Photography Gear
The following list of photography equipment and accessories is recommended for all Costa Rica and Pacific Northwest photography workshops. You are not required to bring all these items but it is a well-rounded assortment that meets the various and changing demands of every location and environment that we explore. I'm partial to Nikon, and have been shooting with their photo gear for 35 years, but whatever DSLR or mirrorless system you use is perfectly fine.
CAMERA
Nikon D850
Nikon proudly introduces the next evolution in high resolution DSLRs, a camera that allows photographers to capture fast action in 45.7 megapixels of brilliant resolution. With remarkable advancements across the board—sensor design, autofocus, dynamic range, sensitivity, Speedlight control, battery life, shutter and mirror drive mechanisms, Silent Photography in Live-View mode, focus shift capability and more—this is quite possibly the most impressive, well-rounded DSLR yet. Full description from Nikon USA.
LENSES
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 16-35mm f4G ED VR Lens
Landscapes, cityscapes and interiors often require an extra-wide-angle lens to capture the complete picture. With the AF-S NIKKOR 16-35mm f/4G ED VR, you not only get focal lengths that cover a remarkably broad range, but your images will also benefit from the handheld steadiness of Nikon's VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization (2.5 stops*), sharp focusing and rich color rendition. Additionally, you will love having an f/4 fixed aperture lens that covers the focal range without sacrificing brightness or depth of field.
Expect this lens to awe you. Full description from Nikon USA .
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 24-70mm f2.8G ED Lens
Super steady and always ready, the AF-S NIKKOR 24-70mm f/2.8E ED VR workhorse is prepared to take your work to the next level. With up to 4 stops* of VR (Vibration Reduction) image stabilization, you can capture sharp, steady handheld stills and HD videos, and shoot at slower shutter speeds in low-light situations without sacrificing sharpness. Pair it with a Nikon full-frame high-resolution DSLR to capture the decisive moment with a thrilling balance of sharpness and soft blur effects. Covering the sweet spot of the zoom range with a fast f/2.8 constant aperture, you'll be ready for everything from environmental portraits, studio photography, landscape, architecture (exteriors and interiors), press events and weddings. Full description from Nikon USA.
Nikon AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR Lens
For years, Nikon's 70-200 f/2.8 lens has been the benchmark for fast telephoto zoom lenses, unrivaled for low-light, sports, wildlife, concerts, weddings, portraits and everyday shooting. This new version takes that legendary performance to the next level with the same jaw-dropping image quality that has made it a prized lens of pros and serious hobbyists alike. Whether you're shooting a DX DSLR like the D500 or an FX powerhouse like the D5, the AF-S NIKKOR 70-200mm f/2.8E FL ED VR will take you to thrilling new heights. Full description from Full description from Nikon USA .
Nikon AF-S Teleconverter TC-20E III
Enhanced Telephoto Versatility. Affordable and portable gateway to extend telephoto reach; ideal for sports, wildlife, surveillance and more. 2x Optical Conversion Factor doubles the focal length of select compatible NIKKOR lenses. Aspherical Lens Element virtually eliminates coma and other aberrations, especially at wide apertures. Nikon Integrated Coating (IC) enhances light transmission efficiency, improves color consistency and reduces flare. Full description from Nikon USA .
FILTERS
NiSi 77mm Ti Enhanced Landscape Circular Polarizing Filter
The 77mm Ti Enhanced Landscape Circular Polarizer Filter Titanium Frame from NiSi helps to reduce reflections and glare by filtering out light that has become polarized due to reflection from a non-metallic surface. The light from the sun naturally becomes partially polarized due to reflecting off electrons in air molecules, causing the light to scatter into what appears as haze. A polarizing filter arranges and filters this directionally polarized light perpendicularly to the reflected light, allowing for the absorption of much of this light. This results in a noticeable reduction of glare and reflections from non-metallic surfaces and an increase in the saturation of skies and foliage. Purchase here.
NiSi 77mm Circular Neutral Density Long Exposure Kit
The NiSi 77mm Circular Long Exposure Filter Kit features four circular ND filters the NiSi HUC PRO Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND8 (0.9) 3 Stop, NiSi HUC PRO Nano IR ND64 CPL Multifunctional Filter 6 Stop, the NiSi Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND1000 (3.0) 10 Stop and NiSi Nano IR Neutral Density Filter ND32000 (4.5) 15 Stop. The kit allows you to get creative, control shutter speed to create motion effects and long exposures. It includes a Circular Filter Pouch for easy storage of the filters in the kit. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.6 Filter (2-Stop)
The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.6 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 2-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.9 Filter (3-Stop)
The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 0.9 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 3-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi 100mm x 150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 1.2 Filter (4-Stop)
The NiSi 100x150mm Nano Soft-Edge Graduated IRND 1.2 Filter is a rectangular filter that helps to darken specific areas of an image, such as bright skies, while allowing for a normal, unaffected exposure in the other regions of the image. The filter is densest at the edge and tapers to clear by the middle, with a soft-edged line of transition between the dense and clear areas. A neutral density filter with a soft-edged line of transition is particularly useful for images that do not have a strongly defined transition between the sky and the foreground. Neutral density filters do not affect the coloration of the image and this filter provides up to a 4-stop reduction in light from entering the lens. Purchase here.
NiSi V7 ALPHA 100mm Aluminum Filter Holder
The NiSi V7 ALPHA 100mm Aluminum Filter Holder continues the success of our very popular V7 Holder. The V7 Alpha is the easiest way to get started with the NiSi 100mm filter system, offering great value to get you started with filters. The NiSi V7 ALPHA is designed to use 100mm wide filters that are 2mm thick and can support 3 filters 100mm wide and 2mm thick. Included is an 82mm adaptor ring to allow the holder to connect to any lens with an 82mm standard filter thread. The holder can be combined with our V7 adaptor rings to allow the use of sizes from 49mm to 77mm. The holder features our superior left to right pressed clip design, allowing filters to be very smoothly inserted and removed. The holder can be rotated 360 degrees to allow graduated neutral density filters to be rotated for perfect placement with a horizon and light source. Purchase here.
TRIPOD & HEAD
EXPLORER EX-ACPRO Ascent Professional Carbon Fibre Tripod
The Explorer Ascent Professional Carbon Fibre Tripod is our largest and most suitable for larger photography setups where stability is the main objective. It's perfect for maintaining no shake in windy conditions for landscape photographers, and just as ideal for impressive stability in the studio. The large load capacity of up to 26kg (57.32lbs) ensures high stability in a multitude of conditions, whether that be in the studio or out exploring the landscape. The 10X layer carbon fibre provides rigidity but keeps the weight low.
Each leg is attached to the tripod's collar via an offset leg joint that helps to evenly distribute heavy loads and maintain the tripod's rigidity. The joints and collar are constructed of lightweight anodized aluminum, which aside from lending inherent strength to the tripod, also provides it with natural wear and corrosion resistance. Each one of the three leg joints also features a variable angle stop that allows multiple shooting positions.
The flat mount can be swapped for the EX-ACPROCC centre column (available separately) if more height is required. Additional weights or a camera bag can be mounted to the centre hook to add extra weight for windy conditions. 3/8" and 1/4" accessory ports are included on the centre junction to mount accessories such as the Explorer Sidekick magic arm. The flat mount features a 3/8" stud that will accept most tripod heads.
4 sections extend to create a high maximum working height and collapse to ensure a portable carry. 3 leg angles selections can be made to settle the tripod on uneven terrain and also to allow for super low angle shooting when the legs are splayed out.
EXPLORER EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head
The Explorer EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head is the ultimate professional ball head built for the most challenging tasks. A key feature is a hollowed-out body and ball socket designed to minimize weight at just a total of 562g (19.8oz), while maximizing strength, durability, and load capacity at 40kg (88.2lbs). This makes the EX-XL Epic Explorer suitable for supporting larger telephoto lenses while being lightweight enough to carry and use with camera bodies and lens combinations of all sizes. Ball heads increase stability compared to other head types and provide faster, more accurate camera rotation for the photographers. The head tilts 90° for portrait orientation quickly and easily.
The large main adjustment knob features a rubber grip with friction control and a separate 360° panning clamp to assist with fast, precise adjustments, so you never miss the action. The ARCA / RRS compatible quick release clamp makes it compatible with a large range of quick release plates and L-brackets and includes an Explorer EX-60 QR plate in the box. A 3/8” thread socket and included 1/4”-3/8” brushing suits tripods from many manufacturers.
The clamp features the same hollowed-out design of the ball head and an extra-large release lock so the camera does not obstruct the release. The Explorer EX-XL Epic Explorer Extra Large Ball Head is CNC-machined from an aircraft-grade aluminum alloy and anodized with an oxidation treatment that ensures a durable, high-quality finish.
Purchase here.
CAMERA BAG
Lowepro Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II 24L Camera Backpack
The Lowepro Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II 24L Camera Backpack is the quintessential companion for the professional photographer on the move. Engineered with a compact carry-on design, this backpack is purpose-built to organize and protect a substantial amount of photography gear while maintaining a sleek and stylish profile. The Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II is not just spacious; it's intelligently designed with Lowepro's MaxFit Premium organization system. This innovative feature utilizes a laminated construction, allowing for precise adjustments of the padded dividers, enabling photographers to maximize the volume and customize the fit for their specific equipment needs. The backpack also includes a removable gear box, perfect for neatly storing cords, cables, and accessories, ensuring that every item has its place.
For the photographer who travels by air, this backpack offers carry-on compatibility. The stowable harness and removable waistbelt are designed for ease during transit, making it a breeze to navigate through airports and onto planes. Once you've reached your destination, the backpack's ergonomic design, featuring padded shoulder straps and a ventilated back panel, provides all-day comfort, even when carrying heavy loads to the most remote shoot locations. The Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II goes beyond just carrying cameras and lenses. It features a dedicated CradleFit compartment that suspends and protects up to a 15" laptop and a 10" tablet, ensuring that your edit devices are safe and accessible. For the modern content creator, this space for screens is invaluable.
Additional functionality comes in the form of the SlipLock attachment system, which allows for the connection of extra gear, and a tricot-lined front pocket, perfect for quick access to your phone and ID. The backpack also includes two removable quick-release straps, ideal for securing a tripod or other external equipment. To top it all off, the Pro Trekker BP 350 AW II is equipped with an All Weather (AW) Cover, providing an extra layer of protection against rain, snow, dust, and sand, ensuring that your gear remains safe in any environment. Full description from Adorama.
ACCESSORIES
Nikon MC-30A Remote Trigger Release
The MC-30A Remote Trigger Release Is a remote shutter release cable for select Nikon cameras. It features a trigger lock mechanism for unlimited time exposures and has a 10-pin plug and works with any Nikon with a 10-pin remote port. Full description from Adorama.
Nikon D850 Batteries
The Nikon EN-EL15 Lithium-Ion Battery is a rechargeable battery for Nikon cameras. Lithium-ion batteries will not suffer from the adverse memory effects that are normally associated with other battery types. Full description from Adorama.
SunwayFoto Custon L-Bracket
SUNWAYFOTO® brand Arca / RRS compatible L-Plate for Nikon D850, D810, D800E cameras. Precision CNC machined from solid aircraft-grade aluminum. Mounting screw: 1/4-20″. Dovetail Width: 39mm. Upper Width: 60.49mm. Height: 83.5mm. Weight: 82g. Length 114.5mm. All metal construction. Includes 1/4" screw 4 x Safety stop screws 2 & allen wrenches. Ideal for RRS Lever Clamps. See more from Amazon.
SunwayFoto Arca Clamp
SUNWAYFOTO brand Arca compatible MAC-14 60mm Clamp. Very versatile Jaw opening range of 37.25mm to 41.5mm will accommodate any Arca style plate from various makers including: Really right stuff (RRS), Wimberley, Arca, Kirk Enterprises, Markins, etc. Plus the Manfrotto Bogen slot lets you mount Bogen 3517N / Manfrotto 200PL-14 RC2 plates. 3/8" mounting hole and 1/4" adapter. Can be used on virtually any head, tripod or monopod. See more from Amazon.
Nikon DK19 Rubber Eye Cup
The Nikon DK-19 Rubber Eyecup allows for more comfortable viewing through the camera's viewfinder, especially for eyeglass wearers. Less stray light enters the viewfinder and a less flared, clearer image with which to compose your shot is provided. The DK-19 installs easily and is compatible with the Nikon D2 and D3 DSLR series, the D4, D700 and D800 DSLR's and the F6 SLR camera. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
SanDisk 64GB Extreme Pro CompactFlash with Pro UHS-I U3 SDXC Memory Cards Elevate your workflow to new heights with the SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO CompactFlash Card industry-leading transfer speeds of up to 160MB/s, allowing you to move large files to your computer with remarkable efficiency. Additionally, the card's exceptional shot speeds of up to 150MB/s empower you to capture every moment in stunning detail, perfect for fast action and continuous burst mode photography. Crafted with the high-quality, reliable, and durable construction that professionals require, the SanDisk 64GB Extreme PRO UHS-I U3 SDXC Memory Card is the epitome of performance and reliability. 64GB capacity offers ample storage for high-resolution images and video files, ensuring that you're always prepared for the next shot. Full description from Adorama.
Delkin USB 3.0 Dual Slot SD UHS-II & CF Memory Card Reader
The USB 3.0 Dual Slot SD UHS-II and CF Memory Card Reader from Delkin Devices can transfer data from Compact Flash and SD cards at the same time to your computer via USB 3.0. The USB 3.0 interface can download data at speeds up to 500 MB/s that is ten times faster than USB 2.0. If your computer doesn't support USB 3.0, this card reader is backwards compatible with USB 2.0 and 1.1, but will transfer data at a slower rate. Delkin has designed the SD slot with a second row of connectors to improve speed and performance, while also allowing for backwards compatibility with non UHS-II cards. The other slot reads Compact Flash cards, which supports UDMA 7 and VPG. The Delkin memory card reader is plug-and-play compatible and provides a fast way to read and save videos, images, and more to SD and CF cards. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
MacBook Pro
Designed for those who defy limits and change the world, the 15-inch MacBook Pro is by far the most powerful notebook we have ever made. With an immersive Retina display, superfast processors, advanced graphics, the largest battery capacity ever in a MacBook Pro, Magic Keyboard, and massive storage, it's the ultimate pro notebook for the ultimate user. See more from Apple.
G-Technology 5TB Portable G-Drive
Designed for those who need portable storage for their photos, videos, music, documents, and more, the space gray 5TB G-DRIVE mobile USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C External Hard Drive from G-Technology provides users with 5TB of plug-and-play storage and a USB 3.1 Gen 1 Type-C interface that supports data transfer speeds of up to 140 MB/s. It comes preformatted HFS+ for macOS 10.11 and later and can also be used with Windows 10, 8.1, and 7 via a simple reformat. The G-DRIVE mobile is compatible with the Thunderbolt 3 interface, is powered solely using the USB or Thunderbolt bus, and comes housed in an aluminum case. Included is a USB Type-C to USB Type-C cable and a USB Type-C to USB Type-A cable that are compatible with USB 3.1 Gen 1, which is also known as USB 3.0. See more from B&H Photo Video.
Adobe Photoshop & Lightroom Creative Cloud
Lightroom is the cloud-based service that gives you everything you need to create, edit, organize, store, and share your photos across any device. Capture, edit, and share your photos all from one place. Lightroom can manage any number of photos so you’ll always stay organized and on top of your game. Photoshop is included with the $9.99/month Adobe Creative Cloud plan. See more from Adobe.
Photographic Solutions Sensor Swab Ultra Cleaning Kit
Combining all of the necessary tools to keep your camera's sensor clean, this Sensor Swab ULTRA Kit from Photographic Solutions includes four Type 3 Sensor Swabs ULTRA, 10 PECPADs, 1 e-Wipe Pad packet, and a 0.5 oz bottle of Eclipse Optic Cleaner, all of which is neatly packed inside a nylon zippered travel pouch. The included Type 3 individually wrapped Sensor Swabs ULTRA that are specifically designed for image sensors measuring 24mm high, such as FX or Full-Frame sensors. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
B+W Photo Clear Cloth
Maintain your optical equipment in peak condition with this poly/nylon microfiber cloth woven into a thick, durable fabric. Free of chemicals and lint, the silky soft Photo-Clear Cloth cleans gently but thoroughly. Its microscopic texture is designed to cut through dirt and residue while lifting oil and moisture away from the surface via capillary action. An accessory of frequently underestimated importance for imaging performance, this cloth is suitable for use with photo equipment such as optical filters and camera lenses, as well as binoculars, telescopes and coated eyeglasses. The cloth comes with a protective plastic envelope and it can be washed in an environmentally safe manner and reused without losing any of its properties. Full description from B&H Photo Video.
Kata E-702 PL Rain Bag
The E-702 PL is a practical protective cover for a DSLR with up to a 70-200mm lens attached. Quickly slip it over your camera and keep shooting in rainy or dusty conditions. The simple intuitive design allows you to view and access all camera and lens controls. Full description from Amazon.
Leatherman Wingman Multi-Tool
The Leatherman Wingman is just that: your go-to tool for projects around the house, on the job, or at the campsite. A great, lightweight, pocket-sized, stainless steel tool; the Wingman features an outside-accessible, one-hand opening blade and newly-designed spring-action jaws. With plenty of handy tools, and backed by a team of designers, assemblers, and manufacturing crew from Portland, Oregon, this is one amazing value. Covered by the Leatherman 25-year warranty. Full description from Leatherman.
Mini Maglite Flashlight
Small, simple, but scorchingly bright. Introducing the all-new MINI MAGLITE AAA LED Flashlight. The heir to the original Mini Maglite 2AAA flashlight launched 25 years ago, this newest member of the family features the same classic look and size and the same simple operation just twist the head to turn it on, turn it off and focus the beam. But thanks to a latest-generation LED light engine, it produces a beam whose intensity is nothing short of amazing from a pocket-clippable flashlight that's not much bigger than a penlight. Full description from Maglite.
Lifeline UltraLight Survival Kit
At only 5.5oz, this ultralight survival kit is conveniently packed into a weather resistant roll-up bag to keep you safe without weighing you down. Full description from Amazon.
LifeStraw
LifeStraw is ideal for hiking, backpacking, camping, travel, and emergency preparedness. The straw-style filter design lets you turn up to 1,000 liters of contaminated water into safe drinking water. Full description from LifeStraw.
REI MultiTowel Lite
REI MultiTowel Lite is soft, highly absorbent, quick drying and ultralight! It's ideal for travel, backpacking, camping, yoga sessions, and the gym. Towel absorbs up to 8 times its weight in water, yet wrings out almost completely dry. Ultrasoft synthetic fabric is very light and compact, taking up very little space in your backpack or bag. Quick-attach loop makes it easy to hang the towel to dry. The REI MultiTowel Lite comes in a small carry pouch. Full description from REI.
Garmin InReach Mini 2 Personal Locator
This compact satellite communicator helps you keep home with you when you’re off the grid - adding peace of mind to every adventure, without adding weight to your pack. Global satellite coverage keeps you connected when cellphones can’t. In an emergency, send an interactive SOS message to our coordination center. You can still connect to the ones who matter, even without cellphone coverage. With TracBack routing, find your way back if you happen to get lost. Stay on adventures longer with up to 14 days of battery life in 10-minute tracking mode. See more from Garmin.
