Friends,
My wife and I just returned from a series of three safaris in southern Africa. Our first safari was at a resort in Sabi Sands, next to Kruger National Park in South Africa. The second was to a camp on the Chobi River in Botswana, and the third was to a camp in the Okavango Delta in Botswana. All were wonderful.
A few brief thoughts;
1. I carried a Sony a1ii and Sony a9iii, along with a Sony FE 300 f2.8, a 2xTC, the 70-200 f2.8, a 24-70 f2.8, and 14-24 f2.8 Sigma. I barely used the 24-70 and didn't use the 14-24. Next time (and there will be a next time) I'll leave the 14-24 at home.
2. The 300+2xTC worked great on the a1ii, as did the 70-200 on the a9iii. They complemented each other well. I sometimes removed the 2xTC and dust wasn't a problem.
3. A two camera rig is essential if you're serious about your photography. Things would often move quickly, especially when animals changed positions, and I'm glad I didn't have to switch lenses while trying to track action.
4. I wouldn't have minded more reach than 600, but I didn't suffer for the lack of reach. The a1ii had enough megapixel head room to crop if necessary, and keeping a heavier lens steady would have been a challenge. Beanbags often weren't an option b/c the animals were moving and/or I had to change positions to get a shot. Plus, in early morning/late afternoon light I went with the 300 f2.8 and really appreciated the wider aperture.
I planned this trip for a year and received much helpful advice on the FM boards - thanks to everyone.
Anyway, here are a few of the highlights (so far). c&c welcome.
