Zoom vs fixed lens for safari photography

by Sandeep Parke
(London, UK)

I am planning to visit Africa in the near future and I would like to know which lens is the best for safari photography between these two. I am specifically interested in wildlife and bird photography...

1) Canon EF 28-300mm F3.5-5.6 L IS USM.
2) Sigma 300mm f/2.8 EX DG HSM.

Thanks

Sandeep

Answer

You've asked a very pertinent question for safari photography Sandeep.

The fixed versus zoom lens debate for capturing wildlife images has been ongoing since the different lens configurations first made their appearance.

There isn't an easy answer to this one (don't you just hate it when that's the case?) because it all depends on your personal preferences and abilities.

A fixed lens has the advantage, on the whole, of producing sharper images compared to the equivalent zoom lens so if you want the clearest images then a fixed lens is the way to go for a safari.

The advantage of the zoom lens lies in its versatility, which makes composing safari pictures a lot easier.

For example, you can't get a lion to move so that it will fit completely into the picture frame and you can't always move the safari vehicle into the best position, especially at places where off roading isn't allowed, so this is where the zoom lens really comes into it's own.

Hope this helps with your decision.

Bruce