What To Know
- When it comes to wildlife photography, the choice of camera can make a significant difference in the quality of your shots.
- The Nikon D850 is a more expensive camera than the D500, but it also offers a wider range of features and capabilities.
- The D500 is a great value for wildlife photographers who are looking for a high-performance camera at a more affordable price.
When it comes to wildlife photography, the choice of camera can make a significant difference in the quality of your shots. Two of the top contenders in this field are the Nikon D850 and D500. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but they also have their own unique strengths and weaknesses. In this comprehensive guide, we will compare the Nikon D850 vs D500 for wildlife photography, helping you make an informed decision about which camera is the best fit for your needs.
Sensor and Resolution
The Nikon D850 boasts a full-frame 45.7-megapixel CMOS sensor, while the D500 features an APS-C 20.9-megapixel CMOS sensor. The larger sensor size of the D850 provides several advantages. It offers a wider dynamic range, allowing you to capture more detail in both highlights and shadows. Additionally, the higher resolution enables you to crop your images more aggressively without sacrificing image quality.
Autofocus Performance
Autofocus speed and accuracy are crucial for capturing sharp wildlife shots. The D850 utilizes a sophisticated 153-point autofocus system, while the D500 has a 155-point autofocus system. Both cameras offer excellent autofocus performance, but the D500 has a slight edge in speed and tracking capabilities. This is particularly beneficial for capturing fast-moving animals or birds in flight.
Burst Shooting Speed
For wildlife photography, the ability to capture a burst of images at high speeds is essential. The D850 can shoot up to 9 frames per second (fps), while the D500 can shoot up to 10 fps. Both cameras offer a buffer capacity that allows you to capture multiple shots in succession without any lag. However, the D500’s faster burst rate gives it an advantage when shooting fast-paced action.
ISO Performance
High ISO performance is crucial for capturing wildlife in low-light conditions. The D850 has a native ISO range of 64-25,600, expandable to 102,400. The D500 has a native ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable to 1,640,000. While the D500 offers an incredibly high maximum ISO, the D850 delivers better image quality at high ISO settings. This means you can shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing too much detail or introducing excessive noise.
Lens Compatibility
Lens compatibility is an important consideration when choosing a camera for wildlife photography. The D850 is compatible with Nikon’s full range of F-mount lenses, including both DX and FX lenses. The D500 is compatible with Nikon’s DX lenses. While this may seem like a limitation, DX lenses are designed specifically for APS-C sensors and often offer better optical performance than FX lenses on an APS-C camera. Additionally, the D500’s crop factor of 1.5x allows you to effectively increase the reach of your lenses.
Ergonomics and Handling
When shooting wildlife, you want a camera that is comfortable to hold and operate. Both the D850 and D500 are well-built cameras with durable construction. The D850 is slightly larger and heavier than the D500, but it offers a more ergonomic grip and better button placement. The D500 is more compact and lightweight, making it easier to carry around for extended periods.
Price and Value
Price is an important factor to consider when choosing any camera. The Nikon D850 is a more expensive camera than the D500, but it also offers a wider range of features and capabilities. The D500 is a great value for wildlife photographers who are looking for a high-performance camera at a more affordable price.
Final Thoughts
Both the Nikon D850 and D500 are excellent cameras for wildlife photography. The D850 offers a full-frame sensor, higher resolution, and better high ISO performance. The D500 offers faster autofocus, a higher burst rate, and a more compact and lightweight design. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your specific needs and budget.
What People Want to Know
Q: Which camera is better for capturing fast-moving wildlife?
A: The Nikon D500 has a faster autofocus system and higher burst rate, making it better suited for capturing fast-moving wildlife.
Q: Which camera has better image quality at high ISO?
A: The Nikon D850 delivers better image quality at high ISO settings, allowing you to shoot in low-light conditions without sacrificing too much detail or introducing excessive noise.
Q: Which camera is more versatile for different types of wildlife photography?
A: The Nikon D850 is more versatile for different types of wildlife photography due to its full-frame sensor and wider compatibility with F-mount lenses.
