Hiking is an activity that people all across the country take part in and enjoy year-round. According to statistics, it is an activity that is on the rise here in the US, with more than 47 million people taking part in it just during the spring of 2017. If hiking is something you enjoy on your own, with family, and with friends, then you probably have quite the collection of hiking-related photos by now, but that doesn’t mean they are all good.
Before you head out on your next hiking trip, you may want to take a look at these items that can help your photos turn out that much better.
A Dedicated Camera Backpack
First things first, the last thing you want to do is set out on your hike with your high-quality camera, only to drop it, scratch it, or get it dirty. What this means is you need a safe way to carry it around. For this, you’ll want to look into camera backpacks meant for hiking. These backpacks are very lightweight so that it’s not cumbersome for the hike and they provide quick and easy access to the camera itself. You’ll find backpacks meant for a simple day trip or longer hiking journeys where you’ll be gone for days at a time.
The indreviews website has a fabulous article detailing a collection of top 10 camera backpacks, all with their own set of pros and cons. This article will most certainly help you narrow down your choice.
Pack a Spare Battery
Of course, there is nothing worse than grabbing for your camera to get that fabulous shot only to find out the battery is dead. This is why you’ll want to travel with a spare fully charged battery – just in case. Don’t let a battery determine if you get the shot of a lifetime (or not).
A Zoom Lens Helps You Get That Perfect Shot
A zoom lens is another must-have item when packing your gear. Obviously, these can be bulky and heavy, so you want to pick the best lens for the hike that is also the smallest and most lightweight. Typically, a mid-range zoon will do the trick.
A Lightweight Tripod Can Be Your Best Friend
Another must-have item is a lightweight tripod. Look for something made of carbon fiber for the ultimate lightweight experience. As an added bonus, there are hiking poles available on the market now that double as a tripod. This means you can lean on the pole for support while you hike, then screw the camera into place on top of the pole when needed.
You’re Ready for Your Hiking Journey
Now that you’ve got all the key gear and the backpack to carry it in, you’re ready to head out on those hiking trails in search of the perfect photo opportunity. Just remember as you shop for gear and pack the items, always opt for the lightest weight possible, so it doesn’t hold you back.