Breaking into photojournalism isn't easy. In fact, it's arguably more challenging now than ever. But having the right basic equipment will help you get started.
If you're seriously thinking about breaking into photojournalism, here are four words of warning: It won't be easy. There is a lot of competition out there, and fewer jobs to be had. Newspapers and magazines are cutting staff and the immensely talented, experienced shooters they've dropped are working their butts off to stay in the game.
Are you sure you want to go up against them?
On the other hand, the Internet has opened up new niches that might be so limited in scope that they fly under the radars of seasoned pros and just might help you get your foot in the door. Just don't expect to be able to pay your bills this way, at least at first. If you build a stunning portfolio of work (these days, very good isn't good enough) network persistently, and get your work noticed by the right people, you might have a fighting chance.
But you've got to start somewhere, and part of that is starting off with the right gear.
Here are a few tips to help you buy smart:
1. Invest in good glass. Get the best lenses you can afford. Ideally, a wide-angle to normal zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 wide aperture, such as the Nikon 17-35mm f/2.8D ED-IF AF-S and a tele zoom such as the Canon 70-200mm f/2.8 are virtual requirements. If you can't afford these, at least get a couple of fast prime lenses, like a Nikon 24mm f/2.8 or Canon 28mm f/1.8 wide angle, and a 180 or 200mm telephoto, plus a 50mm f/1.8 or f/1.4, and upgrade as the assignments start paying your bills.
2. Get two DSLR bodies. Don't get the top-end model. While full-frame is best, it costs a lot more; a high-end refurbished APS sensor DSLR (or even a used or refurbished full-frame) such as a Canon 7D or Nikon D300s can save you hundreds and give you outstanding low-light performance, which you'll need. As you move up and can afford it, you can upgrade to the latest, greatest DSLR bodies. Consider getting at least one body with HD Video, such as a Canon 5D Mark II or Nikon D700 and a jack for an off-camera microphone. This will give you a competitive edge.
3. Buy a good omnidirectional microphone (if you're going to shoot videos). Don't rely on the on-camera mic; the sound won't be broadcast quality. Get a good, rugged handheld microphone, with a wind sock, for interviews or to capture ambient sound. The Electro-Voice RE50 is a time-tested workhorse.
4. Bring a TTL strobe, either from the camera maker or an independent flash company. Just make sure you have the proper cables so the flash can communicate with your camera in full TTL mode. Get the most powerful unit you can afford, such as the Canon Speedlite 580EX II or Nikon SB-900. Even better: Make it a wireless set-up (no extra stuff needed with dedicated Nikon flash; Canon requires a wireless transmitter), or at least a TTL-friendly off-camera cord, so you can move the flash off the camera.
5. Use a flash modifier. At the very least, get a reflector so you can bounce the flash or a diffuser to widen the flash source for more flattering lighting. This will allow you to get more natural lighting. The LumiQuest ProMax Pocket Bouncer was one of the first popular light modifiers for hot-shoe flashes, and for many photojournalists, it's still one of the best.
6. Don't forget those extra, fully-charged batteries. “I ran out of juice” is a reputation killer when shooting spot news or are on deadline. Bring at least two back-ups for each camera and flash.
7. Ditto for memory cards. Don't be stingy—buy as many high-capacity cards as you can—these things are dirt cheap. Buy the fastest memory card you can afford, to take advantage of your camera's burst rate and data transfer capabilities. This very well might make the difference between getting the moment and missing it.
8. Invest in a laptop with a wireless 3G card. Mac or PC—whichever operating system you're comfortable with—as long as you can connect wirelessly and don't have to rely on the availability of wi-fi. The ability to file pictures from the field on a tight deadline is an absolute necessity. Get the data plan and go. (Also make sure to have Photoshop loaded so you can do any last-second adjustments.)
9. Pack sensor cleaners, microfiber cloth, etc. You may be in the field under less than ideal conditions, changing lenses. Be prepared to clean the lenses and sensor often. You don't want to make a busy picture editor deal with sensor dust. That's a automatic “delete” no matter how good the shot.
10. Throw in your smart phone, with all your picture editors' contact info on speed dial.
11. And a roll of gaffer tape, of course. Even if you don't think you'll need it, it's good to have around because eventually, you will.
12. Finally, get a good bag with room to grow. This will save you a few bucks in the long run. Make sure the bag has adjustable dividers so your gear will sit snugly.
There's a lot more to breaking into photojournalism than just having the right gear, and even if you do everything right there's no guarantees that you will succeed. But at least investing in appropriate equipment will put you on the right track. Good luck—you'll need it!
Top photo © Tina_Rencelj/iStockphoto.com
