Issue link: https://viewer.e-digitaleditions.com/i/1532277
28 | Viking Explorer Society News So, you're heading to Antarctica for the first time on a Viking expedition, and you're most likely brimming with excitement at the opportunity of experiencing this once in a lifetime wonderland. This article has been written with the sole objective of helping you, an amateur photographer, to capture the best possible images in this unique and photographically challenging polar region. There will most likely not be a second chance so aim to get it right first time. Viking offers excellent expeditions with experienced field guides and a wide variety of activities including landings and using water-based craft, affectionately referred to as "toys". You will need to be a nimble and well-prepared photographer as you move from the relative comfort and stability of the Viking Polaris or Viking Octantis sister ships to the swell and splashing in a zodiac or kayak. EQUIPMENT Buy the very best you can afford. This article is aimed at travellers keen to use digital DSLR or mirrorless cameras with interchangeable lenses though many of the principles of creative photography also apply to point and shoot and mobile phone users. For the serious photographer, we recommend 2 lenses, a wide-angle (24 mm to 120 mm) for general photos and landscapes and a zoom (100 to 400 mm) or more for wildlife and birds. Ideally two camera bodies are better than one, eliminating the need to change lenses quickly or outdoors in extreme weather conditions. Because of the ice and snow and the harsh contrasts between colour, light, shade and glare, we highly recommend lens filters including a circular polariser and a variable neutral density filter. These filters also bring out the true colours of the sky, ice and water, and prevent the "greying" of the snow. Take spare batteries and keep them on A photographic SPLENDOUR With years of experience behind the lens, Bob and Mike Lewy, regular Viking guests, share expert tips for capturing awe‑inspiring images in the polar wonderland. you when out photographing (battery power depletes quicker in cold environments) and plenty of high-speed memory cards. Ideally bring a hard disk drive and laptop for regular backups. Dry-bags are strongly recommended for use outdoors. We have one for each camera. They protect the cameras from snow, rain and splashing in Viking Zodiacs, kayaks and Special Operations Boats. Do not be afraid to use your cameras whilst on these toys. You will be missing out on some of the best photographic opportunities if you are too cautious and leave the camera on the ship. Always take a towel and at least 2 microfibre cloths with you on excursions. Allow your cameras and lenses to cool down and heat up slowly to reduce condensation in changing temperature conditions. We did not take tripods on our Viking journeys. Steady handholding in our view gives more flexibility particularly when shooting the actions of unpredictable wildlife or birds. A few keen video photographers did however use tripods on the ship. A good alternative is a monopod – lighter and takes less room in the luggage, and great for supporting most of the weight of a heavy telephoto lens whilst still offering flexibility in use. When making a landing, they are usually 60 -90 minutes, which seems short but its long enough, so think carefully what gear you take with you. Go as light as possible because you cannot sit or place anything down on the ice or snow. Image by Bob Lewy