My wife and I are off to Africa next week and rather than lug the 500f/4 on and off airplanes I was thinking of taking the 100-400 zoom as being a more manageable size. Is this adequate for a couple of days in Chobe national park and a couple of days in the Masai Mara? or would a 400 F/5.6 be a better proposition? Camera body would be a 1D111.
First, were I to go on a trip to Africa, I personally wouldn't leave the 500 at home, but I can understand your desire for reducing weight. If the choice is between the 100-400 and the 400 f/5.6, I would definitely go with the 100-400. My copy has superb IQ at 400mm (easily equal to the prime) and the versatility of the zoom is a bonus. You would give up some AF speed (the 400 f/5.6 being a little faster), but for me the trade off would be worth it.
Take the 500 and the 100-400. There are times you will want the 500 and he 1.4 and even the 2.0 TCs. Other times you will need the flexibility of the 100-400. A wide angle option will also come in useful for the landscape opportunities. You really need to be prepared for everything. If possible I would have 2 bodies. If you can borrow one it would be good. Keep the 100-400 on one and the 500 on the other.
I'll add my vote for the 500. I've always taken a 500 and glad I did. I might consider a 300 f/2.8 if I were to save weight. I've taken my 500 f/4, 300 f/4, 70-200 f/4 (all IS) and shorter lenses. I don't recall ever using the 3004 f/4. but take it as backup in case th 500 develops a problem. As long as I can physically carry it, I'll continue to take the 500. And 2 bodies. Of course, how many people in the safari vehicle. I've never had more then 2 (me plus one other, plus driver). If you have several people I think it may be difficult to move the 500 around.
Many thanks for the suggestions . Because it is not primarily a photographic tour I don't know how people who wish to do some photography will be tolerated by the larger group. I think i will take a 300/2.8 and the 1.4 and 2.0 extenders in an effort minimize the real estate I will occupy and i'll pack the 100-400 just in case.
Lex,
I feel if you have the 300 f/2.8, you've got more than needed by the 100-400, and sharper. I have the 300 f/2.8, 500 f/4 and 100-400. I would choose the 300 f/2.8 in a heartbeat over the 100-400. Instead of the 100-400, I would (and always do) take a 70-200 and a shorter lens for scenics and people.
One other note, on my return from Tanzania in January both my son's and my suitcase have been broken into and all the batteries stolen (3 1D Mark II and a couple of 5d Mark II batteries). Next time I'll see about shrink wrapping at the airport if I have anything valuable in the checked luggage.
Thanks for the security tip Roger; having never been to this part of the world I don't really know what to expect.We are travelling with a reputable tour company but I suppose you are always vulnerable in places like airports where your checked gear disappears for hours at a time.
Lex,
Anything can be stolen in any city in the world, though usually it's not the batteries. But in dozens of trips per year all over the world for 3 decades that's the only incident I have had.
You'll have a great time. Lodges and food have always been very good to great in my travels (I like the rustic ones too). The people are great and friendly and the wildlife astounding. Have fun!
Having been on numerous African trips I suggest to keep it simple and safe. I'd go with only the 100-400 especially if the trip is not primarily photographic. You'll be tossed around in 4x4 vehicles, have limited space in the vehicle and yes security is an issue, I too have had bag contents stolen. The 100-400 is good because it compacts down to a small size and is light enough to hand hold, and gives a great focal range for bee-eaters to elephants. I'd also go with an APS-C body if you have one for greater 'apparent' magnification. Plus the 100-400 has IS, the 400 5.6 does not, another plus in safari conditions.
“A Photographer’s Guide to The Safari Experience” is loaded with practical suggestions.
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