Photography Notebook: Supplies
Camera, Lenses, Filters, and HoodsFull-Frame
Canon Rebel LineI have two Rebel camera bodies: 1) the Canon Rebel XSi; and 2) the Canon EOS Rebel T1i.Why do I have two similar camera bodies? Well, it started when the Rebel XSi had to be sent for repairs. I realized that not having a camera for the duration of a repair limits my work ability. So I got another body, the Rebel T1i, and I keep the Rebel XSi as a backup body that takes the same batteries, lenses, and has similar controls as the Rebel T1i. I would never go on a trip for photos or an important location shoot without a backup camera body.
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Get the Big GigsThis 16 GB SD card is a wonder--I can photograph for hours on it, even in RAW + JPEG top quality and still not run out of room. The Rebel XSi shows 797 photos available to shoot on this card in RAW + JPEG format. Getting this was the best money I ever spent, because it has saved me time, fumbling, and possible loss of smaller-sized SD cards. My plan is to get a few more of these for longer trips where I need to store photos before transfering to a computer. |
Get LevelDouble Bubble Axis Level: this clear, two-axis bubble level helps you adjust the camera on the tripod so that it is level. I find this invaluable! The clear plastic shows the bubble very clearly and the bubble settles down quickly. The two axes work for the landscape and portrait orientation of the camera. I have astigmatism and literally can't see straight, but with this level, the photos are level! There are cheaper levels, but I knew that this would be an important tool for me, so I wanted an accurate, durable level, so I went with this Manfrotto model. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Get SteadyI can't say enough good about this tripod--I've used it for over a year, and it fits my needs perfectly. It is reasonably lightweight and compact when folded down. Its ball head allows me to position the camera as I wish. It is reasonably steady--not rock-steady--but sufficient enough for non-gusting winds (you can lower the legs down to a smaller size for more stability in higher winds). A tripod, I would say, is mandatory for night shots, IR shots and HDR shots. For telephoto shots, this is extremely useful, as at long focal lengths, your camera rocks more than you might think.I also have a Slik Tabletop Travel Tripod which is also fantastic for the same reasons and holds the Rebel comfortably and sturdily in a size that fits easily in a small backpack. For trips I have taken this tabletop version only, and I've been pleased with the results. |
Get Big PowerI have three batteries for my Rebel XSi. I carry a spare (second) battery pack in my camera utility kit. I keep another battery at home in the charger ready to go. I swap all these batteries regularly. I've never been without power for the camera. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Special Supplies
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Avoid the Big ShakesThe remote is extremely useful for night shots, IR shots and HDR shots. For telephoto shots, this is also useful, as at long focal lengths, your finger pressing the shutter button rocks that camera more than you might think. Use this remote to avoid touching the camera at all to release the shutter for these types of shots. Also useful for shots when you want to release the shutter and be in the photo. Uses CR1220 battery cells. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Sensor Cleaning SuppliesI discuss these supplies in "Digital Photography's Dirty Little Secret:"
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Order from Amazon.comOrder from B&H |
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