Hi everyone! This is my first blog post! I am new to this but I am slowly coming around and figuring it all out. I just applied on the 2010 International Learning Mission to Tanzania that will take place in May. My photo teacher Ingram Barss had forwarded an email for all students in applied arts and new media programs at NSCC about a week ago regarding the Tanzania Mission. I am not sure how many people have applied on this trip, but it was quite a bit of work to come up with the right answers to the brief questions asked. The purpose of this mission is to go over to Tanzania with a group of "Health and Human Services" student's to educate the youth of Tanzania on HIV and Aids precautions and prevention. There is also a group of "Tourism" student's going to Tanzania along with the "Health and Human Services Students" to learn about International tourism and development. Where do I come in??? They need 4 AANM students to effectively document the learning experiences in Tanzania for further promotion and awareness. I am praying I get this wonderful opportunity to take part in this mission! Africa is a place I have always dreamed of visiting. Although the continent is surrounded by poverty and war, its jaw dropping natural beauty is enough to convince any young photographer to check it out. Everyone keep your fingers crossed for me!

This week I've been thinking about purchasing a new telephoto lens to add to my arsenal. Realizing that without a fitting telephoto lens, I would be held back photographically in Tanzania..purchasing a high quality telephoto lens for my A700 seems to be a necessity at this point with my nature photography in the present and for the future of my work. Here is the question...I have two options, one is the Sal 70-200mm f2.8 and the other is the Sal 70-400mm 4-5.6. The 70-200 is probably the best choice for low light and balanced work but the 70-400 seems more practical for what I love doing. Both lenses go for around 2000$ but the 70-400 is roughly 200$ cheaper. I am looking at a payment plan through Sony Canada to pay this lens off over 6 months. Any opinions on this purchase would be much appreciated. Thanks for checking my stuff out guys!