Bring a tripod to African safari?
Jan 22, 2023 20:05:39 #
In the Serengeti, Cheetahs aren't too hard to come by, as the guides are constantly chatting with one another -- so many eyes out there looking. Plus, they tend to hunt in open areas so they can get good eyes on their prey, and an eye on their backs for lions. They like elevation, like standing on termite mounds and a couple times on the back of our spare tire. No off roading in the Serengeti, a plus -- but pretty common you will need reach with your lens. The second one was in Ndutu Reserve. Off roading permitted. Both shot with Nikon 500 f5.6 Prime, uncropped. Keep in mind, when you are in that vehicle by yourself, you own it, and the guide works for you. Their job is to find the animals, but you run the show -- where you want to be, angles for your shots, and so on. Typically, when cats are moving, I move out in front of them, sometimes quite a ways away, waiting for their approach. Much better shots as they come toward you -- most of the time it works, sometimes not. Something easily forgotten when in an open top Land Cruiser, GET DOWN on the floor and shoot out the windows. That angle can make/break many shots. Have your guide be set up for that, even if it is just sand bags.
Jan 22, 2023 20:36:44 #
Jan 23, 2023 12:47:44 #
Jack 13088 wrote:
No, it would be more trouble than it’s worth. Also stay away from monster lenses. In LrC I selected all the keepers and used the search to build a histogram and found most between 70 and 200 mm. Keep your kit simple because changing is awkward at best. All drivers I have with are pretty camera savvy and will get you close for a good shot. It is like the old advice don’t waste money on a long lens just buy a car and drive closer.
There is no way on earth that I would go to Africa, or any place else with wildlife opportunities with only a 200mm lens!!! I carried (read actually carried) a 200~500mm zoom. ALL photos were taken with that lens and I often wanted more glass, NOT less. No tripod, ALL hand held, braced when possible. Your "monster" lenses might be some one else's every day go to lens. My 200~500 zoom is my go to lens most of the time. Like 90% of the time! And I use my feet to get closer when that is possible. Full frame, BTW, NOT 4/3. The cropping ability with a 45mp FF sensor is a game changer!!
Jan 23, 2023 16:56:51 #
Amaize wrote:
In the Serengeti, Cheetahs aren't too hard to come... (show quote)
Spectacular captures and quite stunning 🟡🖤🟡🖤🟡
Jan 23, 2023 18:33:08 #
If you want to reply, then register here. Registration is free and your account is created instantly, so you can post right away.