Hiking & Photography Gear I Can’t Live Without

[@Twobarpsi]

I would add a LED headlamp to your survival kit! Sometimes you get trapped after dark from shooting sunsets. Definitely worth packing!

[@iankellam6440]

A torch that is not your phone. Great vlog as always Adam

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha yes. I actually do carry a powerful head torch. I was gonna include it right at the end but got back to the car just before I needed to switch it on. wish now I’d included it in the safety equipment segment.

[@RickCarroll-Canada]

Hey Adam... My grandmother was Polish. She would be scrubbing floors at 5 am for rich people in Ottawa Canada. Polish people are some of the hardest and most ethical people on the planet. I am proud to be part Polish.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Absolutely. So proud.

[@MrJason8957]

Buying blister resistant socks changed my hiking experience a lot.

[@jimbruton9482]

Appreciate the comments on the Polish. My mom emigrated from Poland before the war broke out and she was the hardest worker I have seen and taught that trait to all her children. On your hiking gear is to bring what you need for the environment you're in. I live in a much warmer and humid climate and hydration is the key resource you need. Second is pest control.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Yeah. Pest control is an excellent shout.

[@scrumpyhead2000]

I love this guy. Been following him since the very beginning and owe him so much. His enthusiasm and knowledge has inspired me so often and helped me grow my own photography. That image at the end Adam! Surely an award winner!! Thank you.

[@TheMediaCorner]

Absolutely! You took the words right out of my mouth dude :)

[@scotterskine4745]

Good information here, Adam. My essential piece of gear is glucose tables as I have diabetes, and sometimes my blood sugar drops unexpectedly. This can happen even if one does not have diabetes. Taking 1 or 2 tablets will raise glucose levels faster than eating a candy or protein bar, as it is absorbed quickly. Bars have to be digested first before the glucose can be utilized, which takes too long. I will then supplement it with a Kind Bar once I feel the symptoms begin to abate. How will you know your glucose is low? Dizzy, sweating, shakiness, flushing, confusion, light headedness, irritability, feeling hangry. After about 10-15 minutes I'm back to normal and ready to continue. There is also glucose gel, which can serve the same purpose.

[@denniskitto8770]

Good rain gear works really good for the rain and also for high wind conditions and a old fashion Bic lighter and pitch from a tree guarantee to start a fire in most wet conditions like a rain storm the pitch will keep on burning even when everything is wet.

[@ianiles6430]

Definitely a bothy bag. I use a two-person Terra Nova bag. It'll cover the emergency bivi, as well as simply a means of getting out of wind and rain when stopping for a brew. It's also useful when changing lenses in rain or snow.

[@BikerBloke600]

I second the Bothy Bag. Military Vetran Mountain Leader 🇬🇧

[@Twobarpsi]

GREAT ADVICE on starting a trek on the cold side. You definitely warm up after the first ten minutes.

[@p0sher]

We seem to photograph the same areas, my father was also Polish and has the Monte Cassino medal. I always carry a disposable hair cap which unfurls in the worst weather to protect my camera and lense. Your suggestions are a great reminder for many who risk venturing outdoors in inclement weather when ill equiped! Well done!

[@terrymartin4489]

Thanks for the tips. I know that there are a few things you mentioned that I carry everywhere I go. As a former soldier, we had it drilled in our head that being prepared for anything and everything, would help us survive. The one thing you mentioned that I would alter was the shoe laces. I would recommend "550 cord" instead of shoe laces. You can make a bracelet type thing to attach to your bag to keep it available. It also works great as laces for your boots and it takes a lot to break. Awesome video and thanks for the inspiration.

[@michaelhale416]

Great tips Adam. There are a few items I will be adding to my bag. One other item I always have in my bag is a headlamp.

[@mikebartow9415]

Thanks. In the winter I wear two pairs of socks: one a liner sock and the other wool socks. For the same reason with the wool under layer. I was crossing a small iced over stream when my foot went through. I had water proof boots but I went in up to mid calf. I felt the water enter to my foot. It was initially cold but warmed quickly. Liner sock prevented chafing and the wool stayed warm the next 3 hours of the hike. As a matter of fact my feet were almost completely dry by the time I got home. Don’t forget a really essential piece is a nice thick hat.

[@bobtaylor364]

A few years ago I worked offshore, the operator, Shell, decided to upman the teams carrying out fabric maintenance, ie painting, etc. There was a skill shortage for these trades, so they mobilised teams of Polish painters. Their work ethic put the UK guys to shame and the quality of their work was equally as good as the guys who had been offshore for years. Obviously this didn't go down well with previous teams. On another topic, I was also a submariner. What boats was your brother on? What branch was he? I may have served with him, I was on S boats.

[@petemellows]

Layers are an essential part of daily life in Tasmania, so hiking is basically just adding an extra layer on top. I’ve been told that the main reason wool doesn’t smell is because the fibers aren’t smooth, which makes it more difficult for bacteria to attach. The good synthetics mimic this as best they can.

[@washingtonradio]

Hi Adam, the list of gear needed for hiking is a good list for all hikers not just photographers.

[@sigsegv111]

Ok, let me throw my 5 cents in - for me, if I had to rank my top 3 pieces of the most important photography gear for a landscape photography I would say that at 3rd place (bronze) is tripod .. yep, quality one, lightweight but reasonably tall and sturdy tripod is essential for me, at 2nd place (silver) is a backpack (or backpack system) because landscape photographers love (or hate - depends on from what angle you're looking on it) to carry around a loads of gear in varying conditions and at a 1st place (gold) is pair of solid boots :), because without boots you'll go nowhere ... surprise, no camera in the list ..

[@jocoma_photography]

power bank for my phone / camera, gloves, hat, and water is my safety gear. I do seascape photography so use spiked rock boots when walking over rock shelves or in waters edge.

[@amv000yt7]

What an amazing view at the 17:00 mark; absolutely stunning.

[@LancashireLadWalks]

what's the name of this location?? absolutely stunning view at the end Adam 🤩🙏🏻

[@johnpollock6996]

Excellent video Adam. Not living in an area with wide and beautiful vistas, my gaze is often toward the ground. I always carry a plastic sheet to lie on wet ground for ground level macro and I wear hard plastic shell knee pads for doing things knelt down, oh, and a tool to dissuade trouble makers from ruining my day, be they 2-legged, 4-legged, or no-leggged.

[@2DogAle]

Adam, thanks for sharing your tips and as always, lifting my spirits with your contagious enthusiasm 😊

[@dougmckillop9352]

Nicely paced video 👏 I would add to your list and perhaps even more basic and essential- Full set of Waterproofs, hat for sun protection in summer/warmth in winter and head torch (particularly useful when you end up walking the last bit on a road with traffic!).

[@chriscrowhurst]

That first image you captured of the tree was excellent! thank you for sharing your advice,

[@JohnPaul-ii]

Well covered Adam, couldn’t agree more on the dressing for the occasion. Warm & dry makes for a better time and better photography for sure. Thanks for sharing that beautiful English countryside. Stay warm 🇦🇺

[@mhaney1111]

Merino wool socks are a must have

[@KayGill]

Also a head torch for getting back down the hill once the sun’s gone down

[@martindavison4510]

Great video again Adam. Could have done with a few of those items when I slept in my car at Gribdale in the snow 😂. I was just at this location yesterday to try and capture an image of the 3 peaks at sunset but unfortunately there was no colour in the sky and it was very windy. I found a few nice compositions for when the heather comes out though so not a wasted trip. Like you say though, it's just nice to be out😊.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Exactly. And extra local knowledge in the bag for futures visits.

[@pauloamaral668]

Nice. I have too a safety light sitcks and a torche or headlamp.

[@andrewweathers2938]

The gloves are a difficult one. Shooting in places that are brutally cold, you might have to make the trade off on dexterity. I like that arc lighter. i also keep a flint lighter because I would be the one to not charge a USB device or check the butane in a zippo. The one thing I always forget is sunscreen, even when it's cold and especially when shooting around snow and in high altitudes.

[@richardlarsen5716]

I carry a second cheap pay as you go phone, loaded with OS maps. Always check its topped up and charged before I go.

[@marcinbogdali5348]

Finally You proved me right with my suspicions about roots. Happy to hear pride of it, even happier as Polish. Would absolutely love to see Your photo adventure from Tatra mountains 😊 All the best, carry on Adam, excellent channel in so many dimensions. P.S. Would change tea to coffee in the flask...

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha thanks. I am a serious coffee drinker. Sometimes on a hike though I prefer tea and find it a little more refreshing.

[@Brock_in_the_North]

I dunno. My RAB down jacket will deffo keep you warmer than a few tshirts and a hoody. I only need a base layer, base jacket and my coat and that pretty much does me. I also have a berghaus rain over coat because down is like a sponge so i take that just incase. I would prioritise a good coat over anything gear wise. Theres nothing worse than being cold

[@ContenderG]

Great vid, great advice 😊 Love the area from Guisborough woods, Roseberry Topping, inglby incline, moors, lordstones and beyond. Thanks Adam 👍🏻

[@chrispietryga8710]

Headtorch, maybe? Cheap and lightweight, just in case you hang around too much waiting for a sunset shot and have to get back in the dark. Great video.

[@petersmitham8273]

Polish builders are relentless!..🎉❤

[@JROwensPhotos]

What exactly is the knife situation here? I used to be very gung ho on having way too many knives when I lived in the States/Colonies, but when I moved here (UK), I read about the laws regarding any knife with a fixed or even locking blade, and pretty much quit carrying anything but my old Swiss Army Knife (30 years old now!). I know there's wording about allowing fixed/locking blades when justifiable, but beyond when bringing one home from the shops, I have absolutely no idea what might be considered justifiable.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Offensive weapons are illegal to carry in public in England and Wales i.e. weapons designed to inflict harm. Locking flick knives and switch blades are usually included in this. Otherwise there is the “points and blades” offence which can be any point or bladed article carried with the intention to inflict harm (eg “for my own protection”). I carry it in my bag for the intended purpose of camping/cooking/survival scenarios that can easily occur unplanned in these types of landscapes……therefore it is legal and a very sensible thing to have with you. I’m also not a fan of Swiss Army knives because I find them a bit dangerous for some tasks. I prefer a normal stronger blade for things like stripping bark, cutting food and other regular knife related tasks.

[@tegser]

Don’t forget your torch/head torch!!! 👍🏻

[@andytiplady]

You're Grandad probably fought with mine at Monte Casino, he fought through Africa with the 8th Army then onto Monte Casino. My other Grandad was a minor all through ww2. Couldn't agree more with layering and the wonders of merino, amazing stuff.

[@RickCarroll-Canada]

Awesome photo at the end.

[@paulbell9957]

Really enjoyed this Adam. Some very useful tips, and, as always beautiful images as a reward for your hard work. Great stuff 🙂👍

[@urbexphotographer]

Duct tape and a tube of super glue, essential if things break, I roll the duct tape so it takes less space up, great video btw

[@Firstmanphotography]

That's a good idea!

[@rayl801]

I can never understand not using lens hoods. I always use lens hoods, not only for reducing glare, but also for protecting the end glass of the lens in case of bumps or drops, and also from spray and dirt. Never go without one on, except for very windy conditions, or if I am using filters (polarizer or ND magnetic type). When not in use, but in storage in my bag I just attach the hood to the lens on backwards, not loose.

[@MWB_logic_reason_respect]

Tripod spikes! headtorch. Phone charger. Feetch packable collapsible wellies for wading into streams..tripod allen key multi tool. Water bottle. Flasks are too heavy. Shower caps for camera. Lens cloths. Apple. 😊

[@Firstmanphotography]

Collapsible wellies!! Very interesting.

[@johnchambers6272]

Inspiration plus, another great video Adam. Love the photo at the end. I wouldn't be without a Personal Locator Beacon, even for day walks. They are a backup for the phone in situations where the phone battery dies or in a area of no or poor cell phone reception.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Yep. I need to get one.

[@wglassiter2876]

Great video, thank you, I love your enthusiasm and fantastic photos. You gave me inspiration to get up off my FA and get out and find some light that deserves to be recorded. Cheers.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks. Really appreciate your time.

[@stevengroom6484]

Brilliant stuff. This is what everyone always forgets but can make a huge huge difference 👍🏻👍🏻👍🏻 one thing, what is your choice to carry all of this?

[@nevvanclarke9225]

80% of your body heat is lost through your feet head and hands. Yup... Gortex shoes are a must..thermal headware. And gloves. 80%. If those 3 areas are covered well you will stay relatively warm there's a lot of nerve endings in your toes fingers and actually your head as well. I carry a can of what is called magic spray in Australia it's actually for injuries but when you sprayed on it heats an area up I carry a little can of it in my bag for cold days and if you do get cold you can always spray that on an area and it instantly warms it up it is basically menthol.

[@247FNN]

I use a GPS tracker during my walk so I can find my car back;). Great advice for the spare laces!

[@nickyfoulkes8476]

I never leave without a head torch and spare batteries either. Grand job to boot!

[@stephendaviesphotos]

Great to meet you this evening at Celtic Manor, been a fan of your channel for ages 😀

[@Firstmanphotography]

Brilliant mate. Always get a thrill meeting a fellow pro. Please make me look good though. 😂

[@craigwilson1604]

i couldnt agree more with layers adam, theres nothing worse than been to hot or cold when your out taking photos.

[@sigsegv111]

Hi Adam ... I dare to disagree - merino actually doesn't dry quickly :P ... just to be precise, but it doesn't matter :) .. I use it too

[@jeffwiedner]

Great video. I'm curious how far you travel to your hikes [typically, on average]. There are a number of photographers who talk about car camping or popups. So I was curious whether you did that or do out-and-back day trips. It seems like you prefer catching the sunsets so starting a little later in the day might not be terrible.

[@Firstmanphotography]

I'm lucky where I live because I have five national parks less than 150 miles away. I mostly do out-and-back day trips because it suits my family/dad duties a bit better. I often think sunrise photography is better, but i prefer an experience like this where I can hike all day and the photography build and builds to the big finish.

[@simeonbennettphotography]

Excellent video Adam 👏love the sunset photo 👍superb colours 🌅

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thank you so much 😀

[@tmeeten3195]

Absolutely love your videos and adventures. What a cracking image to end with. Just stunning. Keep up the brilliant work.

[@scotty4418]

Lovely images this week Adam, especially that final one. Good range of items discussed which is important as complacency can bite you in the back side when you least expect it. Liked the gloves, looked really practical

[@robertleem5643]

Cracking video and sunset, many thanks for sharing. I totally agree when it comes to having the right clothing, I bought a pair of Scarpa walking boots and they are so comfy along with blister proof socks

[@lightsandtones]

Poop kit! The most important thing to have with you. Trowel, loo paper and a nappy sack for following leave no trace. I'm serious... :)

[@robertwhitemoto]

I think we have the very same tripod and ball head... and, I use to shoot the 5D mIV now on the R5. :)

[@DaveEP]

Awesome advice. thanks!

[@Richard-ht6fp]

Hi Adam, Followed you for years but never left a comment before. Absolutely smashing video, really compelling and positive. I liked the B roll from your archive interlaced with excellent piece to camera. When you put out videos like this, the quality of the final image is almost irelavant as the inspiration has already taken place and the message has been communicated. Keep up the good work, I can tell you are in a good place. Best wishes for 2024. p.s. my best gear - VIVO Tracker Forest Esc Mens Hiking Boots🦶

[@Firstmanphotography]

Thanks Richard. I am in a very good place creatively, although other areas of business are very tough.

[@NeilAlmond]

Adam, did your grandfather ever tell you about Corporal Wojtek? He was bear adopted by Polish troops that stormed Monti Cassino, true story.

[@cara1067]

A most enjoyable video. Really interesting and informative . Thank you very much

[@cillin4821]

didn't use a lens hood recently and the wind knocked over the camera on tripod....lets just say that my filter attachment no longer works.... USE A LENS HOOD.....might save your lens....

[@timrosenburgh8597]

Hi Adam, Another great video with great tips. In your kit you forgot a headtorch. Great image's as usual mate.

[@leemorrison2142]

Hi Adam , a very comprehensive video . One question what bag do you use for carrying your gear on these trips . Finding it difficult to find a bag to carry my photography gear and also personal gear

[@Firstmanphotography]

I use the Shimoda Design Action X70. It’s pretty much waterproof which makes it very useful.

[@leemorrison2142]

Thank you 👍

[@williammiller7328]

Fantastic video Adam. Really enjoyed it!

[@Twa-Dags]

Definitely layers, definitely a good quality hard shell jacket, your wallet may not thank you but your body, up on a mountain in the p**sing rain absolutely will! The best boots you can afford. Goretex over trousers, gaiters. And I always always carry a knife, usually a smallish (controversially) locking blade. In use, a locking blade is orders of magnitude safer than a non locking blade. Oh yeah, a hat!

[@ihabiano]

Another amazing video!

[@PhotographybyJeroen]

Ok so, Twitter to KZbin call out got me here. 👍

[@ericgosselin7173]

I did not quite understood the name of the app you use for the map. Can you write the name for me. Thank you for another great video.

[@Firstmanphotography]

Unfortunately I think it’s just UK based. It’s the Ordnance Survey app.

[@jarsok245]

Dziekuję, że mówisz tak miło o Polakach :-) pozdrawiam z Polski ..i gratuluje vlogów... sa bardzo ciekawe ..subskrybuje :-) pozdrawiam Jarek

[@edwardkurek5355]

Where do you put your camera gear?

[@unjarredoutdoors5513]

Great video! Leaving a like to support your channel!

[@DaveBerthiaume]

Tried searching for those gloves and can't find them anywhere. Think they may have been discontinued?

[@nigelwest3430]

Might be a daft question what with you being an ex copper but is that knife legal ? I always thought a fixed blade was a no no

[@Firstmanphotography]

Nope. It’s not an offensive weapon. It would count as “points and blades” if my intention was to be nefarious with it. Clearly it is not, therefore it is legal.

[@desgardner7169]

No need to tell us Brits about the Polish people we know how hard they work also my father was a serving soldier in WW11 he had many Polish friends. There's two things in life that you need and that's a good pair of shoes and a good bed, if you are not in one you are sure to be in the other! and if you are a photographer you need a reliable camera and a good lens! I agree with everything you say Adam and of course your pictures are just wonderful...Thank you...

[@petercollins7848]

Indeed! The Polish people are great! And they made a fantastic contribution in WW2. My dad was at Monte Casino too.

[@KayGill]

I’m with you on the whole ‘stay safe’ thing. Well said.. love your work. Also…. Take duct tape with you… it’s the future 😀

[@Firstmanphotography]

Ha ha. Good shout. I’m never far from a roll of duct tape. Although I haven’t taken one out in my camera bag up to now.

[@kid4eva94]

I think the biggest fear I've ever had with photography is being mugged, wrong place wrong time kinda thing

[@Firstmanphotography]

The fear of that happening is 100x greater than the realistic chance of it actually happening. It's a non-zero chance though, so we each have to manage that risk in our own way.

[@odinata]

Wearing layers while hiking?!? Who would of thunk it? Quit your day job and go full time sharing the gospel of this revolutionary new information!

[@Firstmanphotography]

It's ok mate, you'll be alright.

[@colintraveller]

Fingerless gloves waste of money ..