Photographic Checklist
Photographic equipment is based on individual preferences, budget and experience and the following information is offered simply as a recommendation. Carrying equipment for every eventuality is also counter-intuitive and is likely to result in your experience being eclipsed by the weight of your camera bag.
Cameras – It is essential that you bring a camera that is already familiar to you. Whether it is a 35mm DSLR or a Micro system is unimportant, what is important is that you know your way around your own camera and understand what its functions are.
Lenses – The most versatile combination for travel shooting is to have two zoom lenses such as a 24-70mm and a 70-200mm - these two lenses cover a range of focal lengths between 24-200mm and will account for 95% of your images. These focal lengths are for a full frame sensor, so if your camera has a smaller sensor you would want the equivalent. Although not essential, a 100mm Macro lens opens up a wider range of opportunities.
Filters – The most useful filters in digital photography are graduated neutral density. These compensate for the inadequate dynamic range of DSLR sensors and prevent bright areas, such as skies from “burning out”. Lee Filters produce an excellent range and the 0.6 soft grad is the most useful for most situations. A polarising filter is also desirable.
Storage – Ensure that you have adequate memory cards and a means of backing up your work, either on a supplementary hard drive or laptop.
Laptop – A laptop will allow you to see what you’ve shot each day and will facilitate critique sessions. A storage media device would offer a smaller, more compact alternative and overcomes the problems travelling with a laptop.
Camera bag – Make sure you bring a suitable camera bag, which allows you to comfortably carry your equipment over rugged terrain. A backpack such as the Lowepro Pro-Trekker Series distributes the weight between your shoulders and hips. These bags feature an all-weather cover giving protection against rain and snow.
Tripod – A tripod is essential equipment for all photographers. Make and model will be subject to individual requirements and budget and for location photography the ultimate is to have rigidity with the lightest weight possible. Carbon fibre tripods by Gitzo and Manfrotto, although expensive, offer the best solution, however aluminium tripods will do the job equally well.
Cable release – Again essential equipment to eradicate camera shake on long exposures.
Spare batteries –Batteries can be charged at our accommodation, however it is makes sense to bring along spare camera batteries to ensure that you maximise your opportunities to take photographs.
Lens cloth – A lens cloth is useful for removing rain or sea spray if it finds its way onto a lens.
