Andy Biggs
Member
I mostly use the 240mm lens without a teleconverter, but every now and then I slap in on if I have the time or want a different composition.
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Thanks Andy, that helps a lot in my decision making.I mostly use the 240mm lens without a teleconverter, but every now and then I slap in on if I have the time or want a different composition.
Joe, I hear you. I wish things were as simple.Pradeep,
I've never been to Africa on a wildlife photography safari, but have experience photographing wildlife and traveling with multiple kits.
Carrying four different cameras (1DX, 7D2, 645Z and a7R) sounds excessive to me, and quite possibly may get in the way of capturing those magic moments that we all seek. Since two of your cameras are Canon mounts, I'd suggest taking only one of them, with the 100-400mm "glued" on. If you carry the a7R, take a Canon EF-to-Sony E-mount adapter (Metabones III or IV) so that you can use that same lens on the Sony (just in case). Following your lead, I'm now shooting with a Pentax 645Z and would suggest taking the 45-85mm, 150mm and 300mm (assuming you won't be shopping for more gear before your trip). If you had the 80-160mm zoom, I would have suggested taking that lens instead of either the 120mm or 150mm.
From a practical perspective, taking multiple kits means taking multiple chargers, batteries, filters and other accessories. It's a PITA to keep track of. And lens swapping in dusty environments leads to frequent sensor cleaning or ruined shots due to a dirty sensor. You also mentioned the weight factor. For me, carrying a heavy backpack or shoulder bag for days at a time takes away from the enjoyment of the experience. YMMV.
Guy said it best:
Have a great trip and don't miss the "great stuff" by carrying too much gear.
Joe
Actually, it may turn out that my main camera during this trip could well be the 645Z! The Canon would then simply be a backup or for those frenetic action sequences (tiger leaping over a stream).I have travelled twice to Kenya on Safari, three to a vehicle. On both occasions
I traveled with Hasselblad H3D-31 with a 300mm, 210mm with 1.7X converter.
I made over 2000 exposures with this system. I have prints 40X60 made from them. Do't leave them behind. I also had a Canon system with me.(BACK UP).
Best.
OP
Peter, in the end you may end up with just as much gear as me on my tripI'm joining a 15 day photographic expedition (oar rafts, no motors) through the Grand Canyon in May 2016 and am already starting to have the same thoughts of what to bring and what not.
One thing is certain I won't go with just one back! But I'm thinking of going light with just my tech cam and 3-4 lenses and a (rental) backup back and a tool set and various spare parts for the shutters and such.
No room for laptops so plenty of CF cards. Also plenty of batteries as there's no way of charging but I'm looking into a solar powered solution to take along.
I'll probably get some kind of smaller camera to take along as well, like the A7R or something similar. Probably just with one wide lens. Oh and a GoPro for the rapid rides
So I'm there with Pradeep, these trips are one in a lifetime investments and being there and having your gear fail with no backup would be just heartbreaking.
If you find a tiger in Africa, please let me know! yuk yuk yuk. I crack myself up. I know what you mean, though. That's the approach I now take, which is the MF gear comes first and 35mm gear fills in the gaps.Actually, it may turn out that my main camera during this trip could well be the 645Z! The Canon would then simply be a backup or for those frenetic action sequences (tiger leaping over a stream).
Andy, I know what you mean. I've been meaning to go see tigers in India for years but every time we visit I get caught up in family affairs and never have the time. From friends in India and others who have gone to see tigers in the various parks, it is hit or miss and you could be there for a whole week and not seen much of a tiger.If you find a tiger in Africa, please let me know! yuk yuk yuk. I crack myself up. I know what you mean, though. That's the approach I now take, which is the MF gear comes first and 35mm gear fills in the gaps.
Enjoy your safari!
That is a novel thought, but I am still a bit of a chickenAfter reading this thread, I am wondering why not take another 645Z as backup and perhaps a small whateveryouchoose as one more backup?
As for Grand Canyon, other than go pro, you had better contemplate a totally waterproof still camera too, even if APS-C or whatever.
D&A;641693 As others here know said:Dave
Have you summarized any of the latest 645 lenses somewhere that might help me gain more knowledge. As a matter of fact the older lenses could be interest also. I a new 645Z user this becomes invaluable, TIA
Lou
Thank you very much Joe, greatly appreciated.. Lou, you'll notice none of the new lenses like your 25mm, 28-45 zoom, 90mm macro amd a few older lenses like the manual focus 600 f5.6 are included in the posted results. I've tested multiple samples of these lenses too but since the intial posted report (Part I) simply haven't had time to write up Part II. Something always comes up to get in the way. I have though provided general feedback on each when asked.
Joe