EQUIPMENT

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Cameras

35mm, medium format, large format and digital are all appropriate. If you have two cameras bring them both. Many of our participants shoot both film and digital at the same workshop. It's a good idea to have your cameras checked out by a qualified repair shop to make sure that the lenses, shutters, and meters are working properly. Your camera manufacturer will have local listings. It is important to shoot a "test" roll of film, or for digital check your compact flash cards and download program prior to doing a photo workshop. Try to be thoroughly familiar with your equipment!

Lenses

For 35mm cameras a wide-angle lens (20-24mm) will enable you to record broad landscape views. A normal focal length lens (55mm) and a zoom lens (35-200mm) will prove very useful as well. In some cases a special-purpose lens such as a macro lens will come in handy. Remember, with most digital SLRs the size of the lens must be multiplied by 1.5 or 1.6 (depending on the camera) to equate to 35mm cameras so adjust your lens choices accordingly.

Film

For landscape photography you will do best to use film with an ASA of 100 or less. Slide or print films are both good. Publications such as Arizona Highways use slide film almost exclusively. The important thing is to bring a good supply of film. Examples of good film are Fuji Velvia (ASA 50), which is a saturated film especially good for landscape, and Fuji Provia (ASA 100 or 400) which is more neutral and good for photographing people.

Tripod and Cable Release

A sturdy tripod is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED, both for camera steadiness during long exposures and to allow your instructor to see your composition. Bring at least one cable release.

Filters

The light in Arizona is unique, and proper filters will allow you to achieve results otherwise impossible. A polarizing filter will reduce reflections and saturate color. Warming filters will enhance browns, gold and oranges (examples: 81A, 81B, 81C, KR3 and KR6). A protective filter such as a 'skylight' or 'haze' filter is good to keep on the lens at all times. A graduated neutral-density filter is also useful.

Digital Equipment

Often you will be out in the field shooting for a good part of the day. Having sufficient compact flash cards (or whatever storage device your camera uses) and battery power will keep you in business. Shooting 200 or more images in a day is a distinct possibility, especially if you bracket. Be sure to bring a battery charger and, unless you have an ample supply of compact flash cards, a device for downloading.

Batteries

Most of our locations are miles from the nearest store, so it is imperative to bring at least one spare set of batteries for each piece of equipment. If you are shooting digital exclusively bring at least 2 extra batteries. Also, don't forget that digital SLR's also use a button battery to power the LCD so be sure to bring an extra.

Light Meter

Your in-camera meter should work well. If you have a spot meter and/or an incident meter, be sure to bring them.

Miscellaneous - BRING THE MANUAL FOR YOUR CAMERA.

If you have a question, it can be answered more easily if you have your manual. Also, if possible, bring extra lens caps. Arizona is beautiful but dusty; you should come prepared to clean your equipment in the field. Consider bringing canned air, a lens cloth, liquid lens cleaner and a soft blower-brush. Make certain that all of your equipment is fully operational. Again, if you have not used a camera for awhile, we suggest processing a roll of film or downloading some images before you come. Double check shutters, in-camera metering, lens coupling, battery terminals, etc. Bring a hat and sunscreen! Comfortable hiking or walking shoes are a must. Optional but useful items are: kneepads or a cloth to kneel on, a soft cloth to wipe the exterior of your camera, a shower cap or Saran Wrap elastic covers to put over your camera in dust storms, and rain gear for yourself and your camera. Please feel free to call us! We are always glad to hear from you and will do our best to answer your questions.