First huge lens - newbie question

[yezzer]

Hi forum! :)

First post and all that..

I've got my first ever big lens - a Sigma 50-500mm. My really basic, stupid question is how should i handle it when the camera is attached? I assume that I should not just handle the camera, as the lens would snap off, breaking my beloved D200..

I assume this is right...? :)

[mike from ebbw]

You should really keep the weight on the tripod mount below the lens and not put any stress on the camera mount.

And a very warm welcome to the Birdforum.

[Duke Leto]

Hi and welcome, might be overkill but have a read of http://www.naturephotographers.net/ejp0801-1.html

[Telecorder]

Congrats on your Bigma. The linked page on long lens techniques is a good one to follow. I carry my D50 + Bigma by the lens' leg (even has finger 'rolls' for you!)

In use, it'll be better to use a monopd/tripod -- especially starting out until you've improved on your technique.

For birding, I typically use spot-AF (manual focus if intervening branches); center-weighted exposure; shutter-priority at >1/640 & Auto-ISO to let the camera bump the ISO to get the needed shutter speed. Once you've developed your long lens technique, BIF (Birds in Flight) is doable using AF-C and burst mode..


Enjoy!

[yezzer]

Congrats on your Bigma. The linked page on long lens techniques is a good one to follow. I carry my D50 + Bigma by the lens' leg (even has finger 'rolls' for you!)

In use, it'll be better to use a monopd/tripod -- especially starting out until you've improved on your technique.

For birding, I typically use spot-AF (manual focus if intervening branches); center-weighted exposure; shutter-priority at >1/640 & Auto-ISO to let the camera bump the ISO to get the needed shutter speed. Once you've developed your long lens technique, BIF (Birds in Flight) is doable using AF-C and burst mode..


Enjoy!


good tips - thanks :)

[Hauer]

Hi Yezzer - welcome on board!

I too have the Bigma and am till now extremely happy with it. I'm currently even looking into adding a teleconverter (1.4x) for even more range but have as yet not finalised my decision to purchase. I've noticed that playing around with the ISO values can dramatically influence Bigma performance during cloudy / overcast conditions. Recommend you experiment with this.

I've taken reasonable shots handheld @320mm. For further range a tripod is recommended. I mentioned my tripod in the equipment review of this site. The Vanguard Tracker series (mine is type III) is extremely sturdy and great to use in combination with the Bigma.

Hope you enjoy your new lens as I do mine!

Cheers - Herman