(Copyright Ian Dawson)
I'm currently packing for two inspiring photographic voyages to the spectacular East Coast of Greenland onboard Le Commandant Charcot. Destinations bound in ice, full of remarkable landscapes, people and wildlife in the Ammasalik and Blosseville regions. If you are interested in exploring on a last minute trip of a lifetime with fellow Ponant Photo Ambassador Sue Flood Please see links to both itineraries below (Ensure you utilise the code IANDAWS for a 5% discount when booking on sailings in 2023.
(Dog Team, Scoresbysund I. Dawson)
Photographic Equipment for your Adventure
I thought it might be helpful to look at what camera equipment to consider bringing with you, specifically to the Arctic, to help maximise any photographic opportunities gifted to you by this inspiring destination.
Whenever I travel, my phone is always in a handy pocket. I use it (often) particularly for quick video clips. The quality of these devices constantly surprises me. Obviously they have their limitations and this is where a camera opens many new, creative doors.
Below is a short list of recommended equipment that won't weigh you down too much. In future posts, I'll expend on this list and look at the merits of specific brands and gear.
Camera bag & Dry bag (Sea water and electronics don't mix well!)
Camera body of choice (SLR, Bridge or Mirrorless)
Standard zoom lens (around 24mm - 70mm)
Telephoto zoom lens (100mm - 400 or 500 mm)
Memory cards (fast write speeds - 170mbs - 128gb storage) x 3
Batteries x 3
Polarising filter
Cleaning kit and blower (for removing dust and marks on lenses)
Card reader
A device to download images on to (iPad, hard drive, laptop etc)
Assorted cables for charging and downloading
(Copyright Ian Dawson)
This basic list will ensure you have the just the right amount of equipment for what we may encounter. It has extra capacity for memory and power, so you don't run out at that crucial moment, a long enough lens to get close-ups of the Polar Bears that will visit Le Commandant Charcot and a versatile standard zoom, perfect for portraits and many other subjects. A dry bag is a 'must' to keep electronics safe from water damage, especially when transferring in the vessels zodiacs. Finally, a basic cleaning kit. In challenging conditions it's easy to pick up marks or specks of dirt on your lenses that are simply removed - if you have brought the basics with you.
It is not an exhaustive list, and my own camera carry-on holds significantly more gear, but if I had to travel light, this is what I would pack.
If you have any specific questions or recommendations regarding equipment, destinations or anything else, I'd love to hear from you!
(Copyright Ian Dawson)
Following my voyages there are a further three explorations onboard Le Commandant Charcot to Greenland this season. For itineraries and dates for these sailings click here!
Remember to ensure you utilise the code IANDAWS for a 5% discount when booking on any sailings in 2023.
(Copyright Ian Dawson)
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