Do you want to start taking photos or even videos on your next hiking trip? There are tons of options out there, and it can get intimidating for a beginner. I like to carry camera gear that is very versatile and compact yet can get me a good quality shot while providing great video. Below is the camera gear I use on my hiking adventures.
Cameras
Canon sx740:
The Canon sx740 is an amazing budget point and shoot camera. The main reason that sold me on this camera was the zoom feature. This camera has a 40x optical zoom. With this range of zoom, you could focus in on the moon if you wanted. I say that because if you can take photos or video of the moon, you can really get some great shots ofbirds or animals without getting close and spooking them.
Iphone:
If you are like me, and everyone else you always have your phone on you. While hiking, I use my phone for GPS with the All TrailsApp and for photos and video. Smartphones have incredible photo and video quality these days and get better every time a new one is released. It’s easy and simple. The only option smartphones lack is a good zoom. This is why I carry a great zoom camera like the Canon sx740.
Canon Rebel DSLR
While you can get amazing quality and video from DSLR cameras, I typically don’t like to haul the bulkiness or weight of these cameras. I like to be as compact as possible without hiking with extra weight. However, if Itake my DSLR, it’s because I want to get some astrophotography shots. Whether it’s of the Milky Way or stars, this is really the only reason I will consider if the weight is worth it.
Canon 15mm Lens
While I have a few lenses, such as a 50mm and a 70-200mm, I use the Canon 15mm the most. This is because a wide-angle lens allows more light into the camera to allow me to shoot the stars and Milky Way.
Tripods
Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod
My main tripod is a Manfrotto Compact Action Tripod. This aluminum tripod is pretty lightweight at around 2.64lbs, easy to use and budget-friendly. My favorite feature is the handle that allows me to get easy panning video shots or steadycam style shots. The legs can extendto 61 inches to get any style shot you need. This is my first go-to tripod for any type of hike.
Joby 3K Gorilla Pod
The Joby Gorilla pod tripod is a handy little compact tripod. With its bendable gripping legs, you can wrap this tripod onto almost anything like trees, boulders, or handrails. I like having this tripod around in a dense forest, so I can attach it anywhere, such as a tree. The only drawback is that the legs do not extend, limiting your shots if you can’t find a place to attach it.
Accessories
Rode Video Micro
Built-in camera microphones do not have the best audio. That’s why I like to use the Rode Video Micro to get crisper audio. This is a great budget mic that is also small and compact.
The Rode Video Micro can also attach to your iPhone ifyou want crisper audio from your phone. However, to getthis microphone to work properly with your iPhone, you will need to purchase two additional wires; see below.
Manfrotto Phone Holder
I shoot a lot of photos and videos on my phone. So, this phone holder is my favorite, mainly for the angled and ridged teeth, which grip your phone. Hiking and climbing so many trails, I never worried that my phone would slip out of this holder. Another fantastic feature is the hot shoe mount on the top that allows me to mount the Rode Video Micro Mic, making this a great little video shooting setup
Drones
This past year, I loved flying around the drone (Mavic Mini) for aerial and fun shots. The problem is there are so many restrictions that it just hasn’t been worth packing around. Drones in National Parks are forbidden and even on DNR land in Indiana. It’s a very gray area, and for me,it’s just easier not to worry about breaking the law and/or getting a fine.
While this is just the gear I use, it’s not a set standard. I have found what works for me and my situation. This may not work for you, depending on what type of hiking you do. Play with your gear by trial and error to really dial in your gear list for each hiking situation. Whatever that may be, don’t let it deter you from going on your next adventure.
