Hello everybody, just thought I'd still my oar in here.
Christin,
Here are some general pointers based mostly upon what I have read. Feel free to ignore me and go your own way, if you like.
Going to Africa with a 300D:
The kit lens is great value and will give you the wide angle for the majestic vistas. If money is no object, swap it for Canon 17-40L (~$600) or try the Sigma 12-24 for really sweeping vistas.
Next, you want a long zoom for the lions.
Some things to remember here :
You are going to be in a vehicle (most of the time), so weight isn't as important as it might be, and you can't get out to zoom (in or out) with your feet (or they will eat you
).
Going up through a range of lenses:
~$200
Canon 75-300 USM - fast focus, slightly soft above 200mm with some CA.
Sigma 70-300 APO - sharp at 300mm, slower focus.
~$400
Canon 75-300 IS - better for handholding, still soft above 200mm
Canon 70-200/f4L - sharp, but short
Sigma 135-400
~$800
Sigma 50-500 - long zoom, but heavy
~$1200
Canon 100-400L IS - expensive, not as long as above, but IS.
Consider your budget and distance requirements. And don't forget power and storage.
If it was me and I was going on a "once in a lifetime" trip to Africa, I'd stump up for one of the last two (Forget the Sony and get both
) and one of those double bean-bags for leaning out of your nice, safe vehicle.
Oh, yes. You said you wanted a portrait lens. If you come back from Africa as poor as a church mouse, the Canon 50/1.8 is only $70.
Have a great holiday.
Neil Marsh.
