What is the best handheld portable setup for digital camera for telephoto wildlife and sports photography, without having to get a huge lens which requires tripod. I am guessing 70-200mm 2.8, and for extra reach add a 1.7 teleconverter? I am not sure what else I can do other than paying 6500 dollars for the next steup up which is 200-400mm. Using Nikon D80

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At the wildlife photography contest in the Smithsonian I noticed a large percentage of photographers were using the Nikon D2x. However, that was over a year ago. I suspect many have moved to the Nikon D3 or D3s by now. Both well regarded for build quality, low noise and a very responsive performance. No first hand knowledge though, unfortunately. Regarding the lens, it seems that reach is important to you. Around 350mm based on your converter choice. I would not mess with a zoom for doing wildlife. I have a prime Nikon 300mm f/4D and it is outstanding. Amazing crisp contrast and excellent color fidelity.

If you are serious about wildlife photography then a prime lens would be a better choice, the images will be that much sharper. Unless you are planning panning shots you SHOULD have a tripod or at least a monopod with a head suitable for panning, ask any NG photographer if they use a pod or not.

zoom lenses? teleconverters? no tripod? how serious are you? get a f2.8 300mm or a f4 400mm or there abouts, if your serious use a prime lens and a monopod