The Lumix G9 is now (late 2023) a bargain for anyone who wants to explore nature photography. For $1,000, a used G9 with 100-300mm lens gives you a very carry-able combo for everything from bird feeder to jungle wildlife photography. Marlene has been a great guide for me, and for anyone entering the wotld of m4/3 photography!
As a Lumix G9 user I really appreciate your time, effort and ability in helping me be a more effective and proficient G9 user. (It's also nice of you to let other fans benefit from the videos you made for me!) Thanks to a couple of recent videos I enjoyed, I am going to start enjoying the 100-300mm II. As usual, you bought your "A" game to the subject.
I'm already looking forward to your G9 software update. I'm a retired press photographer who backed into using the Lumix FZ1000 (MK1 but as the Leica V-Lux 114) so I could shoot stills and the required video for my paper's online presence. It worked great but in retirement I've tried it for birding by using the custom setting functions. Basically I shoot the center-square (expandable) focus spot with Quick Focus set and the electronic shutter. The smaller the square the faster the camera focuses but I've actually had this setting out perform a Nikon D810 when separating birds from waves in the background. These work for me and I get a "keeper" rate of about 25% on birds in flight (much higher if I'm panning with a bird crossing my path). I've experimented with subject tracking on birds in flight and while the keeper rate goes down, when it "hits" it produces extremely sharp images. I don't know if any of this translates to the G9 but thought I'd mention it just in case you might find it useful. One word of caution about Quick Focus, it causes the camera to continually focus so don't leave it on and just walk around with the camera. It's hard on the camera and drains the battery faster. Your tip on manual aperture and shutter settings and floating ISO is one I hadn't considered before. Thanks.
Hi Bruce. Thank you for generously sharing all of your tips. I appreciate everyone's input when it comes to focusing. I've still got a lot of testing to do with birds in flight so your tips are super valuable. A good friend of mine uses the Lumix FZ1000 and she is the one who tipped me off about the 1-Area focus and I will mention the Quick Focus setting of that camera to her, as well as the battery draining issue. Glad you liked the ISO tips. That's fairly new to me too. Coming from a film photography background, I still have old rules ingrained in my brain. Great chatting with you. Cheers!
Marlene, you have a video on TH-cam with more than 8,000 views that is over five months old with zero dislikes . . . congratulations and I hope this doesn't jinx it! 👍👍👍
I really enjoyed this and I’ve watched all your content. I have the G9 as well and have been looking to buy this zoom lens for a while now, like you to try a different focal length and subject matter. It has been years since I shot using a zoom (probably film cameras it was that long ago!). I’ll definitely be watching more future videos and maybe I’ll treat myself to the lens too, you certainly make it appear fun. Keep up the good work.
This telephoto lens has definitely been a great investment for me. This lens is very fun to use, affordable, not super heavy (compared to the 100-400mm) and is sharp. Thanks for watching Lou! Glad to hear you like my content.
So much to learn Ive been having fun with the 12-100mm on my g9 I have a screew on wide angle/ macro adapter wich gives me a 7.5 -50mm and also screews on to the my 100-400mm makes it a 50-200mm macro Can't wait to try focus stacking
@@ImageMaven Olympus My daughter has my Olympus lenses i have most of the panisonic lenses I've compaired the Olympus 12-100mm with the screew on macro to the laowa 7.5mm The Olympus is a Superior lens
Nice to have a double set that work on both cameras! Ya, that Laowa is a lens cap lens. I'd be worried if the Olympus was worse than that! Thanks for sharing!
Yes, that's true, although I found that 1-Area is good enough for me as the little birds tend to be a bit jittery so a slightly larger area seems to work for me. Thanks for your comment.
Was going to ask a question about pin point focus but just found the answer. Might help other noobs like myself but it doesn't work with AFC or AFF. It only works with AFS.
Hi Emile, Yes, I'm quite enjoying the change of pace that wildlife gives me. I find it quite meditative and exciting at the same time. Thank you for watching.
Hi Marlene, love this change of direction and appreciate your informative videos. Spooky I have just bought a monopod too. Picking up the the vibes here in the UK. Thankyou
Thanks so much for this video Marlene. I have the G9 and the 100 - 300mm lens for a few years now, and shoot mainly birds in the backyard. I've gotten some great shots, but that's mainly because of the hardware. This video inspires me to look at some of the settings I haven't experimented with before (like BBF and iResolution for example). Thanks again for making the technical aspects of shooting more approachable!
Hi Lionel, Yes, I've gotten used to using BBF, but it took me awhile. Wasn't sold on it initially. Be cautious with iResolution. It's definitely worth testing but don't have it set too high. Enjoy your birding season and I hope you get out into some natural areas too. It's quite relaxing to spend time birding in a forest where you can find woodpeckers and other fun species.
Great photos! Loved your advice on shutter speed for birds in flight, thanks. I do back button focus and manual mode with auto ISO like yourself. I am not very good taking birds in flight but like you say it just takes practice. Have fun with your new lens.
Glad it was helpful! Yes, I'm still working on the birds in flight. I need more luck so I can get more practice. 😂 I'm never ready when the singular hawks fly past. Or I'm driving somewhere when a flock of something appears. I'll keep hoping! Thanks for stopping by! Hope life is returning to normal-ish where you live.... We're getting there!
Don't forget to try the different AF Custom Settings. These can help with birds in flight. I use the C1 and C2 memories with different settings for various bird types
Nice Video....Look forward to your next one with the Firmware updated on G9...I have a GX85 with the 100-300mm Lens and never have a problem carrying it whole day although I am 65...and I have got perfectly decent stationary bird shots even at 1/40 ss handheld...If the Bird is skittish, I can keep it as low as 1/300 ss so as to keep the ISO as low as possible.
Most excellent intro to birding wildlife thank you, I wish this was out in 2019 when I started Birding with photo & 4K video. In addition to what you have presented, I recommend shooting more wildlife birding videos. Those owls are amazing, and you did a great job nailing the exposure for photo and video. It's great you've got into birding and wildlife and learning the skills. Because with your experience and knowledge of action video and action photo, you'll likely improve your craft faster in wildlife photo and video than most. And perhaps others will be inspired to venture into a challenging field for photo and videos to capture. If you plan to shoot 4K, Program Exposure mode for 4K Video, 30p works amazing with my rendering software . Seems Panasonic found a way to get smooth video at high shutter speeds with the G9 while keeping moving subjects focused.
Thanks Marlene, as always, entertaining and informative. I too have now resorted to 'back button focus' for all shots and I'm looking forward to that update from Lumix to see what diff it makes to auto focus. I find I take two shots; one with auto focus and one with manual focus as I like that peaking. Do you view through the eye piece or the screen? I find it difficult taking shots through live view unless I've got a tripod. It's winter here, officially tomorrow, temps 11-24C (B'rrr). Don't think I'll see your beautiful owls and owlets though. We do have Ospreys, Corellas, Lorikeets and miners, so plenty of chance to practice, practice, practice. Thanks again, Mike in Oz
Hey Mike, Great to hear from you again. Haha, we're having a hot day at 23c but hitting the low 30s later this week. That's about all the heat I can stand. Hopefully goes down to the 20s again after that. As for focus peaking, yes I definitely use the eyepiece viewfinder for that, even in the studio. And I prefer it on a tripod/monopod as well. Just helps to cut the stray light so you can actually see the peaking clearly. And when shooting handheld with this lens, I always look through the eyepiece viewfinder. It's just too hard to hold steady when you're holding it away from your body and trying to compose a shot. Even with a monopod. p.s. I'll trade you an owl for a Lorikeet anyday. Oh the colour! Cheers! :)
Thanks for the video. You mentioned you shoot jpegs and also that you don't like to go over 1600 iso. Have you tried shooting raw and using dxo photolabs denoiser? It has rescued so many shots for me. I feel much better about 3200 and 6400 on my G7.
Thanks for the suggestion! I try not to rescue photos, but instead to get it right "in the camera". Occasionally I get stung, but never on pro assignments. This is just for fun. I used to shoot raw all the time until I switched to Lumix. I was a huge early adopter to raw file processing over 20 years ago. I taught it to hundreds of photo school students. I taught it online as well. Then after switching to Lumix I learned how to use the camera properly and do good in-camera processing so my jpgs are 90% there. When you take 1000-2000 photos a week like me, you don't want to deal with all those raw files. Plus the storage space! Cameras are much more sophisticated now. I occasionally shoot raw + jpg when I need insurance for WB or Exposure. But I've never had to use the raw files.
Hi Marlene, I really love my Lumix 100-300... but I don't know if you see the same thing. I usually shoot this lens wide open for action stopping sports. My copy is VERY sharp (image center at all focal lengths) but I get the craziest bokeh. It's not bad or distracting, but it's wild. Like a bokeh salad! Especially at the long end. Jack
I have noticed it a few times. But I'm still fairly new to this lens with limited subject matter. I'll watch for it. Thanks for the reminder Jack! Cheers.
Yes, it does. I tested that out a few weeks back. I hope to post a little tutorial with my camera settings one of these days. Thanks for stopping by, Martin.
Marlene, I'm still getting used to the new set up with my g9, coming from g85, and this lens. Any tips on low light with this lens? Up the ISO. I appreciate the idea of a mid range fstop. I''m taking your advice and trying one area AF, the pin point was jumping around a bit. Even though my g9 is new and has the latest firmware with animal detect, I've got alot of learning to do finding that sweet spot. I think too, I needed to wrap my brain around picking focus that is right for the setting, ie birds perched vs in flight, small birds vs larger birds. Thanks for all the continued help and great content. The g9 is great, but a significant learning curve. Take care.
Hi Greg, Low light is always an issue with bird photography. If the bird is sitting still then you can lower your shutter speed to about 1/250s with this lens. Maybe even lower. But you'll have to experiment. Make sure the IBIS is activated as well as the lens stabilization. But if the bird is flying then you will need at least 1/1000s depending on the wing speed of the birds. Smaller birds tend to flap faster. But when birds are flying they are usually in the sky where there is more light. Flying ducks are fast flappers so maybe even faster than 1/1000 second. I have a couple of videos on the topic. Here's the main one. th-cam.com/video/u_lW3G_w-AQ/w-d-xo.html And I have a more recent "Ducks in flight video" too. Settings apply to the 100-300mm lens as well as the 100-400mm. They are both the same "speed". In the end though you need to practice, practice, practice. Go to a place where there are lots of birds - a river, pond, etc. Not sure where you are in the world, but lots of our water is frozen right now and the light is low at this time of year where I live. So it's a challenge.
What about O.I.S. and IBIS while using the tripod and the monopod? How do you judge the Lumix 100-300 mm lenses mark I and mark II in comparison? - Thanks for your video work.
I keep the lens OIS off when using a tripod. And I leave OIS on when using a monopod. As far as IBIS I leave it on the camera defaults. But this is something that you should definitely test for yourself. I haven't personally tested both of the 100-300mm lenses, but some people have, and say that the II is a vast improvement over the original version. p.s. I don't have access to any extra gear, just the stuff I buy myself.
Marlene, I recently purchased both the G9 and the 100-300 lens. I'm enjoying both, though I'm still a beginner and your videos are terrific. My question is regarding stabilization when you use a tripod. Do you turn off stabilization when you use a tripod, AND do you turn it off on the lens or the camera, or both? Many thanks.
Hi Jennifer, There is nothing in the 100-300mm lens owner's manual regarding tripod use and OIS. But I often turn off lens stabilization when using a tripod. I don't touch the camera stabilization. This is definitely something that you can test for yourself. I do know that Canon cameras are definitely affected by the lens stabilization. I had a classroom of students shoot manual focus for night shots. If the Canon student's lens stabe was on, the lens would seem in focus, but the resulting photos were not in focus. So I suggest testing this out using a focus target or something with fine lines.
Thank you for the great video.❤ I have just received it and tried it. Even when I'm on 300 zoom, I find the subject to be quite far. There must be something wrong that I am doing. How do you take picture so close? Do you actually zoom them in Lightroom or Photoshop? Thanks in advance for your reply!
Hi Florence, Yes I crop sometimes. I think every photographer does! The lenses can only get us so close, as we don't want to disturb the birds in their natural setting. But it's helpful if you don't have to crop too much as you tend to lose some clarity when you do that at an extreme level. So crop as little as possible. If you image isn't very sharp you can use some tools like Topaz Sharpen Ai, or Topaz DeNoise Ai. I have a video that shows some of my techniques. Here it is: th-cam.com/video/a4pyU3ITqGg/w-d-xo.html
What monopod and head are you using? I love shooting birds but I hike a lot and now suffer from camera hip (camera on strap hitting hip whilst walking).
Hi Cheryl. I suffer from shoulder problems due to carrying camera bags so I've gone to a backpack camera bag. But I'm not sure I'd take this monopod hiking as it's pretty big and heavy at over 1kg. It's a Benro A48TD. The head I'm using is also my tripod head. Manfrotto 128RC which is also quite weighty. There are smaller alternatives for hikers. Thanks for asking!
Hi Andy. Great question. In some cases especially with tree branches in front of the birds, I opted to use the 1-area focus so I could focus on the eyes. And for small birds it's quick to find the eyes that way too. I have started using the animal detection, and I will work on using it more in future videos. And I've also started using pin-point focus for small birds.
Have you played with the ' AF Custom Setting ( Photo ) ' modes for shooting birds in flight ? You are soo wright about familiarizing oneself with what the camera - me = G9 - can do. Always enjoy your videos.
Hi Ray, Yes, I have played with that a bit. I will be testing that more and then covering that AF setting in my birds in flight tutorial. Not sure when exactly I'll be putting that together, but thank you for the reminder about that AF setting. Cheers!
Marlene, I'm really liking my new G9 mki but still struggling with birds with my 100-300 mkii lens. I've rewatching yours and other videos and probably need to up my iso some,. I've gone from P and A priority to M and trying that. A little frustrating as you hope a new camera will be better than your older camera. Thanks for any help.
Hmm what's the exact problem? You didn't say. Out of focus? Motion blur? Noise? My current starting formula is: M exposure mode. 1/1000s for moving birds. For that lens you can go to 1/400s or so for sitting birds. Auto ISO. And your biggest f-stop. So in that case f/4 or 5.6. Just set it to f/4 and as you zoom into the 300mm range it will automatically hit f/5.6. The caveat for any camera/lens combo is that you need a lot of sunlight. A bird in a dark tree in low light (e.g. owl at sunset in winter) will not give great results. Also review the focus set up. Make sure your firmware is up to date as there are human/animal focus settings that came out with later updates. I have a couple videos on that as well as the focus settings. If you can't find them, let me know. Hope that helps.
Ah it's video you're asking about. Thought you were asking about photo settings. Here's a good starting point for video th-cam.com/video/91-DvWPKH8I/w-d-xo.html
@@ImageMaven I have the "old" version of the 100-300 mm. lens. It has O.I.S. but doesn't "talk" to the G9 so there's no dual stabilization even with firmware updates for both the lens and camera. Great videos, by the way. Very informative to newbies to the G9. I upgraded from the G6 last year.
@@mariannepreston9903 Hi Marianne. I have a couple of those "old version" lenses too. But hopefully that' doesn't hinder you too much. We just have to go old school with them and use the 1/focal length rule or stick the camera on a tripod or monopod if things get wiggly. Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoy your G9 as much as I still do. Cheers.
Hi Marlene, thanks for sharing this video. Since I started watching your video's I also started using the manual mode on my Limux G80 (with 100 - 400 mm lens for birding) instead of Aperture priority or Shutter priority. But now I have a question. Which setting do I change when I want to overexpose or underexpose? It seems that I have to do that with the ISO with the same shutter speed and aperture setting. Which technique do you use? Thanks in advance. Greetings from the Netherlands.
Hi Albert. If you’re using Auto ISO you can use the Exposure compensation button +/- and it will change the ISO. But If you’re using manual ISO as well, you can adjust ISO, f-stop or shutter speed manually. Hope that helps. Thanks for the question.
maybe you can answer this. I am using the 100-300 lumix on my g9 and have iso to auto. set shutter, set f stop and noticed f5.6 @ 100mm i get 800 iso but at 300mm it changes to 1200 or more. metering is metering right? Or does the lens loose light as i zoom?
Metering is metering as long as the light doesn’t change. Point your camera at an 18% grey card or a white wall with EXACTLY the same amount of light filling the frame. But also 800 to 1200 ISO is only 1/3 stop so I’m not surprised you get a bit of variation when you zoom in because what’s in the frame likely changes - unless it’s a blank white wall. Hope that helps!
Hi - do you use the 100-400? And if so can you use it hand held? I do a lot of kayaking and am wondering if it would work in that scenario. Am leaning toward the 100-300...THANKS!!!
Hi Dan, I recently used that lens for some birding. I made a video about it. I’ll share the link. For me it’s a bit heavy but it’s very sharp. I’m still on the fence about it. Mostly because I bird for fun so it’s not a necessity. And it’s nearly triple the price. I use the 100-300 nearly every day. But I think if a good used 100-400 was available I’d get it. Cheers!
Did you find this lens ( 100-300) worked well as a entry wildlife lens if on a budget? Also, some with the lens state hard to balance on a tripod or monopod, what did you experience and thoughts on a extra mounting ring I've seen out there? Thanks and you converted me a while back to BBF and I'll never go back either.
Definitely a great entry level super-telephoto, especially for the price. Every lens past this one is more than double the price. I'm going to rent the 100-400mm for the spring bird migration to see how it compares. But I know even that lens is too rich for me, and I'll never own it. Check out my video called Zero to Birder, for my overall thoughts on the 100-300mm. And if you're not sure, rent a couple to compare, if you can. I'm sure you can find used telephoto lenses too. As for the extra mounting ring, I didn't use this lens much on a monopod, but I don't think it's necessary for this lens as it's not super heavy compared to the bigger more expensive lenses in this super-tele category. But I suppose for some people it's worth it. Thanks for stopping by!
@@ImageMaven Great info especially on the results you got and the weight/handling. With all my research, entry level, sounds like hard to beat the price to benefit. Sounds like a keeper, but if every wanted to move way up, could definitely find a buyer or pass along to family member or friend getting started. But, sounds like it would meet all the needs of the true novice like me just wanting to reach out a little further than the kit lens 12-60 which has just been awesome. Thanks for all the great info and I'll check out the video you mentioned. Merry Christmas.
Marlene, new major Firmware 2.4 for the G9 coming on June 9th seen here starting at about 8:27 - th-cam.com/video/rw5aiklx5IM/w-d-xo.html More details here for the G9 including for the G100 - www.cined.com/panasonic-announces-new-firmware-updates-for-lumix-gh5s-g9-and-g100/
...the sharper way is to by a viltrox EF-M1 and a used 55 - 250 STM from Canon. You save a lot of money and earn better results. I tested it. The only good solution from Panasonic for birding is the expensive 100 - 400Leica!
@@ImageMaven Ok, it´s not so bad till 200 mm, but there are much sharper solutions, for less money. I use it for flowers an insects. perhaps the G9 can cope better with it, than my G85. Now there is un update for it ( for the power version ) I will try...
No Dual/sinc IS $1000 em1 markii + 100-300mm 2lb $2000 em1 markii + 100-400mm 3.5lb Dual IS $1000 g9 1.45lb +100-300mm1.1lb 2.55lb $2000 G9 1.45 lb+100-400mm2.17lb = 3.6.2lb $4000 Em1x 2lb 300mm 2.8 lb = 4.8lb $9500 em1x 2lb +150-400mm 4.08lb = 6.07 lb Olympus Why didn't they put sinc IS in 100-400mm because they save the best for the pros and put it in the 150-400mm lens this is why Olympus isn't #1camera company
Thanks Marlene. I suggest you check out Nature Image Photography if you have not yet. The photographer uses a Panasonic G9 and the leica 100-400mm lens. On Facebook. He has similar advice to yours.
The Lumix G9 is now (late 2023) a bargain for anyone who wants to explore nature photography. For $1,000, a used G9 with 100-300mm lens gives you a very carry-able combo for everything from bird feeder to jungle wildlife photography. Marlene has been a great guide for me, and for anyone entering the wotld of m4/3 photography!
Hello Jason! Thanks for adding this in, and for being an ongoing contributor! I'm going to I'll pin your lovely comment. Cheers!
As a Lumix G9 user I really appreciate your time, effort and ability in helping me be a more effective and proficient G9 user. (It's also nice of you to let other fans benefit from the videos you made for me!) Thanks to a couple of recent videos I enjoyed, I am going to start enjoying the 100-300mm II. As usual, you bought your "A" game to the subject.
How kind of you Gary! Thank you so much for the Super and for the kinds words. Enjoy your new telephoto lens! 👌🤗
Good stuff and recently met some bird shooters while shooting at Orlando Wetlands Park .They had a monopod with a gimbal.So many toys I mean tools.
Monopod with a gimbal. That's interesting! Thanks for sharing, Jason.
I'm already looking forward to your G9 software update. I'm a retired press photographer who backed into using the Lumix FZ1000 (MK1 but as the Leica V-Lux 114) so I could shoot stills and the required video for my paper's online presence. It worked great but in retirement I've tried it for birding by using the custom setting functions. Basically I shoot the center-square (expandable) focus spot with Quick Focus set and the electronic shutter. The smaller the square the faster the camera focuses but I've actually had this setting out perform a Nikon D810 when separating birds from waves in the background. These work for me and I get a "keeper" rate of about 25% on birds in flight (much higher if I'm panning with a bird crossing my path). I've experimented with subject tracking on birds in flight and while the keeper rate goes down, when it "hits" it produces extremely sharp images. I don't know if any of this translates to the G9 but thought I'd mention it just in case you might find it useful. One word of caution about Quick Focus, it causes the camera to continually focus so don't leave it on and just walk around with the camera. It's hard on the camera and drains the battery faster. Your tip on manual aperture and shutter settings and floating ISO is one I hadn't considered before. Thanks.
Hi Bruce. Thank you for generously sharing all of your tips. I appreciate everyone's input when it comes to focusing. I've still got a lot of testing to do with birds in flight so your tips are super valuable. A good friend of mine uses the Lumix FZ1000 and she is the one who tipped me off about the 1-Area focus and I will mention the Quick Focus setting of that camera to her, as well as the battery draining issue. Glad you liked the ISO tips. That's fairly new to me too. Coming from a film photography background, I still have old rules ingrained in my brain. Great chatting with you. Cheers!
I enjoyed your bird photos. Especially the owls. 🦉I will try some of your tips on my camera. Take care and keep posting your videos are great
Thank you so much Jeff. Glad you like the owls. I do too. I've been to see them twice today already. Enjoy experimenting with your camera.
Marlene, you have a video on TH-cam with more than 8,000 views that is over five months old with zero dislikes . . . congratulations and I hope this doesn't jinx it! 👍👍👍
Wow. Had no idea. After the first week I tend not to look at those things much. Thanks for watching Patrick.
I really enjoyed this and I’ve watched all your content. I have the G9 as well and have been looking to buy this zoom lens for a while now, like you to try a different focal length and subject matter. It has been years since I shot using a zoom (probably film cameras it was that long ago!). I’ll definitely be watching more future videos and maybe I’ll treat myself to the lens too, you certainly make it appear fun. Keep up the good work.
This telephoto lens has definitely been a great investment for me. This lens is very fun to use, affordable, not super heavy (compared to the 100-400mm) and is sharp. Thanks for watching Lou! Glad to hear you like my content.
Glad that you have converted to BBF. It was a transition for me as well, but I immediately saw the benefits while shooting.
Yes, I do like it. Just needed to use it for a bit and now I really love it.
So much to learn
Ive been having fun with the 12-100mm on my g9
I have a screew on wide angle/ macro adapter wich gives me a
7.5 -50mm and also screews on to the my 100-400mm makes it a 50-200mm macro
Can't wait to try focus stacking
That's great Gary. I haven't heard of that focal length lens. What brand?
@@ImageMaven Olympus
My daughter has my Olympus lenses i have most of the panisonic lenses
I've compaired the Olympus 12-100mm with the screew on macro to the laowa 7.5mm
The Olympus is a Superior lens
Nice to have a double set that work on both cameras! Ya, that Laowa is a lens cap lens. I'd be worried if the Olympus was worse than that! Thanks for sharing!
Pin Point focus is good for picking out birds in trees.
Yes, that's true, although I found that 1-Area is good enough for me as the little birds tend to be a bit jittery so a slightly larger area seems to work for me. Thanks for your comment.
Was going to ask a question about pin point focus but just found the answer.
Might help other noobs like myself but it doesn't work with AFC or AFF. It only works with AFS.
@@letni9506 Thanks for adding that info!
Really really good job! Thanks for sharing.
I'm so happy to hear this. Thank you so much for watching.
Many thanks for a very helpful 'tutorial' Marlene. I'm raring to go!
Great to hear Robert! Enjoy. 💪
Great to see you tackling wildlife photography Marlene...! And enjoying it too. Very helpful, as always..Thank you.
Hi Emile, Yes, I'm quite enjoying the change of pace that wildlife gives me. I find it quite meditative and exciting at the same time. Thank you for watching.
I took some awesome pictures of a burrowing owl out here in Arizona where I live. Love the G9 and 100-300mm combo!
Wow that's great to hear, both about the owl and the camera lens combo. I love it too. Thanks for checking out my video. :)
I´m always impressed of your clear and easy way to explain things depending to the Lumix cameras! Great, as always Marlene! Kind regards, Rolf
Thank you for watching Rolf. I appreciate hearing this very much. 😊
the owl videos are awsome
Thank you! I couldn't find them this year so they must have nested in some other trees. Cheers.
Thanks Marlene. I love your enthusiasm, this lens may not be the best, but practice practice practices .........
You got the message William! Thanks for watching. :)
absolutely gorgeous. looking to get one of these for my cinema camera. From Edmonton, AB.
Thanks Jordan! Enjoy the lens.
Hi Marlene, love this change of direction and appreciate your informative videos. Spooky I have just bought a monopod too. Picking up the the vibes here in the UK. Thankyou
Thanks so much for this video Marlene. I have the G9 and the 100 - 300mm lens for a few years now, and shoot mainly birds in the backyard. I've gotten some great shots, but that's mainly because of the hardware. This video inspires me to look at some of the settings I haven't experimented with before (like BBF and iResolution for example). Thanks again for making the technical aspects of shooting more approachable!
Hi Lionel, Yes, I've gotten used to using BBF, but it took me awhile. Wasn't sold on it initially. Be cautious with iResolution. It's definitely worth testing but don't have it set too high. Enjoy your birding season and I hope you get out into some natural areas too. It's quite relaxing to spend time birding in a forest where you can find woodpeckers and other fun species.
I have this lens with my G80
Taken some great shots of birds in flight, osprey buzzards swans,
Nice! That's great to hear and to know that it works on a smaller camera body too. Thanks for stopping by!
Great photos! Loved your advice on shutter speed for birds in flight, thanks. I do back button focus and manual mode with auto ISO like yourself. I am not very good taking birds in flight but like you say it just takes practice. Have fun with your new lens.
Glad it was helpful! Yes, I'm still working on the birds in flight. I need more luck so I can get more practice. 😂 I'm never ready when the singular hawks fly past. Or I'm driving somewhere when a flock of something appears. I'll keep hoping! Thanks for stopping by! Hope life is returning to normal-ish where you live.... We're getting there!
Don't forget to try the different AF Custom Settings. These can help with birds in flight. I use the C1 and C2 memories with different settings for various bird types
Great tip! Thanks so much for sharing, Paul.
Nice Video....Look forward to your next one with the Firmware updated on G9...I have a GX85 with the 100-300mm Lens and never have a problem carrying it whole day although I am 65...and I have got perfectly decent stationary bird shots even at 1/40 ss handheld...If the Bird is skittish, I can keep it as low as 1/300 ss so as to keep the ISO as low as possible.
Hi Ravi, My firmware Update video just came out. Watch it now: studio.th-cam.com/users/video4mNNkR8HP14/edit
Thanks Marlene from a beginner... The 100-300mm has a good pricepoint. I believe that with the new firmware it can have linear focusing.
Thanks for watching Rudolf. Yes it's great value for such a good lens. I have no regrets getting it. Thanks for watching.
Most excellent intro to birding wildlife thank you, I wish this was out in 2019 when I started Birding with photo & 4K video.
In addition to what you have presented, I recommend shooting more wildlife birding videos. Those owls are amazing, and you did a great job nailing the exposure for photo and video. It's great you've got into birding and wildlife and learning the skills. Because with your experience and knowledge of action video and action photo, you'll likely improve your craft faster in wildlife photo and video than most. And perhaps others will be inspired to venture into a challenging field for photo and videos to capture. If you plan to shoot 4K, Program Exposure mode for 4K Video, 30p works amazing with my rendering software . Seems Panasonic found a way to get smooth video at high shutter speeds with the G9 while keeping moving subjects focused.
Thanks for all the tips Little Fish. I will continue with bird and wildlife photos and videos as long as I can find the subject matter.
Awesome footage and photos - thinking about this lens vs the 100-400 due to its price tag
Yes me too! I just rented the 100-400mm to test it out. Video coming out later this week.
Nice one
Thanks Marlene, as always, entertaining and informative. I too have now resorted to 'back button focus' for all shots and I'm looking forward to that update from Lumix to see what diff it makes to auto focus. I find I take two shots; one with auto focus and one with manual focus as I like that peaking. Do you view through the eye piece or the screen? I find it difficult taking shots through live view unless I've got a tripod. It's winter here, officially tomorrow, temps 11-24C (B'rrr). Don't think I'll see your beautiful owls and owlets though. We do have Ospreys, Corellas, Lorikeets and miners, so plenty of chance to practice, practice, practice. Thanks again,
Mike in Oz
Hey Mike, Great to hear from you again. Haha, we're having a hot day at 23c but hitting the low 30s later this week. That's about all the heat I can stand. Hopefully goes down to the 20s again after that. As for focus peaking, yes I definitely use the eyepiece viewfinder for that, even in the studio. And I prefer it on a tripod/monopod as well. Just helps to cut the stray light so you can actually see the peaking clearly. And when shooting handheld with this lens, I always look through the eyepiece viewfinder. It's just too hard to hold steady when you're holding it away from your body and trying to compose a shot. Even with a monopod. p.s. I'll trade you an owl for a Lorikeet anyday. Oh the colour! Cheers! :)
Thanks for the video. You mentioned you shoot jpegs and also that you don't like to go over 1600 iso. Have you tried shooting raw and using dxo photolabs denoiser? It has rescued so many shots for me. I feel much better about 3200 and 6400 on my G7.
Thanks for the suggestion! I try not to rescue photos, but instead to get it right "in the camera". Occasionally I get stung, but never on pro assignments. This is just for fun. I used to shoot raw all the time until I switched to Lumix. I was a huge early adopter to raw file processing over 20 years ago. I taught it to hundreds of photo school students. I taught it online as well. Then after switching to Lumix I learned how to use the camera properly and do good in-camera processing so my jpgs are 90% there. When you take 1000-2000 photos a week like me, you don't want to deal with all those raw files. Plus the storage space! Cameras are much more sophisticated now. I occasionally shoot raw + jpg when I need insurance for WB or Exposure. But I've never had to use the raw files.
Very useful!
Glad to hear that! Cheers!
Very good job. G9 is probably the best value for money camera.
And this lens is equally so. Thank you for watching.
Which video do you talk about your updated feelings on BBF? I only see the one where you decided you didn't like it much!
I can't remember, but perhaps it's time to do another BBF video sharing my reasons why I like it now. Cheers!
So BBF is now your BFF
Hahaha. Best comment on this video. 😂😆 Cheers!
Hi Marlene, I really love my Lumix 100-300... but I don't know if you see the same thing. I usually shoot this lens wide open for action stopping sports. My copy is VERY sharp (image center at all focal lengths) but I get the craziest bokeh. It's not bad or distracting, but it's wild. Like a bokeh salad! Especially at the long end. Jack
I have noticed it a few times. But I'm still fairly new to this lens with limited subject matter. I'll watch for it. Thanks for the reminder Jack! Cheers.
This lens takes great moon photos also.
Yes, it does. I tested that out a few weeks back. I hope to post a little tutorial with my camera settings one of these days. Thanks for stopping by, Martin.
@@ImageMaven a tutorial would be awesome! Have a great day.
Marlene, I'm still getting used to the new set up with my g9, coming from g85, and this lens. Any tips on low light with this lens? Up the ISO. I appreciate the idea of a mid range fstop. I''m taking your advice and trying one area AF, the pin point was jumping around a bit. Even though my g9 is new and has the latest firmware with animal detect, I've got alot of learning to do finding that sweet spot. I think too, I needed to wrap my brain around picking focus that is right for the setting, ie birds perched vs in flight, small birds vs larger birds. Thanks for all the continued help and great content. The g9 is great, but a significant learning curve. Take care.
Hi Greg, Low light is always an issue with bird photography. If the bird is sitting still then you can lower your shutter speed to about 1/250s with this lens. Maybe even lower. But you'll have to experiment. Make sure the IBIS is activated as well as the lens stabilization. But if the bird is flying then you will need at least 1/1000s depending on the wing speed of the birds. Smaller birds tend to flap faster. But when birds are flying they are usually in the sky where there is more light. Flying ducks are fast flappers so maybe even faster than 1/1000 second. I have a couple of videos on the topic. Here's the main one. th-cam.com/video/u_lW3G_w-AQ/w-d-xo.html And I have a more recent "Ducks in flight video" too. Settings apply to the 100-300mm lens as well as the 100-400mm. They are both the same "speed". In the end though you need to practice, practice, practice. Go to a place where there are lots of birds - a river, pond, etc. Not sure where you are in the world, but lots of our water is frozen right now and the light is low at this time of year where I live. So it's a challenge.
What about O.I.S. and IBIS while using the tripod and the monopod? How do you judge the Lumix 100-300 mm lenses mark I and mark II in comparison? - Thanks for your video work.
I keep the lens OIS off when using a tripod. And I leave OIS on when using a monopod. As far as IBIS I leave it on the camera defaults. But this is something that you should definitely test for yourself. I haven't personally tested both of the 100-300mm lenses, but some people have, and say that the II is a vast improvement over the original version. p.s. I don't have access to any extra gear, just the stuff I buy myself.
Marlene, I recently purchased both the G9 and the 100-300 lens. I'm enjoying both, though I'm still a beginner and your videos are terrific. My
question is regarding stabilization when you use a tripod. Do you turn off stabilization when you use a tripod, AND do you turn it off on the
lens or the camera, or both? Many thanks.
Hi Jennifer, There is nothing in the 100-300mm lens owner's manual regarding tripod use and OIS. But I often turn off lens stabilization when using a tripod. I don't touch the camera stabilization. This is definitely something that you can test for yourself. I do know that Canon cameras are definitely affected by the lens stabilization. I had a classroom of students shoot manual focus for night shots. If the Canon student's lens stabe was on, the lens would seem in focus, but the resulting photos were not in focus. So I suggest testing this out using a focus target or something with fine lines.
Thank you for the great video.❤ I have just received it and tried it. Even when I'm on 300 zoom, I find the subject to be quite far. There must be something wrong that I am doing. How do you take picture so close? Do you actually zoom them in Lightroom or Photoshop? Thanks in advance for your reply!
Hi Florence, Yes I crop sometimes. I think every photographer does! The lenses can only get us so close, as we don't want to disturb the birds in their natural setting. But it's helpful if you don't have to crop too much as you tend to lose some clarity when you do that at an extreme level. So crop as little as possible. If you image isn't very sharp you can use some tools like Topaz Sharpen Ai, or Topaz DeNoise Ai. I have a video that shows some of my techniques. Here it is: th-cam.com/video/a4pyU3ITqGg/w-d-xo.html
@@ImageMaven Thank you for the great reply! 💕
What monopod and head are you using? I love shooting birds but I hike a lot and now suffer from camera hip (camera on strap hitting hip whilst walking).
Hi Cheryl. I suffer from shoulder problems due to carrying camera bags so I've gone to a backpack camera bag. But I'm not sure I'd take this monopod hiking as it's pretty big and heavy at over 1kg. It's a Benro A48TD. The head I'm using is also my tripod head. Manfrotto 128RC which is also quite weighty. There are smaller alternatives for hikers. Thanks for asking!
Hi Marelene great video and very informative as usual. Any reason why you're not using the animal auto focus mode instead?
Hi Andy. Great question. In some cases especially with tree branches in front of the birds, I opted to use the 1-area focus so I could focus on the eyes. And for small birds it's quick to find the eyes that way too. I have started using the animal detection, and I will work on using it more in future videos. And I've also started using pin-point focus for small birds.
@@ImageMaven many thanks for that. I'm looking forward to the next G9 firmware update in 2 days, supposedly implementing the auto focus from the S5!
@@andymartin3962 Me too. Can't wait to test it out.
@@ImageMaven Would like to see a video on specifically this one day
Have you played with the ' AF Custom Setting ( Photo ) ' modes for shooting birds in flight ? You are soo wright about familiarizing oneself with what the camera - me = G9 - can do. Always enjoy your videos.
Hi Ray, Yes, I have played with that a bit. I will be testing that more and then covering that AF setting in my birds in flight tutorial. Not sure when exactly I'll be putting that together, but thank you for the reminder about that AF setting. Cheers!
@@ImageMaven ://mirrorlesscomparison.com/stories/panasonic-g9-birds-in-flight-firmware/ This might help some.
@@rayjenkins2754 Thanks Ray.
Marlene, I'm really liking my new G9 mki but still struggling with birds with my 100-300 mkii lens. I've rewatching yours and other videos and probably need to up my iso some,. I've gone from P and A priority to M and trying that. A little frustrating as you hope a new camera will be better than your older camera. Thanks for any help.
Hmm what's the exact problem? You didn't say. Out of focus? Motion blur? Noise?
My current starting formula is: M exposure mode. 1/1000s for moving birds. For that lens you can go to 1/400s or so for sitting birds. Auto ISO. And your biggest f-stop. So in that case f/4 or 5.6. Just set it to f/4 and as you zoom into the 300mm range it will automatically hit f/5.6.
The caveat for any camera/lens combo is that you need a lot of sunlight. A bird in a dark tree in low light (e.g. owl at sunset in winter) will not give great results. Also review the focus set up. Make sure your firmware is up to date as there are human/animal focus settings that came out with later updates. I have a couple videos on that as well as the focus settings. If you can't find them, let me know. Hope that helps.
60p, iso 400, not sure f/stop
Ah it's video you're asking about. Thought you were asking about photo settings. Here's a good starting point for video th-cam.com/video/91-DvWPKH8I/w-d-xo.html
Is version 2 of 100-300mm is sharper or any better than version 1?
From what I know, the new version has stabilization and weather sealing. As far as focus goes, I've not tested it.
@@ImageMaven I have the "old" version of the 100-300 mm. lens. It has O.I.S. but doesn't "talk" to the G9 so there's no dual stabilization even with firmware updates for both the lens and camera. Great videos, by the way. Very informative to newbies to the G9. I upgraded from the G6 last year.
@@mariannepreston9903 Hi Marianne. I have a couple of those "old version" lenses too. But hopefully that' doesn't hinder you too much. We just have to go old school with them and use the 1/focal length rule or stick the camera on a tripod or monopod if things get wiggly. Thanks for stopping by. I hope you enjoy your G9 as much as I still do. Cheers.
Hi Marlene, thanks for sharing this video. Since I started watching your video's I also started using the manual mode on my Limux G80 (with 100 - 400 mm lens for birding) instead of Aperture priority or Shutter priority. But now I have a question. Which setting do I change when I want to overexpose or underexpose? It seems that I have to do that with the ISO with the same shutter speed and aperture setting. Which technique do you use? Thanks in advance. Greetings from the Netherlands.
Hi Albert. If you’re using Auto ISO you can use the Exposure compensation button +/- and it will change the ISO. But If you’re using manual ISO as well, you can adjust ISO, f-stop or shutter speed manually. Hope that helps. Thanks for the question.
@@ImageMaven Hi Marlene, your answer helped me a lot. I did not know about using the exposure compensation button for changing the ISO. Thanks a lot.
maybe you can answer this. I am using the 100-300 lumix on my g9 and have iso to auto. set shutter, set f stop and noticed f5.6 @ 100mm i get 800 iso but at 300mm it changes to 1200 or more. metering is metering right? Or does the lens loose light as i zoom?
Metering is metering as long as the light doesn’t change. Point your camera at an 18% grey card or a white wall with EXACTLY the same amount of light filling the frame. But also 800 to 1200 ISO is only 1/3 stop so I’m not surprised you get a bit of variation when you zoom in because what’s in the frame likely changes - unless it’s a blank white wall. Hope that helps!
Hi - do you use the 100-400? And if so can you use it hand held? I do a lot of kayaking and am wondering if it would work in that scenario. Am leaning toward the 100-300...THANKS!!!
Hi Dan, I recently used that lens for some birding. I made a video about it. I’ll share the link. For me it’s a bit heavy but it’s very sharp. I’m still on the fence about it. Mostly because I bird for fun so it’s not a necessity. And it’s nearly triple the price. I use the 100-300 nearly every day. But I think if a good used 100-400 was available I’d get it. Cheers!
Here's that link to my 100-400mm video Dan: th-cam.com/video/YcwFcV4G3Yc/w-d-xo.html
Did you find this lens ( 100-300) worked well as a entry wildlife lens if on a budget? Also, some with the lens state hard to balance on a tripod or monopod, what did you experience and thoughts on a extra mounting ring I've seen out there? Thanks and you converted me a while back to BBF and I'll never go back either.
Definitely a great entry level super-telephoto, especially for the price. Every lens past this one is more than double the price. I'm going to rent the 100-400mm for the spring bird migration to see how it compares. But I know even that lens is too rich for me, and I'll never own it. Check out my video called Zero to Birder, for my overall thoughts on the 100-300mm. And if you're not sure, rent a couple to compare, if you can. I'm sure you can find used telephoto lenses too. As for the extra mounting ring, I didn't use this lens much on a monopod, but I don't think it's necessary for this lens as it's not super heavy compared to the bigger more expensive lenses in this super-tele category. But I suppose for some people it's worth it. Thanks for stopping by!
@@ImageMaven Great info especially on the results you got and the weight/handling. With all my research, entry level, sounds like hard to beat the price to benefit. Sounds like a keeper, but if every wanted to move way up, could definitely find a buyer or pass along to family member or friend getting started. But, sounds like it would meet all the needs of the true novice like me just wanting to reach out a little further than the kit lens 12-60 which has just been awesome. Thanks for all the great info and I'll check out the video you mentioned. Merry Christmas.
Is 100-300 realy sharp? I use 45-150.I want to update for more extra reach.
It will most likely be sharper than your 45-150mm. Just make sure you get the 100-300mm II version. Not the original. It's a great lens for the price.
Thank you mam. 😊
Marlene, new major Firmware 2.4 for the G9 coming on June 9th seen here starting at about 8:27 -
th-cam.com/video/rw5aiklx5IM/w-d-xo.html
More details here for the G9 including for the G100 -
www.cined.com/panasonic-announces-new-firmware-updates-for-lumix-gh5s-g9-and-g100/
Thanks so much. Looking forward to seeing what's new.
Merci !
Thank you kindly!
...the sharper way is to by a viltrox EF-M1 and a used 55 - 250 STM from Canon. You save a lot of money and earn better results. I tested it. The only good solution from Panasonic for birding is the expensive 100 - 400Leica!
I'm very happy with the sharpness of this lens. No regrets buying it.
@@ImageMaven Ok, it´s not so bad till 200 mm, but there are much sharper solutions, for less money. I use it for flowers an insects. perhaps the G9 can cope better with it, than my G85. Now there is un update for it ( for the power version ) I will try...
Well I've already spent the money so not going to spend even more. I'm happy with this lens. Very happy.
No Dual/sinc IS
$1000 em1 markii + 100-300mm
2lb
$2000 em1 markii + 100-400mm
3.5lb
Dual IS
$1000 g9 1.45lb +100-300mm1.1lb
2.55lb
$2000 G9 1.45 lb+100-400mm2.17lb
= 3.6.2lb
$4000 Em1x 2lb 300mm 2.8 lb
= 4.8lb
$9500 em1x 2lb +150-400mm 4.08lb
= 6.07 lb
Olympus Why didn't they put sinc IS in 100-400mm
because they save the best for the pros and put it in the 150-400mm lens this is why Olympus isn't #1camera company
Thanks Marlene. I suggest you check out Nature Image Photography if you have not yet. The photographer uses a Panasonic G9 and the leica 100-400mm lens. On Facebook. He has similar advice to yours.
Thanks for the tip Chris. And thank you for watching.
Thanks Marlene you are a wonderful teacher.