Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

craigc
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p.1 #1 · p.1 #1 · Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

I’m looking to upgrade/update my current setup and I’m considering a move from Fuji to Nikon.

I’d say my photography is 50% travel: documentary while exploring cities, some architecture, and landscape when out of the city. 25% family and pets, just having a camera to reach for instead of a cellphone, and 25% wildlife mostly wading birds, deer, and gators, not much BIF.

Currently I’m using Fuji, the x100v and an x-t4. The xt4 usually has the 27mm on it as I prefer the 40mm fov, over the 35mm of the x100. I use the Fuji 100-400 for wildlife. If I stay with Fuji, I’m looking to upgrade to the x-t5, the voigtlander 27mm lens, and possibly the 150-600.

But with the release of the new Zf, I’m considering it as an option too. I’d get the kit version with the 40mm and eventually add some other smaller prime lenses for my travel kit. Where I’m stuck, and just unfamiliar with Nikon, is what to do for wildlife, the Z 180-600 would be a top of my budget option. Since I’ll likely need the ftz adapter at some point would a used AF-S 200-500 be a good option? I’ve also seen the thin e-mount to z-mount adapters, would something like the Sigma 100-400 Contemporary in e-mount work? Wildlife isn’t the primary focus, lots of times when I travel I don’t bring a long lens anyway, but I do want something if that makes sense. Thank you for your input and advice.

Sep 27, 2023 at 08:12 AM

FrenchFry
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p.1 #2 · p.1 #2 · Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

Specs-wise, the Zf appears to be a very capable wildlife camera. However, it also appears that this body will be very uncomfortable to hold with a large and heavy lens such as the 3 you mentioned.

Personally I dislike adapters and would not consider using one if there was a native option. This is especially true with the 200-500, as you would be moving the center of gravity even farther from the body.

If you need the reach to 600mm, I guess the 180-600 could work if you add extra grip. Also consider a used 500pf if you are always at the long end and want something lighter or a used 100-400 Z lens.

Sep 27, 2023 at 03:04 PM

RoamingScott
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p.1 #3 · p.1 #3 · Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

400 4.5 with a 1.4xtc as needed for its light weight and small-ish size. Wildlife on the ZF grip (or lack there of) is gonna be carpal tunnel inducing if you aren't careful. Might consider a monopod.

If you absolutely need a zoom, the 100-400 with a TC is still lighter and more compact than the 180-600.

Sep 27, 2023 at 03:06 PM

patotts
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p.1 #4 · p.1 #4 · Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

Rent the XT5 and see how you like it while you wait on trying out the Zf.

Sep 28, 2023 at 08:27 PM

groob
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p.1 #5 · p.1 #5 · Wildlife Lens for new Nikon Zf

RoamingScott wrote:
400 4.5 with a 1.4xtc as needed for its light weight and small-ish size. Wildlife on the ZF grip (or lack there of) is gonna be carpal tunnel inducing if you aren't careful. Might consider a monopod.

If you absolutely need a zoom, the 100-400 with a TC is still lighter and more compact than the 180-600.

I agree. The 400mm f/4.5 and a 1.4x TC seem like a no-brainer here. It is extremely small and light and provides excellent image quality. Add the 1.4, and you’re nearly at 600mm. Any other telephone will balance poorly and will likely give worse performance. I bet you could find a used/refurbished one for about the price of a new 180-600.

Sep 28, 2023 at 09:51 PM


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