Review of the 600 and 800mm Canon RF Lenses For Wildlife Photography
Embarking on a wildlife photography adventure is a thrilling experience, and having the right gear can truly elevate your photography game.
Recently, Pangolin Photo Host Sabine had the opportunity to put Canon’s RF600mm and RF800mm f/11 super telephoto lenses to the test during a safari expedition in the mesmerising Chobe National Park, Botswana.
In this detailed blog post, Sabine will delve into the design, features, image quality, autofocus performance, and overall impressions of these lenses, providing comprehensive insights for wildlife photography enthusiasts.
Watch Sabine’s review of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm f/11 lenses
Read Sabine’s review of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm f/11 lenses
Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses offer unmatched versatility and precision while maintaining a lightweight design.
Design and Features
The Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses are designed to be game-changers in the world of wildlife photography. With Canon’s RF mount for mirrorless cameras, these lenses combine cutting-edge technology with a compact and lightweight design.
Weighing only 930 grams and just over one kilogram, respectively, the RF600mm and RF800mm lenses offer unparalleled convenience for handheld shooting, allowing photographers to roam freely and capture majestic wildlife moments with ease.
Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses capture the intricate details of a crocodile with a dragonfly.
Image Quality and Sharpness
Despite the fixed aperture of f/11, the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses deliver exceptional image quality and sharpness.
Equipped with advanced features such as diffractive optics to minimise chromatic aberrations and optical image stabilisation for steady handheld shots, these lenses excel at capturing intricate details and producing vibrant, high-resolution images. Even with the limitations of a narrow aperture, the RF lenses boast impressive background blur and bokeh, creating visually appealing compositions in wildlife photography.
Demonstrating the accurate autofocus capabilities of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses while capturing wildlife along the Chobe River.
Autofocus and Performance
One of the key concerns with f/11 lenses is their performance in autofocus and challenging lighting conditions. However, the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses prove to be reliable and efficient, especially when paired with Canon’s R series mirrorless cameras.
The autofocus system performs admirably, providing quick and accurate focusing even in low-light settings. Additionally, the combination of in-body and optical image stabilisation enables photographers to achieve sharp images at slower shutter speeds, enhancing the overall performance of these lenses in dynamic wildlife scenarios.
The Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses are reliable companions for wildlife enthusiasts.
Field Test and Real-World Experience
During my time testing the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses in the diverse landscapes of Chobe National Park, I was thoroughly impressed by the versatility and capabilities of these lenses.
From capturing the graceful movements of African wildlife to photographing intricate details in their natural habitats, the RF lenses proved to be reliable companions for wildlife enthusiasts. The lightweight design of the lenses allowed for effortless handheld shooting, while the impressive image quality ensured that every shot captured the essence of the wild with stunning clarity.
Considering Canon’s RF600mm and RF800mm lenses is definitely a wise decision.
Conclusion and Recommendations
In conclusion, the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses offer a compelling option for wildlife photographers looking to expand their creative horizons without compromising on quality.
While they may not match the performance of higher-end lenses with wider apertures, these RF lenses provide a cost-effective and accessible entry point into the world of wildlife photography. Whether you opt for the RF600mm for its versatility or the RF800mm for extended reach, both lenses offer a solid foundation for capturing captivating wildlife imagery.
Through my exploration of the Canon RF600mm and RF800mm lenses in the wilderness of Chobe National Park, I have gained a deeper appreciation for the art of wildlife photography and the role that quality equipment plays in capturing unforgettable moments in nature.
If you’re considering venturing into the realm of wildlife photography or seeking a lightweight and affordable telephoto lens for your adventures, the Canon RF lenses are certainly worth considering. Remember, the wild awaits; seize the opportunity to capture its beauty through the lens of your camera.
