Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 500-page camera-specific eBooks, member-only Q&A Forums + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files & access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
I love my 100-400 (tele if needed) combo. I know it’s pricier than the 200-600 but the ability to chuck it in a sling bag and take it on any random outing is priceless. The minimum focusing is just the icing on the cake.
I have to say, out of all the camera/lens videos I watch here, yours are easily the most interesting and knowledgable in my opinon. I love everyones perspective but theres something about your layout and the way you provide all the information with such fantastic examples. Thank you so much for all the effort that goes into all your work. Its really helped me a ton make choices on which lenses and stuff to add to my kit.
I just acquired the 200-600 from Sony for my A7III and thanks to your comments I was encouraged to have such a combination. Very happy with the results, that if, refining a lot.
Really appreciate you spending the time on this video Mark. I have modified my appreciation of some of those lens choices by what you have shared. Thank you very much. Your use of such a variety of lenses in as many situations extends my vision of what I can do both with what I already have and where I need look for other options.
32:20 I think this is so underrated. I constantly found the “megapixels don’t matter at all” argument when I was deciding between the A7 III and A7R III. I opted to go for the R with the dramatically higher MP count, and I’m so glad I did. I am *constantly* using my small-but-amazing Sony 55mm 1.8 lens with fairly aggressive crop in post to get some incredibly sharp photos that look as if they were either shot close up or with a decent telephoto.
I have the same setup as you in terms of the 55mm 1.8. Could you possibly tell me how much you can crop in order to avoid image quality loss? Or does it depend on where you'll be putting the image? I am quite the amateur so I'd appreciate any advice on this. Let's say I have the full frame image and since Instagram recommends a 1080x1080 crop for a 1:1 ratio post does this mean I could literally crop it down to that resolution and would not lose image quality? Or say, a 400x400 profile picture for LinkedIn I can really crop from full frame image to 400x400 and no image quality loss? And then for like a 4k monitor I could crop to 3840x2160 and no IQ loss?
I really doubt it. It depends what you're interested in. If you're not interested in Sony cameras this channel is absolutely worthless. That's the same as if you're not interested in computers and somebody tells you: "That's the best channel for computers on UA-cam!" :P
Excellent again. I have just bought the Sony 200-600 for my ILCE-7R3 and love it. Then I tested it on my Sony A6400 and suddenly I had a new standard combination. The tracking focus of a6400 combined with the "300-900" is perfect.
Thanks Mark, your tip about zooming into a landscape photo worked for me too when I was at Bryce Canyon NP last year with my a6400 and 18-135 lens. I must have had a premonition!
Amazing photos. I have the A7R 4, 24 f/1.4 GM, 85 f/1.4 GM and 135 f/1.8 GM. For my style of photography the only remaining lens I will consider is that 90mm macro lens. I really enjoyed this video. Thanks Mark!
Outstanding and informative Mark. Just as impressive were the quality of images you were able to capture with each camera and lens combo - you definitely prove that a carpenter can't blame his tools!
Hi @geekdomo, that's interesting to know. I was looking at 100-400 and was also wondering if I'd need a separate lens for macro. Your comment is promising. Do you use any extension tubes to each closer? I'd love take a peek at your macro photographs.
Thanks Gale. I know Sony's 100-400 is better than the new Sigma 100-400 but, unfortunately, one costs nearly 3000 $ and the Sigma 900 $. Sigma's may turn into an oasis at this focal length for the mortals (lol!). I own the wonderful 24-105 f4 from Sony and I'd love to have the 70-200 but I figure out it is a bit close to the 24-105 and a 100-400 makes more sense.
Mark, the dilemma you mention at 55:08 is what I'm currently facing. I have an A7RM3 and I have been taking photos of our family dog with the 70-350mm in crop mode - and noticing a fair amount of noise when I am at 1/2000th at ISO 2000. I did not realize that the noise is visually increased because of the crop. However, the Sony 100-400 is out of my budget, so I'm considering the soon to be released Sigma 100-400 for full frame since it's basically the same price as the 70-350. However since the weight is roughly the same as the Sony 100-400 - my other concern is walking around all day with such a heavy lens hanging off the camera body. Anyways, thanks for all your videos, they're fantastic.
Make sure any non-Sony lens you consider has stabilisation and has fast focus motors. Sony’s heavier telephoto zooms have camera strap attachments on the lens.
I love how you speak slow enough to understand what you are saying. There is a lot to this video and it was totally understandable to me. I plan to go to your website and also look at more videos! One question, if you were taking pictures in a dark auditorium would you opt for the 70-200 2.8 or do you think one could use the 100-400 with higher ISO? Or would you use something else?
really great reviews sir. I'll definitely check out your tutorials! keep up the great work! I'm interested in both the 100-400 and the 200-600. I'm hoping the 200-600 has a new firmware to make the AF more reliable.
Great video as always. Being a Sony Ambassador, is Sony aware of the issues with the FE 200-600mm + A7RIV? I have this combo and the amount of missed AF shots due to some incompatibility between them has become frustrating. I have no such issues with the A9 + FE 200-600mm or A7RIII + FE 200-600mm. There are numerous reports of the issue on forums but I have heard nothing from Sony on a fix via firmware yet.
This is really good to know, I was planning on picking up one of these, but if the AF has a pretty big problem I might hold off until either they fix the issue, or I end up having to look elsewhere.
Same issue here. I have an open warranty claim with Sony for the SEL200600G but I'm worried this isn't something that can be fixed just by recalibrating the lens. Hopefully a firmware fix is coming.
Stuart James Photography as you noted in your videos the issues are real, check Fred Miranda forums and some pro reviews have noted the AF inconsistency with this combination (A7RIV and 200600G). It shocking that Sony released this lens and Body over 6 months ago and the problem still has not been acknowledged or resolved. This is not the same Sony that won the mirrorless race. Sorry but no excuses Sony especially when a newcomer to mirrorless like Canon releases a 70-200 2.8 with an issue, and quickly fixes the problem weeks later. Fix please!
Great review (my only télé so far, is the 135mm GM. You are right, it is magnificent). Your settings are perfect and you manage to get fabulously sharp images
When my subject is close (wildlife) I use my trusty 70-200F2.8 GM otherwise I use a supertelephoto lens 150-600 that I hope I will replace by the 200-600😉
Thanks Mark for this video, really informative.. On the a7Riv+ 200 600 combination, the remark you have made, is Sony aware of this and working on a firmware? There has been multiple complains on this combo in many forums. So, people are hoping an ambassador like you will take the matter to Sony and they may work on this.
So far the only issue I have had with the combo is that 2xTC doesn't work with it in AF-C mode. AF-S works fine and no issues with 1.4xTC. Someone who has been using the combo for a while and made a remark that people are pushing the a7Riv and expecting/hoping close to a9 performance. The 100-400 GM in my experience is a faster focusing lens than the 200-600 G and people getting more hits with it and a7Riv might be just because of that.
@@Kallio1971 there is absolutely an issue with all 200600G on an A7RIV...no question. Bright light, backlit situations causes back focusing and missing shots. We are talking only 3 of 10 shots being acceptably in focus. This does not happen with the 100400GM, 400 2.8 or 600 F4 GM with A7RIV. Also, the 200600G has no such issues with A9 series....hence it is not a Problem with the lens AF motors keeping pace . It's a problem with the body and this lense combination.
@@njrtech what I am saying is that all the other lenses mentioned are faster and more reliable with their AF than the 200-600. Yes, even the 100-400 is noticeably faster than the 200-600. Combine that to the a7Riv not being even remotely in the same league as a9 and maybe it's just that the R4 is being pushed to its limits with the 200-600.
@@Kallio1971 the 100400GM does have dual linear AF motors and gets me a very high keeper rate on te A7RIV (90 percent keepers) ..hence why that lens is expensive . Its a superior lens to the 200600G ( I own both so this is based on real world experience)... still the 200600G should be able to achieve a keeper rate of 80 percent...it cant even hit 50% with this combo!
Thanks Mark. I've got ff and c cameras so I'm all over the place but I've been looking at a freinds 70-350 on her C camera. They're beautiful and I think I'll get one too. This was very helpful.
Hi Mark, you mentioned in the video that you can switch eyes when using eye-af. I have got the sony a7iii but do not know how you do that!? I always thought that the camera chooses the eye that it wants to focus on so I would love to know how you can switch eyes. I have searched google but can not find anything that shows how to switch eyes. Thanks :)
I required both price and bokeh and chosen Sigma 85 f/1.4 absolutely nothing to complain about) portraits? Easy. Shooting indoor football with A7R3a? Easy. With A7M4? Even better. Now 100-400 is my thinker lens.5.6-6.3 is really too dark, but sharp as hell
I love the 200-600 with the A9, but it sure struggles with the A7R IV. I find flexible spot gets me a lot more keepers than tracking will for birds in flight, regardless of what type of tracking settings or areas I've used. Hopefully they can address this, I've met several others who have the same issues. At first I thought maybe my camera or lens had something wrong! I just hope sports come back in the fall, because I really want to shoot football on the A9 and 400 2.8!
Same issue here. I have an open warranty claim with Sony for the SEL200600G but I'm worried this isn't something that can be fixed just by recalibrating the lens.
I find the hit rate slightly better than a6400 which seems about right. Acquiring focus is snappier on the a7Riv but tracking isn't that much better. It could just as well be the body, not the lens. It's not nearly on a9 level but it seems like people have been hyping it to be and now the expectations are on unrealistic levels. I first thought I'd put the 200-600 with 1.4xTC on a7Riv and 100-400 on a9 but I think I will most of the time do the opposite. 1m MFD on the 100-400 and a7Riv's pixel count makes it a very good combo for semi-macro shots.
@@bladerealm124 I think it's just a firmware thing. On the A9 the lens is absolutely incredible and gets fantastic results. You can get good results on the a7r IV too, but just not using tracking modes which will be very hit or miss. My other big problem with this lens is the amount of dust I'm finding behind the front element. Some pretty large specks of dust have found their way in there after about a year of use. Hasn't affected image quality and more than likely never will, but at some point it might need a cleaning service which won't be cheap lol
Thank you a great informative movie. What are the downsides to buying the 100-400 today in 2024? What are your thoughts to an upgrade on this lens by Sony?
Sony have primarily been upgrading older GM lenses so they can keep up with the sports cameras Sony have been releasing (A9, A9II, A9III and A1). The 100-400 was released on the same day as the A9 and can still keep up with the A9III. Sony may update this lens one day but there may be no urgency as the 100-400 is already performing well. The 85 F1.4 is the last GM lens that predates the A9 that will need to be updated. I am now using Sony's 300mm F2.8 GM more than my 100-400 because of the wider aperture.
Thank you for making this video. Which of these lenses works better with the animal AF on the Sony A7riii? Sony 135mm GM or 70-200mm F2.8GM. I know they are different, but if I can have only one for dog photography?
Wonderful channel, great content, and as enjoyable to watch as they are informative. The 135 1.8 GM is an exceptional portrait lens wide open, but there is never a mention of possible use for landscape or travel stopped down. Should it only be considered a portrait lens?
I capture landscapes with telephoto lenses and stop down when and if needed. There are telephoto landscapes in this presentation and 135 wildlife and action shots.
I have plenty of issues with my a7riv and 200-600 combo. My a7riv works perfect with any of my other 10 lenses. My a6400 with the 200-600 works great. If I shoot at 1/1000th or slower I can get sharp images, but any faster they come back slightly out of focus. You would think it would be the other way around. F7.1 and 2500th blurry. F6.3 and 800th on wading birds are sharp. I have Firmware 1.2 and it does not help. Last lens I sent back to Sony for repair came back full of large dust specks. I hate to send anything in for repair.
I am having the same problems with my 200-600mm. With the a7riv I get only 25% keeper rate at high shutter speeds. I get a much higher keeper rate with my older a7riii. They is a problem with this combo. Sony needs to address it. Currently they are claiming user error.
Hey Mark, really useful video. Am looking at the FE 70-200 f4 or 70-300. Is the 70-200 f4 really that much better than the 70-300? I hear there is a lot of sample variability with the 70-300.
I could only test the 70-300 I owned for a year. I can’t comment on product variations. I have owned to 70-200 F/4 from when it was first released and never regret owning it. I need the faster AF performance and wider aperture because i shoot rapidly moving subjects. Yes it is that much better than the 70-300
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks very much for the quick reply Mark, much appreciated! I find your videos really informative and helpful for getting the best out of my A7iii!
Excellent video as always. I recently used my A7iii + 100-400 GM for a whale watching boat tour. Using your recommended "action" settings (Aperture priority, minimum SS 1/2000, AF-C wide zone) I found that many of my shots were out of focus. Maybe it was the lack of contrast between the whales and the sea. Any recommendation? Maybe using a different autofocus area?
The water may be confusing the AF - try placing a zone or flexible spot above any water that is closer than the whale. I have an AF Area video that may help.
Another EXCELLENT video Mark. Question . . . I have an A7iii w/ two lenses, 24-105 G, and 100-400GM, I was considering the 16-35GM for the wide-end. It would be used primarily for landscape, low light, and I'm HOPING it would perform well for shooting stars at night. There's a hefty price tag with that lens . . . can you advise on it's performance for astrophotography? I've heard the 24mmGM is excellent for astro . . . but I really like telephoto lenses for their versatility. Thank you in advance. Cheers.
The 16-35 G master performs well with Astro. It’s 16mm focal length, wide f/2.8 aperture matched with the high ISO performance of the A7lll is a good combo.
At 33:50, may I ask: How fast shutter speed do you apply for something like this? When you are at 400 mm and subject is moving 200 kph? Seems impossible in my mind. Thank you so much for this video. Amazing work!
It takes a lot of practice to pan with very fast moving subjects and slow shutter speeds. I will use 1/500 second if I need to increase my hit rate (while creating some movement blur in the background) but will slow the shutter speed down to 1/250 second if I want to increase the amount of movement blur. If the bikes are slower moving 9and therefore the camera is moving more slowly) I will slow the shutter speed down to 1/125 second or slower. Speeds of 1/2000 second or higher will reliably freeze your subject, even if your panning is not super-accurate but will also freeze the background as well. I provide ongoing personal support and mentoring on my Patreon support channel: www.Patreon.com/markgaler
Thanks Mark, your videos are so helpful. I'd love to hear your opinion between these two cameras for general (travel, family) photography so I don't waste time agonizing over which to bring! Sony RX 10 iii vs Sony A7riii with 24-105 lens (love that lens!) and then crop the 24-105 image to get more reach. If necessary I could get more gear...trying not to though. Thanks
It's a bit complicated to give a short answer to a complex question. I don't know what you like to shoot, the size of the camera bag you like to carry around, your expectation of low light high ISO performance etc. etc.. This is the sort of service I offer my Patrons on Patreon.com - a consultancy or mentoring service.
is this where we ask questions? I'm trying to decide what's more important for the youth baseball photography I like to do: is it more reach with higher aperture or less reach with lower aperture that I crop? I can't afford the super expensive lenses that have both so I was looking at Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens for Sony E-Mount vs Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD A071 Lens for Sony E-Mount...thoughts? is there a better solution? I found that that I need the 300mm reach basically, but now wonder if the less aperture cropped is actually better?
Hey Mark. Great video as usual! I have a Sony SEL 200-600G, but images are not sharp at all. Your pictures taken using this lens are amazing. It would be great to have some tips on how to use this lens properly.
I outline my recommendations in my Action/Sports settings, AF Tracking and AF Area videos and my free to download 400 page eBook available from MarkGaler.com
I have used it - your high ISO performance halves when you shoot in APS-C mode and you are capturing 18 Megapixels. If you are happy with that then go for it.
Hi Mark, great video as always, would like some advice please. I would like to buy a Sony 70-200 I could afford the 2.8 but it would take half my money and not sure whether it's worth spending that extra money on the 2.8 or save a load of money and get the F4 instead. I'm a landscape photographer so will be used for landscapes, but also like astrophotography and would like to use it for deep space Photography and have a star tracker, I would like to use it for inside and outside Photography if ever I need to do a wedding for instance, but worried that the f4 won't let in enough light and end up having to crank up my iso and introduce to much noise, especially if it's a wedding reception at an evening party. Is it worth spending out for the 2.8 I'm going second hand also not new, the f4 is actually pretty cheap at around £700 but the 2.8 is double that. Thanks for your help. Ryan.
The issues being raised by the Alpha community were common but not everyone reported them. Sony also never recognised there was a problem or listed a fix in subsequent firmware updates. Some Sony users attributed the problem to using a UV filter while other claimed to have found a fix by changing the Aperture Drive in AF setting from Focus priority back to Standard.
Mark, question for you. Do you feel it would be worthwhile trading my A7RIV for the A9ii or do you think I'd miss the resolution? I feel like this is a move backwards in some respects,. Only reason I'm considering this move is I am shooting a lot of birds and my 200600G isn't playing nicely with my A7RIV. Will a firmware fix this ? Maybe but feels like it won't be soon enough. Obviously the A9ii has tremendous AF. But the A7RIV isn't bad at all...matter of fact the A7RIV with 100400GM nets me 90 percent keeper rate with the A7RIV, vs maybe 50 percent keeper's with 200600G. Thx
The A9 cameras are superior if you mostly photograph things that move. The lower resolution means that sometimes you have to use longer zooms to get close enough. I use the 100-400 on the A7RlV and the 200-600 on the A9ll
My extended FE 200-600 G review compares the 200-600 with the 100-400, so should answer this question for you. if it does not I can help you arrive at the appropriate decision by further discussions on my Patreon channel: www.patreon.com/markgaler
Hi, do you have any grinding noise with the 70-200 2.8 GM? There’s one video in UA-cam that shows a weird grinding noise when he switched on the camera, and majority of the user comments mentioning they have the same weird noises too. Is it normal, or it is a faulty lens batch? Hope to hear your reply before I purchase mine soon. Thanks.
I added time stamps in the Info section so people could jump ahead. technically both the RX100 and RX10 are using telephoto lenses (and the title lists Sony and not Alpha) and the comparison between images captured with wide angle focal lengths and longer focal lengths explains what the telephoto lenses bring to the table.
I suppose it is the chicken and egg story. The FE 70-200 F/4 G was released before there were any converters. When they made the converters they made them so they would fit the newer 100-400 and 70-200 G Master lenses. I am sure if they could roll back the clock on the design of the F/4 G they would have done things differently.
Mark, could you please give your opinions on the SAL500F40G 500mm F4 A-mount lens? I'm currently shooting the A99ii , but may in a few years move to an A7Riv (or equivalent), and was wondering what you think about the lens itself, and it's use on the mirrorless cameras via adapter? I'm just about to drop the $ for this lens, but would love your opinion first. Thanks!
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Aah, I was sure you would have! Oh well, I'm still really confident in the lens, and the pariing with my a99ii, so I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for the reply Mark!
Thank you for this video! I'm not a professional photographer, but I love it and know something about it.. So, I need a camera to photograph my dogs (dogs are my profesion) and this is very helpful! I'm looking for a cheapest option with animal eye af and I think I'm going to buy used aps-c (a6400) with a up to 200mm lens for a full frame.. That would be 300mm on aps-c if I've got that wright, and thats enough for me and when I would have more money I could upgrade to a9 and keep the lens Woah I've just find out the 2xtelephoto converter.. Will that make the 70-200fullframe lens to a 210-600 equivalent on aps-c?? If so, thats all I need.. Im out! 😁
Your maths is correct, If you are using a sony 7-200 to capture rapidly running dogs then I recommend the Mark II version of the 70-200 GM. If your budget does not extend to this then you should consider the E 70-350 G OSS. It won't take the converters but it has a full-frame equivalent zoom range of 105 to 525mm.
I had sold my 100400GM when Sony released the 200600G. You know what? Regretted it big time. Just repurchased the 100400GM....keeping both. They compliment each other.
Join me on Patreon for the best Alpha Support and Guidance. A single $10 Membership fee includes access to my 500-page camera-specific eBooks, member-only Q&A Forums + Over twenty 1-hour member-only seminars + cameras settings files & access to the Raw files from the lens and camera reviews (there is no contract or commitment beyond the first month). www.patreon.com/markgaler
By far the most comprehensive review of Sony lenses anywhere. I had to laugh when you said “.... I’m staying well clear of the 600mm GM” 😂😂😂
There’s something about your photos/editing that really soothing everytime i see them..hats off Sir!
I love my 100-400 (tele if needed) combo. I know it’s pricier than the 200-600 but the ability to chuck it in a sling bag and take it on any random outing is priceless. The minimum focusing is just the icing on the cake.
... not to mention the ability to attain a 600mm field of view on my A7RIV with the flick of a switch and still record images at 26mpx.
I actually own both 100400GM and 200600G. Different teles and both have uses for me.
@@njrtech I’m actually deciding between the two... if you could only have one, which one would it be?
I have to say, out of all the camera/lens videos I watch here, yours are easily the most interesting and knowledgable in my opinon. I love everyones perspective but theres something about your layout and the way you provide all the information with such fantastic examples. Thank you so much for all the effort that goes into all your work. Its really helped me a ton make choices on which lenses and stuff to add to my kit.
I just acquired the 200-600 from Sony for my A7III and thanks to your comments I was encouraged to have such a combination. Very happy with the results, that if, refining a lot.
Another excellent educational video. Incredible photos and very informative! Sony should be very happy to have you onboard:) Cheers from Norway!
Best channel I’ve found today. Thank you so much
Really appreciate you spending the time on this video Mark. I have modified my appreciation of some of those lens choices by what you have shared. Thank you very much. Your use of such a variety of lenses in as many situations extends my vision of what I can do both with what I already have and where I need look for other options.
32:20 I think this is so underrated. I constantly found the “megapixels don’t matter at all” argument when I was deciding between the A7 III and A7R III. I opted to go for the R with the dramatically higher MP count, and I’m so glad I did. I am *constantly* using my small-but-amazing Sony 55mm 1.8 lens with fairly aggressive crop in post to get some incredibly sharp photos that look as if they were either shot close up or with a decent telephoto.
agree !°
I have the same setup as you in terms of the 55mm 1.8. Could you possibly tell me how much you can crop in order to avoid image quality loss? Or does it depend on where you'll be putting the image? I am quite the amateur so I'd appreciate any advice on this. Let's say I have the full frame image and since Instagram recommends a 1080x1080 crop for a 1:1 ratio post does this mean I could literally crop it down to that resolution and would not lose image quality? Or say, a 400x400 profile picture for LinkedIn I can really crop from full frame image to 400x400 and no image quality loss? And then for like a 4k monitor I could crop to 3840x2160 and no IQ loss?
Agree. I am using 35 1.2 to get 50 1.8 in crop mode with 1.2 exposure :)
You're a legend! Thanks for taking the time to explain all this to us :)
Love your Videos and Photos Mark - Sony is lucky to have you ...
Thanks for this introduction to the world of Sony, I must say I'm sorely tempted after 30 yrs with Nikon !
This is the best channel on UA-cam.
I really doubt it. It depends what you're interested in. If you're not interested in Sony cameras this channel is absolutely worthless. That's the same as if you're not interested in computers and somebody tells you: "That's the best channel for computers on UA-cam!" :P
Excellent again. I have just bought the Sony 200-600 for my ILCE-7R3 and love it. Then I tested it on my Sony A6400 and suddenly I had a new standard combination. The tracking focus of a6400 combined with the "300-900" is perfect.
Thanks Mark, your tip about zooming into a landscape photo worked for me too when I was at Bryce Canyon NP last year with my a6400 and 18-135 lens. I must have had a premonition!
Amazing photos. I have the A7R 4, 24 f/1.4 GM, 85 f/1.4 GM and 135 f/1.8 GM. For my style of photography the only remaining lens I will consider is that 90mm macro lens. I really enjoyed this video. Thanks Mark!
Rich $$$
Outstanding and informative Mark. Just as impressive were the quality of images you were able to capture with each camera and lens combo - you definitely prove that a carpenter can't blame his tools!
I have countless times used my 100-400 GM as a macro lens. It is an amazing all in one solution for wildlife (for me)
Hi @geekdomo, that's interesting to know. I was looking at 100-400 and was also wondering if I'd need a separate lens for macro. Your comment is promising. Do you use any extension tubes to each closer? I'd love take a peek at your macro photographs.
And I do not use any tubes.
My combo is 70-200G and the 200-600G :) I love both lens. I also have the 85 1.8 and used it on FF and APS-C body too and loved the results.
I am really in love with your work. I own a 6400 alpha and have been looking for zoom lenses, I think this video will help.
Keep up the uploads, Mark. I always thoroughly enjoy your presentation.
The 100 Stu is my all round lens, love it
Another great informative video Mark - I have always followed your excellent advice before making any of my Sony purchases - many thx!
Mark, I am so, so very grateful for your commitment to excellence, and your superb willingness to teach with simplicity and understanding. Thank you
You are very welcome
Superb pictures and great video. Thank you very much for all the info.
Thanks for the video!! Photos and your method of advice is dope!!
I don’t skip ads on this channel!
Only the legendary 🙌
135 1.8 changed my life! A must have for all Sony Photographers!
As close to perfect optics as you can get.
I am excited...I just purchased the 200-600mm for my A7 iii!!
Fabulous video. I think I know my gear, but I know by watching and listening to you I will learn so much more. Thank so much.
Thanks for the positive feedback Cheryl.
Thanks Gale. I know Sony's 100-400 is better than the new Sigma 100-400 but, unfortunately, one costs nearly 3000 $ and the Sigma 900 $. Sigma's may turn into an oasis at this focal length for the mortals (lol!). I own the wonderful 24-105 f4 from Sony and I'd love to have the 70-200 but I figure out it is a bit close to the 24-105 and a 100-400 makes more sense.
You are fascinating Mark ! fantastic VDO ! cheers !!!
Mark, the dilemma you mention at 55:08 is what I'm currently facing. I have an A7RM3 and I have been taking photos of our family dog with the 70-350mm in crop mode - and noticing a fair amount of noise when I am at 1/2000th at ISO 2000. I did not realize that the noise is visually increased because of the crop. However, the Sony 100-400 is out of my budget, so I'm considering the soon to be released Sigma 100-400 for full frame since it's basically the same price as the 70-350. However since the weight is roughly the same as the Sony 100-400 - my other concern is walking around all day with such a heavy lens hanging off the camera body. Anyways, thanks for all your videos, they're fantastic.
Make sure any non-Sony lens you consider has stabilisation and has fast focus motors. Sony’s heavier telephoto zooms have camera strap attachments on the lens.
Mark Galer's Alpha Creative Skills Thank you Mark.
Thank You For taking Your time giving information!🙏
My pleasure!
Thanks for the great video and sharing of knowledge!
I love how you speak slow enough to understand what you are saying. There is a lot to this video and it was totally understandable to me. I plan to go to your website and also look at more videos! One question, if you were taking pictures in a dark auditorium would you opt for the 70-200 2.8 or do you think one could use the 100-400 with higher ISO? Or would you use something else?
I would be using a prime such as the 135 GM or an f/2.8 zoom.
Really excellent video Mark, learnt a lot👍
A9 II with 400mm f/2.8 would be a dream combo.
really great reviews sir. I'll definitely check out your tutorials! keep up the great work! I'm interested in both the 100-400 and the 200-600. I'm hoping the 200-600 has a new firmware to make the AF more reliable.
Very informative, new sub🤙🏼
Best channel I’ve found. Thank you
Glad you enjoy it!
I'm gonna give the award for best bokeh to the Sigma 105mm F1.4, but the 135mm GM is a close second.
Thank you Mark!!! ✌🏻 Great Job
I shoot with the GM600 f4 handheld for the last 40,000 frames. It's never been on a tripod or monopod. It's so light compared to 600mm f4 of the past.
Another excellent, very useful lens run down. Spectacular images too.
Great video as always. Being a Sony Ambassador, is Sony aware of the issues with the FE 200-600mm + A7RIV? I have this combo and the amount of missed AF shots due to some incompatibility between them has become frustrating. I have no such issues with the A9 + FE 200-600mm or A7RIII + FE 200-600mm. There are numerous reports of the issue on forums but I have heard nothing from Sony on a fix via firmware yet.
I have reported my findings to Sony Australia - fingers crossed it will improve with a lens or camera firmware update.
This is really good to know, I was planning on picking up one of these, but if the AF has a pretty big problem I might hold off until either they fix the issue, or I end up having to look elsewhere.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Good to know. Hopefully they prioritize a fix to address it
Thank you for sharing
Same issue here. I have an open warranty claim with Sony for the SEL200600G but I'm worried this isn't something that can be fixed just by recalibrating the lens. Hopefully a firmware fix is coming.
Mark i have made videos on the issue with the a7riv and 200-600 autofocus issue
Stuart James Photography as you noted in your videos the issues are real, check Fred Miranda forums and some pro reviews have noted the AF inconsistency with this combination (A7RIV and 200600G). It shocking that Sony released this lens and Body over 6 months ago and the problem still has not been acknowledged or resolved. This is not the same Sony that won the mirrorless race. Sorry but no excuses Sony especially when a newcomer to mirrorless like Canon releases a 70-200 2.8 with an issue, and quickly fixes the problem weeks later. Fix please!
@@njrtech lens was released about 8 months before the a7riv i think that is the problem where the camera tech moved on and the lens needs updating
Hehe I would say .. it is not about Sony who create this this awesome photos .. it is the photographer :P ... really great work!!
Great review (my only télé so far, is the 135mm GM. You are right, it is magnificent). Your settings are perfect and you manage to get fabulously sharp images
Great to hear!
SONY ON TOP! 501.2 IM LOVING IT!
...he knows everything...amazing
Hi Mark, I always enjoy your videos. You speak of the a7R camera. Would you recommend the Sony 100-400mm on an a7III? Thanks,
Yes -a good match.
When my subject is close (wildlife) I use my trusty 70-200F2.8 GM otherwise I use a supertelephoto lens 150-600 that I hope I will replace by the 200-600😉
Thank you Mark. Your the man 👍🏿
Super interesting, many thanks, Mark. Greetings from Germany. 👍🏼
Glad you enjoyed it
I have that 85mm f/1.8. Great lens for my A6400.
Mark I want to be just like you when I grow up.
Thanks Mark for this video, really informative..
On the a7Riv+ 200 600 combination, the remark you have made, is Sony aware of this and working on a firmware? There has been multiple complains on this combo in many forums. So, people are hoping an ambassador like you will take the matter to Sony and they may work on this.
I have spoken the the product specialist here in Australia who, in turn, will raise the issue with Japan.
So far the only issue I have had with the combo is that 2xTC doesn't work with it in AF-C mode. AF-S works fine and no issues with 1.4xTC. Someone who has been using the combo for a while and made a remark that people are pushing the a7Riv and expecting/hoping close to a9 performance. The 100-400 GM in my experience is a faster focusing lens than the 200-600 G and people getting more hits with it and a7Riv might be just because of that.
@@Kallio1971 there is absolutely an issue with all 200600G on an A7RIV...no question. Bright light, backlit situations causes back focusing and missing shots. We are talking only 3 of 10 shots being acceptably in focus. This does not happen with the 100400GM, 400 2.8 or 600 F4 GM with A7RIV. Also, the 200600G has no such issues with A9 series....hence it is not a Problem with the lens AF motors keeping pace . It's a problem with the body and this lense combination.
@@njrtech what I am saying is that all the other lenses mentioned are faster and more reliable with their AF than the 200-600. Yes, even the 100-400 is noticeably faster than the 200-600. Combine that to the a7Riv not being even remotely in the same league as a9 and maybe it's just that the R4 is being pushed to its limits with the 200-600.
@@Kallio1971 the 100400GM does have dual linear AF motors and gets me a very high keeper rate on te A7RIV (90 percent keepers) ..hence why that lens is expensive . Its a superior lens to the 200600G ( I own both so this is based on real world experience)... still the 200600G should be able to achieve a keeper rate of 80 percent...it cant even hit 50% with this combo!
Thanks Mark. I've got ff and c cameras so I'm all over the place but I've been looking at a freinds 70-350 on her C camera. They're beautiful and I think I'll get one too. This was very helpful.
Go for it!
Thank you very much for the amazing guide!
Glad you found it helpful
Hi Mark, you mentioned in the video that you can switch eyes when using eye-af. I have got the sony a7iii but do not know how you do that!? I always thought that the camera chooses the eye that it wants to focus on so I would love to know how you can switch eyes. I have searched google but can not find anything that shows how to switch eyes.
Thanks :)
The option is in the menus and you can assign it to a custom key
And likewise would you recommend the 200-600 G for an a7III camera? Thanks,
I required both price and bokeh and chosen Sigma 85 f/1.4 absolutely nothing to complain about) portraits? Easy. Shooting indoor football with A7R3a? Easy. With A7M4? Even better. Now 100-400 is my thinker lens.5.6-6.3 is really too dark, but sharp as hell
The 100-400 is a solid performer with fast AF and a good close focusing distance
I love the 200-600 with the A9, but it sure struggles with the A7R IV. I find flexible spot gets me a lot more keepers than tracking will for birds in flight, regardless of what type of tracking settings or areas I've used. Hopefully they can address this, I've met several others who have the same issues. At first I thought maybe my camera or lens had something wrong! I just hope sports come back in the fall, because I really want to shoot football on the A9 and 400 2.8!
Same issue here. I have an open warranty claim with Sony for the SEL200600G but I'm worried this isn't something that can be fixed just by recalibrating the lens.
I find the hit rate slightly better than a6400 which seems about right. Acquiring focus is snappier on the a7Riv but tracking isn't that much better. It could just as well be the body, not the lens. It's not nearly on a9 level but it seems like people have been hyping it to be and now the expectations are on unrealistic levels. I first thought I'd put the 200-600 with 1.4xTC on a7Riv and 100-400 on a9 but I think I will most of the time do the opposite. 1m MFD on the 100-400 and a7Riv's pixel count makes it a very good combo for semi-macro shots.
@@bladerealm124 I think it's just a firmware thing. On the A9 the lens is absolutely incredible and gets fantastic results. You can get good results on the a7r IV too, but just not using tracking modes which will be very hit or miss. My other big problem with this lens is the amount of dust I'm finding behind the front element. Some pretty large specks of dust have found their way in there after about a year of use. Hasn't affected image quality and more than likely never will, but at some point it might need a cleaning service which won't be cheap lol
Big thank's for your long reviews :)
I prepared 2-hour University lectures for more than 10 years so I like to be thorough.
Thank you a great informative movie. What are the downsides to buying the 100-400 today in 2024? What are your thoughts to an upgrade on this lens by Sony?
Sony have primarily been upgrading older GM lenses so they can keep up with the sports cameras Sony have been releasing (A9, A9II, A9III and A1). The 100-400 was released on the same day as the A9 and can still keep up with the A9III. Sony may update this lens one day but there may be no urgency as the 100-400 is already performing well. The 85 F1.4 is the last GM lens that predates the A9 that will need to be updated. I am now using Sony's 300mm F2.8 GM more than my 100-400 because of the wider aperture.
Thank you for making this video. Which of these lenses works better with the animal AF on the Sony A7riii? Sony 135mm GM or 70-200mm F2.8GM. I know they are different, but if I can have only one for dog photography?
The 135 GM is a faster focusing lens than the 70-200 GM and has the advantage of a brighter aperture which increases the reliability of AF tracking.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Much appreciated for your information!!!
Loved it
Wonderful channel, great content, and as enjoyable to watch as they are informative. The 135 1.8 GM is an exceptional portrait lens wide open, but there is never a mention of possible use for landscape or travel stopped down. Should it only be considered a portrait lens?
I capture landscapes with telephoto lenses and stop down when and if needed. There are telephoto landscapes in this presentation and 135 wildlife and action shots.
I have plenty of issues with my a7riv and 200-600 combo. My a7riv works perfect with any of my other 10 lenses. My a6400 with the 200-600 works great. If I shoot at 1/1000th or slower I can get sharp images, but any faster they come back slightly out of focus. You would think it would be the other way around. F7.1 and 2500th blurry. F6.3 and 800th on wading birds are sharp. I have Firmware 1.2 and it does not help. Last lens I sent back to Sony for repair came back full of large dust specks. I hate to send anything in for repair.
This is why I am currently not recommending the 200-600 with the A7RlV
I am having the same problems with my 200-600mm. With the a7riv I get only 25% keeper rate at high shutter speeds. I get a much higher keeper rate with my older a7riii. They is a problem with this combo. Sony needs to address it. Currently they are claiming user error.
Hi 👋 would you recommend Sony 70-200 f2.8 GM today? I am looking for a solid telephoto zoom in this focal range for my Sony A7III
I give personal guidance on my Patreon website - all of the general guidance I can think of is covered in these video tutorials
Hey Mark, really useful video. Am looking at the FE 70-200 f4 or 70-300. Is the 70-200 f4 really that much better than the 70-300? I hear there is a lot of sample variability with the 70-300.
I could only test the 70-300 I owned for a year. I can’t comment on product variations. I have owned to 70-200 F/4 from when it was first released and never regret owning it. I need the faster AF performance and wider aperture because i shoot rapidly moving subjects. Yes it is that much better than the 70-300
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Thanks very much for the quick reply Mark, much appreciated! I find your videos really informative and helpful for getting the best out of my A7iii!
Excellent video as always. I recently used my A7iii + 100-400 GM for a whale watching boat tour. Using your recommended "action" settings (Aperture priority, minimum SS 1/2000, AF-C wide zone) I found that many of my shots were out of focus. Maybe it was the lack of contrast between the whales and the sea. Any recommendation? Maybe using a different autofocus area?
The water may be confusing the AF - try placing a zone or flexible spot above any water that is closer than the whale. I have an AF Area video that may help.
Another EXCELLENT video Mark. Question . . . I have an A7iii w/ two lenses, 24-105 G, and 100-400GM, I was considering the 16-35GM for the wide-end. It would be used primarily for landscape, low light, and I'm HOPING it would perform well for shooting stars at night. There's a hefty price tag with that lens . . . can you advise on it's performance for astrophotography? I've heard the 24mmGM is excellent for astro . . . but I really like telephoto lenses for their versatility. Thank you in advance. Cheers.
The 16-35 G master performs well with Astro. It’s 16mm focal length, wide f/2.8 aperture matched with the high ISO performance of the A7lll is a good combo.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Excellent ! Thank you so much Sir! Time to start saving a little money for a 'Milky Way Shoot' later this summer! Cheers!
I have same combination but on the A7RIV. 1635GM, 24-105G , 100400GM and 200600G. All are great lenses.
"...put this into perspective..." 😁 I saw what you did there! 👍
At 33:50, may I ask: How fast shutter speed do you apply for something like this? When you are at 400 mm and subject is moving 200 kph? Seems impossible in my mind.
Thank you so much for this video. Amazing work!
It takes a lot of practice to pan with very fast moving subjects and slow shutter speeds. I will use 1/500 second if I need to increase my hit rate (while creating some movement blur in the background) but will slow the shutter speed down to 1/250 second if I want to increase the amount of movement blur. If the bikes are slower moving 9and therefore the camera is moving more slowly) I will slow the shutter speed down to 1/125 second or slower.
Speeds of 1/2000 second or higher will reliably freeze your subject, even if your panning is not super-accurate but will also freeze the background as well. I provide ongoing personal support and mentoring on my Patreon support channel: www.Patreon.com/markgaler
Pleasure to watch
Thanks
Thanks Mark, your videos are so helpful. I'd love to hear your opinion between these two cameras for general (travel, family) photography so I don't waste time agonizing over which to bring! Sony RX 10 iii vs Sony A7riii with 24-105 lens (love that lens!) and then crop the 24-105 image to get more reach. If necessary I could get more gear...trying not to though. Thanks
It's a bit complicated to give a short answer to a complex question. I don't know what you like to shoot, the size of the camera bag you like to carry around, your expectation of low light high ISO performance etc. etc.. This is the sort of service I offer my Patrons on Patreon.com - a consultancy or mentoring service.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Ok thank you, I'll check into that.
is this where we ask questions? I'm trying to decide what's more important for the youth baseball photography I like to do: is it more reach with higher aperture or less reach with lower aperture that I crop? I can't afford the super expensive lenses that have both so I was looking at Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3 Di III RXD Lens for Sony E-Mount vs Tamron 28-200mm F2.8-5.6 Di III RXD A071 Lens for Sony E-Mount...thoughts? is there a better solution? I found that that I need the 300mm reach basically, but now wonder if the less aperture cropped is actually better?
does E 70-350 lens are great to photograph indoor/outdoor competitive swim ?
Thank you!
This is getting a little old now but I have additional 'Lens Choice' videos on Patreon.com/markgaler
Thank you 😊
You're welcome 😊
Hey Mark. Great video as usual! I have a Sony SEL 200-600G, but images are not sharp at all. Your pictures taken using this lens are amazing. It would be great to have some tips on how to use this lens properly.
I outline my recommendations in my Action/Sports settings, AF Tracking and AF Area videos and my free to download 400 page eBook available from MarkGaler.com
Would you at all recommend using the Sony 70-350mm with the a7R3?
I like to have a light weight, compact gear.
I have used it - your high ISO performance halves when you shoot in APS-C mode and you are capturing 18 Megapixels. If you are happy with that then go for it.
Mark Galer's Alpha Creative Skills Understood. Thank you so much for the very useful video!
Hi Mark, great video as always, would like some advice please.
I would like to buy a Sony 70-200 I could afford the 2.8 but it would take half my money and not sure whether it's worth spending that extra money on the 2.8 or save a load of money and get the F4 instead. I'm a landscape photographer so will be used for landscapes, but also like astrophotography and would like to use it for deep space Photography and have a star tracker, I would like to use it for inside and outside Photography if ever I need to do a wedding for instance, but worried that the f4 won't let in enough light and end up having to crank up my iso and introduce to much noise, especially if it's a wedding reception at an evening party. Is it worth spending out for the 2.8 I'm going second hand also not new, the f4 is actually pretty cheap at around £700 but the 2.8 is double that. Thanks for your help. Ryan.
Get the f/4 if you are on a budget.
Thanks 🙏
You’re welcome 😊
I recently got a 200-600 for my A7r IV and don't notice the issues you mention. Was it fixed by firmware?
The issues being raised by the Alpha community were common but not everyone reported them. Sony also never recognised there was a problem or listed a fix in subsequent firmware updates. Some Sony users attributed the problem to using a UV filter while other claimed to have found a fix by changing the Aperture Drive in AF setting from Focus priority back to Standard.
Mark, question for you. Do you feel it would be worthwhile trading my A7RIV for the A9ii or do you think I'd miss the resolution? I feel like this is a move backwards in some respects,. Only reason I'm considering this move is I am shooting a lot of birds and my 200600G isn't playing nicely with my A7RIV. Will a firmware fix this ? Maybe but feels like it won't be soon enough. Obviously the A9ii has tremendous AF. But the A7RIV isn't bad at all...matter of fact the A7RIV with 100400GM nets me 90 percent keeper rate with the A7RIV, vs maybe 50 percent keeper's with 200600G. Thx
The A9 cameras are superior if you mostly photograph things that move. The lower resolution means that sometimes you have to use longer zooms to get close enough. I use the 100-400 on the A7RlV and the 200-600 on the A9ll
Aaaamazing pictures
Glad you think so
Hi Mark, would you recommend the 200-600 over the 100-400 for the Alpha 1?
My extended FE 200-600 G review compares the 200-600 with the 100-400, so should answer this question for you. if it does not I can help you arrive at the appropriate decision by further discussions on my Patreon channel: www.patreon.com/markgaler
Hi, do you have any grinding noise with the 70-200 2.8 GM? There’s one video in UA-cam that shows a weird grinding noise when he switched on the camera, and majority of the user comments mentioning they have the same weird noises too. Is it normal, or it is a faulty lens batch? Hope to hear your reply before I purchase mine soon. Thanks.
I don't own the FE 70-200 F/2.8 GM and don't remember any grinding noises when I reviewed the lens.
Looks like you took that Melbourne shot from Geelong.
Not quite that far away - Fisherman’s bend in Port Melbourne
Fantastic video. Confusing title, especially since the beginning of the video has no telephoto lenses
I added time stamps in the Info section so people could jump ahead. technically both the RX100 and RX10 are using telephoto lenses (and the title lists Sony and not Alpha) and the comparison between images captured with wide angle focal lengths and longer focal lengths explains what the telephoto lenses bring to the table.
I often wonder why they didn't make the f4 70 200 so teleconvertor would fit it would be a great starting point with aspc planning to go full frame?
I suppose it is the chicken and egg story. The FE 70-200 F/4 G was released before there were any converters. When they made the converters they made them so they would fit the newer 100-400 and 70-200 G Master lenses. I am sure if they could roll back the clock on the design of the F/4 G they would have done things differently.
Would you say the ISO performance using crop mode on a full frame would be the better or similar in a full frame camera vs Apsc sensor ?
Depends on the full frame camera - for the A7Rll and A7Rlll I would say yes but for the A7RlV I would say no.
Mark Galer's Alpha Creative Skills So let’s say for example A9ii in crop mode vs Sony A6600. A9ii would be cleaner at same ISO than a6600?
Mark, could you please give your opinions on the SAL500F40G 500mm F4 A-mount lens? I'm currently shooting the A99ii , but may in a few years move to an A7Riv (or equivalent), and was wondering what you think about the lens itself, and it's use on the mirrorless cameras via adapter? I'm just about to drop the $ for this lens, but would love your opinion first. Thanks!
I have not used this lens. I have adapted the SAL 70-400 Gll with good results.
@@AlphaCreativeSkills Aah, I was sure you would have! Oh well, I'm still really confident in the lens, and the pariing with my a99ii, so I'm looking forward to it. Thanks for the reply Mark!
Can you please review the Sony 16-55 2.8 for APS-C?
The obvious follow up for this video is Sony’s wide angle lenses- the 16-55 will feature in this video - I hope to have it out before Xmas
Thank you for this video! I'm not a professional photographer, but I love it and know something about it.. So, I need a camera to photograph my dogs (dogs are my profesion) and this is very helpful! I'm looking for a cheapest option with animal eye af and I think I'm going to buy used aps-c (a6400) with a up to 200mm lens for a full frame.. That would be 300mm on aps-c if I've got that wright, and thats enough for me and when I would have more money I could upgrade to a9 and keep the lens
Woah I've just find out the 2xtelephoto converter.. Will that make the 70-200fullframe lens to a 210-600 equivalent on aps-c?? If so, thats all I need.. Im out! 😁
Your maths is correct, If you are using a sony 7-200 to capture rapidly running dogs then I recommend the Mark II version of the 70-200 GM. If your budget does not extend to this then you should consider the E 70-350 G OSS. It won't take the converters but it has a full-frame equivalent zoom range of 105 to 525mm.
The 100-400 mm has such a close focus that I can see no real alternative for my small mammal work, (1-2m) shame about the price
It's a great lens I use a lot but pricey indeed
I had sold my 100400GM when Sony released the 200600G. You know what? Regretted it big time. Just repurchased the 100400GM....keeping both. They compliment each other.