Long lens Technique

[Wazukie]

So I recently purchased a new lens.  I am a poor missionary so I couldnt afford a prime.  i went with the 150-500mm F5-6.3 APO DG OS HSM. I know, not the fastest lens in the world.  I made this decision after talking with people who own it.  I've seen pictures that have been taken with it and it is a capable lens.  I'm new to the long lens world.  So my question is this, do you guys who have 400mm+ lenses, do you normally use a tripod when using them, or do you rely more on the faster shutter speed?

[grandpawrichard]

Wazuki,
For Fantastic shots that are Ultr crisp like Bone always posts, a tripod or a Monopod are actually a must! I use both, or I hand hold, depending on the conditions. I am fortunate to have pretty steady hands, but every chance I get when I am shooting I will brace myself and the camera up against something.

Fast shutter speeds (when possible) are also a great help because it cuts down on the time you have to mess up a shot due to camera jiggle.

Dick

[boneaddict]

Monopod as much as possible. 

[jyerxa]

A rule of thumb I learned with my 35mm years ago was if your are set at 200 mm, the shutter speed should exceed at least 200 ms or faster and likewise at 500 mm 500 ms or faster to hand hold. Anything less, a tripod is a must or monopod. I’ve never used one of those.