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Going on Location

Going on location for a shoot takes a lot of preparation. I am not one for getting to a locale and having to go shopping right away for forgotten items. I keep a list in my computer of cameras and what each camera needs as far as batteries and filter sizes for each lens, as well as any extras such as a tripod, cable release, flashes and what camera bags I like to use. I also list personal needs such as passport, over nightbag, etc. This provides me with a check-list in one spot. I can also make a print out of the list so that I can make sure that I have everything upon my return. If I am going out of the country, I check on-line to make sure no shots are needed.

This past September, I was lucky enough to join the American Photo Mentor Series in Egypt. Before I left I had to decide what I was going to shoot ­ color, black and white or digital. I do not like to carry a lot of equipment and I do not like to go crazy while I am photographing trying to remember what is in each camera. I knew that it would be hot. I also knew that this was not a commercial job, but that anything I was shooting was for myself. It was all up to me. I decided to make it easy. I brought my Nikon F100 and 24 ­ 120 lens, with a red filter for my Kodak Black and white film and my Nikon Coolpix for shooting digital color. I could load up my Lowepro roll-away camera bag with tons of film because I was not carrying a lot of equipment. I keep my film in a bag so that I can take it out quickly to get it hand checked whenever possible.

What is the most important thing to take with me? Batteries, re-chargers, adapters and more film than anyone can imagine.