Semi-beginner birder in M43, where to go from now (picture heavy)

Longan wrote:

Thanks for the comment and advices.

About the flash. That was my first reaction too, but then on the video shared above, the birds do not seem to even notice it. I was curious about it. In fact I am birding mostly in two areas : South-East France (Provence / Alps) (wher light conditions are generally excellent... except in early morning / early evening) and Taiwan (amazingly dark underwood.... but also much more different birds). For the "underwood" scenario, it does not look that even the 300 f/4 will save me, but the flash is a new idea to me... In fact, as shown in a pic above, I was so desperate that I used the 75mm f1.8. I tend to think that in France the 300 f/4 will be perfect while in Taiwan the 200mm f/2.8 could be an even better option (?) but I cannot plan on getting both... and I am in France 90% of the time.

The few times I've tried flash, the birds don't seem to mind, I guess it's a bit like sunlight glinting through the trees.  But people nearby can sometimes frown upon the use of flash, so I feel it's probably only a tool to use when away from the crowds.  Plus if dozens of photographers were using flash in the same small area, it may well be a problem for the birds (causing them to miss seeing prey or predators for instance).

The 200 f/2.8 really does sound like something worth investigating.  The depth of field at 200 f/2.8 might be a bit thin in some situations, but it could be stopped down, with f/2.8 held in reserve.  The 300 wide open at f/4 makes the depth of field very slim too, so f/4 at this FL is not necessarily a good default either.

Nearly everything you shoot will turn out better with faster lenses. Get the 300 f4. Get the 40-150 and 1.4 TC. Then get a second body so you don’t need to change lenses.

And get a flash for fill in dark light. An FL-50R and fresnel magnifier is good.

HRC2016 wrote:

Oly is expected to release two new zooms this year. Those will lower the prices of the Panny 100-400. It would suck to spend $1700 on a lens now that you can get used for half that price in a few months. Plus, you may want to get one of the new Oly lenses yourself!

I don't recommend using a flash on animals. It does not benefit them. If you appreciate wildlife you need to consider their needs, not your own wants.

They need food.  I want well lit wildlife.  I'm open to working a deal.