This year I’ve been using the D700 more often than the D300, with the exception of our South Africa trip. I’d forgotten how much I love the lightweight combination of the D300 with my 18-200mm lens for travel photography. It makes a good, versatile kit, with the optional additions of the 70-300mm for a bit more reach for wildlife and the 12-24mm for landscapes or architecture. Despite the fact that the D300 is quite an old camera now (It was released in 2007! Okay, maybe very old), it’s similarity to the D700 (also known as my favourite camera ever) makes me unwilling to upgrade to a newer (lighter, better sensor) DX model. I can’t face giving up a dedicated AF-on button. With the MB-D10 battery pack it goes all day, which is perfect for days where you want to photograph everything!

What reminded me was a wander around Mount Maunganui, which presents opportunities for all sorts of photos – from birds to landscapes! We went over for the evening to have dinner (Kebabs from Turkish 2 Go) and walk around the Base Track. I’ve done another post about this gorgeous tree, but I also had fun photographing Oystercatchers, nesting Black-Backed Gulls, and a few guys circumnavigating the Mount on boards. The 18-200mm was perfect for all of these subjects, although I could have done with a bit more reach for the Osytercatchers!

The 18-200mm isn’t pin-sharp, but it still does very well and makes up for any shortcomings with great range and light weight. That makes it ideal for a travel lens. It’s also suffered a few knocks and drops without any lasting damage – always remember to put your lens hood on! It’s been my constant companion on many trips overseas, and I don’t think I’ll upgrade it any time soon.