Alpha Photography Blog

What equipment do you need to take photographs, and what pieces can you aspire to…

Firstly, and the most obvious, is a camera! A previous article has gone through selecting the broad type of camera (compact versus SLR), but in terms of specific types, that is really a matter of personal choice.

For me, one of the most important features (after the quality of images produced) is the speed at which the camera captures the image, and how quickly it recovers to take the next photo.

I have a compact digital camera, which I use for convenience – when I’m too lazy to haul my somewhat bulky SLR to wherever I’m going – and it frustrates me how long it sometimes takes to actually take the photo. I’m not sure what it’s waiting for, but the lag can often mean missing the shot.

I was in London last year and on the last day of the trip, out of nowhere a procession came through Oxford Circus. Thankfully, I already had the compact camera in my hand, and the procession was quite long, as the camera took a few seconds (which can be an eternity for a photographer) to get itself together!

So, one thing I would suggest when looking for a camera, is to test its image taking functionality. Have a good play. If the photography bug really bites you, this camera will eventually become an extension of your hand, so you’ll want it to be comfortable and user friendly.

Other essential equipment

Ø If it’s rechargeable, 1 spare battery, otherwise, for AA batteries, keep a few extras handy;

Ø Digital cameras – 2 or more memory cards (test them out beforehand, in case they corrupt);

Ø Film cameras – as many spare rolls of film as you think you’ll need (then include a few extra);

Ø For SLR cameras – a skylight filter is a must – this protects the lens, so if it gets scratched, the only thing you have to replace is a cheap filter, not an expensive lens; and

Ø Again for SLR cameras – a circular polarising filter. This is particularly useful when photographing in full sunlight, on the water, and on the snow – anywhere there is glare.

Ø Carry bag – there a number of different styles – shoulder bag, sling bag, backpack. Choose whichever is most comfortable for you, but make sure if has decent padding to protect your camera and lens(s).

Non-essential equipment that you may eventually need

Ø Cable release – this is good when using a tripod and you want to completely avoid camera shake. The cable connects to the camera and uses a remote shutter release button.

Ø External flash – sometimes the in-camera flash just won’t cut it, so then an external unit can give you a little more umpf.

Ø Filters – e.g. filters to warm up cold lighting conditions (81A), balance fluorescent light (FL-Day), and manage extremes in lighting (Neutral Density)

Ø Photoshop – in this digital age, some form of photo editing software is becoming a must. I personally use Photoshop, and while not the most intuitive program, it has almost endless editing possibilities, once you’ve learnt how to use it.

       Ø Studio – equipment, backgrounds and lighting. This might be a little down the track if you want to turn photography into a business.

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