Fabio - 2005 532-2-2 copy

     I love shooting graphically, no matter if I have a person or an object in front of me. After all, it's all about the composition and the impact of the photograph.

     Unlike video I have a fraction of a second, one tiny moment, to convey shape, emotion, and sense of space. Not as easy as it sounds and I've spent years fine tuning my professional eye. It is a bit crazy when I go on vacation, for I cannot just bring a point and shoot. Instead, I lug DSLR's and my lenses back and forth so I'm always prepared for an image I've never seen before. When the time and the light is perfect I'm ready to shoot. I must admit that when I return from vacation I'm ready for another one to give my mind a break.

   For my travels a sturdy roller bag is a must and my Lowepro was worth every step I've taken with it. Made for camera gear, it fits comfortably in the overhead bin of an airplane and doesn't scream "EXPENSIVE gear inside!" It has been to Italy several times and all over the US. I've gotten it down to a science packing it, and can fit just about everything I need in it's customizable compartments. The flawless roller wheels are one of my favorite features. (The tripod does go in the checked luggage.) I went on-line and saw that the one closest to the one I purchased is the Pro Roller LIte 250 AW, which runs about $360. Again, not inexpensive, but mine has been reliable, durable and if I need another one I will definitely pick this one. 

     The other key to traveling is a sturdy backpack. I leave the roller bag when I'm hiking, and again I went with Lowepro. This one has been with me on my travels to Russia, and Poland and is a good 20 years old. It is showing it's age, but again it doesn't scream, "take me" so I will probably keep it for a few more trips. In addition to the inside pockets I made sure I had room for battery packs, snacks and water! As with traditional backpacks adequate padding for your back and straps that snap in front and on the sides are a must. Even though you may not look like a photographer, someone might attempt to take gear out of the bag when you're not looking. I always tie the zippers together to keep sticky fingers away.

     These photographs were made on my recent trip and I'm so glad to have brought my D800 and complement of lenses. I was struck on how majestic the oak trees and the barren grapevines looked and I spent the better part of my time in California looking for interesting trees and angles.

    I knew I wanted to convert this first image to be black and white and waited for a clear sky, but the one I've named "Heard it through the grapevine" was shot with HDR in mind. I do love digital for the freedom of creativity it allows me.

Fabio 2005 1964

All images are taken with a Nikon D800.

Images © 2013 Santa Fabio and are registered with the copyright bureau.

The disclaimer: The gear mentioned above is what works for me and my needs. What I use may not work for you. it's always a matter of personal tastes. Recently, I purchased a backpack from another vendor which I absolutely hate and will probably be getting rid of it soon. I receive no compensation from any camera manufacturer or camera related equipment.