MAKE ESSENTIAL EQUIPMENT CHOICES

Learn to choose what gear to pack based on your destination and the images you aim to capture

Gear selection is a critical decision when the photographer will be travelling with limited space and weight allowance, as is so often the case when leaving base for an extended period. When it is not practical to carry every piece of equipment in our arsenal, we have to intelligently pick items that allow us to cover as many potential imaging opportunities and conditions as possible. While a choice of camera body is relatively uncomplicated – these will likely have been purchased with specific functions and portability demands in mind – lenses and accessories can be harder to narrow down. If you intend to specialise in travel photography, then the camera you buy should reflect the balance of quality and weight that falls within the standard requirements for making images on the move.

One of the first considerations will be to select a full-frame model or one with a smaller sensor. APS-C format cameras generally have reduced proportions and the smaller sensor permits use of smaller-diameter lenses. It is also arguably more flexible in terms of allowing relatively wide-angle images, in addition to providing extra magnification in telephoto compositions. The next choice is to select a DSLR or a mirrorless system, the latter of which is better suited to capturing high-quality images with a diminutive camera body. The compact system cameras (CSCs) of today are available with multiple sensor sizes and are able to match and exceed the quality expected from a professional DSLR.

When choosing a range of lenses to accompany you on your travels, make decisions based on probable conditions. Photographer Teresa Sadurni (500px.com/ teresasadurni, instagram.com/la_3a) explains her gear selection philosophy: “The most important considerations are the destination and the kind of photographs I think I will take. I always take my 17-70mm, and sometimes I add the 70-300mm, and others the 11-21mm. I consider the means of transport – if I use buses or have to walk a lot I try to restrict it a bit, whereas if it’s a trip with a car, or even train, I don’t.” While it is tempting to assume that more gear will reduce missed opportunities on a time-dependant shoot, increased weight can be a hindrance and restricts freedom of movement.

Above CLEAR FOCUS Fast prime lenses are a popular choice for pro travel photographers, as these allow both low-light handheld freedom and shallow depth, highlighting a clear subject

Below TOOLS FOR THE JOB While image quality and camera functionality are of great importance, the ability to be discreet is critical to access certain compositions, where professional-looking equipment will draw unwanted attention