 BetterPhoto Member |
Buying an SLR I'm just beginning my search for an SLR camera. I've been using small, point-and-shoot 35MM and APS cameras for the past 10 years, primarily due to size. Now I want to expand into higher quality photography. Also, my wife and I are traveling to Kenya and Tanzania in June of 2001 and we want to make sure our photographs truly reflect the beauty of the landscapes and wildlife we will see. So, with all that said, what type of SLR and lenses would you recommend (say 2 lenses)? I'm convinced that I should get a Canon or Nikon but am unsure beyond that. Thanks!
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Jon Close |
I'm more familiar with Canon's lenses so I'll just address them. A trip to Africa sounds wonderful. I think you will want to cover the focal lengths of 28mm-105mm with your primary lens. This range is well suited to taking general scenics and people (group or portrait) pictures. On a normal vacation this might be the only lens you'd need. I'm assuming that you'll be taking a wildlife photo excursion as well, in which case you'll want a zoom lens extending to 300mm or more. You can get a single hyperzoom lens that covers the full range of 28-200 (Canon, Sigma, Tamron) or even 28-300 (Sigma and Tamron). They are economical, light, and convenient. But the image quality of these is not the best, especially at the long end. Now, how much do you want to spend? ;-) I don't think you necessarily need the extra bulk and low light capability of a constant aperture f/2.8 zoom, so for the primary lens I'd recommend (in decreasing cost order): EF 28-135 f/3.5-5.6 USM IS (Image Stabilization) I don't particularly care for Canon's entry level 28-80 f/3.5-5.6 USM V . For the telephoto zoom, I'd recommend (again in decreasing price order): EF 100-400 f/4.5-5.6 L USM IS (somewhat heavy and very expensive) Canon's Image Stabilization (IS) technology allows you to shoot hand-held at shutter speeds slower than possible otherwise.
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Doug |
Hi Joe, I am also searching for a new higher end camera/lens outfit and have been scouring the web for information. I have found several sites that are full of information. Outdoorphotographer.com seems to be a good spot and they address taking pictures in Africa and the difficulties associated with taking long shots from vehicles. They recommend the Canon EF Stabilizer lenses. One article I found informative can be found at: www.outdoorphotographer.com/content/pastissues/2000/mar/isinafrica.html The author also has his own web site at www.leppphoto.com. Good luck and have an enjoyable trip! Doug
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