advice on shooting in africa

[Jerry Ireland]

wondering if anyone has much experience on shooting in africa (or other hot and dusty environs)? i am moving to Zambia in a few weeks, have an eos 30d w/ canon 70-200 2.8, and tamron 17-55 2.8. i was a photojournalist in the late 80's (in the film era) and got out of the business. am returning to photography and have just jumped head first into digital arena. i love it (this whole digital business that is), but i never worried about my f3's failing when shooting in iraq (yes...i have also made the rare leap from nikon to canon). but, i am a bit concerned about how this digital equipment will hold up under adverse conditions. any of you experts out there that might offer a morsel of advice on this - i should be forever grateful!

[Martin_Kristiansen]

I have some experience having lived in South Africa just about all my life.

I dont think you will find Zambia either as hot or as dusty as Iraq. Conditions in Africa vary a great deal. In my studio today it is a chilly 12 C. Zambia never gets that cold. The problem is the moment you start moving in Africa. Roads are often poor and frequently dirt. Lots of opportunity for things to bounce and rattle about. Hard cases with good foam packing and dust seals are important. I hate shiny new cases and bags, they just draw attention. Repairs will be an issue, Johannesburg will be your best bet if things go wrong, there is a full Canon service facilty here. If you would like drop me a note and I will be able to supply details and get you set up with the correct people. Zambia is on 220 V electricity by the way. I travel around with an arctic butterfy to keep dust under controll.

I have lived in Israel, the U.S.A. and England. I dont think Africa is any big deal and doesnt present any unusual difficulties that common sense wont sort out. Unless you are cycling that is. I rode a bicycle from Israel to South Africa 12 years ago and from Dar Es Salaam to the south Tanzanian border 4 years ago. That kind of stuff kills cameras but unless you plan something like that the info is tedious and very specific. Let me know.

[Martin_Kristiansen]

Replied to your note but received a notification of delivery failure for some or other reason. Will resend tomorrow.