Sigma 300-600mm f/4 Hands-On in the Wild – A Kingfisher Adventure with Olle Nilsson

Wildlife photographer Olle Nilsson took the brand new Sigma 300-600mm f/4 DG DN OS Sports Lens out for a two-day field test, aiming to capture lightning-fast kingfishers in action. Key highlights from the video:

  • The constant f/4 aperture delivers exceptional subject separation and low-light performance
  • Sharpness is superb across the 300-600mm range, paired with a Sony A1 for 50MP cropping flexibility
  • Lens is large (~4kg), but surprisingly manageable with its internal zoom and balance
  • Compared to the Sony 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS, the Sigma delivers much stronger subject isolation
  • Faster and more versatile than using a 300mm f/2.8 GM with teleconverter setup in static positions
  • Ideal for hide-based or tripod work – less suited for mobile “sneaking” shoots due to weight

Olle also tested the lens on a Leofoto PG-1 gimbal head and a carbon fiber tripod, which helped stabilize the heavy setup for hours in the field.

His final verdict? While it’s a heavy investment, the Sigma 300-600mm f/4 delivers pro-level results at nearly half the price of a 600mm prime. For those who shoot from a fixed location and value flexibility, sharpness, and beautiful background separation – this is one of the best lenses available.

Gear mentioned:

For those interested in stunning wildlife imagery and want a telephoto workhorse that rivals prime lenses in sharpness and speed – this Sigma might just be the dream lens.

UPDATE: He also posted this new video:

Bobby Tonelli: I Met the Sony A1 II Autofocus Engineer and This Is What He Taught Me

This story really highlights just how powerful Sony Alpha cameras are—far beyond what you might expect. The autofocus system offers an incredible level of customization, and it’s clear that Sony’s engineers have put a great deal of thought and expertise into every detail.

Sony A1II at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, BestBuy, FotoErhardt, FotoKoch, Calumet, WexUK, Clifton, CameraPro. Sony Australia.

Zach Mayfield thoughts about the FX3 & FX30: Are They Still Worthy Investments?

The Sony FX3 and Sony FX30 have now been on the market for years, and recently they got a price hike in the USA because of the new tariffs. Zach Mayfield revisits both to evaluate whether they remain solid choices in 2025 despite the price increase.

Initially, the FX3 was met with confusion by some creators, especially users of the Sony A7S III . It lacked expected cinema features like waveforms or false color. Over time, however, firmware updates and community use have transformed its reputation into that of a dependable workhorse camera in the cinema line.

The Sony FX30 is essentially the APS-C version of the FX3, bringing most of the same specs to a more affordable price point. Zach explains that it became his go-to camera for real estate, gimbal work, and long-form shooting. Despite its crop sensor, the FX30 delivers impressive DCI 4K 24p and UHD 4K up to 120fps (albeit with crop and noise). It also features USB-C live streaming, dual card slots, excellent battery life, and compatibility with the FX3’s top handle.

In terms of competition, Zach highlights the Lumix S5II and S5IIX as impressive alternatives in the same price range, offering full-frame sensors, ProRes options, and solid video features. He also mentions the Canon R6 Mark II , Nikon Z6 III , and Fujifilm X-H2S as other strong contenders, but he still prefers the FX30 for its usability and focused video design.

When discussing the FX3 , Zach admits that he came around to liking it after using it recently. Compared to the FX30, the FX3 offers a full-frame sensor and better low-light performance, though at a significantly higher cost. Alternatives like the Nikon Z8 and Canon R5 Mark II were mentioned but didn’t offer the same seamless video-first experience in his opinion.

Zach is also intrigued by the idea of building a kit with the FX30 , FX3 , and FX6 as A/B/C cameras depending on the shoot. He appreciates the simplicity, reliability, and strong image quality of Sony’s cinema line. If you don’t need open gate or deep anamorphic features, these cameras remain a compelling option.

Overall, his 2025 verdict: the Sony FX30 and Sony FX3 are still worth your money. The FX30 especially stands out as one of the best value cinema cameras available today.

Alex Barrera loves the new Sony RX1rIII because it can go to places where other cameras can’t go!

After all the “hate” let’s also see some positive review of the new Sony RX1rIII. While the camera has faced a mixed reception online, particularly due to its $5,100 price tag, Alex argues that many critics are missing the bigger picture.

The Power of Portability

What sets the RX1 Mark III apart is not just its 61MP full-frame sensor or the Sony 35mm f/2 Zeiss lens—but the fact that all this power fits in a body small enough to slip into a Lululemon fanny pack. For Alex, this meant no camera bag, no sling—just true everyday carry. He took it everywhere: the gym, restaurants, grocery stores, even a nightclub.

This small form factor meant the camera drew zero attention, allowing him to capture moments discreetly in places where larger cameras like his Sony A7CR would have triggered restrictions or suspicion.

While some compare the RX1R III to the Leica Q3 or the Sony A7CR, Alex insists the RX1 stands alone. The Leica may be more polished, but it’s also heavier and bulkier. The A7CR may be more flexible, but it’s not pocketable. The RX1 Mark III offers pro-grade performance in a compact, point-and-shoot-like body, and that’s its magic.

While the price is high, Alex points out that camera prices across the board have increased in 2025. Even the new Ricoh GR IV launched at nearly double the price of its predecessor. Factor in tariffs and inflation, and the RX1’s U.S. pricing isn’t that surprising.

For Alex, the RX1R III is worth it—not just for its specs, but for how it changes the way you shoot. It’s a camera that encourages spontaneity, fits into your life, and gets out of the way—while delivering beautiful results.

Sony RX1rIII in Stock at BHphoto, Amazon, Adorama, Fotokoch, Fotoerhardt, Calumet, WexUK.