R.G. Loc: Scotland

Up to a point a steady hand is a requirement, but it doesn't have to be tripod-steady. The layers can be aligned in PP so the only thing the unsteadiness may affect is the framing. It would be a good idea to shoot slightly wide for this technique to allow for the loss round the edges that aligning will cause. The loss of resolution due to cropping will not be an issue, even with a relatively low resolution sensor.

According to the linked video above, the unsteadiness is a good thing because it's giving you the equivalent of random pixel shifting. But you wouldn't want it to be extreme.

I would love to be the owner of a Sony A7 iii or some such, but as you say, it's not the cheap option. For me that would be a second hand pro level DX Nikon because I could then use the lens that I have already - a 16-85, which I am pleased with and which does most of what I want. The D7200, D7500 and the D500 can all give FF cameras a good run for their money. And with the right techniques the gap all but disappears......

As far as your own choice of lenses goes, if you think you can do without f/2.8, the f/4 versions of the lenses are often every bit as good, or so close as to make no significant difference. You don't really need f/2.8 for landscapes, but I can see why you might want a brighter/faster lens for birds. I think you'll find that birds and other wildlife require a proper telephoto lens (not cheap!!).

Heather Iles Loc: UK, Somerset

Keep a look out for a secondhand camera but not from the USA as I purchased a Pentax from someone on UHH and incurred Import Tax. I am keeping my Pentax as a backup camera.

Thanks for the information on the lenses. I will bear what you said in mind. I don't suppose I will purchase a lens until nearer the end of the year. I will PM you regarding the lenses should I need any help with what I choose as I must get it right for me. There is no point in having an expensive lens that is not used much, so I might have to make a choice between Landscape or Birds, but I somehow think that it will be Landscape as that is what I do most.

R.G. Loc: Scotland

I would probably buy through an established second hand camera dealer. The down side is I risk a severe attack of GAS whenever I browse those sites . So much desirable stuff, and the prices are so reasonable .

I can point you in the right direction, but if you post a query in the Main section you'll get feedback from people who've owned the lenses they'll suggest. My opinion is based on what I read and see. Having said that, the 24-105 f/4 sounds like it would be a good fit for your needs . And what if you keep one of your other cameras (e.g. the Pentax) for birds or wildlife. You might find that you can get a reasonable telephoto lens without having to pay silly money for it. And because it isn't your primary interest it shouldn't worry you that it's not the best of the best. You don't say what other cameras you have, but if one of them is a good crop sensor camera, its telephoto lenses will be significantly smaller and lighter (and probably cheaper) than the full frame equivalent.

Heather Iles Loc: UK, Somerset

My other camera is the Pentax K50 and I have most of the lenses for that including a Macro Lens and will keep that camera as my backup. I must say that the Sony has spoilt me as it is so fast and sharp. I have been reading reviews on the telephoto lenses and I am surprised at what they do including what I am interested in. Thanks for your input I now know more about the different lenses and will bear it all in mind before deciding what to do.

R.G. Loc: Scotland

You're welcome.