Camera Body

        Nikon D80. Same megapixels as the D200 but in a smaller package making it more convenient for hauling around in a pack.

Lenses
AF-S Zoom-Nikkor ED 12-24mm f/4G IF DX AF-S Nikkor ED 18-55 f/3.5-5.6G II DX AF-S Nikkor ED 55-200 f/4-5.6G DX AF-S Nikkor VR 70-200mm f/2.8 G IF-ED

    Medium Format (What the heck is Medium Format?)

        When I feel like lugging around more weight, I take my Yashica-Mat 124G. Its a TLR, or Twin Lens Reflex, which means it uses the top lens for composing the picture and the bottom lens for actually taking the picture. The Yashica is very similar to the Rolleiflex 2.8 GX but costs about $2300 less. That's one reason to get one, but, at the right f-stop its every bit as good. 

    The Rest

        My tripod is a Velbon Chaser EFL-4. Like most things it's a compromise, but for me it was the best. Lightweight, compact, reasonable height, and the legs spread nearly horizontal so it can get very close to the ground. I also have an extremely flimsy $20 Kodak tripod, which is also extremely light. Quite often I will use a cable release for use with slower shutter speeds. I also use a bubble level, seen at left.

Last but not least, filters. I don't carry many and I try not to use them but they still see a fair amount of use. Probably my most used filter is the polarizer, to darken skies and reduce reflections. Occasionally I will also use Hitech graduated neutral density filters in a Cokin mount.

© Mason Vranish Photography. All Rights Reserved.
                                                         All images, graphics, and text are the copyrighted property of Mason Vranish. Use only with written permission.