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 p.1 #9 · p.1 #9 · Botswana: D810 and D7100, or get D500 instead of D7100 | |
Hi,
1. There is only about 1.8 pounds difference between the 200-500 and the 80-400. The biggest issue is the fact that the 200-500 is so much larger. Honestly, though, if you have a copy of the 80-400 you are happy with, use it. I shot for 3 years/trips here and in Africa with the new version and have happily printed up to 3x4 feet off my D810 shots.
2. I can't talk about flights in Botswana as I don't get there till next year, but in general the in country flights are pretty strict on weight (more below). Talk to your outfitter/trip arranger on this issue and go with his guidance.
3. In South Africa the common vehicles are completely open (love it!) with no side rails. I typically shoot handheld (like everyone else) but always have a small Manfrotto monopod in my clothing duffle. Having my main camera on it is practical only if you are the only person on that seat row, but man does it ever make a difference in sharpness when you look at your images back home. In Masai Mara in Kenya our outfitter had specifically arranged for open-side vehicles where the monopod, as far as I am concerned, was a life saver for photography (and really helpful with video). In your case I would try to pick out a lightweight travel type monopod that will fit in your duffle, and just have it in the vehicle for your main camera/lens. Then use it whenever you can.
4. I have yet to have an issue with using the UD50 as a briefcase "personal item" and the AC as my "carry on" bag. Both are actually pretty small compared to the normal giant things you see on most overseas flights. The AC is specifically designed to go under the seat or in the (very small) overhead space on the US and Canadian commuter jets and the UD50 slides under the seat with ease. In ZA and Kenya and Tanzania I did have to gate check the AC with my duffle but was allowed the UD50 as a carry on. Again, this is constantly changing and you need to check with your outfitter ahead of time. A couple years ago we had a video crew with us in ZA and the ZA Air-Link staff was getting snotty about the extra bags and weight till the lead cameraman pulled out his credit card and said "how much." Then all was goodness and light. At the little commuter airport in Nairobi the desk agent counted the number of people and started weighing bags, then called the last couple people up to the counter and told them the plane was overweight and their luggage would have to fly on a later plane. Our outfitter had a conversation with the agent and somehow (actually, about $70.00 USD later) all the luggage got magically loaded. Not sure what the pilots thought about it, or if they even knew. I have a smallish soft duffle I use for my checked bag and it (with clothes and spare camera gear like chargers and such) rarely comes in over 28 pounds.
5. I have never had any issues with using flash after sunset / before sunrise anywhere I have been. I do talk to the driver ahead of time though, so it won't be a surprise. I generally explain that all I can expect to get at any position, especially with birds, is three flashes so if everyone is happy with the sighting after I have fired three shots he can proceed down the track without further delay. So far every time the drivers on all my trips have been very accommodating with positioning the vehicles for flash work.
6. I am never shy about politely asking for the driver to move to a better position for composition and lighting, especially if everyone else in the vehicle is just "along for the ride." Also, if I think I got a really good or exceptional shot on the day's drive I privately tip the driver a few extra bucks that evening.............that's over and above the tip they get at the end of the week. That and learning names works wonders.
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As for weight, I plan to carry my camera bag on the plane but if it has to go below, so be it. And our leader, Andy Biggs, recommended the 24 1.4 for low light early morning and late evening shots of the local critters. I think we're going to be really close to them 