Camera Lenses
Apr 27, 2023

The Best Lenses For Wildlife Photography

The top 3 recommended telephoto zoom lenses for wildlife photography are: Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM, Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED, and Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS.

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The Best Lenses For Wildlife Photography

What to consider when buying:

- Focal length: the longer the focal length, the closer you can get to the subject without disturbing it.
- Aperture: a larger aperture (smaller f-number) allows more light in, making it easier to shoot in low-light conditions and creating a shallow depth of field.
- Image stabilization: it helps to minimize camera shake and produce sharper images.
- Lens construction: higher-quality glass and coatings can prevent flare, ghosting, and distortion.
- Compatibility with your camera: make sure the lens is compatible with your camera brand and model.

Winner: Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens USA - Walmart.com ...

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- Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (635 ratings on Amazon)
- Price: $2,199.00
- Specs: 100-400mm focal length, f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture, 21 elements in 16 groups, 0.98m/3.22ft minimum focusing distance, 77mm filter size, image stabilization, weather-sealed construction
- Recommended for: professional and serious amateur wildlife photographers who need a versatile, high-quality telephoto zoom lens with excellent image quality and fast autofocus.

Runner-up: Nikon AF-S FX NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED

AF-S NIKKOR 300mm f/4E PF ED VR Single Focal Length FX Auto Focus ...

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- Rating: 4.8 out of 5 stars (97 ratings on Amazon)
- Price: $1,999.95
- Specs: 300mm focal length, f/4 maximum aperture, 16 elements in 10 groups, 1.4m/4.6ft minimum focusing distance, 77mm filter size, image stabilization, lightweight design
- Recommended for: Nikon users who prefer a prime lens with a longer reach and compact, portable design.

Also great: Sony FE 100-400mm F4.5–5.6 GM OSS

Sony FE 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 GM OSS Lens Announced, Priced $2,499 ...

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- Rating: 4.9 out of 5 stars (47 ratings on BH Photo)
- Price: $2,499.99
- Specs: 100-400mm focal length, f/4.5-5.6 maximum aperture, 22 elements in 16 groups, 0.98m/3.22ft minimum focusing distance, 77mm filter size, image stabilization, weather-sealed construction, fast autofocus
- Recommended for: Sony users who want a high-performance telephoto zoom lens with excellent sharpness, contrast, and color rendition.