Taking flight
This low-level handheld shot of a merlin feeding in the cowslips was taken with the VR mode set to normal, which is intended for static subjects Nikon D850, 1/800sec at f/5.6, ISO 400
When he wasn't using the lens with a monopod, Mike looked around for additional support
Flick a lever on the lens barrel, and the built-in teleconverter is dropped in. This shot of an eagle was captured at 560mm Nikon D850, 1/2000sec at f/5.6, ISO 200
I walk into the café at Hampshire's Hawk Conservancy Trust, the lens I'm carrying immediately draws attention. I'm attending a wildlife workshop, organised by TimeLine Events, and I have with me an AF-S Nikkor 180-400mm f/4E TC1.4 FL ED attached to a D850. It's Nikon's second most expensive lens currently on sale and the company's first telephoto zoom to feature a built-in teleconverter. The cost of the lens is a recurring question and, once I disclose its astronomical price, everyone else agrees there's no excuse not to get some great shots. I'm quick to admit, however, I'm outflight, so I'm thankful to organiser, Neil, who starts proceedings by explaining how to get the best out of the day. He suggests shooting handheld, but I can't bring myself to leave my monopod behind. After all, this is one of the heaviest lenses I've ever used.
