Photography Equipment Checklist

Hi, Photo-Genie here,

How many of you would not agree that capturing the beauty of nature with your digital camera is not a gratifying experience?

For me, just breathing in the beauty is rewarding enough, however recapturing those moments in time and then sharing the photos with friends and family doubles the enjoyment.

Just the very idea of it moves me right out of my genie bottle. I get so excited I want to swoop right into the desert to capture photo shots of the wildflowers. Is there anything more beautiful than colorful verbena spread across the desert floor in springtime? Is that not a photographer’s dream?

After a day in the desert, my plan is to zip on over to the coast, perhaps Monterey California. First I’ll take a drive along the famous seven-mile-stretch then I’ll find a cozy cove somewhere to set up my photography equipment.

I’ll spend enough time there (maybe even sleep out under the stars) to use my wide-angle zoom to capture the ocean whitecaps as they crash to the shore. The time is right just before dusk as the sun is setting and then in the early morning just as the sun rises and meets the visible horizon.

I can think of many breathtaking scenic places where I’d like to go to capture fabulous landscape photography shots, the big question is what will I take in the way of photography gear?

I put on my Photo-Genie thinking-cap and came up with a list that goes something like this:

Tripods: For Landscape photography tripods are a must. It’s possible I may want to point and shoot spontaneously, however in most cases I may have to wait for the right moment to appear, this may take hours for the light or shadow to be just right, and I want to be ready.

This is where my tripod is useful. And in situations where the terrain is rugged, a flexible-legged tripod is perfect. This type of tripod can grip on to tree branches or other fluxing surfaces and hold my camera in place.

Filters: Filters are a must-have for landscape photography. They help provide contrast between the land and the sky, otherwise I may not get the effect I desire.

Lenses: I’ve found the best lens is a wide-angle zoom to capture as vast a terrain as possible. A wide-angle is important so I can gain the details at a distance.

Backpacks: I want to purchase a sturdy backpack, one that will carry a sufficient load and have sufficient strength. I want to protect against rugged terrain that may have tree branches that could snag and rip up my bag. So I want to find the toughest bag possible.

Maps: I don’t want to take for granted that I know the terrain, even if I do. I may get caught up with captivating scenes and get lost in my photography shots. I could easily drift into unfamiliar terrain. A map of the area is a must.

Cameras: Now if you are interested in a new camera, I’ve placed two here for you to check out. They are my favorites and if you want more info on either one just click the links or images.

Canon PowerShot A620 Digital Camera
For less than $600 you can have this camera, which is great for both beginner and advanced photographers. This is one of Canon’s best cameras in the A-series and it comes with many great features. A 7.1 mega pixel camera, this is great for those who need pictures with high definition, and you are sure to be pleased with all the exposure controls available too.

Nikon D200 Digital Camera

For those who are truly serious about photography and aren’t afraid spend around a $1000, this Nikon is a great choice. It is a digital SLR that comes with both manual and automatic controls. It is a favorite among many, especially because of the ability to control lighting and take pictures that are amazing.

For more info on photography gear click this link and check out my equipment site

Thanks for dropping by. It’s been great sharing my list with you. I hope I’ve shed a touch of light on photography equipment for you. It’s important to me to hear from you so please drop me a line if you get a chance. Until we meet again…