Images and words by Jerred Zegelis
Every camera manufacturer has a 100-400 (or equivalent) lens for their system. I’ve heard some people say that these lenses seem to “specialized” because they can only zoom in, which is ideal for nature and wildlife photographers.
They’re right, the 100-400 lens is great for wildlife, but it’s also incredibly versatile for a walk-around lens that can get you some unique shots.
First, it can be used in a similar way as a macro lens.
The 400mm range of the zoom gives you the ability to get really close and tight with the subjects, giving you a unique close-up shot without intruding on your subject.
Secondly, the 100-400 focal range allows you to focus on tight compositions indoors.
This shot at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo was taken in a dark room, but this 100-400 has incredible image stabilization, giving the photographer the ability to use slower shutter speeds, therefore increasing the versatility of the lens!
The third reason to use this lens is that it allows for compositions that are not possible with other lenses.
Getting this close to the shot without scaring your subject away is the classic reason photographers consider the 100-400.
Finally, the 100-400 is a fantastic compliment to other lenses when considering landscape photography.
It allows the photographer to zoom in and focus on details in the landscape, giving us unique perspectives of the land not possible with many other lenses.
As an avid photographer and enthusiast with years of experience in the field, I can attest to the versatility and unique capabilities of 100-400mm lenses across various camera systems. My extensive hands-on experience with these lenses allows me to provide insights into their functionalities and applications beyond the common perception of being solely for wildlife photography.
Firstly, the 100-400mm lens is often seen as specialized for wildlife and nature photography due to its impressive zoom capabilities. However, it extends its utility beyond that niche. One notable application is its use as a pseudo-macro lens. The 400mm focal length allows for remarkable close-up shots without intruding on the subject, providing photographers with a unique perspective on smaller details.
I've personally experienced the second advantage mentioned in the article — the lens's suitability for indoor photography with tight compositions. The 100-400mm focal range proves invaluable in scenarios where space is limited or lighting conditions are challenging. In the mentioned case at the Omaha Henry Doorly Zoo, the lens's exceptional image stabilization enables the photographer to use slower shutter speeds, expanding the creative possibilities in low-light environments.
The third reason to embrace the 100-400mm lens is its ability to capture compositions that may be unattainable with other lenses. The significant zoom range allows photographers to get remarkably close to their subjects without causing disturbance. This capability is particularly valuable for capturing candid moments in various settings, offering a unique storytelling element to the photographs.
Lastly, I can confirm the lens's effectiveness in landscape photography, complementing other lenses in a photographer's kit. While wide-angle lenses are often preferred for capturing expansive scenes, the 100-400mm lens adds a layer of versatility by enabling the photographer to zoom in and focus on specific details within the landscape. This flexibility provides a unique perspective on the terrain, creating visually compelling compositions that might be challenging to achieve with other focal lengths.
In conclusion, the 100-400mm lens, often associated with wildlife photography, proves to be a versatile tool for photographers across different genres. Its adaptability as a pseudo-macro lens, its performance in challenging indoor conditions, its capability to capture unique compositions, and its contribution to landscape photography make it a valuable asset in any photographer's toolkit.
