thanks for the replys will wait til fall

sorry yep did that also

Ok Ive tried everything so now turning to UHers...probably should have started here ...shooting D500 with 500mm pf everything fine ....change lens to 70-200 all fine .....put 500mm back on and wont focus....focus limiter on full...using bbf for group and pv button for single point.... try each several times pointing at different distances ...turn camera off....back on still wont focus...then all of a sudden starts working ....

thank you to all...guess Im over thinking

So i just adjusted images via topaz denoise and sharpen...look good ....but why did I have to....if settings are as they should be are the issues that need denoise and sharpen technique?????

thanks everyone ...going to follow ALL of the recommendations and im sure ill get it right ...again thank you

thanks Ill do that ...should have done it with post

I have an issue with my D500 and a 200-500mm lens...situation that I c here a lot but getting frustrated....I have read all of Steve Perry's books cover to cover and shoot and shoot manual at various apertures and shutter speeds with auto iso....and AP from time to time...with and without tripod and still get soft images at various/all distances.....Im sure its me but any advice would be welcomed ....don't mind snippy and condescending remarks they might help

This is my first post, continued and will be edited this time....i need some opinions and since Ive been reading for a long time Im sure that wont be difficult ....traveling to Yosemite in March from Maryland and don't want to over do gear...I have several great lens for my d500 and seem to keep coming back to the 18-200mm 5.6 and a 35mm...am I short changing myself ...suggestions ????