The dells from The Airstream Chronicles

Rich’s Photo Gear

Posts have been made on this topic from time to time here, but I thought it was about time to just create “The List.”  So, here it is.

Cameras:

  • Canon 5D Mark II:  At the time of this writing the 5D is still fairly new to me.  Over time I’ll return here to post my thoughts on the camera.
  • Canon 40D:  The 40D has been in my possession for in excess of a year now.  The 40D has been my primary work horse over the past year, and it’s been my primary HDR camera.  I can’t say enough good things about the 40D.  A lightweight but durable imaging system, the 40D has been beaten thoroughly in canyons, on cliffs, bounced off of rocks while swinging when I hike, etc.  It’s competently worked through all conditions I’ve exposed it to, and remember, I live in a super dusty state!

Lenses:

  • 10-22mm EF-S:  Purchased June of 2008, this wide angle lens is specific to my 40D.  The S series lenses do not work on the 5D.  Some of my favorite photos have been shot with this lens.  If you’re looking for a great wide angle lens for one of Canon’s cropped sensor cameras like the 30, 40, or 50D, I’d encourage you to check this one out.  Bottom line, I love this lens!
  • 17-40mm f/4 EF L series:  One of the newest lenses in my collection.  This wide angle was purchased for the 5D, and it basically gives me the same perspective as the 10-22 on the 40D.  I’m finding the results from the lens to be extremely sharp.
  • 24-70mm f/2.8L USM AF Lens:  Another recent addition to my collection.  Purchased for the 5D as well, this is an extremely sharp lens.  The results so far tell me that it will spend the bulk of its time on my camera, not in the carrying case.
  • 70-200 f/4L IS USM AF Lens:  I’d considered the 2.8 version of this lens, but I had to be realistic.  I hike into strange places, sometimes long distances, and carrying a super heavy lens like the 2.8 would be too much.  So I sacrificed a stop in order to get lighter weight for my pack.  An incredibly sharp lens, the results have wowed me every time.  The IS allows me to shoot handheld in high light situations, allowing me to get interesting wildlife photography on the fly!
  • 28-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM AF Lens:  I’ve had this lens since my 10D.  It has been a favorite for a long time, and will remain in my kit for the 40D.  How many Moose have I photographed with this lens?  Can’t even count them at this point!
  • 50mm f/2.8 EF Macro:  Couldn’t find the link to this one on BH’s site, but I did get it from them.  I’ll need to recheck the specs.  This macro lens is super cool.  I enjoy shooting rare coins with this lens, and you couldn’t ask for a better macro.  I’ve got so far with the macro work as to create banded areas of focus while leaving everything outside of the banding in “the background.”

Packs & Cases:

  • Crumpler 6 Million Dollar House:  Just a cool over the shoulder pack for the quick trips.  One lens on camera, and one additional lens can ride in this pack (my 70-200 fits nicely).  Additionally I can fit my 580EX Speedlight, spare batteries, cable release, and Epi Pen in the bag with no trouble!
  • Lowepro Nature Trekker AW II:  I’ve had this pack for so long.  Years and years and years……and it’s still super reliable.  Roomy too.  The issue with this pack now……water.  Living in AZ I’ve found that I need lots of water, and this is strictly a camera bag, nothing more.  Still, a great pack for transporting more.  2 camera bodies, a few lenses, and all those necessary little items as well.
  • Lowepro Dryzone Rover:  I received this pack as a gift.  Somebody was listening closely.  A pack that’s waterproof and has a water bladder, answering my one complaint about the Nature Trekker above.  This pack is great.  A small day pack area to carry snacks, water, etc.  A waterproof section for the camera and lenses.  Of course, it’s a much heavier pack, but it’s super useful in some circumstances!

Camera Stability:

Everybody knows, I have fun with big broad landscapes and HDR photography.  I’ll continue having fun with both, and with other things that catch my interest.  When I really want something to come out as good as it can I start with a stable shooting platform!  That means my monopod or my tripod.

  • Manfroto Monopod:  Not much needs to be said about this monopod.  It does what it’s supposed to, it’s taken a ton of hiking abuse, and it’s simple to use.  If you’re not willing to drag a large tripod at least have one of these hanging off your pack.
  • Manfroto 190XB with Ball head:  This tripod has been more than reliable.  It’s allowed me to take photos that would not have worked out without it.

The sections below will need some information filled in, but at least I’ve started the list.  Check back to this page regularly to see updates on my gear!

Software:

  • Photoshop:
  • Photomatix:
  • Topaz Suite:
  • Adobe Lightroom2:

Computer Systems:

  • Apple G5:
  • IMac:
  • MacBook Pro:

Miscellaneous Stuff:

  • Sandisk Card Case:
  • Sandisk Multi-Card Reader:
  • Spudz Lens Cleaner:
  • Gitzo Rocket Blower:
  • Arctic Butterfly:
  • Canon 580EX
  • Cable Release:
  • Epi Pen & Chewable Benadryl:

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