I appreciate all the feedback. I have a good tripod, but it's too heavy, so will check into ligthweight monopods.
Would an ipod classic work ok for downloads/storage? I know the downloads will be slower than the EpsonP5000, but it can store 80G and we'll be "hanging" between the sunrise and sunset drives anyway?
And do I or do I not get a 1.4TC or extension tube for either the 100-400 or 70-200?
We do not own an external flash of any kind-suggestions for the xti and/or 30D?
Look forward to your responses
Thanks,
Lisa
Posted by Kent Staubus on August 10, 2008 at 11:59 AM
I would skip the 1.4x since you already are bringing the 100-400mm, a lens it will likely not work well with. It would just be something more to carry. A flash is useful. I did have another thought. Instead of bringing the 100-400mm, since you already have the 80-200mm f2.8 IS (I'm assuming it's IS) you could consider getting a Canon 2x and leaving the 100-400mm home. Again, less stuff to carry, lighter load. Someone else more familiar with Canon can comment on image quality between 200mm + 2x vs. 100-400mm. I did note you have no sensor or lens cleaner. I would bring at least a Rocket Bulb for the sensor and some Zeiss lens wipes (Walmart, $3/box) for the lenses. If you have a digital storage deal you won't need so many memory cards.
Kent in SD
Posted by John Mumaw on August 10, 2008 at 10:09 PM
I think you need an adapter like the Belkin Media Reader to download CF cards to an iPod.
Be sure to read the user reviews at that link! Looks like a pretty mediocre way to go at best.
Instead, why not consider a Digital Partner portable storage device?
I've been using one for several years now, and it's been very reliable. Because you can't view your images, the prices are quite good, IMO.
Your 100-400IS lens should be fine as is on a 1.6x camera. I certainly wouldn't consider sticking a TC on that lens. They work optimally with faster prime lenses anyway.
Best of luck on your trip!
Posted by Dan Borzynski on August 10, 2008 at 11:20 PM
I haven't used the 100-400, so I can't directly comment on that.
However, I own both converters and the 70-200 f2.8 IS. The 1.4 on the 70-200 gives reasonable image quality, certainly nothing I'd shy away from if I need that option. I've never gotten a dead sharp image with the 2x on the lens, but others seem to be happy with that combination. Since you are bringing the 100-400, I wouldn't go the 2x route.
Will you have a driver who knows the local animals? If you do, the 100-400 plus 1.6 body is more than enough. Further away and you are getting into 500-600 mm range which is a completely different territory for shooting, in terms of cost, technique and just plain getting it through the US airline system. A local guide will make a huge difference in successfully finding wildlife, if that is a goal.
I haven't heard great things about using an IPod, but I don't own one so that is second-hand information.
Discussion
3 repliesWould an ipod classic work ok for downloads/storage? I know the downloads will be slower than the EpsonP5000, but it can store 80G and we'll be "hanging" between the sunrise and sunset drives anyway?
And do I or do I not get a 1.4TC or extension tube for either the 100-400 or 70-200?
We do not own an external flash of any kind-suggestions for the xti and/or 30D?
Look forward to your responses
Thanks,
Lisa
Kent in SD
Be sure to read the user reviews at that link! Looks like a pretty mediocre way to go at best.
Instead, why not consider a Digital Partner portable storage device?
I've been using one for several years now, and it's been very reliable. Because you can't view your images, the prices are quite good, IMO.
Your 100-400IS lens should be fine as is on a 1.6x camera. I certainly wouldn't consider sticking a TC on that lens. They work optimally with faster prime lenses anyway.
Best of luck on your trip!
However, I own both converters and the 70-200 f2.8 IS. The 1.4 on the 70-200 gives reasonable image quality, certainly nothing I'd shy away from if I need that option. I've never gotten a dead sharp image with the 2x on the lens, but others seem to be happy with that combination. Since you are bringing the 100-400, I wouldn't go the 2x route.
Will you have a driver who knows the local animals? If you do, the 100-400 plus 1.6 body is more than enough. Further away and you are getting into 500-600 mm range which is a completely different territory for shooting, in terms of cost, technique and just plain getting it through the US airline system. A local guide will make a huge difference in successfully finding wildlife, if that is a goal.
I haven't heard great things about using an IPod, but I don't own one so that is second-hand information.