How To Carry Photography Gear

When preparing for a gorilla trekking trip, photographers must deal with a tough environment for camera equipment. High humidity, steep ground, thick plants, and sudden weather changes can affect electronics. To protect your gear and keep it easy to carry, a strong waterproof day pack with a rain cover is very important. Inside the bag, cameras and lenses should be placed in padded sections to prevent damage while walking.

Dry bags are one of the most important items to bring. They protect cameras and lenses from water, especially during heavy rain. While it may be tempting to carry many lenses, keeping weight low is very important because the trek is done at high altitude and can be physically demanding.

When it comes to camera weight, carrying less gear is often better. Heavy equipment can quickly make the trek exhausting. A simple setup works best. This can be one camera body with flexible lenses such as a 24 to 70 mm and a 70 to 200 mm. The 70 to 200 mm lens is useful for close photos of gorillas while still keeping a safe distance.

Flash photography is not allowed because it can disturb the gorillas. Photographers must know how to adjust ISO settings to handle low light in the forest. Practicing in low light conditions before the trek helps build confidence and skill.

During the walk, it is best to keep the camera packed away until the gorillas are found. This reduces the risk of damage. When the camera is in use, a cross body strap helps keep it secure. Humidity can cause lenses to fog, so silica gel packets and microfiber cloths are useful for keeping equipment dry and clean.

Battery life can also be affected by moisture and cool conditions. Carry extra batteries and keep them close to your body to preserve power. Make sure you also have enough memory cards to avoid running out of space. If using a smartphone as a backup camera, attach a wrist strap to prevent drops.

Hiring a porter is highly recommended for photographers. A porter can carry most of the equipment, making the trek easier and allowing the photographer to save energy for taking photos. During the gorilla encounter, the porter can stay at a safe distance while still providing support, helping create a smoother and more enjoyable photography experience.