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The Top 10 Lenses for Wildlife Photography
by Keenan Hursh
Wildlife photography is an incredibly exciting, thrilling, and rewarding art form that requires dedication, patience, and oftentimes an intimate understanding of your subjects. There’s nothing more exciting than putting in the work, waiting however long it may take, and then finally getting the shot you were after. But a photographer is only as good as their gear. No matter how many things you do right, you need gear that is up to speed and capable of capturing the images you’re after.
Of course, having the right camera is essential but having the right lens for the job is arguably even more important. When photographing wildlife your subjects are often quite far away, quite small, or both. You’ll likely need some sort of telephoto lens with high focal lengths and magnification to get a decent shot.
In today’s article, we’ll be taking a look at the absolute best lenses for landscape photography. We’ll look at many different options from multiple manufacturers and we’ll take a look at both zoom and prime lenses. It’s also worth noting that these are simply our top picks here at BCJ. There are many other lenses out there that are exceptional for photographing wildlife but these are the ones that we really think take the cake.
Alright, let’s get right into it and take a look at the top 10 lenses for wildlife photography!
Of course, having the right camera is essential but having the right lens for the job is arguably even more important. When photographing wildlife your subjects are often quite far away, quite small, or both. You’ll likely need some sort of telephoto lens with high focal lengths and magnification to get a decent shot.
In today’s article, we’ll be taking a look at the absolute best lenses for landscape photography. We’ll look at many different options from multiple manufacturers and we’ll take a look at both zoom and prime lenses. It’s also worth noting that these are simply our top picks here at BCJ. There are many other lenses out there that are exceptional for photographing wildlife but these are the ones that we really think take the cake.
Alright, let’s get right into it and take a look at the top 10 lenses for wildlife photography!
The Best Zoom Lenses
We’ll start out by taking a look at the best zoom lenses. Both zoom and prime lenses have their benefits and drawbacks and if you’re interested in this subject then be sure to check out this article to learn more about zoom vs. prime lenses. Zoom lenses are a great option for anyone looking for flexibility in focal lengths and the types of shots they can take.
Here are some of the zoom lenses that we believe are the absolute best when it comes to wildlife photography:
We’ll start out by taking a look at the best zoom lenses. Both zoom and prime lenses have their benefits and drawbacks and if you’re interested in this subject then be sure to check out this article to learn more about zoom vs. prime lenses. Zoom lenses are a great option for anyone looking for flexibility in focal lengths and the types of shots they can take.
Here are some of the zoom lenses that we believe are the absolute best when it comes to wildlife photography:
Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 L IS USM
Specs:
The RF 100-500mm lens from Canon is an excellent option for wildlife photographers seeking flexibility. With a very nice range in focal lengths, you can photograph larger animals relatively nearby as well as subjects that are quite far away. You can also use this lens with the 1.4x teleconverter at focal lengths above 300mm for subjects that are very far away. On top of that, you’re getting Canon L quality glass, wicked fast and accurate autofocusing, and many other modern features that you would expect in a lens of this caliber. The RF 100-500 is also relatively lightweight and compact, especially compared to any DSLR lens, making it easy to travel with and hold for long periods of time.
Specs:
- Price: $2,899 USD
- Full Frame | f/4.5-7.1 to f/32-54
- Dual Nano USM AF System
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
The RF 100-500mm lens from Canon is an excellent option for wildlife photographers seeking flexibility. With a very nice range in focal lengths, you can photograph larger animals relatively nearby as well as subjects that are quite far away. You can also use this lens with the 1.4x teleconverter at focal lengths above 300mm for subjects that are very far away. On top of that, you’re getting Canon L quality glass, wicked fast and accurate autofocusing, and many other modern features that you would expect in a lens of this caliber. The RF 100-500 is also relatively lightweight and compact, especially compared to any DSLR lens, making it easy to travel with and hold for long periods of time.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
Specs:
The NIKKOR Z 100-400 is a beast. Perhaps this lens doesn’t reach massive focal lengths like many others in this category but nonetheless, it packs a punch. As part of the NIKKOR S line, you can rest assured that it will have top-notch glass and optics. And on top of that, there is a lot of very attractive tech in this lens as well including an information OLED Panel, a customizable control ring and function buttons, as well as Nikon’s inner balance technology. Additionally, you can of course use this lens with either a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter to extend its reach.
It’s worth noting that Nikon recently released a very approachable and affordable telephoto zoom lens: the Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR which does have a much larger reach. But, because it’s so new and hasn’t thoroughly been tested and due to the fact that the optics aren’t quite up to par with the S line optics in the 100-400 we’ve selected this lens as the top telephoto zoom from Nikon. That being said the 180-600 is a great option for those on a budget or who simply want that extra reach. It is by no means a bad lens, and in fact, looks pretty awesome!
Specs:
- Price: $2,697 USD
- Full Frame | f/4.5 to f/40
- Multi-Focus Stepping Motor AF System
- Vibration Reduction Images Stabilization
- Programmable Control Ring
The NIKKOR Z 100-400 is a beast. Perhaps this lens doesn’t reach massive focal lengths like many others in this category but nonetheless, it packs a punch. As part of the NIKKOR S line, you can rest assured that it will have top-notch glass and optics. And on top of that, there is a lot of very attractive tech in this lens as well including an information OLED Panel, a customizable control ring and function buttons, as well as Nikon’s inner balance technology. Additionally, you can of course use this lens with either a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter to extend its reach.
It’s worth noting that Nikon recently released a very approachable and affordable telephoto zoom lens: the Nikon NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 VR which does have a much larger reach. But, because it’s so new and hasn’t thoroughly been tested and due to the fact that the optics aren’t quite up to par with the S line optics in the 100-400 we’ve selected this lens as the top telephoto zoom from Nikon. That being said the 180-600 is a great option for those on a budget or who simply want that extra reach. It is by no means a bad lens, and in fact, looks pretty awesome!
Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS
Specs:
The Sony FE 200-600mm telephoto zoom is an excellent option for Sony users looking to photograph wildlife. With a very versatile focal range of 200-600mm you can capture a wide array of images and subjects with ease. On top of that, this lens has excellent AF capabilities, top-notch optics, a rugged and weather-resistant construction, and the 11-bladed aperture diaphragm can create beautiful bokeh and background blur. If you’re shooting with Sony and want an extremely versatile telephoto zoom for wildlife then this is the lens for you!
Specs:
- Price: $1,998 USD
- Full Frame | f/5.6 to f/36
- Direct Drive Super Sonic Wave AF Motor
- Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization
- Rounded 11-Blade Diaphragm
- Removable, Rotating Tripod Collar
The Sony FE 200-600mm telephoto zoom is an excellent option for Sony users looking to photograph wildlife. With a very versatile focal range of 200-600mm you can capture a wide array of images and subjects with ease. On top of that, this lens has excellent AF capabilities, top-notch optics, a rugged and weather-resistant construction, and the 11-bladed aperture diaphragm can create beautiful bokeh and background blur. If you’re shooting with Sony and want an extremely versatile telephoto zoom for wildlife then this is the lens for you!
OM SYSTEM M. Zuiko 150-400mm f/4.5 TC 1.25 IS PRO
Specs:
The OM SYSTEM M. Zuiko 150-400mm is an absolute beast. With a built-in 1.25x teleconverter and a very impressive focal range of 150-400 for micro four thirds sensors which is a staggering 300-800 full-frame equivalent, you’ll be able to capture small subjects very far away without any worries. This lens really seems to do it all and excels in bird photography, works great in low-light conditions, and even does quite well as a macro lens. Oh, and with the 1.25x teleconverter you can achieve a full-frame equivalent focal range of 375-1000mm. If you’re shooting with the OM system, want a top-notch telephoto for wildlife, and can afford the hefty price tag, then this lens if for you.
Specs:
- Price: $7,500 USD
- Micro Four Thirds | f/4.5 to f/22
- 300-800mm Full Frame Equivalent
- Integrated 1.25x Teleconverter
- High-Speed Imager Autofocus (MSC)
The OM SYSTEM M. Zuiko 150-400mm is an absolute beast. With a built-in 1.25x teleconverter and a very impressive focal range of 150-400 for micro four thirds sensors which is a staggering 300-800 full-frame equivalent, you’ll be able to capture small subjects very far away without any worries. This lens really seems to do it all and excels in bird photography, works great in low-light conditions, and even does quite well as a macro lens. Oh, and with the 1.25x teleconverter you can achieve a full-frame equivalent focal range of 375-1000mm. If you’re shooting with the OM system, want a top-notch telephoto for wildlife, and can afford the hefty price tag, then this lens if for you.
Sigma 60-600mm f/4.5-6.3 DG DN OS
Specs:
The Sigma 60-600mm is an extremely versatile lens. With 10x magnification and a focal range of 60-600mm you’ll be able to photograph pretty much any wildlife subject you may come across, unless it’s a mile away. Yes, it is quite heavy and a bit on the larger side of things but for the price this lens is one of the best bangs for your buck in the field. It may not have the absolute best optics on the market, but this lens can get the job done and I think you’ll be surprised with how sharp and nice your images will look right out of the camera. If you want a ton of flexibility and are working with a bit of a budget this is a great option.
Specs:
- Price: $1,999 USD
- Full Frame | f/4.5-6.3 to f/22-32
- HLA Linear Focusing Motor
- Dual Action Zoom System
- OS Image Stabilization
- Rounded 9-Blade Diaphragm
The Sigma 60-600mm is an extremely versatile lens. With 10x magnification and a focal range of 60-600mm you’ll be able to photograph pretty much any wildlife subject you may come across, unless it’s a mile away. Yes, it is quite heavy and a bit on the larger side of things but for the price this lens is one of the best bangs for your buck in the field. It may not have the absolute best optics on the market, but this lens can get the job done and I think you’ll be surprised with how sharp and nice your images will look right out of the camera. If you want a ton of flexibility and are working with a bit of a budget this is a great option.
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VXD
Specs:
The Tamron 150-500mm is an excellent option for those looking to achieve higher focal lengths on a budget. No, this lens doesn’t really compare to some of the top-notch competitors from big manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, and Sony but for the price you get a very decent lens that you’ll likely be surprised with. This lens has pretty good optics and can work with many popular systems and cameras. If you’re looking to get into the wildlife photography game and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg then this could be just what you’re looking for.
Specs:
- Price: $1,199 USD
- Full Frame | f/5.6-6.7 to f/22-32
- VXD eXtreme-Torque Drive Linear AF Motor
- VC Image Stabilization
- Rounded 7-Blade Diaphragm
The Tamron 150-500mm is an excellent option for those looking to achieve higher focal lengths on a budget. No, this lens doesn’t really compare to some of the top-notch competitors from big manufacturers like Canon, Nikon, and Sony but for the price you get a very decent lens that you’ll likely be surprised with. This lens has pretty good optics and can work with many popular systems and cameras. If you’re looking to get into the wildlife photography game and don’t want to spend an arm and a leg then this could be just what you’re looking for.
The Best Prime Lenses
Alright, now that we’ve taken a look at several impressive zoom lenses let’s head over to the other side of the spectrum and dive into the world of telephoto primes. Again, if you’d like to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of zoom vs. prime lenses be sure to check out this article. In short prime lenses, which have fixed focal lengths, are known for having superior optics and image quality. These lenses are usually quite large with massive front elements so that they can let a ton of light in. Because of this, you can often achieve much wider maximum apertures and therefore isolate your subjects from the background to a greater extent. Of course, you don’t have the flexibility of a range in focal lengths but if you’re after the absolute best image quality then primes are probably what you’re looking for. With that being said, let’s take a look at our favorites for wildlife photography.
Alright, now that we’ve taken a look at several impressive zoom lenses let’s head over to the other side of the spectrum and dive into the world of telephoto primes. Again, if you’d like to learn more about the benefits and drawbacks of zoom vs. prime lenses be sure to check out this article. In short prime lenses, which have fixed focal lengths, are known for having superior optics and image quality. These lenses are usually quite large with massive front elements so that they can let a ton of light in. Because of this, you can often achieve much wider maximum apertures and therefore isolate your subjects from the background to a greater extent. Of course, you don’t have the flexibility of a range in focal lengths but if you’re after the absolute best image quality then primes are probably what you’re looking for. With that being said, let’s take a look at our favorites for wildlife photography.
Canon RF 600mm f/4 L IS USM
Specs:
The Canon RF 600mm f/4 is an absolute beast that can capture some truly incredible, sharp, and stunning wildlife images (and the price proves it). This massive telephoto prime with a maximum aperture of f/4 will beautifully isolate your subjects from their backgrounds, will work great in lower light situations, and will produce stunning and razor-sharp images. With all of the bells and whistles expected of a super telephoto prime and with some of the best optics around this lens is sure to capture some stunning wildlife shots no matter where you are. If you want the best of the best from Canon and can afford a lens of this caliper then definitely check out the RF 600mm f/4 prime.
Specs:
- Price: $12,999 USD
- Full Frame | f/4 to f/32
- Optical Image Stabilizer
- Customizable Electronic Focusing Ring
- Circular 9-Blade Diaphragm
The Canon RF 600mm f/4 is an absolute beast that can capture some truly incredible, sharp, and stunning wildlife images (and the price proves it). This massive telephoto prime with a maximum aperture of f/4 will beautifully isolate your subjects from their backgrounds, will work great in lower light situations, and will produce stunning and razor-sharp images. With all of the bells and whistles expected of a super telephoto prime and with some of the best optics around this lens is sure to capture some stunning wildlife shots no matter where you are. If you want the best of the best from Canon and can afford a lens of this caliper then definitely check out the RF 600mm f/4 prime.
Nikon NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S
Specs:
And if the Canon 600mm prime wasn’t enough, then this absolutely insane lens from Nikon will knock your socks off. With a built-in 1.4x teleconverter, incredibly sharp and accurate optics, 5.5 stops of optical stabilization, and so much more you’ll be able to capture some truly incredible wildlife images with the NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens. A maximum aperture of f/4 combined with optical stabilization will allow you to shoot in low-light situations without raising your ISO too high and you can even pair this lens with external teleconverters to achieve absurdly high focal lengths. If you shoot Nikon and want an incredibly powerful and versatile super telephoto prime then take a look at this lens.
Specs:
- Price: $15,497 USD
- Full Frame | f/4 to f/22
- Built-In 1.4x Teleconverter
- Silky Swift VCM Autofocus System
- 5.5-Stop VR Image Stabilization
And if the Canon 600mm prime wasn’t enough, then this absolutely insane lens from Nikon will knock your socks off. With a built-in 1.4x teleconverter, incredibly sharp and accurate optics, 5.5 stops of optical stabilization, and so much more you’ll be able to capture some truly incredible wildlife images with the NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens. A maximum aperture of f/4 combined with optical stabilization will allow you to shoot in low-light situations without raising your ISO too high and you can even pair this lens with external teleconverters to achieve absurdly high focal lengths. If you shoot Nikon and want an incredibly powerful and versatile super telephoto prime then take a look at this lens.
Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS
Specs:
The Sony FE 600mm f/4 is yet another super telephoto powerhouse that will get you up close and personal with the action. With an impressive focal length, a fast maximum aperture, impressive image stabilization, and autofocusing capabilities, and so much more, you really can’t go wrong. If you shoot Sony and want to capture some tack-sharp, insanely detailed wildlife images then this just might be the lens for you. And, of course, you can pair this lens with Sony teleconverters to achieve even greater magnification.
Specs:
- Price: $12,998 USD
- Full Frame | f/4 to f/22
- XD Linear Motor AF System
- Optical SteadyShot Image Stabilization
- Rounded 11-Blade Diaphragm
The Sony FE 600mm f/4 is yet another super telephoto powerhouse that will get you up close and personal with the action. With an impressive focal length, a fast maximum aperture, impressive image stabilization, and autofocusing capabilities, and so much more, you really can’t go wrong. If you shoot Sony and want to capture some tack-sharp, insanely detailed wildlife images then this just might be the lens for you. And, of course, you can pair this lens with Sony teleconverters to achieve even greater magnification.
Sigma 500mm f/4 DG OS HSM
Specs:
Alright, we have finally arrived at the last lens on today’s list. If you want an impressive super telephoto prime lens and don’t want to spend tens of thousands of dollars then this beast from Sigma might be just what you’re looking for. With a fast maximum aperture and optical stabilization, you’ll be able to capture impressive wildlife photos handheld and in lower-light situations. This lens also features an impressive AF system and gives you the option of sliding in your own filters which is quite unique. If you want premium optics from Sigma or want a nice telephoto prime lens for capturing wildlife images, all at a reasonable price point, then this lens is for you.
Specs:
- Price: $5,999 USD
- Full Frame | f/4 to f/32
- Hyper Sonic AF Motor, Manual Override
- Optical Stabilizer; Drop-in Filter Slot
- Rotatable Tripod Collar with Click Stops
Alright, we have finally arrived at the last lens on today’s list. If you want an impressive super telephoto prime lens and don’t want to spend tens of thousands of dollars then this beast from Sigma might be just what you’re looking for. With a fast maximum aperture and optical stabilization, you’ll be able to capture impressive wildlife photos handheld and in lower-light situations. This lens also features an impressive AF system and gives you the option of sliding in your own filters which is quite unique. If you want premium optics from Sigma or want a nice telephoto prime lens for capturing wildlife images, all at a reasonable price point, then this lens is for you.
Conclusion
Alright, this has been our comprehensive list of the top 10 lenses for wildlife photography. We wanted to make this list as diverse and thorough as possible. Perhaps an affordable Tamron zoom lens doesn’t directly compare to a telephoto prime lens from Sony but at the end of the day, they can both be used to photograph wildlife on the exact same camera body. I hope this list has been helpful and informative and wish you all the best of luck on your next wildlife photography adventure!
Alright, this has been our comprehensive list of the top 10 lenses for wildlife photography. We wanted to make this list as diverse and thorough as possible. Perhaps an affordable Tamron zoom lens doesn’t directly compare to a telephoto prime lens from Sony but at the end of the day, they can both be used to photograph wildlife on the exact same camera body. I hope this list has been helpful and informative and wish you all the best of luck on your next wildlife photography adventure!
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AUTHOR
Keenan Hursh is a Photographer, visual designer, and creative story teller based out of Bozeman, Montana. He draws inspiration from his frequent excursions into the natural world and always brings his camera along to capture whatever adventures he finds himself in. Keenan is passionate about documenting and sharing fleeting moments from the natural world and focuses primarily on wildlife, landscape, and adventure photography.
When it comes to gear, he primarily shoots digital with his Canon EOS R5 and EOS 6D mark ii but also has several 35mm film cameras that get out every now and then.
At a very young age, Keenan started bringing a camera along on his excursions and immediately fell in love with the art of photography. He started out with his parent’s cheap point and shoot and has continuously improved his craft and gear refining his shooting style and producing more compelling and intriguing images.
Growing up in the foothills of Boulder, Colorado, surrounded by mountains and wilderness, Keenan has developed a deep passion for many outdoor activities. When he’s not out on a shoot or using his camera, Keenan enjoys skiing, climbing, hiking, backpacking, cycling, whitewater rafting, and paragliding. If he’s outside, away from the distractions of society and civilization, he’s in his happy place.
Keenan studied Emergent Digital Practices at the University of Denver while minoring in Marketing and Entrepreneurship. Since earning his degree in 2019 he was worked with a wide range of clients, companies, and organizations throughout his career. Apart from photography he specializes in content creation, writing, brand development, and graphic design.
You can view Keenan’s portfolio on his website at www.keenanhurshphoto.com
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"Backcountry Journeys offers guests the unique opportunity to explore our natural world from behind their own lens. We run a selection of hand-crafted Photo Tours, Workshops & Safaris connecting passionate people to exceptional experiences. Locations worldwide.
All Images & Content are property of Backcountry Journeys Photography Tours, Workshops & Safaris LLC - Copyright 2024
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