lbodem

Photographers: I'll be taking pictures with a 80-400 lens. Do I also need to bring my own binocs? I am concerned about weight, etc. There are three of us and we'll have two pair of binocs (one good, one only OK) but not one for each us. What is your experience?

HariS

suggest to take your own binocs - highly recommend!

ShayTay

I usually only use my telephoto, but have a small pair of binocs I use on occasion. I also shoot video, so there is only so much stuff I can take. If you've got room, take the binocs.

atravelynn

The more time you want to spend watching birds, the more you'll be glad you brought binocs.

If weight is a concern, take a smaller, lighter pair. I really like my own binocs and don't want to share them on safari, even with good friends or loved ones. Just like I'd rather not share my camera and wait for others to finish snapping before handing it back to me.

suzic

I take a 100-300 lens (not quite as big as yours), but I wouldn't go on safari without my binocs, I so not want to spend my trip with my head in my camera- I want to experience the trip- take the bino's- the good ones- or you will regret it!!

Just my 2cents
Suzi

Pula

I bet you can sense a trend here . . . I carry a 100-400 lens and wouldn't dream of going without my binocs as well. I also pack a second camera body with a walk-around lens and yes, it's a lot of gear but I consider it all essential. That said, I don't carry everything everywhere I go -- for example, when walking.

africama

I also recomend you take a binocs. Itīs normally a lot lighter and easier to handle than the camera + long lens...