Great video. Nice to hear from an adult that understands the limitations imposed by optic physics on lens design. Also you gave people practical advice about using these lens, rather than photographing charts on a wall. And you gave us a look at the quality of the images obtainable with these lens and body combinations. Once again exceptional video. Thank you.
Hi Brent, I have to say what a brilliant video, kudos to you. I have never watched one of your videos before and I can happily say this won't be my last. Your points, views and information about the 800mm on a R body especially the R5 & R6 is great. I love the unbiased way you give the pros and cons about the 800mm, your video is one of the best photography videos on a lens I have watched for a long time, keep up the good work from a new subscriber.
Hi Brent, I really love watching you video’s. I have a Canon R6 mirrorless camera. I am getting to retire and I am starting to build up my lenses. I love nature photography and plan on including it into my vacations. I have a limited budget so therefore was wondering, should I purchase the Canon RF 800 f/11 or the Tamron 150-600 g2. I already have the Tamron 100-400 and love it.
Thanks for this Brent, and all your other vlogs regarding theCanon RF 800mm f/11. I watched this and ordered one which I took out for the first time with my R6 yesterday, and I have to say I was gobsacked at the quality of the images at ISO 6400 (it was a dull day), and I got 2 keepers of a Kingfisher the likes of which I never thought I could achieve. Love the simple honest reviews, keep em coming.
As a "re-beginning" photographer, I can really appreciate the very technical explanations in a very understandable layman fashion. I was on the fence with this Tamron as I have an SL1, but your advice has convinced me to step out! I am ordering today with high hopes when the Meadowlarks return in the Spring!! Thank you!
Hi Brett, love your videos, this one was super informative, i bought a tamron 150-600 g2, after your review and im very happy with it, i have a dslr and i want to purchase an R5. My first question is about the compatibility of the tamron with the R5, there is any issue with it? Did you need to update your lens through the tap in device??. And my second question is about you shimoda backpack, which one is? Im searching about the “Shimoda action x50”. thanks for all!!
Hey thanks! No, there's no compatibility issue b it works great on both my R5 and R6. I did not have to update the lens or anything. And yes, the bag I have is the action x50. It's the best bag I've ever had.
Hi Brent , awesome video and thanks for clarifying lot of things . Question about Tamron 150-600, do you miss lot of shots ? (Out of focus or blurry) ? Thanks
So, when I did this video, the lens performed okay, and while the af still wasn't as good as native lenses, it worked decently enough, but since then Canon has done a lot of firmware updates on their mirrorless bodies and the 3rd party lenses just don't work well enough to be trusted (at least for me), so unfortunately I don't use any 3rd party lenses anymore.
Brent, I'm not a pro like you, just an old lady skywatcher, but this was a really informative review, thanks so much for taking the time and effort to put this together. I love the RF 800mm lens even with the RF 2x extender on it. I use it for filming the planets and moon, and then getting even extra reach past the 1600mm by using an external recorder and the camera's magnify zoom of 5x-10x which can be recorded externally. I was surprised that at F/22 that the camera can still auto focus, which amazed me. Anyway, thanks again for doing this. :)
were you able to photograph jupiter with the rf 800 and the x2 extender? I've seen some of your videos as well i know you photographed and did videos of the moon but were you ever able to do jupiter? my current gear isn't powerful enough to capture it which was why i was wondering if you used this lens and 2x extender to photograph or video it
@@RandomGuy-qn2fr Hello there, yes, I do film Jupiter & Saturn with the RF800 & 2x extender but doing so in video and not photos. If you check my latest videos I do have both those planets along with the moon.
Brent, this is a really great video because you talk about reality more than specs. I'm so glad you went off on your 'tangent' because you made a point that we all need to think about more. That point is that if you are photographing birds, there is some distance at which a lens will not be able to resolve fine detail. Last year at Bosque is borrowed a 600mm Big White from the Canon table and shot it on my 5Dmiv with a 1.4x. It was amazing, but I still found that eagles atop the dead tree in the 1st pool were only ok. Why, because they were 1000' away. For me, I think I'll sell my 7Dmii, 100-400, and 1.4x and buy the RF 100-500. That extra 100mm feels necessary. I've shot 100k images with the 7d & 100-400 and I know how to make that work. But the 100-400 on full frame isn't enough. I'm in western PA so I shoot warblers and sparrows in darker forest so I can't get any closer than the birds will allow. I've only had my R5 for a week so I'm still learning. I want to use the amazing video functions but can't get my computer to play anything I shoot. I'm hoping you can do something on that subject showing how you've set the camera up and how you process the video. Sorry for the long winded comment but you really hit the nail on the head on so many points. Well done! Thanks again for the great content.
Hey thanks for the comment, and the kind words Dave! I definitely know the struggle of the eagles in pond 1, lol. I lead workshops there a lot in the winters and there's always someone in the group who tries to photograph them way out there and I always try to tell them to not even bother, and to wait until they come closer. I definitely want that RF100-500 too, and I'm saving up for it, but it'll be a while cause that thing expensive! I do plan on doing some more settings videos about the R5 and R6 and how I have them set up for wildlife. I was also toying with a video on how, why, and when I film in 8K with the R5. If you like more of the technical stuff, and want to see how I edit more images and set things up and the bts, I do more of that stuff with the green and chai tea member levels of the channel memberships. I am going to try to get on that R5 and R6 settings video here pretty soon though.
Great video! Some the best wildflower photos I’ve ever taken were with that 150-600. The photos out of the 800 are impressive. Your second breakfast is well deserved. 🤠
Thank you very much for a thorough and honest review. I sold my Tamron 150-600 G2 and bought the Canon 100-400. Very happy with that decision. How does the RF 800 compare to the Tamron in terms of sharpness? Thank you.
Thanks for the kind words John! I think in good conditions they're both pretty sharp, though I might give a very unscientific slight edge to the 800mm (again, only in good conditions, with a decently close subject).
Brent, I have been shooting Nikon for 50 years. Really! I have lots of big glass like a 600f4, etc. I have played with Sony's new stuff and the Nikon Z series, but with these two new f11 lenses I had to buy my first Canon. I know, been shooting forever and never shot or held a Canon. So, I got an R6 and the 600m f11, The 800m is on the way. I live on the water in Florida. I shoot daily. Your video is so spot on. This combo is nothing short of amazing. I shot a wood stork today in the afternoon at ISO1250 at 1/1250. The results are incredible. The focusing system on the R6 is so easy. The combo is great. This morning I shot pelicans because that is what was around. The way the focus tracking hung on to the birds was fantastic. I used the mechanical shutter which is plenty fast enough. This 600 f11 prime is really good and fun.....but if you are used to carrying heavy SLR's or even Mirrorless with big glass, this this guy is very sharp, light and fun. Oh, and with a background that is a good distance from you subject, you get plenty of bokeh. Anyway, great video and your experience is just what I experienced today. Anyone shooting wildlife will love these lenses. Thanks.
Hey thanks for the kind words Ralph, I appreciate it! That's awesome to hear. You have such great birding in that area for sure! I definitely appreciate the AF system of the r5 /r6 and the weight savings of the 800. It makes a huge difference for me not to have to carry around big heavy setups all the time.
Thanks for the video. I have this lens along with the 100-500. You will love the 100-500, its a great lens. I'm looking now to see if you have a video on the 70-200. F2
I got the 1-5 shortly after this video and have had it ever since. It is definitely my favorite lens! I don't have the rf 70-200 f/2.8, I only have the f4 version.
I have r6 body , I am enthusiastic bird photographer ,after watching your video ,I am going to buy rf 800 . Thank you for unbiased opinion . Your new subscriber from india .
Torn between the RF 600, 800 and Tamron 150-600. I have several lenses and 1.4/2.0 TC so it seems logical for me to get the 800 which does not overlap with my existing setup. I can get 800mm by using my 100-400 with a 2x TC but I don't get good results with the 2x TC. Most of my photography is outdoors (hiking, camping, 4x4) so non-weather sealed is a major bummer. I also realize I need to start committing to RF. Canon IBIS is most utilized with RF IS. So far looks like RF 800mm with my EF 100-400 with optional 2x would be a great combo just like you described. Helpful video! Thanks!
My 100-400mm II. So I am making the move to mirrorless. I briefly considered Sony but have decided on an R6/100-500mm/RF800mm. I will wait to purchase the 100-500mm to see if the price come down, I forsee this lens being used later on an APS-C "R7" later. Thanks for your review here that backs up my thinking.
Thanks very much, Brent, for a very thorough evaluation. I'm looking forward to getting the R6 and the 800mm in late fall. Hope Canon has a Christmas special!
Excellent! For fast birds in flight it pretty difficult compared to the RF 100-400mm in terms of auto tracking and auto focus. 2024 I bought the RF 800m F/11 used in excellent condition for $600.
Another great video, but do have a couple of questions: A. How do the following setups compare to the tamron and the canon 800mm; especially for IQ: 1. R5 body coupled with the 100-400mm II and the 1.4x teleconverter for 560 mm f/8, and 2. canon 7d II with the 100-400mm II and 1.4x teleconverter for 896mm and f/8. B. IF canon releases an ASPC mirror less body (1.6x crop) - what affordable lense would you recommend?
Well I haven't done any scientific tests, or any tests really, that encompass those combos. I still prefer the 800 to the 100-400 with TC most of the time (unless maybe I needed the weather sealing). I personally wouldn't ever consider the 7D2 anymore (I sold mine a long time ago and never looked back), so that one's out for me. (I still think it's a great budget camera for entry level stuff though) If canon came out with an APS C mirrorless, personally I still wouldn't get it (can you tell I'm not a fan of crop bodies?) but that's just my personal tastes based on my experience, my current gear, and my shooting style. I wouldn't take anything over my R5 at this point. But if you were to get said APS C mirrorless, I'd still recommend the same lenses. The most versatile and budget friendly being the Tamron 150-600 g2. Again, these are all just my personal preferences, and everyone's different, for their needs and styles, etc. It just comes down to what you think would would for your budget, comfort, and style of shooting.
Hi sir. I borrowed my friend’s sigma 150-600mm and the auto focus is very very suck. I wonder do you have the same experience with Tamron G2 as well or it works fine for you ?
A most enjoyable, easy to watch video on the RF800. I, normally come away from most reviews with more questions than answers or solutions but you covered everything a viewer could want to know about this lens. Before I could finish the review, my finger was compelled to find and click the subscribe icon. Looking fwd to your other videos. Nicely done and much appreciated, Brent.
Thanks, I appreciate the kind words! Yes I am definitely considering that, but it'll take me a while to save up to but it. I will rent it beforehand though, to review it. Hopefully soon.
Hi Brent, great video, really enjoyed watching it.. I live in London, Uk and I've just bought the R6 & 600mm F11. Used it on some squirrels in the park and owls so far, both on gloomy days and the results are decent enough for the lighting. Just wondering, where did you get your camo coat from please?
@@BrentHall Thanks for getting back to me. I had a crazy session with a barn owl again today. They came out for second breakfast. Ha! Could you link it for me please? Stay safe. Andy.
Hi. I really enjoyed the video. I have one question that I hope you will answer, though. You said that you wouldn’t extend the 100-400. Why is that? Is it because of sharpness, focus speed or another reason? I am a happy amateur, but I would of course want as good and sharp pictures as I can get. I consider the 100-400 extended, so I would like to hear your justification for your choice. I would think that the 100-400 would give great quality, even extended?
If you're talking about adding a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter on there, then yeah, I don't generally like to add TCs to zoom lenses, but that's just me. I made a video about it with the 100-500, which is similar. ru-vid.com/video/%D0%B2%D0%B8%D0%B4%D0%B5%D0%BE-iRb9XfAe9_4.html&ab_channel=BrentHall
Hi Brent, I'm subscribing to your channel b/c I love the fact that you are using similar camera equipment as myself and your passion for wildlife. Looking forward to your future videos!
Hey thanks for the sub, and the kind words, I really appreciate that! Check out my wildlife playlist if you want to see more wildlife specific videos. I've got quite a few on there. :)
I'm a Nikon shooter so the review of the 800mm doesn't apply to me, but still such a helpful video! Walking through the pros and cons of these lenses in such a logical way was really great. I think the points you made are applicable to other lens and camera decisions and will really help me think through some of this stuff in the future. Thanks!
on a sunny day your birds in flight are sharp. On a sunny day, r u able to get sharp photos of the elk running with the 800mm Fll and did it focus/tract their eye when their running?
No, you shouldn't have to get any lenses calibrated on a mirrorless camera, unless the lens has a firmware update or something, in Tamron's case, then you would need their TAP console.
Thanks for the wonderful review! I have the Tamron 150-600 G2 and I'm using it with the Canon 80D for small birds photography. It's time for me to upgrade to a mirrorless camera and I can afford the R5 but I'm worried about loosing the reach that I'm getting from the crop sensor. Can you please advise if I should buy the R5 or wait to the R7?
In my personal opinion, reach is overrated and unnecessarily relied upon. The R5 is so much better of a camera, in every way, than the 80D, or any other Canon camera out there, it's not even funny. Also in my personal opinion, I wouldn't wait around for something that's not even officially announced yet, especially if you have the money and need to upgrade to something awesome right now.
Hey which Body have you been using here? EOS R or R5/6? Thank you in advance and for the awesome video which i will watch when i will be cooking today :)
That really depends on what all you mainly photograph and if you think you have enough light (on average) to deal with the f11. Personally, I wouldn't want the 800 as my only long lens, and I certainly wouldn't sell a zoom telephoto to get it. that's just me though, I do a lot more than just wildlife and the zooms are too valuable to me.
Great video! Yes, no matter whether you have the 800 F/11 or 800 F/5.6, if the subject is too far away and you end up cropping substantially, prepare for disappointment. Couldn’t agree more. I had both lenses and sold the f/5.6, kept the F/11. Here are some reasons why I made that decision: 1. I wasn’t getting out enough with the f/5.6. It is ridiculously heavy. I got more shots from the f/11 just because I can take it anywhere anytime. 2. Travel - it’s not easy taking the 800mm f/5.6 lens on a plane. Not at all.... 3. I do most of my shooting during the day, in well lit conditions. You might think there won’t be much foreground to background separation due to the narrow aperture BUT... and that focal length, you can still get a decent bokeh especially if the background is far away from the subject you’re shooting. 4. Can’t justify the price of the 800 f/5.4. Of course for some the 800 f/5.4 is a must because it is required (pro wildlife, sunrise/sunset, shootings in dark conditions etc). All in all, I’m very happy with the 800mm f/11 because I understand the limitations and make sure I’m working within them.
Excellent content, and perfect timing. I'm switching from a 5D Mark IV to the EOS R5 and have been seriously considering the 800mm, in fact I pushed the button yesterday, and this has confirmed that I made the right choice. Unfortunately the lens is on back order, hopefully I get it for a birding trip to Florida in January. I currently have the sigma 150-600, and with the 5D and the 1.4x on, focusing in on small subjects is frustrating and almost impossible. It sounds like that will work a lot better with the R5 if I understand you correctly?.
Thanks for the video. I have a question for you. I am a Nikon APSC shooter with the Sigma 150 - 600 mm and love the combination. However, I am going to switch over and get the Canon R6 because of the much better autofocus system, especially for wildlife and BIF which is my favorite type of photography. With the Tamron 150 - 600 or the Sigma 150 - 600 on the R6 d you need to use the lens adaptor to make them compatible? If you use a 1.4xTC do you also need to use the lens adaptor as well? What do you think of the somewhat new RF 100 - 400 lens, it seems to have good reviews? I’m just afraid that the 100-400 mm length on a full frame R6 is too short, especially for me coming from the Sigma 150-600 on an APSC. Thanks!
Yes, you still need the adapter if you want the 1.4x tc on the 150-600. I actually did a review of the new RF 100-400 not too long ago. It will be much shorter than your 150-600 on your crop body camera, but it will be native RF with better AF, cheaper, and lighter. It's up to you weather any of that is more important than reach though.
Hi Brent, thank you for the review. Did you make any large prints with the 800mm and R5 or R6? I haven’t seen anybody show a large print from the combo. Keep up the video work.
Thank you Rene! I have only made some small prints with the R5 and 800, but I have some stuff I'm gonna print big here soon. I have printed a few very large prints from the R5 and R6 for my landscape stuff though, and they are holding up beautifully.
Great video. I have the Sigma 150-600. I use the Sigma 2x tele on it I have been pleasantly surprised by the great performance and image quality with the R5. I do get the sigh factor with the adapter plus the tele. It’s a lot.
Thanks Rocky! That's good to hear. I haven't ever tried the Sigma with their TCs, so it's good to know you're able to still get some decent results with that combo.
@@pinakiray2005 yes I do recommend it, it is way cheaper than anything else in this category and it is very sharp and easy to handle (I was so happy to find out I can use this lens handheld). You do need to remember that it is limited by the amount of light, so very early in the morning is more tricky
Mr Hall! My name is Lawrence I replied once on your video and I liked the feedback. I'm a fan of yours. I decided to get the R6 even though I'm just starting out I know I am not going to become a professional overnight. I seriously considered the new rfl series lenses but I decided to go with the sigma or the Tamron lenses. I did a lot of research and that's how I came up with this outcome. But I want to ask you which is more capable with an r6.? Sigma or Tamron? Which do you recommend? One of these I hope to hear from you I love your shows and I like that lens you're probably right about the lens that it is still too far but very interesting
Thanks man, I'm glad my videos are helping. I don't know though, I haven't tried the sigmas in direct comparison to the tamron, nor on any of my mirrorless bodies, so unfortunately I couldn't help you there. If it's a big concern for you then the best way to find out would be to rent them both and try them out on your R6. I know it will cost extra money, but it may be worth it for you to find out for yourself what will work best for your needs.
How do you feel about the 800 lens with the R6, that's the combination I have and I feel like I'm having some difficulty with getting sharp images,(flying birds),I think my shutter speed was a bit slow to.Do you recommend at starting double the focal length,and then maybe bumping it up from there?,btw I've only had the gear for about a week and still trying to tweak the settings,also thoughts on eye focus while tracking a flying eagle
I think it's a great combo. I haven't had any issues with it on my R6. Birds in flight are definitely tricky, especially at 800mm. I have found that I get a lot less keepers, even with the great af on the R5 and R6, if my shutter speed is below 1/2500 sec with the 800mm for birds in flight.
Yeah, when it comes to fast moving objects I don't think that the focal length matters that much when choosing the proper shutter speed. I assume that the formula based on focal length is more related to eliminating the blur caused by camera movement. 1/2500s is a very good starting point for BIF (well, if motion blur is not wanted). For something like hummingbirds with super fast wing movement you probably need faster shutter. There are none of those here in Finland so I'm not an expert regarding them 😂. But I have read that some feel that even 1/4000-1/5000s isn't fast enogh for Hummingbirds and in some cases going to 1/8000s cuts too much light. So they use flash with faster than 1/10000s duration. I like this technic for insect macro photography. Though for that you don't need that fast flash duration.
Hey Brent. Enjoyed your comments. Looking to get into Canon R. I parted with a pair of 7D’s and all my EF and EF-S lenses some time ago, since then using a Sony RX 10 and Canon G P/S. I’m not a pro and have not had any gigs in many months. But I itch to get back in. I have a Motorsport gig in October, and was considering an R5 or R6 plus RF 24-105 L plus RF 100-500 or perhaps the RF 800. In your parting comments you say you would pair the R6 with RF 100-500 and the R5 with the RF 800. Why is that? Is it because the R5 does hi ISO better than the R6?
If you don't need to do a lot of 8K video or super intense cropping, then you'd very happy with the R6 and spend the extra on good glass. The 1-5 is my all time favorite lens, and I've done a review on it, as well as a bunch of videos with it. I put the 800 on my R5 mostly because of the resolution, I want to be able to crop pretty heavily. The R6 actually has slightly better high iso handling though.
Thanks for an honest no glitz review Brent. I have been using the Canon 100-400 IS II (and old one before that) ever since I got my first 10D digital Canon. I have only used APS-C Canon and am concerned because I do want an R5 so I can crop more to make up for APS-C apparent size advantage. Have you tried the 100-400 with 1.4X (f8) and 2X (f11)extenders? That seems like a more economical way to go on paper (if you already own the 100-400) since you preserve close focus and probably sharpness? Do the extenders constrain the AF area with the 100-400 like the 800 f11 does?
Hey thanks for the kind words Peter, I appreciate it! I have tried the 1.4x on the 100-400 mk ii and it was fine, but that was on my dslrs. It should still be fine on the r5 too though. I used the 1.4x on the tamron 150-600 g2 and had no af limiting issues, it was able to still use all the focus points on the r5 and r6. I imagine the 100-400 would be the same.
I used a Kenko 300 series 1.4x on the 100-400mm MkII, with adaptor of course, on the r6, was really impressed- I'm wondering how much better the Canon 1.4x MkIII would be! I think I'll wait on the 100-500mm now, get the Canon 1.4x for the 100-400mm and add the 800mm f11.
Hi Brent, Great video! very informative.. Please can I ask - With the Tamron 150 600 G2. on the R6 or R5 - does the autofocus tracking work perfectly with birds in flight, or does it hunt, etc.. as I have heard there are some issues with this, so it would be great to hear your thoughts?
Are you still happy? I also have "just" the R and consider to buy the RF 800mm F/11- thank you in advance. Do you have maybe instagram with some sample shots of this combination EOS R + RF 800mm?
@@tomkro9704 Hi Tom, yes still happy with the RF 800 mm. It is very light also. I do have an instagram (pierre.boulay) and a 500px account (boulayp). The majority of the photos in last 2-3 months are with the 800 mm. The only downside with an 800 mm, sometimes you end up to close to the subject. You will also find a few shots of the full moon taken without the use of a tripod and came out great.
GREAT video Brent! Question, I have the EOS R, with the Canon RF-EF mount adapter, and the Tamron G2. I'm experiencing slow focus issues. If I throw the G2 on my 70D, focus is lightning fast. Is there anything I can do to speed it up on the EOS R?
Hi Brent, great video and review/comparison. A quick question. Have you tried a 2x converter on the canon 100-400 in comparison to the prime RF 800? Just wonder how IQ would compare.
I have used the 2x on the 1-4 mk ii back when I owned it, but I never directly compared those two. Personally I'd still go with my 800. It's native, it's lighter, it's cheaper, and based on my experience I'd wager the focusing would be more reliable. That's just me though, I've never been a fan of TCs for anything other than big fast primes.
Many thanks! No I never got the tripod collar for it. I mostly shoot handheld with it, except for when I'm doing astro, in which case I just attached it with the lens mount where the collar would go.
Hi Brent, great analysis video, love it. I am a still photographer learning to shoot BIF, what would you suggest, R6 or R5? They both have same auto focus and eye tracking system and equally fast, I need your professional advice. Thank you
Thanks for the comprehensive review! I have just pulled the trigger on the 800 and really looking forward to shooting some wildlife for the first time. Would it be extremely naive of me to suggest a cheap work around for weather sealing by just using plastic bag with the bottom cut out?
Sure thing Ray, I'm glad the video helped! Hey, whatever you need to do to get the shot. If you need weather-sealing then I'm sure that would be better than nothing. :)
Brent, Thanks for the evaluation. I'm trying to decide whether to buy a Canon RF 2x teleconverter for my 100-500 RF or the RF 800 for extra reach. Based upon your experience that the more expensive lens will outperform the 800, any reason you would choose it over the 2x teleconverter? Thanks, Mike
Typically I don't like 2x TCs unless I'm using them with a big white f4 lens, but i haven't tried the new RF one so I can't really comment on that. Personally though, I'd probably lean towards taking my RF 800 over the 100-500 with a 2X on it. I will eventually make a video on that very subject, but it depends on when I can get my hands on all the stuff I need for it. The 1.4x tc does do very well with the 100-500 though, and I might, just might, end up with that setup over my RF800 at some point. The 800 is just so incredible for me though, because of where I live, and most importantly, how light it is. For me it makes a huge difference and I just love using it. I think it would compliment the 100-500 better than a 2x tc if you can swing the price.
@@BrentHall I have subscribed and I’m now watching your past content. Looking forward to your channel as well as all future comparisons with the 800. 👍🏼 Thanks, Mike
Hi Brent I just came across this video. I have the Sigma 150-600C lens. It's been great, but it gets heavy after a while. I'm always looking for longer. But, I'm also interested in the RF100-500. Have you tried the Tamron with the 1.6 activated in the R5? Also, does the IBIS work in conjunction with your Tamron lens? I always shoot the moon as well. I just got the R5 and have a 3 RF lens's so far. I was using my sigma on the EOSR and before that, the 7DMKII. (There is a rumor of the R7 coming next year) I guess my question is if I should keep the Sigma150-600 and get the 800F11 to compliment for when I know It will be good conditions, or sell the sigma and get the RF100-500. I usually shoot my sigma at F8 too F11 depending on what it is. The Sigma is a very good lens, so not unhappy with it lol. The OS could be better in it. This video was very interesting how you made it. I'm in north east PA.
I don't use the crop mode too much, or at all really. I just crop what I need in post. If you're happy with the sigma, then the rf 800 would be a nice compliment to it for sure. The canon 100-500 will be better than the Sigma for IQ and AF, and will be (IMO) a bit more versatile then the Sigma, but it's much more expensive.
Hi Brent, Thank you for the good review. I suppose you used the Tamron G2 on a 5D mark IV before you made the switch to the R5/R6. I am in the league to switch to the R5 an I am curious how fast the AF of the Tamron works on the R5 compared tot the Canon. I am happy with the AF speed with the 5D4 but if it gets realy slow I might sell the Tamron and opt for a Canon RF 100-500. Looking forward to hear from you!
Yeah, I used it on a lot of cameras, but mostly my 5D4 and 1DX2. I made a separate review about the lens, and mostly had it on those two bodies. I've never had any complaints about focus speed with the Tamron on any body I've used. The R5 upgrade was absolutely incredible and very worth it for me personally, and the tamron works very well with it. Tough choice though, between the tamron and the rf 1-5. If I had the money, I would go with the RF 1-5 personally. You loose 100mm, but it's native and much lighter, and can take the new RF TCs if you need a little more reach. On a budget though, the tamron is still the best lens out there though, in my opinion.
@@BrentHall Thank you for your reply. Very helpful! It is good to hear from a user that the Tamron works good with the R5. Since the RF 1-5 still isn't available I can use the Tamron for the time being or until I feel that is is good to move on to the 1-5. As far as I understand so far: the 1-5 works good with the TC 1.4 but less good with the 2.0 which produce less sharp pictures. Best regards, Ed
Great video Brent. I really wanted to hear someone’s opinion on the Tamron 150-600 G2, the Canon EF 100-400 II, the Canon RF500 and the Canon RF 100-500. Thank you for clarifying my thoughts.
All of those are great lenses, and all have their pros and cons, but overall my favorite is definitely the RF 100-500. It's my favorite lens of all time. I'll be finishing it's review video very soon.
Glad I could help! I've used it on my RP a couple times. The af is obviously not as good as the R5 and R6, but it's definitely still a solid little camera, and should be fine with the 800mm, as long as you've got some decent light.
@@BrentHall Thanks again. I live in NM, too, and photograph birds daily. I looking to move up from a 450mm equivalent (APS-C Pentax KP) to full frame mirrorless without investing in an R6. (I'd carry both.)
I always see the RF800 tested with the R5 or R6, but i cant afford to upgrade from my EOS R. I'm very tempted to buy this lens as i use a EF 400mm f/5.6L with 1.4 extender (the adapter makes this quite a handle). I'm always left wondering if Id be disappointed with the ISO performance with this lens and R camera.
The R5 and R6 are both a step up in terms of high iso performance from the R, but not drastically. The R still has a great sensor and I'd personally use the 800mm on if that's what I had. I've used it on my RP a couple times and it's been fine for most things, as long as you manage your expectations.
Hi Brent - Many thanks for the Video - can you please suggest if Tamron 150-600mm G2 will give good results with Canon 1200D. I am planning to go with this lens.
Good review for me with R & R5 with 100-400 II, Sigma 150-60 at B&H to get one but whether to add any Expensive RF TCs to the mix for this lenses and wihich one (s)?
Brent, great video as always…. I’ve to the 100-500 and looking at the 1.4x (even with it’s downside of 300 mm widest restrictions). I sold my 150-600 Tamron because of weight. Went directly to your web site and didn’t see the listing of new workshops (just 2021 balloon festival) but will check again. Thanks so much!
Hey thanks Steven, I'm glad you liked the video! Yeah, the 1-5 with the 1.4 is still a solid combo, even with the 300mm minimum issue. I haven't updated the website yet because I'm just not sure what I'm going to do about future workshops. I've been having a lot of cancelations lately due to people's travel restrictions and everything else related to the pandemic, so it's a bit difficult for me to commit to a full workshop right now. I am however, still running private workshops for individuals and/or small groups across the sw right now. I am doing places like Bosque del Apache, White sands, El Malpais, the Gila, and more (for wildlife, landscape, and/or astrophotography). These are great because they're much smaller, and I can do them more often and with much less hassle than a full workshop. So if you're interested in anything like that then just email me any time and we can make something happen.
Thanks so much for this detailed video. You have touched on so many things that are key to me. I have an R6, just sold my Tamron 150-600 G2 for many of the same reasons you describe, and I bought the EF100-400mm II - Love it. But also considering to go RF800 for longer reach. Great content Brent - you have a new subscriber and IG follower. Keep up the good work
I'm about to make the jump to mirrorless. Probably going to start with the R6, coming from the 90D. Never shot full frame before. Love how much better it will be in low light than the 90d. But I'm worried about losing that little bit of "focal length" from the 1.6 crop factor on the 90D, and I'm worried that the R6 is only 20 megapixels compared to the 32.5 on the 90D. Do you think that the Tamron at 600mm on the R6 with cropping will be better than the 90D at 600 with the additional 1.6 crop factor of the smaller sensor?
I think a lot of people get carried away with worrying about resolution. Don't get me wrong, I love my R5, but I won't hesitate to use my R6 for ANYTHING that I need to capture, whether it's for fun or for a paying gig/client. I think the upgrade to mirrorless and benefits will far outweigh the lower resolution. The R6 AF alone is worth it for me personally, not to mention the high iso performance. That's just my 2 cents though. also, I did another video recently about birding and wildlife photography with just the R6. It might help you get a better visual of my thoughts.
One problem I would have going on a hike with the 800mm lens is that as you said it's not a do everything Wildlife lens. It would seem like, as in your video, you would need to take it along with another lens also so instead of having less weight you would be carrying two pieces of glass while hiking.
I dont mean to criticize but: Glacial shutter speeds and does the autofocus even work at f11? I'd be more likely looking at the old tiny 1000mm & 500mm reflex lenses...
I don't know what you mean by glacial shutter speeds, but the AF works incredibly well at f11 on both the R5 and the R6, and it did just fine on my RP as well.
Good video. I have owned all of the lenses. I shoot Birds and love the 800 and 600. The reach is excellent. I have not had issues with f11. I was concerned about it but because the lens and the body have stabilization you can drop the shutter speed. With good NR software f11 isn’t a problem. The biggest problem is min. Focus distance for the 800.
This is the first video I have seen of yours and I am really impressed. A very honest review and not blowing smoke up the manufacturer's ass. I have to admit most US based reviews I totally ignore. They seldom deal with the negatives and only positives. In the UK we have a maritime climate, so a lot of dull days and the f11 would be challenging, the ISO helps but not enough, but the true deal-breaker is the lack of weather -sealing. You are worried about the sand, and I am worried about moisture. Push-pull isn't great with no weather sealing. I have the 100-400 Mk2 and it's great, I think the 1.4 Mk3 TC is pretty good, but the Tamron looks pretty good too and a little more reach. Do you find the autofocus as quick as the Canon 100-400? "Manage your expectations" - best advice of all! Some shots just can't be made. No lens hood? Jeez. That's ridiculous. Be patient and save for the 100-500, looks an awesome lens......
Hey thanks for the kind words man, I really appreciate that! I'm glad my video helped. I agree too, this lens is not right for everyone for sure. I think there are times when it would be fine where you are, but maybe not enough to justify it for some people, you know. I'm definitely looking forward to getting the 100-500, saving up and hopefully I'll have enough for it soon.
Great video. Thanks. Question for you. I just took delivery of my R5 but Canon is still on backorder with the EF/RF adapters so a bit frustrated. Anyway, I have the Tamron G2, have yet to try the RF 600 or 800. I have been leaning to trading in the G2 because of weight but am concerned about the F11 aperture here in the often dark and gloomy Vancouver Island winter days. Your thoughts appreciated.
Yeah, the adapter is the most frustrating part my switch too. Still trying to find some more Canon adapters, but for now the 3rd party ones I have are getting the job done. If you're in Vancouver, then I'd probably stick with the Tamron 150-600 G2 for now, especially if that's your only or main wildlife lens. It's weather-sealed, faster aperture, and way more versatile than the rf 800mm. Cropping from 600mm to 800, or even to 1000mm is no big deal on the R5 as well.
Excellent review. I didn’t expect to watch such a long review, but I did and really enjoyed it. I have the 800mm, which I’m using on my R, although I’m looking forward to using on my R5 that arrived yesterday. On the R it works well, but with ISO capability and auto focussing of the R5 I’m really looking forward to using it. No way I could afford or would want to spend the money on a faster 800mm lens, nor would I want to carry it around. Value for money, the f11 800mm is exceptional. Thanks for a very thorough, honest and balanced review.
Hey thanks man! I feel you though, I couldn't beieve I made an hour long review, lol. I didn't figure it would even do as well as it has already, but I figure that if it helps at least a few people then I'm happy.
Brent, sorry to hit you up. Is there any cannon contact I can get in touch with USA based to receive a loaner copy ?? We can talk private as well. I want to do a small review and am more interested in seeing in hand what my compromises will be using the 800mm f11 and RP/R/R5 setup. Thanks again Stafford.
Heya, I noticed you hold your camera up towards the sun a lot when you talk to the other camera. I believe the R5/R6 can burn the sensor if you do that a lot. Just FYI!
Thanks for looking out. I appreciate the tip. I've been trying to form the habit of putting my lens caps back on when not in use, but it's a work in progress.
@@BrentHall Yeah I literals never put lens caps on.. I keep the camera in a good spot where it won't get scratched typically.. and I have some dust cloths. It's a new to me camera (the R6) so I will also need to get used to it. I am still torn about gettin the 600 or 800.. ugh.. there is also a nice L 400L 5.6 about the same price, and used even better. I've never shot with a lens that long ever. I want to double it up for moon/sun photography so I am thinking the stabilization in these new lens's will out perform that 400.. but with the 400 I can get less noise.. also the lightness of that 600/800 sound amazing. I have no idea what I would prefer tho the 600 or the 800. I think the 600 would due.. I just don't want to be disappointed I didn't go to 800. I could imagine 600 to be quite shocking though after only having 135mm. I think 600 is more realistic.. I've just not hit buy yet!
@@BrentHall hell yea! Do you know if this combination gets eight stops of stabilization? I don’t recall what you get when you combine these two pieces together Do you have the hand with a + next to it on your screen?
@@Thomasjcolbert82 I think it's theoretically supposed to be like 7-8 stops of IS combined or something like that, though I don't feel like my real world usage is that high, maybe like 5-6 stops on average, but I haven't done any real tests on that. And yes, I have the hand with the plus sign on my screen.
Great video, my wife and I were stationed at Holloman twice. I didnt pick up photography until we PCs’d to Guam. Seems like you are answering a lot of the same questions I had.
Hey thanks man! That's cool! I used to go on Dets with my navy squadron to Holloman every once and a while and I always tried to get out to the dunes while I was out there, of course now I only live 2.5 hours away from them and luckily I go much more often now. I'm glad my video helped!
Superb video, I got a 150-600mm G2 with a 5DMKIV. after some microadjusting I just love It. I was thinking about getting the TC-x1.4x converter for the lens but you now I really have to think I over. Thanks!
Hi Brent, I am just not getting the sharpness with my 800 that I see in your amazing pics, the bird eyes are just a little blurry. My 100-500 gives me much sharper pics in the same setting. Any tips for me?
Well I'm pretty sure the RF 100-500 is a sharper lens all around, but it could be a number of things, including shutter speed, light, subject movement, heat haze, etc.
Hey Brent I posted under another video about comparing the Canon 800mm to the Tamron 800mm. This video was fantastic! I’m leaning towards the Canon 800mm so I can eliminate the adapter. Again thanks in advance for all your advice you give. 😊
Great review! I have both and cannot agree more with your insights. I really enjoy my RF800--still use the Tamron 150-600 but will be selling it in the near future to go all in on RF. I find the advantages with RF lenses are pretty compelling even at the price point. Next up is the RF100-500 followed by the RF 15-35. I already have the RF800 and RF 24-105L. Those four lenses will be my 'holy trinity'. Thanks again for a great down to earth (literally) review.
Hey thanks for the kind words Earl, I really appreciate that! I'm in the same boat. I've been saving up for the 1-5, feels like forever now, lol, and of course I finally get all the money and everywhere is out of stock!
