Bird hunters favourite lenses.

[DaleP]

Out of curiosity, what do people in here prefer to use when stalking birds? What's your favourite lens? Do you use tc's much or prefer to just use the main lens only?

[liquidstone]

Out of curiosity, what do people in here prefer to use when stalking birds? What's your favourite lens? Do you use tc's much or prefer to just use the main lens only?

I prefer a lighter lens when stalking birds and avoid using TCs for faster shutter speeds and better optical quality. By stalking, I take it to mean that I'd be trying to get close to the bird and shoot hand held.

If there's enough light, I use the 400 5.6L for wide open sharpness. In lower light, or if I need to shoot very close, the 100-400 L IS comes in handy.

Romy

[GyRob]

i nearly always use my 500f4isL it lets you get closer because of the reach it has.
Rob

[dancinec]

The only lens I have the 100-400 l lens. If I use a blind, then I would add the 1.4TC and a tripod.

[WepWaWep]

The trusty 100-400, unless someone has a 400 f2.8 laying around...

[Turbowolf]

100-400IS L

[cfcRebel]

I use my Sigma 50-500mm. I don't use my Sigma 1.4xTC much because of the same reasons mentioned by Liquidstone.

[Sindri Skulason]

I use the Bigma (Sigma 50-500mm f4-6.3 EX DG HSM). Fell in love with this lens from day one. ;-) Usually the reach of the Bigma is enough to get the shot I want but the TC (1.4x) can come in handy in situations where it is not possible get closer to the subject by any other means. I also use it when I want to be sure not to disturb the birds for one reason or another.

[dispatchermike21]

100-400mmL IS for know want to upgrade to the 400mmL Is 2.8 but I'm sure I will settle for the 400L 5.6 I like the versitility of zoom but I want the sharpness of a prime.

[ZipDude66]

My favorite is the 85mm 1.8 for birds. For stalking birds the wife's 400 5.6 get to go for a ride on my 20D. Once I know where the birds are going to be out comes the 500 f/4 and I don't hesitate to use a 1.4 TC on it.

Zip