Free said:It sounds like its a Border line tripod case. I will see without first and then make my mind up.
Anyone got any shots with this set up? Would love to see a fewQUOTE]
Tripod really depends on where you'll be. As i said, in a hide, it's a pain and a bean bag is the best. On a cliff top, shooting over the sea, a tripod will probably come into its own. Shooting ratpters flying overhead, you'll need to hand-hold. You'll get to be comfortable using different techniques depending on the situation.
As i don't have the Sigma, i can't show you any shots using that set-up, but take a look at a few i've got in my gallery (link below), almost all at 500mm (Tamron 200-500). Mostly either hand held or on beanbag. Some using monopod. Don't think any were done using a tripod!!
http://www.birdforum.net/pp_gallery/showgallery.php/cat/500/ppuser/18597
DOC said:( I don't know why the Tamron 200-500 is not getting so much attention - looks like a good lense to me ).
rezMole said:I think it's cos it is quite a new lens, and many members of BF seem to already be fans of Sigma. If you wanted a decent zoom at a reasonable price, then basically you were limited to Sigma before. I've never used the Sigma, so i can't comment - but the Tamron is great lens for the price. So far, i haven't read a bad review of it.
I was toying with the Sigma 50-500 which cost about the same, but thought the Tamron might have the edge, due to not having such a wide zoom. What swung it for me was that EVERY review i read said it was best when wide open at F6.3. As that's what you end up shooting at to keep the shutter speed fast, i considered this a good point.
I, for one, have never had any doubt that i made the right choice - and i usually have loads of doubts about my purchases!
DOC said:-Just to wet your appetite- the attached photo was taken with a D-70 and a Sigma 70-300 ( DL.....) - from a range of about 12 feet.
It's a Spur - winged Lapwing.
So with your 400 m"m - you'll even get a bigger head shot!!!
Waiting to see your pics .