Regardless of what profession you use your camera for, camera straps have always been more of a hassle than an advantage. You can imagine the weight of a DSLR (or two) hanging on two shoulders or dangling right in front of you while you try to capture spontaneous shots during a job. Even when you shoot for leisure, straps still tend to get in the way and ruin images that might have been amazing.
The negatives become even more obvious in hiking photography. To ensure a successful hiking photography trip, you need to travel light, travel comfortably and bring only gear that you need. Camera straps or slings are uncomfortable to wear at best and can be downright torturous around your neck or shoulders for long periods of time during a hike. Sure, you can keep your cameras in your bag but that would mean potentially missing out that million dollar shot when the opportunity presents itself. Hiking photography also require lightweight and ergonomic equipment that will allow you to travel light while taking pictures comfortably and easily.
If you are getting ready to embark on that great hiking adventure that you have been planning for, it is crucial that you utilize the best camera accessories available to help capture the best the great outdoors have to offer.
Top Accessories for the Hiking Photography
- Quality backpack. Invest in a backpack such as the Lowepro Flipside Trek that will securely hold your essentials and your photography accessories in place while trekking in rugged and unpredictable trails. Your backpack should be comfortable and should distribute the weight evenly on your shoulders and back. Test your options before you decide on which backpack to bring for the hike. Make sure everything you need can fit in it with a little room to breathe.
- Camera carrying and holster system. A carrying system like the SpiderLight backpacker kit will allow you to easily mount your small DSLR or mirrorless camera on your backpack strap. This eliminates the need for an uncomfortable camera strap while still allowing you quick draw for those unexpected shots. It also includes an adapter to mount your GoPro, which will come in handy for hiking video shoot. The SpiderLight holster set allows you to carry your DSLR or mirrorless camera at your side, ready to shoot anytime, just like a camera sling minus the discomfort and annoyance of your camera swinging and banging onto your body as you hike.
- A lightweight tent and sleeping bag. Naturally, you will need a space to rest comfortably during your hike. But with all the things you carry, you don’t need to bring something that will just add to your burden. The perfect solution for this is a lightweight tent and sleeping bag from Nemo and Western Mountaineering. It provides you with a roof over your head and protection against the elements so you can be well rested for the remainder of the hike.
- Hiking shoes. Shoes are one of the most important items you will need during a hike. The Trail Pro from Garmont provides the protection you need, as well as the stability and comfort for all the walking you’re going to take. These are great because they are a cross between hiking boots and running shoes.
- Water bottle. Bringing water on a hike is essential. The Spider Monkey water bottle holder is great to bring along because it allows you to conveniently carry your water bottle at your hip.
- Tripod or monopod carrier. Having a monopod and tripod for your hiking photography is important so you can get the shots you want at slower shutter speeds. The tripod provides the stability needed for these kinds of shots. The Spider Tripod Carrier allows you to convenient carry your tripod out of the way but still within reach at your hips.
- Headlamp. Hiking photography, especially at night, will require you to use a good headlamp to provide the light you need and keep your hands free.
- Rain cover. Rain or snow are beautiful when captured on camera but not very good for your gear. This is why having the Spider Monkey rain cover is necessary to protect your camera from natural elements and sudden weather changes.
- Survival essentials. Food, water, first aid kit, and other survival essentials like a rope, matches and a knife are must-haves during hiking. Whether you encounter an emergency or not, having these are a great help when treading unfamiliar forests and mountains. And you should always keep your safety a priority.
- Somewhere to store your essentials. Some of the most important things you bring, like your phone, lens caps, batteries and keys need to be close to you and easily reached if you ever need them. The Spider Monkey Utility pouch allows you to do this because it clips and locks right onto your belt or backpack.
Having all these things during your hike will make the experience easier and more enjoyable. As they say, Nature is Metal, so you best be prepared for what the great outdoors have to throw at you.
You can find many of these accessories and more at Spider Holster.