Slight anxiety about 500mm f4

[William W]

. . . I have spent a fair bit of money on a number of things including some photography items . . . so I'm being a bit precious in my treatment of them.

Absolutely understandable, hence that's why I articulated my bias: I treat my Piano with kid gloves: my Piano Teacher treats his as a work tool.

In any case, however you choose to fly choose the path that give you the greatest pleasure -

Break a leg.

WW

[Doctor Doog]

I'm like you Wooster, retiring at the end of November and thinking it's now or never for big equipment expenditure. In my case this is also predominantly a big lens. I'm physically fit at the moment, so I'm going for it - you only live once!

[wooster]

I'm like you Wooster, retiring at the end of November and thinking it's now or never for big equipment expenditure. In my case this is also predominantly a big lens. I'm physically fit at the moment, so I'm going for it - you only live once!

That was my philosophy when I ordered this lens. It's now or never!

I've had a wobble or two but I'm reassured as the store are really good and I've used them a lot so they're pretty relaxed about returns if it really doesn't work out. I'm definitely going to try my best though as I've lusted after one for years.

[senojbor]

Any tips for aging photographers?

Thank you

Yes, sell it to me if you don't take to it!
It's a serious bit of kit and good luck to you.
To be honest if I'm speeding that kind of money on a lens it would have to earn me some money!!!
A cheaper option and often better one is to invest in a pop up bird hide and use a fast shorter lens
But I don't blame you for splashing out. It's not too heavy really