Testing the Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Filter

In an effort to reduce the minimum focus distance (MFD) of my 400mm lens (3.5 meter) I ordered a Canon 500D 77mm close-up lens filter. This is mainly to eliminate the carrying of a second body with macro lens when out in the field with the long lens (for Birds in Flight). The 400mm works well for close-up work from a distance, but I wanted a closer focusing option (with more magnification).

Canon 10-400mm Lens with Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Filter >>

Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Filter Challenges
With the close-up lens filter the MFD is now an effective 40 - 50mm (compared to 3.5 meter) - which brings some challenges (specific to the 400mm non-IS lens):

• Narrow depth of field (require smaller apertures to counter this)
• Best useful f/stops are now f/22 - f/32
• Requires good light or flash
• With no IS extra stability is required (tripod) / or faster shutter speed

What I like so far:

• Autofocus works well in good light
• Manual focus with flash works well on tripod
• Satisfied with the extreme close-up image quality
• Quality of the bokeh (blurred out of focus areas)

This specific combination (crop with 400mm lens) should work beter on a full frame body (as it is minus the 1.6 crop factor) with a 70-300mm lens (as recommended by Canon). There is no point in using the Canon 500D close-up lens filter on the EOS 6D / 400mm lens as I want to be able to use it in the field (Canon EOS 7D Mark II) without removing any lenses. But, I will test it later with my Canon EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens on APS-C (EOS 70D) and Full Frame (Canon EOS 6D).

First three images: Handheld, outside in good light and AF with manual exposure settings as I would capture Birds in Flight - ISO during the outside light testing was limited to ISO 1600.

Last image: On tripod with Speedlite 430 EX II (bounced) flash: ISO 400 (Av Mode).

All images are uncropped and processed in Lightroom 6 with some exposure, contrast and a few other adjustments.

Body / Lens used: Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.5L USM Lens f/32 / ISO 400 - 1600 1/250 - 1/5000s.

Location: Milnerton, Cape Town

What is an Extension Tube in Photography?

"An extension tube is a device used in photography to enable a camera lens to focus closer than its normal minimum focusing distance. It is a hollow tube that fits between the camera body and the lens, effectively increasing the distance between the lens and the camera's image sensor. This extension allows for closer focusing on the subject, making it appear larger in the frame.

Extension tubes come in various lengths, and they are typically used in macro photography or other situations where getting closer to the subject is essential. They don't contain any optical elements like lenses, so they don't affect the image quality in terms of optical aberrations or distortions. Instead, they alter the focusing range of the lens.

When using extension tubes, there are a few things to keep in mind:

Loss of Light: Since the extension tube increases the distance between the lens and the camera sensor, it reduces the amount of light reaching the sensor. This may require adjusting your exposure settings accordingly.

Autofocus Limitations: Some extension tubes may limit or disable autofocus functionality, depending on the camera and lens combination. Manual focusing is often used in macro photography, but it's something to be aware of.

Depth of Field: As you get closer to the subject, the depth of field becomes very shallow. It's important to carefully control your aperture to achieve the desired focus.

Increased Magnification: The primary purpose of extension tubes is to increase magnification. However, using longer tubes or stacking multiple tubes may result in a very narrow depth of field.

Extension tubes are a cost-effective way to experiment with macro photography without investing in dedicated macro lenses. They can be used with a variety of lenses, but the level of magnification and working distance will depend on the specific lens and tube combination." (Source: ChatGPT 2023)

Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens - Bee on Flower f/32 / ISO 3200

Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens - Daisy flower  (Handheld) f/32 / ISO 1600

Small Daisy Flower (Handheld) f/32 / ISO 1600

Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens - Tiny Grass Flower (Handheld) f/32  / ISO 1600

Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Pincushion Flower  f/32 / ISO 400 (Speedlite / Tripod)

Objective of a Close-Up Lens Filter

A close-up lens filter, also known as a macro filter, is designed to allow a standard camera lens to focus on objects at a much closer distance than normal. This is particularly useful for capturing small subjects like flowers, insects, or intricate details in objects, without the need for a dedicated macro lens.

Here are the primary objectives of a close-up lens filter:

1. Magnification: The filter increases the subject's size in the frame, providing a magnified view of small objects.

2. Close Focusing: It allows the camera to focus on subjects at a shorter distance than the lens's usual minimum focusing distance, making it easier to capture sharp details up close.

3. Cost-Effective: Compared to dedicated macro lenses, close-up filters are more affordable and can offer similar functionality, though with some limitations in terms of image quality.

4. Portability: These filters are lightweight and easy to attach, making them a convenient option for photographers who want to do macro work without carrying additional lenses.

They come in different strengths (often indicated by a diopter value, such as +1, +2, +4, etc.), with higher values offering greater magnification." (Source: ChatGPT)

More about the Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Filter

"The Canon 500D 77mm Close-Up Lens Filter is a handy accessory for macro photography. It attaches to the front of your lens, allowing you to focus at much closer distances and achieve higher magnification of your subjects. 

This filter is particularly useful for lenses with focal lengths between 70mm and 300mm 1 2.

Here are some key points about the Canon 500D Close-Up Lens Filter:

1. Double-Element Design: It features a double-element achromatic design, which helps maintain optical performance and reduce chromatic aberrations 3.
   
   
2. Versatility: Ideal for photographers who want macro capabilities without carrying a dedicated macro lens. It’s perfect for occasional macro shots 1.
   
   
3. Compatibility: Works well with various lenses, especially in the 70-300mm range12.
   
   
4. Challenges: It can result in a narrow depth of field, requiring smaller apertures and good lighting conditions 2." (Source: Microsoft Copilot)

Canon Photography Training Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch | Intaka Island Cape Town

Photographer vs Camera

Photographer versus Camera: Awareness, Reasoning and Resources

"We do not make photographs with our cameras. We make them with our minds, with our hearts, with our ideas." — Arnold Newman

"The camera is an instrument that teaches people how to see without a camera." — Dorothea Lange

Photographer versus Camera

"Photographer Versus Camera" could be interpreted as a thought-provoking concept, highlighting the tension or synergy between the artist (the photographer) and their tool (the camera). This tension exists at the intersection of skill, intent, and technology—where the photographer brings creativity, perspective, and emotion, while the camera is the objective instrument capable of capturing these intentions in various ways.

Here's a breakdown of what "Photographer versus Camera" might explore:

1. Creativity vs. Mechanism
   The photographer’s imagination is boundless, whereas the camera's capacity is constrained by its specifications. This dynamic creates a push-and-pull: the photographer envisions an image, and the camera translates it within the boundaries of what it can technically achieve. Some photographers feel that limitations push them to be more creative, while others strive to bend those boundaries with high-end gear or customizations.

2. Skill vs. Automation
   Cameras today are equipped with sophisticated automation—autofocus, white balance, and even AI enhancements. Some purist photographers might argue that over-relying on automation undermines the essence of photography, as it’s the photographer’s skill and intuition that should lead. Others see these tools as liberating, allowing them to focus more on composition and creativity.

3. Emotion vs. Objectivity
   While a photographer may approach a scene with a specific feeling or mood, a camera objectively captures the light, color, and movement. There’s an art in making a lifeless tool communicate emotion, which often requires a deep understanding of the camera’s settings, the environment, and how to manipulate both to create images that resonate with viewers.

4. Human Vision vs. Digital Representation
   The way humans perceive light, color, and shadow differs from how a camera sensor records it. There’s a struggle to balance these views and sometimes a creative effort to either make the final image as true-to-life as possible or take advantage of these differences to create something entirely new.

5. Personal Growth vs. Tech Dependency
   Many photographers emphasize developing their own style and storytelling ability rather than relying on camera quality. This part of the "versus" relationship reflects the journey of personal growth in photography—learning that the camera is a tool but that it’s the photographer’s vision and commitment to improvement that truly brings images to life." (Source: ChatGPT 2024) 

Does a Better Camera Make you a Better Photographer? John Mak Photography

Equipment Versus Photographer - Which Matters More? Digital Photography School

Is it the Camera or The photographer? Anna Kireeva Photography

Is It the Camera or the Photographer? Sometimes It’s Both Shutterbug

It’s Not The Camera, It’s The Photographer SLR Lounge

The Camera Doesn't Matter N.Lalor Photography

The Photographer vs. The Camera: Unleashing the Power of Creativity Eyes2Me Photography

The Theory of Photography Vernon Chalmers Photography

This Camera Makes Me a Better Photographer Fstoppers

© Symbol Image: Copyright Free from Pixabay

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Map | Directions

Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Location Map (Opposite Woodbridge Island)

Woodbridge Island Milnerton Cape Town Google Map and Directions

Vernon Chalmers Photography Address
1204 Arnhem
6 Loxton Road

Milnerton, Cape Town

Vernon Chalmers Direct Contact

Canon EOS Camera Training / Photography Workshops Cape Town, Cape Peninsula 

Please Contact Me for discussing specific Canon EOS Camera / Photography learning requirements. I am available to travel to specific locations for one-day and longer workshops.

Learn Canon Photography from the comfort of your own Home / Garden More Information

Bird / Flower Photography Training Kirstenbosch National Botanical Garden Kirstenbosch Photography

For general workshop information view / visit Photography Workshops Cape Town

Sandwich Tern  :  Milnerton Lagoon / Woodbridge Island

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town

Another Gorgeous Light Photography Morning at Spier

 Private Canon Photography - Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Southern Bishop Female : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

As discussed last week, I was itching to go back to the tranquillity of the Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, and Tuesday (15/10) returned with two main objectives (1) for another private client to practice different apertures / (f/stops) on the various flowers and (2) for me to go looking for the African fish eagle.

With the good light my client easily got into her rhythm learning apertures with a Canon 50mm f/1.8 prime lens – practising the full aperture range (with Depth of Field, backgrounds and different distances), the main learning criteria.

Within distance of my client I went searching for the fish eagle, nothing, not a single bird in the vivid blue sky apart from a miserable-looking high-flying pied crow.

I took the short hike around the dam to ‘at least have something on my memory card’ going back to Cape Town. The light was amazing (maybe a tad over-exposed for mid-morning predominantly white birds), but it felt great to have the familiar feeling of the Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L lens in my hands.

My client was happy with her aperture practice, but I have another excuse to soon return to Spier for the elusive fish eagle (and other birds in flight).

Lunch at the Spier restaurant (under the trees) was, as expected, great with a few swee waxbills hopping around in the grass and a very brave Cape sparrow in search of a few crumbs between the tables.

Vernon Chalmers Photography at Spier

"Vernon Chalmers frequently photographs the Spier Wine Estate, a scenic location in the Stellenbosch region of South Africa. Spier, known for its historic Cape Dutch architecture and extensive natural beauty, serves as an inspiring backdrop for photographers. Chalmers captures the estate’s landscapes, birdlife, and unique features, (with different cameras) combining technical skill with an artistic perspective. His work often emphasizes natural lighting, framing, and the serene essence of Spier, which reflects a harmony between nature and human craft." (ChatGPT 2024)

Camera / Lens for Spier Wine Farm Bird Photography

• Canon EOS 7D Mark II (APS-C)
• Canon EF 400 f/5.6L USM lens

Exposure / Focus Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/5.6 - f/6.1) 
• Auto-ISO (100 - 200)
• Shutter Speeds (various)
• No Image Stabilisation
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing

Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments /  RAW to JPEG conversion

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | IP Policy

Vernon Chalmers Bird Photography at Spier, Stellenbosch

Greater Striped Swallow : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

African Sacred Ibis : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

African Spoonbill : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Vernon Chalmers Flower Photography at Spier, Stellenbosch

Red Hot Poker Flower : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch 

Wild Flower : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Photography Training Session at Spier Wine Farm >>

Photography Training Disclaimer: The occasional Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Sessions at the Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch is a private arrangement between Vernon Chalmers and one developing photographer (at a time) who wants to conduct some form of individual photographic practical at this specific venue. It is not any way a photography workshop, organised photoshoot and / or a setup of various photographic equipment, but the natural flow of how an individual nature photographer will respectfully capture images while walking around an idyllic location (with his / her camera) capturing images of wild birds, flowers and general nature scenery.

Greater Striped Swallow at Different Angle, Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch | Gift Vouchers

Low flying grey heron in foggy conditions, Woodbridge Island

Bird in Flight : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6 USM Lens

Grey Heron in Flight : Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm, Woodbridge Island

This image was created with my 10-year old Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6 lens pairing (year of lens release: 1993). 500 000 actuations on the body is a conservative estimation – never been serviced with one sensor clean probably 6 years ago.
Canon EOS 7D Mark II Long-Term Use and Experience

The at-distance image is no big achievement, but a significant part of my decision-making that there is no real compelling reason for migrating to a comparative mirrorless option (yet). I am fortunate to often work with a wide range of photographers and seen / worked with almost the full range of Canon EOS R mirrorless bodies.

Some of Canon EOS R these bodies are at the pinnacle of its respective functional and optical engineering capabilities, which I appreciate and respect, but for the premium I find it difficult to justify the cost vs. value proposition (for me).

2025 may be a promising year for an eventual upgrade for my Birds in Flight workhorse, but until then I am more than content with my current pairing for all my Birds in Flight photography around the Cape Peninsula.
Canon EOS R Cameras to be Released 2024 - 2025

Just for context: I use quite a few different camera / lens pairings for various genres, so the decision to ‘upgrade’ and the fact the I shoot in generally good light during the day / and tripod at night, I simply just enjoy the older technology for its creations and durability.

Grey heron image at Woodbridge Island, Cape Town. Exposure / Focus Settings

• Manual Mode
• Aperture (f/5.6) 
• Auto-ISO (640)
• Shutter Speeds (1/3200s)
• No Image Stabilisation
• Handheld

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Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch | Gift Vouchers

Photography Training Session at Spier Wine Farm

 Private Canon Photography - Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch, Cape Town

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

While everybody was frantically driving opposite me on the N2 to get to work on Monday morning I had the opportunity to facilitate an one-on-one private photography training session at Spier Wine Estate, Stellenbosch. I've been there on a few occasions over the years as a student and with friends, but never from an exclusive photographic perspective. View Spier Wine Farm Google Map / Directions below.

The objective of the individual private photography session was not landscape photography, but general (Canon EOS R mirrorless theory) and wildlife photography exposure and autofocus skills development with the Canon EOS R6 paired with a variety of Canon EF lenses (And the EF to RF Adapter).

It was a beautiful blue and crisp morning at Spier Wine Farm within it's tranquil and laid-back 'out-of season' environment - perfect for someone to get to grips with the modern and high-tech Canon EOS R6 camera.  We were seated on our own under the water-side veranda, away from a few early-morning (American) wine-tasters. Nothing was rushed and for me it was one of the most perfect locations for impromptu outdoor photography and / or photography training.

The day did not belong to me and I had to deliberately, at first, seat myself away from the beautiful scenery to focus exclusively on my client's training objectives and personal photography needs. 

Not to impede on my new client's time I took a few landscape snapshots during our break. A bit rushed, but I think those of you that's been to Spier (close to Stellenbosch) will agree with my description of the relaxed Spier Wine Farm location. It is indeed possible to walk around the dam. To the right of the dam (out of sight on all images here) is a protea flower garden.

African Fish Eagle and African Harrier Hawk at Spier
My client informed me that she has photographed an African fish eagle and African harrier hawk at Spier in the past. I'm planning a private trip within the next two weeks to spend a morning with the birds and the protea garden - and perhaps just taste some of Spier's exquisite wines.   

To my surprise there were quite a few Birds in Flight and I was itching to grab my Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm lens from my vehicle +- 300 meters away. I've spotted quite a few bird species who will make it worth the trip to go there just for them.

Some of the birds flying over the water / or perched during our private photography training session at Spier Wine Farm:

• African ibis in flight
• African spoonbill in flight
• Pied kingfisher in flight
• Purple heron in flight
• Raptor in flight (too high to ID)
• Southern masked weaver perched
• White-breasted cormorant perched
• White-throated swallows perched and in flight
• Many small birds perched and in flight
• Yellow-billed duck / and others in the water

Camera / Lens for Spier Wine Farm Landscape Photography

• Canon EOS 6D (Full-Frame)
• Canon EF 24-70mm f/4L IS USM lens

Exposure / Focus Settings

• Autofocus On
• Aperture Priority (Av) Mode
• Apertures (f/11) 
• Auto-ISO (100)
• Shutter Speeds (various)
• Image Stabilisation On
• Handheld

Image Post-Processing

Lightroom Classic (Ver 13.5) - minor adjustments /  RAW to JPEG conversion

Vernon Chalmers Photography Copyright | IP Policy

Vernon Chalmers Landscape Photography at Spier, Stellenbosch

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Landscape Phototherapy : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Landscape Photography : Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch

Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch Google Map / Directions

Another Gorgeous Light Photography Morning at Spier >>

Photography Training Disclaimer: The occasional Vernon Chalmers Photography Training Sessions at the Spier Wine Farm, Stellenbosch is a private arrangement between Vernon Chalmers and one developing photographer (at a time) who wants to conduct some form of individual photographic practical at this specific venue. It is not any way a photography workshop, organised photoshoot and / or a setup of various photographic equipment, but the natural flow of how an individual nature photographer will respectfully capture images while walking around an idyllic location (with his / her camera) capturing images of wild birds, flowers and general nature scenery.

African Art & Craft Market - Boulders Beach, Simon's Town

Bird Photography with Canon EOS 6D Mark II Woodbridge Island, Cape Town

Canon Photography Quick Walkabout Hout Bay Harbour, Cape Town

Kirstenbosch Garden Sculpture Photography Canon EOS 6D Mark II

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch | Gift Vouchers

Environmental Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography

Improvements for Canon EOS / EOS R Birds in Flight Photography

Cape Teal ducks at Woodbridge Island - Canon EOS 7D Mark II

Learning more about Birds in Flight Photography 

During my Birds in Flight Photography Training in Milnerton, Cape Town I generally start with a slideshow of a variety of in-flight images (with different Canon EOS bodies / EF prime / zoom lenses) for pointing out basic EXIF data, location and other relevant information.

Important Birds in Flight Photography Considerations
The introduction is followed with the highlighting of important individual considerations and settings. Outcomes will depend on current gear, skill level, shooting style and exposure settings:

• Gear (Body / Lens / Tele-converters)
• Shutter Choices (electronic vs. Mechanical) 
• Autofocus System
• Shooting Modes
• Fps / Buffer Speed / Memory Card Speeds
• Image Stablization (IS) (Body / Lens)
• Handheld vs Tripod / Monopod
Exposure Settings (Av, Tv, Manual, Other)
• RAW / cCraw vs JPG / HEIF (Buffer Speed / Post-Processing)

Reed Cormorant in Flight : Taking Advantage of Early Morning Light

Ensuring the best possible images

After spending a fair amount of time with various Canon EOS / EOS R Autofocus systems and techniques during training the Environmental Variables are discussed - this is generally a list of 10+ criteria for assisting the Birds in Flight photographer with the following overall workflow in mind:

• Expected outcomes
• Pre-planning
• During the shoot
• Post-processing
• Target Market / Medium

Many photographers are of opinion that only high-end enthusiast and professional Canon EOS / EOS R bodies and EF / RF lenses are good enough for capturing birds in flight images. During workshops / discussions and demonstrations the focus is on how to extract the maximum value out of most Canon EOS bodies and even the 'shorter' than 70-300mm lenses.

Environmental Variables for Birds in Flight Photography
Listed variables are based on my own shooting style and techniques at mainly Intaka Island and Woodbridge Island, Cape Town. Most images on the Vernon Chalmers Photography website where captured with the following Canon cameras / lenses during the past 10 years:

• Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens
• Canon EOS 7D Mark II / EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L USM lens
• Canon EOS 70D / EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens
• Canon EOS 70D / EF 100-400mm f/4.5-6.6L II lens
• Canon EOS 80D / EF 100-400mm f/4.5-6.6L II lens
• Canon EOS 6D / EF 70-300mm f/4-5.6L IS USM lens
• Canon EOS 6D / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens
• Canon EOS R6 / RF 600mm and RF 800mm f/11 IS STM lenses

Canon EOS 7D Mark II Birds In Flight Photo Gallery >>

Canon EOS R6 First Impressions and Sample Images >>

"Slow" Canon EOS 6D / EF 400mm f/5.6L USM Lens

Variables for Improved Birds in Flight Photography (Excluding Camera / Lens Settings)

The interpretation and application of the listed variables are not necessarily always going to provide for extraordinary results in every situation, but after more than ten years as a Birds in Flight photographer / trainer the following criteria are some of the most important factors / environmental variables (note: without specific reference to camera / lens settings) for ensuring great looking in-flight images:

• Light / Weather conditions: I stay opposite Woodbridge Island and have a substantial areal view of the weather conditions, wind speed and quality of available light. I will only go down to the island if the weather / light meet (my) specific requirements. Crisp and quality early morning (summer) light is essential when using a variable aperture lens / or shooting with a lens with a maximum aperture of f/5.6.
  
  
• Position of the sun: For ensuring the best possible exposure I go out early morning with the sun at my back for providing direct exposure on the birds. The quality of the available sun light is important - in some cases I don't mind the odd cloudiness - just for some softer diffusion in strong sun light. Early summer mornings is highly recommended.
  
  
• Distance: When photographers are new at birds in flight they tend to shoot at every bird flying at any distance and any height. With experience this will be dramatically reduced wrt distance from lens (for best / sharpest image quality). I only shoot within my mental geographical boundary lines ito specific Woodbridge Island (Diep River / Table Bay Nature Reserve) sub-locations.
  
  
• Bird Species knowledge: Getting to know the individual bird species and their behaviour (in a specific environment) can take a while. It took me more than a year to really understand and anticipate the movements of the various bird species at Woodbridge Island. On this website is a Woodbridge Island Bird Species Index to which I add every new species (not all in-flight) that I have personally encountered in / over the Milnerton Lagoon, Diep River and the Table Bay Nature Reserve.

One of the more challenging in-flight shots using AF / AI Servo

• Size and speed: For the developing photographer small and / or fast flying birds are extremely challenging to track and frame. This becomes easier with experience. Autofocus speed is not (always) the reason for not getting a well-framed image - inexperience in general camera handling, tracking and general speed anticipation is more likely to be the problem. Canon's modern Autofocus Systems will assist in various configurations for faster and smaller birds.
  
  
• Flight direction: The majority of the birds I capture around the Woodbridge Island area flies from left to right towards the morning sun and mostly close to the water. This is for ensuring better exposure, limiting the shadows under the wings and to provide for a slight glint in the facing eye. This is not to say I do not capture birds flying away from the sun. Low flying birds also ensure for a smoother / less disruptive background blur - against the water, reeds or The Milnerton golf course greens.
  
  
• Movement: In most cases the birds around Woodbridge Island / Diep River flies on the same plane across the water. Very easy to capture them this way as the wide open spaces provides for good and early sighting ito to their approach (and to prepare for the shooting burst). However, there are various super-fast and erratic flying challenges (i.e diving for fish) with the various terns and kingfishers.
  
  
• Focus on the eye: With many fast and / or smaller birds I do not use this as such a strong criteria to focus on the eye first. I use a shooting style of shooting most birds from behind until I can see the Focus Points covering the head / eye-area. In most cases this is more than good enough. For some larger birds, such as a stretched-out flamingo, focusing on the eye at i.e. f/5.6 may result in other parts of the body that may be slightly out of focus. F/6.1 or smaller could be considered for more sharpness (especially if there are more than on bird in the frame). 
  
  

Water Thick-Knee in Flight : Learning habitat /  bird behaviour was essential

• Background blur options: You do not require a large sensor full frame Canon body (i.e. EOS 6D) and the EF 300mm f/2.8L IS II lens for generating  sufficient background blur when photographing birds in flight. I spend a lot of time in my workshops discussing and demonstrating background blurring possibilities and how to achieve effective blurring with an APS-C body (i.e. EOS 7D Mark II) and the EF 400mm f/5.6L USM lens. More about background blur considerations
  
  
• Background: With background I really mean what is behind the flying bird. Is it just blue sky or is it a nice bokeh of green grass or purple bush? Some of the challenges we have here are houses, cars and golfers that could become a huge distraction / part of the captured bird image. What I do to minimize this is to shoot in specific areas with certain (unfortunately, very narrow) windows of natural background opportunities.
  
  
• Contrast: Black birds (i.e. oystercatchers and red-knobbed coots) are at times difficult to track and capture. We've seen on occasion how even the advanced Canon AF systems sometimes struggle with some of these black feathered birds against a dark blue water / dark tree background. The Canon AF System needs contrast for the AF points to lock-on to [any] subject i.e. a fast flying bird against the darker bush backgrounds will be more challenging than a white egret against the blue water. In most cases the AF points lock on without any issues.
  
  

Cormorant around the bend : Providing a different composition

• Composition: For the new Birds in Flight photographer composition is one of the last things to think about. A much bigger challenge at this stage of the learning curve is just getting a small / fast flying bird in the frame. With time the attention will shift to be more mindful of the type of compositions that could be achieved with flying birds. Cropping in post-processing will also provide for some compositional adjustment.
  
  
• Post-processing:  It's far easier to import a good capture (ito exposure and several of above criteria into consideration) into post processing than a poorly exposed images / not meeting the photographer's expectations. I do not spend a lot of time in Adobe Lightroom and generally apply cropping / noise reduction and a few other tweaks. I shoot in RAW and then over time (if required) will work on an image for a final JPG outcome.

African Sacred Ibis in Flight : Intaka Island, Century City

Exposure requirements, technique and AF settings

The above listed variables and suggestions are not by any means the only criteria for learning and excelling with Birds in Flight Photography. For instance, I did not discuss the various exposure requirements (ito ISO / Aperture / Shutter Speed) in this article. Neither did I discuss any specific technique or Autofocus settings. During my Birds in Flight Photography / AI Servo Autofocus workshops and private training I discuss specific camera / AF settings and configurations in more detail.

A comprehensive understanding and application of the modern Canon AI Servo Autofocus System (with all the different configurations and settings) can take time to master. Like all other photographic genres Birds in Flight photography requires knowledge (camera / exposure), experience, patience and trial and error in learning the fundamentals and applying the learning for achieving required imagery outcomes. More on the Setup and Tips for Birds in Flight Photography.

Article / Images Copyright Vernon Chalmers 2018- 2024

Canon EOS 7D Mark II / 400mm Lens - Woodbridge Island / Cape Town

Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Birds in Flight Photography Cape Town

Birds in Flight Photography Training Gift Vouchers View

The Theory of Photography

Canon Photography Training Milnerton Woodbridge Island | Kirstenbosch Cape Town | Intaka Island

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

Used Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II Lens For Sale, Cape Town R26 000 (neg)

With / Without Canon Extender EF 1.4X III Teleconverter

For Sale: Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens, Cape Town

Please Note: This Lens is Sold

Pre-Owned Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens : Field-Tested by Vernon Chalmers

This Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens is For Sale currently in Milnerton (opposite Woodbridge Island), Cape Town. I am selling this lens on behalf of a private client. The lens is just over two years old and I have had the opportunity to carry out various in-field pre-sales evaluation shoots over the past few weeks (at Kirstenbosch Garden and Woodbridge Island).

General lens description

The Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens is a professional wildlife lens popular amongst Canon EOS / EOS R enthusiast and professional photographers alike. It is versatile lens with a variable aperture range (f/4.5 - f/5.6)  and a zoom range between 100mm - 400mm which is ideal for wildlife, nature and other genres. The largest aperture (f/5.6) at 400mm makes the lens ideal for close-up garden bird, flower and insect photography. This is mainly due to its impressive Minimum Focus Distance (MFD) range = lens to subject focus range. This lens will perform well on any Canon EOS / EOS R APS-C (Crop) of Full-Frame body. View brief / detailed lens specifications below the four images further down.

Note: For pairing this lens with any EOS R APS-C / Full Frame body the Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R optional accessory is required. It is fully compatible with all Canon EOS digital bodies without any adapter. 

Impressions of the lens and performance

I paired the lens with one of my mid-range Canon EOS 70D (APS-C / Crop) bodies for both field trips. The lens performed well within the expected performance of any other Canon professional L-Series I have used (my own) / evaluated (on behalf of Canon SA) at the same locations in terms of sharpness, autofocus speed / accuracy, Image Stabilisation and ergonomics. I have been using Canon L-Series lenses for more than 10 years and although I am used to most specifications I was highly impressed with the minimum MFD (0.98 m) for such a 'long' lens - meaning I could really focus from close proximity on butterflies and small birds - and still shoot at 400mm. The autofocus, sharpness and bokeh = quality of deliberate background blur is also an improvement over the original lens (mark 1 version). The lens is more / less the same weight as the previous generation, but still marginally lighter than most lenses in the traditional non-Canon 150 - 600mm category.

Focal length / Exposure settings used
I mainly used the lens in the 300 to 400mm focal length range with the Canon EOS 70D either in Aperture (Av) Mode or Manual mode with Auto-ISO at various Apertures and Shutter Speeds.

Close-Up Photography at 400mm

The lens can also be used with various compatible extension tubes and close-up lens filters for close-up photography (reducing the MFD) at up to full focal length reach of 400mm. The 4-Stop Image Stabilisation system works well to counter camera shake when shooting close-up subjects handheld.

Original Canon Lens Case and Canon ET-83D Lens Hood

Recommendations for considering this lens for purchase 
This copy of the Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens is in immaculate condition. I would personally rate the lens a 9 out of a possible 10. The lens was well maintained, stored in lens case when not used and above all, not used very often - as the client uses two bodies with different lens pairings - one for wildlife and then one for everything else.  All Canon bespoke accessories are provided - even with original Canon packaging. I personally bought the original EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS USM lens from the same client almost two years ago (for the same reasons as above) and was just as pleasantly surprised with the condition of the older lens - and that lens was used over a much longer period than this lens. This lens will add professional value to any Canon photographer looking for a high-quality L-Series lens for personal and / or professional application(s).

Client's personal application and use
My client mainly used this lens, on occasion, for wildlife and nature photography. This lens (in conjunction with other Canon L-Series lenses) were paired from time to time with a Canon EOS 7D (APS-C), EOS 5D Mark III or EOS R6 (both Full Frame). The images I've seen captured with this lens from all three bodies were mostly sharp, well focussed, vibrant with pleasing bokeh (background blur) - where applicable.

Canon Extender EF 1.4X III Teleconverter Option
The lens is available for purchase with or without the Canon EF 1.4X III Teleconverter. The teleconverter will further extend the lens (by 1.4x) - especially when used with a Full-Frame Canon EOS or Canon EOS R body.

The extender / teleconverter is also in excellent condition (it was acquired at the same time of lens purchase). I did not use the extender as I used the Canon EOS 70D - which already provides for extended magnification with the 1.4 crop factor of the camera.

Optional For Sale Lens Accessory : Canon Extender EF 1.4X III

Pricing Options:

• Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens R26 000 (neg)
• Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens with Canon 1.4 X Extender R28 000 (neg)
• Canon Extender EF 1.4X III Teleconverter R3 500 (not negotiable)

Reason for selling:
Client upgraded to a Canon EOS R6 System (with RF 100-500mm lens) recently.

Purchasing process / Possible purchase
The lens and accessories are available for inspection / testing at Arnhem Milnerton (either in my Studio or Home / Office). 

Arnhem is opposite Woodbridge Island, Milnerton Map | Directions

Client will ultimately decide on final price / payment will be direct to client.

Contact Me direct for more information / scheduling an appointment.

Below are four Vernon Chalmers images captured recently with this pre-owned Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens (paired with the Canon EOS 70D)

More Kirstenbosch butterfly and flower images >>

More Woodbridge Island bird and flower images >> 

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens : Woodbridge Island

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens : Woodbridge Island

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens : Kirstenbosch Garden

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens : Woodbridge Island

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens Key Specifications

• Lens Type:  Zoom lens
• Focal Length: 100–400mm
• Image Stabilisation (4 stops)
• Lens Mount: Canon EF
• Max Aperture: f/4.5–5.6
• Min Aperture f/32–40
• Min Focus (MFD) 0.98 m (38.58″)
• Max Magnification 0.31×
• Weight :1570 g (3.46 lb)
• Length: 193 mm (7.6″)

Canon EF 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM Lens Detailed Specifications

Photography Training Intaka Island | Kirstenbosch Garden | Woodbridge Island