I took the old 600 and the D4 out for a quick test run today. I didn't last too long because I've yet to get used to handholding the combined weight of roughly 15 lbs while hiking. Before I gave up however, I took a few shots with different settings. Let's go over some of them.
I really wanted to see how fast this handheld combo acquires focus, especially with BIF against very busy background with low contrast between subject/background. For this Snowy Egret flyby, it was a quick lift of the lens, AF point set to off-center, firing away a short burst (6 shots). Wow feel that shutter sound! http://www.wildwingsphotography.com/img/s11/v33/p1265869428-6.jpg
About 2 miles later, I found a Red-shouldered Hawk looking for something on the ground. I crawled while holding the heavy combo with one hand - not easy to balance. Again, focus was pretty good in single mode. http://www.wildwingsphotography.com/img/s4/v63/p1265869448-6.jpg
My overall impression on this combo is that it's very good for what I wanted to do, but given the weight penalty, it won't be my bread 'n butter platform. If I get to sit in the car or use a Gitzo/Wimberley then it's a different story.
That is some fine shooting for that combo! Well earned shots and I think you have the method down to be able to use it well.
I'm betting that hawk grabbed a snake?
those are great, but to me the hawk is the best of this really great set...i give you credit for handholding the 600vr, i have a 500vr and that's about the limits for what i want to handhold. just out of curiousity, what focus settings were you using with the d4? it's getting to be raptor shooting season out here and i can't wait to get my d4 out there!
kennyb wrote:
#2 was nailed perfectly. The other two are still better than anything I've come up with. The 600mm is a handful for anyone. Great job!
Ken
Thanks so much Ken. Was a thrill to see them raptors so close.
Andy
birdied wrote:
Wonderful set ! Like them all. I am in awe of how you guys handhold these lens.
Birdie
Thank you Birdie. For me it's not an option heh. For the kind of shots I wanna get (mid-flight BIF) the birds are just too fast for any type of support, so handheld is the only way for me. It's a pain, but like they say "no pain no gain".
Andy
Karl Witt wrote:
The Canon 600 is much lighter Andy
That is some fine shooting for that combo! Well earned shots and I think you have the method down to be able to use it well.
I'm betting that hawk grabbed a snake?
Take care
Karl
Hey Karl, sup my man!
The hawk grabbed - get this - a frog! Interesting heh? Then it shared it with its mate. Even more interesting.
Handling this thing makes me feel like being hit by a dumptruck. Just can't wait to put it down. I think I might make a switch to Canon, or I'll just wait for the shipment of the Nikon 800mm
