What is a holiday without loads of quality photos? Pretty boring, that’s what. Apart from indulging in the experiences, you want to record them for posterity (and proof that the vacation happened). If travelling with a digital camera for this purpose, here are some tips to help you take the best care of it.
Padded Bag
Digital cameras are indeed delicate, especially DSLRs. Use a dedicated camera bag with adequate padding to shield it from hard knocks. Some are waterproof as well to offer extra protection.
Lens Care
Cover the lens whenever you’re not shooting. The last thing you want is (literally) grainy photos due to a dusty or sandy lens. Water is harmful too as it causes fungus to grow in the lens. If you have a lens hood, use it to buffer the lens from other objects. Carry a lens wipe and brushes for those moments when dirt does get on the lens.
Hand Luggage
If travelling by air try as much as possible to carry your camera as hand luggage. As much as security measures are tight, the safety of your gear isn’t guaranteed once out of your sight. Having it on you also takes away the risk of damage due to being bumped around.
Be Informed
Do your research to assess the safety rating of your destination. Some places are more dangerous than others- obviously not a good idea to go wielding your equipment openly. As an added measure walk with a friend especially if in a foreign country.
Hide Brand Markers
Use duct tape to cover the camera model name. Wrap some around the lens to conceal its type. Thieves are getting increasingly knowledgeable. They can tell the value of camera equipment from afar. Get an unbranded camera strap to enable your gear stay low-key.
Serial Numbers
Have these with you on your phone and email. In case of theft report it to the local police with the serial numbers as proof. Taking photos of each piece of equipment with its SN showing helps build your case.
