For most of my career, I used only three or four lenses. But recently, my kit has nearly doubled. Maybe it’s because I now live in Kenya and keep my gear on the continent where I work. Or maybe it’s the tempting new lenses my guests bring along that I can’t resist trying.
One of the most common questions I get is: Which lens should I bring? There’s never a simple answer as everyone has their vision of an outcome. So I thought I’d share what’s currently in my bag or on my shelves, why I chose each lens, and how I use them in the field.
NIKON 400mm f/2.8
When I head into the Maasai Mara on my own, this is the first piece of gear I reach for. It’s a fixed 400mm, which means no zoom. I need to anticipate and compose with intent. The vehicle must be lined up perfectly. But that’s exactly what I love about it.
It’s also the fastest of the big lenses, and the way it renders bokeh is stunning, creamy, soft, and natural. That shallow depth of field allows the subject to leap off the frame, isolating moments with clarity and emotion.
NIKON 180–400mm f/4 with built-in 1.4x extender (effective 500mm f/5.6)
This is my go-to lens when I’m leading tours. My priority is positioning the vehicle for my guests to have the best light and background. The versatility of this zoom range allows me to make quick adjustments and still capture strong images while supporting others.
NIKON 70–200mm f/2.8
This is my workhorse. It’s usually mounted on one of my two camera bodies, whether I’m photographing wildlife or tribes. Sharp, fast, and reliable, it rarely leaves my side.
NIKON 24–70mm f/2.8
Another staple, this lens is ideal for both wildlife and tribal photography. It allows me to get close enough to create wide-angle portraits with expansive, storytelling backgrounds.
NIKON 135mm f/1.8
This is a new addition I’m excited about. I first saw it in action when a client brought it on my last Best of the Omo expedition, and I couldn’t resist adding it to my arsenal for the upcoming Signature Suri Expedition. I’ll primarily use it for tribal portraits, where that wide aperture can really shine.
NIKON 28mm f/2.8
The newest piece in my kit, and it’s tiny, which makes it hard to say no. I often use the 24–70mm at 24mm for wide-angle portraits, so if this little prime performs well, the 24–70 might get tucked away more often.
NIKON 14–30mm f/2.8
I find myself using this lens less and less. I tend to get too close to my subjects, and at 14mm the distortion can be extreme. There’s a fine line between making your subject prominent in the frame and maintaining an infinity background. I usually find myself switching to 24mm for a more natural look.
Yes, there is a consistency in my choices of lenses with a fixed aperture of 2.8. You can read read more about this in my past article “Why fast glass is critical for a successful safari!”