Sunny Shrestha

Sunny Shresthahttps://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/about/contributors/sunny-shresthaSunny Shresthahttps://public-web-wn.uat.wng.me/create/learn/photography/trek-and-hiking-photography-tips-for-nepalPreparing for a trekking adventure? Find out what gear you need and how to take good care of it all.2017-01-23T11:00:00Z https://wng-kosmos-wn-cms-uat.kaos.nibit.com.au:443/create/learn/photography/trek-and-hiking-photography-tips-for-nepalhttps://www.worldnomads.com<div>Which lenses and how many memory cards do you need for a trekking adventure? Our expert goes through their photography packing list and gear care tips.</div> <ul> <li><a href="#trek-photography-gear">Gear for Trek Photography </a></li> <li><a href="#take-care-of-your-camera-gear"> Photography Gear Care </a></li> </ul> <h2 id="trek-photography-gear">Gear for trek photography</h2> <p>Trekking is a true test of your energy, stamina, and mental strength. At high altitudes, it’s always best to walk as light as possible, so gear selection is critical.</p> <h3>Camera body</h3> <figure><img src="https://media.worldnomads.com/Explore/nepal/sunnys-camera-gear.jpg" /> <figcaption>Pictured above is the Sony a6000 mirrorless on the left, and Nikon D7100 DSLR on the right. Photo credit: Sunny Shrestha</figcaption></figure> <p>For trek photography, we recommend carrying a single camera body. Unless you’re a working professional and can’t risk one of them malfunctioning.</p> <p>If you have the choice, get a smaller body to save you from getting a sore neck or hands from carrying a heavy camera all day.</p> <p>These days, mirrorless or micro-four-thirds cameras give you results comparable to traditional DSLRs – without the bulk.</p> <h3>Lens</h3> <p>When out for a trek, it’s most likely that you will be <a href="/create/learn/photography/landscape-photography-tips">shooting landscapes</a> the majority of the time.</p> <p>So avoid carrying multiple lenses or telephoto lenses and try to stick with wide-angle lenses (16-35mm lens for example).</p> <h3>Extra batteries</h3> <p>Electricity is rare at higher altitudes in Nepal. Locals depend on solar power to light up their houses and the power is usually not enough to charge your camera batteries.</p> <p>Instead of carrying the charger, carry some fully charged spare batteries. It’ll also be less clunky and easier to carry. If you have a mirrorless camera, check if it can be charged with a power bank. </p> <h3>Memory cards</h3> <p>Memory cards are small, easy to carry, and perform the all-important task of saving your photos. They malfunction quite often, so be sure to invest in some good-quality memory cards for your trip.</p> <p>Always carry a few backup cards too and if you’re doing a multiple-day trek, consider using a different memory card per day (or every few days) if you can’t back up at the end of each day.</p> <h3>Tripod</h3> <p>Unless you’re on assignment and need tack-sharp photos, avoid carrying tripods as a part of your trek photography gear.</p> <p>The additional weight will slow you down and make your trek less enjoyable.</p> <h2 id="take-care-of-your-camera-gear">Photography gear care</h2> <p>Once you’re <a href="/create/learn/photography/alpine-photography-get-prepared">in the mountains</a>, it becomes equally important to take care of your gear. <a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/weather-conditions-in-nepal">The climatic conditions</a> can have a severe effect on your photography gear if you’re not careful.</p> <h3>Avoid dust</h3> <p><a href="/explore/southern-asia/nepal/top-treks-in-nepal">While trekking in Nepal</a>, you’ll come across some dusty trails. Be wary of changing your lens in these conditions. It’s easy to end up with sensor dust in the rest of your photos.</p> <p>Carrying a <a href="https://www.amazon.co.uk/Ultra-Power-Hurricane-Blower-Camera-Cleaning/dp/B00GGCSLWK" target="_blank">blower</a> can be a good idea, but use it only if it’s absolutely necessary.</p> <h3>Leave the lens hood on</h3> <p>While you’re trekking, it’s likely that your camera will take a bump somewhere on the trees, your trekking stick, or even on the huge rocks on the trail.</p> <p>Leave the lens hood on to keep the glass safe. </p> <h3>Waterproof your gear</h3> <p>Weather at higher altitudes can get unpredictable. If your camera and lens are not weather-sealed, be sure to have a plastic bag handy for you to put your equipment in.</p> <p>Overall, always make sure that you have all the right gear with backup and charging solutions, and know-how to protect and take care of your equipment. The trick is to stay light while still packing the right gear.</p>Alexander Andrews 0