nikon 500 vr vs t/c

[stuart wanuck]

any comments on the use of t/c 1.4 or 1.7x with this lens either tripod mounted or hh thanks

[Pedro Serralheiro]

I have used extensively this lens with TC's (all 3, from 1.4 to 2.0, just waiting my new TC2III).

All Tc's reduce IQ, so be aware of that, the bigger the worst (Arthur Morris suggest a 10% loss with a 1.4 and a loss of 28% with the 2).

1.7 and 2 will need good light to be able to focus at all. Expect a slower focusing lens.
Tripod, at least for me, is mandatory with any TC, even with a naked 500, if I want a professional sharp photo.
Not a lens issue with Nikon, the TC's have same sample variation, so try two at least.
On static subjects with little wind, even with stacked TC's (I know I'm crazy) I can produce some really goods photos. With movement things get worse, and in flight forget, at least with 1.7TC.
Here's my main setup with these TC's:
1.4 open or 1 stop
1.7 at least 1 stop
2 always 1 1/2 stop, the ore the better (light would be the problem)

Crank your ISO, because I prefer same noise to blurred photos.
Regarding VR I got a mix feeling, but normally is turned off.

[allanrube]

I have the 600 vr - I use the 1.4 and 1.7. I had the 2.0 version 2 but did not like the IQ.

[Oscar Zangroniz]

I just got the new 2x III tc and posted some shots with my 500vr on eager to learn.
2/18/2010 Wood Stork Portrait
2/16/2010 Spooney
2/15/2010 Another post with the new Nikon 2x III tc
2/15/2010 New Nikon 2x III test

Let me know what you think.
regards,
Oscar