lens choice
Nov 12, 2012 22:25:44 #
I'm going to Tanzania on my first safari and have decided to upgrade from the d80 to the d600. [big jump] I now have to choose the best lens for the trip verses cost. Would appreciate opinions on the merits of the AF-S nikkor 28-300mm f3.5-5.6G ED VR against the AF-S nikkor 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II. Besides the quicker speed of the 2.8 how does the quality and durability of the two measure up? Thanks.
Nov 12, 2012 23:29:29 #
For me 2.8 says it all. The 70-200 is an outstanding lens- one of Nikon's trinity along with the 24-70 2.8 and the 12-24. You cannot go wrong with this lens and Nikon also makes Teleconverters for this lens. Their 1.7 will cost you a stop and a half but give you 115-340mm when you need it. Sounds like a great trip. Would like to see some of the pics you "bag".
Nov 13, 2012 01:10:17 #
The 70 - 200 is the lens. I would buy the 2x multiplier rather than the 1.7. I would like ALL the reach I can get in Africa. I use this lens with my 2x multiplier 80% of the time. I defy anyone to show me any loss in picture quality by using any multipliers with this lens.
Nov 13, 2012 04:26:20 #
Robert01 wrote:
I'm going to Tanzania on my first safari and have decided to upgrade from the d80 to the d600. [big jump] I now have to choose the best lens for the trip verses cost. Would appreciate opinions on the merits of the AF-S nikkor 28-300mm f3.5-5.6G ED VR against the AF-S nikkor 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II. Besides the quicker speed of the 2.8 how does the quality and durability of the two measure up? Thanks.
I would be more concerned with other things too, like spare batteries, charger, cards etc
I have the VR28-300, it is obviously more versatile simply due to the extended range at both ends. And the difference at the 2.8/3.5 end is almost nil, and the same at 200, only at 300 is it less.
Nov 13, 2012 12:49:11 #
JR1 wrote:
quote=Robert01 I'm going to Tanzania on my first ... (show quote)
You bring up a very IMPORTANT issue. Ensure your charger will work on Tanzania's elect system. You may need a transformer/converter.
Nov 13, 2012 14:53:39 #
Most overseas electrical systems are 220 rather than 120 and are 50 hertz as opposed to 60 hertz, therefore a conversions device is needed. They are readily available with various adapters to different systems.
Nov 13, 2012 15:36:59 #
sbesaw
Loc: Boston
Robert01 wrote:
I'm going to Tanzania on my first safari and have decided to upgrade from the d80 to the d600. [big jump] I now have to choose the best lens for the trip verses cost. Would appreciate opinions on the merits of the AF-S nikkor 28-300mm f3.5-5.6G ED VR against the AF-S nikkor 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II. Besides the quicker speed of the 2.8 how does the quality and durability of the two measure up? Thanks.
I am planning a similar trip next year and have a 70-200 2.8 Nikon and a 28-300, as well as 11 other Nikon FX lenses. I will bring the 70-200 with a 1.7 x teleconverter. I am also planning on renting a 500mm or 600mm, still deciding and gathering info from other safari shooters. well worth the cost for a trip you will not be taking yearly. I will use lensprotogo.com for rental but there are others. I just know of a lot of people that have used this outfit.
Nov 13, 2012 17:28:44 #
Robert01 wrote:
I'm going to Tanzania on my first safari and have decided to upgrade from the d80 to the d600. [big jump] I now have to choose the best lens for the trip verses cost. Would appreciate opinions on the merits of the AF-S nikkor 28-300mm f3.5-5.6G ED VR against the AF-S nikkor 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II. Besides the quicker speed of the 2.8 how does the quality and durability of the two measure up? Thanks.
A friend of mine just came back from a safari at Tanzania (Manayara, Ngorongoro Crater, and Tarangire). He talked about the need to have a lens with the longest focal length. He took a Nikon zoom lens that went up to 300mm (can't recall which one specifically), and that still wasn't enough for many shots (and that was with a crop-sensor body). So, unless you plan on using a 1.4X or 2.0X adapter on the 70-200, I would recommend at least the 28-300 on a full-frame body.
Nov 13, 2012 17:41:58 #
What other lenses do you have? If you have some lenses that get you out to say 200. I would look at the Sigma 150-500 for that trip. And doesn't the 600 do DX too?
Erv
Erv
Nov 13, 2012 18:25:27 #
thanks, I'm thinking the same and as well I have the option to rent lenses from one of the staff who is a photographer
Nov 13, 2012 18:27:06 #
Thanks, I'm thinking the same and I can rent a bigger lens from on of the staff, a pro photographer.
Nov 13, 2012 22:03:52 #
thank you, electrical is always a concern. Most electronic wall power adapters that come with the equipment are made overseas and are rated for 100-240v, 50-60 Hz but as you have wisely pointed out it, Must be checked!
Nov 13, 2012 22:07:55 #
Robert01 wrote:
I'm going to Tanzania on my first safari and have decided to upgrade from the d80 to the d600. [big jump] I now have to choose the best lens for the trip verses cost. Would appreciate opinions on the merits of the AF-S nikkor 28-300mm f3.5-5.6G ED VR against the AF-S nikkor 70-200mm 2.8G ED VR II. Besides the quicker speed of the 2.8 how does the quality and durability of the two measure up? Thanks.
Can I house-sit while you're gone! I love Alberta. :D
Nov 15, 2012 09:55:27 #
When I was in Kenya and Tanzania I found that having three sets of batteries was all I needed. I always had a spare battery. All the tented camps that I stayed in had electrical generators. Just take outlet adaptor plugs for the country you plan to visit, especially since most battery charges are dual voltage. Be prepared for lots of dust! Another suggestion is a small bean bag. I used a small bean bag that was my computer mouse bag. It fit right in my vest pocket. Some of the tour vans had bags for their guests. You could also take an empty bag and fill it there. Sure beats taking a tripod. Almost all of your wildlife pictures will be taken from the vehicle where a tripod could not be used. The choice of lens would be more personal. I do recall that a large majority of my picture opportunities of wildlife were taken in bright sun light. I would consider the 2.8 70-200mm with a teleconverter. Less and smaller is easier to travel with. Just wondering what tour group are you using? Mine was OAT.
Nov 15, 2012 11:06:41 #
I'm not sure how heavy it is to carry, but since focal length on a safari is a consideration, you might look at the Sigma 150-500mm.
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