So I finally bit the bullet and picked up a Canon R10 after saving for like six months. Love the camera, but the kit lens is killing me when I try to get shots of birds at the local park. I live in a pretty wooded area in Oregon and these squirrels and jays are just way too fast and way too far away for my current setup.
I have been doing way too much research lately and my head is spinning. I keep seeing people recommend the RF 100-400mm lens, and yeah, I know it has the reach, but I really want that prime lens look with the better bokeh and sharpness if possible. I also looked into adapting some older EF glass, like the 400mm f/5.6, but then people say the autofocus performance on the R10 with an adapter can be hit or miss and I dont want to deal with that frustration while trying to catch a moving subject.
Here is what I am working with:
- Budget is strictly under 600 bucks, maybe 700 if I find a really good deal used.
- Need something that can handle wildlife, so autofocus speed is honestly my top priority.
- Lightweight would be awesome because I like to hike a few miles into the woods with my gear.
- Weather sealing would be a huge plus since it rains here constantly, though I know that might be pushing it for the price.
Is there anything out there that actually fits this or am I just being unrealistic expecting a prime lens for wildlife on this budget? Should I just give up on the prime idea and save up for the 100-400 or is there some hidden gem I am missing? Really just want something that makes my shots look less like blurry blobs and more like actual photos...
^ This. Also, honestly, I tried the adapter route with a used Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM last winter and while the glass is legendary, the R10 just didnt love it as much as the newer RF stuff. You might want to consider how much the weight adds up once you slap that bulky mount adapter on. If you really crave that prime look, just be careful about the minimum focus distance on those older lenses. Youll be stuck standing super far back, which is a nightmare in dense woods. I ended up grabbing the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM eventually and realized the image stabilization helps way more than a wider aperture ever did for handheld shots. Just make sure to crank your shutter speed high since it is a darker lens.
Honestly, skip the primes. Get the Canon RF 100-400mm f/5.6-8 IS USM. It is super light for hiking and the AF is blazing fast on the R10. Trust me.
Honestly, if you are stuck on the prime look, have you considered just how close you can get to those birds? If you aren't within 10-15 feet, a prime is gonna be a headache. Have you looked into the Canon RF 800mm f/11 IS STM? It is super sharp, fits your budget used, and honestly, the reach is insane for woodland wildlife. Are you okay with shooting only when it is bright out though?
