Erick Lirios
Well, not really.
Just thought that phrase would encapsulate what we sometimes think of doing especially when we’re fed up with city life. I’m doing this more and more and, with the constant companionship of my wife, kids and a good friend, it’s really one of the best ways to spend one’s time.
The bottomless pit (Part I)
Purchases are inevitable in photography. That’s just the way things are. It’s really just a question of knowing what it is you really need to have at least at the present stage of your photographic life.
There are, however, some, well, suggestions that need to be made. There are some things that can even seem not so photographic in nature yet will really help when you shoot.
Item #1: The lens tissue or microfiber cloth. Your lenses will become dirty. It’s as simple as that. Forget about using your t-shirt or even some Kleenex. Those will just scratch the lens surface and degrade your lens. If you have a protective filter over your lens like a UV (ultraviolet) or skylight, well, maybe in a pinch you can use a cloth that’s relatively fine in texture but just to be safe, it’s really better to just stick with the real options. I get this a lot: "Can I use the tissue that’s meant for glasses?" No. That will still most likely scratch the lens. Fortunately, that type of tissue seems to be hard to find anyway. Where do you get the microfiber? Some photo shops sell it and computer shops also. Price? From Php30 to Php100. My microfiber is around three years old. If it gets dirty, I wash it and dry it.
Item #2: The blower. Don’t be all wimpy by buying those small blowers with the little brush on it. A good blower fits your hand. This is good for blowing off little dust particles on the lens (both front and back end) and even on the camera sensor as well. One of the best things about using a point and shoot is that you never really have to deal with this. People with DSLRs have to. Even if your camera features a self-cleaning system, you will still need to do this sooner or later so prepare for it; Php400 or thereabouts.
Item #3: Good rechargeable batteries. There are a lot of rechargeable batteries out there with some more available than others. Many pros and amateurs use Sanyo or its Eneloop incarnation while others swear by Ansmann or Energizer. I haven’t used any of these so you have to find someone who has to get feedback. Me? I use Rayovac and Varta (which is actually the same thing). These charge in 15 minutes if used with their dedicated charger. Do they last long? Yes, they do. My first batch was purchased around 2004 or 2005 and I’m still using them. They’re a bit pricey so take care of your rechargeables. The plastic case is an extra expense of around Php15 each. Battery price depends on the brand. Mine are Php500 for four pieces in Singapore. Sigh. Why do I need the fact that they charge in 15 minutes? Read on.
Item #4: The AA adapter. I’m not sure about other brands but the Canon 30D I use features a battery grip accessory that allows the use of six AA batteries in lieu of the regular battery pack. This will really save your skin at times when you’re senile enough to go to a shoot with no batteries ready for work. This accessory actually comes with the battery grip. Just make sure you always have it around. It’s free but the battery grip itself is around Php9,000. Again, this varies with camera brand.
Item #5: The off-shoe cord. The look of this really depends on the camera brand but the purpose is the same: this allows you to shoot with your flash off the camera while still retaining full automation. Why would you want to shoot with your flash off the camera?
Many reasons (which we’ll get into some other time) but suffice it to say that you can easily add drama by having light to the side of your subject and you can also eliminate harsh shadows by pointing your flash up and maybe pointing it down to your subject. Again, this is a Canon product and if memory serves, this was around Php1,500. There’s a newer version which has a better locking mechanism and a better, sturdier foot. Those of you using cameras like the S5 IS and the G-series Canons should really consider this as it will really give you more options to making your photos a more professional look.
Item #6: A card reader. Yes, a card reader. It would be a good idea to have one in your camera bag ALL THE TIME. You never know if you suddenly have to download something. Not having a download device or a computer with you at that time is simply no excuse. While your camera can really serve as a card reader, it’s not exactly a good idea because while you transfer files, you can’t shoot now, can you? The one pictured here is a good option because the USB cable doesn’t even detach so no problem of losing it. USB or Firewire? Either will do but firewire can be a bit pricey. Go ahead and buy a ton of these if you haven’t the faintest idea what to do with $ 130 million. Me? I prefer the ones that go for around Php200 to at most Php500 but that’s just me. Note: Card readers marked "Supports USB 2.0" doesn’t mean it really goes at USB 2.0 speeds. It may very well be USB 1.1 which is absolutely unacceptable. Bring at least a card along with you when you buy and insist that you test the product before you even consider paying for it. How slow is slow? This card reader took around 4 minutes to download 3.7 gigabytes of photos. Another reader right next to it was supposed to take an hour. Another, a more forgiving but still unacceptable 23 minutes. Again, test and don’t believe everything the sales person tells you. I learned that the hard way.
This is the end of Part I. There are a few more items I would want to suggest you keep in your gadget bag but, well, that’ll have to wait till next week. Keep shooting everybody!
Maraming salamat!
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