camerapapi Loc: Miami, Fl.

I do not visit Key West very often although this is the time of year when it is less crowded. Expect around 92 degrees Fahrenheit with high humidity.
As far as I know you should not be watching lots of wildlife so taking your 200-500 f4 VR could easily be a waste of time.

leftj Loc: Texas

Will you have you Band of Renown with you in Key West?

Mike Blythe Loc: Newcastle UK

Just love Key West, great fun place... I would agree with Kmgw9V, I normally have my 16-35 fitted to my kit when there.

AndyH Loc: Massachusetts and New Hampshire

A joke for the senior contingent! Thank you...

Andy

dcampbell52 Loc: Clearwater Fl

Birding in Key West proper is not very easy. If you go to the next several keys up from Key West, it is prevalent. Typically, you would need a ride of some sort to get there and back though. Either rent a car or find a "friend" that would take you (maybe even a fellow photographer). All of the Florida Keys have interesting sites (both nature and man made) to see and photograph. Key West is a lot of fun but, if you get the chance, get out and explore the surrounding keys. Also, there are some okay boat tours …. especially sunsets... but shop around. We lucked out by talking to several of the "venders". We didn't want to take the "normal" bleacher like boat tour and managed to get a couple of seats on a twin mast sailing schooner (it rotates between Key West in the winter and Martha's Vineyard in the summer).. and the second was 12 people (6 couples) on a sailing full cabin catamaran that sailed from one of the "high end" hotels (I think it was a Hyatt but not sure.. had limited access and their own beach)… The cat picked us all up at the hotel's private dock and took us out for the sunset.. had both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages, snacks, sandwiches, shrimp cocktail and a light dinner included.. (think it was about $100 per person but don't remember... it was about $40 per person more than the cattle barge tour). My point start checking for options in the morning or around noon and don't settle until you know what's available.

revhen Loc: By the beautiful Hudson

My trusty 18-135 was plenty enough for visit to Key West.

regularguy55

The Keys are great and the wide angle shots dominate. Very little need for tele over 100. 16-35 would be excellent choice. Enjoy.

old poet

Thanks to all. The wide lens, 18-105 and 55-200 are what I have. No plans for the Dry Tortugas this trip, but you have spurred my wish to go another time. As usual UHHers come through with great advice. Chickens and six toed Hemingway cats it is. :)

old poet

Band of Renown....seems like I've heard that a few times, like about twice a week, but I don't mind. It makes life interesting.

AndyH Loc: Massachusetts and New Hampshire

Yeah, you did have some great hits! I'm a big band guy!

Andy

mborn Loc: Massachusetts

for Key West Tamron 18-400 would be my choice with a Dx camera

wetreed

Your best option would be to pick up a Tamron 18-400. It’s pretty compact and will cover all your photographic needs.

old poet

Wetreed, Good idea, but I've spent all my money on plane and hotel tickets. I'll have to stick with my 18 - 105 I suppose.

Vince68 Loc: Wappingers Falls, NY

I concur with Andy and Kmgw9v that a wider lens would be better. I have been to Key West and used the Nikon 24-120mm f/4 and it worked out well.

Vector

I wouldn't rent a car. On my first visit, my then GF (now wife) and I flew into Fort Lauderdale and drove out to Key West (about a 4 hour drive). Nice ride during the day. But while at Key West the car moved twice- to go to dinner and when we left. Parking is scarce and expensive there.