My Urbex Gear
CAMERAS – TRIPODS – FLASHLIGHTS
Good urbex gear is important. Not only you need good photography gear, a flashlight, tripod and other tools are essential. Here is a list of equipment i use.
Cameras
If you want to shoot stills or video, a good camera is one of the most essential tools. The good thing is: there are no bad cameras. It’s not the camera, only you can make your photos better. Better invest in a good tripod and a wide-angle lens.
I started photographing with an analog Nikon F50. But my first urbex shoot was with a small Pentax compact camera. In 2005, I bought my first proper digital reflex camera, the D70 from Nikon. I replaced that camera in 2008 with a Nikon D300, which was replaced by the Nikon D700, my first full frame camera.
I had a Nikon D800 for a short time, but I sold it to buy the Nikon D750 in 2015. A fantastic camera. In 2020, I switched to the Nikon Z-series, with the Z6 and Z50. The mirrorless camera is much lighter, also the lenses are also lighter and much smaller. Recent series are taken with the Nikon Z8 and Z50-II.
I also use other cameras on my trips. I had the Fuji X100 and X70, but today I always take my Sony RX100 V from 2017. It’s a nice small camera that gives professional results. The best thing: it fits in my pocket!
Lenses
Good lenses are important when you want to have good photos. If you shoot handheld, go for an f/2.8 lens. I always shoot from a tripod, so I’m happy with my f/4.0 lenses.
On my Nikon Z-series I use the Nikkor 14-30 mm f/4.0, and I use the Irix 11 mm f/4.0 for extreme wide-angle shots. On my D750, I mainly used the Tamron 15-30 mm f/2.8.
Other equipment
To take proper photos, you need more good urbex gear. Like, for example, a steady but lightweight tripod. I have a Sirui carbon tripod. You also require a good flashlight to find your way in dark places. Today, you can buy many good led-flashlights for a reasonable price.
For peace of mind, a first aid kit could be an important item. It will help you deal with everything from small cuts to open wounds. Be prepared, but also prevent accidents. Wear good boots and gloves, and always take a phone with you if you travel alone.
Also take food and water with you on a trip, and don’t forget antibacterial wipes to clean your hands.
