Originally posted by Robin Greetings fellow Pentaxians! I thought I'd use this thread to inspire some healthy debate.
I photograph birds quite often, not for framed wall mounts, but mostly so I can identify them more easily. I have a F*300mm which is light, has exceptional IQ, and is fast... light wise but not in the AF department! I also have a DFA 150-450mm which has better than average IQ and fairly speedy AF, but trying to hold it steady by hand or follow a moving target is challenging.
I've looked longingly at the DA*300mm, but some reviews say the AF isn't fast enough for birds. Is it worth getting one, or do I hold out for the promised upgraded DA*300mm?
Even a skinny monopod is a significant aid to getting good results with a big, long, heavy tele such as the 150~450mm. However, monopods are a little awkward to carry and can be awkward to adjust quickly especially if a bird is high up. I have a traditional gunstock that is much quicker to use that a monopod and easier to transport. I installed a Manrotto shutter trigger designed for their pistol-grip tripod head so _ could hold the gunstock with both hands instead of having my right hand up on the camera to release the shutter. More recently I got a support that drapes over top the shoulder and also has a pad that rests against your chest. It is by far the best brace for a big tele if you are walking about rather that sitting in one place (in which case use a tripod). Here is one that is very similar and it only costs $60 from B&H
ikan Recoil Reloaded Camera Stabilizer
BTW: I modified mine in the following ways: 1) the several pieces fit together with 1/4 X 20 thumb tightened screws in the manner of old tripod heads holding a camera or lens. These joints tended to rotate so I drilled a hole in one side, threaded it, screwed in an old video pin with glue on it, then drilled an appropriate hole in the opposite piece so there is no chance of unwanted rotation but the pieces can still be disassembled. 2) the original had a simple padded grip which I replaced with a trigger grip to which any kind of electronic shutter cable may be attached
Vello CB-800 Universal Pistol Grip with Shutter Release
I also modified the point where this grip attaches so it would not rotate. So now I can hold the rig out under the lens with my right hand rather than back at the camera which is much more stable.
BTW: Both of these are plastic except for the screws and the sockets into which they thread, so drilling holes to install anti-twist pins is very easy.