17 September 2008
This is How I Roll - TWIP
Posted by
Scott under:
Articles
Photo by Marc Katz
Several of our readers sent e-mail asking more detailed questions about the gear that I took with me on my recent expedition to photograph bears on the Katmai Coast in Alaska. In addition to the pictures I’ve posted on Flickr and the video I’ll be posting today, I made this illustration in Photoshop, based on a photo made of me in action by Marc Katz. Note the bear on the far top right edge of the frame. I didn’t see him, but was focused on one much closer when Marc took this image.
Click on the photo to see a larger, more detailed version.
15 Comments so far...
Joe Rodricks Says:
17 September 2008 at 8:11 am.
That’s a great photo -Scott “Badass” Bourne- I wouldn’t mess with ya.
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Kent Goldings Says:
17 September 2008 at 8:28 am.
Nice photo. I strongly considered purchasing a TWIP ball-cap. Then I remembered how much I hate actually photography while wearing one. I much prefer a soft-brimmed military style boonie-hat and or even a fishing hat. These are more convenient and offer better protection from the sun and the rain. And, I think that hat would have gone smashingly well with your hip-waders. Please consider this suggestion the next time you’re designing TWIP apparel. Anyhow, you look like a superhero.
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Scott Says:
17 September 2008 at 8:41 am.
@Kent I use the bill end of the ball cap when it’s raining to shield the eyepiece. But to each his own. As to your superhero comment - all I can say is LOL!
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Kent Goldings Says:
17 September 2008 at 8:44 am.
I see, I guess I just don’t photograph enough in the rain. 
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John Hall Says:
17 September 2008 at 9:55 am.
Great to see this. Thanks Scott. How are the waders for actually walking/hiking in, I would think with all that gear you would not want to go that far but know it is required sometimes.
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Matthew Rogers Says:
17 September 2008 at 9:57 am.
Cool…always love to see how a real pro uses his gear!
I have a question: why is having your arm on top the proper long lens technique?
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JVL Says:
17 September 2008 at 10:04 am.
I think an essential piece of equipment missing here is a porter. I wish I had one when I hiked solo through Iceland (shoulda brought less photo gear) , and I’m sure one came in handy for you, Scott, while in the field with bags upon bags…
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Scott Says:
17 September 2008 at 10:06 am.
@John - these were super comfortable waders - that said, you’re usually happy to take them off at the end of the day. The secret is to buy those gel inserts!
@Matthew - at the longer focal lengths, every vibration is magnified causing less than sharp focus. If you rest your arm or hand on top of or cradle the lens beneath, plus press your face to the back of the camera, you reduce these vibrations - which causes sharper images.
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John Hall Says:
17 September 2008 at 10:34 am.
@Scott great I never even thought of buying the gel inserts for them which is amazing since I immediately replace the insoles on running shoes I buy.
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Martin Says:
17 September 2008 at 4:25 pm.
Awesome photo! Being obsessively compulsive, I must point out that your arm is “lying” across the lens, not “laying.” :-))
Every post is practical and useful. Thanks.
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Tim Says:
18 September 2008 at 3:29 pm.
I would think laying your arm across the lens could add vibration?!
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Scott Says:
18 September 2008 at 4:34 pm.
@Tim Sorry but if that’s what you think - you think wrong - try it out for yourself. The arm adds stability.
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mark Says:
19 September 2008 at 3:05 pm.
wow Scott is well tooled up with that kit He looks better equipped than James Bond
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Maki Says:
20 September 2008 at 4:25 pm.
Scott, really funny to see that bright white hat among all the camouflage gear! maybe TWIP caps should come in camo too…
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Scott Says:
20 September 2008 at 5:06 pm.
@Maki again - wasn’t trying to hide. Bears knew I was there. Just happened to have a bunch of camo gear. And the hat is actually tan - not bright white. Just an FYI. But thanks.
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