Camera Wishlist

Published by Nick Ladd | Filed under Gear & Other Gadgets, Nikon D200

I’m a gadget freak (as I’m sure most photographers are), but unfortunately do not have the bankroll nor credit limit (joke) to support my gadget habit. That being said, I can always dream and create a list (another of my obsessions). So here it is, my list wishlist of good stuff that someday I might have a shot at owning (in order of personal importance):

Camera Gear Wishlist:

1. Tripod
   Heavy duty and preferably with a level and ball head. I currently own a pathetic plastic piece of crap that I don’t trust to hold my new D200. Haven’t really started researching the various makes and models, but this is definitely high on my list of ‘to-dos’. Probably will buy one with carbon fiber legs to make it lighter to travel with. Someday, might want a monopod too…we’ll have to see.
2. Polarizing Filter
   I’m tired of seeing washed out over exposed skies in my photos. It would also be nice to cut through reflections when they are not wanted. Any good recommendations for 72mm polarizing filters? I’ve heard good things about Hoya multicoated filters.
3. Neutral Density Filter
   Would be nice for situations calling for a slower shutter speed than the lighting conditions would normally allow. Any ideas about brands?
4. Remote Shutter Release
   Once I get my tripod, I’d like to buy Nikon’s MC-36 for shooting in low light conditions. The auto timer works well, but is a bit annoying. Would also be fun for doing some extremely low light timed exposures.
5. 1.4x Teleconverter
   Would be nice to give my 18-200mm f3.5-5.6 a little more ‘reach’ when needed. Only concern would be losing a stop, possibly slower autofocusing, and maybe some image quality loss. Anybody have any experience with the Nikon TC-14E II (1.4x) AF-S, AF-I Teleconverter?
6. Telephoto Lens
   I’ve been looking at the 300mm f/4D ED-IF AF-S Nikkor lens specifically for use in sports photography. This lens would allow me to speed up my shutter (larger aperture than my 18-200mm lens) for better frozen action shots while limiting background distractions.
7. Macro Lens
   The focal length on my 18-200mm general lens leaves a little to be desired when shooting insects, flowers, and other small things up close. My old Nikon Coolpix 4500 did a great job with macro shots, and I’d like to make my D200 do the same.
8. Flash Unit
   Looking for recommendations I tend to get by with the on-board speedlight, especially since I don’t like to shoot with flash.
9. Wide Angle Lens
   For interior architectural shots and wide landscapes. Pretty low on my priorities since I seem to get by with my 18-200mm lens when wider angles are needed.
10. GPS Unit Cable
    Not really needed, but would be a fun toy…especially considering that I already own a GPS.

Books:

1. National Geographic Photography Field Guide

Any other suggestions? I’ll have to keep this list up-to-date as items get purchased