Nikon D500 VS SONY A9 - Bird Photography - Best Experience to Date!
View high res version of the images from this video on my website: msmithphotos.com
Costa Rica Photography Workshop 2019:
photoworkshopsandtours.com/ind...
Gear I Use: bhpho.to/2KcxpaI
SONY A9 QUICK START GUIDE FOR BIRD AND WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY: photoworkshopsandtours.com/ind...
NIKON D500 QUICK START GUIDE FOR BIRD AND WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY:
photoworkshopsandtours.com/ind...
NIKON D850 QUICK START GUIDE FOR BIRD AND WILDLIFE PHOTOGRAPHY : photoworkshopsandtours.com/ind...
BIRD PHOTOGRAPHY: A BEGINNER’S GUIDE TO MASTERING THE ART OF CAPTURING STUNNING IMAGES OF BIRDS: photoworkshopsandtours.com/ind...
Bird Photography Workshops: photoworkshopsandtours.com
DISCLAIMERS:
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All Sony A9 shots were taken before firmware version 5.0
do you think in the update they make a 500mm lens out of a 400mm ? The camera is good even without update, the only thing is the missing focal lenght!
Hi Mark, Thank you for pinning this info since that was a quick answer to the main question I had after watching this excellent video. You commented on the color. It will be interesting to hear what you think on a shoot with 5.0. Another question: once Sony releases their 500 and 600 which will you use? Both?
Oh, and Mark, do you already own the Sony 1.4 TC?
Wonderful moments Mark. Love your enthusiasm. Thanks for sharing.
Absolutely stunning and amazing images. You're highly talented and must have amazing timing skills. Wow!
My Dear Mark, I believe you are living your second life cause in your first one you were probably a bird. Amazing birds shots !
lol, thanks
Every time I watch one of your videos I want to go out and photograph😊. Truly inspiring!
Mark you are a legend. Thank you for giving all these informations and beautiful stories to us for free.
Thank you for watching!
Thank you, Mark. Love the way that the osprey, when he has a fish, flies with the head of the fish pointing in the same direction that he is flying!
Thank you!
D500 produced some absolutely brilliant images.
I’m a dedicated follower of your great bird photography. When you say “comon let’s go” I’m always excited and ready to follow you in a wonderful photographic journey.
Oh love this kind of work. Thank you for sharing this amazing 😍 photo story.
EPIC! One of your best videos ever! The shot of the Tilapia dropping its young is a one of a kind. Thanks for sharing!
That video was amazing. I’ve just started bird photography this weekend , went to an small Island with white beach, green tropical trees, but all my photos came out washed out. Thanks for these fantastic photos.
Overexposed. Learn to use histograms, then judgment through experience.
I’ve never left a comment on a KZhead video before, but this was ... BY FAR ... the most fun and interesting video I’ve ever watched. As a novice bird photographer, these shots were absolutely amazing and I loved the narration. Thank you very much for posting this!!
Thanks
As usual... great narration, great photo and a very enjoyable 16 minutes! Those head-on shots of the “skimmer” with the A9 were awesome. Keep up the great work.
Your best experience so far and also your best video. Your images are second to none, thanks so much for sharing this wonderful experience!!
Thank for sharing Mark. I watch every video and I swear this one gave me chills seeing your images. As a fellow Floridian, it's amazing what we have access to. I love my D500 too, just wish I had the big glass. Also, still dying to see a post-processing video to see how you give your raw files such an amazing natural look.
Amazing video as usual, you deserve much more views and subscribers !! Congratulations for the passion of photography.
Man, you not only making incredible pictures, but your presentation is just as good as your pictures, and you can tell you do all this by loving the whole process
Totally awesome photography Mark! Both cameras performed admirably in my opinion. Keep up the great work. Love your videos!
This is such a beautiful video! The photos you captured are amazing! I'm looking at upgrading from my Nikon P950 to a Nikon D500 with a 200-500mm lens! So exited!
The Sony A9 is a nice Full Frame Camera. The pictures from it were beautiful. Having said that, there was just something more appealing / magical about the D500 shots. l can't explain it, clarity, pop, I don't know what it was but I also liked the D500 better. This was one of the videos that helped me choose the D500. I have had it about two weeks now and I'm very happy so far.
I'm speechless, truly brilliant shots Mark and your comments...I'm always holding my breath!
thasnk
Wow, these pictures are absolutely amazing. Fantastic work!
Wow man, great shots! Great review, narration and video, too!
Mark, simply amazing photography coupled with excellent commentary too! The variety of birds and their actions is simply great. Well done.
I am soooooooo happy I have come across your videos. Just lately I bought a 27” Dell 4K UHD computer monitor which I am using for my TV. Your video comes through so “Pure and Precise”. I have subscribed to your channel.
Excellent work Mark, the shots, the video, and the narration, bravo! Especially like the tilapia releasing its babies in one shot and you noting the later osprey keeping its catch’s mouth closed. Great story telling! Looking forward to seeing more of the sandhill colts as they mature. And thanks again for the great morning a few weeks ago. You and Torin were wonderful to hang out with.
Thanks so much! Was a wild week of shooting.
Mark - this is the first time I've come across your channel, but I wanted to say that I enjoyed this video so much! Your enthusiasm and story telling made this comparo vid really fun to watch! Cheers!
Getting back into photography, specifically wildlife and upgrading to a D500. Mark loves what he does and it shows. Great information keep up the fantastic shots
Wow, these are amazing photos. Thank you for creating these awesome videos and sharing these experiences. I can't see myself ever getting an opportunity to see these things in person, so I am living vicariously through your videos and awesome narration lol. Can't wait to see how the a9 works out for you post update, especially the animal eye one later in the year.
Amazing work my friend! Could you do a video on the z6 and a7iii
Amazing. I’ve commented this before, and I’ve seen others say the same thing... this is by far my favorite photography channel. Where others talk about camera specs in a clinical way, you put everything into context with an interesting story and fantastic images. Simply great. My r old girl and I watch your videos, and she enjoys them too. Thanks!
That is great to hear. Thanks.
Great video Mark - absolutely amazing photos.
Dude, I love your videos. Just caught myself watching like 20 of them in a row. Love the picture too. They are absolutely freaking awesome.
Thanks so much!
Wow just Amazing Mark , I have a D500 . I know you are using a 500mm lens . I have a 200 500mm lens, what focusing point do you use. Thanks
Mark, that was an exceptional video. Thanks for sharing. Excellent narration, felt like I was there with you.
Love my D500!!!
Once again, a great video. I too, am very happy with my D500 and the NIKKOR 200-500 mm 5.6. You are my favorite KZhead channel, keep up the good work.
Another great video! I purchased the D500 after watching your videos and I have not been disappointed. Because I live in Florida, I have become more of a wildlife photographer. I hope to take one of your workshops next spring. Absolutely love the crane shots!
Amazing shots, all of them. I really liked the end shots of the Sandhill Cranes walking away -- you really get a feel for the dinosaur lineage with those three toed feet.
I'm just blown away by your images every time! Just awesome dressed in awesomeness.
Another amazing episode, as usual. I was so fortunate to shoot with and learn from you last month. Look forward to joining your workshop again in the future. Li
Thank you so much for this amazing review and awesome video! It is by far the best I've seen! Your photos were breathtaking! Keep shooting!
Dear sir, what a fantastic video! I absolutely love your enthusiasm and passion for the birdies. So many stunning images! Great stuff!!!
Excellent photos and videos as always, keep up the good work!
Those were absolutely stunning shots! I live off of the South River in Maryland and the local ospreys and bald eagles have started nesting. Really enjoying my D500 and 200-500mm f5.6 lens. Can't imagine a better combination for the money.
Mark, I've been following you for a while. Your passion for birds is amazing and your results are over the top. The D500 pics had definitely more detail but all photos were rich in tone and depth. Keep up your great work would love to shoot with you one day.
Thanks!
I agree with your last comment, the images from the D500 were very impactful. The extra reach and Nikons color rendering really gave them that extra punch. Great images all Stay safe.
Thanks once again. I always feel that I have accompanied you on these exciting trips, and I have your experience and examples to thank for the fabulous D500/200-500 combo I bought last year. Still amazed by the ability of this gear if used properly, and for advice and tips I turn to Mark Smith !
Outstanding review with incredibly beautiful bird photos. Thanks!
Wow..those are really amazing shots you got there!!
Wow..... awesome photos Mark, and a great video about your story of capturing these photos!
Thanks
Best bird photography I've ever seen! And I have to say it again: I like your narating style. Thanks for sharing your pictures and amazing moments with us!
thanks
UNBELIEVABLE! I love this! You've really got your skills down, Mark.
Just the best bunch of shots imaginable. Thanks as always for sharing the magic, Mark.
You left my mouth open up to the end!! You are my BPOTY for 2021 no matter if this is a 2 yrs old vid.
Amazing shots and presentation Mark. The shots from both cameras are amazing, but no camera body can make up for quality glass and reach. That is why I still use my Nikkor 600mm F4. Keep up the great work!
Wish I were there. What a video. You know what a Sony 500 mm G will cost. After I saw you in February, I had great results from the D500 and my 200-500 Nikon. Just the birds were not cooperating (if you remember) . For the price nothing comes close to the D500 and 200-500mm, Have several pro friends using A9 exclusively. Most sold all of their Canon equipment.
Arguably I'd say the A7III coupled with a Sigma 150-600c rivals the D500 for the cost. The main reason being you can pull results in low light, a full stop and a half even cropped in some 30%. Considering the Sigma 150-600c is Canon fit and lacking a bit of light stop over the Nikon 200-500mm and 500mm f4, its an awesome combination. I got a test to do on the A7III in shutter speed priority mode as thats what my friends on the D500 shoot on these days. I haven't used that mode for a while since starting out. It can be a way on manipulating exposure compensation without ISO loss. A7III retains low light well so can't wait to see the results.
Awesome images - thank you for sharing and giving a comparison of the two cameras at the same time. I would like just to be there watching the birds.
Stunning video Mark. Good job! I really enjoyed it.
Hey Mark, really enjoyed this video having shot both camera's myself. With the D500 I used a 80-400G Nikon, and the 600mm f4 vr. And loved the results. But decided to change systems last April. I choose the Sigma 150-600 EF mount contemporary mounted on an MC-11 adapter which has worked pretty well for me with Snowy owls up here in both RI and MA. Thanks for the time and work you put into this video.
Every time I watch one of your videos I think it's even better than the last and surely it can't be beat...? Guess what? You did it again. Awesome photography Mark. Best wishes from South East England...
Your narrative is excellent. The comparison between Nikon and Sony is very very interesting thank you again for sharing such great moments in capturing our wild America!
Love your videos and reviews....keep up the great work!
Such a great video, again! I luv all the pictures.... so amazing. 👏😍👏
Thank you for all the nice photos of wonderful world of birds. It's really much appreciated, especially at this time of this awful coronavirus. Keep up the nice work!
awesome series Mark. Thanks for sharing. Happy New Year and happy shooting.
Awesome job man. Other KZheadrs should learn from you. I am very impressed. Again outstanding work.
that shot of the 3 at the end of the sandhill babies, omg its just too cute!
I agree. It melts my heart a little.
Thank you Mark for the review! Osprey are definitely one of my all-time favourite birds! You were able to capture so many action shots that I simply could not do with my Nikon D7200!
you are wrong, its not just the body ...you need lens too with experience n patient too... don't mind its only my opinion which i know
Another great video Mark I’m sticking with my D500 love it to bits
Beautiful!!!! Simply beautiful!!!!! I enjoyed this vid immensely! Thank you so much!!!
Everytime I watch one of your videos I think this cant get more awesome I am even more wow'd with this. excellent!!!
I agree he is my favorite bird photographer her in youtube.
I love your work man, I'm designing a roost for Osprey in Western Nebraska and using your shots as some inspiration
Brilliant Video again Mark, the Photos are just absolutely great. 👍🏻
Thanks!
Amazing photographs, Beautiful and inspiring. Big Thank You.
Simply amazing captures !! Thanks for sharing.
The way you describe a photograph is outstanding.
Mark, another awesome series of bird photos. I love my D500 with 300 f4 pf and 200-500. That A9 is a real nice camera, too. I need to find more opportunities fot birding around here in NC. Thanks. You are a top- notch birder.
The awesome photo I love it's you did amazing work and a lot of patients to catching on the actions
Wow! Truly awesome photography!
Absolute top review.Best I saw for long time.Not only from technical side,your photos is true art!
Thanks
Color has been improved with the new firmware - noticeable improvement.
Ellis Collins is it your experience? I haven't noticed yet
Not caught up even yet.
Some absolutely fantastic shots Mark, great going! 📷
I love your pics with a story, makes super interesting to watch with the kids, helps them to understand nature also .
Great work Mark. Always look forward to your videos coming out.
Thanks
That last shot was simply breath-taking!
Thank you and I agree!
See, Junior, this is a runway...
Amazing work and your knowledge of the birds and fish makes watching the video even more enjoyable. I would be interested to hear your thoughts on the A9 speed and colour after the firmware update.
Love the mouthbrooder shots, amazing details with the baby fish. You have some amazing luck.
Stunning pictures. Well done and thank you.
That Osprey set near the end is amazing!
Totally awesome. So informative. Thank You for sharing..
Your comment about the ability of photographs to share amazing moments is something that I experience and share with others all the time. My most recent favorite was a dolphin’s tail just before it went underwater. It is a perfect waterfall designed by nature capturing color from the setting sun. It was the first time that I was able to get that close and detailed by using a 1.4 extender on my Canon 100-400 zoom lens. You have challenged me to test the limits of my gear and my ability. You can’t ask for any more than that. Thank you very much!
Your photography is stunning!!! And wow, do we ever get to see some gorgeous creatures!!!! in some awesome detail!! a bonus is your super narration, informative and entertaining!!!
Thanks Mark for such outstanding photography and detailed comparison. I am all the more elated to see the D500 performed so well because I am also a D500 user with a Nikkor 200-500mm.
Hello Emit. I purchased the 500 5.6 because of the weight difference. The price was difficult to get by but I am very pleased with the purchase. The zooms in that range were at least 1-2 pounds heavier and I want to be able to walk around without a tripod. I did seriously consider that 200-500.
@@deluco Though its 5.6, it achieves good blurring due to long focal length. Moreover if u combine it with a mirrorless then high iso will allow u to shoot in low light.
Beautiful shots, Mark! Get up here to Michigan and come shoot sometime.
Wow stunning images Mark! I think both cameras are doing a great job - in this case it seems to come more down to the lens. Good storytelling & you really held my attention for the entire video. Great job!
I really appreciate you describing beautiful creature of birds
Truly humbled..........your shots are stunning and amazing....
The skimmers coming straight at you shots are awesome and on my bucket list!! I shoot a D500 with the Sigma 150-600 mm sport. Time to plan an Atlantic coast trip.
Great video. I photograph osprey over in Naples, FL but don't that many.
Thank you for sharing your amazing shots! ... Osprey pix are stunning ... :c)
Looove all of that, happy for your photo shoot , my dream week!