Why I Keep Reaching for the RF 100–500 Even With the 200–800 in My Bag
Canon RF 100–500mm f/4.5–7.1 L IS USM review — real-world wildlife photography, not lab charts.
Some lenses impress on paper. Others earn your trust in the field over years.
In this real-world wildlife photography video, I share my long-term experience with the Canon RF 100–500mm — the telephoto zoom I keep reaching for, even after adding the RF 200–800 to my kit.
From airshows in Australia and the UK, puffins on the Farne Islands, red kites over Marlow, to everyday wetland wanders near Melbourne, this lens has become my constant companion for handheld shooting — thanks to its balance, predictable autofocus, strong image stabilisation, and consistently beautiful results.
No boring test charts here. Just honest thoughts on:
• Real-world versatility
• Handling and balance over long sessions
• Autofocus confidence in clutter
• Extender quirks
• Why this lens still feels right after hours in the field
If you’re into wildlife photography, bird photography, nature videography, or deciding between Canon’s RF telephoto options, this is for you.
If you enjoyed my RF 200–800 review (linked below), this video adds important context.
📌 Related Videos
▶️ RF 200–800 Review: • Canon RF 200–800mm Review Is This the Ul...
▶️ Puffins on the Farne Islands (World In Focus): • 🐧 EPIC Puffin Photography on the Farne Isl...
⏱ Chapters
00:00 – Why This Lens Matters to Me
00:35 – My Journey with the RF 100–500
01:05 – Airshows & Early Learning
01:56 – Puffins on the Farne Islands
02:55 – Red Kites from the Garden
04:20 – Out in the Wetlands Today
06:35 – Shooting Style & Slow-Motion Notes
07:07 – Not a Comparison… But Context
08:26 – Balance & Handling Magic
09:34 – Predictability Over Perfection
10:38 – Versatility & Staying in the Moment
11:32 – Autofocus Confidence (Even in Clutter)
13:32 – Sharpness, Colour, IS & Real-World Results
14:46 – Price, Extender Quirks & Macro Bonus
17:10 – The Joy of Wildlife Photography
20:57 – Final Thoughts & Why I Still Choose It
What do you think of the RF 100–500?
Do you own it, or are you considering it? I read every comment.
If this resonated, give it a 👍, subscribe for more real-world wildlife photography, and hit the bell 🔔 so you don’t miss future uploads.
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