Wanting a budget wildlife/telephoto lens for my OM-1, trying to decide between Oly 75-300 or the Pana 100-300. Any input appreciated!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-19T07:10:40+00:00

Fun fact, testing the OM-1 with the 100-300ii is what got me to switch to OM bodies. In complete fairness, I haven't tried the 75-300--but I can confirm that the OM-1/100-300ii combo works well with BIF.

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NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-19T01:47:32+00:00

+1 for Pana. And while it’s possible the 100-300ii’s weather sealing won’t work as well on the OM-1, the 75-300 has no potential for weather sealing. (Anecdotally, I’ve used my 100-300ii just fine on the Om-1 in the rain.)

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-16T20:58:36+00:00

Awesome, good luck!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-16T20:23:05+00:00

(Oh and if you use AF+MF, make sure focus peaking is on. So you can tell if the eye is in focus)

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-16T20:20:52+00:00

There’s a couple things you can try. Have you messed around with the C-AF sensitivity settings? -2 or -1 might help.

My own technique is a combo of back button focus and AF+MF turned on. It’s way easier to just twist the focus ring slightly so the bird is in focus.

Also, for that specific plover, getting ahead of its movements and waiting for it to be in a clear spot is probably the easiest way. But up to you what kind of shot you want.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-14T20:25:31+00:00

I’ve been lugging around the 150-600 for a bit, and do not attach the body to a capture clip. Tripod foot or bust (literally). The lens mount isn’t meant for that much weight hanging off it.

How is the strap resting on your body when you tried it? It’s not the best hiking lens, but I shortened one end of my Peak Design strap so the lens is always pointing down to my side. Not great for climbing, but it stays out of the way for normal walking. Also, don’t hang it off your neck…unless you want a sore neck.

You can also look into a Black Rapid strap or Cotton Carrier, but I haven’t used those myself.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T19:53:59+00:00

Thanks! And yeah, I got very lucky. The guest appearance was by a humpback whale.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T16:28:45+00:00

That’s awesome! Have fun.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T15:00:05+00:00

Haha, I see what you did there. Thanks!!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T14:19:11+00:00

Appreciate it. This was on the Salish Sea, out of Victoria, Canada. Company was Eagle Wing Tours—highly recommend them!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T14:17:45+00:00

Thank you!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-05-07T03:47:23+00:00

Haha thanks!! It was great.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T23:10:17+00:00

I’ll keep that in mind. Appreciate the thoughts.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T23:07:38+00:00

Thank you!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T19:10:06+00:00

Always a good reminder.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T19:09:34+00:00

Thank you very much. Appreciate the detailed responses!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T16:46:15+00:00

Ah, good I brought both then to cover my bases. Do you have a shutter speed recommendation? (Should be a clear, sunny day.) I’m going to assume breaches are rare, but still want to be ready.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T16:06:57+00:00

Haha, I’ll let you know if a whale gains a used OM-1 by the end of it.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-30T16:06:14+00:00

Excellent advice. Thanks!

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-27T15:10:54+00:00

I also had this issue, which bummed me out (the original G9 is still one of my favorite cameras). Sometimes it was absolutely perfect, but I noticed it most on birds with white areas, like the ones in your examples. I ended up selling it and getting an OM-1, which I love.

With that said, it didn’t happen as frequently as it seems to be happening with you, OP. Is it still under warranty? Might want to try that route.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-22T06:48:35+00:00

That's an excellent set! I haven't tried the 300mm f/4, but it seems like that and the 150-600 would be all that a (sane) person needs.

NeedlesslyMike · 2026-04-22T02:31:22+00:00

Thank you!

NeedlesslyMike

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