vanderhala wrote:
Yes i have already read a number of threads. This will be our first safari, we had organized this twice before, but had to cancel once of back surgery of my wife and once for Covid. We hope third time is a charm.
1. I already know to take two cameras (D7200 and D3200), batteries and SD cards up the kazoo. Still undecided about monopod and type of camera support (window clamp, bean bag or forget it).
2. Taking my Tamron 100-400mm (4.5-6.3) and Tampon 18-400mm (3.5-6.3), have not decided which lens on which camera (question #1 : makes difference? : probably the 100-400 on the D7200)..
3. I do have 2 other lenses Sigma 30mm 1:1.4 and Meike 85mm 1.8 . (question #2 : would this be helpful if you go out early in the morning while it is still dark and the other lenses might simply not hack it in that little light, versus the extra hassle, weight and need to change lenses for which I have been warned).
4. and finally: I might have considered taking my Tokina for the wide views especially when we will be at Victoria Falls, but it was stolen on my last trip returning from Egypt (see my posts). I had not used it that much. Question #3: is my 18-400 wide enough or is a new Tokina too much money and weight to carry anyway ?
Looking forward to the responses.
Yes i have already read a number of threads. This ... (
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1- Placing your sd cards in your kazoo is not recommended. It can cause pain and may damage the SD cards.
Get a hold of the tour operator and see what kind of vehicles you will be using. That will determine your camera support. And, find out if your safari locations allow off road viewing of the critters. This is KEY. Off road means you could be right up on the animals. Confined to a road means you will be viewing at a distance.
2- I have no idea.
3- For some reason people think an African trip is all about the animals. Then they discover there are people there too! Fascinating cultures and warm people. They saying goes, "one goes to Africa for the animals and returns for the people." I found that to be true. Going to see the Masai or other tribes? Be ready for great people photography. For example, we went to a grade school near Vic Falls. The kids were great.
When we go back to Africa, I have decided to take a few small, cheap point and shoot cameras. When we come across kids, I am going to hand 'em out and tell them to take pics and give me back the cameras. Hopefully I get them back! If not, no biggie... In any event, be ready for people photography. Meaning, you need a more normal lens unless you want to rely on the 18-400.
Low light? Maybe, depending on your location and provider of safari stuff.
4- Yep, I'd take a wide with me. Also, you will see vast expanses of landscape. Be ready.
I could type a lot here, but here are a few things I think are important.
- Don't ever be far from your camera. We were walking to dinner one night and some bush-babies were peeking out at me from a hole in a rotted tree. I had my camera and a flash. Typically flashes are not allowed on safari, but this was in camp and for once in my life, I was ready. I took maybe 20 pics of that critter and it remains one of my favorite photos. I know people cringe when other folks attach a photo, but in this case it does illustrate my point. It captured a nice memory for me.
Remember people photography.
Be as generous as you can. The Africans suffered through Covid like nothing we've experienced here it the US.
I took quite a lot of lens cleaning stuff and it was used. In desert enviorns, I covered my cameras with a nylon bag that was perfect. Each night I cleaned my gear thoroughly.
Unless you are taking astro pics I don't see a reason for a tripod. But it may be a consideration...and maybe the tour operator has a tripod for you to use.
I don't know your cameras, but if they have a custom saving feature, set one up for a potential animal chase..shutter priority, rapid fire, etc. If and when that happens, you want to be prepared by simply switching to C.
If Vic falls is really flowing, your camera is going to get wet. Really wet. Be prepared.
Some tour operators / guides are very accomplished photographers. See if that is true in your case.
Consider getting some photo practice at a zoo. I did't and should have.