Test images with Tokina AT-X840 80-400mm

[DonSchap]

Frank,

With the New Jersey shore moved several feet closer and the surface of the lakes and streams at record levels, there must be some landscape areas that are "picture worthy" for this "once in a lifetime" (yeah, right) rain storm.

[sparkie1263]

Don I took a ride to Long Beach Island and it didn't even look like it rained there. There wasn't too much damage (thank god) in our area. I will be heading north tomorrow for a job so I will bring the camera and try to get some shots. The lens is looking good. I can't wait to get to Florida and get some bird images.

Frank

[sparkie1263]

This bee was about 15 feet away. This was taken handheld.


Frank

[DonSchap]

Is the lens meeting your current expectations? Are you enjoying that bit of additional reach the lens provides?

These shots are definitely looking like they are getting solid-looking bokeh, in my estimation.

Would you say that the α580 and the lens are getting along? I usually have it running with my α700, as the backup combo.

Have you tried any "movie" footage with it, yet?

[sparkie1263]

I haven't tried any movies yet. I am liking the new combo. It took a while to get used to the weight of the lens. I also like the extra reach.

Thanks
Frank

[DonSchap]

One of things I went to, to prevent failure of the SONY (default) camera strap from the additional weight of bigger lenses is the Black Rapid RS-5 Camera strap, which has been discontinued in favor of the newer RS-7. It changes the camera from hanging around your neck, to being able to carry it on a side sling. It is, by far, more comfortable placement on your body and the RS-7 is well padded, too.

I added a Manfrotto Quick Release Base (RC2) to it and I can swap the camera from the strap to the RC2 tripod head in scant seconds. I mean, just in case you are tired of "screwing" around.

[sparkie1263]

One of things I went to, to prevent failure of the camera strap from the additional weight of bigger lenses is the Black Rapid RS-5 Camera strap, which has been discontinued in favor of the newer RS-7.

I added a Manfrotto Quick Release Base to it and I can swap the camera from the strap to the tripod stand in scant seconds.

I did see this. I might have to take a ride to the local camera shop and see if they have one.

Thanks
Frank

[Peekayoh]

There's zero chance that the strap will fail but the comfort and ergonomics of the Black Rapid are irrefutable.

Don, I bet Frank won't want to let that Tokina go.

[DonSchap]

It took me a whole year of looking to find that AT-X 840 (SONY-mount) lens. It wound up coming from Japan. Then I found another one, about three months later, for Sean, and he is still using it.
Bang for the buck, nothing is close.

Anyway, it is good to see it out and getting some mileage.

[sparkie1263]

It will be getting another 2400 miles in a few weeks.

Thanks again
Frank