200-400VR AF for BIF's VR on or off?

[Marc Mol]

A question for those that have this lens (or perhaps even the 500VR), do you have VR on or off when shooting BIF's handheld?
For myself, the jury is still out as to whether I have conclusive proof that turning VR off really makes for more keepers?
For me, one thing is quite clear in that I don't have anywhere near the same amount of keepers that I managed on my (beloved) now sold 300f/2.8VR.
I'm still on a learning curve when it comes to getting sufficient keepers with my 200-400 handheld for BIF's.
I should mention I'm using it on my D300.
Any help or advice in regards to this is greatly appreciated.

Cheers
Marc

[Desmond Chan]

A question for those that have this lens (or perhaps even the 500VR), do you have VR on or off when shooting BIF's handheld?

On. I think usually it's because I'm either too lazy or don't remember there's a VR switch on the lens :)

For me, one thing is quite clear in that I don't have anywhere near the same amount of keepers that I managed on my (beloved) now sold 300f/2.8VR.

Why so? You turned the VR off when shooting BIF hand-held with that lens?

One thing I do know: it is easier to handle a lighter, shorter 300f2.8.

I'm still on a learning curve when it comes to getting sufficient keepers with my 200-400 handheld for BIF's.

Usually I don't have any except when I'm lucky :o

I should mention I'm using it on my D300

Me too.

[Marc Mol]

[quote=Desmond Chan;209652]

Why so? You turned the VR off when shooting BIF hand-held with that lens?

quote]

Hi Des

I was using VR on my 300 2.8 with good results. It is a prime of course.;)

[Alfred Forns]

HI Marc

I generally don't turn the VR off on my 200-400 because I'm afraid of forgetting to turn it on. Also generally do not hand hold for BIF, will do so as a last result. If you are proficient with a tripod you won't need to be hand holding unless you have specific circumstances. Can give you a couple of instances. For very fast and unpredictable birds ex little green herons at Anhinga Trail I go to hand holding. If walking long distance you might want to leave your tripod and use your lens with a strap.

You can't compare the 200-400 with the 300 2.8 The 2.8 is probably the fastest focusing lens on the planet but at 300 ... if you need longer and use a 1.4X I think it would probably lag behind.

The 300 2.8 is only a pound difference but seems to be a world of difference in handling, much easier than the 200-400 ...maybe the lenght?

I have access to both and use the 200-400 but complement it with a 300 4.0 I feel its a more flexible set up and btw the 300 4.0 works very well with a 1.4X converter. You will also notice a much easier framing and experience a higher keeper rate for BIF.

What is an acceptable keeper rate for BIF? No real answer since it has to do with the bird and conditions. Background and light make a huge difference. Remember to give yourself a chance and set the camera properly. Your 200-400 with the D300 is a great combination and will give outstanding results !!!!

The only way to improve on what you have is adding a 600 VR :)

[Marc Mol]

Background and light make a huge difference

Especially so with the 200-400. Thanks Al, some good points there.

Cheers
Marc

[Marc Mol]

Anyone else with any input or experience with this lens?
All information gladly appreciated.

Cheers
Marc

[david cramer]

I used to have the 200-400, and now have the 500vr. I keep the vr on while handholding unless my shutter speeds will be over 1/1000. Then I switch it off as I think any benefit would be minimal and the potential for minor induced trembles when the vr kicks in aren't worth it.