Dolphins - What Lens

[keevilp]

I am looking for some advice, if poss. I have checked the "sticky" but not really helped me in this situation.

I presently use a Canon 40D with 17-85 IS and 100-400 IS Lenses.

I am going to Gibraltar in a few weeks and plan to go out on the "Brixham Belle" and take photos of the dolphins jumping at the front of the boat.

Its only a small boat - capable of holding 20-30 people.

I got some good images last year but am in pursuance of excellence :)

I wasnt thinking of going as big as a 300mm f2.8 but just wondered whether anyone could recommend a good small prime lens for me to get good clarity on the image.

..... or perhaps would the 17-85 do the job?


Cheers in advance

[hollis_f]

If I were going out to look at dolphins again I'd probably take my 70-200 f4. It's fast focussing and about the right focal length range. I guess the 70-200 2.8 would be even better.

[jrntr6]

As far as range goes i would think the 17-85, is probably good. when i was in gibralter i kept my 70-200 on my camera while on a ferry, just incase we saw dolphins, but getting closer on a smaller boat boat and possibly shooting groups of dophins makes the 17-85 a logical choice to me... i would be worried about renting a prime as changing lenses on a crowded with salkt water spray could be hazardous.

[mjc_ma]

I would also make sure to have a good polarizer filter to help cut down on glare off the water and maybe be able to get some shots through the water.

[jloyo001]

70-200 2.8 is a great lens for dolphins

[Scottes]

I would also make sure to have a good polarizer filter to help cut down on glare off the water and maybe be able to get some shots through the water.
Ditto. My experiences with seals and whales tell me that a CPL is a very good thing to bring.