Archive 2022 · Telephoto Decision - help

mpwolken
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Telephoto Decision - help

Right now I have a 100-400 IS L USM, and it's a very nice lens. I really have nothing bad to say - it does exactly what it says it will do. I want to up my game for birding though. I could get the 100-500 RF or I could get an older 500mm F4 IS. I'm tempted to go with the 500 F4 because it fills that gap that I'm looking to fill (better ability to handle very fast shutter speeds). I am so used to using zoom to find my shot. I have learned some tricks as to how not to need that such as just pointing the top of my hood at the subject, but "how tough is it" and "will it ruin my shooting experience" are questions that go through my head. I also wonder about sharpness the 500 F4 IS L is much older, but the 100-500 RF is, well, not a prime. I have no problem with older lenses just because they're older. I shoot FD lenses on my M6II and R6 all the time.

I can solve for "what if it's closer"; I can simply use my 100-400 on a second body.

Thoughts? I shoot with a 5D Mark II, R6 and M6 Mark II; this purchase is primarily directed at use with the R6.

I know teleconverters are a topic, I have a 2x - it's barely useful in just the right conditions - lets avoid that subject if at all possible.

Aug 01, 2022 at 06:09 PM

jcolwell
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Telephoto Decision - help

You should check this thread:

long lens Question, https://www.fredmiranda.com/forum/topic/1767362/0#16005959

Pretty much the same topic.

Aug 01, 2022 at 07:22 PM

jedibrain
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Telephoto Decision - help

For the money, and given that you will keep your 100-400 for use on a second body, I think the 500 f4 is the best option for you. It opens up more focal length, and a longer shooting sesssion at higher speeds by being a full stop faster. It also opens up some even longer options using one of those things you don't want to talk about.

A third option would be the Sigma Sport 150-600. A 4th would be an older 600 f4 if you can find one in your price range.

The prime thing is not that big a change. You just have to get some practice. I've got the RF800/11 which is almost the only prime I use. You'll use it when you know stuff is far and you want to reach out. And you'll get good at zooming with your feet.

-Brian

-Brian

Aug 01, 2022 at 10:57 PM

Imagemaster
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Telephoto Decision - help

Buy the RF 100-500 to go with your R6 and use a !.4x TC on it when necessary.

Unless you want to be a mule, do not buy the 500 f4. Try packing around 2 bodies, the 100-400, and the 500 f4.

Aug 01, 2022 at 11:46 PM

jaredmizanin
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Telephoto Decision - help

You mentioned wanting faster shutter speeds so the 500/4 IS would seem the reasonable choice here. As long as you can handle the weight it would seem to make the most sense. Do not worry about sharpness as there are no issues there! But you will want to add a 1.4x teleconverter to get you out to 700mm f/5.6 as an added option.

Just my two cents; I believe the 500/4 changes your birding game moreso than a 100-400 ---> 100-500 swap.

Aug 02, 2022 at 05:12 AM

Mike Jacks0n
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p.1 #6 · p.1 #6 · Telephoto Decision - help

The 500mm f/4.0 is a better performer, but at 8.5 pounds, its heavy. So, like the previous post said, it will change your images more, and additionally will force to think your way through a shoot as well. However, it will not be as convenient, by a long shot. One positive on the 500mm f/4.0, is they take TC's much better than zooms. Granted, the first gen 500L f/4.0 IS will still need to be stopped down a 1/3 or 2 for maximum IQ, but it will have excellent IQ with a TC. Conversely, consistently shooting a 100-500 at f/10 or f/14 with TC's, you might be better off looking at the long f/11's.

IMO, if you are the type that doesn't mind the weight and gets up before sunrise to shoot when the sun is just popping out, go for the 500mm f/4.0, but if you are the type that heads out mid to late morning in full light, the 100-500 might be a better fit.

Aug 03, 2022 at 11:53 PM


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