Just uploaded a little video to my UA-cam channel about the gear that I use for wildlife / bird photography. Check it out and let me know what you think. Please subscribe to my UA-cam channel for more videos that will be coming soon :-)
Good video, I love seeing other people's gear. I'd break future videos to 5 minutes. More people will watch four 5 minute videos than will watch one 20 minute video. On a related note: Gah! Lens envy.
Good work Glen! I like how you, the non gear-junkie you are, made a gear video. Love it! Next I'd like to see a 'tips for street photography' video. Please!
I'm excited by the new Nikon D500 with the DX crop factor and 12 fps rate....but not enough to trade the D800E in for. But, we'll see in a year after people review it. The price can't be beat for 2 grand.
Great and honest video! Really enjoyed watching this (as well as your other videos). I must say that you are not good for my wallet but then again, I knew this wasn't one of the cheapest hobbies I would get myself into. I got a question though. Looking at where I am heading I'd probably skip the 500mm and take the 600mm. As my funds aren't limited I'd have to use my 5D M3. Would you still recommend a 1.4 teleconverter without the crop factor on the body or would you pick the 2? Hope to hear from you and thanks again for all the effort in your videos!
hi I decided to go with the canon 300mm F4 and 70-200 2.8 mark 1 lenses. I also have the normal kits lenses such as 24-105 ef 55-250 efs 18-55 efs and also have a sigma 1.4ex and canon mark 1's 1.4 and 2x extenders do you feel I need to buy the tamron 150-600mm I am using the 600d so is a 1.6 crop lens but still wondering if it is some thing I should buy or is what I have more than good enough. any opinion would be nice thanks./////////////''''
Geat video. I shoot sports and love the 7D. I have a 1D4 now, but my 7D gets equal use. 300mm f4 IS was my first red ring, and I still have it and love it.
I like the video Honesty is my policy and from what I hear from you your a straight up guy. Im really looking at the 100/400 L series canon 4.5 5.6 . I want a lens for birds and deer that are camera shy. Will the 100/400 work well with a converter like the 1.4 . I don't hav3ealot of money . This lens runs about the same as the 300 and the 400 and the 100/400 will I get near the same quality pictures with the zoom versus the prime. Thanks .Kelly
hey Glenn which one do you recommend to use for Canon RF 100-500m a gimbal or a ball head? If it is a ball head which brand and model? I am also thinking to get the benro 38CL tripod. I am starting to learn the bad side of the budget equipments that I am using so I am looking for the best bang for the buck. Great videos! Thanks in advanced!
I just bought a kata bumble bee 222 L its the best bag ive ever seen They are expensive but wow is there room . I use to have a lowe pro and its was brutal to use. Check um out. kelly
Sounds like a good job. I am in the field pretty well all day. I run my own gardening business in south east Queensland Australia. I try and keep my camera handy for those unexpected shots. I am currently using a nikon d7000 with an 18-105mm nikon lens, which has been working well. The sigma 150-500mm f 5-6.3 will be my next lens. I can't justify a more expensive lens when it is just for fun. Enjoyed the video, thanks. Geoff.
Hello Glenn! Wish to send you a very big T H A N K for your excellent - right to the Point-Great-Advice and the all-important practical use and needs to make the photographing really working outdoors! Well presented and also communicated in a nice and interesting way! Thank you so very very much Glenn! Wishing you all the very best and even more great shoots outdoors with you wild-Life-photography! /Charl
for my wildlife photography I carry 3 lenses Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 (OS Version), Sigma 300-800mm f/5.6 and a Canon 16-35mm f2.8, and I use the Canon 7D
It is a good lens and very versatile. The problem for me is that I would ue it almost exclusively at 400mm and there are better options at that focal length (i.e 300mm f/4 + 1.4x or 400mm 5.6). Also note that there will likely be a new 100-400mm coming soon. Cheers! Glenn
nice video I just use a bridge camera I wouldn't know whr to start with all the equipment you use,ive been in manual mode for over a year just zoroing the camera meter to get good exposures according to the camera with good results,is that a good way for me to be practicing?
Thanks Glenn for your thoughts on equipment and why you purchased it. I have not done much wildlife photography but it is a subject I am learning more about.
hi glenn what do you know about the canon 2x extender mark 1? I managed to buy a cheap one from japan as wll as the 1.4 is it worth upgrading to mark 2 or even 3? their is not much info out their
I have been watching your videos and I must say it inspired me a lot. I am an amateur photographer and I use an entry level Canon 600D. I mostly like Nature and Wildlife photography and occasionally I do some street photography. Recently I have been planning to buy a good telephoto zoom lens and one of my friend said that using a good telephoto lens with a entry level camera might not be a good idea and that I should go for a good camera body too. Can you share some advice in this regard ?
Lenses are definitely the most important piece of the puzzle. So I would disagree with your friend on this one. I would upgrade to a good telephoto before upgrading your body. Check out my gear page on my site (see link in the video description). Maybe the 300mm f/4 is a good fit for you?
Glenn Bartley Thank you. One other thing, I have looked into the gear page of your site before and now looking at it again. I see most of your telephoto lenses are prime and I have seen almost every wildlife photographer out there use prime telephoto lens rather using something that has variable range. You have been out doing photography for a long time did it ever occurred to you in anyway just using 300mm or 400mm and you found something good that is out of range and no way of going near ? The whole idea of using prime telephoto is little bit unclear to me. I would definitely check out 300mm f/4 as you suggested but before this I was actually planning to buy sigma 150-500mm.
could you please tell me if your 600 has far better IQ compared to a 300 2.8 with 2x .I'm sitting on the fence at the moment and cant decide weather to get on thanks John
Hi.. I'm a beginner in photography and on a tight budget. Can you suggest a good Nikon/Canon camera and lense under $1000. Looking for one with a decent zoom/mm, very good in low light, good no of clicks per second etc. since I want to start my wildlife photography using the camera I buy. Please keep that in mind.
Fair enough.. Can you suggest a good camera and lens for a starter like me assuming I have enough funds, but obviously not too expensive. Something like a value for money buy.. Thanks.
Low light? Look for an f/2.8 or better lens. Wildlife you need longer lenses. Unforunately, long f/2.8 lenses are expensive. My 300 f/2.8 IS II was $7,000. Be ready to drop some cash if you want to hardcore be into photography. I've spend about $2500 this week alone on lighting gear. lol.
hi sir, how can you afford this big lens, do you have any tips on how you able to buy those lens like what are you doing to sell your photography and make money to get the equipment.
I'm thinking of purchasing an refurbished Canon 300mm f/2.8 ii for sports but I was wondering if the 300mm will be adequate also for wildlife/birding if I use tele converters? I know sharpness and af speed will take an hit....
The 300 2.8 is a really solid lens for wildlife. Especially if you shoot stuff other than birds. It will take a 2x converter nicely. If you have the light to stop down to f/8 it will be even better. Overall it is a GREAT combo!
thx for the reply now i cant wait for my first serious wildlife/sports lens to arrive and i do have an 1d mark 4 an 5d iii which both have good high iso performance and af at f8 so i think itll be an good combination :-)
There are plenty folks that use the 300 2.8II with the 1.4/2.0 tc with great success. Check out Fred Miranda and other wildlife forums. You will definitely be ok with this combo.
Hello Glenn! Coincidentally i live in Campbell River, and also love bird/wildlife photography. I am an amateur, and my photos aren't that great. But taking wildlife photos is addicting, as you always hunting for that perfect shot. I don't currently have a ton of money, and i was thinking about getting a Tamron 150-600mm F5.6-6.3 lens for my T5i. it is between $1000-$1500. Do you think this is a good lens? I also have a Canon 55-250mm lens and a Canon 18-55mm lens.
This is the first time im hearing about using flash in wildlife. I always thought it would startle the birds and animals, also whats the use of it if your subject is 400m away?
Bill Van Every Yup. Since seeing this video I have tested it out and its pretty good, but the problem is I hate carrying a tripod and shooting handheld with a flash is too much.
Thanks for the cool video - i can also recommend this video if you want to learn how to travel as light as possible on a wildlife trip Wildlife photography equipment [ What to take for a safari]
Hey Glenn, Thanks for your comment on Canon 400mm f/5.6. I was thinking about buying one for bird photography. Question, is Canon 400mm f/5.6 a good lens if you bring it to do safari photography?
Minier For Safari photos I'd go with the new 100-400mm for the versatility. Please see - www.glennbartley.com/naturephotography/articles/gear.htm All the best! Glenn
Hey Glenn, thanks for making interesting and informative videos! I fell in love with the bird video you made a little while ago and look forward to seeing more from you. If you ever fashion an enthusiastic sidekick to make you coffee while she quietly peeks over your shoulder to learn more about wildlife photography be sure to hit me up! Cheers!
I am a beginner in photography and I have been thinking about a new prime lens. I have a Canon DSLR and I was thinking maybe the 300mm F/4 or the 400mm f/5.6. What do you think? Is the 300mm as sharp as the 400mm, when i put on a teleconverter that will bake them both 400mm f/5.6. What about the IS in the 300mm? Is it worth the extra bucks? Thank you for repying
I think the 300mm is a more versatile choice. Very close min focus distance and great optics. I own both....but if I had to pick one between these two it would be the 300.
The macro will alow for closer focus and therefore more magnification. Typically macro lenses allow for at least 1/1 magnification meaning that the subject in real life will also be the same (1/1) size on the film (or digital sensor).
Glenn Bartley Thanks, Glenn. Maybe you explained it and I don't understand, but I thought 100mm meant 100mm. Maybe I don't understand the relationship between the 100mm and the magnification? How does one 100mm lens provide greater magnification than another 100mm lens when they're both 100mm? Isn't the 100mm a form of magnification in the first place?
You should do a review on the 400 5.6 prime alone, there is no other true review out there yet this is thee most common bird lens for anyone and everyone. Remember not many people have the money or arm strength to mess around with 500 and 600mm lens. The 400 5.6 is a perfect walk around lens esp on a crop sensor with out a tri or monopod. When shooting small perching birds this lens can get a shot handheld under thick canopy all day without getting tired from weight. If you shoot shore birds or eagle nests, use it with a teleconverter on a tripod. 1.4 on a crop gives you almost 900mm view, plus you can still crop down a bit. The upcoming 7D2 with the AF at f8 and great high iso may be a pure perfect match for people that don't have $12k to spend on a lens alone.Even for people who don't have $1800 for a body a used 7d, 60d, 50d with this lens still is a good option. The weight, cost, and pure sharpness makes the 400 5.6 the all time king for people who are hobby or enthusiast bird shooting that are not going to be in a rain forest..ever. Your reviews are awesome, you should really do one just on that lens alone!
Canon's 400 f5.6 actually has a major shortcoming for the uses you refer to. You claim that it can get handheld shots of small perched birds under a thick canopy. This is normally a horrible way to use this lens, as it does not have any image stabilization. "Under a thick canopy" means you will typically have very little light to work with. 400mm + low light + hand holding normally results in unacceptable images due to blur (softness) caused by minute camera movement(s) during the time the shutter is open. For times when there is a lot of light, this lens can be hand held and produce acceptable results, especially when used with a camera with a full frame sensor. But for any low light situation, you really need rigid camera support to consistently get razor sharp images at long focal lengths.
Tom Reichner Or they better be ready to spend some extra cash on either the 1Dx or 5D3 for that better higher ISO capability, so they can get higher SS with the f5.6 lens. There's always some give and/or take in this thing called nature photography.
Hi glenn, i and people i've managed to talk to online have had problems with the 7D and the Mk2 600 F4. Basically quite bad focus inconsistancy with both front and back focussing that can't be solved with MFA. I actually returned a new 600 mk2 i bought because it was so bad compared to my old 500 IS. What has your experience been with keeper rates with the 7d + 600 mk2? In all tests, mine was at 50-60% focussing on a wall! My 7D + 500 IS Mk1 was at 95% plus.
I also would like know what kind of suitcase you are transporting the Gitzo GT3542XLS. I am on the market for a new tripod and really like the idea of having some extra high, but with a folded lenght of 72cm it might be unpractical. Thanks Norman
Hi Glenn ^__^ nice to meet you, if you dont mind me asking what is your advice for someone barely starting out, where do we get started, and what kind of gear can we get for beginners. :) thank you so much for your time and I enjoyed this video.
Hi Glenn, Very informative video. I am wondering if you could comment on how you pack all that gear when you are on the road. I am particularly interested in your expierence on air-travelling with the 600 mm f4.0. The new version much lighter, but it is still a monster of a lens....
Hi Glenn, I really appreciate your videos!......... I was wondering if you could do a video just on using flash for bird photography...typical scenarios, settings etc. That would be really helpful for all of us just learning to add flash to our shots
This was an excellent video. But the only problem with it was that you use canon and you explained only about canon. You don't own any other like Nikon or Sony or whatever else. But you should at least consider giving your opinion on the gears that go with Nikon or others, especially Nikon!
Methodical2 Because "gear", when used this way, is a collective noun see the following link for an official explanation about when "gear" or "gears" should be used: www.learnersdictionary.com/definition/gear
Tom Reichner Is this the Tom that frequents POTN? I recognize the name. Tom, my comment was to Sarvesh asking why the video needs to talk about Nikon or Sony gear.
Tom Reichner sorry but not everyone is born with perfect english typing abilities...and by the way, that was a typing mistake....I won't correct it. Thanks anyway :)
Awsome video. I learned a lot. I never even considered a flash for bird shooting. I wonder if you could do a video(i'm sure many people would like to see it) of you out in the field with your set-up and explaining some of the different scenerios in which a flash may come in handy and with what camera settings are used. Anyways... Thanks for this video.
400 will focus faster and may have a slight sharpness advantage. 300 has IS and will focus closer allowing more versatility. I'd go for the 300 myself.
If you are shooting wildlife then 300mm f4 because of IS and also if you have a crop sensored camera like i do then it becomes 480mm with IS which is really really good
Glenn Bartley Hey Glenn, just a heads up. You have an error on your equipment page about Canon's flash. You state "this is Canon's former top of the line Speedlite..." but title says 600 EX-RT. The 600 is the new top of line unit.
Just uploaded a little video to my UA-cam channel about the gear that I use for wildlife / bird photography. Check it out and let me know what you think.
Please subscribe to my UA-cam channel for more videos that will be coming soon :-)
Excellent presentation of your gear! Thanks!
Good video, I love seeing other people's gear. I'd break future videos to 5 minutes. More people will watch four 5 minute videos than will watch one 20 minute video.
On a related note: Gah! Lens envy.
good evening glen Glenn Bartley
Good work Glen! I like how you, the non gear-junkie you are, made a gear video. Love it!
Next I'd like to see a 'tips for street photography' video. Please!
***** The same as a new car.
I'm excited by the new Nikon D500 with the DX crop factor and 12 fps rate....but not enough to trade the D800E in for. But, we'll see in a year after people review it. The price can't be beat for 2 grand.
+kanukster It's basically the D5 in a crop body (at least on paper) which is freaking phenomenal I can't wait to get my hands on it!
Great and honest video! Really enjoyed watching this (as well as your other videos). I must say that you are not good for my wallet but then again, I knew this wasn't one of the cheapest hobbies I would get myself into. I got a question though.
Looking at where I am heading I'd probably skip the 500mm and take the 600mm. As my funds aren't limited I'd have to use my 5D M3. Would you still recommend a 1.4 teleconverter without the crop factor on the body or would you pick the 2?
Hope to hear from you and thanks again for all the effort in your videos!
hi I decided to go with the canon 300mm F4 and 70-200 2.8 mark 1 lenses. I also have the normal kits lenses such as 24-105 ef 55-250 efs 18-55 efs and also have a sigma 1.4ex and canon mark 1's 1.4 and 2x extenders do you feel I need to buy the tamron 150-600mm I am using the 600d so is a 1.6 crop lens but still wondering if it is some thing I should buy or is what I have more than good enough. any opinion would be nice thanks./////////////''''
Geat video. I shoot sports and love the 7D. I have a 1D4 now, but my 7D gets equal use. 300mm f4 IS was my first red ring, and I still have it and love it.
I like the video Honesty is my policy and from what I hear from you your a straight up guy. Im really looking at the 100/400 L series canon 4.5 5.6 . I want a lens for birds and deer that are camera shy. Will the 100/400 work well with a converter like the 1.4 . I don't hav3ealot of money . This lens runs about the same as the 300 and the 400 and the 100/400 will I get near the same quality pictures with the zoom versus the prime. Thanks .Kelly
hey Glenn which one do you recommend to use for Canon RF 100-500m a gimbal or a ball head? If it is a ball head which brand and model? I am also thinking to get the benro 38CL tripod. I am starting to learn the bad side of the budget equipments that I am using so I am looking for the best bang for the buck.
Great videos! Thanks in advanced!
If thats your biggest lens I'd go ball head. One from Really Right Stuff maybe.
I just bought a kata bumble bee 222 L its the best bag ive ever seen They are expensive but wow is there room . I use to have a lowe pro and its was brutal to use. Check um out. kelly
Did you realise you had horns on your head? :P lol
No...but that's awesome!
Glenn I'm interested to know if you have, or plan to, review the Canon M6 mark 2? I'm considering it as a spare to my 7dmkii.
No plans to review that one at the moment.
Sounds like a good job. I am in the field pretty well all day. I run my own gardening business in south east Queensland Australia. I try and keep my camera handy for those unexpected shots. I am currently using a nikon d7000 with an 18-105mm nikon lens, which has been working well. The sigma 150-500mm f 5-6.3 will be my next lens. I can't justify a more expensive lens when it is just for fun. Enjoyed the video, thanks.
Geoff.
Hello Glenn! Wish to send you a very big T H A N K for your excellent - right to the Point-Great-Advice and the all-important practical use and needs to make the photographing really working outdoors! Well presented and also communicated in a nice and interesting way! Thank you so very very much Glenn! Wishing you all the very best and even more great shoots outdoors with you wild-Life-photography! /Charl
You should sell the cheaper 300 and 400 and get a 200 f/2 then you can get extenders and have everything from 200-1200. ;)
Very profession!
for my wildlife photography I carry 3 lenses Sigma 50-500mm f/4.5-6.3 (OS Version), Sigma 300-800mm f/5.6 and a Canon 16-35mm f2.8, and I use the Canon 7D
It is a good lens and very versatile. The problem for me is that I would ue it almost exclusively at 400mm and there are better options at that focal length (i.e 300mm f/4 + 1.4x or 400mm 5.6).
Also note that there will likely be a new 100-400mm coming soon.
Cheers!
Glenn
nice video I just use a bridge camera I wouldn't know whr to start with all the equipment you use,ive been in manual mode for over a year just zoroing the camera meter to get good exposures according to the camera with good results,is that a good way for me to be practicing?
Excellent video!! I want to start bird photography and my obvious question is: What about Canon 800mm f5.6? Thanks
A 17-40 lens in a cropped sensor camera is not that wide, but still good lens.... c:
True!
How does one get paid to take pictures of wildlife?
selling your images or magazines. thats basically it.
I can only conclude that you don't hike very far and you don't stay overnight unless you have a pack animal.
from a photography point of view all I can see is the clock that looks like its part of your head
Thanks Glenn for your thoughts on equipment and why you purchased it. I have not done much wildlife photography but it is a subject I am learning more about.
hi glenn what do you know about the canon 2x extender mark 1? I managed to buy a cheap one from japan as wll as the 1.4 is it worth upgrading to mark 2 or even 3? their is not much info out their
Technologyadvisor1 The new ones are much better. Especially the 2x.
I have been watching your videos and I must say it inspired me a lot. I am an amateur photographer and I use an entry level Canon 600D. I mostly like Nature and Wildlife photography and occasionally I do some street photography. Recently I have been planning to buy a good telephoto zoom lens and one of my friend said that using a good telephoto lens with a entry level camera might not be a good idea and that I should go for a good camera body too. Can you share some advice in this regard ?
Lenses are definitely the most important piece of the puzzle. So I would disagree with your friend on this one. I would upgrade to a good telephoto before upgrading your body. Check out my gear page on my site (see link in the video description). Maybe the 300mm f/4 is a good fit for you?
Glenn Bartley Thank you. One other thing, I have looked into the gear page of your site before and now looking at it again. I see most of your telephoto lenses are prime and I have seen almost every wildlife photographer out there use prime telephoto lens rather using something that has variable range. You have been out doing photography for a long time did it ever occurred to you in anyway just using 300mm or 400mm and you found something good that is out of range and no way of going near ? The whole idea of using prime telephoto is little bit unclear to me. I would definitely check out 300mm f/4 as you suggested but before this I was actually planning to buy sigma 150-500mm.
Awesome information dude! I have to write an essay on wildlife photography for my Diploma and you have help immensely!
what is your thoughts on 70-200 f4 non is lens for biginner wildlife photography?
I think it is to short.
Maybe a used Tokina 300mm 2.8?
It costs about 500-600 bucks.
Great video, very informative. Thanks for taking the time to do it! Cheers from Kamloops!
could you please tell me if your 600 has far better IQ compared to a 300 2.8 with 2x .I'm sitting on the fence at the moment and cant decide weather to get on thanks John
Yes the 600 f/4 would win. These primes will always perform better without a TC.
Glen thanks for the reply
I'd stick to the newest crop body available. D7200?
+Glenn Bartley hi, do you know anything about the 100-400 mark ii?
is it as good as the 400mm f/5.6?
Good video, very useful, thanks
Hi.. I'm a beginner in photography and on a tight budget. Can you suggest a good Nikon/Canon camera and lense under $1000. Looking for one with a decent zoom/mm, very good in low light, good no of clicks per second etc. since I want to start my wildlife photography using the camera I buy. Please keep that in mind.
Fair enough.. Can you suggest a good camera and lens for a starter like me assuming I have enough funds, but obviously not too expensive. Something like a value for money buy.. Thanks.
Good feedback re. Canon 7D. You can probably pick a 7D up used and maybe a 300mm f/4 together for under 2k
Low light? Look for an f/2.8 or better lens. Wildlife you need longer lenses. Unforunately, long f/2.8 lenses are expensive. My 300 f/2.8 IS II was $7,000. Be ready to drop some cash if you want to hardcore be into photography. I've spend about $2500 this week alone on lighting gear. lol.
hi sir, how can you afford this big lens, do you have any tips on how you able to buy those lens like what are you doing to sell your photography and make money to get the equipment.
I love the latest digital photography cameras. Thank for the equipment video you've put up here. Regards
I'm thinking of purchasing an refurbished Canon 300mm f/2.8 ii for sports but I was wondering if the 300mm will be adequate also for wildlife/birding if I use tele converters? I know sharpness and af speed will take an hit....
The 300 2.8 is a really solid lens for wildlife. Especially if you shoot stuff other than birds. It will take a 2x converter nicely. If you have the light to stop down to f/8 it will be even better. Overall it is a GREAT combo!
thx for the reply now i cant wait for my first serious wildlife/sports lens to arrive and i do have an 1d mark 4 an 5d iii which both have good high iso performance and af at f8 so i think itll be an good combination :-)
There are plenty folks that use the 300 2.8II with the 1.4/2.0 tc with great success. Check out Fred Miranda and other wildlife forums. You will definitely be ok with this combo.
This video was perfect - thank you so much! It answered all my questions.
I havent had any issues with mine so far. Performed really well while I was in Arizona.
Hello Glenn! Coincidentally i live in Campbell River, and also love bird/wildlife photography. I am an amateur, and my photos aren't that great. But taking wildlife photos is addicting, as you always hunting for that perfect shot. I don't currently have a ton of money, and i was thinking about getting a Tamron 150-600mm F5.6-6.3 lens for my T5i. it is between $1000-$1500. Do you think this is a good lens? I also have a Canon 55-250mm lens and a Canon 18-55mm lens.
I think personally I would go for a 300mm f/4 and 1.4x for around $1500.
This is the first time im hearing about using flash in wildlife. I always thought it would startle the birds and animals, also whats the use of it if your subject is 400m away?
Hert Niks it is good for catch lights and adding color and if iso is grainy(noisy) and flash will help
Bill Van Every led lights work well too
LimoStudio 2PC LED 160 Photographic Lighting Kit, Photo Studio Barndoor Light, Continuous Video Light, AGG1274
Bill Van Every Yup. Since seeing this video I have tested it out and its pretty good, but the problem is I hate carrying a tripod and shooting handheld with a flash is too much.
Hi Glenn! Very useful information. Thanks for Sharing.
They are wonderful :) also i suggest you to try once Youpic to explore this art...best of luck!
Thanks for the cool video - i can also recommend this video if you want to learn how to travel as light as possible on a wildlife trip Wildlife photography equipment [ What to take for a safari]
prefer nikon to canon.. canon has that awful motor screech when mirror is lifted
Hey Glenn, Thanks for your comment on Canon 400mm f/5.6. I was thinking about buying one for bird photography. Question, is Canon 400mm f/5.6 a good lens if you bring it to do safari photography?
Minier For Safari photos I'd go with the new 100-400mm for the versatility.
Please see - www.glennbartley.com/naturephotography/articles/gear.htm
All the best!
Glenn
Hey Glenn, thanks for making interesting and informative videos! I fell in love with the bird video you made a little while ago and look forward to seeing more from you. If you ever fashion an enthusiastic sidekick to make you coffee while she quietly peeks over your shoulder to learn more about wildlife photography be sure to hit me up! Cheers!
would the 400mm be good for photographing larger animals like deer at a distance?
Can you recommend any Nikon bodies for bird/wildlife photography.
I am a beginner in photography and I have been thinking about a new prime lens. I have a Canon DSLR and I was thinking maybe the 300mm F/4 or the 400mm f/5.6. What do you think? Is the 300mm as sharp as the 400mm, when i put on a teleconverter that will bake them both 400mm f/5.6. What about the IS in the 300mm? Is it worth the extra bucks? Thank you for repying
I think the 300mm is a more versatile choice. Very close min focus distance and great optics. I own both....but if I had to pick one between these two it would be the 300.
Glenn Bartley What if I got the 70-300mm f/4-5.6 is usm ( Not L-series).
Would you choose the 300mm anyways?
go for L
Jon Hansen
Jon, chances are if the 300mm you're talking about is a prime lens, it's going to have better glass than the 70-300mm telephoto.
what do you think of the 100-400 l is usm lens?
Great Video thanks Glenn Bartley
What's the difference between a 100mm lens and a 100mm macro lens? What is it that differentiates them if they're both 100mm?
The macro will alow for closer focus and therefore more magnification. Typically macro lenses allow for at least 1/1 magnification meaning that the subject in real life will also be the same (1/1) size on the film (or digital sensor).
Glenn Bartley
Thanks, Glenn. Maybe you explained it and I don't understand, but I thought 100mm meant 100mm. Maybe I don't understand the relationship between the 100mm and the magnification?
How does one 100mm lens provide greater magnification than another 100mm lens when they're both 100mm?
Isn't the 100mm a form of magnification in the first place?
I'll try to get one up in the near future. Thanks for watching!
Glenn
Exactly my thoughts :)
I have been doing bird photography with my 100-400 since quite some time and I'd love to hear about the use of flash from you!
or a Gitzo monopod with a wide stance works just as well?!!....
Great nice beautiful video photography, u can also publish in Youpic
You need Pentax gear! Will stop you to buy so many rain shields!
You should do a review on the 400 5.6 prime alone, there is no other true review out there yet this is thee most common bird lens for anyone and everyone. Remember not many people have the money or arm strength to mess around with 500 and 600mm lens. The 400 5.6 is a perfect walk around lens esp on a crop sensor with out a tri or monopod. When shooting small perching birds this lens can get a shot handheld under thick canopy all day without getting tired from weight. If you shoot shore birds or eagle nests, use it with a teleconverter on a tripod. 1.4 on a crop gives you almost 900mm view, plus you can still crop down a bit. The upcoming 7D2 with the AF at f8 and great high iso may be a pure perfect match for people that don't have $12k to spend on a lens alone.Even for people who don't have $1800 for a body a used 7d, 60d, 50d with this lens still is a good option. The weight, cost, and pure sharpness makes the 400 5.6 the all time king for people who are hobby or enthusiast bird shooting that are not going to be in a rain forest..ever. Your reviews are awesome, you should really do one just on that lens alone!
Canon's 400 f5.6 actually has a major shortcoming for the uses you refer to. You claim that it can get handheld shots of small perched birds under a thick canopy. This is normally a horrible way to use this lens, as it does not have any image stabilization. "Under a thick canopy" means you will typically have very little light to work with. 400mm + low light + hand holding normally results in unacceptable images due to blur (softness) caused by minute camera movement(s) during the time the shutter is open.
For times when there is a lot of light, this lens can be hand held and produce acceptable results, especially when used with a camera with a full frame sensor. But for any low light situation, you really need rigid camera support to consistently get razor sharp images at long focal lengths.
Tom Reichner Or they better be ready to spend some extra cash on either the 1Dx or 5D3 for that better higher ISO capability, so they can get higher SS with the f5.6 lens. There's always some give and/or take in this thing called nature photography.
Hi glenn, i and people i've managed to talk to online have had problems with the 7D and the Mk2 600 F4. Basically quite bad focus inconsistancy with both front and back focussing that can't be solved with MFA. I actually returned a new 600 mk2 i bought because it was so bad compared to my old 500 IS.
What has your experience been with keeper rates with the 7d + 600 mk2? In all tests, mine was at 50-60% focussing on a wall! My 7D + 500 IS Mk1 was at 95% plus.
I have a question. Which lens will give you a better quality image on the sensor camera 7 d mark II, the 400/5. 6 or 300/4. 0? Best regards.
Please refer to my "400mm shootout" video.
I also would like know what kind of suitcase you are transporting the Gitzo GT3542XLS. I am on the market for a new tripod and really like the idea of having some extra high, but with a folded lenght of 72cm it might be unpractical. Thanks Norman
Hi Glenn ^__^ nice to meet you, if you dont mind me asking what is your advice for someone barely starting out, where do we get started, and what kind of gear can we get for beginners. :) thank you so much for your time and I enjoyed this video.
Hi Glenn,
Very informative video. I am wondering if you could comment on how you pack all that gear when you are on the road. I am particularly interested in your expierence on air-travelling with the 600 mm f4.0. The new version much lighter, but it is still a monster of a lens....
CANON EQUIPMENT👏👏👏👏👏👏
Hi Glenn, I really appreciate your videos!......... I was wondering if you could do a video just on using flash for bird photography...typical scenarios, settings etc. That would be really helpful for all of us just learning to add flash to our shots
This was an excellent video. But the only problem with it was that you use canon and you explained only about canon. You don't own any other like Nikon or Sony or whatever else. But you should at least consider giving your opinion on the gears that go with Nikon or others, especially Nikon!
It's "gear", not "gears".
Why?
Methodical2 Because "gear", when used this way, is a collective noun
see the following link for an official explanation about when "gear" or "gears" should be used:
www.learnersdictionary.com/definition/gear
Tom Reichner Is this the Tom that frequents POTN? I recognize the name. Tom, my comment was to Sarvesh asking why the video needs to talk about Nikon or Sony gear.
Tom Reichner sorry but not everyone is born with perfect english typing abilities...and by the way, that was a typing mistake....I won't correct it. Thanks anyway :)
Glenn an excellent video regarding equipment, thanks David
hey whats better for mammals and some birds , the 1D mark 3 or the 7D??
yash turkar 1d mark3
or just go with a nikon d3s
Bill Van Every 10 fps on a 1.3x cropped sensor is my bread and butter
Go Canadian for explaining things so clearly! :)
Glenn excellent presentation ,i really enjoyed watching and i learn alot
thanks
Awsome video. I learned a lot. I never even considered a flash for bird shooting. I wonder if you could do a video(i'm sure many people would like to see it) of you out in the field with your set-up and explaining some of the different scenerios in which a flash may come in handy and with what camera settings are used. Anyways... Thanks for this video.
Do you use any cover for such a large tripod?
i would love to have the blue one. lol please thank you for the info
glen 100-400 mark 2 vs 400 prime ?
also what do you think of the sigma 150-600 lens?
Technologyadvisor1 optically it is good. I found it difficult to lock focus though. Personally Id rather have a 100-400 v II
Hi Glenn, How do you find the Lowepro 600's size for air travel, commercial and puddle jumpers?
Cool video
Working in the tropics, how much do you worry about humidity harming your electronics?
I try to use silica gel if in humidity for extended periods.
Thank you for posting this,it helps.
good video, good info, thanks for putting it together
move the clock , looks like you have horns
johno
Hi, is the canon 300 mm f2.8 a good bird forography lens?
Constantin Freiberger yes definitely, and add a teleconverter for longer reach
Great great video! ;-) I really enjoyed it!
Fantastic video, very helpful!
Hey, what's better for birds: 300mm f4 IS with teleconverter or the 400mm f5.6 without a teleconverter and IS? Thanks!
400 will focus faster and may have a slight sharpness advantage. 300 has IS and will focus closer allowing more versatility. I'd go for the 300 myself.
If you are shooting wildlife then 300mm f4 because of IS and also if you have a crop sensored camera like i do then it becomes 480mm with IS which is really really good
Just remember that the 300mm 4.0 IS is only about 2 stops vs 4 stops on most lenses released in the last decade.
Thanks Glenn that would be fabulous! :)
which suv/atv --:)
А можно с переводом на русский?
Thanks for sharing..
Great video. What is that that ballhead called?
Please see - www.glennbartley.com/naturephotography/articles/gear.htm
Glenn Bartley Thanks!
Glenn Bartley Hey Glenn, just a heads up. You have an error on your equipment page about Canon's flash. You state "this is Canon's former top of the line Speedlite..." but title says 600 EX-RT. The 600 is the new top of line unit.