Best Lenses for Wildlife Photography (2025 Buyer’s Guide)
If you're serious about wildlife photography, choosing the right lens is just as important as the camera you shoot with. Whether you're stalking whitetail deer in the woods or tracking birds in flight, reach, speed, and sharpness all play a role in getting the shot.
In this guide, we break down the best lenses for wildlife photography in 2025 across a range of price points and camera brands.
What to Look for in a Wildlife Lens
Focal Length: For most wildlife, you’ll want at least 400mm. Longer is better unless you’re working in close range.
Autofocus Speed: Animals don’t wait for your lens to catch up. Fast, accurate autofocus is critical.
Stabilization: Especially important when shooting handheld or in low light.
Weight: You’ll be hiking, climbing, crouching — lighter glass matters.
Aperture: f/4–f/5.6 is ideal for letting in enough light while maintaining manageable size and cost.
Top Wildlife Lenses by System
Nikon (Z Mount)
Nikon Z 400mm f/4.5 VR S
A sharp, lightweight prime that balances reach with portability. Weather-sealed and tack-sharp wide open.
[Full Information and Specs]
Nikkor Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
Flexible, professional-grade zoom with fast AF and excellent image quality across the range.
[Full Information and Specs]
Canon (RF Mount)
Canon RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1L IS USM
A pro-level zoom with impressive sharpness, durable build, and excellent stabilization. Perfect for Canon mirrorless shooters.
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Canon RF 600mm f/11 IS STM (Budget pick)
Yes, f/11. But it’s featherweight, surprisingly sharp, and extremely affordable for that kind of reach. The major drawback is the aperture at f/11, but for the price it may work for a beginner.
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Sony (E Mount)
Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G OSS
Probably the best all-around wildlife lens for Sony. Internal zoom, fast AF, and unbeatable value in this range.
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Sony FE 600mm f/4 GM OSS (High-End Pick)
If budget isn't an issue, this is Sony’s king of wildlife glass. Ideal for safaris, birders, and working pros.
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Third-Party Options
Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Contemporary
Affordable, reliable, and available for Canon, Nikon, and Sony. Great for beginners looking to extend their reach.
[Full Information and Specs]
Tamron 150-500mm f/5-6.7 Di III VC VXD (Sony E)
Compact, versatile zoom for Sony shooters. Impressive stabilization and detail for the price.
[Full Information and Specs]
Final Thoughts
Your lens defines your range and your style. Are you a sit-and-wait telephoto sniper or a walk-and-stalk zoom shooter? Either way, investing in a sharp, fast wildlife lens will change the game.
If you’re looking for editing tools too, check out my Wildlands Lightroom Presets — built for wildlife tones, contrast, and clarity.
