Going To Alaska; What Lens to Rent For 7D

Title Says it all, I will be going on an Alaskan kayaking/hiking trip to Prince Williams Sound. I dont even know where to start. Thanks for your knowledge.

Last year, on Kodiak, I had the 7D with both the 100-400 and 70-200 f/2.8 II. I did use both, but this year I took, and will again take next month, only the 100-400 of the two. That said, when wading (fishing), I used a Sony point and shoot kept in my vest. This year, the island has had a lot of wet weather and the higher end gear stayed near the lodge.

I assume you also will take a wider lens.

I suggest a high-end, water-proof point&shoot with a wide-range zoom. Hiking, and particularly kayaking, will involve a high risk of soaking your gear.

If you decide to take the 7D, I suggest a wide-to-tele zoom plus a moderate tele zoom. Weight will be important factor if you are carrying your gear yourself. And add a waterproof bag.

I agree with the above post.....bring a P&S if you're going to be in the water. Otherwise, a 17-55 for a walk-around and a 10-22 to capture the vastness of it all. Add a long zoom like 70-300 if you want some bird shots and such, but that's going to add some weight.

Consider the 15-85

17-55 2.8 IS
100-400 IS

The skies are often dark and cloudy there. I would definitely bring something with image stabilization. I'm not sure if you are after wildlife or landscape type photos, but these two should cover both bases.

No matter what you bring, make sure it's stored in a floating, waterproof case if you're kayaking.

I say it all the time on here but it's something oft overlooked by many Alaska-bound travelers. The first instinct for many (myself included, as a wide angle junkie) is to pick up a UWA for those expansive landscapes. What you find when you get there is that Alaska is a HUGE place and the sheer size of it, along with it's wildlife, lends itself to the use of telephoto lenses very well. I would pack a standard zoom and something along the lines of the 100-400 and call it good.

Or just a superzoom P&S and call it a day.

Whatever you decide, be safe and enjoy!

+1

17-55 f/2.8 and 100-400L combo will cover just about everything you can come up with.

My vote
10-22 instead of 17-55 on crop sensor
100-400 IS