Gorillas in the mist!

[Miowera]

Hi there, I'm a NEWBIE so please be gentle! I've just purchased a Canon 7D with the 17-55mm f2.8 and a 70-200mm f4 IS USM lens to take on a trip to Rwanda and Uganda to visit the Gorillas! I'm expecting low light conditions and my understanding is that we will probably be around 7 metres away from them if we are lucky. My question is given I can't shoot with a flash what is everyone's suggestion on how to get the best shots??? I intend to do heaps of practice but would like some tips to get started. Thanks!

[teaking]

Well I would say probably the best lens for your trip will be the 17-55mm as its a 2.8 lens. Your telephoto looks like its 4.5 which may not be fast enough for low light. But even at 55mm at the longest end of the lens you could get some nice shots of them interacting with the environment more journalistic style.

As for settings high ISO 1600 should be pretty good on the 7D, fast shutter lowest F-stop possible maybe try AV mode as with the light constantly changing it will alter the shutter for you.

[Jim Bryant]

If you can afford it, either rent or buy a 70-200mm f2.8 lens.

[sk66]

Originally Posted by Jim Bryant

If you can afford it, either rent or buy a 70-200mm f2.8 lens.

At 7 meters, I'd suggest the 28-70 2.8. and the kit 2.8 (actually, and I hate saying this) a 50mm f1.something would be good a well.

As for technique with what you have, holding/zooming/framing etc QUICKLY.

[Miowera]

Thanks all - appreciate the suggestions - wish me luck!

[teaking]

hmmmmmmmmmmm ...... go on then... good luck!