GALAPAGOS/WHAT KIND OF FILM?
 

What speed of film would you suggest? We own a simple point and shoot Minolta camera---(3.3X FREEDOM ZOOM 125). We'll be taking pictures of the Galapagos Islands and later outdoor shots of Quito and environs. Here and there we may wish to take some indoor shots too. <BR> <BR>Thanks for your help.

We used exclusively 400 Kodak Max and photos came out great. However I suggest investing in a new camera with a longer lens

You might consider Fuji's new 800 speed Superia film, you can't go wrong with it, especially if you are going to use the same roll to take bright daytime pics as well as evening. And if you can't or don't want to use a flash (like taking photos of animals you could scare off with a flash) in low light this film is fast enough to avoid a totally blurry shot. <BR> <BR>Marlena

We used some Fuji 800 speed recommended by Marlena. Unfortunately, pictures came out really terrible as there is too much light in Galapagos for such fast film. Green wasn't green at all. Wildlife in Galapagos is so tame that you don't have to worry about getting away. Birds and animals just stay there very oblivious to you walking by or standing very close to them. We used Kodak and what a difference. However, I do not remember which Kodak film it was.

I used 200 speed Kodak film and my pictures came out great (all 22 rolls of them!) <BR> <BR>

Haven't been to the Galapagos, but from lots of photo experience and from seeing many photos from the Galapagos, I am guessing you could get by fine for most shots with 100 speed film. Definitely take some 400 for cloudy days and other low-light conditions. 800 is mostly useful in travel photography only for indoor shots without flash. I think you may actually want to use your flash outside there. It can add catchlights in the animals' eyes and get rid of shadows during the mid-day hours. The key to great animal photography is much like the key to great human portraiture - sharp eyes that have some life in them. So focus on the eyes, and try a little flash.

Natalie, I rethought my post. I know that some nature photographers do question the use of flash with animals, so I took a look at www.photo.net to see what others said about the Galapagos. Apparently some guides prohibit the use of flash on the islands. You might want to take a look at the site. Go to the Moderated Forums section and search on "Galapagos."

Hi, <BR> <BR>Just returned from the Galapagos, Quito, Guayaquil & a place outside of Quito called "TInalandia". I brought of mix of film, 100, 200, 400 & 800. I used an advanced point & shoot. My best pictures came out with the 400 and 800's. We captured nice photos of frigate birds and blue footed boobies in their mating dances - a lot of movement and they came out very clear. We captured nice shots of flying pelicans, frigate birds, tropic birds and great shots of dolphins swimming next to the ship. I had gone to Africa a few years ago & used primarily 200 film & was not so pleased with some of my photos. I regret immensely in not having invested in a camera with a 300+ lens. The photos would have been wonderful. I do have nice pictures, but they wouldhave been much much better with a better camera. After all, it is a once in a lifetime trip! Also, invest in the recyclable underwater cameras - we took about 4 & found them to be a must have at the Galapagos. You can get them probably for about $16 or less each. We love the shots we got of the sea lions swimming with us, rays turtles, tropical fish by the hundreds, star fish, etc. etc. Well worth it!!! Have a wonderful time & if you have the chance to stay a night at Tinalandia (check their web site & reserve ahead for a tour guide), you will love the rainforest there.

Joan, Which company did you go with, how long was your trip, and what did you think of them? (I have no immediate plans, but would love to do this trip sometime in the next few years...) Thanks. Grace

Grace I suggest you get "A Traveler's guide to the Galapagos Islands" by Barry Boyce. He compares companies, boats, prices and other essentials. It was the best investement before we decided with whomm to go. Because of this book I believe we had such fantastic a trip that will last in our memories forever. <BR> <BR>We used Kodak Max 400 and our photos are gorgeous