Billy, Good call on the Sony. I was also looking at their lineup and what one gets for the money spent is substantial. Third party glass is available in most sizes except for the big stuff. My group sure doesn't need big or expensive glass.

I find it interesting that I keep plugging my criteria into my friend's decision. I am not sure that is a good idea. I am finding that I am fairly biased in my camera gear philosophy. There is a lot of satisfaction available in choices of gear that I personally would not use. That must be why I am not a camera salesman; I would be lousy at it.

Rick--Do remember that rental glass is harder (impossible?) to come by for Sony so for your safari friends if they want to rent longish lenses, that affects things. Also local expertise will be less in case they need help or parts or repairs. That said, I do like the cameras for the money!--David

David, I agree with you regarding all the complications that go along with using a "second tier" camera brand. But now, here we are imposing our thoughts on to the needs of others when their needs are much less demanding than our needs. I personally am not a fan of "second tier" product. There are very different criteria for the recreational shooter versus the "pros". I will not be offering the Sony to my friends as an alternative purchase. I am sticking with either black glass or white glass.

You did bring up an interesting point concerning rental gear. Is there a service in Africa that rents gear, all of it, all inclusive, to vacationers? The person could rent the same gear here in the states and gain some familiarity and then pick up their rental gear when they arrive in country. Are you doing anything like that with your clients? Does it exist? I can see the inherent problems mounting as I think about the idea but it still intriguing.

Rick--FWIW, I don't actually think of Sony as second tier at this point, mostly just less extensive than Nikon or Canon. They bought the SLR operations of Minolta to get jump-started who always had nice cameras. That said agree with your point about putting our biases on others.

I don't know of a comprehensive rental service in Africa for tourists. We've done some long lens renting both there and in Alaska for folks (forum member David Ramey is/was doing some in Alaska) but not an entire entry level package. Interesting idea though for someone to start up.

If I may insert a thought or two...
We started with the D70s camera.
And the 70-300 ED, not the G model.
(VR version could also be considered but is
more money...)
This lens really launched us into birding...
and, with a tripod I came to enjoy closeup
with this lens (also with the 5t & 6t closeup
diopters).

I mention this as your friends could find a
nice used camera, or even two different cameras,
and lenses, for a very inexpensive setup.

As beginners our "sharpness" and "bokeh" and...
expectations differed greatly from what they are today.
The 28-105 is a very nice lens as well.
Two cameras and lenses can be had for probably under
$800 or $900...(so they don't have to change lenses).
This might also give everyone the opportunity to photograph
something on the trip. And this is a fairly lightweight option
which can produce very nice pictures...
Just another thought to consider regarding beginners
expectations, and enjoyment with simple tools.

Chayelle, Very interesting observations and good thoughts. It gives them backup equipment in case of a camera failure in the field and keeps all the kids busy. Thanks for the valid contribution. You have definitely broadened the options.