Backpacking [ FOR PHOTOGRAPHERS ]
In recent years, national parks and other popular nature photography destinations have become increasingly crowded and potentially frustrating, with some even requiring reservations. With so many photographers crowding the parking lots and trailheads, perhaps it is time to skip those roadside locations and head deeper into the wilderness for a backpacking-based photography adventure.
Having worked as a backpacking guide as well as a photo guide, I would say my favorite photos are the ones I have worked the hardest to get. While backpacking isn’t for everyone, it is far more attainable than most people think. The best part about backpacking is that it allows you to spend a bunch of time in cool locations without crowds waiting for amazing light. At its roots, backpacking is really very easy, in that you are just putting a bunch of gear in a bag, walking to an inspiring location and unloading all that gear. Does it sound like hard work? Perhaps, but if you choose your photography destinations well and the conditions come together, the results can be exceptional. The best part is the experience and the photos you make are all your own—no crowds needed.
As for that work part, the trick with backpacking is to keep your pack as light as possible. While some backpackers and “through hikers” (people hiking hundreds or thousands of miles on the Pacific Crest Trail or Appalachian Trail) get their pack weights down to under 20 pounds, for us photographers, that really isn’t an option if we also want to carry serious camera equipment. However, over the years, I have
