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Archive 2016 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice

  
 
gastch
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


With the D500 coming I've decided its time to switch out of my Pentax gear. I love the K3 but the lack of modern lenses and third party support is finally waying on me. With that I'm looking at getting a Sigma 150-600 C or S or the Nikon 200-500. I have looked at images from there respective threads on here and still can't decide. Especially since all we have to compare to at the moment are FX bodies and D7xxx
Is there any consensus on which lens has the better IQ?

As a side question I wonder if I should switch to a D750 or 610 rather than D500. I was thinking going Canon 7Dmkii even with its issue until the D500 was announced. Now that I see it being 3K here in Canada the 5Dmkiii also comes into the picture. I do wildlife photography and fly fishing photo's manly. Alot of smaller birds in the winter and fishing photo's on trips. But I'd like to move more into BIF and putting in the time in blinds waiting for other animals like moose,bear dear ,fox etc since I do that all fall while hunting anyways.

All thoughts welcome



Jan 12, 2016 at 03:31 PM
hijazist
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


There is no consensus AFAIK as to which lens is better in terms of IQ. My personal impression is that the 200-500 has a tad edge in that regard. I've had the Sigma for a while but not the Nikon, so take it with a grain of salt. The Sigma offers a better zoom range while the Nikon offers a constant aperture. Both lenses are never going to achieve prime-like IQ, but for the price they're brilliant.

If you mainly shoot wildlife then the D500 makes a lot of sense, although I would wait for real-life reviews. We still don't know anything about the new sensor or the new AF system. I have the D750 and although it's a great body, I would switch to the D500 in an instant if I were solely doing wildlife. The crop factor and FPS alone are worth it.

The D500 took us by surprise!



Jan 12, 2016 at 04:06 PM
architect7
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I really like my 200-500mm f5.6E but the Sigma 150-600mm Sports is very good with pro level AF. I've used the 200-500 f5.6E on a D7200 and the results were very good, similar to the stellar results I get on my D810 but things fell apart when I added a TC. Adding a TC to the 200-500 on D810 is still very good but then you're losing the crop factor. 99% of what I shoot is wildlife and the D500 was an immediate preorder for me. I'll try it with my 200-500 and it will probably be acceptable for most of what I do for being such a lightweight combo but I do miss fast AF acquisition of my pro teles when I use my 200-500. I agree with others as well, the 200-400 has better micro-contrast and finite detail when you're pixel peeping but the 200-500mm has very good overall contrast, especially when compared to putting a TC on other lenses.

Edited on Jan 12, 2016 at 05:58 PM · View previous versions



Jan 12, 2016 at 04:24 PM
Christian H
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


The 200-500 is a surprisingly nice lens. It's stunning from 200 to 400 mm, and still very good at 500 mm. Sharp wide open from corner to corner (especially on DX) and with very good AF speed and accuracy. In good light, it rivals the 80-400 and 200-400 in image quality. You take a small micro-contrast penalty in overcast conditions and in low light, but that's about it.

Now, the files aren't as crisp as those produced by the f/4 500 or f/4 200-400 - contrast and resolution aren't QUITE there - but in no way do they scream "cheap zoom." There are no weird artifacts, bokeh is neutral, and the colors are what Nikon shooters would expect. In other words, the results are not cringe-inducing - at any focal length and subject distance - which is a first for an affordable superzoom. I plan to take a D500 and 200-500 to Alaska this summer.


Here's an example. Shot in bright winter sun with a D7000, f/7.1, 1/800, 440 mm, ISO 1000, 50% crop from a 16 mp file.

Blaumeise by Christian Hunold, on Flickr



Jan 12, 2016 at 04:48 PM
pw-pix
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I don't think you'd go too far wrong with any of those new long tele zooms on a D500.
The Tamron 150-600 zooms the same direction as Nikon, The Sigma Sport is better but heavier, the Nikon 200-500 seems to be a really good thing too.
If it were me, I might go the Tamron since it will be equivalent to a 225-750mm on the DX body, that seems like a great range for your intended use.
A handy and manageable package that should allow great results in field conditions.



Jan 12, 2016 at 05:49 PM
werds
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice



pw-pix wrote:
If it were me, I might go the Tamron since it will be equivalent to a 225-750mm on the DX body, that seems like a great range for your intended use


225-900mm field of view equivalency.

Edited on Jan 12, 2016 at 11:42 PM · View previous versions



Jan 12, 2016 at 09:37 PM
Craig Gillette
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p.1 #7 · p.1 #7 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


The D610 and D750 are really good all purpose cameras, the D750 being pretty much the same AF system as the D7200 without the reach advantage or the better af point spread across the frame. But neither will keep up with the D500 when it comes to af performance, reach, frames per second. There are a lot of threads and articles discussing choosing between the D7200, D610 and D750 out there. The D500 will likely be a fine all purpose body too, just adds a huge performance jump in the focus system and frame rate on top of that.


Jan 12, 2016 at 09:54 PM
morris
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p.1 #8 · p.1 #8 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I've tried all of them, the Tamron and the Sigma C are about the same. The Nikon and Sigma S are both a delight to use. I own the Sigma S, this is feather detail wide open:

011016DSC_4898 by Morris Altman, on Flickr

D300 + Sigma 150-600 @ 600mm, ISO 800, 1/50, f6.3

Morris

Edited on Jan 13, 2016 at 06:28 PM · View previous versions



Jan 12, 2016 at 11:31 PM
Lance B
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p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I am another old Pentaxian since 1981 and film, went through the various Pentax DSLR's, *ist D, K0D, K20D, then K7 but switched to a Nikon D700 in May 2010 and it was the best thing I ever did. Not to say that I didn't like my Pentax gear, I did, they had some fantastic lenses and I owned most of them! FA31, FA43 and FA77 Limited's, A*200 f2.8, FA*28-70 f2.8, FA*80-200 f2.8, DA* 300 f4, FA*300 f4.5, DA15 Limited, DA14 f2.8 DA*55 f1.4, just to name a few. However, like you, Pentax just didn't seem to be going anywhere fast and I wanted a pro-spec system - had a few issues with the K7 and the SR.

As for your dilemma. The Sigma 150-600 both C and S are excellent, the S is supposed to be a tad sharper than the C according to the reviewers that have used both, like Brad Hill. The S is supposed to have a very slight edge over the 200-500 @ 500 but at a weight and price penalty. BIF it also had a very slight edge, according to Brad HIll. See Brad Hill's blog:
http://www.naturalart.ca/voice/blog.html#200-500FIRST

Scroll down the page to see the necessary entries.

I have the 200-500 and think it is a fantastic lens for the price, it is well made sharp and the AF speed is adequate. However, I also have the 300 f2.8 VRII and the 400 f2.8E FL VR and you have to understand what level or IQ and performance I am coming from! I purchased the 200-500 as my travel long lens option rather than take either of the two primes. I won't try to sway you to either the Nikon or the Sigma as they are both great lenses for the money, it really comes down to whether you want a lighter cheaper lens in the 200-500 or a heavier dearer lens with the Sigma. I obviously opted for the former due to travel considerations. I could post some images, but no-one posts their rubbish, just their great shots and they are usually excellent, which is completely understandable, I do it myself.

As for whether to go for the D500 or a D750 or D610, I would go with the D500 as you will be mainly shooting wildlife and the extra "reach" will be beneficial. I shoot the D810 but I have also just pre-ordered a D500 for my birding purposes.



Jan 13, 2016 at 01:23 AM
Amrit
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p.1 #10 · p.1 #10 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


Nikon 200-500 review

http://www.dslrbodies.com/lenses/nikon-lens-reviews/nikon-200-500mm-f56-lens.html



Jan 13, 2016 at 02:57 AM
pw-pix
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p.1 #11 · p.1 #11 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


Silly me, I think I worked it out thinking it was 500mm, not 600mm.


Jan 13, 2016 at 03:39 AM
CritterRacing
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p.1 #12 · p.1 #12 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


Id like to add to this topic. I have a sigma sport and the nikon 300 PF E. I shoot with a d7200 and a d750.

I was in love with the sport, such a high quaility piece. When i switched focus to dynamic mode it was even better.

Then i tried the nikon 300vr in the camera store. Had to buy one the next day. This is the best lens ive ever owned and ive had alot. Its so sharp on my d7200, that i feel its to sharp. Its gunna be perfect with a tc when i finally get one.

On my d7200 100 percent crops are just beautiful.

Focus locks on so fast and just wont let go. The vr is the best yet, Blows the sport away.

The best feature though is the weight. Im now able to shoot without monopod or tripod. I leave my flash permiatly attached its such a light kit now.

Im so happy with this body lens you'll be seeing my sigma sport and d750 up forsale any day any day now.

Best
Aldo



Jan 13, 2016 at 06:17 AM
trenchmonkey
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p.1 #13 · p.1 #13 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


011016DSC_4898 by Morris Altman, on Flickr

D300 + Sigma 150-600 @ 600mm, ISO 800, 1/50, f5.6


Sigma must have made a 'special' one for you, Morris
Mine is f6.3 when wide open @600mm



Jan 13, 2016 at 07:00 AM
KankRat
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p.1 #14 · p.1 #14 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I wonder how this one compares on a K3 body.

http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/english/products/lens/k/telephoto/hdpentax-dfa-150-450/



Jan 13, 2016 at 08:08 AM
gastch
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p.1 #15 · p.1 #15 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


KankRat wrote:
I wonder how this one compares on a K3 body.

http://www.ricoh-imaging.co.jp/english/products/lens/k/telephoto/hdpentax-dfa-150-450/


Its a pretty decent combo from what I have saw on the Pentax forum, but Pentax just does not have the AF systems that Nikon and Canon have. Hard to say what will come next with the new FF. I've considered this combination. I love Pentax colors and there bodies handle wonderfully but long term its a road I don't want to go follow. And that lens is 3k up here. For that same 3k I can get a D500 body and by selling my current lenses and body I can get another 4.5k for new nikon glass.




Jan 13, 2016 at 08:37 AM
Two23
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p.1 #16 · p.1 #16 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


I'd go with Nikon D500 and Sigma 150-600mm Sport. That would be a killer combo. I would NOT want a full frame for small birds.


Kent in SD



Jan 13, 2016 at 08:56 AM
Cheryle Sytsma
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p.1 #17 · p.1 #17 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


Not a super zoom, but...
in addition to longer zooms & primes which we have,
I sold my older 300 f4 afs for the new 300 f4 PE VR...
This lens is fantastic!! I cannot handhold very well, as I
have lost a lot of my arm strength over the years.
This new VR system actually stops every movement and
takes pics as if on a tripod. I also keep my 1.7 mounted to
this lens... awesome. In very windy conditions capturing
some flowers, the movement was cut to nil !!!

I tend to use this more than my long lenses!!!

So, you might even want to consider this lens in your bag
along with your long zoom!!



Jan 13, 2016 at 09:13 AM
KankRat
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p.1 #18 · p.1 #18 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


gastch wrote:
Its a pretty decent combo from what I have saw on the Pentax forum, but Pentax just does not have the AF systems that Nikon and Canon have. Hard to say what will come next with the new FF. I've considered this combination. I love Pentax colors and there bodies handle wonderfully but long term its a road I don't want to go follow. And that lens is 3k up here. For that same 3k I can get a D500 body and by selling my current lenses and body I can get another 4.5k for new nikon glass.



Got it.
I saw it going for $1800, new at BH, I think.
Not to hijack your thread but I have beemn thinking about a K3ii. Did you use any of the limited primes? How were they? I get the feeling you like the camera overall. I was thinking of getting a K32.



Jan 13, 2016 at 09:17 AM
ckcarr
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p.1 #19 · p.1 #19 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


Two23 wrote:
I would NOT want a full frame for small birds.

Kent in SD


I may not be hypercritical, but I am more than happy with small bird shots with a D8xx series .

I will say one thing, I have not been able to get as consistent, in focus shots with either of my D810's as I could with my D800E. That barb wire in the first, it was a perfect target to check focal plane.




























Jan 13, 2016 at 09:28 AM
Christian H
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p.1 #20 · p.1 #20 · Switching from Pentax to Nikon (D500) Need help with Super Zoom Choice


The D8xx bodies are just about perfect for small birds, or any other wildlife, actually. The wide dynamic range means, for example, no more obsessing about metering and exposure in the field. I still take that to be the most significant advance in sensor technology of the past 5 years. The sensor, of course, also renders colors beautifully while capturing fine details. And the shallow DOF is divine! I can't imagine having to work without one.

D810 with 200-500
Kleiber by Christian Hunold, on Flickr

D810 with 500 VR
Goldammer by Christian Hunold, on Flickr

D800 with 200-400
swamp sparrow by Christian Hunold, on Flickr

D800 with f/5.6 600 MF
yellow-rumped warbler by Christian Hunold, on Flickr






Jan 13, 2016 at 10:18 AM
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