There is no doubt about it. Nikon is firing on all cylinders and is making some mighty strong moves. If Nikon brings this momentum into 2024, then it will be well-positioned to gain some market share and mind share. I'm a Nikon user, but I am not blind and can see how users can enjoy their own favorite brands, and this speaks well for the future. All of these camera systems are capable of producing excellent images, and the member photos attest to that. Go out there and take some photos, my friends. There are a lot of special moments to capture.
Great comment and totally agree, I am just happy that all the brands are doing there best to deliver great gear. Every brand now has an option for wildlife and competition is great for us all. Cheers, DUade
I’ve been a Canon loyalist since the 1970’s, but the recent Nikon lenses with the built-in TCs and their line of PF lenses are very, very tempting. I hope Canon’s R1 and rumored combination TC come through in 2024. Thanks for another fun video - and the kind remarks. Wishing you and yours a wonderful New Year.
Thanks Mark, totally agree, I suspect this new TC from Canon might be game changing and the R1 and R5II have me very excited, if we can get a 600 DO it will be fantastic. Cheers, Duade
2023 is Nikon's year... Z9, Z8, 180-600... looking forward to 2024 as being Canon's year... Sigma lenses, R5ii, R1, 35/1.2, TS-E, 200-500/4 to go along with the already amazing 10-20/4, 28-70/2, 24-105/2.8, 100-300/2.8, 200-800 line up!
I'm a Canon tragic too, I even bought the T-80 ! I was tempted to swap to Nikon (nick on, not n eye con) when Mirrorless became a viable thing, but I'm hard wired into the Canon menu, and I'm too old and set in my ways to adapt.
Thanks for a great year Duade, you have help me improve my bird photography dramatically this year and also help me make the decision of getting the Sigma 150-600c as my first real birding lens. I am 15 and started bird photography a year and a half ago, I loved birdwatching but after seeing a few of your videos I wanted to try the photography side of things. I was just using my dads old camera and lens that he had laying around which was a canon 500d with a canon efs 55-250. The focal length has always been my problem but I have actually taken some real nice photos that I am very proud of, but now I will be using the sigma 150-600c as I just got it for Christmas. I have already tried the lens out and it is as good as you say and I am ecstatic to have possession of such a great lens. Thank you Duade for all the help and stay safe
Thank you Duade for the marvelous, fair and comprehensive review on this years' winning and runner up gear! True to your promise last year, you've opened up yourself to different brand offerings, shared excellent unbiased and heart felt experiences. BRAVO! This is Nikon's year to shine and re-emmerge as king. Undoubtedly, you have garnered a wider audience, appreciation and respect for the great reviews and tips you have given all of us birders! A fantastic year for you... Wishing you another awesome year and great health in 2024 ! Congrats to your members' beautiful contributions!
Thanks Winston, I appreciate the feedback and yes I had a lot of fun with the different brands, Fuji is the only one that evades me so here is hoping that can change in 2024. Thanks for your support throughout the year, Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duane for putting everything together and letting us have the opportunity to showcase our work! It was great to see my photo up there (Black Skimmer) and great to see everyone else’s work. Thank you for a great year and cheers to another!
Hi Duade. Thanks for another great video, and I have to say I agree with all your awards for the year, especially Nikon. It’s great that Nikon have delivered such fantastic kit in response to the likes of Canon and Sony - now we need Canon, Sony, OM- System, Panasonic etc to respond to Nikon. However you look at it we the photographers/consumers end up being the winners! Also wonderful to see such excellent images from you, Jan W, and members from around the world, you must see so many inspiring images, many more than you have time to show in a video. Thanks again and very best wishes for 2024, looking forward to seeing many more of your videos in the year to come. John
Thanks John, I appreciate the feedback, it is shots like yours that keep me inspired and wanting to get out there for more. Have a great 2024, Cheers, Duade
Thank you Duade for that year and this summary! I’ll be looking forward to 2024 and Canon’s new releases, the r5m2 and possibly the r1 Also a huge thank you to all the people who sent in their incredible pictures they took with the gear presented in the video! This leads me to a big question… How do you send pictures in or where are you guys sending them in? Have a nice end of 2023 y’all and an even better 2024! Stay safe :)
Nice video. My normal setup is the RF 100-500 on my R5 and my RF 200-800 on my R7. That gives me great flexibility. It is winter here and our days are short and a little gloomy so I have mostly shot the RF 200-800 in poor lighting. It has performed better than expected. I agree that Nikon has really come on strong this year.
Hi Duade.Thanks again for putting it together. It's really admirable how much work you put in for us. May you be out and about in the Australian countryside for many years to come. Greetings from Vienna where my R7 and my 100-400mm reside.
I moved from the Canon 90D and Sigma 150-600C to a Canon R7 and RF100-500... I am really happy with this combo... I am considering getting a second hand R5. Money is a big consideration, I think if I wait to the R5 Mark 2 comes out, the Mark 1 will instantly be cheaper. Thanks for your channel, Duade. Your love of what we do shines through and makes you a standout. Happy New Year and I look forward to 2024.
@Duade Hi Duade, I hope you and your property are OK with the flooding around Wang.. Looked pretty brutal.. ( Not as bad as my son in Kuranda over 2000mm in I think 10 days with the cyclone)
Thanks Andrew, yes, some flooding in town, and plenty on my property, a few trees down and plenty of water about but nothing too bad, I feel for everyone impacted. Cheers, Duade@@andrewkeir2282
Wow so much to choose from how lucky we are today. We've come a long way. With a little persistence and patience you can take great wildlife and birds in flight images with any one of these combinations. It wasn't that long ago that was unthinkable and nearly impossible.
Im not even that long into wildlife (since about 2018 first tries), but what i knew in 2018, there was no acceptable telezoom beyond 500mm for wildlife for less than 1000$ on the market, at least not new. The camera specs, AF performance etc was anyways an issue until mirrorless cameras. As canon introduced the RF 600 & 800 F11, things changed a lot. Not only was wildlife photography with 600mm+ also affordable brand new, but acceptable to carry at hikes and use handheld only and for longer. Nowadays you get even Canons 100-400L Mk2 DSLR lens for sub 1000$, the Sigma 150-600C is also around 500-800$ 2nd hand. Good thing this stuff gets a bit more affordable and practical and beyond that even pretty good at a level professionals dreamed of 10 years ago. What im looking forward... smaller sensors in the future with better specs, MFT combined with lets say a 100-300mm 2.8 MFT lens for 200-600mm effective FL in a package smaller and lighter than a Sony A7 + 200-600G. Or just a 100-500 MFT lens for 200-1000mm in the same size.
Great video, and Nikon deserves all the kudos for turning things around. I’m looking forward to the (rumored) Canon RF 400mm f/4 DO lens. If Canon is going to provide some direct competition for Nikon’s PF line, that would be an excellent starting point.
Hey Duade, great review. I started with a Nikon D70. I still have every camera I bought since and F mount lens as well. Now, use a Z6ll with the 100-400 - 180-600 and 800 mm. I'm hoping for an APC body or Z9. Or better.... lol Have a great New Year! See you in 2024. Greg
What a year Duade! Endless wonderful gear and so many amazing photos from you and your members!! I hope you have the happiest of New Years and I so look forward to what 2024 brings to this channel!!
Excellent video (I discovered this channel today). As a Nikon shooter, I am 100% biased. But last few years have been tough for Nikon fans... But finally, Nikon is back and you and your viewers did not fail to notice this. This year I bought the Z8 but I am still shooting with the Nikkor F 500mm f/5.6 PF as I cannot yet justify buying my dream lense, the Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8. But after watching this video, I may reconsider the Nikkor Z 600mm f/6.3... I was disappointed it was not a f/5.6 to be honest.
Thanks Duade for another superb year of videos. Doing my own awards, I vote your channel as top bird photography channel for the second year in a row. No pressure for this year.
This year you shot up as my favourite photography channel above a long list of people I enjoy watching! And it's not just because we both live along the eastern end of Australia
Excellent review Duade! As a (very) long time Nikon shooter I picked this year to jump into the mirrorless pool and I have been amazed with the Z8 (as has my videographer daughter) and the 180-600 for birds (the only real wildlife we have in NZ!). These new bodies with no mechanical shutter will only get better with each new firmware and I can see them being around for a long time. A couple of local birders have the 200-800, so I hope to compare that with the 180-600+1.4TC in the new year. Thanks again for you wonderful no nonsense content.
Thanks Duade, I actually got Sony A7R5 and noticed the AF is better than A1 (I own both), despite the slow fps, also the 60mp sensor gives more room for cropping, which is a must for wildlife.
Great review on the different gear options and Nikon did hit it out of the park with selections mentioned. I bought the 180-600 to along go with my Z9 and very happy with the affordable option for Wildlife that gives center image quality of higher priced lens! Nikon has really moved up the list options for photographers even getting into mirrorless late.
Happy new year Duade. As a recent OM convert I look forward to getting to grips with that system. I’ve only done a couple of thousand shots as it has been either too hot or too wet around Brisbane. But I liken using the OM-1 and 100-400 lens to ten pin bowling. When the ball is a bit heavy you can still get a good score but it is a bit of a struggle. Using the OM system is like getting the ball weight right and scoring strikes more often. Really happy so far but I feel the lens is probably better at f7.1 instead of wide open at f6.3. Early days. Well done on your video. Not easy do a video like that as there are a lot of pride of purchase brand supporters. 😂
Thanks Tony, yes, the weight savings is incredible that is for sure. If you use the OM-1 long term maybe try to borrow or get hold of the 300 f4, that lens is so sharp is crazy. Have fun, Cheers, Duade
@@DuadeI was strongly thinking of the 300 as like you many people love it particularly with the x1.4tc. I just think for my photography I need a zoom. And yes I think at 400mm (800 FF EQV) it can be not quite sharp sometimes. Doesn’t help if long distance through 88% relative humidity. Cheers
What an amazing video. I love see the members photos and the gear awards. For 2024, I think I'll keep using my R7 and my two lenses, the Sigma 150-600 and my Canon EF 70-300 L. My choise will be using the money to travel as I'm currently super happy with the photos I'm taking with my gear. Happy 2024 for you Duade and everyone in this community
Duade, this is just a great round up and award summary of cameras and lenses for 2023. Excellent production and editing make this a memorable vid. Many thanks for the effort you put into this channel, it's really first class and very much appreciated.
Brilliant video Duade, and the awards were a fair reflection I think. I’m a Canon shooter but credit to Nikon for what they have done this year. Completely missed the vote and sending images as spent most of Xmas with some bug. A huge congrats to those member images sent in, wow! Looking forward to what 2024 brings and also to your channel. Happy New year all. Gary
Thank you Duade for putting together this survey, it must have been time consuming. And, as always, you showed fairness and respect to each manufacturer. I'm primarily a high school sport photographer and I've shot Nikon all my life, Im 73. So I gave myself a gift this year and purchased the Z9 and a bit later the Z400 4.5 lens. The 400. 4.5 is so light and compared to the Nikon 400 2.8, its like lifting a feather. I can hand hold it the entire game. If I had to start over again, I'm not sure which brand I would choose. that would be another great question, what do you presently shoot and if you had to start all over again which brand would you choose? Happy new year to you and your family, I look forward to many more videos, Ted in Sebastian, Fl.
Thanks Ted, yes these Nikon PF lenses are game changing and is what Canon is missing from their lineup. It is difficult to choose a brand these days as to be honest everyone is good and has pros and cons. I think Nikon are leading the way but I look forward to the Canon R1 and R5II. Enjoy your kit and shooting those sports games. Cheers, Duade
I also have the Sigma C 150-600mm with 1.4 extender and have been happy with the R6 Mk II in the hobby sector for 2 years. When I have saved enough I will also get an RF as I want at least 800mm. But for now I've had enough. Great video and greetings from Germany
This is such a wonderful fair-minded review of the amazing cameras and lenses released in 2023 that are most relevant for wildlife photography. I agree that Nikon has made the greatest progress and shown true leadership in the use of firmware updates to enhance the capabilities of their existing camera bodies, and they introduced a great selection of lenses that are particularly relevant for wildlife photography. I hope that they continue to release additional firmware updates for the Nikon Z8 and Z9, and that they will build on the successes of those bodies to release a true successor to the Nikon D 500. I am really looking forward to the Canon R5 MarkII, the Canon R1, and new releases from Sony. I would also like to see Canon release a mirrorless body that would be the true successor to the Canon 7D Mark II DSLR. Although the Canon R7 is a close replacement, it lacks several important features that perhaps could be introduced in a Canon R7 Mark II.
I' am a lucky man. Shoot with Nikon Z9 & Z8 and still have the D850. I use a Nikon Z 180-600 mm zoom, Z 100-400 zoom and have a Z 600 mm F6.3 in preorder.
Yup, really liking my new Z8. And for Christmas, my beautiful and generous Mrs. Claus gifted me the new 600mm 6.3 pf lens. Just tested it on waterfowl at the Bow River here in Calgary. What a great combo. I also have my “old” D850 to pair with my equally “old” 500mm 5.6 pf lens. I like to take it off the shelf and head down to the beach or river - it’s fun to go back to the less automated feel of the DSLR. I’ve got some of my best shots with that camera and the Z8 is a great successor. The fact is though, these days whatever brand we use, we are spoiled for choice. The differences among the top end cameras are very small and the brands keep leapfrogging one another, both in bodies and lenses. I really enjoy your channel, Duade. All the best in 2024.
Thank you Duade for all your great content this past year. Your channel has become my first (and sometimes only!) stop for getting review information - you're fair, honest, and provide some fantastic detailed information. I'm looking forward to getting either the Canon 100-500 or 200-800 to pair with my R7 in 2024, and your reviews have provided a wealth of pros/cons of all the options out there. One more thing, I really appreciate in this (and other) reviews you sharing others photos - no doubt your photos are fantastic, but great to see others as well. Thanks again for a great year of content, and all the best in 2024!
I am waiting for MY Panasonic G9 II. I hope this will be what my GH6 and OM-1 couldn't be in one body. A go to photo/video workhorse for those occasions where I simply cannot carry FF lens setup. But I also can't wait Canon R5 II
Wow, what a huge comparison. Thank you for all that info and love the images. The R7 has gradually become my favourite wildlife camera. My R5 feels lonely now. The R7 just gets me closer and I'm afraid I've built the muscle memory around it now. Oh, that RF100-400mm is so neat. I took it to South Africa on my R7 and used it every day for four months. Love it.
Great video. I almost feel bad being a Sony shooter. It's overwhelming to see how many good cameras and lenses other brands have released. When I reflect though I think any brand can make good photos. As an amateur Sony shooter an A7IV + 200-600 is luckily more than sufficient for wildlife. I do hope Sony show up for the wildlife scene though with some afforable lenses and a possible A7V. Let's hope for a fantastic 2024 for any brand so we can all make even better photos. Cheer again and happy new year!
thanks for another fantastic video, learnt so much from you this year and super excited about using the new R7 and RF 100-500 I have just been able to purchase. Will be using all your tips and tricks to help make me a better photographer, thanks again and wish you a very successful 2024
G'day, if you like jigsaw puzzles you will love putting on the cover :-) It took me probably close to 3 hours as it was time consuming a littel fiddly in parts. But I am happy with the results. Cheers, Duade
I'm a Canon shooter. I look forward to the R5 II and I really like the RF 200-800. Hopefully one of these, if not both, will find its way into my bag this year. But hats off to Nikon for really killing it with the Z8 and 180-600 zoom.
I had once also the option to either pick a RF 100-400 new, Sigma 150-600C or a EF 100-400 II 2nd hand. I was searching for a zoom addition in the effective 200-800mm range for the RF 800 F11, preferred a "fast" lens, yet affordable (so the 100-500L was not on my list at all) The RF 100-400 was too short on the long end for me, as well lacking a bit sharpness wide open for the R7, as convenient and awesome it was. The EF version Mk2 2nd hand i picked later and its a GREAT lens, tho as expected too short as allrounder for wildlife. Sigma 150-600C i got for a good price and i wont sell it, i probably use it until it breaks since 240-960mm are the most versatile thing with the EOS R7 With the 200-800 release things changed a bit and im thinking of replacing Sigma 150-600C and RF 800 F11 with it to have "both" lenses in a single one. No decision which advantages i want to enjoy anymore. Just always a 2kg lens to carry which is ok, the Sigma 150-600C is often with me at (shorter) walks.
Nice recap of 2023 Duade. I agree about the Nikon takes home that big year winner both body and lenses. My favorite combo remains the same, OM-1 with 300mm F4 w or w/o the TC and 200mm F2.8 lenses.
Great video. Some good choices there, too, I think. You've certainly put in the hard yards to bring us the content that you produce. Well done. Roll on 2024. I've been looking at the RF200-800. But as a hobbyist (not even up to amateur league yet), it's a hard call for me. I might have to make do with my aging Tamron 150-600 G1 lens. One question, though. Where did you get that plate thingy that you sit on the ground for those awesome ground level shots? I recently bought a gimbal and was thinking of a piece of stainless 10mm plate and butchering one of my tripods to mount the head onto it and to afix the gymbal to that. Thanks.
Thanks for the support, yes its called a ground pod, or Skimmer Pod, I got mine here but its overpriced for what it is. Many people likeyourself make one from an Ikea frying pan/wok, timber, anything that is not too heavy and gives a steady base. I think it is a 3/8 bolt that comes through the bottom to attach to the gimbal. store.naturescapes.net/skimmer-ground-pod-ii-camera-support-for-bird-and-wildlife-photography/ Cheers, Duade
Duade, you're killing it this year with reviews! This is so appreciated. I still haven't upgraded. I bought into the Fuji system and deep into it so it's painful. I just picked up the Tamron 150-500mm for Fujifilm and paired it with my X-H2S and it's been offering me some really good shots. When the Nikon Zf came out, I thought this would satisfy both my street and bird photography needs. Alas, Nikon hasn't provided exactly what I'm looking for yet. I am hoping the next body they release will be that 33 megapixel baby Z8 and then I'm good to switch. Cheers! Happy new year!
Great comparisons, a lot of great additions! Lets see what 2024 will offer! I just got an RF 100-500 after a lot of research, looking forward to getting out with it soon! I was wondering what brand of vinyl/lens cover you use on yours? I'd like to protect the body from scratches but honestly don't know where to start since I've never had the need to get one! Thanks Duade, a happy new year to you!
I'm looking to move to mirrorless in the next year or two, and honestly it makes it difficult to choose. The canon and nikon offerings are right up there, now canon has the 200-800, and nikon has so many good lenses, it makes it a difficult choice to make. I love how competitive it is getting, hopefully nikon and canon both come out with even more good cameras and lenses. I'm looking at the canon mirrorlese and 100-500/200-800, maybe both eventually... or maybe nikon has something else in the bag... 2024 could be a huge year for us camera users
I was lucky enough this year to get a z8 and the z 100-400, after selling some less used lens and a camera. This is right now my favorite setup. My 500pf works great to and is also quite light and nimble.
You are probably aware but Jan has had some pretty rough weather the last few days. I understand around 300mm of rain in 24 hrs adding to already soaking rain with more to come.
Thanks Duade 👍🏻 Fantastic video as always mate. My favorite kit right now is the Canon R10 with the 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM. Fantastic package for wildlife while traveling, as it is small and light and cost vs output is outstanding! It is also enjoyable to use for extended periods due to its low weight 😊
I read that some people are using DSLR for shooting under artificial lighting like at events, theatre, concerts etc because of banding which can't be edited out.
First of all. What a great video! Thank you very much for your opinions. I am a beginner searching a camera for wildlife. I got that: R7 probably the best but without lenses. Nikon is on the rise. Should I wait until Nikon launches a good APS-C camera? Or what would you buy in that price range? Sony, Canon, Nikon or even something different? Thank you very much! 👍🏻
hoping to invest in a 'beginner' setup of the R7 with the RF 100-400. It seems like such a versatile setup and i can further upgrade to the RF 100-500, or go all out for reach with the 200-800. Also offers the possibility of grabbing an adapter and getting a cheaper second hand EF or third party lens in the future.
The Canon R5 is legendary. Ill wait to see what the mark ii brings but its going to have to be something special to still not want to go with the original
I pretty much have tried all the brands on and off since high school (1971 graduate)...I just will not spend much over $1500 on any camera body...currently I use a pair of used A7c bodies along with an even older A7s body...The Canon RP bodies were great (I ran with a pair of them for quite a while). but I prefer small rangefinder style bodies so the Sony currently does it for me...I am still planning to buy the Sony FE 200-600/5.6-6.3 in the next couple of months I have used it and its my favorite. Cheers...
G'day, there is no doubt is will struggle a bit in really dark environments and you will have to use higher ISO but modern cameras handle this very well these days and you can use lower SS if not shooting fast action. I have take a number of shots in lower light at higher ISO without too many issues so far. It is basically one stop slower than the 6.3 lenses, so if you look at your photos taken with that speed simply double your ISO or half your SS if using this lens. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade thanks for your video once again ! I personally am a beginner and I confirm that the R7 + RF 100-400 is a wonderful combo because of its versatility and its price. Absolutely love it even if, of course, the main default is that you often struggle in low light conditions like in rainforests for example.
I have been a Canon user for the last 50 years. Unfortunately, my workhorse 1Dx died last week. Wondering whether it is time to switch brands. I am also looking at lenses available for each brand- Canon, Nikon and Sony. The Canon doesn't have an equivalent to the internal zooming Sony's 200-600 or Nikon's 180-600, though its 100-500 comes quite close. Just wondering how switching to the Nikon Z8/Z9 will work out considering its option of lenses. Your review was very helpful. Thank you.
Hi Duade, great video. Have you had a look at the OM System 150-600mm lens? If so, what's your opinion? I would really love the Olympus 150-400mm however I really don't want to sell a kidney to afford it. I am wondering if the 150-600mm is a reasonable compromise.
Have used Nikon for 45 years, and have great affection for the brand. When the 180-600 was announced, I decided to trade in all my F-mount gear (D850 + lots of lenses), and I now own a Z8, 24-120, 50, 105 and, of course, a 180-600. And I could not be happier. Z-lenses are much sharper than the F-mount ones, and, for wildlife photography, the autofocus of the Z8 is quite an improvement over that of the D850. Had I been a landscape shooter, I might have kept the D850. But for bird photography, Z8 + Z-lenses rule!
can you use r6 on the 200-800mm cannon zoom. Im thinking about getting it. but I would like to see a pro use the combo. if you possible would help me and i think a lot more of your members.
Hey Duade, great list and poll! Just wondering, what do you use to keep your camera and lenses clean? I don't want to damage my lens using the wrong tools, and google gives so many conflicting views.
just like film cameras I believe DSLRs will always be a thing but mirrorless will be the mainstream give it another 10 years but we do need bigger mirrorless cameras, my Canon EOS Rebel T7 fits perfectly in my hand and I tried some mirrorless but they are a tad small and my right hand basically rest on the entire camera.
Thanks, yes, they are a bit small, you should try the Sony, I think a battery grip should help with that, the Nikon Z8 is the biggest non pro mirrorless body I have used. Cheers, DUade
Hi Duane, Thanks for creating and sharing another brilliant video ‘2023 wildlife and camera lens award’ Just sold my A9 and 200-600 as it had become difficult for me to hand hold for more than a few seconds. (I don’t like using tripods, more stuff to carry) I agree with all the section winners, the truth is unfortunately as much as some of us would love to own these combinations we may have restrictions either budgetary and/or the hand holding due to weight of camera lens combinations. I’m in the process of buying new kit that has to be easily hand holdable. I have a budget of around 4000 € Of the “lighter” camera and lens combinations you have tested for birds/wildlife/BIF - which did you find as the best overall performing combination Fuji/Olympus/Lumix? Thanks, A Happy New Year to you and all your subscribers.
Great video and review of the year. Think I disagree that Nikon are best of the year though. Yes they have released some amazing gear, but only to those who have the money. I used to shoot nikon dslr and sold up in hopes they would bring out a crop mirrorless. After 2 years, give up and moved to canon. I would have stayed with nikon as they have affordable lenses but still no body thats affordable and worthy to pair with. Best option would be z8, but not many people have 4k for a body. Hence why I have now moved to canon.
The R800 f/11 is an interesting lens that will give you plenty of reach but has some big downsides, those being f11 aperture meaning in low light you will have very high ISO or low SS. 6m MFD means you cannot get really close to the subject as it wont focus. The AF box is reduced on certain cameras making AF a little more difficult. It is a prime lens meaning you have no versatility over composition. 800mm also makes it difficult to find the subject at times. However 800mm is a lot of focal length making small birds much bigger and is quite light and should work well on a FF body. It is a good lens, you just need to be aware of its shortcomings. Cheers, Duade @@merdumgiriz108
Although I have R6/RF 600/RF 800, I find that for birding I frequently fall back on old favorite 5Dsr/Tamron 150/600 G2. Have a safe healthily year Duade.
Well, the R6s issue is resolution, in any other aspect its mighty. I tried the R6 after i had issues (no animal eye tracking/af, no proper video modes,...) with my EOS RP for wildlife. In fact the 20MP were GREAT for most stuff especially for astrophotography on a 750mm F4 newton it was like 1000% better/faster than the RP. But when it came to wildlife and even with a RF 800 F11, cropping was a big issue for the R6 where it was as "bad" as the RP. With the R7 i often had the crop i did anyways in 32MP by crop sensor and more headroom for the crop in post. In fact i didnt like the R6 that much (considering the price and resolution mainly) that i replaced it with the R7 which im super happy now except for the rolling shutter which can be horrendous. In fact i even began to like the 4k60 crop video mode, making out of the RF 800 F11 a telescope to watch moon craters well detailed in video or extremely magnified via 5/10x live view. Im also mainly using a 150-600 (Sigma, contemporary) on the R7, 240-960mm are just "perfect", about as awesome as the new 200-800 on full frame. Why not adapting the 150-600 on the R6? When you get close enough so no heavy crop needed it could be a lot better than the 5Dsr. For me FF + 150-600 was not "enough" reach in general, thats why i stick to either effective 240-960mm or 1280mm+ with 150-600 sigma and RF 800.
I am little disappointed that micro 4/3 cameras were not mentioned in any capacity (other than the om-1 being a flagship camera and the Panasonic 100-400). The system just oozes value. Big sensor equal more better I guess. :/
Great awards. I shoot Sony but it's great to see all the brands doing well and Nikon making excellent new cameras. It's in all our interests as photographers to have the brands pushing forwards and to like the gear not the name on it.
Hi Duade, greetings from Brisbane. This was an excellent presentation. I'm still using my Nikon D500/500PF combo and very happy, although moving to mirrorless is something I'd like to do. The choices now seem endless! I'd be interested to know which camera you think has the best autofocus and eye af (for birds in flight) out of those you reviewed in this video. Wishing you and yours a very happy new year.
Nice video, I would also choose the R7 with the 100-400 in 2023, but for 2024 I would like an APSC Nikon DSLM for not over €2000, happy new year 2024 and greetings from Germany, Markus
There is no doubt about it. Nikon is firing on all cylinders and is making some mighty strong moves. If Nikon brings this momentum into 2024, then it will be well-positioned to gain some market share and mind share.
I'm a Nikon user, but I am not blind and can see how users can enjoy their own favorite brands, and this speaks well for the future. All of these camera systems are capable of producing excellent images, and the member photos attest to that.
Go out there and take some photos, my friends. There are a lot of special moments to capture.
Great comment and totally agree, I am just happy that all the brands are doing there best to deliver great gear. Every brand now has an option for wildlife and competition is great for us all. Cheers, DUade
Just got my first wildlife lens following your recommendation (400 f5.6 EF lens)! Keep up the good work.
Congrats, a great light lens that I love, good luck with it. Cheers, Duade
Great choice. You won't be disappointed.
Half the photos I've ever taken were with that lens hope you enjoy it as much as me. :)
I’ve been a Canon loyalist since the 1970’s, but the recent Nikon lenses with the built-in TCs and their line of PF lenses are very, very tempting. I hope Canon’s R1 and rumored combination TC come through in 2024. Thanks for another fun video - and the kind remarks. Wishing you and yours a wonderful New Year.
Thanks Mark, totally agree, I suspect this new TC from Canon might be game changing and the R1 and R5II have me very excited, if we can get a 600 DO it will be fantastic. Cheers, Duade
2023 is Nikon's year... Z9, Z8, 180-600... looking forward to 2024 as being Canon's year... Sigma lenses, R5ii, R1, 35/1.2, TS-E, 200-500/4 to go along with the already amazing 10-20/4, 28-70/2, 24-105/2.8, 100-300/2.8, 200-800 line up!
I'm a Canon tragic too, I even bought the T-80 !
I was tempted to swap to Nikon (nick on, not n eye con) when Mirrorless became a viable thing, but I'm hard wired into the Canon menu, and I'm too old and set in my ways to adapt.
Thanks Winston, I suspect so and I look forward to seeing what 2024 delivers. Cheers, Duade@@ww3688
Thanks for a great year Duade, you have help me improve my bird photography dramatically this year and also help me make the decision of getting the Sigma 150-600c as my first real birding lens.
I am 15 and started bird photography a year and a half ago, I loved birdwatching but after seeing a few of your videos I wanted to try the photography side of things. I was just using my dads old camera and lens that he had laying around which was a canon 500d with a canon efs 55-250. The focal length has always been my problem but I have actually taken some real nice photos that I am very proud of, but now I will be using the sigma 150-600c as I just got it for Christmas. I have already tried the lens out and it is as good as you say and I am ecstatic to have possession of such a great lens.
Thank you Duade for all the help and stay safe
Thank you Duade for the marvelous, fair and comprehensive review on this years' winning and runner up gear! True to your promise last year, you've opened up yourself to different brand offerings, shared excellent unbiased and heart felt experiences. BRAVO! This is Nikon's year to shine and re-emmerge as king. Undoubtedly, you have garnered a wider audience, appreciation and respect for the great reviews and tips you have given all of us birders! A fantastic year for you... Wishing you another awesome year and great health in 2024 ! Congrats to your members' beautiful contributions!
Thanks Winston, I appreciate the feedback and yes I had a lot of fun with the different brands, Fuji is the only one that evades me so here is hoping that can change in 2024. Thanks for your support throughout the year, Cheers, Duade
Well, Fuji needs to step and send you some gear!
Yes, that would be great. Cheers, Duade@@ww3688
Thanks Duane for putting everything together and letting us have the opportunity to showcase our work! It was great to see my photo up there (Black Skimmer) and great to see everyone else’s work. Thank you for a great year and cheers to another!
Thanks Ryan and great photo, yes a wonderful year and good luck in 2024, Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thanks for another great video, and I have to say I agree with all your awards for the year, especially Nikon. It’s great that Nikon have delivered such fantastic kit in response to the likes of Canon and Sony - now we need Canon, Sony, OM- System, Panasonic etc to respond to Nikon. However you look at it we the photographers/consumers end up being the winners! Also wonderful to see such excellent images from you, Jan W, and members from around the world, you must see so many inspiring images, many more than you have time to show in a video. Thanks again and very best wishes for 2024, looking forward to seeing many more of your videos in the year to come. John
Thanks John, I appreciate the feedback, it is shots like yours that keep me inspired and wanting to get out there for more. Have a great 2024, Cheers, Duade
My favourite combo, the one I own :)
Olympus EM1x and 100-400
Thank you Duade for that year and this summary!
I’ll be looking forward to 2024 and Canon’s new releases, the r5m2 and possibly the r1
Also a huge thank you to all the people who sent in their incredible pictures they took with the gear presented in the video!
This leads me to a big question… How do you send pictures in or where are you guys sending them in?
Have a nice end of 2023 y’all and an even better 2024!
Stay safe :)
Nice video.
My normal setup is the RF 100-500 on my R5 and my RF 200-800 on my R7. That gives me great flexibility. It is winter here and our days are short and a little gloomy so I have mostly shot the RF 200-800 in poor lighting. It has performed better than expected.
I agree that Nikon has really come on strong this year.
Hi Duade.Thanks again for putting it together. It's really admirable how much work you put in for us. May you be out and about in the Australian countryside for many years to come. Greetings from Vienna where my R7 and my 100-400mm reside.
I moved from the Canon 90D and Sigma 150-600C to a Canon R7 and RF100-500... I am really happy with this combo... I am considering getting a second hand R5. Money is a big consideration, I think if I wait to the R5 Mark 2 comes out, the Mark 1 will instantly be cheaper. Thanks for your channel, Duade. Your love of what we do shines through and makes you a standout. Happy New Year and I look forward to 2024.
Thanks Andrew, yes, the R5 second hand market will drop a lot once the R5II comes out, it is such a good camera. Have fun in 2024, Cheers, Duade
@Duade Hi Duade, I hope you and your property are OK with the flooding around Wang.. Looked pretty brutal.. ( Not as bad as my son in Kuranda over 2000mm in I think 10 days with the cyclone)
Thanks Andrew, yes, some flooding in town, and plenty on my property, a few trees down and plenty of water about but nothing too bad, I feel for everyone impacted. Cheers, Duade@@andrewkeir2282
Great list! Thanks so much for putting this video together and thanks for sharing my two woodpecker image at the end of the video! Cheers.
Thanks, it is my pleasure, so many photos made it tough, have a great 2024, Cheers, Duade
Wow so much to choose from how lucky we are today. We've come a long way. With a little persistence and patience you can take great wildlife and birds in flight images with any one of these combinations. It wasn't that long ago that was unthinkable and nearly impossible.
Im not even that long into wildlife (since about 2018 first tries), but what i knew in 2018, there was no acceptable telezoom beyond 500mm for wildlife for less than 1000$ on the market, at least not new. The camera specs, AF performance etc was anyways an issue until mirrorless cameras.
As canon introduced the RF 600 & 800 F11, things changed a lot. Not only was wildlife photography with 600mm+ also affordable brand new, but acceptable to carry at hikes and use handheld only and for longer.
Nowadays you get even Canons 100-400L Mk2 DSLR lens for sub 1000$, the Sigma 150-600C is also around 500-800$ 2nd hand. Good thing this stuff gets a bit more affordable and practical and beyond that even pretty good at a level professionals dreamed of 10 years ago.
What im looking forward... smaller sensors in the future with better specs, MFT combined with lets say a 100-300mm 2.8 MFT lens for 200-600mm effective FL in a package smaller and lighter than a Sony A7 + 200-600G. Or just a 100-500 MFT lens for 200-1000mm in the same size.
Thanks mate, totally agree, we are all winners in the end, thanks for the ongoing support and videos, I do appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Great video, and Nikon deserves all the kudos for turning things around. I’m looking forward to the (rumored) Canon RF 400mm f/4 DO lens. If Canon is going to provide some direct competition for Nikon’s PF line, that would be an excellent starting point.
Thanks Kyle, totally agree, if the 400 f4 is a success I can only hope for a 600mm option. Cheers, Duade
Hey Duade, great review. I started with a Nikon D70. I still have every camera I bought since and F mount lens as well. Now, use a Z6ll with the 100-400 - 180-600 and 800 mm. I'm hoping for an APC body or Z9. Or better.... lol
Have a great New Year! See you in 2024. Greg
Thanks for sharing! Happy New Year :)
What a year Duade! Endless wonderful gear and so many amazing photos from you and your members!! I hope you have the happiest of New Years and I so look forward to what 2024 brings to this channel!!
Thank you so much for the support, yes, a wonderful year for sure, Cheers, Duade
Excellent video (I discovered this channel today). As a Nikon shooter, I am 100% biased. But last few years have been tough for Nikon fans... But finally, Nikon is back and you and your viewers did not fail to notice this. This year I bought the Z8 but I am still shooting with the Nikkor F 500mm f/5.6 PF as I cannot yet justify buying my dream lense, the Nikkor Z 400mm f/2.8.
But after watching this video, I may reconsider the Nikkor Z 600mm f/6.3... I was disappointed it was not a f/5.6 to be honest.
Thanks Duade for another superb year of videos. Doing my own awards, I vote your channel as top bird photography channel for the second year in a row. No pressure for this year.
Lol, thanks Michael, yes, no pressure at all. Have a great 2024. Cheers, Duade
Lovely video and tons of fun! I love seeing everyone’s work as well as yours!
Thanks mate, and thanks for submitting the shots, have a great 2024. Cheers, Duade
This year you shot up as my favourite photography channel above a long list of people I enjoy watching! And it's not just because we both live along the eastern end of Australia
Excellent review Duade! As a (very) long time Nikon shooter I picked this year to jump into the mirrorless pool and I have been amazed with the Z8 (as has my videographer daughter) and the 180-600 for birds (the only real wildlife we have in NZ!). These new bodies with no mechanical shutter will only get better with each new firmware and I can see them being around for a long time.
A couple of local birders have the 200-800, so I hope to compare that with the 180-600+1.4TC in the new year. Thanks again for you wonderful no nonsense content.
Have a Happy New Year, Duade. Good health to you and happy shooting. Looking forward to your 2024 outings and adventures. Cheers!
Thanks so much, same to you and family, Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duade, I actually got Sony A7R5 and noticed the AF is better than A1 (I own both), despite the slow fps, also the 60mp sensor gives more room for cropping, which is a must for wildlife.
Thanks for the feedback, I hope to try that camera this year some time, 60mp does sound very nice for cropping, Cheers, Duade
Great review on the different gear options and Nikon did hit it out of the park with selections mentioned. I bought the 180-600 to along go with my Z9 and very happy with the affordable option for Wildlife that gives center image quality of higher priced lens! Nikon has really moved up the list options for photographers even getting into mirrorless late.
Happy new year Duade. As a recent OM convert I look forward to getting to grips with that system. I’ve only done a couple of thousand shots as it has been either too hot or too wet around Brisbane. But I liken using the OM-1 and 100-400 lens to ten pin bowling. When the ball is a bit heavy you can still get a good score but it is a bit of a struggle. Using the OM system is like getting the ball weight right and scoring strikes more often. Really happy so far but I feel the lens is probably better at f7.1 instead of wide open at f6.3. Early days. Well done on your video. Not easy do a video like that as there are a lot of pride of purchase brand supporters. 😂
Thanks Tony, yes, the weight savings is incredible that is for sure. If you use the OM-1 long term maybe try to borrow or get hold of the 300 f4, that lens is so sharp is crazy. Have fun, Cheers, Duade
@@DuadeI was strongly thinking of the 300 as like you many people love it particularly with the x1.4tc. I just think for my photography I need a zoom. And yes I think at 400mm (800 FF EQV) it can be not quite sharp sometimes. Doesn’t help if long distance through 88% relative humidity. Cheers
What an amazing video. I love see the members photos and the gear awards. For 2024, I think I'll keep using my R7 and my two lenses, the Sigma 150-600 and my Canon EF 70-300 L. My choise will be using the money to travel as I'm currently super happy with the photos I'm taking with my gear.
Happy 2024 for you Duade and everyone in this community
Thanks Tomaz, it was a great year and so many lovely photos, have fun in 2024 and I look forward to seeing the shots you will get. Cheers, Duade
Duade, this is just a great round up and award summary of cameras and lenses for 2023. Excellent production and editing make this a memorable vid. Many thanks for the effort you put into this channel, it's really first class and very much appreciated.
Glad you enjoyed it!
Brilliant video Duade, and the awards were a fair reflection I think. I’m a Canon shooter but credit to Nikon for what they have done this year. Completely missed the vote and sending images as spent most of Xmas with some bug.
A huge congrats to those member images sent in, wow! Looking forward to what 2024 brings and also to your channel. Happy New year all. Gary
Thanks mate, I appreciate the ongoing support and sorry to hear of your illness, nothing worse. Cheers, DUade
Thank you Duade for putting together this survey, it must have been time consuming. And, as always, you showed fairness and respect to each manufacturer. I'm primarily a high school sport photographer and I've shot Nikon all my life, Im 73. So I gave myself a gift this year and purchased the Z9 and a bit later the Z400 4.5 lens. The 400. 4.5 is so light and compared to the Nikon 400 2.8, its like lifting a feather. I can hand hold it the entire game. If I had to start over again, I'm not sure which brand I would choose. that would be another great question, what do you presently shoot and if you had to start all over again which brand would you choose? Happy new year to you and your family, I look forward to many more videos, Ted in Sebastian, Fl.
Thanks Ted, yes these Nikon PF lenses are game changing and is what Canon is missing from their lineup. It is difficult to choose a brand these days as to be honest everyone is good and has pros and cons. I think Nikon are leading the way but I look forward to the Canon R1 and R5II. Enjoy your kit and shooting those sports games. Cheers, Duade
I also have the Sigma C 150-600mm with 1.4 extender and have been happy with the R6 Mk II in the hobby sector for 2 years. When I have saved enough I will also get an RF as I want at least 800mm. But for now I've had enough. Great video and greetings from Germany
This is such a wonderful fair-minded review of the amazing cameras and lenses released in 2023 that are most relevant for wildlife photography. I agree that Nikon has made the greatest progress and shown true leadership in the use of firmware updates to enhance the capabilities of their existing camera bodies, and they introduced a great selection of lenses that are particularly relevant for wildlife photography. I hope that they continue to release additional firmware updates for the Nikon Z8 and Z9, and that they will build on the successes of those bodies to release a true successor to the Nikon D 500. I am really looking forward to the Canon R5 MarkII, the Canon R1, and new releases from Sony. I would also like to see Canon release a mirrorless body that would be the true successor to the Canon 7D Mark II DSLR. Although the Canon R7 is a close replacement, it lacks several important features that perhaps could be introduced in a Canon R7 Mark II.
I' am a lucky man. Shoot with Nikon Z9 & Z8 and still have the D850. I use a Nikon Z 180-600 mm zoom, Z 100-400 zoom and have a Z 600 mm F6.3 in preorder.
D850 is just refused to die. A tank of camera indeed.
Awesome list and video. Waving from The Islands of The Bahamas 🇧🇸
Thanks, my pleasure, waving from Sunny Australia, Cheers, Duade
I like Nikon's innovative use of built-in Teleconverters. Hopefully other brands will take note.
Yup, really liking my new Z8. And for Christmas, my beautiful and generous Mrs. Claus gifted me the new 600mm 6.3 pf lens. Just tested it on waterfowl at the Bow River here in Calgary. What a great combo.
I also have my “old” D850 to pair with my equally “old” 500mm 5.6 pf lens. I like to take it off the shelf and head down to the beach or river - it’s fun to go back to the less automated feel of the DSLR. I’ve got some of my best shots with that camera and the Z8 is a great successor.
The fact is though, these days whatever brand we use, we are spoiled for choice. The differences among the top end cameras are very small and the brands keep leapfrogging one another, both in bodies and lenses.
I really enjoy your channel, Duade. All the best in 2024.
Nice to see pics taken by guys from Poland! 🇵🇱 great job, folks!🎉
Thank you Duade for all your great content this past year. Your channel has become my first (and sometimes only!) stop for getting review information - you're fair, honest, and provide some fantastic detailed information. I'm looking forward to getting either the Canon 100-500 or 200-800 to pair with my R7 in 2024, and your reviews have provided a wealth of pros/cons of all the options out there. One more thing, I really appreciate in this (and other) reviews you sharing others photos - no doubt your photos are fantastic, but great to see others as well. Thanks again for a great year of content, and all the best in 2024!
Thanks Duade. Great roundup! Might need to swap my Sigma 150-600 for a Canon 200-800 in 2024. Best wishes for the new year!
Thanks Gary, I don't think you will be dissapointed, have fun, Cheers, Duade
The sharpness of RF 100-500 surprises me everyday. Even with max crop I still get usable image with this lens.
Totally agree, it really is an incredible lens.
I am waiting for MY Panasonic G9 II. I hope this will be what my GH6 and OM-1 couldn't be in one body. A go to photo/video workhorse for those occasions where I simply cannot carry FF lens setup. But I also can't wait Canon R5 II
Have fun when it arrives, Cheers, Duade
awesome year to you Duade. been awesome watching and learning from you. Cheers mate!
Wow, what a huge comparison. Thank you for all that info and love the images. The R7 has gradually become my favourite wildlife camera. My R5 feels lonely now. The R7 just gets me closer and I'm afraid I've built the muscle memory around it now. Oh, that RF100-400mm is so neat. I took it to South Africa on my R7 and used it every day for four months. Love it.
Great video. I almost feel bad being a Sony shooter. It's overwhelming to see how many good cameras and lenses other brands have released. When I reflect though I think any brand can make good photos. As an amateur Sony shooter an A7IV + 200-600 is luckily more than sufficient for wildlife. I do hope Sony show up for the wildlife scene though with some afforable lenses and a possible A7V.
Let's hope for a fantastic 2024 for any brand so we can all make even better photos. Cheer again and happy new year!
Excellent video Duade, so lucky to have been able to use all that incredible kit. I'd love to see you test out the Nikkor 400mm f4.5 in 2024.
Thank you for a year of stellar reviews and images! I still love my Canon R5 and rf 100-500.
Thanks Barbara it is a wonderful kit that is for sure, Cheers, Duade
thanks for another fantastic video, learnt so much from you this year and super excited about using the new R7 and RF 100-500 I have just been able to purchase. Will be using all your tips and tricks to help make me a better photographer, thanks again and wish you a very successful 2024
Thanks David, congrats on the new purchase, a great kit that I am sure once you get to grips with it will provide years of enjoyment. Cheers, Duade
How easy is it putting on the cover on the lenses? Thinking of getting some for my lenses
G'day, if you like jigsaw puzzles you will love putting on the cover :-) It took me probably close to 3 hours as it was time consuming a littel fiddly in parts. But I am happy with the results. Cheers, Duade
I'm a Canon shooter. I look forward to the R5 II and I really like the RF 200-800. Hopefully one of these, if not both, will find its way into my bag this year. But hats off to Nikon for really killing it with the Z8 and 180-600 zoom.
Thanks John, yes, in all honestly any of the brands can produce excellent quality, I suspect the R5II will be incredible. Cheers, Duade
Love my Nikkor Z 600mm PF on the Nikon Z9 for wildlife..when needed. Usually it is the 180-400 actually.
I had once also the option to either pick a RF 100-400 new, Sigma 150-600C or a EF 100-400 II 2nd hand. I was searching for a zoom addition in the effective 200-800mm range for the RF 800 F11, preferred a "fast" lens, yet affordable (so the 100-500L was not on my list at all)
The RF 100-400 was too short on the long end for me, as well lacking a bit sharpness wide open for the R7, as convenient and awesome it was.
The EF version Mk2 2nd hand i picked later and its a GREAT lens, tho as expected too short as allrounder for wildlife.
Sigma 150-600C i got for a good price and i wont sell it, i probably use it until it breaks since 240-960mm are the most versatile thing with the EOS R7
With the 200-800 release things changed a bit and im thinking of replacing Sigma 150-600C and RF 800 F11 with it to have "both" lenses in a single one. No decision which advantages i want to enjoy anymore. Just always a 2kg lens to carry which is ok, the Sigma 150-600C is often with me at (shorter) walks.
Nice recap of 2023 Duade. I agree about the Nikon takes home that big year winner both body and lenses. My favorite combo remains the same, OM-1 with 300mm F4 w or w/o the TC and 200mm F2.8 lenses.
Thanks mate, yes the Olympus is a great kit and that lens is so sharp, Cheers, Duade
Great video. Some good choices there, too, I think. You've certainly put in the hard yards to bring us the content that you produce. Well done. Roll on 2024.
I've been looking at the RF200-800. But as a hobbyist (not even up to amateur league yet), it's a hard call for me. I might have to make do with my aging Tamron 150-600 G1 lens.
One question, though. Where did you get that plate thingy that you sit on the ground for those awesome ground level shots? I recently bought a gimbal and was thinking of a piece of stainless 10mm plate and butchering one of my tripods to mount the head onto it and to afix the gymbal to that.
Thanks.
Thanks for the support, yes its called a ground pod, or Skimmer Pod, I got mine here but its overpriced for what it is. Many people likeyourself make one from an Ikea frying pan/wok, timber, anything that is not too heavy and gives a steady base. I think it is a 3/8 bolt that comes through the bottom to attach to the gimbal. store.naturescapes.net/skimmer-ground-pod-ii-camera-support-for-bird-and-wildlife-photography/ Cheers, Duade
Duade, you're killing it this year with reviews! This is so appreciated. I still haven't upgraded. I bought into the Fuji system and deep into it so it's painful. I just picked up the Tamron 150-500mm for Fujifilm and paired it with my X-H2S and it's been offering me some really good shots. When the Nikon Zf came out, I thought this would satisfy both my street and bird photography needs. Alas, Nikon hasn't provided exactly what I'm looking for yet. I am hoping the next body they release will be that 33 megapixel baby Z8 and then I'm good to switch. Cheers! Happy new year!
Great comparisons, a lot of great additions! Lets see what 2024 will offer!
I just got an RF 100-500 after a lot of research, looking forward to getting out with it soon! I was wondering what brand of vinyl/lens cover you use on yours? I'd like to protect the body from scratches but honestly don't know where to start since I've never had the need to get one!
Thanks Duade, a happy new year to you!
I'm looking to move to mirrorless in the next year or two, and honestly it makes it difficult to choose. The canon and nikon offerings are right up there, now canon has the 200-800, and nikon has so many good lenses, it makes it a difficult choice to make. I love how competitive it is getting, hopefully nikon and canon both come out with even more good cameras and lenses. I'm looking at the canon mirrorlese and 100-500/200-800, maybe both eventually... or maybe nikon has something else in the bag... 2024 could be a huge year for us camera users
Thanks, totally agree, we are very lucky as consumers heading into 2024. Cheers, Duade
With the push of the brands trying to be the best for the olympics too, im expecting big things!@@Duade
I was lucky enough this year to get a z8 and the z 100-400, after selling some less used lens and a camera.
This is right now my favorite setup. My 500pf works great to and is also quite light and nimble.
You are probably aware but Jan has had some pretty rough weather the last few days. I understand around 300mm of rain in 24 hrs adding to already soaking rain with more to come.
Hi Tony, yes, the weather has been very poor up there, lucky for Jan he has been in Melbourne during the poor weather. Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duade 👍🏻
Fantastic video as always mate.
My favorite kit right now is the Canon R10 with the 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM.
Fantastic package for wildlife while traveling, as it is small and light and cost vs output is outstanding!
It is also enjoyable to use for extended periods due to its low weight 😊
Thanks for sharing!
I read that some people are using DSLR for shooting under artificial lighting like at events, theatre, concerts etc because of banding which can't be edited out.
First of all. What a great video! Thank you very much for your opinions. I am a beginner searching a camera for wildlife. I got that: R7 probably the best but without lenses. Nikon is on the rise. Should I wait until Nikon launches a good APS-C camera? Or what would you buy in that price range? Sony, Canon, Nikon or even something different? Thank you very much! 👍🏻
hoping to invest in a 'beginner' setup of the R7 with the RF 100-400. It seems like such a versatile setup and i can further upgrade to the RF 100-500, or go all out for reach with the 200-800. Also offers the possibility of grabbing an adapter and getting a cheaper second hand EF or third party lens in the future.
Great end of year wrap up. Thank you.
Great summary of wildlife gear, I like how you captured most expensive to affordable kits. Enjoy very much your channel, I learn a lot.
The Canon R5 is legendary. Ill wait to see what the mark ii brings but its going to have to be something special to still not want to go with the original
I pretty much have tried all the brands on and off since high school (1971 graduate)...I just will not spend much over $1500 on any camera body...currently I use a pair of used A7c bodies along with an even older A7s body...The Canon RP bodies were great (I ran with a pair of them for quite a while). but I prefer small rangefinder style bodies so the Sony currently does it for me...I am still planning to buy the Sony FE 200-600/5.6-6.3 in the next couple of months I have used it and its my favorite. Cheers...
Duade, do you think canon rf 200-800mm can be that good for northern regions? It’s usually very cloudy in my area and it just may be too dark
G'day, there is no doubt is will struggle a bit in really dark environments and you will have to use higher ISO but modern cameras handle this very well these days and you can use lower SS if not shooting fast action. I have take a number of shots in lower light at higher ISO without too many issues so far. It is basically one stop slower than the 6.3 lenses, so if you look at your photos taken with that speed simply double your ISO or half your SS if using this lens. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Thanks!
Great review. My favorite combo is Z9+180-600 /nikkor. Amazing results after I became comfortable with autofocus
Hi Duade thanks for your video once again ! I personally am a beginner and I confirm that the R7 + RF 100-400 is a wonderful combo because of its versatility and its price. Absolutely love it even if, of course, the main default is that you often struggle in low light conditions like in rainforests for example.
Thanks for sharing!
I have been a Canon user for the last 50 years. Unfortunately, my workhorse 1Dx died last week. Wondering whether it is time to switch brands. I am also looking at lenses available for each brand- Canon, Nikon and Sony. The Canon doesn't have an equivalent to the internal zooming Sony's 200-600 or Nikon's 180-600, though its 100-500 comes quite close. Just wondering how switching to the Nikon Z8/Z9 will work out considering its option of lenses. Your review was very helpful. Thank you.
Hi Duade, great video. Have you had a look at the OM System 150-600mm lens? If so, what's your opinion? I would really love the Olympus 150-400mm however I really don't want to sell a kidney to afford it. I am wondering if the 150-600mm is a reasonable compromise.
Thanks for a great 2023 mate love the channel and unbiased reviews best wishes for 2024
Have used Nikon for 45 years, and have great affection for the brand. When the 180-600 was announced, I decided to trade in all my F-mount gear (D850 + lots of lenses), and I now own a Z8, 24-120, 50, 105 and, of course, a 180-600. And I could not be happier. Z-lenses are much sharper than the F-mount ones, and, for wildlife photography, the autofocus of the Z8 is quite an improvement over that of the D850. Had I been a landscape shooter, I might have kept the D850. But for bird photography, Z8 + Z-lenses rule!
can you use r6 on the 200-800mm cannon zoom. Im thinking about getting it. but I would like to see a pro use the combo. if you possible would help me and i think a lot more of your members.
My favorite lens is the Olympus 300mm f4 Pro on the OM-1 with both teleconverters.
That Pink Robin shot is the best photo of a bird I've seen in a while. Well done.
Hey Duade, great list and poll! Just wondering, what do you use to keep your camera and lenses clean? I don't want to damage my lens using the wrong tools, and google gives so many conflicting views.
Duade wish you all the best. Have a great 2024!!!
I’ve started a piggy bank for that 200-800mm 😂
Thanks! You too!
I feel it was a no brainer for many to choose the R7 as an entry level camera! The eye tracking and af speed is sufficient for wildlife photography!
just like film cameras I believe DSLRs will always be a thing but mirrorless will be the mainstream give it another 10 years but we do need bigger mirrorless cameras, my Canon EOS Rebel T7 fits perfectly in my hand and I tried some mirrorless but they are a tad small and my right hand basically rest on the entire camera.
Thanks, yes, they are a bit small, you should try the Sony, I think a battery grip should help with that, the Nikon Z8 is the biggest non pro mirrorless body I have used. Cheers, DUade
Randy Bocksnick(Montana) Duade, Really liked your video!
You have such a abundance of a great variety of bird species in Australia. You are very lucky!
I have the first Sony A9 with the Sony 200-600mm, although it's dated to most ...I've been enjoying my time with it
Hi Duane,
Thanks for creating and sharing another brilliant video ‘2023 wildlife and camera lens award’
Just sold my A9 and 200-600 as it had become difficult for me to hand hold for more than a few seconds. (I don’t like using tripods, more stuff to carry)
I agree with all the section winners, the truth is unfortunately as much as some of us would love to own these combinations we may have restrictions either budgetary and/or the hand holding due to weight of camera lens combinations.
I’m in the process of buying new kit that has to be easily hand holdable.
I have a budget of around 4000 €
Of the “lighter” camera and lens combinations you have tested for birds/wildlife/BIF - which did you find as the best overall performing combination Fuji/Olympus/Lumix?
Thanks, A Happy New Year to you and all your subscribers.
Great video and review of the year. Think I disagree that Nikon are best of the year though. Yes they have released some amazing gear, but only to those who have the money. I used to shoot nikon dslr and sold up in hopes they would bring out a crop mirrorless. After 2 years, give up and moved to canon. I would have stayed with nikon as they have affordable lenses but still no body thats affordable and worthy to pair with. Best option would be z8, but not many people have 4k for a body. Hence why I have now moved to canon.
Hi, for a full frame camera, wouldn't the RF 100-400 be a little short for nature and bird photography? What affordable lens can I buy instead?
The RF200-800 is probably the lens worth saving for and buying if you want reach. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade 200-800 is really expensive. I'm looking for something cheaper. What do you think about Rf600 mm or Rf800 mm f11?
The R800 f/11 is an interesting lens that will give you plenty of reach but has some big downsides, those being f11 aperture meaning in low light you will have very high ISO or low SS. 6m MFD means you cannot get really close to the subject as it wont focus. The AF box is reduced on certain cameras making AF a little more difficult. It is a prime lens meaning you have no versatility over composition. 800mm also makes it difficult to find the subject at times. However 800mm is a lot of focal length making small birds much bigger and is quite light and should work well on a FF body. It is a good lens, you just need to be aware of its shortcomings. Cheers, Duade @@merdumgiriz108
Thank you very much for your help, good work.
@@Duade
As always , so relaxed and informative . Thanks.
Although I have R6/RF 600/RF 800, I find that for birding I frequently fall back on old favorite 5Dsr/Tamron 150/600 G2. Have a safe healthily year Duade.
Well, the R6s issue is resolution, in any other aspect its mighty. I tried the R6 after i had issues (no animal eye tracking/af, no proper video modes,...) with my EOS RP for wildlife. In fact the 20MP were GREAT for most stuff especially for astrophotography on a 750mm F4 newton it was like 1000% better/faster than the RP. But when it came to wildlife and even with a RF 800 F11, cropping was a big issue for the R6 where it was as "bad" as the RP. With the R7 i often had the crop i did anyways in 32MP by crop sensor and more headroom for the crop in post.
In fact i didnt like the R6 that much (considering the price and resolution mainly) that i replaced it with the R7 which im super happy now except for the rolling shutter which can be horrendous. In fact i even began to like the 4k60 crop video mode, making out of the RF 800 F11 a telescope to watch moon craters well detailed in video or extremely magnified via 5/10x live view.
Im also mainly using a 150-600 (Sigma, contemporary) on the R7, 240-960mm are just "perfect", about as awesome as the new 200-800 on full frame.
Why not adapting the 150-600 on the R6? When you get close enough so no heavy crop needed it could be a lot better than the 5Dsr. For me FF + 150-600 was not "enough" reach in general, thats why i stick to either effective 240-960mm or 1280mm+ with 150-600 sigma and RF 800.
The Z8 just doesn't take enough photos per charge for me to even consider it. The Z9 solves this issue and then some.
G'day, yes the battery drain is a weakness of the camera for sure. I was using two batteries per session. Cheers, Duade
Canon R7 with the 400mm f5.6 is a fantastic combo and can yield incredibly sharp images.
Fun video!
Sony a9 and Tamron 50-400 is a versatile combo.
I am little disappointed that micro 4/3 cameras were not mentioned in any capacity (other than the om-1 being a flagship camera and the Panasonic 100-400). The system just oozes value. Big sensor equal more better I guess. :/
Great awards. I shoot Sony but it's great to see all the brands doing well and Nikon making excellent new cameras. It's in all our interests as photographers to have the brands pushing forwards and to like the gear not the name on it.
hi Duade could i use the non rf 2xconverter between my adapter and my canon lens on my r6
G'day Bill, unfortunately I do not believe you can go RF Extender > Adapter > EF lens. Cheers, Duade
Great video and I totally agree with you and I'm a Nikon and Canon owner;)
Thanks!
Thank you so much for the support.
Hi Duade, greetings from Brisbane. This was an excellent presentation. I'm still using my Nikon D500/500PF combo and very happy, although moving to mirrorless is something I'd like to do. The choices now seem endless! I'd be interested to know which camera you think has the best autofocus and eye af (for birds in flight) out of those you reviewed in this video. Wishing you and yours a very happy new year.
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Nice video, I would also choose the R7 with the 100-400 in 2023, but for 2024 I would like an APSC Nikon DSLM for not over €2000, happy new year 2024 and greetings from Germany, Markus