Stock Shot Savvy: EDITION #1 – EQUIPMENT

Whether it is your first time photographing a county fair or you are looking to upgrade your camera, we all ask ourselves: do I have everything I need? Being prepared is key to success in any profession. Whether that is having the correct information, proper clothing, and especially the correct equipment. Being prepared with the equipment that works best for your photography style and creative process is a key part to producing high quality livestock images. Let’s explore different tools we can use to be prepared and successful livestock photographers.  

CAMERA  

To start, we need a camera. Although our iPhones continue coming out with a new and improved camera each year, a high-quality professional camera is still the best tool to produce high quality images. The brand you choose to work with depends on a variety of factors including budget, comfort, and experience. Personally, I use a Nikon camera because I have experience with Nikon equipment and it was budget friendly. Other popular brands include Canon and Sony. When purchasing a camera, there are a few things to notice… (1) is it new or used and at what price (2) shutter count – too high of a shutter count on a used camera can cause unplanned maintenance issues sooner than expected (3) specifics – things like the lens mount and is the display screen adjustable.  

• Professional camera is best 
• Camera brands can depend on…  
  • Budget 
  • Comfort  
  • Experience 
• Popular camera brands: Nikon, Canon, Sony 
• When buying a camera, think about these questions… 
• Is it new or used & what’s the price 
• What is the shutter count 
• Specific features such as the lens mount & display screen 

LENS 

After we have our camera, we need a lens that works to our advantage. While portrait photographers may prefer a prime lens (a lens with a set focal length), livestock photographers need a zoom lens. Zoom lenses allow us to adapt to different environments as well as keep us, the livestock, and the exhibitors, and our equipment safe. For backdrop images, I use a 24-120 zoom lens. For ring shots and sale stock images I prefer a zoom lens with a longer range. Lenses like the 24-400 or 70-300 lenses are good options. The most important thing is to work with a lens that meets your needs, budget-friendly, and fits with your creative process.  

• Zoom lenses are more functional & practical 
• Shorter lenses for smaller areas and backdrop images 
• Longer lenses for large arenas, showrings, or pastures 

TIPS & ADDITIONAL EQUIPMENT 

Additional tips and tricks for equipment are (1) cleaning tools are useful to maintain quality equipment, (2) keep & use lens hoods and caps, (3) have extra batteries, (4) experience is the best teacher. Show barns can be dusty and dirty, keeping your equipment as clean as possible will help with the longevity of your camera. In addition to cleaning, using a lens cap keeps your camera lens safe when storing your camera between uses. Lens hoods also provide additional protection when getting the low, one the ground angles as well as keep stray sunlight from ruining your photos. Extra batteries are essential! Personal experience has taught me to have at least 2-3 fully charged batteries and a way to recharge them. However, you can’t always recharge batteries so having fully charged one ready to go saves time and stress. Finally, I can only share my experiences and opinions. The best way to learn is by trial and error. Find what works for you and your business. 

• Cleaning tools help maintain equipment 
• Use lens hoods & caps for better images and cleaner lenses 
• Have extra batteries  
• Experience is the best teacher

LET’S SUM IT UP!  

• Equipment choices vary based on budget, preference, and experiences 

• Zoom lenses are more practical and functional 

• Keep equipment clean and cared for 

• Have extra batteries  

• Experience is the best teacher  

WHATS NEXT? 

As livestock photographers, our lives are fast paced and busy. From quick turnaround times to working on our own livestock, we often don’t have time to search through dozens of websites, blogs, and podcasts looking for the correct and helpful information. However, every photographer utilizes social media, whether that is to connect to clients, stay up to date on livestock shows, or advertise and share our own work. Now we can use social media to learn as well! Don’t wait and check out Stock Shot Savvy on Instagram and Facebook to continue learning all about livestock photography tips and tricks from photographers across the industry. 

SNEAK PEAK: Next addition will feature a special guest and we will hear real world experience and advice.