Photography Gear
The following list of photography equipment and accessories is what I carry and is recommended for all photography tours. You are not required to bring all these items but it is a well-rounded assortment that meets the various and changing demands of every location and environment we explore. I'm partial to Nikon but whatever DSLR or mirrorless system you use is fine.
CAMERA
Nikon D800
Hold in your hands an HD-SLR able to capture images rivaled only by those produced with a medium-format camera: extremely low noise, incredible dynamic range and the most faithful colors. Meet the Nikon D800, a 36.3 megapixel, FX-format, HD-SLR for professional photographers who require end results of the highest quality, who demand superior performance, speed, handling and a fully integrated imaging system. Full description from NikonUSA.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f4 ED VR Lens
Covering a versatile array of wide-angle focal lengths, the AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR from Nikon is a flexible zoom ideal for landscape, cityscape, and interior photography. Its constant f/4 maximum aperture maintains consistent illumination throughout the zoom range and suits working in a variety of lighting conditions. The optical design contains three aspherical elements and two extra-low dispersion elements, which greatly reduce distortion and aberrations for a high degree of sharpness, clarity, and accurate rendering. A Nano Crystal Coat has also been applied to control flare and ghosting for greater contrast and color accuracy in harsh lighting and backlit conditions. Additionally, this lens also sports a Silent Wave Motor for fast and accurate autofocus along with VR II image stabilization to minimize the appearance of camera shake by 2.5 stops. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
A fast aperture standard zoom lens designed for photojournalism and general photography with wide-angle to portrait length perspectives. Optimized for edge-to-edge sharpness on both the Nikon FX (full-frame) and DX-format image sensors it provides the 35mm focal length equivalence of 36-105mm on DX-format cameras. The f2.8 maximum aperture is effective in low light and creates a shallow depth of field with pleasing out-of-focus highlights enhanced by a rounded 9-blade diaphragm. The optical design includes three ED (Extra-low Dispersion) elements and Precision Glass Mold (PGM) aspherical lenses that help control chromatic aberrations while enhancing sharpness and contrast, even at the widest aperture settings. Nano Crystal and Super Integrated lens coatings enhance light transmission, reducing flare and ghosting. The internal focus system and Silent Wave Motor (SWM) feature provide swift autofocus with superior accuracy and ultra-quiet operation. Direct manual focus override enables fast and simple control over precise focus. Minimum focus is just 15" throughout the zoom range. This G-type lens does not feature an aperture ring on the lens body, resulting in a lighter and more compact lens. The filter diameter on this lens is 77mm and a large petal-shaped lens hood is included. Weather and dust resistant sealing add to its appeal as one of the most highly regarded and versatile lenses in the Nikon stable. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 80-400mm f4.5-5.6G ED VR Lens
Summing up several telephotos in one convenient zoom, the AF-S NIKKOR 80-400mm f/4.5-5.6G ED VR from Nikon is a versatile lens covering portrait-length to super-telephoto focal lengths. Characterized by an advanced optical design, this lens uses one super extra-low dispersion element and four extra-low dispersion elements to noticeably reduce chromatic aberrations and color fringing throughout the zoom range for improved clarity. Both Nano Crystal and Super Integrated Coatings have also been applied to control flare and ghosting in order to increase contrast and color accuracy in bright and backlit conditions. A Silent Wave Motor AF system produces fast, near-silent focusing performance that suits both stills shooting and movie recording, which can instantly be manually overridden by simply turning the manual focus ring. Further contributing to photographing in fast-paced situations and difficult lighting, Vibration Reduction image stabilization compensates for the effects of camera shake by up to four shutter speed stops. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
FILTERS
NiSi 77mm Ti Enhanced Landscape Circular Polarizing Filter
The 77mm Ti Enhanced Landscape Circular Polarizer Filter Titanium Frame from NiSi helps to reduce reflections and glare by filtering out light that has become polarized due to reflection from a non-metallic surface. The light from the sun naturally becomes partially polarized due to reflecting off electrons in air molecules, causing the light to scatter into what appears as haze. A polarizing filter arranges and filters this directionally polarized light perpendicularly to the reflected light, allowing for the absorption of much of this light. This results in a noticeable reduction of glare and reflections from non-metallic surfaces and an increase in the saturation of skies and foliage. Purchase here.
NiSi 77mm Circular Neutral Density Long Exposure Kit
The NiSi 77mm Circular Long Exposure Filter Kit features four circular ND filters the NiSi HUC PRO Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND8 (0.9) 3 Stop, NiSi HUC PRO Nano IR ND64 CPL Multifunctional Filter 6 Stop, the NiSi Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND1000 (3.0) 10 Stop and NiSi Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND32000 (4.5) 15 Stop. The kit allows you to get creative, control shutter speed to create motion effects and long exposures. It includes a Circular Filter Pouch for easy storage of the filters in the kit. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.6 Filter (2-Stop)The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.6 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 2-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.9 Filter (3-Stop)
The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.9 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 3-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 1.2 Filter (4-Stop)
The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 1.2 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 4-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi V7 ALPHA 100mm Aluminum Filter Holder
The NiSi V7 ALPHA 100mm Aluminum Filter Holder continues the success of our very popular V7 Holder. The V7 Alpha is the easiest way to get started with the NiSi 100mm filter system, offering great value to get you started with filters.
The NiSi V7 ALPHA is designed to use 100mm wide filters that are 2mm thick and can support 3 filters 100mm wide and 2mm thick. Included is an 82mm adaptor ring to allow the holder to connect to any lens with an 82mm standard filter thread. The holder can be combined with our V7 adaptor rings to allow the use of sizes from 49mm to 77mm (Sold separately).
The holder features our superior left to right pressed clip design, allowing filters to be very smoothly inserted and removed. The holder can be rotated 360 degrees to allow graduated neutral density filters to be rotated for perfect placement with a horizon and light source.
Purchase here.TRIPOD & HEAD
EXPLORER EX-ACPRO Ascent Professional Carbon Fibre Tripod
The Explorer Ascent Professional Carbon Fibre Tripod is our largest and most suitable for larger photography setups where stability is the main objective. It's perfect for maintaining no shake in windy conditions for landscape photographers, and just as ideal for impressive stability in the studio. The large load capacity of up to 26kg (57.32lbs) ensures high stability in a multitude of conditions, whether that be in the studio or out exploring the landscape. The 10X layer carbon fibre provides rigidity but keeps the weight low.
Each leg is attached to the tripod's collar via an offset leg joint that helps to evenly distribute heavy loads and maintain the tripod's rigidity. The joints and collar are constructed of lightweight anodized aluminum, which aside from lending inherent strength to the tripod, also provides it with natural wear and corrosion resistance. Each one of the three leg joints also features a variable angle stop that allows multiple shooting positions.
The flat mount can be swapped for the EX-ACPROCC centre column (available separately) if more height is required. Additional weights or a camera bag can be mounted to the centre hook to add extra weight for windy conditions. 3/8" and 1/4" accessory ports are included on the centre junction to mount accessories such as the Explorer Sidekick magic arm. The flat mount features a 3/8" stud that will accept most tripod heads.
4 sections extend to create a high maximum working height and collapse to ensure a portable carry. 3 leg angles selections can be made to settle the tripod on uneven terrain and also to allow for super low angle shooting when the legs are splayed out.
EXPLORER EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head
The Explorer EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head is the ultimate professional ball head built for the most challenging tasks. A key feature is a hollowed-out body and ball socket designed to minimize weight at just a total of 562g (19.8oz), while maximizing strength, durability, and load capacity at 40kg (88.2lbs). This makes the EX-XL Epic Explorer suitable for supporting larger telephoto lenses while being lightweight enough to carry and use with camera bodies and lens combinations of all sizes. Ball heads increase stability compared to other head types and provide faster, more accurate camera rotation for the photographers. The head tilts 90° for portrait orientation quickly and easily.
The large main adjustment knob features a rubber grip with friction control and a separate 360° panning clamp to assist with fast, precise adjustments, so you never miss the action. The ARCA / RRS compatible quick release clamp makes it compatible with a large range of quick release plates and L-brackets and includes an Explorer EX-60 QR plate in the box. A 3/8” thread socket and included 1/4”-3/8” brushing suits tripods from many manufacturers.
The clamp features the same hollowed-out design of the ball head and an extra-large release lock so the camera does not obstruct the release. The Explorer EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head is CNC-machined from an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and anodized with an oxidation treatment that ensures a durable, high-quality finish.
Purchase here.
CAMERA BAGS
Lowepro Photo Classic BP 300 AW Backpack
The Lowepro Pro Runner 300 AW Backpack is designed to carry and protect a digital SLR camera body with attached lens (up to 70-200mm f2.8) plus 3-4 additional lenses or flash, accessories, tripod or mono-pod and personal items. It is made from weather-resistant 600 denier square rip-stop polyester with a padded interior plus removable, padded inserts and adjustable dividers. The pack has an All Weather AW Cover that protects the camera gear from the elements. It also has rain flap lids that covers the zippered closure and offers added weather protection. There is a Hideaway Tripod Mount with foldout holder that secures a compact tripod or mono-pod. The SlipLock attachment loops will allow the addition of optional accessories. The Pro Runner 300 AW has a front organization pocket that offers quick access to personal items such as, a light jacket, cell phone or an MP3 player, an inside lid with memory card and organization pockets and mesh side pockets. It is carried by adjustable, padded shoulder straps with a moisture-wicking, thickly padded back pad and a tuck-away waist strap. Full description from Adorama.
ACCESSORIES
Nikon MC-30A Remote Trigger Release
The MC-30A Remote Trigger Release from Nikon is a remote shutter release cable for select Nikon cameras. It features a trigger lock mechanism for unlimited time exposures. The MC-30A has a 10-pin plug and works with any Nikon with a 10-pin remote port. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
Nikon D800 Batteries
The Nikon EN-EL15 Lithium-Ion Battery is a rechargeable battery for Nikon cameras. Lithium-ion batteries will not suffer from the adverse memory effects that are normally associated with other battery types. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
SunwayFoto Custon L-Bracket
SUNWAYFOTO® brand Arca / RRS compatible PNL-D800R L plate for Nikon D800, D800E D810 cameras. Precision CNC machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum. Mounting screw: 1/4-20″. Dovetail Width: 39mm. Upper Width: 60.49mm. Height: 83.5mm. Weight: 82g. Length 114.5mm. All metal construction. Includes 1/4" screw 4 x Safety stop screws 2 & allen wrenches. Ideal for RRS Lever Clamps. See more from Amazon.
SunwayFoto Arca Clamp
SUNWAYFOTO brand Arca compatible MAC-14 60mm Clamp. Very versatile Jaw opening range of 37.25mm to 41.5mm will accommodate any Arca style plate from various makers including: Really right stuff (RRS), Wimberley, Arca, Kirk Enterprises, Markins, etc. Plus the Manfrotto Bogen slot lets you mount Bogen 3517N / Manfrotto 200PL-14 RC2 plates. 3/8" mounting hole and 1/4" adapter. Can be used on virtually any head, tripod or monopod. See more from Amazon.
Nikon DK19 Rubber Eye Cup
The Nikon DK-19 Rubber Eyecup allows for more comfortable viewing through the camera's viewfinder, especially for eyeglass wearers. Less stray light enters the viewfinder and a less flared, clearer image with which to compose your shot is provided. The DK-19 installs easily and is compatible with the Nikon D2 and D3 DSLR series, the D4, D700 and D800 DSLR's and the F6 SLR camera. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
SanDisk Extreme Pro CompactFlash Memory Cards
The 16GB Extreme Pro CompactFlash Memory Card from SanDisk features enhanced data read speeds of up to 160MB/s along with data write speeds up to 150MB/s. This Extreme Pro CompactFlash Card is designed to support both full HD and 4K video as it is VPG-65 certified. VPG-65 (video performance guarantee) offers sustained data write speeds of 65MB/s ensuring a smooth flow of data keeping video streams crisp and clean. This CompactFlash card is also compatible with both RAW and JPEG file formats and comes equipped with an RTV silicone coating and writable label. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
SanDisk Extreme Pro SDHC Memory Cards
Designed for SD devices that can capture Full HD video, as well as RAW and burst photography, the 16GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDHC Memory Card from SanDisk has a capacity of 16GB, is compatible with the UHS-I bus, and features a speed class rating of U3, which guarantees minimum write speeds of 30 MB/s. Read speeds are supported up to 95 MB/s and write speeds max out at 90 MB/s. Built for extreme conditions, SanDisk's 16GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDHC Memory Card is water, shock, x-ray, and temperature proof to help protect your data. A built-in write protect switch further helps to safeguard your content, while advanced Error Correction Code engine offers improved data integrity and card reliability during read and write operations. This memory card includes downloadable RescuePRO data recovery software, which is good for one year of use and helps you restore accidentally deleted images. The card is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
Delkin USB 3.0 Dual Slot SD UHS-II & CF Memory Card Reader
The USB 3.0 Dual Slot SD UHS-II and CF Memory Card Reader from Delkin Devices can transfer data from Compact Flash and SD cards at the same time to your computer via USB 3.0. The USB 3.0 interface can download data at speeds up to 500 MB/s that is ten times faster than USB 2.0. If your computer doesn't support USB 3.0, this card reader is backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1, but will transfer data at a slower rate. Delkin has designed the SD slot with a second row of connectors to improve speed and performance, while also allowing for backwards compatibility with non UHS-II cards. The other slot reads Compact Flash cards, which supports UDMA 7 and VPG. The Delkin memory card reader is plug-and-play compatible and provides a fast way to read and save videos, images, and more to SD and CF cards. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
MacBook Pro
Designed for those who defy limits and change the world, the 16-inch MacBook Pro is by far the most powerful notebook we have ever made. With an immersive Retina display, superfast processors, advanced graphics, the largest battery capacity ever in a MacBook Pro, Magic Keyboard, and massive storage, it's the ultimate pro notebook for the ultimate user. See more from Apple.
G-Technology 5TB Portable G-Drive
Designed for those who need portable storage for their photos, videos, music, documents, and more, the space gray 5TB G-DRIVE mobile USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C External Hard Drive from G-Technology provides users with 5TB of plug-and-play storage and a USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C interface that supports data transfer speeds of up to 140 MB/s. It comes preformatted HFS+ for macOS 10.11 and later and can also be used with Windows 10, 8.1, and 7 via a simple reformat. The G-DRIVE mobile is compatible with the Thunderbolt 3 interface, is powered solely using the USB or Thunderbolt bus, and comes housed in an aluminum case. Included is a USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable and a USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable that are compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1, which is also known as USB 3.0. See more from B&H Photo Video.
Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom Creative Cloud
Lightroom is the cloud-based service that gives you everything you need to create, edit, organize, store, and share your photos across any device. Capture, edit, and share your photos all from one place. Lightroom can manage any number of photos so you’ll always stay organized and on top of your game. Photoshop is included with the $9.99/month Adobe Creative Cloud plan. See more from Adobe.
Photographic Solutions Sensor Swab Ultra Cleaning Kit
Combining all of the necessary tools to keep your camera's sensor clean, this Sensor Swab ULTRA Kit from Photographic Solutions includes four Type 3 Sensor Swabs ULTRA, 10 PECPADs, 1 e-Wipe Pad packet, and a 0.5 oz bottle of Eclipse Optic Cleaner, all of which is neatly packed inside a nylon zippered travel pouch. The included Type 3 individually wrapped Sensor Swabs ULTRA that are specifically designed for image sensors measuring 24mm high, such as FX or Full-Frame sensors. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
B+W Photo Clear Cloth
Maintain your optical equipment in peak condition with this poly/nylon microfiber cloth woven into a thick, durable fabric. Free of chemicals and lint, the silky soft Photo-Clear Cloth cleans gently but thoroughly. Its microscopic texture is designed to cut through dirt and residue while lifting oil and moisture away from the surface via capillary action. An accessory of frequently underestimated importance for imaging performance, this cloth is suitable for use with photo equipment such as optical filters and camera lenses, as well as binoculars, telescopes and coated eyeglasses. The cloth comes with a protective plastic envelope and it can be washed in an environmentally safe manner and reused without losing any of its properties. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
Kata E-702 PL Rain Bag
The E-702 PL is a practical protective cover for a DSLR with up to a 70-200mm lens attached. Quickly slip it over your camera and keep shooting in rainy or dusty conditions. The simple intuitive design allows you to view and access all camera and lens controls. Full description from Amazon.
Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool
The Leatherman Wingman is just that: your go-to tool for projects around the house, on the job, or at the campsite. A great, lightweight, pocket-sized, stainless steel tool; the Wingman features an outside-accessible, one-hand opening blade and newly-designed spring-action jaws. With plenty of handy tools, and backed by a team of designers, assemblers, and manufacturing crew from Portland, Oregon, this is one amazing value. Covered by the Leatherman 25-year warranty. Full description from Leatherman.
Mini Maglite Flashlight
Small, Simple, But Scorchingly bright Introducing the all-new MINI MAGLITE AAA LED Flashlight. The heir to the original Mini Maglite 2AAA flashlight launched 25 years ago, this newest member of the family features the same classic look and size and the same simple operation just twist the head to turn it on, turn it off and focus the beam. But thanks to a latest-generation LED light engine, it produces a beam whose intensity is nothing short of amazing from a pocket-clippable flashlight that's not much bigger than a penlight. Full description from Maglite.
Lifeline UltraLight Survival Kit
At only 5.5oz, this ultralight survival kit is conveniently packed into a weather resistant roll-up bag to keep you safe without weighing you down. Full description from Lifeline.
LifeStraw
LifeStraw is ideal for hiking, backpacking, camping, travel, and emergency preparedness. The straw-style filter design lets you turn up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water into safe drinking water. Full description from LifeStraw.
REI MultiTowel Lite
REI MultiTowel Lite is soft, highly absorbent, quick drying and ultralight! It's ideal for travel, backpacking, camping, yoga sessions, and the gym. Towel absorbs up to 8 times its weight in water, yet wrings out almost completely dry. Ultrasoft synthetic fabric is very light and compact, taking up very little space in your backpack or bag. Quick-attach loop makes it easy to hang the towel to dry. The REI MultiTowel Lite comes in a small carry pouch. Full description from REI.
