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Filemon Lopez
04-12-2009, 12:13 PM
Looks like I may finally make it to Gatorland. Looking for insight into what type of lenses to take and also places to stay in the area. I am looking to go next weekend.

Thanks

Filemon

Mike Tracy
04-13-2009, 11:50 AM
If you stay for the evening light 400mm is good and 500mm is better IMO for shooting across the pond to get the baby's in the nests and incoming spoonbills. I usually don't use a TC with my 500 here and just move into the position across from where I want to be. I usually also have the Canon 70-200 with and w/o a TC on another body for all the activity thats close by and in your face flights. If you have the 200-400 I think you would be covered.

On 192 there are tons of inexpensive motels ( some a little seedy looking, some not so ) heading west towards I-4. Maybe ask Maxis where he stays when he is over this way.

Rene A
04-13-2009, 04:52 PM
Filemon,

I was at Gatorland last week and used 24-105 on 1 body and 100-400 on 50D I also had a tripod with 500.. but did not use it.. If you use a 500 maybe a kinko tubes would be good. We always stay at Comfort Suites Main Gate EAST. You get the best & cheapest price $ 84 includes all taxes) online at www.choicehotels.com ) it's at OLd town Kissimmee.. and the rooms are nice & clean and its a non smoking hotel.

Hope this helps.

Marina Scarr
04-13-2009, 06:47 PM
There are some Howard Johnsons which are nearby and not bad at all for about $50. They do accept AAA discounts also.

Both mornings and afternoons are excellent for bird photography but completely different. I would bring my extension tubes, 1.4tc, 70-200, and 400 or 500. Enjoy...you won't want to go home.

Forgot to add flash & tripod are also needed.

Maxis Gamez
04-13-2009, 07:35 PM
To elaborate a little more....

You can do a search on Hotels.com and find something near Gatorland's zip code (32837). Last time I was there my hotel was under $50. You won't spend much time in the hotel so why pay more?

As far as lenses goes, I only bring my 500mm and 70-200 with a 20mm Kenko tube and my flash set up and tripod of course!

Have fun!