Looking for the best lens for bird photography?
Here’s our top picks, expert reviews and product reviews for the best bird photography lens in 2023.
Top 8 Best Lens for Bird Photography 2023
Here’s the top 8 options for the best bird photography lens in 2023:
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Read on for more reviews…
1. Sigma 150-600mm f5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Sigma 150-600mm f5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon is a must-have for bird photographers.
This telephoto lens is compact and lightweight, making it easy to handle and shoot handheld.
It is a hyper-telephoto zoom lens that delivers excellent performance, making it an ideal choice for bird photography.
Specifications:
| Brand | Sigma |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 150-600mm |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Compatible Mountings | Nikon F, Canon EF, Sigma SA |
| Minimum Focusing Distance | 280cm/110.2 inches |
| Diaphragm Blades | 9 |
| Filter Size | 95mm |
| Weight | 1930g/68oz |
| Special Features | Dust-proof, splash-proof, water and oil repellent coating on front glass element |
The lens has a minimum focusing distance of 280cm/110.2 inches and nine diaphragm blades that provide an excellent bokeh effect.
The lens has a water and oil repellent coating on the front glass element, making maintenance easier.
The lens is splash-proof and dust-proof, making it perfect for outdoor use.
Pros:
- Lightweight and compact
- Great for wildlife photography
- Excellent image quality
- Weather-resistant
- Fast and accurate autofocus
- Good price for its performance
Cons:
- Can cause fatigue after extended use
- A bit bulky
- The auto-focus can be sticky at times
2. Tamron – Auto Focus Macro Zoom Lens with Built-in Motor for Nikon Digital SLR
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As a photography enthusiast, you know that a good lens can make all the difference.
If you’re looking for the best bird photography lens, you can’t go wrong with the Tamron AF 70-300mm f/4.0-5.6 Di LD Macro Zoom Lens.
This lens offers close-focusing ability with a magnification ratio of 1:2, allowing you to photograph small objects up close.
Specifications:
- Focal length: 70-300mm
- Lens type: Telephoto
- Compatible mountings: Nikon F
- Angle of view: 34-8 degrees
- 6-year limited warranty
With its built-in motor, this telephoto zoom lens ensures fast and accurate focusing, so you won’t miss a shot.
The lens hood also provides maximum glare protection and increased contrast, making your photos look even better.
While it may not be the best for fast-paced action, this lens is an excellent choice for capturing beautiful bird photos.
Pros:
- One of the lowest-cost lenses available
- Focal length range of 180-300mm
- ‘Macro switchover’ mechanism allowing minimum focus distance of 0.95m
- Low dispersion (LD) glass elements for greater sharpness
Cons:
- Slow autofocus
- Lens motor is loud
- No image stabilizer
- Loss of sharpness as range increases
- Color casting
This is not a lens to buy for image quality but to be able to extend your focal range and capture that bird at an acceptable quality. It’s compact in size and very affordable in price.
3. 47th Street Photo – Super Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Looking for a budget-friendly yet high-quality telephoto lens for your Canon camera.
Look no further than the Opteka 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens from 47th Street Photo.
This lens has a solid metal body and rear t-mount, providing a rugged, durable feel when using it.
The built-in, rotating tripod collar offers well-balanced support for photographing atop a tripod or monopod.
Specifications:
- Brand: 47th Street Photo
- Lens Type: Telephoto
- Compatible Mountings: Canon EF, Canon EF-S, Canon EF
- Camera Lens Description: 500 millimeters
- Maximum Focal Length: 1000 millimeters
- Aperture: f/8
- Optical Coating: Super multi-layer coating
- Construction: Full metal body and rear t-mount
- Tripod Mount: Built-in, rotating tripod collar
With a super multi-layer coating applied to lens elements, it helps to minimize lens flare and ghosting, resulting in contrast-rich and color-neutral imagery.
While it’s manual focus, this lens performs well in a variety of scenes from sports to surveillance to everyday shooting.
The lens is sensitive to light and bright and sunny days are ideal.
However, in darker areas, it’s best to use a tripod.
With a price tag of around $100, it’s a great deal for beginner photographers who want to capture wildlife from a distance.
Note that the lens is heavier than your DSLR, so use a stable tripod for the best results.
While it’s manual focus, with practice, it’s possible to get acceptable images with the aperture and shutter speed settings.
The lens comes with several cleaning accessories and a UV filter, making it an excellent choice for outdoor photography.
Pros:
- Good value for money
- Metal body
- Includes manual exposure mode and aperture-priority mode
Cons:
- Only 500mm and 1000mm setting – nothing in between
- Will need a tripod
- Difficulty in focusing
Budget-friendly lens but problems to focus may leave you readjusting, focusing, missing the shot, readjusting, etc. until you give up on bird photography altogether.
4. BIG MIKE’S ELECTRONICS – High-Power Manual Telephoto Lens for Canon
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Look no further than the High-Power 500mm/1000mm f/8 Manual Telephoto Lens from BIG MIKE’S ELECTRONICS.
This lens is perfect for capturing stunning photos of birds in flight or at rest.
The lens is compatible with Canon EOS cameras and comes with a T-mount adapter for digital and 35mm Canon EOS SLR cameras.
Specifications
| Specification | Details |
|---|---|
| Brand | BIG MIKE’S ELECTRONICS |
| Focal Length Description | Telephoto |
| Lens Type | Interchangeable |
| Compatible Mountings | T Mount |
| Focal Length | 500mm |
| Maximum Aperture | f/8 |
| Included Teleconverter | 2X |
| Effective Focal Length with Teleconverter | 1000mm |
| Optical Glass | High index, low-dispersion multi-coated |
| Filter Thread Size | 67mm |
| Dimensions | 4 x 4 x 11 inches |
| Weight | 1.6 pounds |
The high index, low-dispersion multi-coated optical glass reduces flare, allowing you to capture crisp and clear images.
The 2X teleconverter doubles the power of your lens to 1000mm, making it perfect for capturing birds from a distance.
While this lens does not have auto-focus, it makes up for it in image quality and is a great value for the cost.
The lens may require a tripod for stabilization, but it’s worth it for the stunning photos you’ll be able to capture.
Pros:
- A high-powered zoom lens that doesn’t break the bank
- A great lens to go from point-and-shoot photography to a more advanced level
- Excellent definition in photos if a tripod is used
Cons:
- No image stabilization
- No autofocus
- Tripod needed
- Shutter remote recommended preventing camera shake
- Focusing ring jagged and hard to turn
The fact that this lens is fully manual may scare off newbie photographers. But, with some practice, anyone can master this lens and take high-quality photos with an inexpensive lens.
5. Sigma – Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon DSLR Cameras + Sigma USB Dock with Altura Photo Complete Accessory and Travel Bundle
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
As an expert in bird photography, the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary Lens bundle is a fantastic investment.
This high-performance lens is perfect for capturing those elusive shots, and the 95mm filter size and Optical Stabilizer with Accelerometer make it a versatile choice.
The lens has a lightweight and compact construction that’s ideal for traveling.
With an effective zoom of 900mm on an APS-C sensor, this lens delivers excellent image quality, and the manual focus option allows for full control.
The four-year warranty from Sigma ensures peace of mind, and the accessories included in the bundle make this an excellent value.
The only downside is that the camera bag is a bit small for this lens, but this is easily overlooked given the overall value of the bundle.
Specifications:
- Brand: Sigma
- Lens Type: Telephoto
- Camera Lens Description: 11
- Maximum Focal Length: 600 Millimeters
- Minimum Focal Length: 150 Millimeters
- Aperture Range: f/5-6.3
- Filter Size: 95mm
- Image Stabilization: Optical
- Focus Type: Autofocus
- Weight: 4.25 lbs
- Dimensions: 4.1 x 10.2 inches
Pros:
- Fast-focusing
- Perfect for the average shooter
- Images are clear and sharp
Cons:
- Hand-holding for extended periods will be difficult due to weight
- Fixed aperture lens
An amazing lens that will give you the results you desire without wiping out all your savings.
6. Lightdow 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Zoom Super Telephoto Lens
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
The Lightdow 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Zoom Super Telephoto Lens is a standout choice for photographers who are looking for a lens that’s easy to use and provides top-quality results.
This manual focus telephoto lens features advanced optics and super zoom, making it perfect for capturing stunning bird images.
Plus, the lens is made with a solid full metal construction that’s durable and built to last.
Specifications
| Specification | Value |
|---|---|
| Focal Length | 420-800mm |
| Aperture | f/8.3-16 |
| Lens Type | Telephoto |
| Mount Type | Canon EF, Canon EF-S |
| Autofocus | Manual focus only |
| Image Stabilization | None |
| Filter Thread | 67mm |
| Weight | 2.2 lbs |
| Dimensions | 3.3 x 3.3 x 8.3 inches |
| Construction | Solid metal |
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced photographer, the Lightdow lens is perfect for you.
Its affordability, excellent quality, and versatility make it a top pick in the market.
However, it’s important to note that this lens requires full manual settings on both camera and lens body.
So, if you’re looking for a lens that delivers excellent results and won’t break the bank, the Lightdow 420-800mm f/8.3 Manual Zoom Super Telephoto Lens is an ideal choice.
Pros:
- Low-cost
- Metal casing
- Good quality photos
- Super-zoom
Cons:
- Manual mode
- Although the quality of the photos are good, they’re not sharp
- Fringe distortion at max zoom
- Color is somewhat dull
If your aim is to take photos of birds and post them online, this lens will do. However, if you want to print your photos and sell your work, this lens lacks the necessary power.
7. Opteka – HD Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
Looking for a great bird photography lens that won’t break the bank?
Look no further than the Opteka 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens.
While you may have some doubts about the quality of this lens, don’t be fooled.
With a bit of practice, this lens can produce some truly amazing results.
Specifications:
Opteka 420-800mm f/8.3 HD Telephoto Zoom Lens for Canon EOS
| Brand | Opteka |
|---|---|
| Lens Type | Zoom |
| Compatible Mountings | Canon EF |
| Camera Lens Description | 800mm |
| Maximum Focal Length | 800 Millimeters |
| Aperture | f/8.3-16 |
| Filter Size | 62mm |
| Optics | 4 Elements in 2 groups Multi-coated Glass Optics |
| Construction | All-metal lightweight body |
| Minimum Focus Distance | 5.25 feet (1.6 meters) |
| Features | Rotating Tripod Mount, Built-in tripod collar, Knurled focus ring, Protective lens pouch |
To get the most out of it, you’ll want to use a tripod and a remote shutter, and set your camera to manual mode.
The lens itself is made of high-quality materials that make it both durable and lightweight, and it comes with a rotating tripod mount and a protective lens pouch.
With the optional Opteka 2x converter, you can even double the focal length to 840-1600mm.
While there are some minor complaints about the lens, including a bit of purple fringing and some distortion in the viewfinder, overall this is a great product that’s well worth the investment.
Pros:
- Advanced lens for less
- Powerful lens
- Easy to pack and travel with
Cons:
- No autofocus
- Tripod needed
- Remote shutter suggested
- Some purple fringing on max zoom
- Focus ring hard to use
If you’re an amateur or even serious photographer, but you have a budget to consider, then this lens is for you.
It packs a powerful punch and is ideal if you plan to take photos of stationary birds up in a cliff.
8. JINTU – Telephoto Zoom Camera Lens for Canon
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
With a solid metal construction and high-definition image quality, this lens is lightweight and easy to carry around.
While it may be completely manual, with no autofocus or image stabilization, it’s perfect for the wildlife photographer who wants to be hidden while taking photos of their subject.
It may be slow with a minimum F-stop of 8.3 at 420mm and 16 at 800mm, but with the right settings and a tripod, it’s possible to capture breathtaking shots of birds in flight.
Product Specifications:
Best Bird Photography Lens
| Specification | Description |
|---|---|
| Brand | JINTU |
| Focal Length | 420-800mm |
| Lens Type | Medium Telephoto |
| Compatible Mountings | Canon EF, Canon EF-S |
| Auto Focus | No |
| Image Stabilization | No |
| Minimum F-Stop | 8.3 at 420mm, 16 at 800mm |
| Material | Full metal body |
| Dimensions | 10.6 x 3.5 x 3.5 inches |
| Weight | 700g (1.8 lb) |
| Warranty | 2 years |
The lens’s lock ring for the telephoto can be locked anywhere on the barrel, and the foot is sturdy.
The pros include its solid metal construction, lightweight, high-definition image quality, and an affordable price, while the cons are the lack of autofocus and image stabilization and the slow F-stop.
Pros:
- HD multi-coating
- Fairly inexpensive
- Impressive optics
- Light enough to use without a tripod
Cons:
- Manual mode only
- Tripod suggested
- Remote shutter recommended
The JINTU 420-800mm f/ 8.3-F16 Telephoto Zoom Camera Lens is a skillful inexpensive telephoto lens wonderful for wildlife photography.
Final Thoughts: Which Product Is The Best?
It’s clear to see that you have a world of lenses to pick from to take your passion for bird photography a step forward.
Which is best, largely depends on you – and your budget. But if we’re pressed to choose a winner from the list above, the Sigma 150-600mm 5-6.3 Contemporary DG OS HSM Lens for Nikon wins hands down.
Last update on 2023-05-27 / Commissions Earned / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
It has some impressive specs, but more than that has been tried and tested by various wildlife photographers who have given it their nod of approval.
Also, it would be amiss to ignore the fact that it comes with image stabilization. Something that even the most amateur of photographers knows plays a vital role in the quality of your images.
Best Bird Photography Lens: Things to Consider When Shopping
When it comes to bird photography, the quality of the lens can make a significant difference in the outcome of your images.
With so many options on the market, it can be overwhelming to choose the best bird photography lens.
Here are some factors to consider when shopping for the ideal lens for your bird photography needs.
Prime or Zoom Lens: Which One Is Better?
The first thing to consider when shopping for a bird photography lens is whether to choose a prime or zoom lens.
A prime lens has a fixed focal length, which means it doesn’t zoom in or out.
In contrast, a zoom lens allows you to zoom in and out to adjust the focal length.
Prime lenses typically offer better image quality, as they have fewer moving parts and a wider aperture, allowing more light into the lens.
Zoom lenses are more versatile, as they offer a range of focal lengths in one lens.
If you’re on a budget or want more versatility, a zoom lens might be the better option.
If you’re willing to invest in a higher-quality lens, a prime lens might be the way to go.
Focal Length: How Far Can You Reach?
The focal length of a lens determines how far away you can be from the subject while still capturing a sharp, detailed image.
For bird photography, a longer focal length is generally better. A lens with a focal length of at least 300mm is ideal for capturing birds from a distance.
If you’re serious about bird photography, you might consider investing in a lens with a focal length of 400mm or more.
However, keep in mind that a longer focal length also means a heavier and bulkier lens.
Focusing Speed: Capture the Action
Birds move quickly, so focusing speed is crucial when capturing them in action.
Look for a lens with a fast and accurate autofocus system that can keep up with the movement of your subject.
Manual focus can also be helpful, as it allows you to fine-tune the focus to your exact specifications.
However, manual focus can be more challenging to master and might not be as quick as autofocus.
Aperture: Let There Be Light
The aperture of a lens refers to the size of the opening that lets light into the lens.
Wider Aperture
A wider aperture (indicated by a lower f-number) allows more light into the lens, which is helpful in low-light situations.
A wider aperture also creates a shallower depth of field, which can create a more artistic, blurred background effect.
However, a wider aperture also means a shallower depth of field, which can make it more challenging to keep the entire bird in focus.
A narrower aperture (indicated by a higher f-number) creates a larger depth of field and can be helpful when trying to capture a sharp, detailed image of a bird.
Weight: How Much Can You Carry?
Finally, consider the weight of the lens when shopping for the best bird photography lens.
Longer focal lengths and wider apertures generally mean heavier lenses, which can be a challenge to carry around all day.
A lens with image stabilization can help reduce the impact of camera shake and make it easier to carry a heavier lens. However, image stabilization also means a higher price point.
Consider your budget, physical ability, and shooting conditions when choosing the weight of your bird photography lens.
What Kind of Lens Do You Need for Bird Photography?
When it comes to bird photography, you need a lens that can capture images of these fast-moving creatures from a safe distance.
Ideally, you should go for a telephoto lens that allows you to zoom in and get a closer look at your subjects.
This is important not only for your safety but also to avoid disturbing the birds and their habitats.
What is the Minimum Focal Length for Bird Photography?
The minimum focal length for bird photography is 300mm.
This will allow you to capture the birds from a safe distance without disturbing them.
A 400mm lens is even better as it gives you more flexibility in terms of composition and allows you to capture birds that are farther away.
However, keep in mind that longer focal lengths can be heavier and more expensive.
Is a Bigger Photographic Lens Always Better?
Not necessarily.
While bigger lenses may have better optics and allow for more reach, they can also be heavier and more cumbersome to carry around.
Additionally, larger lenses are usually more expensive, making them less accessible to the average photographer.
It’s important to find a lens that balances your budget, needs, and preferences.
Teleconverters
Teleconverters are accessories that attach to your lens and increase its effective focal length.
They can be a cost-effective way to extend your reach, allowing you to capture distant subjects without having to invest in a new lens.
However, teleconverters also come with some trade-offs, such as reduced image quality, slower autofocus, and decreased light-gathering ability.
Teleconverters in Practice
In practice, teleconverters can be a great tool for bird photography.
By attaching a 1.4x teleconverter to a 400mm lens, for example, you effectively increase the focal length to 560mm.
This can be a game-changer when it comes to capturing birds that are farther away.
However, it’s important to test your combination of lens and teleconverter to ensure that the image quality is satisfactory and that autofocus speed is not significantly impacted.
What To Look For When Buying A Lens For Bird Photography?
When selecting a lens for bird photography, the adequate focal length is the most important thing to look for.
This will be shown as either a fixed measure (400mm) or as a range (150mm-600mm) on the lens.
For excellent photos of birds, you will need a lens 300mm or higher; the higher the focal length, the easier to spot the bird.
Although a high focal range is vital for bird photography, quality autofocus and IS systems, as well as the glass properties of the lens also play a role.
Budget
You must be thinking about the price, right? Here are some price points and what you can expect.
$500-$1000
- Minimal focal length (300mm or less)
- Low-quality glass elements
$1000-$3000
- Focal length ranging from 150mm to 600mm
- Glass elements of better quality
- Lens will offer better autofocus and stabilizing capabilities
$3000 and higher
- Professional grade
- Finest glass elements
- Best autofocus motors
- Top IS systems
If you’re working within a certain budget, make a list of lenses in your price range and then assess which lens is the best quality for money.
Of course, you will want to purchase a brand that is compatible with your camera, so keep that in mind when deciding.
FAQs About Best bird photography lens
What type of lens is best for bird photography?
Telephoto lenses are the best option for bird photography as they can magnify the bird’s image and allow you to capture them from afar. These lenses are available in both prime and zoom versions.
Is 400mm enough for bird photography?
Yes, a 400mm lens is suitable for bird photography, especially for birds that are not too small or far away. However, you may need a longer lens for birds that are farther away or more difficult to approach.
What lens length for bird photography?
The ideal lens length for bird photography depends on the type of birds you want to capture and the distance between you and the bird. Generally, lenses in the range of 400-600mm are suitable for bird photography.
Is a 200mm lens good for bird photography?
A 200mm lens is not ideal for bird photography, as it does not provide enough magnification to capture small or distant birds. A longer lens is recommended for bird photography.
Is 600mm enough for bird photography?
Yes, a 600mm lens is suitable for bird photography, as it provides enough magnification to capture small or distant birds.
Is 800mm enough for bird photography?
Yes, an 800mm lens is more than enough for bird photography, as it provides a significant amount of magnification and allows you to capture even the smallest or most distant birds.
Is 70-300mm lens good for bird photography?
A 70-300mm lens is not the best option for bird photography, as it does not provide enough magnification to capture small or distant birds. However, it can be used for larger birds that are closer.
Is 75-300mm lens good for bird photography?
A 75-300mm lens is not the best option for bird photography, as it does not provide enough magnification to capture small or distant birds. However, it can be used for larger birds that are closer.
Is 300mm enough for bird photography?
A 300mm lens may be suitable for bird photography in certain situations, such as when the birds are large or closer to the photographer. However, a longer lens is generally recommended for bird photography.
Is 8x or 10x magnification better for birding?
The magnification required for birding depends on various factors, such as the bird’s size and distance from the photographer. Generally, a magnification of 8x to 10x is suitable for birding.
Is 70-200mm lens good for bird photography?
A 70-200mm lens may be suitable for larger birds that are closer to the photographer, but it does not provide enough magnification to capture small or distant birds. A longer lens is recommended for bird photography.
Is 55-200mm lens good for bird photography?
A 55-200mm lens is not the best option for bird photography, as it does not provide enough magnification to capture small or distant birds. However, it can be used for larger birds that are closer.
Final Thoughts on Choosing The Best Bird Photography Lens:
There you have it, eight of the best bird photography lenses of 2023.
We’ll leave you to do some more research before you decide on a lens and head out into the wild.
