Camera Suggestions

I recommend Canon over any other brand. They have the most intuitively designed functions allowing more ease of use in the field. Nevertheless, we work with all brands during my photography workshops.

 

Canon Digital Camera Bodies

Canon Rebel Series: several EOS Rebels currently available. Similar features for all with various megapixel counts. All are good entry SLRs to fit any budget and file size needs. Kits available with one or two lenses at great prices.

Canon EOS more advanced: 6D, 7D, 5D Mark IV, and 5DS(R). For the more dedicated photographer.

 

Canon Lenses

Moderate Price EF & EF-S

Wide angle focal length for extreme depth of field images:

Canon 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5

Medium focal length:
18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 IS (image stablization adds up to 3 stops hand-holdability)
Telephoto focal length: 55-250mm f/4-5.6 IS

Best Quality L Series Pro Lenses

16-35mm f/4 L (best with full size sensor cameras)
24-105 f/4 L IS
70-200 f/4 L IS
100-400 f/4.5-5.6 L IS

I use the Canon 1.4x tele-converter to gain more focal length with telephoto zooms.

Tripod

Manfrotto is the best of all tripods. It uses a latch leg release for speed. Do not use screw type leg lock tripods. They take much too long to extend. Manfrotto 190 PRO series is for shorter folks. Taller people should check out the 055 PRO series. Pistol grips are by far the easiest heads to use. Add the 322RC2 pistol grip head to both tripods. Consider using the 2-second timer on your camera to release the shutter for slow exposures rather than a remote device.

 

Camera Pack

Lowe Pro and Tamrac make the best camera packs. B & H Photo is a good, reliable resource from which to get gear online. Locally in Colorado, Mike’s Camera carries all of this gear, too, and has great service with very reasonable prices.