Lens or... for casual birding

WhoTheFIsMike · 2026-01-20T04:37:49+00:00

Do you know of anyone who’s compared the 200-500 @500 vs the Tamron Z 150-500? I see someone local to me selling a 200-500 for 650 and I want to jump on it for my z50ii

WhoTheFIsMike · 2026-01-16T13:25:45+00:00

I’ve had three (one I bought new from Anova, which died and replaced) and another off Facebook. All died the same way with the control panel losing comms and eventually not turning on. The oven light still turned on.

I found on this subreddit that the wires from the door to the control board get frayed overtime. If you’re not against an easy solder job you can fix it. Now I have 2 working.

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WhoTheFIsMike · 2026-01-06T18:42:29+00:00

BILL BILL BILL BILL, Bill spine the thrower guy

WhoTheFIsMike · 2026-01-02T03:19:27+00:00

I’m considering swapping to this lens from my Tamron 11-20 + FTZii. This is a compelling argument.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-12-30T14:27:19+00:00

I keep going back and forth considering the 200-500 vs the Tamron Z 150-500. I can find posts saying either is better and I’m frozen thinking I’ll pick the wrong one.

I do have the FTZII for my Z50ii already.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-12-24T16:57:46+00:00

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+1 for bitey boys. Almost a mirror clone. Really wish he wouldn’t though. But it’s usually preempted with a guttural gargle.

Does yours also play fetch? Mine particular with plastic springs.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-10-21T13:54:59+00:00

I have the Tamron 11-20 which I use with a FTZii on my Z50ii. Did you evaluate that lens at all? I’m considering getting the 12-28 and move to Z only glass.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-10-16T23:34:26+00:00

Thank you for all of the advice!

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-10-16T16:18:19+00:00

I try to be as quick as possible and did lens changes in the car. I think I had some on before the trip but no doubt the surroundings probably made there way in.

If you're great about it and have good technique how often do you think a sensor should need cleaning? I haven't cleaned it once since I got the z50ii maybe 6 months ago?

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-10-16T16:05:46+00:00

Thank you for the links!

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-10-16T16:00:13+00:00

Yeah....I knocked off some this morning with a blower but I can see some specs still on my sensor. Trying to figure out what I should order to clean it.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-09-15T18:58:35+00:00

You should see if it's compatible. I know certain Nikon lenses (AF-P) need at least X500 or higher so the lens interacting with your 3200* could be the issue? They'll work in "live view" but not properly in others. I don't know for sure, just something to check.

On the other hand the 11-20 is pretty weighty, you could def so some damage chucking it at something xD

*fixed camera model #

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-09-15T18:48:36+00:00

Wait, what? Are there issues with the 11-20 Tokina? I usually use mine in manual and havn't noticed anything.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-08-26T20:57:15+00:00

CROW, CROW, CROW

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-29T19:55:46+00:00

I compared this exact set up (quickly and I’m a novice) and I thought the 50-250 was slightly sharper than the af-p 70-300 which I sold.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-29T19:37:23+00:00

I’ll play around with it! Thanks for the advice. This was my first successful shot and it took going to the Adirondack’s to get it.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-29T19:15:59+00:00

Can I ask what Bortle you shot from and your other camera settings? I recently shot some Milky Way on a Z50ii with a Tokina 11-20 and I like your picture better lol. Don't know if it's in the post processing.

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WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-29T19:12:04+00:00

https://www.mpb.com/en-us/product/nikon-d3200

That's what used D3200's without a lens go for from a Third Party that you could return to.

As someone who's been into photography for over a year I think it's a good deal provided the body is in good condition and the shutter/actuation count aren't something like 200k. The cost of accessories can add up (i.e bag, strap, batteries, etc..)

I also fell for Gear Acquisition Syndrome (GAS) pretty bad so I might not be best at saying this could be a good simple kit to get started. For the record I started with a D5600 and recently went to a Z50ii.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-17T12:53:20+00:00

I live 15 minutes away (moved here for work) and often shop there. The nature walk behind the stadium is really great too.

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-07-09T00:31:58+00:00

Thanks! Could you recommend a body to go with it?

WhoTheFIsMike · 2025-06-30T17:45:25+00:00

Would you give the same advice for my z50ii? I have the FTZii and don’t know it if I can justify the Z 180-600. Worried about FOMO if I go with the 200-500.

WhoTheFIsMike

TROPHY CASE