When you're out there in the crowd, the kind of gear you carry and how you carry it is important. You're often going to be working in limited space, so compact equipment is more practical. The likelihood of getting jostled or dowsed is pretty high, so you need to keep that fragile equipment protected. Last, but not least, there's always the possibility that someone may try to snatch your gear and run.
All of those factors and more make selecting the right equipment for those and other active photography genres an interesting process, to say the least. We're here to help, with the following list of suggestions from one of America's Favorite retailers.
Think Tank Photo Streetwalker Harddrive Backpack for Photographers
This low-profile, snug-fitting backpack will carry your full-frame camera with a 70-200mm lens and hood attached, along with a 15” laptop, monopod and/or tripod and other accessories securely, with locking zipper sliders to help keep your equipment safely tucked away. It features stretch pockets, a removable web waist belt and rain cover, and an organizer in the top pocket for your pens, memory cards, etc. It also comes with shoulder harness pockets, D-Rings for attaching slider straps and a sternum strap for extra security. There's even a clear business card holder for identification.
It's a smart, simple pack that will carry what you need for a full day's shooting, note taking and more, and protect it from the elements, including the human one. Get a better look at it here.
Benro A48FD Aluminum Monopod
A fast, lightweight monopod is a great choice for stabilizing your camera in a crowded environment. It sets up fast, isn't likely to accidentally trip passersby and it stows easily in a pack like the one above. We like this aluminum one from Benro, with its cushion grip, 8.8lb capacity and removeable mini-tripod base with a locking ball swivel. It extends to 68.5” and collapses to a mere 26”. Take a closer look here.
Canon Powershot G7 X Digital Camera
Every street photographer needs a quick, compact backup camera for those shots that might otherwise get away. The G7 X is a 20.2 megapixel powerhouse powered by Canon's latest generation DIGIC 6 Image Processor and equipped with advanced optics. Don't let the compact frame fool you; this is a serious camera that delivers excellent low-light performance and packs all the high-tech extras you need, like Near-Field Communication (NFC) to let you pair easily and wirelessly with your Android devices. Frankly, there's too much to list here, so take a look at this awesome compact camera here.
Sigma 70-200mm F2.8 EX DG OS HSM Telephoto Zoom (Nikon)
Since you're going to need a good 70-200mm lens to fit in that sweet backpack, why not go with a name you already know? This Sigma zoom will look and perform great on your Nikon.
Canon EF 70-200mm F/2.8L IS II USM Lens
Don't worry, Canon shooters, we've got you covered, too. You know you want L-series glass when you're out there. Here it is at its finest.
Sony FE 70-200mm F4 G OSS Lens
As if we'd forget about forget about Sony! Check out this beauty here.
That's a wrap for today, readers. There's a lot more where that came from, and our friends at Hunt's Photo are always adding new items, so if you didn't see the gear that you need, be sure to head on over to their site to see what's in store.