Suggestions on photo equipment.

[Skiddah]

For several year I have packed my camera along for all the hikes and backpacking trips that I have taken. While many or most of my photos come out pretty good, there are always some that don't.

A large number of these are photos with a lot of blue sky or haze in them. Obviously, there are UV and Polarizing filters that I could use. But I don't really know much about the different filters.

I could probably ask someone in a photo shop about them, but thought I would pose the question here first. Obviously, Darren has a real talent for taking some awesome pictures. Any advice here?

btw, I use a Minolta Vectis S-1, which uses APS film. The camera is fairly light considering its size. It is weatherproof, and the aps format seems convenient for the trail. I have a 50mm macro lens, a 28-56 zoom lens (now superglued at 28), and a 56-170mm zoom. I will shortly have a Canon EOS Rebel X with a 28-80mm zoom lens, but don't have any experience with it yet.

Oh, and another question about cameras on hiking trips... Has anyone else figured out a good way to pack a camera along so that it is available for using while you hike? I could bury it in the pack, but then it would be useless most of the time. I have been packing it in a Tamrac belt pouch type bag that I strapped to the front of my shoulder straps. This has some limitations since all the lenses don't fit well in the bag (hence the 28-56 zoom lens that is stuck at 28).

Thanks,

 

[ALGonquin Bob]

advice

I use AND sell that stuff. When I carry my SLR (single lens reflex) camera, I use a fanny pack that I keep in front or to the side. The best filter to use to cut through UV light, reduce glare, and improve the general look of your photos is a CIRCULAR polarizing filter. The effect can be dramatic, especially on a sunny day. You can see the effect through the viewfinder. Do go to a camera store with knowledgable people. I'm sure that they will recommend the right thing for you. -ALG

 

[Mad Townie]

Bags

You'll find all kinds of camera packs at photo shops. I use a Lowe that's made to accommodate a longish (150 - 300) zoom lens. The front pocket holds my 28 - 105 and a couple rolls of film, and the inside top zip pocket holds a filter or two.

The pack has D-rings on the top and side, so I put one strap around my neck and the other around my back. That holds the pack squarely on the front of my chest with the cover opening away from me. I've carried it that way on long skis into Baxter and on some fairly serious crampon climbs, as well as for long backpack trips and even on safari in Tanzania.

If I'm expecting light rain (or serious dust as in Africa) I pack the camera first in a big zip-loc bag, then put that into the pack. For heavy rain I put it away.