3 Tips for Pregnant Photographers

Being that I'm 6 months pregnant, I've had to make a few adaptations to how I do things photography wise. Here are three tips:

1. I realized when shooting a wedding last weekend that baby does not like a huge camera (with battery pack) resting on her head. I switched to our Black Rapid shoulder strap and all was well. As a side note, Gary uses two shoulder straps during receptions so both cameras are ready to go, and seriously, it's really comfortable. The only time I do not like using the dual straps with two cameras is when I'm low down to the ground a lot because a camera gets bumped around. Although, being pretty big right now, there's not a whole lot of crouching down going on.

{Photo taken from Teamworkphoto.com}

2. When editing, it can be really hard on your body/belly/butt to sit at a chair. I use an exercise ball. So much better!

3. How much to work when pregnant? I've realized that it is best to book about 25-50% of what you normally would. Baby and momma come first:) First trimester you often feel sick, second you could be dealing with some lovely sciatica, and third? Well, bring on the fatigue. You don't want to be working hard with a `baby brain' (you know, when you're really forgetful and your brain is functioning at about 75% or less):) Better to do less but put a more effort/energy into those sessions. Also, holding the equipment and getting into your regular positions (climbing, squatting etc) is a lot harder on your body and can leave you feeling sore for a whole lot longer. Take care of yourself!

Just my thoughts:) Now we'll have to wait a few more months and see what I have to say about how much to work with a newborn! I am taking one month off of everything and then in the second month I will be doing some editing (Gary will do 2 weddings with another second shooter) and then in month 3, I should be back at it. That's the plan, we'll see how it goes!

Equipment

I've been asked 3 times in the last 2 days what camera and lens I would recommend so I thought I would address it here. I'll be honest, we are super busy right now so this will be brief, AND, I may not be back for a while, AND, Gary buys all of our equipment so he would be the better person to ask...

Our Camera Equipment:

Canon 40D (Mine which I love because of the frames per second which is greater than Gary's and the large view screen)

Canon 5D (Gary's which he loves because it has a full frame sensor and it has a great auto focus)

Canon 24-70mm f/2.8 L series lens (wide angle..Gary and I both love this one as it is very versatile. It can be used in ANY situation)

Canon 50mm f/1.4 lens (prime lens...the lens I use most with my kids around the house. Great shots, small and light, affordable)

Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 L series lens (telephoto lens...I love the way the shots look but I find it a little impractical, large and heavy, Gary loves it and uses it a lot).

And then a few other `back up' lenses:)

So, what would I recommend for you?

Well, it totally depends on what you want to use it for and what you are willing to spend. It seems like most people are looking for a good camera for their every day lives. So, I only know Canon's so I will just give you my opinion. Again, just my opinion. Say you are willing to spend $500.00, this is what I would say to do:

1. BODY

Buy a used Canon 20D from someone you know/trust who has a gently used one. People are upgrading quickly so often they are not used for very long. You can get one off of craigslist for less than $300.00. Obviously if you are going this route, you need to know what questions to ask but I will say that we have bought the majority of our camera and lenses second hand and have never had a problem whatsoever.

2. LENSES

Okay, so again, this is if you only have $500.00 to spend and you've already spent $300.00 on the body. What would I recommend? Hmmm...I'd say that the two most useful lenses are our 50mm prime lens and the 24-70mm wide angle. So, you can get a cheaper prime lens, maybe a 50mm f/1.8. You could also get a third party lens like our Tamron 17-55mm lens. Not as good, but does the trick.

If you are wanting to get a good lens, and able to spend a little more, we really, really love the three that I listed at the top. The 70-200mm is difficult to use in tight spaces so it is the least practical (I think, Gary might disagree). It's good for wedding ceremonies, sports, or outdoor photography. A good lens makes such a huge difference.

So I know this was brief and not super informative but that's all I've got. I would highly recommend getting a nice camera and then, learning how to use it:)

Do you have a favourite lens (whether you own it or not)?