Photography Equipment
Gear doesn't make the photographer, but the right equipment, well mastered, can free your creativity and let you capture your vision without compromise.
💡 Equipment Philosophy
The best camera is the one you have with you. Before spending thousands on high-end gear, learn to master what you already have. A talented photographer will take better photos with a smartphone than a beginner with a Nikon D850.
Gear opens technical possibilities, but it's your eye that makes the photo.
📷 The Essentials to Start
For landscape photography, three elements are truly essential:
A suitable camera body
No need for the latest pro model. Look for:
- A recent full-frame or APS-C sensor (good ISO noise management)
- RAW mode is mandatory
- Weather sealing appreciated for tough conditions
- Good battery life
A versatile lens
Favor quality over quantity:
- A wide-angle 16-35mm (or 10-24mm for APS-C) for broad landscapes
- A 24-70mm for more versatility
- Constant f/2.8 or f/4 aperture preferred
- Avoid 18-200mm zooms: poor quality
A solid tripod
This is THE compromise not to make. A cheap tripod will shake in the slightest wind. Invest in a carbon model, stable, with a smooth ball head. Criteria: acceptable weight for hiking, sufficient height, stability even when fully extended.
🎒 Useful Accessories
Filters
Polarizing filter (reduces reflections, intensifies sky), ND filter (long exposure in daylight), GND filter (graduated neutral to balance sky/ground). Invest in quality (B+W, Hoya, Lee Filters).
Photo backpack
Comfortable, durable, with quick access. Capacity suited to your gear + clothes for the day. Hydration compartment appreciated.
Memory cards
Multiple fast cards (UHS-II minimum) rather than one huge one. If one fails, you don't lose the entire session. Always bring backup cards.
Cleaning kit
Microfiber cloth, blower, lens wipes. Keep your gear clean, especially by the sea or in the mountains (dust, sea spray).
❌ What NOT to Buy
Save your budget by avoiding these traps:
- All-in-one zooms 18-300mm: poor optics, weak variable aperture
- €30 tripods: unstable, unusable
- Cheap UV filters: degrade image quality
- No-name batteries and memory cards: failure risk
- The latest €4000 camera if you're starting out: learn the basics first
🧼 Gear Maintenance
Take care of your equipment so it lasts:
- Clean the sensor regularly (by a pro or with a proper kit)
- Protect lenses with lens hoods and caps
- Store dry with anti-humidity packets
- Check and clean after each outing in harsh conditions
- Get serviced every 2-3 years with heavy use
✨ In Summary
Invest wisely: a good tripod and a bright lens will do more for your photos than a high-end camera body. Master your current gear before buying new. And remember: the best photos come from your vision, not your equipment.
