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View Full Version : Lens choices for St. Augustine Alligator Farm



Don Saunders
04-30-2009, 07:34 AM
What focal lengths do you recommend for bird photography at the St. Augustine Alligator Farm? I would like to shoot both perched and BIF.

This spring, I have visited both Gatorland and the Venice Rookery. I realize all three locations are unique and special.

Thanks for your suggestions!

Michael Pancier
05-04-2009, 09:56 AM
Don, for Birds in Flight, the lens there is a 70-200 with a 1.4x. Anything more, and you run the risk of clipping them as they literally fly so close to you. For close ups of nesting or perched birds, 300-500 is optimal with converters as needed.

Don Saunders
05-04-2009, 10:21 AM
Thanks, Michael.

I will plan to take the 70-200 on the 50D for BIF. I have a 400 for perched birds. I have extenders if needed.

Michael Pancier
05-04-2009, 12:18 PM
Thanks, Michael.

I will plan to take the 70-200 on the 50D for BIF. I have a 400 for perched birds. I have extenders if needed.

I should have also noted that 100-400 is good there too. The key is is having the ability to zoom out when they're literally 10-20 feet above you....

Charles Wesley
05-07-2009, 02:43 PM
Don,

I use my EF 100- 400 for BIF at the Alligator Farm. It's doing a good job for me this year. Will make a post tomorrow....
___________________
Charlie Wesley
St. Augustine Beach, FL

Alfred Forns
05-08-2009, 04:36 PM
Hi Don I second the use of the 100-400 With a crop factor camera it is a good choice. When the place is crowded is the best to use !!

btw the 70-200 with a 1.4X is also useful.

Also take the 500 for head shots. I like taking my rolling bag and tripod in hand.... then work out of the bag.

Don Saunders
05-11-2009, 04:19 PM
Thanks for the suggestions. I just returned from my trip (family weekend with a few short bird/landscape photo ops). I spent 3 hours at "the Farm" one evening last week. It was great. Birds everywhere! I used the 70-200 and 400 f/5.6 that I have (don't have a 100-400) on the 50D. I'll post some of photos soon. I also shot Terns at Ft. Clinch SP. Got some nice shots of BIF with fish. Also sunrise at Amelia Island using the 5D2 and even some HD video. Both sunrises were with cloudless horizon so the sun rose from the water - cool!

Thanks so much!

Judy Becker
05-25-2009, 07:40 AM
Any problems at the farm after all of the rain St Augustine has been having ?

Judy