DISCOVERING HIDDEN GEMS, WORLD FLAVORS & WILDLIFE

MY PHOTOGRAPHY GEAR: TOOLS FOR EVERY ADVENTURE

CAMERA BODY: POWER AND PRECISION IN EVERY SHOT

For my photography, I rely on two exceptional camera bodies: the Canon EOS R3 and the Canon EOS R8. The R3 is my go-to for high-end wildlife and action shots, offering unparalleled precision, speed, and image quality. It's the perfect tool for capturing fast-moving subjects in the most challenging environments. On the other hand, the Canon EOS R8 remains my versatile companion for everything from stunning landscapes to wildlife photography, with a lightweight design that makes it ideal for travel and everyday use.

Each body excels in its own right, offering the flexibility to capture sharp, detailed images no matter the situation.

CANON EOS R3: THE ULTIMATE IN PRECISION AND SPEED

The Canon EOS R3 is my flagship camera body, designed to capture fast action with unrivaled precision. Whether it's wildlife in rapid motion or birds in flight, the R3's advanced autofocus system and high-speed shooting capabilities ensure I never miss the perfect shot. With its robust build and exceptional image quality, it's a perfect match for demanding wildlife photography in challenging conditions.

Pros:

  • Incredible autofocus system with Dual Pixel CMOS AF II for precision tracking.
  • High-speed shooting with up to 30 fps burst rate.
  • Full-frame sensor with superior image quality, dynamic range, and color accuracy.
  • Superb low-light performance with excellent noise control.
  • Weather-sealed, robust build designed for demanding environments.
  • Dual card slots for redundancy and increased storage capacity.

Cons:

  • Larger and heavier than the R8, making it less ideal for travel or long hikes.
  • Higher cost, which may not suit everyone's budget.
  • Advanced features may be complex for casual users.

CANON EOS R8: VERSATILE PERFORMANCE FOR EVERY ADVENTURE

The Canon EOS R8 is a lightweight mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality while remaining compact and portable. Its full-frame sensor excels in landscapes, wildlife, and general photography. The R8's versatility and ease of use make it a great choice for everyday shoots, whether I'm out on a wildlife expedition or exploring a new city.

Pros:

  • Full-frame sensor for excellent image quality and dynamic range.
  • Great low-light performance for sunrise, sunset, and indoor shoots.
  • Fast autofocus for wildlife and fast-moving subjects.
  • Lightweight and compact, perfect for travel and long shoots.
  • 4K video capabilities for future video work.
  • Electronic viewfinder and intuitive touchscreen for easy navigation.

Cons:

  • Lacks in-body image stabilization (IBIS), making handheld shooting trickier in low light.
  • Battery life is decent but can be limiting for long shoots without extra batteries.
  • Fewer physical controls compared to higher-end models, which may not suit advanced users.
  • Single SD card slot could be a drawback for those who require dual backups.

LENSES: VERSATILITY FOR EVERY SHOT

The lenses I use are just as important as my camera body. Each lens serves a specific purpose, depending on the subject and the conditions I'm shooting in. Here's a look at the lenses and accessories, including lens hoods, that help me capture everything from wildlife to detailed close-ups:

CANON RF 100-500MM F/4.5–7.1 L IS USM & CANON ET-83F (W III) LENS HOOD

This is my go-to lens for most of my wildlife and bird photography. Its versatile zoom range allows me to capture a wide variety of subjects, from close-up details to distant wildlife. The L-series optics ensure exceptional image quality, and the image stabilization helps keep everything steady, even when shooting at longer focal lengths. I pair it with the Canon ET-83F (W III) lens hood to protect the lens and reduce lens flare, especially in bright conditions.

Pros:

  • Exceptional image quality with L-series optics.
  • Versatile focal length range (100mm to 500mm), perfect for wildlife, birds, and distant subjects.
  • Image stabilization helps with steady shots, even at longer focal lengths.
  • Compact and relatively lightweight for a lens of this range.

Cons:

  • Aperture range is not as wide as some prime lenses (f/4.5–7.1), which may not be ideal in low-light situations.
  • A bit pricier compared to non-L lenses.
  • At 500mm, it's not as fast as some other super-telephoto lenses, which may affect performance in fast-moving situations.

CANON RF EXTENDER 1.4x

When I need a bit more reach, I use the Canon RF Extender 1.4x with the RF 100-500mm lens. This extender gives me an extra 1.4x focal length, allowing me to photograph distant subjects with even more detail, without sacrificing image quality.

Pros:

  • Increases the focal length of your compatible lenses by 1.4x, ideal for reaching more distant subjects.
  • Maintains excellent image quality when used with compatible lenses, such as the RF 100-500mm.
  • Lightweight and compact design, easy to carry along on shoots.

Cons:

  • Reduces the aperture by one stop (e.g., f/5.6 becomes f/8), which may affect low-light performance.
  • Autofocus can be slower when used with telephoto lenses.
  • Adds a bit more bulk to your setup.

CANON RF 100-400MM F/5.6-8 IS USM & CANON ET-74B LENS HOOD

This lens is great for wildlife and bird photography as well, especially when I need a lighter setup. With image stabilization and a solid zoom range, it allows me to capture distant subjects without feeling weighed down during long shoots. The Canon ET-74B lens hood is a great addition to protect the lens from scratches and provide extra shade in bright conditions.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and compact design, making it perfect for travel and long hikes.
  • Good image stabilization, helpful in low-light conditions or when shooting at slower shutter speeds.
  • Excellent for bird and wildlife photography when weight is a concern.

Cons:

  • The maximum aperture (f/5.6-8) is smaller, making it less effective in low-light conditions.
  • Not as fast or sharp at the longer focal lengths (400mm) compared to some higher-end lenses.
  • Lacks some of the advanced features found in more expensive lenses.

CANON RF 50MM f/1.8 STM & CANON ES-65B LENS HOOD

CANON RF 35MM F/1.8 MACRO IS STM & CANON EW-52 LENS HOOD

This lens is fantastic for macro photography, allowing me to get up close to nature and capture fine details of plants, insects, or small wildlife. It's also great for general travel photography due to its versatility and image stabilization. I use the Canon EW-52 lens hood to reduce lens flare and protect the lens when shooting in bright conditions.

Pros:

  • Great for macro photography with excellent detail capture at close range.
  • Fast f/1.8 aperture for low-light performance and a nice shallow depth of field.
  • Image stabilization helps with handheld shots in tricky situations.

Cons:

  • The focal length (35mm) isn't ideal for wildlife or distant subjects.
  • Macro autofocus can struggle in some situations, especially for fast-moving subjects.
  • Not as sharp as some higher-end macro lenses.

CANON RF 15-30MM F/4.5-6.3 IS STM & CANON EW-73E LENS HOOD

A wide-angle lens ideal for capturing sweeping landscapes or architectural shots. It's perfect for wide vistas or when I want to fit more into the frame without sacrificing image quality. I use the Canon EW-73E lens hood to reduce lens flare and protect the lens when shooting in bright sunlight.

Pros:

  • Wide focal range, perfect for landscapes, architecture, and even some close-up shots.
  • Lightweight and compact, great for traveling and on-the-go photography.
  • Image stabilization is helpful for handheld shooting in lower light.

Cons:

  • The maximum aperture (f/4.5-6.3) is relatively narrow, which may limit its effectiveness in low-light situations.
  • Some distortion at the wide end (15mm), although this can be corrected in post-processing.
  • Not as sharp as some more expensive wide-angle lenses.

CANON RF 800MM F/11 IS STM & CANON ET-74B LENS HOOD

When I need to photograph distant wildlife or birds in flight, this super-telephoto lens does the job. Its compact design makes it surprisingly portable for its reach, and the image stabilization helps me get sharp shots even at long distances. The Canon ET-74B lens hood helps minimize the impact of sunlight and keeps the lens protected from scratches.

Pros:

  • Extremely lightweight and compact for a super-telephoto lens, making it easier to transport and shoot with.
  • Great reach for bird and wildlife photography, especially when you're photographing distant subjects.
  • Affordable compared to other super-telephoto lenses.

Cons:

  • Fixed f/11 aperture is limiting in low-light conditions and for fast-moving subjects.
  • Autofocus can be slower, especially in low light or for smaller subjects.
  • The aperture limits flexibility when it comes to controlling depth of field.

Accessories: Essential Tools for Every Adventure

In addition to my camera body and lenses, I rely on a range of accessories that play a crucial role in capturing stunning photos. These items help me stay organized, powered, and prepared for any shooting situation, whether I'm trekking through the wilderness or photographing a breathtaking landscape.

PEAK DESIGN TRAVEL TRIPOD CARBON

The Peak Design Travel Tripod Carbon is my go-to tripod for capturing stunning shots in all conditions. It's lightweight yet sturdy, making it perfect for long exposure photography, landscapes, and even capturing sharp images in low-light situations. Its compact design makes it easy to take with me on any adventure.

Pros:

  • Lightweight and easy to carry, perfect for travel.
  • Quick setup and breakdown for fast shooting.
  • Carbon fiber construction offers durability without extra weight.

Cons:

  • Not the cheapest option.
  • Slightly shorter in height, which may be inconvenient for taller users.

PEAK DESIGN CAPTURE

The Peak Design Capture system helps me keep my camera secure and easily accessible at all times. I can attach it to my backpack or belt, which frees up my hands and ensures I'm always ready to shoot when the moment arises.

Pros:

  • Hands-free convenience for quick access to my camera.
  • Attaches to any strap or bag, providing great flexibility.
  • Keeps my gear safe and secure while I'm on the move.

Cons:

  • May not be ideal for larger setups with heavy lenses.
  • Requires a compatible strap or bag for best use.

LOWEPRO PROTACTIC BP 350AW II GL BACKPACK

The LOWEPRO ProTactic BP 350AW II GL is my preferred backpack for carrying all of my photography gear. It's durable and offers multiple access points, making it easy to grab what I need quickly while on the go. The customizable dividers ensure everything stays protected and organized during long trips.

Pros:

  • Customizable dividers for perfect organization.
  • Comfortable to carry, even on long hikes or travel days.
  • Built-in all-weather cover for extra protection in harsh weather conditions.

Cons:

  • The size may be limiting if I need to carry additional non-photography items.
  • Not the lightest backpack, which could be a concern for minimalist travelers.

PEAK DESIGN SLIDE (COYOTE COLORED)

The Peak Design Slide is my go-to strap for comfortably carrying my camera all day. Whether I'm shooting landscapes, wildlife, or portraits, this strap provides the flexibility to switch between shoulder and cross-body carrying, making it ideal for any shooting style.

Pros:

  • Comfortable, adjustable strap for all-day use.
  • Quick-release system for easy access to the camera.
  • Versatile design allows for multiple carrying options.

Cons:

  • May not support very heavy camera setups, especially with large lenses.
  • Strap thickness may not be ideal for those who prefer a minimal look.

GOAL ZERO VENTURE 35 POWER BANK

The GOAL ZERO VENTURE 35 is my solution for staying charged while I'm out in the field. Compact and durable, it allows me to charge devices like my phone, camera batteries, and other electronics, even when there's no power outlet nearby.

Pros:

  • Portable and rugged, built for the outdoors.
  • Multiple charging ports for convenience.
  • Reliable power source when traveling in remote areas.

Cons:

  • Takes a long time to recharge, especially after multiple uses.
  • Limited output for charging larger devices like laptops.

CANON LP-E19 EXTRA BATTERY

Having an extra Canon LP-E19 battery is crucial for extended shooting sessions with my Canon EOS R3. This powerful battery ensures I never run out of power during important shoots, especially in remote locations where charging options are limited.

Pros:

  • High-capacity battery designed for the Canon EOS R1, R3, 1D X Mark II, and 1D X Mark III.
  • Reliable and long-lasting power, perfect for professional-grade photography and long wildlife shoots.
  • Essential for continuous shooting, especially when capturing fast action or extended scenes.

Cons:

  • Only compatible with Canon EOS R1, R3, 1D X Mark II, and 1D X Mark III, limiting its use for other models.
  • Recharging can take time, so it's important to plan ahead during long trips.

CANON LP-E17 EXTRA BATTERY

Having an extra Canon LP-E17 battery on hand is essential for long shooting days. This extra battery ensures I don't run out of power when I need it most, whether I'm capturing wildlife or exploring new locations.

Pros:

  • Reliable and long-lasting battery designed specifically for the Canon EOS R8.
  • A must-have for extended shooting sessions, especially in remote areas.

Cons:

  • Only compatible with Canon EOS R8, limiting its use for other camera bodies.
  • Recharging can take time, which may be a concern when on the move.

Lexar CFexpress Pro Silver 256GB Type B. R1750/W1300 MB/s

The Lexar CFexpress Pro Silver 256GB Type B memory card is essential for my high-performance needs, especially when working with large image files from my Canon EOS R3. With super-fast read and write speeds of 1750 MB/s and 1300 MB/s, it ensures quick and efficient storage, even when shooting in high-resolution or continuous burst modes.

Pros:

  • Ultra-fast read and write speeds (1750 MB/s read, 1300 MB/s write) for quick file transfers and smooth workflow.
  • Large storage capacity (256GB) for extended shooting sessions without worrying about running out of space.
  • Ideal for high-resolution photos, 4K video, and continuous shooting with demanding cameras like the Canon EOS R3.
  • Durable and reliable, built to withstand the rigors of travel and extreme shooting environments.

Cons:

  • Higher price compared to standard SD cards, but the speed and reliability make it worthwhile for professional use.
  • Not compatible with all camera models, only those supporting CFexpress Type B cards like the EOS R3.

LEXAR PRO 1800X SDXC U3 (V60) UHS-II R270/W180 128GB

These Lexar Pro 1800x SDXC U3 (V60) UHS-II memory cards offer excellent speed and reliability for high-resolution photography and 4K video. With a large 128GB capacity, they provide plenty of space for storing all my shots, from wildlife close-ups to sweeping landscapes.

Pros:

  • High-speed performance for fast continuous shooting.
  • Large 128GB capacity to store a lot of data.
  • Durable and built for professional photographers.

Cons:

  • Higher price compared to standard SD cards.
  • May not be compatible with older camera models that don't support UHS-II.

LENSCOAT FOR CANON RF 100-500 REAL TREE MAX5

The LensCoat helps me keep my lens camouflaged when shooting wildlife. It blends into natural surroundings, making it less likely to startle animals. It also provides an extra layer of protection for my lens against scratches and dust.

Pros:

  • Camouflage design helps me remain unobtrusive in nature.
  • Protects my lens from dirt, moisture, and minor impacts.
  • Lightweight and easy to install and remove.

Cons:

  • Only useful for nature and wildlife photography.
  • Adds minimal bulk to the lens.

NIKON MONARCH HG 10x42

The Nikon Monarch HG 10x42 binoculars are an essential part of my gear for scouting and spotting wildlife from a distance. Their high-definition optics and 10x magnification offer an exceptionally clear, bright view, making them perfect for birdwatching and exploring landscapes before setting up for a shot. Whether I'm in a forest or on a mountain, they allow me to locate subjects quickly and efficiently.

Pros:

  • Compact and lightweight, making them easy to carry on any adventure.
  • High-definition optics with a 10x magnification for bright, detailed views.
  • Waterproof and fog-proof design for use in all weather conditions.

Cons:

  • May not offer as much magnification as larger models, limiting long-distance viewing.