Photography is a form of art that allows individuals to express their unique vision and perspective. Studying photography provides a platform to explore creativity and experiment with different techniques, styles, and subjects. Students are able to convey emotions, stories, and ideas through visual imagery.
Students can open up a range of career opportunities. Photographers can pursue professional paths in fields such as photojournalism, commercial, fashion, wedding, fine art photography and more. The demand for visual content in the digital age provides avenues for photographers to showcase their work, collaborate with clients and establish successful careers.
Photography gear plays a significant role in enabling students to learn and develop their technical skills. Using quality equipment ensures students have access to the necessary features, functions and capabilities that facilitate their understanding and mastery of photography techniques.
For this reason, we’ve decided to put together a basic photo and video kit, aimed specifically at photography and filmmaking students.
Cameras
Cameras are the primary tool that allows students to bring their vision to life and embark on their journey of visual storytelling and artistic, as well as technical growth.
The Canon EOS R8 is an entry-level full-frame mirrorless digital camera that features enhanced video capabilities. It’s the ideal camera for students studying photography and/or filmmaking, as it allows you to instantly switch from stills to video. With a larger sensor comes a shallower depth of field and more dynamic range. This allows for the capturing of more detail in highlights and shadows.
- 24.2MP Full-Frame CMOS Sensor
- DIGIC X Image Processor
- 4K60p 10-Bit Video
The Nikon Z5 Mirrorless Digital Camera is the perfect companion for students, as it consists of a well-rounded feature set to suit both photo and video needs. It allows students to show off their creativity, with its outstanding expressive performance and reliability. The Z5 is perfect for long hours of shooting and offers large storage capabilities.
- 24.3MP FX-Format CMOS Sensor
- EXPEED 6 Image Processor
- UHD 4K and Full HD Video Recording
The Fujifilm X-T30 II Mirrorless Digital Camera received the “EISA Best Buy Camera” award for 2022-2023. It features a revised image sensor and processor, both high-resolution stills and 4K video can be recorded while an enhanced autofocus system delivers fast and accurate focusing performance. Every element of the Fujifilm X-T30 II has been designed with photographers in mind, in the hopes of lighting up imagination and inspiring creativity. Lastly, with its vintage aesthetic and charm, photography and filmmaking students are awarded a truly immersive photographic experience.
Lenses
It’s important for photography students to start with a few versatile lenses that cover a range of focal lengths and shooting scenarios. As they progress and gain experience, they can expand their lens collection based on interests and the specific photography genres they wish to pursue.
All of the above camera options listed are sold in kit options. These kit options are recommended to students for affordability reasons and the versatility zoom lenses offer.
The Canon EOS R8 Mirrorless Camera kit option includes a RF 24-50mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM Lens. This lens is a great starter lens and excels in everyday use. It boasts powerful image stabilisation for both video and stills and compensates for up to 4.5 stops of camera shake, to improve handheld scenarios. This ensures a smooth, quiet focus with instinctive control.
The Nikon Z5 comes with a Nikon Z 24-200mm f/4-6.3 VR Lens option. This all-in-one 8.3x zoom lens covers everything from wide-angle to telephoto focal lengths taking you from landscapes to portraits. Its advanced optical design allows for sharp, clear image quality with high contrast and accurate colour rendering.
The XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 R LM OIS Lens is included with the kit for the Fujifilm X-T30. This lens offers students the ability to work in difficult lighting conditions, with its f/2 aperture. A super EBC coating also improves contrast and colour neutrality by reducing flare and ghosting when working in strong lighting conditions.
Students can also look towards adding to and diversifying their photography kit (if possible) with a variety of different lenses. You can’t go wrong with fixed lenses like a 50mm or 85mm lens. Another popular recommendation is a 35mm prime lens for its wide angle and shallow depth of field.
Memory Cards
Memory cards are indispensable for capturing, storing, and managing digital images in a convenient and efficient manner. Different types of memory cards are available to suit various cameras and performance requirements.
Speedlights
Incorporating speedlights into their practice allows students to expand their creative possibilities, gain a deeper understanding of lighting and enhance the quality of their images.
External Hard Drive
Photography generates a large volume of data, especially when shooting in RAW format. As students progress in their photography studies, their collection of photographs, videos and projects will grow, requiring ample storage space. An external hard drive provides additional storage capacity, ensuring students can manage, store and protect their valuable work throughout their academic and professional journey.
Camera Bag
Choosing a well-designed camera bag that meets the specific needs of a photography student can significantly enhance their shooting experience and protect their valuable equipment.
Students may also be interested in exploring our equipment rental services. We offer studio and gear rentals as well as a wide variety of workshops.
Studying photography is incredibly special, as it combines artistic expression and technical skills. It offers a unique way to perceive and interpret the world while capturing moments and preserving memories. So as a photography student, ensure you have the right gear on your studying journey.
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