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Best Cameras for wildlife photography

I was wondering if you could help me. I am planning a trip to Africa and am an avid fan of wildlife. I want to make the most of my trip by taking the most suitable camera equipment with me. I am a beginner but would really like to get into photography in a big way as have always been fascinated by it. Could you possibly recommend a model that would best suit my needs. I have a budget of about £500 but can be reasonably flexible either way.

I would be really grateful for any assistance that you could give me please as I am hoping to buy a camera this week.

With Kind Regards

Gill

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August 11, 2003

i hope this helps,
Tiffany Barkevich
Antigodess@hotmail.com

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August 11, 2003

First, I would recommend picking up a book or two on nature and wildlife photography AND on african wildlife so you can get a sense of what to expect and what to do. One book I would suggest you should DEFINITELY pick up is John Shaw's Field Guide to Nature Photography.

With regard to equipment, I would choose between a mid to upper level pro camera due to the rugged nature of their bodies. If you are going to go on a Safari you don't want to lose such a great opportunity due to some screw up with your camera. Either Nikon or Canon.

More critical than the body; however, is the lens choice. Get fast telephoto lenses. For wildlife work at least a 300mm lens would be preferable and perhaps a teleconverter for when you want to get close without having to get closer. Again, John Shaw's book should explain all this in wonderful detail.

With film choice, I would disagree with Barkevich. I wouldn't go with a film faster than 400. Most nature photographers work with 100 speed film.

With regard to cameras, again ruggedness and durability are the key. Anything else is just preference.

Hope this helps.

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August 14, 2003