Hi, my current camera is a P&S GE X5 ( YES.. GE.. the same guy that makes light bulbs, and stoves )

Eventually I would like to upgrade to DSLR or mirrorless type

I have a few questions for the explorers who struts around with their DSLR during explore.

1. What kind of case/ backpack/ wraps do you use to bring your lenses. etc. for your explore.

2. How do you keep your lenses etc clean if and when swapping lens during an explore?

3. How much more weight or clumbersome to have those gears with you?

4. How often would you say you swap lens during an explore

Sorry noob questions regarding DSLR and explore.

I only have 2 lenses. I swap them a couple times during an exploration. I carry them in a backpack made for DSLR's.

The easiest thing to do is just find one lens that suits you best. If you have to swap lenses just make sure there is no dust floating around and be careful. I just use a good quality sling style backpack. That keeps my stuff clean enough. If you are planning to get really dirty I suppose you could put your gear in big zip-lock bags.

There are numerous options when it comes to carrying your gear. That said I would suggest a backpack. I have a lowepro , but again there many many options.

Additionally, the bag is also going to depend on what gear your going to bring. In most cases you're going to want something that will accommodate a tripod. You don't have to have a ton of lenses. The best lens is the one you have with you. However, a wide angle and a zoom will be a great start. You can always get more later if you really get into photography, like a fast prime.

Dust and moisture or going to be your biggest issue when swapping lenses. But thus far, it hadn't been too big of an issue for me. Keep your body facing down and worry more about getting the new lens on than protecting the old one.

It is a trade off between convenience and size... I like my current Tamrac because it is flat and fits everything i need, while being rather small. Also important feature to consider is how tripod attaches to it. I found that having tripod at the back is very impractical as it gets caught in stuff all the time. Best is on the side but you have to see if it is possible to attach it this way to the bag you're choosing.
Sometimes i even manage to cram tripod inside so it doesn't bang on stuff, making it the most portable combo.

Unless you are a professional photographer or planning on diving deep into urbex photography, a DSLR with a basic kit lens that has good zoom/range(Canon 18-135, Nikon 18-105/140) would work perfectly fine to start out. I currently work with a Nikon D7000 and the kit 18-140mm lens. The more you get into photography and urbex, you can save up more to buy better lenses later if you desire. A good 50mm lens or wide angle lens is a great second lens choice.

I own a Amazon Basics camera back pack. It fits my camera and will fit multiple lenses and other accessories as well. Has straps for a tripod. Find it on Amazon, good price and great quality.

Other equipment you may use will include a video light, external flash, brackets/mounts(if you do videography too like I do). A flash light or headlamp is always good to have with you too.

Hope that helps!
-Daniel-

I picked up an inexpensive $35 camera backpack on Amazon. All in all my pack with tripod comes out to 14-16lbs, depending on any extras I bring along. I carry the pack without the tripod everywhere though, so I don't notice the weight as much as someone else might.

Posted by Dr_Fu_Manchu Keep your body facing down and worry more about getting the new lens on than protecting the old one.

And make sure you turn the camera off before swapping lenses. The electrical charge of the sensor will attract dust when it's on.

Posted by FloodSpectre And make sure you turn the camera off before swapping lenses. The electrical charge of the sensor will attract dust when it's on.

I wish someone had told me that in my beginnings. It should be obvious to not do it but without the reason, it's easy to forget to double check. I still hold my breath like a goof while switching lenses out and feel like Indiana Jones swapping the weight bag for the gold idol every time.


I'm still liking my Fastpack 250. I got mine for around $80 and my bud picked his up used off CL for $30.
I get bored and write words: http://www.higherg...stpack-250-review/

Posted by skatchkins I wish someone had told me that in my beginnings. It should be obvious to not do it but without the reason, it's easy to forget to double check. I still hold my breath like a goof while switching lenses out and feel like Indiana Jones swapping the weight bag for the gold idol every time. I'm still liking my Fastpack 250. I got mine for around $80 and my bud picked his up used off CL for $30. I get bored and write words: http://www.higherg...stpack-250-review/

Have the exact same bag. Couldn't recommend it more. I travel by plane almost every week and this bag goes right with me. It's taking a beating and still looks great. It also has a pocket where you can slide a Mac and and iPad in. Plus you can grab your camera while still wearing it. Worth the price at 80. at 30 bucks its no brainer.

Things to keep in mind between a mirrorless and a DSLR is that if you want to shoot wide, it's gonna be more expensive to get a wide lens for a mirrorless. Most mirrorless cameras have a crop factor of 2x, so that means if you get a 35mm, that's actually 70mm on a mirrorless. Most DSLRs are around 1.5 crop factor, so my 12-24mm lens for my DSLR is actually 18-36mm.

That said, I love my Panasonic GX1 with the Olympus 17mm 2.8 lens. You can get a used GX1 from www.keh.com for as low as $215 and you can get the 17mm 2.8 for $149 at the same place. Anyway, if you decide to go DSLR, check out the used gear at KEH, they have a really good rating system and I've never had an issue with any used equipment I've purchased from them.

If you decide to purchase elsewhere and get a slower kit lens (f/3.5-5.6), you'll want to look at a fairly decent tripod for darker spaces. I'd suggest the Slik Sprint Mini II Tripod with Ball Head. You don't want to get a super cheap tripod for your expensive camera gear but you don't need something super heavy duty since there isn't much wind inside abandonments (and you don't want to carry a really heavy tripod either).

As far as bags, I'd look into dedicated camera bags if possible. What you end up getting depends on the kit you purchase but I have several different camera bags and prefer my Kata backpack. My 2nd favorite bag is a messenger bag for cameras.

Wow thanks for all the great info guys !!!
I never even thought of holding camera body facing down while changing lens, holding breath, and making sure its off before changing. These are awesome tips !!

I will look into a dedicated camera bag ( right now its just a normal backpack with a smaller bag I use to keep some stuff organized in it.. extra lights/ batteries/ juice boxes / garbage bag etc. And I clip my tripod on the side of the backpack.

I will look into the bags mentioned above by everyone and look through the reviews. Does anyone have a side backpack kind that may work as well? One that can have access without taking on and off. Reason being its kinda pain having to keep taking my backpack on and off to get to my tripod. So i'm assuming once I upgrade the camera, I would/may have to take more time to keep taking backpack on and off to include lens changes.
Or maybe I should look into getting a tripod bag at least then.

I just got a Manfrotto 190xprob4 tripod for christmas Mofo is heavy !! But I feel like I can poke a bear and beat hobos with it


ISO640

Thanks for the great info and link. will definitely check it out.
But being new to the whole DSLR world, what would you recommend to keep an eye on or look for when buying used? How do I know how many pics the shutter has taken? ( I read that thats important when looking for a used DSLR? )

Posted by Wong Guy ISO640 Thanks for the great info and link. will definitely check it out. But being new to the whole DSLR world, what would you recommend to keep an eye on or look for when buying used? How do I know how many pics the shutter has taken? ( I read that thats important when looking for a used DSLR? )

The older ones are probably going to have more actuation's than newer models, that said, you could always call KEH and ask if you decide to purchase from them, they would gladly tell you if they can. Also, if there's a DSLR you're interested in, then do some research for longevity. For example, I'm contemplating a full-frame purchase. I'm looking at possibly switching systems from Nikon to Canon because the Canon full-frame 5D Mark II's are cheaper than Nikon full-frames. Anyway, from what I've read even if the camera has something like 30K shots on the body, these cameras can last up to 100K plus. Over the last year, I shot about 10K worth of photos (on two different cameras). That means I'd get quite a number of years from a used camera. I suspect some of the older model cameras that KEH sells with the rating of Like New probably means a dedicated photographer didn't use them and will probably have very few shutter actuation's.

Finally, if you're near an actual brick and mortar camera store, go in and handle the different models. Doesn't mean you have to buy from them but it can give you an idea of which system you'll like.

Hope this helps.

About 80% of my photo gear was purchased used, never had any problem.

Dont forget that I only purchase from reputable dealers, I like KEH but there are two real camera shop with a small selection of used bodies and lenses in my town so I get most of my stuff there.

I've just decided to get a second DSRL body (to avoid changing lenses in dusty environment)... I got me a Nikon D200 for less than $200, with less than 5000 shutter count.

Go used, Nikon or Canon, both are great, get one that you like and go take some pictures...

I use the lowepro slingshot 102 (http://www.amazon....2-AW/dp/B003656Q7C) and it is a pretty great bag. I know a couple others that use it exploring too. The best thing about it is because it's a sling, you almost never have to take it off your back to get at your stuff. It may be a tad small for some, but I mostly use old nikon ai-s prime lenses and they tend to be small. I can fit 3 lenses + 1 on the camera, my flash, flash triggers, some filters, tripod, and there is still in the smaller pockets for random stuff. I wouldnt want to take anything bigger than this bag. Exploring with too much stuff takes the fun out of it. Also, in addition to the sling, it has a secondary clip that secures it tight to your back. running with this bag is no problem (which can be handy when things don't go right). Sorry for the wall of text, I just really like this bag.

I shoot primes and switch them out all the time. I've never not switched lenses because I was afraid of getting it dirty. Just be careful. Getting dust or moisture on the lens isn't the end of the world and really is not noticeable in your pictures unless it's really bad. Just get a decent lens cleaning kit. UNLESS it's sand. Sand will destroy your lens. My camera also has automatic sensor cleaning feature. I don't know how well it works, but I do use it every now and then just in case.

1. small camera bag that fits two spare lenses and one lens mounted on camera. Small bag gets stuffed into large backpack for hands free fence climbing etc. Tripod gets disassembled and goes into the same large backpack. I don''t like anything in my hands when accessing a site. Later on, once inside, I keep my camera mounted on my tripod and walk around with it over my shoulder, occasionally banging into things.

2. very carefully. I carry lens tissue for cleaning and also use the inside of my shirt a lot. I get prepared for a lens swap and do it as quickly as possible, keeping the camera tilted down a bit. Once the lens is connected to the camera, I cap the other lens. This doesn't prevent dust from getting on my sensor and then I have to deal with that later. (I never turn off my camera when switching lenses. Maybe I should start...) My friend carries a camera specific backpack with nothing but camera and about 7 lenses in it. He has another bag for his tripod, and also carries a water bottle separately. This drives me crazy so I go for the one bag approach.

3. You get used to it. It is what it is and I don't even think about it anymore. I'm a photographer, therefore I carry around gear and the gear is heavy. I'm already running up against limitations with my new Nikon D7100 and am now considering full frame. It just gets heavier.

4. sometimes never, sometimes 5-6 times depending on the situation/site. I carry a 10-24mm, a kit lens 18-55mm and a 35-105mm zoom. I use UV filter on my wide angle lens since it cost $900 and I bang it into stuff occasionally.

If you're interested in high-quality photography I strongly encourage you to get a DSLR. You just can't get the kind of pictures I get with a point and shoot camera.Go DSLR and don't look back. Mirrorless seems very promising as well, but wait a bit for the tech to mature.

All my gear for a 12 hour shoot where I'm walking 9 miles roundtrip (ignore the camera manual. Not sure why this is in the picture). This is pretty much the exact same thing I take for a 4 hour shoot with no walking, but with maybe just a small snack.


ends up weighing 25-30lbs with water, food and coffee. This is now my standard kit after refining it for 7 years. There is literally nothing I can do without in this setup, except the coffee for short trips. Stay up all night trips, you better believe I have the coffee and I'm always the last one shooting good pics.

-free

I use a nice shoulder sling, but have found that during "urbex"
(I hate that word) it is usually not a necessary, bring-along item.

If I am entering a tournament, museum, parade, or other densely populated area or event that I plan to shoot, I wear the sling proudly.

The sling prevents people from wanting to steal the two grand worth of camera equipment in the blink of an eye. This gives me peace of mind and more comfortable shooting conditions.

I like the sling. It enables me. I may now instantly pull the camera up to eye level, from a fixed position (usually set to waist height).

When I DO use a tripod, the camera remains attached at the release plate for the greater part of the day until I am done shooting.

Ive yet to find a dedicated camera bag that suits my needs. Having a bag like that definitely makes things quicker and easier but im finding a lot of them dedicate too much space to cameras for my needs. I just carry a regular backpack which ive sewn tripod straps on the side to which a smalled camera case inside that will fit my body w/lens, hood, flash, and some cleaning equipment. One issue you may have is finding a backpack that will fit your tripod. I have a manfrotto and its amazing, i love it. However, it is a little big and heavy and the last time i found a camera backpack i liked i bought it, took it home, tried to put my tripod on it and it was just a horrible awkward and impractical fit.

If you spend a lot of time in drains or dusty places and are worried about your equipment you might want to consider getting a dry bag. I have one that fits my small camera bag and other stuff i need no problem and its awesome for places like drains. This is the one I have: http://www.amazon....RE/ref=pd_sim_sg_2

It's not as convenient to get things in and out of, but I love having it in situations where I find myself on a boat or somewhere I need waders. Since I'm generally carrying thousands of dollars of camera equipment, it helps to put my mind at ease lol.

The backpack I use looks like this (and I didn't pay full price for it, just FYI):



I made sure when looking for a camera backpack that I could fit a laptop in there. It fits everything I need, though I wish the tripod went on the front of the backpack instead of the side but it gets the job done.

http://www.bhphoto..._467_DL_Black.html

1. What kind of case/ backpack/ wraps do you use to bring your lenses. etc. for your explore.
- I wrap mine in a neoprene camera shell, and forgo the "DSLR" bag. I also have refactored camera lens "bags"
like what comes with Canon's "L" glass. I have two or three bags around to hold lenses. Why? Because I travel as light
as possible and having a "camera" bag in areas where abandonedments are - usually is pretty sketch. You don't want
to have a neon "camera" bag on you, that says rob me.

2. How do you keep your lenses etc clean if and when swapping lens during an explore?
- Don't swap lenses when you splore. Do it in your car, and a little intel before you go in so you know what lenses you'll want to use. Abandonedments are usually not clean
places. Most have open windows. Most have blowing wind. The outside environment is not nice for changing lenses. Unless you can find a spot in a corner of some inner room of a complex - avoid at all costs, changing lenses in the field. Just asking for trouble. If you MUST, fine a place where air doesn't move through the area you are in. This means, less chance of kick up of dust. Search youtube for "how to change a lens in the field", for proper techniques to AVOID dust getting "in" your camera or the back element. Bring a brush pen to dust off around the lens and the lens front element itself when do this as well.
- My bag is a photojournalist type bag - meaning, low key ... no big camera logos, and has a bottom tripod wrap on the bottom. over the shoulder sling style.

3. How much more weight or clumbersome to have those gears with you?
- 10-12lbs.
DSLR, two lenses (one wide, one tele usually 24-105 .. something that covers a large range, but not insanity)
work / gloves, resperator (varies depending on trip, but max is about 1.5 lbs double air intake)
head-band flash light
mini-mag, medium size - or a rocket-lamp LED for emergency
small legs - on bottom of bag
small first-aid kit, bug lotion (avoid the sprays, they are like like smokers - they leave a "smell" for you to be found)

4. How often would you say you swap lens during an explore
Maybe once, if its a huge / long splore - namely 3-4 hours of splore efforts.

Posted by ISO640 The backpack I use looks like this (and I didn't pay full price for it, just FYI): http://static.bhph...500/IMG_254442.jpg

a.k.a. The "ROB ME" bag.