Questions and Answers about Cameras, Lenses, and Photography Equipment used on an African Safari
Question:
I do not have a lot of camera equipment, lenses and such. I use a nice mid size digital. Would a photographic safari not be good for me?
Answer:
You will have many incredible animal encounters that you will be able to document with your fixed lens camera. Many of the animals will be 30 feet or closer: we have had lions 5 feet from the vehicle – all the guys with long lenses were scrambling to change lenses. You may get jealous of the long and specialized lenses, but you will learn to get the most out of your camera from your guide and the other photographers through composition and approaching the subject. Video users get incredible results too because they can capture the reactions of the guests when they see the animals.
Question:
I use a Canon 40D and have three lenses. (1) 100 mm f2.8 Macro (2) 17-55 mm f2..8 (3) 70-200mm f2..8 with a 2x multiplier plus filters etc. Can I get along with these or do I need a longer and of coarse heavier telephoto? The idea of the weight and cost of a good 300mm or 400mm is discouraging. Any suggestions?
Answer:
I use both Canon and Nikon systems (because of my underwater work). The long lens I use in Africa are: Canon 70-200mm f2.8 with a Canon 5D and multipliers, Nikon 80-400mm f4.5- 5.6, and Nikon 300mm f2.8 with Nikon D2X (crop factor x1.5) and some multipliers ( total length I can get with this setup is 900mm at f5.6). The lens and camera I use the most when on safari is Nikon D2X and 80-400 (total length I can get with this setup is 600mm f4.5-5.6, with camera crop factor of x1.5). Canon does make a EF 100-400mm f4.5-5.6, I think it runs about $1,400, it a little lighter then the 70-200mm, has a push-pull zoom hand control ( takes time to get used to), while this lens isn’t suited for low light situations. With the Canon 40D and this lens the max length is 640mm at f5.6 (I do not think I would use multiplier with this lens). As you can see you get the same total length and F stop as the 70-200mm (with multiplier). The EF 100-400mm lens is very repetitious of your 70-200mm. I think the 70-200mm is more versatile. With the Canon 300mm f2.8 + D40 + 2x teleconverter the total length would be 960mm f5.6, this lens is tack sharp, great in low light, again you have the cost and weight factor that makes this lens discouraging. Also recommended that a tripod or monopod be used for a long length of time (weight and sharpness of focus). While on safari on private games reserves we try to get as close as physically possible to the wildlife without disturbing the wildlife. In Kruger National Park people are not allowed to get out of their vehicles (park rules), so long lens could be very helpful. There is no magic lens that all focal length and F stops, I like to travel light with as little equipment as possible. Your 70-200mm lens should be adequate for African safari. I do recommend a light weight/ compact monopod that can be attached to the lens mount.
Question:
Do I have to worry about theft of my camera gear?
Answer:
You need to take a lot of care while in airports both in South Africa and in the US. If possible get all of your lenses and cameras into a carryon. It is also smart to have an insurance policy to cover each item individually since each lens could be over the reimbursement limits of a regular insurance policy. Once at the lodge your equipment is either with you or is safe in the room. The staff is honest and it is a very small community that does not tolerate theft from the guests. I have never had any problems.
