What lens(es) for the Bronx zoo

[aridan]

Hi all,

This weekend would be my first time going to the Bronx zoo. I have the lenses in my sig available, and was wondering what would be the best lens for the most part of the day. I was also wondering if the focal length of the 70-200 would suffice (on a 1DMkIII - 1.3 crop), thereby sparing the need to lug the 100-400 as well.

...the forecast calls for sunny skies

I will be taking my 21 mo. old daughter with me, and would like to snaps photos of her as well, and would probably use the 30D for those, paired up with the 50L.

Any advice for this particular venue would be highly appreciated.

Thank you

[nicksan]

This all depends on how far the animals are. Depending on the day they are all the way in the back taking a nap, especially after feeding time. I think it's best to go in the morning to void this.

I think for the animals that are in some kind of enclosure, such as the Gorillas, the 70-200L should be fine. However, I am tempted to recommend the 100-400L because you won't have such luxury with the Lion, etc...They are out in the open so if they are not in the mood, they will be VERY far away.

Assuming that the lighting is good, and all indications are it will be nice this weekend, perhaps the 100-400L will do nicely.

[dcad10]

100-400L sounds like the best option to me... 200mm seems to be too short often when it comes to zoos

[Skrim17]

Check the times too, if you get there right at 10 AM get to the tigers as they let them out and feed them or do enrichment type things then.

[nicksan]

Yeah, the last thing you want to do is get there in the early afternoon b/c most of the animals will be taking a nap.

[aridan]

Awesome, thanks for all the input guys. Much appreciated!