What should I bring on a tour or to a workshop?

Steve Mermelstein

Published: November 12, 2009Posted in: Tours FAQ, Workshops FAQTags: Recommended, Tours, Workshops

At the very least, you should bring:

A working camera.
Any make and model will do!
Memory cards with free space or unexposed film.
We recommend you bring enough to shoot at least 100 photographs.
Fully charged rechargeable batteries or fresh disposable batteries.
Multiple layers of clothing and a jacket.
The weather changes pretty rapidly in Vermont and you should be prepared for temperature drops and rain or snow.
Comfortable closed-toe shoes.
We don’t go too far on foot anywhere but you’ll want to have a good pair of comfortable shoes that won’t make you cringe each time we stop.
A box lunch and/or snack and water and/or drinks.
Unless specifically stated, food and drinks are not included. We do have a cooler filled with ice for our guests. There aren’t many restaurants to stop for a meal and you probably wouldn’t want to waste the time but we can stop for provisions or go to a restaurant if that if that’s what you really want to do. Some of the general stores we pass still don’t accept credit cards so it’s a good idea to bring some cash.
Like the Boy Scouts say, “Be prepared.”
If you have any allergies or medical issues please bring along prescriptions and anything else you might need in an emergency.

We also recommend the following items, if you own them. However they’re not required so don’t feel like you need to run out and buy them.

A DSLR and multiple lenses.
Bring it all! From wide-angle to telephoto zoom and extenders. We’ll show you how to get the most out of what you do decide to bring. Don’t forget filters!
A backpack or shoulder bag for your gear.
Even in the back country of Vermont it’s not a good idea to leave any equipment unintended so you should be able to bring your expensive gear with you if you decide to stop and go into any stores or restaurants.
A sturdy tripod, ball head, and a cable release.
Besides the camera itself, a good tripod is easily the 2nd most important thing to have and will improve your pictures more than any other upgrade!
Flashes, Better Beamer, PocketWizards, reflectors, and other lighting accessories.
Sometimes the light just don’t cooperate and fill flash and other lights make your life easier.
Again, be prepared.
It’s not a bad idea to bring sunglasses, bug repellent, sunscreen lotion, and a change of socks.

We also stock our vehicles with a lot of useful items.