camera and lens , My own observation

i didn't really realise, until I had my bad fall making one hand not so strong as the other, the importance of having the right balance between camera and lens.
By this I mean and found out that if a heavy lens is on a relatively light camera how much effort goes into supporting one against the other
The tendency is for the heavy lens to want the camera to keep pointing downwards and find always fighting to prevent it. This makes taking photos very tiring hand held.
I found it has made little diffence with a light lens attached so no real problem there.

Personally i prefer working with a heavy camera and lens equally balanced as I can hold them steadier. Yes there is image stablisation as well but this doesn't help if holding a heavy lens up for a period of time.

Just a couple of thought of mine

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

Attach your top heavy camera to a tripod, if you can’t hold it properly yo have little chance of getting a good snap

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

True,but this was more about correct balances than using supports

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

So you buy lighter lens to match the lighter body, or a heavier lens to match heavier body...sounds expensive.

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

Not necessarily ,I did mention a light lens and a heavy body is no problem

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

So you did.

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

AS an example my camera Nikon D800 with Nikon grip (MB-D12) and flashgun (Nikon speedlight SB-900) weigh in at 4,2 lb

The heaviest lens Nikon AF-S 80-400mm f4.5-5.6G ED VR is 3.1 lb

So the balance is not that far out but on the right side ,lens lighter than camera

But try holding nearly 7.5 lb of photographic equipment for any length of time ???? this is where ,as you said a tripod or monopod becomes a must



Looks impressive but a sod to hold still for long

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

Or have hung around your neck

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

yes , now thinking of getting a decent shoulder strap

Re: camera and lens , My own observation

That’s really weird, I have been looking for a quick release neck strap today. I am looking for one in my regimental colours so I posted on the association website.