Dawn at the Avon Fishing Pier during the Saltwater Retreat on Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

Dawn at the Avon Fishing Pier during the Saltwater Retreat on Cape Hatteras National Seashore in the Outer Banks of North Carolina.

 

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Recommended Gear List

I am a big believer in not telling anyone that they should buy something new.  However, there are a lot of tools out there that are fun to play with and could help you with your photography.  Please don’t take this as a shopping list, although….. if you have some money burning a hole in your pocket, shop away!

Required gear:  The only thing that you have to have for this retreat is a camera capable of shooting on manual and a lens.  Please be sure you bring your batteries, charger, and extra memory card.

Recommended gear:

  • Laptop or Tablet with Lightroom updated and installed. (optional, but recommended)

  • Tripod- Tripods are necessary for shooting in low light conditions as well as when photographing long exposures. Before purchasing a tripod, determine the weight of your camera & heaviest lens to be sure the tripod you choose can support that weight. I recommend these lightweight tripods: 
    Sirui Carbon Fiber Tripod
    Travel Tripod by Peak Design
    Manfrotto Befree Advanced

  • Filters- These are the filters currently in my filter kit. Before buying a filter, check your lens for sizing, you’ll want to buy the system for your largest lens and by a step down ring to fit smaller lenses. 

  • Lenses- A variety of lenses is nice to have, but magic can be made with one lens.  A wide angle can be fun, particularly on a crop sensor.  And a telephoto is helpful for shooting sunrises/sunsets, wildlife, and flowers.  My favorite all around lens is the 24-74 f2.8 lens.  It’s a reliable workhorse for me.

  • Rain/Dust Cover- this will also help if the wind is off the water and there is sea spray.

Please let me know if you have any questions or would like specific recommendations. 

One month out….

This is a good time to get your gear cleaned, update your insurance, and make any last minute purchases.  If you aren't in business, your gear should be covered with a rider on your homeowners insurance (Canadians, check your local laws).  Those with business intentions will need to get a commercial policy.  I have a very good policy through Allstate which covers total replacement for just $100/year.  It's a safety net that keeps me comfortable shooting in extreme conditions.   

Preassignment

See the link below…

  • I would expect it to be in the mid 70s-80s for the spring retreat and mid 60s-70s for the fall retreats.  I would suggest bringing layers, as the temperatures often dips in the mornings evenings.  And if a northeast wind comes in, you’ll want plenty of warmth to shield you from the sea breeze!  

    Dress the way you feel the most comfortable. You will be moving around a lot, so something you are comfortable squatting, walking, and getting sandy is best.

    Rain boots and jackets are recommended as we will shoot in misty weather if it occurs.  I don’t expect anyone to take their cameras out in a downpour (I won’t be), but sometimes even the sea spray makes you feel like wearing a waterproof jacket.  And the boots will be helpful for pulling on for walks on the beach if you prefer not to be barefoot or if it’s chilly.  

    Sneakers or other comfy shoes are recommended for the day of our outing as we will be doing plenty of walking.  

    I need to also ask a favor of you all.  I have an allergy to perfumes and artificial fragrances so please refrain from wearing perfumes or scented lotions.  

    Please let me know if you have any questions or need any help with packing ideas! 

  • sunscreen

    hat

    sunglasses

    shoes for the beach (I prefer to go barefoot, but you might prefer an old sneaker or sandals)

    comfortable shoes for walking (not on sand)

    bathing suit (the house has a hot tub (OBX only) and you might want to take a dip in the ocean during downtime)

    windbreaker

    sweatshirt

    camera body

    lenses

    memory card

    batteries & charger

    tripod

    filters

    remote trigger or phone app shutter release

    laptop or tablet (optional, but suggested)

    camera backpack

    plastic camera cover (optional, but helpful in high wind or light rain)

    National Park Passport Book (if you collect NPS stamps)