I used to have the 200-500, but switched to the "Real Beast" of a lens, the Sigma 300-800 f/5.6
This lens makes the 200-500 feel like a bag of cotton. I do keep it attached to a very sturdy tripod with a gimbal head.
Since I'm almost 74 years old, I've been considering renting a pack mule for outings.

I also own the Sigma 300-800. I mount it on a Katana jr Gimbal head, attached to a TR344L Carbon Fiber tripod, both made by Pro Media Gear (Chicago). I use either a D850 or D500 with the 300-800. I have gotten some beautiful bird shots with it, and plan on taking it to Alaska for some work with grizzly bears in Denali National Park. It's a very sharp lens, but its' weight lets you know your packing a "monster lens". To avoid any excessive movement, I attach a 7" monitor to the camera body, for focus checking and composition, and use a wireless remote for shutter release. I'm very happy with the lens, my only wish is that it would have come with a sherpa to tote the monster.

I was stationed in Germany from 1969 thru 1972 and went to Zermatt about 3 times. It doesn't look much different now than it did then. Your 9th shot, looking down the street brings back some wonderful memories of one of the most beautiful towns in Switzerland. I'm sure you enjoyed your time there.

I have a Sigma 300-800 for my D500 & D850. This lens almost needs a sherpa to go along with you. I use a Pro Media Gear TR344L Carbon Fiber tripod with their Katana jr Gimbal Head and these two pieces handle "The Beast" very easily. RRS (Really Right Stuff) has tripods that rival Pro Media Gear. I just prefer PMG construction over all the others.

I spent years doing this type of photo work, and it was many years ago. The one thing that made a great shot, to my liking, was the models facial expressions and smile. You can control lighting, poses, and all the other particulars such as hair lights, etc. But a "Chiseled" smile on a model was a downer for me. Your lady has a 10+ look and smile. That she is just a neighbor, and not a pro model.....work with her as much as you can...you have a winner as a model. All the other stuff will come along with practice and experience. Great Work!!!!!!

Several "Large" photo stores are closing..... The Alaska Camera Shop in Fairbanks is closing. It very likely was the largest photo store in all of Alaska

The minds ability is remarkable. In the late 60's I took a different type of speed reading class (not Evelyn Wood). The average adult reads about 320 words per minute. The instructor in the 5 person class I was in challenged us to teach our brain to view letters as symbols. So my goal was to learn to read a newspaper, book, or anything written....up side down. In 6 months, when the class ended, my reading speed was 890 wpm with a 95.6% comprehension. My reading speed upside down was 427 wpm....faster than the average adult read right side up. I'm 71 and still practice reading in both directions.

A shot that is Above & Beyond!!!!!

Bravo!!!!! Bravo!!!!!

Your friend should consider an FX body to supplement his D500 (DX Format). They are a little pricey, but a D850 is a fantastic partner to a D500. I have both of the Nikon bodies, and at the present time I see no need to upgrade either one. The D500 is their top DX body and the D850 is a shade below the D5. The D850 body can be found used at any of the 4 major vendors: B&H / KEH / MPD / Adorama.

Don't overlook the photo gear made by Pro Media Gear. They make terrific gimbal heads, tripods, ball heads, mounting plates.....actually anything one would need in the still and video arena.
I will admit, they are not cheap. But their quality is second to none.

Carrying the "Beast" is another story. Once this virus stuff dies down, I'll probably be looking to hire 2 teenagers, a truck, and maybe 2 sherpa's for the Alaskan trip.

I also own the Nikon 200-500. Going to Fairbanks, Alaska next year. Plan on getting shots of bears in Denali. Wanted a lens with a lot of reach.....didn't want to try to outrun a Grizzly!!!!

It's a Sigma 300-800 f/5.6 They haven't been made for several years, but if you do enough research you'll probably fine one on B&H or KEH or MPB websites.

Just purchased a Sigma 300-800 for a future Alaska trip. Went out into backyard to try and catch some birds or flowers here in suburban Phoenix.
Shot with a Nikon D850, Pro Media Gear tripod with Katana Jr gimbal head. First time trying birds.......................

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Am very interested in 80-400mm for $ 350.00
Please send photo to: atalacek@nvcc.edu
If it's in good shape....I will buy it!!!!!