Who Chose the 300 f4 over the 100-400 for Birding and Why?

Baimei wrote:

sdw1 wrote:

Baimei wrote:

Hi Doc

If you can, you really should try the 300/4 on an EM1 or EM5II for yourself.

Since I already had the Olympus 150/2 and the 1.4x and 2.0x converters, I had convinced myself that I didn't want one, but my friend at the camera store kept a lens for me to try when it was first released. They sold the other two which arrived in the same shipment, immediately.

Within five minutes, I changed my mind. The stabilization system is incredible, and I couldn't believe I was handholding a lens with that field of view with the slow shutter speeds that were possible, while maintaining such a high degree of sharpness.

I had used Canon L telephoto lenses for many years previously, but it just wasn't possible to do that without a tripod.

With the 1.4x attached, I still prefer using a monopod or tripod.

I haven't tried the Panasonic 100-400, since I prefer prime lenses.

Later

Rick

Thanks for the reply Rick. I think you are right - I'll have to try it. It can be rented for a week for about $140.00 and I could try it out that way. I have yet to see one in the wild.

Its hard to wait - especially since I'm already set up to get a lot out of it... ...been practicing handholding with the EM5 II, 40-150 Pro, MC-14, (75-300 II when I had it) and EE-1 dot sight. The dot sight works really well for me - making tracking birds in flight easier. It's my other camera skills that need to improve! Ha!

Did you buy the one at the camera store? I've heard nothing but good about the sync stabilization between the EM1 or EM5 II and the 300 F4. Its compelling.

I think Panny and Oly have changed the game for m43.

Regards,

Doc

Hi Doc

Yes, it's a good idea to rent one. I suspect that you will really like it. Plus you already have the MC-14.

I did buy the one at the camera store, right away. The price didn't seem so bad, once I handled the lens! I also kept my 150/2, which now gets used without the 2x converter. I do use it with the 1.4x when needed.

I use the red dot sights, too. They help a lot with lenses like this, when you have to deal with moving subjects.

Rick

Having the 150mm ƒ2.0 and both TC's is the reason I am able to hold out on the 300mm ƒ4.0.  When I do add the 300 I will still take the 150 with me because for most of my gator photography the 300 would be to much reach.  I thought about selling the EC-20 but think I will keep it around for times when I can only bring one lens but may need something shorter.