Archived posting to the Leica Users Group, 1997/03/14
[Author Prev] [Author Next] [Thread Prev] [Thread Next] [Author Index] [Topic Index] [Home] [Search]Robert, At the moment, the most versatile, easy to use, acceptable quality would be an N90s, a 35-70 f/2.8 and an SB26 with off camera extension cord. And a spare body (an 8008 will do). Plus an older MF 20mm. Cheap, pretty contrasty for scenics, small. I would recommend a R7 and 35-70 as similar quality except that, maddeningly , the lens doesn't focus close enough. Given the budget: Two M6s and 24, 35 and 90 and small Vivitar strobe. Also important: A Gitzo carbon fiber mountaineer with a ball head and quick release clamp. And quick release plates on cameras. Spare meter with incident capabilities. Travel underwear from Tilley and maybe clothes, because though they may not win fashion awards, wash and dry by air overnight and don't need ironing, so you could get by on minimal clothing. A small notebook that fits in camera bag for caption material. Rubbermaid 2 cups "servin' saver" containers that hold 19 rolls of unboxed, uncanned film in see through safety (and trouble free through airport security). One large polarizing filter, one 81B filter and one FLD or 30 Magenta filter with step down rings as necessary. One Rosco Plus Green and two 1/8 CTO warming gels cut to fit strobe and fitting with gaffers tape (store on strobe head). One Willis and Geiger jacket/vest designed by/for photographers. Domke bag big enough to handle the camera gear, all the film for the trip and the notebook. Marmot down vest with built in storing pocket. One cup travel coffee maker (got mine at Starbuck's Coffee; $30, invaluable at 4:30 when getting up for sunrise!). Model releases in appropriate languages ISee Location Photographers Handbook by Ken Haas) A card printed and laminated in local language that says: "Hello. I am a photographer and would like to include you in a photograph. May I have your permission?" Tylenol PM to help you sleep in strange surroundings. Optional: Romantic mate, but only if you can find one with whom you are very, very comfortable, who doesn't talk much and who doesn't need to have breakfast or dinner at normal hours and requires minimal maintenance. Language and negotiating skills a plus. Large red windbreaker (old Nat. Geographic trick) for putting on models in landscape. Robert Brummett wrote: > > Here's an exercise in strategy and tactics... > > You're off for a two- or three-month picture-gathering trip. You want (1) > people-- portraits, at-work/play/home, atmospherics and environmentals, > and (2) scenics/landscapes/color & flavor/detail. > > You can take anything you want, as long as it will go into the 2 checked > pieces and the 1 (small!) carry-on. (Remember to leave room for clothes!) > > What do you take, what do you put where, and what's your working plan? > > Looking forward to the wisdom & experience of El Grupo... > > Robert