In this article I’m trying to list my top small tools for photography. I’ve been traveling for the last few weeks and utilized all of these tools either while preparing for my trip or traveling. Here are the items!
Rotating Tripod Plate
Many cameras nowadays feature fully articulating LCDs also known as tilt-flip LCDs. I find them very beneficial for compositions from odd angles, however they do present a major issue. If you plan to mount your camera with an tripod, the traditional L-bracket could cause interference to your tilt-flip display.
I’ve always thought of an L-bracket as an essential piece of equipment. It’s the simplest way to take vertical pictures using an tripod (something I use frequently). However, on many modern cameras, like my Sony A7R V, any L-bracket stops the LCD from moving.
Certain companies have produced L-brackets that have cutouts to let the LCD rotate, however my opinion is that a more innovative option is a Rotatable tripod mount, like this one made by SmallRig.It’s been my most used accessory because I’m constantly using my tripod.
Although Smallrig is at present only making this model to be compatible to the A7 Series of cameras, I’ve seen them move fast to profit from new market opportunities. It may be worthwhile to let them know that you’d like this bracket to go with the camera you have.
In case you’re searching to buy something off the shelf that works with different cameras Silence Corner creates the Atoll that is compatible with Sony Canon/Nikon or DSLR cameras, identified by the models S C, S and D respectively. They aren’t as seamless since they’re not made for any specific camera model, however they’re the same great for photography with any camera that features a fully articulating LCD.
Nitecore BB2 Electric Air Duster
Like all photographers around this world, I use an old-fashioned rocket-blower to get rid of dust on my camera’s sensor and lenses. But, Nitecore’s BB2 enhances the concept to a higher level with an addition to it a strong rechargeable motor, as well as various brush attachments. It occupies less space than a standard rocket-blower and has the ability to generate speeds of up to 50 MPH! (This can be lowered lower for optical usage).
I haven’t been required to perform 800 cleans to test the claimed capacity however, suffice it to say that a single charge can last for quite a while. While it’s not as affordable as a traditional rocket blower but it’s still a reasonable price and significantly superior in actual use.
Nitecore offers a variety of extra brushes to clean crevices or dusting larger areas, but the availability isn’t as consistent across the major brands. But, it’s the air stream, not the brushes I’m so concerned about. I’ve also used it while in the studio taking photos of products to blow dust off the products.
201-in-1 Screwdriver Kit
The ability to access a variety of screwdrivers can be extremely helpful when tackling problems with gear and installing new equipment. Between the odd screws of Apple that aren’t as big, small Torx bits that are required by some electronic devices, and the myriad varieties of Allen as well as Hex bits that are used on plates and tripods it can feel as if you’re required to have a whole tool box.
I recently purchased the Jakemy set to take home from my office because the 201 in 1 set covers everything I’ve heard of, and much more. It’s more helpful than I anticipated, which is why I thought it was time to include it in this post! A better option for travel and packing your backpack is an multi-tool specifically designed for photography because it is the Jakemy kit is way too large for the majority of travel.
Fast Card Readers
If you’re anything like me (at at least up to some months ago) You’ve probably not paid much attention to the card reader you use. I’ve only purchased cheap card readers that could work with my specific memory cards, and I never thought about it.
Recently, however I encountered an odd issue with Lightroom slowing down when importing large amounts of data. I was capable of fixing this issue by switching to a speedier reader, which definitely brought me to my feet! I had become accustomed to my old setup, and was sat doing nothing, while hundreds of images were loaded. I am glad that Lightroom was able to fix that time-out issue as my choice to buy an improved card reader will help me save significantly time in the near future.
If you’re looking to upgrade your device I suggest one that has the lightning-fast USB C 3.2 Gen 2 interface, though the USB 3.1 is also a good choice.
Coast G20 Inspection Light
Similar to the screwdriver set, I’ve discovered that having a good flashlight can make a variety of tasks a lot easier when in the field as well as at the office. Although it’s true that the Coast G20 inspection light may appear unnecessary considering that the built-in flashlight on your phone but the uniformity and orientation of the beam makes it ideal to clean lenses, tracking the sensor, and other precise tasks.
What makes it special is the smooth and consistent beam. There’s no hotspot, there’s no falloff, and almost no shift in color. Since it’s powered by AAA-powered batteries, it’s an excellent backup option for outdoor use. It’s waterproof. I also keep it into my backpack when walking and even though I carry an additional headlamp or flashlight as my primary flashlight.
Replica Surfaces
This one’s more specific however, if you’re an artist having a suitable background and foreground is crucial. For any kind of close-up photography that requires an unchanging, yet “real everyday” backdrop, your best option is to choose an imitation.
To be honest, these are quite expensive, particularly in comparison to alternatives such as transparent paper and plexiglass. However, imitation surfaces are simply replicas of actual materials, however they have a massive capacity and weight advantage. For instance the surface of imitation marble weighs less than 2.5 lbs for a 30-by-40 inch surface. This is much easier to move than real marble!
It took me awhile to make the decision to invest in the idea of using fake surfaces however, now that I’ve done it the right one, I’ve found it to be is a fantastic asset for my photography business. It’s a lot like it’s more “relatable” than an untextured backdrop, as well as the result has been good to date.
Nitecore UFZ100 Rechargeable Batteries
There’s a wide selection of batteries that are available from the aftermarket in the market, and if you don’t have a couple of spares, I’d suggest buying some. I keep a couple in a tiny pocket inside my camera bag to make sure I’m not running out on the move. The Nitecore UFZ100 is unique in that it has USB-C charging integrated directly in the.
Although this feature is only available on their NPZ100 model, I’m hoping it will be available on other types of batteries in the near future. A growing number of cameras are able to use USB-C PD, or some other type of USB charging or power directly inside the camera, however this could be a bit difficult to utilize. With two UFZ100 batteries, you can to charge one with the powerbank and shoot on the other, and then recharge them both at the hotel without bringing the bulky, expensive charger.
In addition it also provides power level readouts directly within the batteries, making it easier to determine the batteries that are in your bag are fully charged. While it’s not the greatest resolution, only showing over 50% or below 10%respectively, it’s adequate to know the batteries that aren’t being used.
Conclusion
I hope you find this checklist of camera accessories helpful! The number of items available that it’s hard to know what’s on the market to begin with. Actually, I attended the NAB trade show earlier this month and was awestruck by the number of options available. New lenses and cameras make headlines everywhere However, these smaller businesses are also innovating at a rapid pace.