Thanks so much for the very helpful information, especially since I just bought the Nikkor 200-500 lens and a new tripod. Am hoping to start doing some wildlife and bird photography. Debating between the D500 and D7500. Currently, I own the D5300, which has served well, but since I am heading to Tanzania in three months I want two cameras with different lenses.

Would you please enlighten us with the camera, lens, perhaps settings?

Friday, I start a drive to Durham, N.C. from Dallas taking the northern route. First night and following day, Hot Springs, Ark. Then, probably Nashville. Taking my Nikon D5300 with Nikkor 18-300DX F/3.5-6.3 and my 11-18 mm Tokina F/2.8. Today, I bought a Nikkor 200-500mm F/5.6 and a new carbon fiber tripod to try out. I thought I would stop in Washington, Ark. for some photos. Any other suggestions of photo locations along the way?

I shoot Nikon so I am unfamiliar with Canon. Is there a way in the camera model stated in posts for us to discern crop sensor Canons from full frame sensor ones?

I usually set my Nikon D5300 on the sport setting and automatic ISO to get a higher shutter speed and rarely have blue from the bus.

I was in Cambodia, on the rivers and in Viet Nam a year ago. I took my Nikon D5300 (crop sensor) with the Nikkor 18-300 mm. F3.5-6.3 zoom and it was the only lens that I used. I think your 24-105 is your workhorse. You probably will be able to use some longer reach, too. You will encounter condensation leaving the air conditioning on the river boat into the humidity.

Thank you so much for posting the link to the video on using a gimbal with a monopod. I was wondering how to use a gimbal with an slr.

Lovely photos. I agree with the previously stated reference to seeing fall rather than typical summer photos. Love the different colors.

Thanks so much for posting. I didn't know about this place. Since I am in Dallas, I am going to have to go there. I wonder what's the best time of year?

I think the best photos I ever took were with my Pentax H3v and the 55mm F/1.8 lens. Great piece of glass.

Folks, it would be nice if you didn't use abbreviations (e.g., "CA") without defining them first. Often drives me nuts trying to figure out what they mean. I have no idea what CA is (chromatic aberration is the only guess I can make?).

I would recommend D5300, D5500 or D5600. These are mid-range "introductory" cameras but generally considered "bargains" for what you get. The D5600 is the current version, the others past ones but probably available cheaper since they aren't the latest models. The major improvements in newer models tend to be in video, not still photography. They all have excellent sensors and processors. I personally own the D5300 which I bought because I travel a lot and wanted something lighter to carry. Also, I think you can pick up a D7200 body for about $600 now that the D7500 is out. Any of these will be usable for many years. I am still learning the whistles and bells in the menu of my D5300. Adding a good book would be advantageous, such as Busch's book or I think the thread talks about ones by Young (check out some other threads for the name of the author other than Busch) . If you can't find the books on the model you buy, then try one generation earlier on the model. The basics of the menus and features are the same even if, for example, there is a wider range of ISO for the later model. I couldn't find the Busch book on the D5300 for a reasonable price, but found the book on the D5100 at Half Price Books.

Back to your question. Take the Canon and 18-250 mm zoom lens. It will cover all your needs. I am senior and travel frequently; I only take my Nikon D5300 and 18-300 lens. Plus, take at least two batteries and a charger and plenty of cards. If you want a backup take one pocket camera.

My first digital camera was the D70s. The D3xxx series is considered the entry level lens-changing DSLR. Since I am retired I do a lot of travel, so weight was a big factor as to which camera I bought. I've had it two years and as an old, film guy, the digital settings are still a challenge and which I am learning. The D5300 is often considered the best deal vis a vis price vs features and sheer performance. Remember, the 5xxx series often has the same sensor as the 7xxx series, so the quality of your photos should be almost the same. You did well and the camera will give you years of performance.

I use the Tokina 11-16mm, F2.8 with my D5300.