Chester Zoo, ideal lens?

[j07cmt]

Going to Chester Zoo in the next few weeks, I've got a D3100 with kit lens, what kind of focal length will I need for Chester Zoo? Big cats, primates and Giraffes would be my ideal subjects.

 

[Gremlin]

Never been to chester zoo so no idea what it's like but I do tend to go to many of the local ones, ideally you want something with a 200/300m zoom length, bottom end 18/50m should be fine
I normally use a 70/200 and have the 18-70 with me for the closer shots.
Getting through bars/ mesh can be a major problem

 

[j07cmt]

70-200 is what I was hoping you would say. Currently trying to get SWMBO to release funds for a 2nd hand sigma - can't justify a Nikon being a noob

 

[Gremlin]

Good luck with that I do have the nikon version, it's my normal walk about lens, stays on the camera most of the time

 

[Deleted member 34016]

I visited Chester Zoo in the Summer, took my 150-500mm got some cracking shots with it as most of the animals were a fair way off - also in my bag was my walk about lens 18-250mm, although I have to say, I didnt actually use it

Enjoy it its a very good zoo


Les

 

[j07cmt]

Thanks for tip - that is a lens I would look at if I wouldn't have such a gap from the kit lens or my soon to be delivered 35mm prime.

I've been to Chester a few times, but never with a DSLR. One of the best zoos

 

[Deleted member 34016]

agreed, I shoot mostly wildlife and birds and candid people - so its hardly off my camera now to be honest, Im sure you'll get some good shots, no matter what lens you choose

Look forward to seeing the results

Les

 

[mickledore]

I went on a forum meet a couple of weeks ago. I had a 100 - 400mm plus a 100mm macro. Steve had a 150 - 500mm plus a 100mm (I think). We both swapped lenses all day, and still thought we'd taken the wrong ones!