I'm headed out to Utah for the first time in a while this weekend, and Donna and I are thinking of exploring some of GSENM, including Calf Creek Falls and some of the slots (especially Zebra...).
My main problem: I still don't have a wide-angle lens for my D2X. I've rented a 12-24 in the past, but normally I only carry around 28mm as my widest lens. I'd rather not spend cash, but can I adequately cover the slots or even Calf Creek with a 42mm effective lens?
Also, any other recommendations from recent trips? Rick's images of Willow Gulch look nice, but if it's been dry will it be that nice this year?
You could, but I wouldn't want to. If you had 24-28mm effective coverage You would be better off, I think. You could always stitch frames together, though. When I was in that area I was still using film and I got by with 24mm, however in some of the tighter slots l would've liked something wider at times. GSENM is a great place to spend a weekend, if you get a chance, hike a ways down the Escalante River, its beautiful.
A 28mm lens might be a bit limiting, although you don't need a very wide angle as the slots are, well, very narrow . Most of what I shot was with my 17-35, much of it nearer the wide end. I did do some tighter comps with my 24-120, but I don’t recall using my 12-24 for anything. I also made some nice images with my Olympus C-8080 which is an effective 28mm at the wide end. For reference, the image here was made with the C-8080 at ~ 28mm, effective (so, a bit wider than what your 28mm lens will achieve).
As far as other locations, I can't be of much help. You've listed every place I've ever been down there and they were all great. Willow is a fascinating hike; I don't know that the absence of water would change my opinion much. It can be tricky finding your way out, so make sure you bring a GPS or mark your trail well.
Discussion
3 repliesMy main problem: I still don't have a wide-angle lens for my D2X. I've rented a 12-24 in the past, but normally I only carry around 28mm as my widest lens. I'd rather not spend cash, but can I adequately cover the slots or even Calf Creek with a 42mm effective lens?
Also, any other recommendations from recent trips? Rick's images of Willow Gulch look nice, but if it's been dry will it be that nice this year?
A 28mm lens might be a bit limiting, although you don't need a very wide angle as the slots are, well, very narrow
As far as other locations, I can't be of much help. You've listed every place I've ever been down there and they were all great. Willow is a fascinating hike; I don't know that the absence of water would change my opinion much. It can be tricky finding your way out, so make sure you bring a GPS or mark your trail well.