Student Photographers: 5 tips to protect your expensive photography equipment for less when travelling
For avid photographers, investing in expensive photography equipment is worthwhile, not only to capture some impressive, high quality shots, but to feel rest assured that your kit will last for a long time, too. If you’re a student photographer, a clear, crisp photo becomes even more essential, to really make the most of your studies and the work that you produce.
Studying photography can see you jet setting to all kinds of incredible destinations, particularly if you’re planning on pursuing a career in travel photography. Whether it’s for your assignments, a freelance gig, or even just a holiday away. If you’ve got plans to venture further afield with your photography equipment, it’s best to make sure it’s well protected for the journey. Without, you could end up having to pay insane amounts to repair or replace any damaged devices.
Here are five top tips from The Case Farm, providers of protective cases and accessories, on keeping your expensive photography equipment safe from harm when travelling.
First thing’s first – invest in a quality, affordable protective case
A protective case is an absolute must when travelling with your photography equipment, and with so many on the market, you can be sure to find something for your needs.
Hard cases offer the best protection, especially for if your kit gets dropped or thrown about – not necessarily by you. Of course, hard cases tend to be more costly than cases made from a softer material, but there are plenty of high quality options for a price that students can afford.
Look out for waterproof and dust-proof guarantees
Check for guarantees that the case is both dust-proof and waterproof, to maximise the protection you give your equipment. You never know what kind of setting you’ll find yourself in, so it’s best to make sure that come rain, sea or sand, your camera will be safe.
While you might be tempted by the cheapest of cases, they might not be able to give you what you want. On the other hand, there are still plenty of affordable cases that will offer full protection, so be sure to read the product description before choosing which to buy.
Top Tip: Look out for an IP67 rating, which certifies the case as protective against dust and against water, even when immersed in 1 meter for as long as 30 minutes!
Don’t forget the additional accessories
If you’re wanting even more protection for your cherished camera and other precious photography equipment, think about adding in some accessories, such as a foam padding or dividers. These can soften the blow of any drop or impact the case might sustain, as well as keeping the various components of your equipment separate, so that they don’t clash and cause damage to one another.
Always take your equipment on board with you
We’ve all heard those horror stories of luggage being thrown about during its journey from check in to the plane’s hold. Sometimes, our luggage is returned to us in a slightly less healthy state than it was when we left it, or even worse, lost altogether! Why risk having your photography equipment damaged or gone forever?
Most airlines allow for cameras and equipment to be taken on board the plane with you, but it’s always a good idea to check before booking or checking in, so you know what your options are. As long as you make sure your equipment fits into a case that is small enough to be taken on as hand luggage, you should be fine!
Compare insurance and make note of the important things
Heading out anywhere with your equipment always poses a small risk of theft, wherever you may be. Insurance can help to replace any kit that you might (hopefully not!) lose on your travels, however it’s well worth comparing various insurance companies to make sure you are getting the best price.
Before travelling, make a note of any model or serial numbers on your camera, lenses, or any other equipment you’ll be taking with you. You never know, your property could turn up again and these numbers will help you to identify them, as well as prove that they belong to you.
