Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Tip of the Month
Essential Gear for Safaris
December 2012
I'm writing this Tip in the Nairobi Kenya airport, having just completed our last safari for the year, marking our 30th year of doing safaris. Several participants were using equipment that we've recommended, and loved the products, and based on their feedback and my own experiences as well, here's some of the equipment that Mary and I feel are essential.
Long Lens Bag - by Vertex. I designed the prototype for this bag, making something that would fit all of my needs on safari. John Stanford, the owner of Vertex, polished and refined that design to make an extremely functional bag that is absolutely loved by everyone that uses it. The bag straps securely to the back of a vehicle seat, minimizing any rocking and keeping the lens safe from falling off a seat. A big lens can easily be drawn from the top of the bag, making the bag like a pistol holster, for a quick draw to have the lens up and ready to go. Some folks, and I certainly agree, that it is the best purchase they've made for the safari.
Kiboko Camera Backpack by GuraGear. Mary and I have the original version of this, the most versatile and efficient camera backpack we've ever used. With two compartments that can be custom divided this lightweight pack can be configured as you like it. We keep one side completely open, so that we can place our 500mm with a camera attached inside, while having the other side for more cameras and lenses. Most of our participants are now carrying Keboko bags, and all love them. A new model has a compartment on the outside for a laptop, too.
Vested Interest Beanbags. Several companies make beanbags but the ones I use, and love, are made by Vested Interest. The bags have four sets of snap-straps, so the bags can be securely anchored to a vehicle railing, or, as I often do, loosely strapped in so that it is easy for me to slide the bag along the roof hatch or to pile one atop another if I need the extra height. I'd recommend a minimum of three bags for a safari, one for each side of the vehicle and the third either as a 'floater' for stacking or to place on the front or the back of the vehicle hatch.
Molar Bag by Vertex. Some people never shoot from a side window for a low angle but if you do a Molar Bag is wonderful. Shaped like a molar tooth where the molar roots span either side of the window sill and the molar crown, a flat surface, forms the lens rest. There are several styles available but I'd suggest the Mini-Molar for safaris, as it works fine (it is the one I use) and takes less beans so it is much lighter than the other versions.
Module One Arms by Wimberley. The Wimberley equipment is wonderful, and the modular aspects of some of the gear is perfect for safaris. By using two Module Ones mounted onto the quick-release plates (supplied by Wimberley or Really Right Stuff) so that the arms point in opposite directions and thus form an extremely stable and safe platform for resting a long lens.
Hoodman CF Cards. Although an even newer and more efficient Hoodman card is now available (released while we were away) Mary and I have veen using the 675X cards for almost two years. They have never failed us, and they write to the camera and download to a laptop extremely quickly. When I first used the Hoodman cards I tested the writing ability and buffer, and although I 'buffered' out at my camera's built in buffer, I was able to continue to shoot one at a time almost continuously, and I stopped the test when I had shot 75 shots as there was no end in sight.
Gitzo Monopod 5561T by Manfrotto. I've always been a big proponent of a sturdy camera base, namely a tripod, but last year I started using a Monopod for our Rwanda Mountain Gorilla treks and I loved it. Mary, who is the LAST to ever adopt a change, did so as well, and agreed with me that it was the best tool for gorilla trekking. This year, most of our gorilla trek participants used tripods (for one group everyone used them!) and the ease of shooting was unprecedented. On safari, I usually don't use a tripod or a monopod, although I sometimes find one useful when I'm following birds in flight and here a monopod will work just fine. In the future we'll be carrying along just a small tripod for those times when I need to mount a camera in an isolated spot, but we'll each have a Monopod along for all of our other shooting. In fact, I even use a monopod when I'm doing remote Range IR shots, where I lash the monopod on to a support, resulting in a firmly mounted 'pod and camera.
Range IR by Cognisys. If you would like to do unmanned photography, either at a bird feeder, water hole, or night setup (like we've done for bushbabies, genets, and bats) the Range IR is the most convenient, efficient, and useful tool you could use. Check out my various Stories behind the Photograph postings for multiple examples.
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Take our Digital Nature Photo Course FIRST!
GPS and Home Security
Range IR Camera Remote
Gitzo Monopod 5561T Monopod
Easy Macro with Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
Check out our latest website,
mcdonaldwildlifephotos.com
where we'll be adding portfolios and eventually building up
a searchable data base for photo buyers. We've just started,
and the selection is limited, but it is still worth a visit!
Office Phone: (717) 543-6423
Or FAX us at: (717) 543-5342
Previous Tips, July 2009 onward
Extension Tubes and Zoom Lenses for easy Macro
FotoSharp Camou Rain Covers
Canon 17mm T/S Lens
Locking Button for the Canon 7D
NIK HDR Program
Silver Efex Pro for Black and White Images
Beware the DELL Software Solution Rip Off
How and What We Pack for Trips
Canon Digital Learning Center
The Movie Mode with the Canon Mark IV
Batch Renaming in Bridge and CS5
Alternate Uses of some Bogen Products
Hoodman Products
Using High ISO and Live View for Focusing in Dim Light
Art Print Scams for Hungry Photographers
Hungry Vultures ruin vehicles in the Everglades
Use a Short Lens for Depth of Field
Get Professional Help!
Mini-Molar Bag
Access America Trip Insurance
Bogen Base for Macro Work
Archived Tips of the Month
prior to July 2009
Most of my original Tips of the Month for the last several
years are available through this link. The 'look' is from my
original web site, although if I ever have enough time I might redo these pages to match the new web site But that's not a high priority.
