What photographic equipment is ideal for a safari?

Answer 1

First, make sure your camera can take pictures in a raw format. All DSLR and mirrorless interchangeable lens cameras can do this, but if your camera is a "bridge" camera (aka "superzoom"), you will need to check. Capturing in raw is essential for rescuing photos taken in less than ideal lighting conditions, such as low light or noon sun with contrasty shadows.

Second, assuming you are using a camera that can change lenses, I recommend NOT changing lenses when you are outside. Dust is everywhere, and that dust will make its way onto your sensor. If you only have one camera, I recommend a zoom lens with the widest range of focal lengths. Since most safari pictures are taken during the day, a fast lens isn't as important as a flexible one.

1. For full frame, the pro choice is 100-400mm, the more flexible is about 28-300mm.
2. For APS-C, consider an 18-200 or 18-300.
3. For micro four-thirds, look into 12-200 or 14-140mm.

Bring more memory cards than you think you need. When you shoot raw, the images take up a lot more room. Even if you don't fill all the cards, you'll be able to use them eventually. Assume you can fit 1000 raw images on a 32GB card. If you shoot 500 images per day, get one 32GB card per two days of shooting.

Bring a rugged camera bag or backpack, WITHOUT branding. You want to attract the least attention. Make sure it is secure and has lots of organizational pockets.