Tuesday, October 13, 2009
Tips for Casual Photographers
Because cold temperatures sap battery power, carry batteries close to your body to keep them warm and carry plenty of extra memory.
Protect your camera; rain and sea splash make waterproof bags essential, zip locked plastic bags will do.
You need a flash for photographs in the Antarctic to fill in shadows in the harsh light.
The ratio of shots taken to get a photograph you will be proud to show others – 5:1, so bring plenty of film.
If you are going to purchase a camera for this trip, do not invest in expensive gear, purchase waterproof disposable cameras instead.
If you plan to travel with a digital camera, bring extra memory chips – remember the 5:1 ratio mentioned above.
Tips for Serious Photographers
Gear You Can Leave Behind:
Your photographic vest, because you can’t wear it over the bulky parka that is mandatory for an Antarctic trip.
Your side-bag, as it makes getting in and out of a Zodiac difficult.
Tips for Digital Photographers
Invest in an image-tank, especially if you shoot in "raw" format, which creates large files.
Bring extra memory – the shooting ratios of 3:1 to 5:1 apply for digital photographers.
Bring memory sticks for uploading your photographs, to reduce the number of memory cards you should bring.
Bring a laptop only if you want to create presentations and manipulate your photographs before reaching home.
CDs and USB memory sticks for downloading can be purchased at the bar.
With the appropriate cabling, which you must bring, the ship’s computer can accept uploaded photos for CD burning.
The ship’s computer will be accessible only during specific hours will be posted on board.
All Photographers Should Know
Replacement equipment is not available on board.
Bring camera cleaning gear.
You cannot purchase replacement batteries onboard the ship.
Essentials
A watertight photographic bag.
Getting in and out a Zodiac is easier if you carry a specialized backpack with compartments for different accessories.
Bring a floating bag to carry photographic gear from one place to another.
The Antarctic light makes “bracketing” mandatory most of the time – when deciding how much film to carry the minimum ratio of shots required to one good photo – 3:1.
A good reliable, strong flash unit to fill in shadows in harsh light of the subantarctic islands and the snow of Antarctica.
A tripod.
Special bird shots may require a fast long lens, but for the most part a medium zoom is all you need.
Most Things You Should Know
Polarizing filters are useful, but not essential, because the air is very clear with no dust. Antarctic light can be harsh, become misty fog and move to blinding white because of the snow. Because cold temperatures sap battery power, carry batteries close to your body to keep them warm and carry plenty of spares. Disposable hand warmers carried in your bag or pocket next to the batteries keep them functioning in cold temperatures.
