The N-Photo experts say…

Wide-angle zoom

Take the best ultra-wide zoom lens you can. The 14-24mm f/2.8 is a great lens, but for DX bodies Tokina offers sharp lenses that go ultra-wide, too. The zoom lenses give you room to breathe without having to compose with your feet, so to speak.

Be adaptable

If, like Brandon, you only have a day or two to get your shots, you have to be adaptable. Check weather forecasts before heading out and be prepared to switch gears (or even gear) mid-shoot to make the most of what’s happening around you.

Tripod

Even during the brightest days, stopping down to f/16 and ISO50 can produce underexposed shots, so it’s always worth taking your tripod. Once you have the Nikon steadied, it doesn’t matter how slow you go with the shutter speed.

Timing

The Firefall event happens for a few days in February, and there are many other times around the world where optical phenomena occur fleetingly for a days or even a few minutes. Be prepared for competition, though.