the zoom is very nice. You could also get the 180-600 which people say is excellent. It have very good video features as well if you need 8k etc.
Micro four thirds deserves a mention. It is a high quality camera system that (1) many can afford and (2) people are more likely to be able to carry with them because it isn’t too heavy!
It's neither. Compared to APS-C, especially APS-C DSLRs, it's poor quality and overpriced. MFT is a rip off aimed at gullible people who believe that shrinking the sensor gives the lens magic powers. There's no MFT camera + lens combo that doesn't have an APS-C or full frame alternative that's either cheaper, or better, or both.
@@TonyAndChelsea Thank you and yes indeed I am aware you have some other videos which examine MFT including in wildlife applications. I am an admirer of your work. 👍🙂
Surprised you didn’t have the Sony Rx10 iv…surprisingly good performance, roughly 24-600 mm equivalent and weather resistant! No it’s not FF, but I’ve been amazed at what it can do! Under $1700 and weighs under 1.1 kg. Hey, just realized you didn’t have the OM1! A previous video had it slightly above an R7 and equivalent lens, although the R7 did well! You had some great photos here!
@@youknowwho9247 A G9ii is "lower quality" than a geriatric FF DSLR? Right... Can't expect much from someone crawling through the comment section and dropping unsubstantiated criticism on a whole format.
@@AoyagiAichou This is about quality of results, which is what matters. The G9 II is 25 mpix and offers two stops worse low light performance and subject isolation compared to any FF DSLR from the last 10 years. It's also very overpriced for what it does.
The OM-1 has superb autofocus features for wildlife, including continuous tracking and bird and animal subject detection, and can deliver 80 mp in high resolution mode. Available lenses include a 150-600mm zoom, which equals 300-1200mm full-frame equivalent. A 2x teleconverter can bring that up to a maximum 2400mm.
There are still so many photographers with the RX10IV out there, I think for an all in one solution it still should be mentioned. Especially with the new IA denoise possibilities, this camera is now more interesting than before.
It's a great combo if you have too much money and want to waste it on sub par gear. Ten grand for 20 mpix at 800mm f/9 full frame equivalent has to be the worst deal in the history of cameras. 😂
But bu but but m4/3 is dead haven’t you got the memo. It died years ago. Shot with Sony a9 and 200-600. Then tried the om-1 with 300mm f4. The 200-600mm was sold shorty after getting the om-1 300mm. End of the day I routinely came home with more keepers from the oly.
I tried KEH. They may be interesting for US residents but not for other countries because of shipping cost + not giving top rating even if your gear is still in the original box with original packaging and accessories, barely ever used, in brand-new condition so... Great video as always, but KEH has to do much more on shipping cost for non US residents + properly evaluate and rate the gear you want to sell... Until then, they won't have my business
I use the Sony A1 and A7RV with the 200-600. I find the A7RV Bird Eye AF focus more reliable, but the 30 fps on the A1 is really nice too. I often struggle with which to take with me.
I love you guys ! I have been following you guys since back in 2014 ! The recommendations are solid. I am a Canon shooter but don't shoot Wildlife . I am heavily vested in Canon Glass. I am with you guys , Sony and Nikon are ahead of t he game in Wildlife while Canon has the edge in Sports ! As I get older I find that in photography ,find your niche , you can't shoot everything unless you are professional . For me it's cars, Architecture and landscapes!
Have you guys ever done a video on recommendations for video and photo editing computers, especially laptops? Preferred software too, and maybe some tips and tricks for editing with it. I’d be curious what you use, what works, and maybe some options at various budgets. I usually see Macs in your videos, but I wonder if that’s actually what you use. Thanks!
Hey Tony and Chelsea , I laughed so hard when Chelsea asked “ And how many times have you reported birds ?” And Tony immediately said “ never “ !! I broke down laughing !! Love Tony’s honesty !! Both of you are wonderful together !! As for who is funnier i lean towards Chelsea !!! Haha !! Huge Respect from 🇨🇦!!
Chelsea, if you are starting to experience Arthritis in your hands the best thing you can do is cut back on your refined sugar intake as much as is possible. Refined sugar is so quickly digested and sent into the blood stream that it causes a cascade of hormonal reactions that lead to Inflammation. It's this inflammation that is a leading cause for Arthritis. Back in 2021 when staying over Christmas with my nephew and his wife she noticed I had a pretty bad sweet tooth. BTW, she is an NP and smart as a whip. Anyhow she sat me down for a talk about the effects of Refined Sugar and convinced me to cut back on that sweet tooth. As a result Arthritis in the radial head of both wrists and in the basal joint of both thumbs that once was so painful I had difficulty signing a pay check has gone to being totally pain free today. In addition the Trigger Finger in the middle finger of both hands has almost disappeared. Something most doctors will state that is not possible without surgery. I also have to agree with you about the AF system in your Sony, it is amazing and I don't even own a Sony A1. What I have is a RX100VII which features an AF system based on the A9 and A1 system. BTW, this camera is going to my sister, because it just won't do for her to do a tour of Scotland with just an Iphone 12 to take pictures with. This Sony blows the AF on my Z7 II into the weeds so far you would need a 2000mm Reflex Nikkor to find it. BTW that do you call it when you mount a mirror lens to a mirrorless camera? A Mirrorless Mirror?
I loved this video, especially how you seduced me from spending a few hundred dollars to finally at the end $20K for the Z9 and Z 600 TC!!! I know I now have to sell my classic sports car, but the Z9 and 600 TC will hold up better in the next few decades. :)
You two are BRILLIANT. Fantastic video, which featured 2 of my cameras. But no mention of the best lens in the world .........(for the price) the Sigma 60/600 mm sport? Landscape! wildlife! waterproof! and unless your printing or pixel peeping sharp.........enough. Thanks for posting.
Nikon, it's a matter of time, will develop a reliable AF and increase its frame rates. I still prefer Nikon's files to Canon's and Sony's, but Chelsea, I hear you, the Sony system is more reliable (at the time of my comment) and definitely lighter. And that matters a lot with wildlife. But Tony's also right that the built-in TC is a game changer...going from 600 to 840 in a nanosecond is indeed a game changer. And the glass is optically superb! (after an endless number of patch-ups with the Z9, I think the better bet is to wait for the Z9 II at this point... always invest in the glass first, anyway).
Very well done! It is especially relevant to consider used gear as well as new products for today's audiences who are concerned about getting their money's worth.
Thanks a lot for the recommendations. I still have a huge question, how do do guys transport each of those lenses? I mean a smaller lens will probably live on a backpack, but as they get bigger, do they come with their own cases? and even if they come on their cases, do you guys have a preferred setup? (Specially when traveling on a commercial airline. )
I use a Sony A7iii with a Sigma 60-600mm lense. It's such a versatile lense and the camera is very affordable considering the features packed in. I bought mine used for $1200, although these days you can get one new for the same price at B&H. Someday I might get the A7iv when the price drops far enough, but that day is a ways away.
I will highly recommend the Sony A7RV with the Sigma 500mm 5.6 DG DN OS Sports ! I can also recommend the Sony A7RIII, Sony A7RIV and Sony A7RIVA. With these Cameras you can use the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM Lens and crop to a equivalent Lens of 300/400mm without problems !
Latest Sony cameras can do GPS tagging Tony!! You need to have the Creators' App on your phone with your camera registered in it. They latch to each other automatically even with the camera off. It all works like a charm with my a6700 and a phone without the i 😜. Here is my super light setup: a6700 + SEL70350G = 1192 g = 2.63 lb. I don't think one can go lighter for similar picture quality, reach and autofocus.
I’m using Sony A9ii+200-600 for wildlife 👌🏻 Sometimes even with 2xTC for video (+heavy duty Benro HH100av tripod). I would not recommend 2xTC for stills, but for video it is actually pretty good 👌🏻
Hey Tony, Chelsea how about testing the Canon RF 200-800 mm? Then you can say “And we’ve literally tested them all“ without crossing your fingers behind your back. 😉
I dunno, I’m an RF shooter now, and must say I’m perplexed by how slow their telephotos are. f/6.3 - f/9 just seems ridiculous. And these f/11 lenses they’re pushing, and even the bread and butter 100-400 is a 5.6 - 8, compared to everybody else’s, including Canon’s EF being 4.5 - 5.6. You can’t tell me it’s for any reason other than cost-cutting. And before you point out there is a 100-500, it too is a very slow f/7.1 on the long end, which for a cool $2700, seems a little lame. Why, even in this video you refer to Nikon’s fantastic 200-500 f/5.6 that costs $1500 less. Anyway, I really don’t get what Canon is doing with their telephotos. It’s probably why so many people are still adapting EF glass to their R bodies. Nikon and Sony shooters have far more options.
@@TonyAndChelseayou know in the uk I could get a ‘grey’ lens in less than a week and for about £880 less. Perhaps you should make an exception in this case.
@@jordancook1668 if you’re an RF shooter now perhaps you should’ve researched these lenses before you changed to whatever your camera is. The fact is that these are very good lenses and this is testified to by many many reviews on the Internet. You can use higher ISOs these days. I suspect the reason for these slow lenses is actually to reduce size.
Cool - the Nikon Z TC primes are such a game changer! Personally I chose the 400mm f/2.8 TC but that's more to do with the scenarios I find myself shooting in..
I'm sure you have your reasons, but I was hoping to see where you think the higher end Canon products fit in. Including a mention of the Canon R5 Mark II, with the RF 600-f/4 or RF 800-f/5.6 would have been welcomed.
I use a Lumix G85 + Lumix 100-400 (probably $1200 now total?) which gives me an effective 200-800mm and weights half of any these kits and is weather sealed. Works great! Also, y’all never mention low light usage - that Canon 800F11 has got to be terrible at dawn/dusk when all the wildlife is out (i know my Lumix isn’t great then either). That should be mentioned.
Love my Z8 for wildlife and landscape, paired with the 100-400 it's amazing. I will eventually get a 180-600 down the line for that little bit of extra reach and a 14-24 for landscaping, but as is I don't think it gets any better for the MP count and other video features. I don't think I'll be upgrading any time soon.
Hi, you forgot to mention one more camera gear. So what about Pentax K-3 III paired with excellent lens HD Pentax-D FA 150-450mm f/4.5-5.6 ED DC AW. ? That combo is worth considering too. This lens is providing amazing quality much more better that many other brand has to offer. Paired with.the new autofocus of K-3 III can provide you more than the decent results too.
Great Video!, unfortunately, I can't say anything about Sony Cameras because I've never used one, however, I do have the Nikon Z9 and Z8 with the Z 400mm 2.8 Tc, and the Z 180-600mm Lens, and have to be honest, I would find it hard (Not Impossible) to top those Len when it come to Wild Life, the Z 400 is an absolute Beast, especially when you add an additional external Tele-Converter to either of the Lens, It's also possible that I'm bias, I absolutely love the Nikon Cameras 🙂
I want to start off by saying I love your channel. Thanks for all the training videos. I've learned a ton. I was wondering if i could ask a question. I am a man with limited funds so i just bought a Nikon D7100. Tony, I watched your D7100 tutorial and you said that the Sigma 18-35mm F/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens is the sharpest lens that you can buy for this camera. I've got a nikkor 35mm and a 50mm lens. Im also looking at the Nikkor AF 80-400mm F4.5-5.6 D VR ED. which lens would you buy first? thanks
Do the Nikon dslr lenses (600 mm FL) work well with the Mirrorless cameras while using the adapter? Is there a huge advantage to using the Z lenses with the mirrorless cameras? Nikon is having a sale and used dslr lens prices are also decreasing nicely. Not so nice if you want to sell them though. Would I regret buying a dslr 800 mm on sale or even used to use with something like the Z9 or even Z8? But also with my D500 and D850. The main reason I would consider a mirrorless camera is because of the eye detection for birds in flight.
What are you guys using to record? In the A1 section, the focus kept pulsing and even loss you guys a few times. For what you guys do, seems very weird…
I work on raptors that soars quite high. Until now I have used P950 for its zoom. I want to upgrade to mirrorless to capture birds in flight more effectively. Any suggestions which one would be ideal? I'm thinking about sony a6700 + sigma 60-600.
Hi Tony. Iuse the canon R5 and because I am heavely invested in the rf lenses already, it is difficult to change systems. However...I primarely shoot wildlife....with a lot of bird Photography included in my passion for photography. Videos has become more and more important. I wanted to purchase the R5 ii as a compliment for video purposes. I did however see that some say the 4k 60 and 4k 29 is dissapointing inn the sharpness catagory. Please help us out with a comparison video with whatever you suggest....Nikon Z8 or a Sony hybrid as here where I live, there is no Camera dealers where one can rent one to do tests ourselves. thanks
I’m an A1 shooter and do use a FE 200-600mm but looking either for more reach or lower lens weight so actually considering the 300mm GM with 2.X TC. Do wish Sony would come up with smaller lens with nice reach. I have no plans to spend $12,000 on a lens. Maybe half of that at most. Take care.
I have a question, well two really. First is for Chelsea, a while back the two of you did a review/comparison video and Chelsea was reviewing a Nikon Z-FC mirrorless camera. I like the nostalgic looks of it and am contemplating purchasing a used one and was wondering if it's a capable camera for shooting birds and how does the autofocus work with the auto eye detect feature? My second question is where have all the birds gone? Cheers!
Personally I think a used Sony A9 with the 200-600 or the 100-400+ 1x4 teleconverter gives you the best all round combi. The latter being nearly a Kilo lighter especially if your doing a lot of trecking..
I enjoy your videos but, I don't see any micro four thirds gear on your channel. Iy is light enough to go hiking in the wilderness without the photo gear wearing me out due to it's weight & it takes some great shots.
The Nikon Z9 and this lens is what the Astronauts use on the ISS. Nothing but the best for our Astronauts. It looks like our tax dollars were not waisted on expensive toilets this time. ❤
Fun video! But the reality is photographers like Mark Smith have gotten great photos (better than most people) on the d500 paired with the 200-500. When I get consistently great results that equal Marks photos from 5 years ago, I'll move on. I will move on to another Nikon camera because it would cost thousands - maybe 10K to replace my Nikon glass. Switching manufacturers is only realistic if you're making 100% of your living from them. I only work 1/2 time as a photographer so it doesn't have the pay back to switch. I can't tell you how much money I've made using non-pro cameras!
here is a fantasy Lens that i have in mind that Sony should make for us. 100-400mm F2.8 GM with a inbuilt 1.5X tele converter. it will be a summary of several lenses like 70-200 F2.8, 300mm F2.8, 400mm F2.8, 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 and 200-600mm F5.6-6.3.
🤭 I jumped on a brand new Tamron 150-600/f5-6.3 G2 USD from Japan last may => 780euros unbeatable - Complements my Sony 70-400/4-5.6 G ssm that I use for my than 1 year now.
Hey, folks! Great content. I have a question about Nikon primes. Are there any differences in sharpness between 500 f/4 and 600 f/4 other than the "extra reach"? It looks like the price of the 500 has dropped a lot more than that of the 600 and I couldn't find a comparison. As for the video, my one feedback is that the jump from $200 to $900 felt too steep. I'd consider a $500 recomendation to mend the gap.
It‘s funny that you still prefer the a1 over the Nikon Z9 because of the AF performance. I’m shooting with the a9 III in parallel. Compared to the a1 the a9 III is so much better. This maybe shows that the Nikon Z8/Z9 AF isn’t already competitive anymore compared to Sony and Canon.
They got the small sensor superzooms out of the way so quick if you blink you miss it. It reminded me of a kid who barely chews and quickly swallows a vegetable he doesn't like so he doesn't taste it and can then move on to some icecream.
The Nikon D500 is a very good camera, combined with a 200-500mm f5.6 lens, very good…… HOWEVER, many of us who did buy the 200-500mm were basically buying a lottery, because of the difference in performance of this lens. Example, 5 x people who bought this lens 2 x copies were good, 1 x copy would be crap, and the other 2x copies quite average in performance !!!!! Even when the lens was adjusted in the calibration option in the camera, it still performed average. The lens has issues at the 200mm end and the 500mm end. Typical performance for a zoom, however the inconsistencies at the various focal lengths were quite noticeable. Buyer beware, make sure you test the lens extensively before committing to it. Just my 2cents worth guys.
I've owned 2 copies of the 200-500 both were very sharp with good contrast in nice light, However they lost contrast and sharpness in flat light and actually looked pretty bad. this is the main difference between a consumer zoom and Exotic Prime, you can shoot the prime in rubbish lighting conditions and images still retain very good levels of detail and contrast.
I also have the Nikkor 600mm f4 prime. For wildlife and action sport (longer distances of course) really nice 👍 but heavy, hence my exploration of the 200-500mm.
µft cameras are definitely missing in your comparison. Some of them are very much tailored for wildlife photography, with great water sealing, stabilisation and animal detection. Even though the image quality is often criticised it is still good enough to do the job.
i bought a D500+200-500f/5.6 back in 2017 new, and have never regretted it. I’d love eye-AF, full-frame, and a boost from 10fps to maybe 20fps… but it is amazing how well it holds up today. Neat to see it being a recommended combo
I'm using the same setup, and I find I can hang with a z8 surprisingly well, as far as AF and overall photo quality.
Tony got me giggle at the end with the setup for 20k when he said "you can save a few bucks on sd cards with Nikon" 😄
Me too, like whoever dumps 20k into the body and lens will definitely not care about the price of the memory cards LOL
I’ve been watching these videos for a number of years. In fact, I bought my first DSLR (Canon T6i) largely on the strength of a video review you did.
I bought the book, learned a lot from it, and have added a 6D M2 to my collection.
Just wanted to say thanks for all the help and inspiration through the years.
You forgot to mention the cuddle factor of each lens. Nothing beats my Z9 and 600mm TC!
I'm just back from a safari trip to Tanzania where the luggage weight limit was 15 kg. For weight reasons, my wildlife camera was a lightweight (1.5 lb) Panasonic Lumix FZ300 bridge camera, which has a built-in f/2.8 25-600mm full-frame equivalent zoom, and it took plenty of amazing shots. The sensor is only 12 mp, but that was enough for good resolution in just about all the situations I encountered. The Nikon P900 and Canon SX60 are similar bridge cameras with much longer zooms. In many situations having top-of-the-line gear with the very best features is not nearly as important as convenience and versatility.
It is actually a pity that micro 4/3 systems were not covered in this comparison. They may certainly have disadvantages, but especially for wildlife photography they have some great advantages.
Many of my bird photographer friends swear by the OM1 Mk2 so, totally agreed 😊
I believe MFT is actually on the mid end of this comparison. The G9 and the 100-400 mk1 maybe you can get for 1500-1600 (used)? But for something really crazy, the G9ii and the 100-400 mkii is like 2500 (used). So it's not necessarily a great value nor a rip off. Probably why it's forgotten. I own a G9ii and a 50-200 Leica.
I have the Sony a1 and the 200-600mm lens as well as the 70-200 MK II. I love this setup for wildlife near and far. Thanks to the two of you for your continued excellent work.
I love my Z9 with 180-600 lens for wildlife.
Z8 similar and 1000 dollars less give or take
Pair the Z9 with the 800 PF and you've got an $11K kit (both are often discounted by $500) that neither Canon nor Sony can match without paying thousands more. The 800 PF has the reach and is an excellent low-light lens; surpassed only by the 400mm f/2.8 and 600mm f/4.
That was the combo I took to Yellowstone a couple of months ago and it worked great! The z-mount 800mm is SO much lighter than the f-mount one!
LOL I have my om+1 for 1600 USD new and 300 f4 pro with tc 1.4x for extra 1700 - I'm happy with current denoise software for sure !
I love Chelsea’s comments on Sony A1 and helping distressed bird ❤😂
I would probably never drop $20K on a camera setup, but that Nikon z9 and 600mm pairing is next-level! Oh, and that 5DS R -500mm combo was a killer back in the DSLR days. That camera was such a shot across the bow to the entire camera industry from Canon and a far cry from the "R1 is really just an R3 Mark II" Canon of today.
I still use a 7D mark ii for birds. I have a 5D4 which is great for weddings and portraits, but it can’t capture hummingbirds as well as the 7D2. Someday I’ll go mirrorless (R6ii looks great!), but I’m a cheap guy! Thank you two.
7Dii is a great wildlife camera!
The Z9 is amazing, I just spent 3 months in Africa with one and it was brilliant.... I did not have one of those mega-tc lenses (I'd like the 400mm 2.8 personally), just the 100-400, but it was a lot lighter and having the zoom is very nice. You could also get the 180-600 which people say is excellent. It have very good video features as well if you need 8k etc.
Most people are not using $20,000 in equipment driving a 180k Porsche to take pictures at the park.
Bless you Tony for supporting the Z9👍
Micro four thirds deserves a mention. It is a high quality camera system that (1) many can afford and (2) people are more likely to be able to carry with them because it isn’t too heavy!
It's neither. Compared to APS-C, especially APS-C DSLRs, it's poor quality and overpriced. MFT is a rip off aimed at gullible people who believe that shrinking the sensor gives the lens magic powers. There's no MFT camera + lens combo that doesn't have an APS-C or full frame alternative that's either cheaper, or better, or both.
Search our channel for "wildlife zooms" to see our extensive testing of the latest MFT gear.
@@TonyAndChelsea Thank you and yes indeed I am aware you have some other videos which examine MFT including in wildlife applications.
I am an admirer of your work. 👍🙂
@@youknowwho9247heh. You know the story about opinions.
Micro four thirds 👎💩
Surprised you didn’t have the Sony Rx10 iv…surprisingly good performance, roughly 24-600 mm equivalent and weather resistant! No it’s not FF, but I’ve been amazed at what it can do! Under $1700 and weighs under 1.1 kg. Hey, just realized you didn’t have the OM1! A previous video had it slightly above an R7 and equivalent lens, although the R7 did well! You had some great photos here!
I guess M4/3 is the red head step child to tony and chelsea...
Why would they mention it? It's lower quality and higher cost compared to APS-C and full frame.
@@youknowwho9247 A G9ii is "lower quality" than a geriatric FF DSLR? Right... Can't expect much from someone crawling through the comment section and dropping unsubstantiated criticism on a whole format.
@@AoyagiAichou This is about quality of results, which is what matters. The G9 II is 25 mpix and offers two stops worse low light performance and subject isolation compared to any FF DSLR from the last 10 years. It's also very overpriced for what it does.
@@youknowwho9247 It's always a specs sheet warrior, not someone *actually* interested in actual results. Oh well.
The OM-1 has superb autofocus features for wildlife, including continuous tracking and bird and animal subject detection, and can deliver 80 mp in high resolution mode. Available lenses include a 150-600mm zoom, which equals 300-1200mm full-frame equivalent. A 2x teleconverter can bring that up to a maximum 2400mm.
There are still so many photographers with the RX10IV out there, I think for an all in one solution it still should be mentioned. Especially with the new IA denoise possibilities, this camera is now more interesting than before.
Nikon D500 with their 300 or 500mm PF. Best budget combo out there.
I love my om-1 with the zuiko 150-400mm f4.5
It's a great combo if you have too much money and want to waste it on sub par gear. Ten grand for 20 mpix at 800mm f/9 full frame equivalent has to be the worst deal in the history of cameras. 😂
@@youknowwho9247 f9 only in relation to Background blur regarding light capturing its 4.5.
But bu but but m4/3 is dead haven’t you got the memo. It died years ago. Shot with Sony a9 and 200-600. Then tried the om-1 with 300mm f4. The 200-600mm was sold shorty after getting the om-1 300mm. End of the day I routinely came home with more keepers from the oly.
I tried KEH. They may be interesting for US residents but not for other countries because of shipping cost + not giving top rating even if your gear is still in the original box with original packaging and accessories, barely ever used, in brand-new condition so... Great video as always, but KEH has to do much more on shipping cost for non US residents + properly evaluate and rate the gear you want to sell... Until then, they won't have my business
I use the Sony A1 and A7RV with the 200-600. I find the A7RV Bird Eye AF focus more reliable, but the 30 fps on the A1 is really nice too. I often struggle with which to take with me.
I love you guys ! I have been following you guys since back in 2014 ! The recommendations are solid. I am a Canon shooter but don't shoot Wildlife . I am heavily vested in Canon Glass. I am with you guys , Sony and Nikon are ahead of t he game in Wildlife while Canon has the edge in Sports ! As I get older I find that in photography ,find your niche , you can't shoot everything unless you are professional . For me it's cars, Architecture and landscapes!
Your videos are excellent- and I dont often comment - but thank you for all your help and keeping it real
I appreciate that!
This is great! Very informative and entertaining. I loved the banter and the outtakes too 😂
Have you guys ever done a video on recommendations for video and photo editing computers, especially laptops? Preferred software too, and maybe some tips and tricks for editing with it. I’d be curious what you use, what works, and maybe some options at various budgets. I usually see Macs in your videos, but I wonder if that’s actually what you use. Thanks!
Hey Tony and Chelsea , I laughed so hard when Chelsea asked “ And how many times have you reported birds ?” And Tony immediately said “ never “ !! I broke down laughing !! Love Tony’s honesty !! Both of you are wonderful together !! As for who is funnier i lean towards Chelsea !!! Haha !! Huge Respect from 🇨🇦!!
Chelsea, if you are starting to experience Arthritis in your hands the best thing you can do is cut back on your refined sugar intake as much as is possible. Refined sugar is so quickly digested and sent into the blood stream that it causes a cascade of hormonal reactions that lead to Inflammation. It's this inflammation that is a leading cause for Arthritis. Back in 2021 when staying over Christmas with my nephew and his wife she noticed I had a pretty bad sweet tooth. BTW, she is an NP and smart as a whip. Anyhow she sat me down for a talk about the effects of Refined Sugar and convinced me to cut back on that sweet tooth. As a result Arthritis in the radial head of both wrists and in the basal joint of both thumbs that once was so painful I had difficulty signing a pay check has gone to being totally pain free today. In addition the Trigger Finger in the middle finger of both hands has almost disappeared. Something most doctors will state that is not possible without surgery.
I also have to agree with you about the AF system in your Sony, it is amazing and I don't even own a Sony A1. What I have is a RX100VII which features an AF system based on the A9 and A1 system. BTW, this camera is going to my sister, because it just won't do for her to do a tour of Scotland with just an Iphone 12 to take pictures with. This Sony blows the AF on my Z7 II into the weeds so far you would need a 2000mm Reflex Nikkor to find it. BTW that do you call it when you mount a mirror lens to a mirrorless camera? A Mirrorless Mirror?
I loved this video, especially how you seduced me from spending a few hundred dollars to finally at the end $20K for the Z9 and Z 600 TC!!! I know I now have to sell my classic sports car, but the Z9 and 600 TC will hold up better in the next few decades. :)
Truthfully your classic sports car will increase in value over the next 20 years, while "no one" will want that dust old z9 and 600 tc in 5 years 😊
How about including an MFT camera + lens like the Lumix G9 mk2 or the OM1 Mk2 + Olympus 300mm f4 or the Olympus 100-400 or 150-400??
This video has some real early t&c vibes the hunting the color grading choices
my recommendation: Nikon D5600 with Af-p 70-300 dx vr, 500 dollar best setup the focus speed of that lens is really nice
The last time I was this early to comment, Tony still had blonde hair.
Another great camera gear, comparison video. 👍😊🏆
Totally agree with your high end picks. Really regret being in the Canon system and planning my escape.
You two are BRILLIANT. Fantastic video, which featured 2 of my cameras. But no mention of the best lens in the world .........(for the price) the Sigma 60/600 mm sport? Landscape! wildlife! waterproof! and unless your printing or pixel peeping sharp.........enough. Thanks for posting.
Nikon, it's a matter of time, will develop a reliable AF and increase its frame rates. I still prefer Nikon's files to Canon's and Sony's, but Chelsea, I hear you, the Sony system is more reliable (at the time of my comment) and definitely lighter. And that matters a lot with wildlife. But Tony's also right that the built-in TC is a game changer...going from 600 to 840 in a nanosecond is indeed a game changer. And the glass is optically superb! (after an endless number of patch-ups with the Z9, I think the better bet is to wait for the Z9 II at this point... always invest in the glass first, anyway).
Very well done! It is especially relevant to consider used gear as well as new products for today's audiences who are concerned about getting their money's worth.
Thanks a lot for the recommendations.
I still have a huge question, how do do guys transport each of those lenses?
I mean a smaller lens will probably live on a backpack, but as they get bigger, do they come with their own cases? and even if they come on their cases, do you guys have a preferred setup?
(Specially when traveling on a commercial airline. )
You guys really have extensive experience in wildlife! Well done!
I use a Sony A7iii with a Sigma 60-600mm lense. It's such a versatile lense and the camera is very affordable considering the features packed in. I bought mine used for $1200, although these days you can get one new for the same price at B&H. Someday I might get the A7iv when the price drops far enough, but that day is a ways away.
I will highly recommend the Sony A7RV with the Sigma 500mm 5.6 DG DN OS Sports ! I can also recommend the Sony A7RIII, Sony A7RIV and Sony A7RIVA. With these Cameras you can use the Sony 135mm 1.8 GM Lens and crop to a equivalent Lens of 300/400mm without problems !
Latest Sony cameras can do GPS tagging Tony!! You need to have the Creators' App on your phone with your camera registered in it. They latch to each other automatically even with the camera off. It all works like a charm with my a6700 and a phone without the i 😜.
Here is my super light setup: a6700 + SEL70350G = 1192 g = 2.63 lb. I don't think one can go lighter for similar picture quality, reach and autofocus.
I’m using Sony A9ii+200-600 for wildlife 👌🏻 Sometimes even with 2xTC for video (+heavy duty Benro HH100av tripod). I would not recommend 2xTC for stills, but for video it is actually pretty good 👌🏻
Love the HDR video!
Hey Tony, Chelsea how about testing the Canon RF 200-800 mm? Then you can say “And we’ve literally tested them all“ without crossing your fingers behind your back. 😉
We've ordered it... Still waiting.
@@TonyAndChelsea 😮 well that's depressing...if YOU can't get one I NEVER will LOL
I dunno, I’m an RF shooter now, and must say I’m perplexed by how slow their telephotos are. f/6.3 - f/9 just seems ridiculous. And these f/11 lenses they’re pushing, and even the bread and butter 100-400 is a 5.6 - 8, compared to everybody else’s, including Canon’s EF being 4.5 - 5.6. You can’t tell me it’s for any reason other than cost-cutting. And before you point out there is a 100-500, it too is a very slow f/7.1 on the long end, which for a cool $2700, seems a little lame. Why, even in this video you refer to Nikon’s fantastic 200-500 f/5.6 that costs $1500 less. Anyway, I really don’t get what Canon is doing with their telephotos. It’s probably why so many people are still adapting EF glass to their R bodies. Nikon and Sony shooters have far more options.
@@TonyAndChelseayou know in the uk I could get a ‘grey’ lens in less than a week and for about £880 less. Perhaps you should make an exception in this case.
@@jordancook1668 if you’re an RF shooter now perhaps you should’ve researched these lenses before you changed to whatever your camera is. The fact is that these are very good lenses and this is testified to by many many reviews on the Internet. You can use higher ISOs these days. I suspect the reason for these slow lenses is actually to reduce size.
I like that HDR video👍
Love watching the videos when you film outdoors. I always wonder if I explored there yet. Fellow Nutmegger here.
Cool - the Nikon Z TC primes are such a game changer! Personally I chose the 400mm f/2.8 TC but that's more to do with the scenarios I find myself shooting in..
I'm sure you have your reasons, but I was hoping to see where you think the higher end Canon products fit in. Including a mention of the Canon R5 Mark II, with the RF 600-f/4 or RF 800-f/5.6 would have been welcomed.
M43 is the best bang for buck for wildlife
It's not. There's no MFT camera + lens combo that doesn't have an APS-C or full frame alternative which is better, cheaper, or both.
Search our channel for wildlife zooms to see our MFT testing.
I use a Lumix G85 + Lumix 100-400 (probably $1200 now total?) which gives me an effective 200-800mm and weights half of any these kits and is weather sealed. Works great!
Also, y’all never mention low light usage - that Canon 800F11 has got to be terrible at dawn/dusk when all the wildlife is out (i know my Lumix isn’t great then either). That should be mentioned.
Haven't watched yet but you forgot the Lumix G9ii, 50-200 with teleonverter. Watching now.
Very good combo if you want to waste a lot of money on bad quality gear.
As a hobbyist, Canon r8 + rf200-800 is a perfect setup, it covers everything from big mammals to tiny birds
If only you could buy the 200-800...
@@TonyAndChelseait's not hard to get here in Australia, I just walked into a shop and buy it 😅
Love my Z8 for wildlife and landscape, paired with the 100-400 it's amazing. I will eventually get a 180-600 down the line for that little bit of extra reach and a 14-24 for landscaping, but as is I don't think it gets any better for the MP count and other video features. I don't think I'll be upgrading any time soon.
Hi, you forgot to mention one more camera gear. So what about Pentax K-3 III paired with excellent lens HD Pentax-D FA 150-450mm f/4.5-5.6 ED DC AW. ? That combo is worth considering too. This lens is providing amazing quality much more better that many other brand has to offer. Paired with.the new autofocus of K-3 III can provide you more than the decent results too.
Great Video!, unfortunately, I can't say anything about Sony Cameras because I've never used one, however, I do have the Nikon Z9 and Z8 with the Z 400mm 2.8 Tc, and the Z 180-600mm Lens, and have to be honest, I would find it hard (Not Impossible) to top those Len when it come to Wild Life, the Z 400 is an absolute Beast, especially when you add an additional external Tele-Converter to either of the Lens, It's also possible that I'm bias, I absolutely love the Nikon Cameras 🙂
I want to start off by saying I love your channel. Thanks for all the training videos. I've learned a ton. I was wondering if i could ask a question. I am a man with limited funds so i just bought a Nikon D7100. Tony, I watched your D7100 tutorial and you said that the Sigma 18-35mm F/1.8 DC HSM Art Lens is the sharpest lens that you can buy for this camera. I've got a nikkor 35mm and a 50mm lens. Im also looking at the Nikkor AF 80-400mm F4.5-5.6 D VR ED. which lens would you buy first? thanks
Do the Nikon dslr lenses (600 mm FL) work well with the Mirrorless cameras while using the adapter? Is there a huge advantage to using the Z lenses with the mirrorless cameras? Nikon is having a sale and used dslr lens prices are also decreasing nicely. Not so nice if you want to sell them though. Would I regret buying a dslr 800 mm on sale or even used to use with something like the Z9 or even Z8? But also with my D500 and D850. The main reason I would consider a mirrorless camera is because of the eye detection for birds in flight.
I have to admit, I'm really liking Tony's Jor-El look...
Awesome wildlife camera recommendation.
What are you guys using to record? In the A1 section, the focus kept pulsing and even loss you guys a few times. For what you guys do, seems very weird…
For someone stuck in Canon ecosystem due to enormous ammount of great EF lenses, I really hope you will review R5II soon.
Why not the canon eos r7 ncluded, it is the best non pro camera for wildlife, to my humble opinion.
Great video. Thanks guys 👍
I work on raptors that soars quite high. Until now I have used P950 for its zoom. I want to upgrade to mirrorless to capture birds in flight more effectively. Any suggestions which one would be ideal? I'm thinking about sony a6700 + sigma 60-600.
Hi Tony. Iuse the canon R5 and because I am heavely invested in the rf lenses already, it is difficult to change systems. However...I primarely shoot wildlife....with a lot of bird Photography included in my passion for photography. Videos has become more and more important. I wanted to purchase the R5 ii as a compliment for video purposes. I did however see that some say the 4k 60 and 4k 29 is dissapointing inn the sharpness catagory. Please help us out with a comparison video with whatever you suggest....Nikon Z8 or a Sony hybrid as here where I live, there is no Camera dealers where one can rent one to do tests ourselves. thanks
I’m an A1 shooter and do use a FE 200-600mm but looking either for more reach or lower lens weight so actually considering the 300mm GM with 2.X TC. Do wish Sony would come up with smaller lens with nice reach. I have no plans to spend $12,000 on a lens. Maybe half of that at most. Take care.
Sony 100-400 GM. About 1/2 the weight of the 200-600. Add a 1.4 converter and I am out to ~540 mm.
Personally, the best is A1 + 300mm 2.8 (with or without TC). Very light (relatively)
What camera are you filming the walk and talk on ? It looks so good !
How about including a telephoto bridge camera? Which one(s) would you recommend amongst those?
Thank you for the interesting video, did you forgot the canon 200-800mm ?
ATL!!!! You know what it is Tony! 😎
Tony and Chelsea, I wanted to ask you if you could do some videos/reviews about the eye glasses with the video capabilities now...??? 🙏🏼🙏🏼
I have a question, well two really. First is for Chelsea, a while back the two of you did a review/comparison video and Chelsea was reviewing a Nikon Z-FC mirrorless camera. I like the nostalgic looks of it and am contemplating purchasing a used one and was wondering if it's a capable camera for shooting birds and how does the autofocus work with the auto eye detect feature? My second question is where have all the birds gone? Cheers!
Love your videos.
The quality of this video looks great on my phone! Wow
Which camera did you use to shoot that video?
It was the A7siii. They had some captions about it when the AF was hunting during the talking head portions.
Personally I think a used Sony A9 with the 200-600 or the 100-400+ 1x4 teleconverter gives you the best all round combi. The latter being nearly a Kilo lighter especially if your doing a lot of trecking..
I enjoy your videos but, I don't see any micro four thirds gear on your channel. Iy is light enough to go hiking in the wilderness without the photo gear wearing me out due to it's weight & it takes some great shots.
The Nikon Z9 and this lens is what the Astronauts use on the ISS. Nothing but the best for our Astronauts. It looks like our tax dollars were not waisted on expensive toilets this time. ❤
Fun video! But the reality is photographers like Mark Smith have gotten great photos (better than most people) on the d500 paired with the 200-500. When I get consistently great results that equal Marks photos from 5 years ago, I'll move on. I will move on to another Nikon camera because it would cost thousands - maybe 10K to replace my Nikon glass. Switching manufacturers is only realistic if you're making 100% of your living from them. I only work 1/2 time as a photographer so it doesn't have the pay back to switch. I can't tell you how much money I've made using non-pro cameras!
what adapter would you recommend for a Sony A7R III to use Canon lens (need cheaper lens at the mo) thanks
Come to Ireland - You will be welcomed by Your Irish Fan Club - Thanks for all your advice
here is a fantasy Lens that i have in mind that Sony should make for us. 100-400mm F2.8 GM with a inbuilt 1.5X tele converter.
it will be a summary of several lenses like 70-200 F2.8, 300mm F2.8, 400mm F2.8, 100-400mm F4.5-5.6 and 200-600mm F5.6-6.3.
Question?? DSLR’s with RF lenses?? 7D looks like it had a RF lens??
What were you filming this on? So much focus hunting.
Where are the Lumix G9 II and with the 100-400mm Mark II, and the OM-1 Mark II with the 150-400mm?
Well clearly T&C don't think they're the best you can get for their price. Nothing wrong with that, surely.
Thanks for the video. Something to consider for wild like or in the city park with pond.
I assume R5M2 and A9M3 did not make it into the comparison?
🤭 I jumped on a brand new Tamron 150-600/f5-6.3 G2 USD from Japan last may => 780euros unbeatable - Complements my Sony 70-400/4-5.6 G ssm that I use for my than 1 year now.
Very good video
Nikon z6 iii vs Nikon z8
Hey, folks! Great content. I have a question about Nikon primes.
Are there any differences in sharpness between 500 f/4 and 600 f/4 other than the "extra reach"?
It looks like the price of the 500 has dropped a lot more than that of the 600 and I couldn't find a comparison.
As for the video, my one feedback is that the jump from $200 to $900 felt too steep. I'd consider a $500 recomendation to mend the gap.
Not really but the extra reach does really help with wildlife.
It‘s funny that you still prefer the a1 over the Nikon Z9 because of the AF performance. I’m shooting with the a9 III in parallel. Compared to the a1 the a9 III is so much better. This maybe shows that the Nikon Z8/Z9 AF isn’t already competitive anymore compared to Sony and Canon.
Great video, but I would put the new Canon R5 Mark II with the Canon 200-800mm against any of those set ups.
What about a9iii + 200-600 combination?
Tony would never recommend a Lumix. Or M43.
I think the 24mp rule that out for the Northrups at that price point.
They got the small sensor superzooms out of the way so quick if you blink you miss it. It reminded me of a kid who barely chews and quickly swallows a vegetable he doesn't like so he doesn't taste it and can then move on to some icecream.
The Nikon D500 is a very good camera, combined with a 200-500mm f5.6 lens, very good…… HOWEVER, many of us who did buy the 200-500mm were basically buying a lottery, because of the difference in performance of this lens. Example, 5 x people who bought this lens 2 x copies were good, 1 x copy would be crap, and the other 2x copies quite average in performance !!!!! Even when the lens was adjusted in the calibration option in the camera, it still performed average. The lens has issues at the 200mm end and the 500mm end. Typical performance for a zoom, however the inconsistencies at the various focal lengths were quite noticeable. Buyer beware, make sure you test the lens extensively before committing to it. Just my 2cents worth guys.
I've owned 2 copies of the 200-500 both were very sharp with good contrast in nice light, However they lost contrast and sharpness in flat light and actually looked pretty bad. this is the main difference between a consumer zoom and Exotic Prime, you can shoot the prime in rubbish lighting conditions and images still retain very good levels of detail and contrast.
I also have the Nikkor 600mm f4 prime. For wildlife and action sport (longer distances of course) really nice 👍 but heavy, hence my exploration of the 200-500mm.
Thanks! Quality videos, also not continuous 30 minutes videos. 10-20 minutes videos are long enough. KEH ROCKS !!!
µft cameras are definitely missing in your comparison. Some of them are very much tailored for wildlife photography, with great water sealing, stabilisation and animal detection. Even though the image quality is often criticised it is still good enough to do the job.
Search our channel for wildlife zoom to see why the didn't make the cut
@@TonyAndChelsea I did a search and was watching your ULTIMATE WILDLIFE ZOOM REVIEW but I still don't understand why the OM-1 MkII didn't made it.