equipment list

photography equipment list

Mindshift Backlight 26L Backpack, Vietnam.

Mindshift Backlight 26L Backpack, Vietnam.

Here is my recommended gear list for quality, landscape photography. While it is Sony focussed, I am not any brand’s fanboy. After research, and testing the Sony sensor, I found it was best suited to the subtleness and contrasts of the landscape photography I do.

For several years I ran a pro, multi camera Canon system for my commercial work and Sony for my fine art landscapes. Now, I use Sony for both. I have seen very good reviews of Canon's mirrorless range of late (heating issues aside). From the sensor specs I can see several of them working quite well for landscapes. And, of course, Canon lenses are excellent.

While I used Nikon for many years when I shot film, I moved to Canon to go digital because of their full frame sensors. Nikon only offered cropped sensors to begin with. I cannot give a personal experience opinion on Nikon's suitability to landscape photography.

As our photography improves, more capable cameras can improve our pictures. Large, wide dynamic range sensors and sharp high contrast lenses will also help. But they won't make us more creative.

For landscape work, buy the largest, most modern sensor you can afford. Look for two to three quality prime lenses. My preference would be: one around 18mm, another around 35mm - 50mm and another around 135mm - 200mm. I would also be happy with a 70mm - 200mm zoom in place of a prime telephoto.

Landscape photography doesn't need fast glass. Sharp, contrasty f2 - f4 lenses with low chromatic aberration will save you money.

Avoid super wide lenses with bulging front elements. They look sexy but are hard to compose with. And, once you do have your composition technique sorted, any pics after that will look the same. Not to mention the hassle and expense of setting up a filter system for them.

Always keep in mind that any camera gear is only as good as the eye and creative mind behind it. Owning the 'best' camera will not make anyone the best photographer.

The Amazon Affiliate links are a good starting point for your shopping journey. If you find something suitable and priced well, I appreciate you using them. Any (very) small percentage of a sale credited to my account does not cost you anything.

Please get in touch if you have gear questions or suggestions.

Cameras

Lenses

Gimbals

Accessories

Tripods

  • Sirui W-1204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod: Buy at Amazon

  • Sirui AM-284 + A-10R Carbon Fibre Travel Tripod: Buy at Amazon

  • Benro Aluminum Video Monopod Kit w/ 3-Foot Articulating Base, S4 Video Head (A48FDS4): Buy at Amazon

  • Manfrotto Geared Head 410 Accurate Junior Geared Tripod Head: Buy at Amazon

  • Acratech GPs Ballhead with Gimbal Feature, Panoramic Head, Supports 25 lbs: Buy at Amazon

Filters

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paul foley | fine art & landscape photography | australia