Getting closer

[woody12]

Hi, getting into wildlife photography with the wife and shooting with my 55-300mm nikon lens. That's where the problem is through, the lens is limited me with some shots because of the reach and I'm forever shooting at the soft end 300mm. Can I get extension tubes to get further and what is the cost and what quality will I get. Shooting with my nikon 3100, the obvious answer would be a new longer lens - but at what cost? Stupid question but if anybody could give me some options be lovely.

 

[arclight]

Not extension tubes, Paul. They permit the lens to be very close to the subject and achieve focus. You will find that with your 55 - 300 lens you not be able to focus on anything more than a few feet away.
Your options are 1. another lens (e.g. The Sigma 150 - 500mm)
or 2. a teleconverter (none of the Nikon T/C work with your 55-300). You need to be careful that the converter can safely couple to your lens otherwise damage can occur). T/C's also have an adverse effect on the max f stop you can use and on very dull days may become unusable.
Option 1 is far from cheap.

One other possibility that costs only time and effort. Learn about your subject with the aim of stealthily getting closer.

Best of luck (wildlife photography can be very frustrating)

 

[woody12]

Thanks Dougie, I think I start crawling through the undergrowth in practise lol. Seriously, stick to what I got till cash available and learn how to stalk my prey.

 

[arclight]

Thanks Dougie, I think I start crawling through the undergrowth in practise lol. Seriously, stick to what I got till cash available and learn how to stalk my prey.

I think that you will find that no matter what kit you have getting close will always be important. Good luck