RedBaron4730

Now that I have an early fathers_day gift of a D500 and spending the last 4 days playing with it, I've noticed I am not getting as sharp of a picture I'd like of birds in flight. They are blurry for the most part in using a Nikon 70-300 mm lens. Most of my D500 settings have been at 1/1000 to 1/4000 of a second so i would think I'd get a sharp pic. I thought reviewing YouTube videos on D500 Wildlife photography would give the user suggestions on technique, but haven't seen one yet. Setting the D500 controls yes, but not techniques. Thus, I am seeking advice or resources where I may improve the quality of the pic.
Thanks
Best Regards,
Ron
mailto: rspahr1@twc.com

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

Post a few examples and store the original. You'll get relevant and actionable feedback based on actual images, rather than generic best practices. Alternatively, consult the resources at Steve Perry's site: https://backcountrygallery.com/

via the lens Loc: Northern California, near Yosemite NP

I have shot a lot of wildlife, including BIF. Assuming you have the camera controls set correctly, I most often use f/5.6 (wide open) on my long lens, a Nikon 200-500 and now a Nikon 500mm PF, my ISO set up high enough to get a fast shutter speed (depends on the speed of the subject) or set at a controlled auto-ISO (best done using manual), then the rest is on your ability to seek and track. You did not say hand-held or tripod? If a tripod it must be a sturdy tripod rated for the weight of your gear. I use a ballhead and sidekick, the sidekick allows me to move the camera fluidly. I put my hand on top of the lens to steady it. When hand-holding I keep my elbows tucked into my sides firmly to act as a tripod and I move my body very fluidly to follow the bird, moving from the waist up. Sometimes, if possible, I'll use a tree or post to help steady me. It's about being as steady as possible. I support the lens, hand-held, from the bottom as I move it. I'm also always watching the bird flight patterns. I pick a bird or a set of birds to shoot and stick with the birds from start to stop. I set the camera button to take multiple shots so I can do that if needed. It does take some practice and sadly some people never can master this skill. You need to have a steady hand in order to get sharp shots of birds in flight. Practice.

kpmac Loc: Ragley, La

I agree with Paul. Post some images so we can review them.

CO

I have two D500's I use a Nikon 80-400mm AF-S lens on one of them. Are your photos blurry because of camera shake or is it a focusing problem? If you're not sure about which focus point(s) were active, you can download Nikon Capture NX-D and View NX-i from Nikon's website. Turn on "Show Focus Point". Upload one of your photos here. Be sure to check the "Store Original" box.

FTn

You may want to read Steve Perry's ebook Secrets To The Nikon Autofocus System. There are many different focus menu settings on the D500 and Steve goes into them in detail. You also may want to check out his videos on YouTube.

- FTn

RedBaron4730

Thank you all for your reply. I will get the pics uploaded this evening after I get off of work.

BassmanBruce Loc: Middle of the Mitten

It takes a bit of luck and a little planning, try setting up where you think they will hang out with the wind and sun at your back. Birds like to land and take off into the wind. Their speed relative to you and your camera will be slower than if they are traveling down wind.
Of coarse early and late light are often best.
Most of all have fun.

RedBaron4730

Thanks BassmanBruce. Will certainly heed your advice.

steve L Loc: Waterville Valley, New Hampshire

Stick with Schteve !!!