Nikonman44

to be honest that looks more like camera movement.

Vibration control might not of been clicked on.

The words on the signs seem to be the biggest issue and they were not moving but you or the camera might of been.

Looks like you used existing light which was pretty good If that shot had been flash the horse and rider would of been upset (just kidding).

It really does look like camera movement.

Just a guess though

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

Tommy - my first reaction was it looks like vibration, but you also have some color fringing going on - seen clearly in the passing pickup truck at the top. I would get the lens looked at, if I were you. Hope you looked at my replacement recommendations. You might be able to find something there, to suit your needs.

tommystrat Loc: Bigfork, Montana

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tommystrat Loc: Bigfork, Montana

I did see your recommendations, and I will start doing my research on these suggestions. And now I know I won't be getting a 2.8 tele lens for $500!! :-)

tommystrat Loc: Bigfork, Montana

Vibration control was on (I double checked that) but I still might have moved a bit... Thanks for your input and assistance!

Rich1939 Loc: Pike County Penna.

From the data it looks like you were shooting at 1/320 which would be right on the cusp for 300mm.
And you might have 'stabbed" at the shutter button when the gate opened. Been there done that! You want to get that first buck and punch instead of squeeze.
Most 'X' to 300 zooms tend to go down hill at the long end but this is more than a lens characteristic, most likely movement because of technique or nerves.

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

No, Tommy ... you can't get a f2.8 Medium Zoom Lens new for under $500, but you might be able to find a used one still in fairly good nick - try KEH, or Adorama. As far as a new lens - all of those Tamrons I mentioned should fare you well. The Sigma you won't be able to buy new for under $500, but a refurbished one should work out for you. As far as used ones - I think Adorama has one. Once again, that Tokina is a darned good buy. Again - that lens you have - needs checking out. However, most of the problems depicted there, are due to vibration. Try a more sturdy tripod.

tommystrat Loc: Bigfork, Montana

Thanks for all the responses, everyone! What a great bunch of folks to be so helpful. Much appreciated!

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

Sure, Tommy ... hey - Good Luck on your new lens hunt ....

Motorbones Loc: Fair Oaks, CA

Great shot. I really like the timing of it..

davefales Loc: Virginia

Your attached xmp file is not helpful since we don't have the raw to tune. Great composition, but I wish it were more in focus.

dyximan

Are you sure you need the 2.8 it sounds like you're trying to get birds which are normally outside with plenty of light. And you may not need such a low f-stop number. I used to have a Nikon D 5300 with the kit 55 to 300 lens and got quite a few good shots of birds in flight. That being said I did find the auto focus mechanism to be rather slow you might consider a better focusing system rather than the f-stop

dyximan

Sorry I meant aperture not f-stop

Chris T Loc: from England across the pond to New England

dyximan ... there's a difference? .... coulda fooled me ...

dyximan

My bad I realizeed my mistake after I sent it thanks for the help you hogs are always so helpful and soooooo kind in doing so