Traveling to NZ. Can't decide what to buy.

[PhotoMonger]

Ok,
Traveling in New Zealand for 3 weeks. I'm renting a 17-40L with polarizer and I need some advice on accessories. I'm looking to spend no more then $200. Should I go with a new Tripod (current one is cheap freebe kind) or a ND grad system.

I'm looking at the Cokin-P system or the 055XDB w/ 484RC2 ($186).

Hobby photographer, into landscape.

Thanks.

[EmmyLou]

When are you going? My sister is going too soon.

[PhotoMonger]

We leave Feb 4th. Renting a van and touring the country.

[RPCrowe]

A tripod (if you are willing to carry it) is a great addition to any camera kit.

A tripod will usually improve many shots because 1. A good tripod will hold a camera rock steady and 2. I tend to take a bit more time composing shots when I am using a tripod.

Having a tripod will facilitate 1. Pano shots which IMO are a wonderful way to achieve a wide angle aspect and 2. enable you to do HDR photography.

HDR could reduce the need for a GND filter. I am not really keen on GND filters because far to many shots using these filters show the obvious results of the filter being added. This to me is phony looking to say the least.

One problem with HDR photography using multiple images is that when you need 3 shots, everything in your frame needs to be still. Waves, foliage blowing in the wind or the presence of moving objects such as vehicles, animals or people could cause post-processing problems.

Roman Johnson (who I consider a great photographer) has posted a HDR tutorial on the Nature, Wildlife and Pet Photography Forum in which he uses one shot; therefore eliminating the problems with movement.
http://www.nwpphotoforum.com/ubbthreads/information/php/2007_Articles/rjohnston/roman2.php

Carbon fiber tripods are great because of their light weight but, they are usually pretty pricey also. I have heard some good things about Amvona tripods. I have not had any personal experience with these units.

I use a Giottos MT-810 tripod which I love. It is tall enough for me to use (I am 6'1") without extending the center column and is relatively light in weight for a tripod this tall and sturdy. It is pretty expensive also - being a carbon fiber model. Giottos offers some other tripods which are not carbon fiber at a much lower price.

[tnunnery]

Must be the season for NZ! I am going in March.

From what I have read, you will benefit by having a tripod and a ND Grad, especially for landscape shots.

I would love to read a trip report when you get back and I look forward to your photos too! Have a great trip!

[Denny G]

Don't rent anymore than you have to.

What do you have to take now?

[Wilt]

Go to the South Island!

If anyone is flying Air New Zealand, beware that you can take as carry-on only 7Kg in hand luggage and it is very strictly enforced (they let me on because it was 0.5Kg over the limit!), so pack photo stuff very wisely or expect to have to stick some of it into your checked luggage at the airport before it is checked!!!

From Air New Zealand web site: Pacific Economy Class customers may take one piece of cabin baggage with a maximum weight of 7kg (15lbs) and maximum total dimensions (length + width + height) of 115cm (45").

[crackennz]

It is true about the weight restrictions being 7kg but I'm pretty sure that you can carry a camera and laptop additional to that on board. I did recently on a trip with Air NZ from NZ to Prague via LA and no probs at all.
Oh and make sure you drive through Homer Tunnel to the Milford Sounds, even take a canoe trip across the sound (small part of it) and walk part way up the Milford Track.

[FotOz]

I did New Zealand in September 2006 - both islands. The south island is the pick of the country by a long shot. I took 2 bodies, 3 lenses and my tripod. Glad I did. PL filter for ALL daylight shots. Rented motor homes on both islands and had an absolute ball.

If you wanna see the entire world in 4 weeks, just do NZ.

The photogenic attractions are all signposted. Don't drive past a sign with a camera on it. Stop and capture. Even the areas that don't look too appealing from the roadway will surprise.

I shot 3,300 images and my wife around 300. Loved the place so much that we are going back real soon.