Several years have passed since I went to really nice zoo. This time I go with photography in mind. I should learn something from the adventure and trials of photography. This is the plan: 2 days to see the zoo. First day I plan to take my 18-130mm lens(27-195mm equivalent in 35mm). If it looks like a longer lens is needed, the second day I will be carrying along the heavy full frame 100-300mm with a monopod. Does that sound like a plan? I think so...we will see. I am not totally used to the longer lens and have difficulty with steadiness in offhand shots..practice, practice. So, the monopod will be part of it. For me, this will be a chance to learn more about my photo abilities with good subjects seen without stalking! : ) Any advice from "seasoned" zoo-photogs is appreciated. TomDart.

Tom , What zoo are you going to shoot at ? most of them are getting pretty animal friendly so finding out feeding time is a must unless you like seeing furry behinds hiding in the tall grass or naping. I would sugest you call the zoo fist and get the skinny on photographing from them . They also have special walk throughs if you give advanced notice and you even get to area's normal people do not see.

Try not to go when it is about 1 PM and too hot...they nap a lot then.Best is early mornings. You get good light then too.
I have a gallery of when I went to our zoo and this was around noon to 1:30 all a bit lazy... have a browse if you like.Greater Vancouuver Zoo
Bring a flash too. Remember how people can be walking in front of your lens...

"The happiness of a man in this life does not consist in the absence but in the mastery of his passions."

I always have photography in mind when I go to local zoo...armed and ready! Try to get the animal(s) in its natural surrounding meaning, dont get giveaways in the shot...the shot looks more natural that way. Remember, dont use flash thru the wires...that will show them up! Lastly, enjoy it:)

Also, get a good vantage point. I usually stay for around 15-30 mins once I have got the 'animal' I want. You just never know what will happen! If shooting thru glass, hold the lens as close as possible to the glass (up against it is better!)...again, no flash!!

Attached Link: http://www.renderosity.com/viewed.ez?galleryid=1055253&Start=1&Sectionid=8&filter_genre_id=0&WhatsN

Tom, this is a perfect example of what I mean... guarantee something will happen with a lil babe around...well worth the waiting!!