Bird Photography Equipment on a Budget (2024 Update)

July 26, 2024

This article updates my 2015 and 2020 articles, incorporating recent developments in the camera industry. The good news is that the shift by major manufacturers to mirrorless cameras with new lens mounts has created a market rich with bargains for excellent DSLR systems. While the upper-end mirrorless systems bring fast frame rates and subject-detecting autofocus modes, they are expensive. Quite competent DSLR systems can be purchased and used for a fraction of the cost, as many photographers are selling their DSLRs to upgrade to mirrorless systems. The better DSLRs often perform better than the less expensive mirroress systems, so they offer a better path for those wishing to enter bird photography at a lower cost.

Bird photography equipment can be expensive, as capturing small, moving objects requires long telephoto lenses and effective autofocus systems. Beginner bird photographers would be well-served with a good cropped sensor camera body and a 400mm f/5.6 lens or a 300mm f/4 lens with a 1.4x teleconverter. A crop sensor camera is less expensive and more importantly, you can use a smaller focal length lens, saving both weight and money. You can acquire such a system at a reduced price by applying several cost-saving strategies. For Nikon, the D500 is an excellent choice with a 10 FPS frame rate and excellent autofocus, while for Canon, the EOS 7D Mark II is a comparable choice. A used Nikon 300mm f/4 PF lens paired with a TC-14e teleconverter is an excellent prime lens for bird photography with a crop sensor camera at a reasonable price. However, for maximum flexibility, a competent zoom lens such as the Nikon 200-500 or the Canon 100-400 may make more sense for a beginning bird photographer.

Strategies for Reducing Equipment Costs

Several strategies can help reduce the cost of bird photography equipment, including:

1. Buying Refurbished Equipment
2. Buying Last Year's Model
3. Buying Used
4. Buying Grey Market
5. Renting

Buying Refurbished Equipment

Both Nikon and Canon offer refurbished equipment that has been returned repaired and resold. The savings can be significant, and refurbished items often undergo rigorous testing. However, refurbished equipment typically has a shorter warranty, usually 90 days. Make sure to test any refurbished gear thoroughly upon receipt.

Buying Last Year's Model

New mirrorless cameras have made last year's DSLR models more affordable. These older models are often more capable for bird photography, particularly for capturing fast-moving subjects. For example, a refurbished Nikon D7500 for around $700 can be found.

Buying Used

Many photographers sell their older equipment to finance the latest models. As a result, the prices of used camera equipment have dropped significantly. A used Nikon D500 can be found on eBay for approximately $845. However, when buying used, especially from eBay, check seller ratings carefully. Reputable sources like KEH Camera and the department used by B&H Photo Video are often more reliable. The D500 is one of the best Crop Sensor Cameras ever produced, and with its fast frame rate and excellent autofocus, it makes a terrific bird photography camera.

Buying Grey Market

Imported and sold at lower prices, Grey market equipment can be another cost-saving option. However, Nikon and Canon in the US will not honor warranties or service grey market products. For lower maintenance items like teleconverters, grey market purchases might be worth considering if the price is right. However, unless the savings are significant, I recommend against purchasing grey-market cameras or lenses.

Renting Equipment

For one-time needs, such as an assignment or photo tour, renting equipment can be a practical solution. Lens Rentals and Borrow Lenses are two reputable rental companies. Lens Rentals also offers a rent-to-buy option through Lens Authority, allowing you to try the equipment before purchasing it. Ensure you have insurance or purchase protection in case something goes wrong.

Camera Company Deals

Nikon and Canon often run specials that discount older cameras they still have in stock. Always compare these deals with used or refurbished options for the best price.

Highlighted Equipment

Nikon D500 + Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6

• Nikon D500: Used around $845
• Nikon 200-500mm f/5.6: Used around $1100

The Nikon D500, with its exceptional autofocus system and fast shooting speed, combined with the versatile 200-500mm lens, makes an excellent setup for bird photography.

Canon EOS 7D Mark II + Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM

• Canon 7D Mark II: Used around $800
• Canon 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6L IS II USM: Used around $1000

The Canon 7D Mark II offers reliable performance, and when paired with the 100-400mm lens, it provides the reach and quality needed for capturing detailed bird images.

Conclusion

You can now assemble a good beginner's bird photography system with roughly equivalent Canon and Nikon equipment for under $2000.