How I Discovered Balance with Hiking & Photography

I have always struggled with finding balance with hiking and carrying camera gear for landscape and wildlife photography. Its a constant struggle. So I decide to go on 4 hikes, starting slow, and testing which gear I should bring on each hike, depending on distance and weight. #hiking #landscapephotography
Help support our channel by becoming a member of the 2nd breakfast club!:
/ @pereaphotography
Check out my etsy store for prints and other cool products designed by Mike!
letstacoboutna...
Mike's Website and Newsletter:
www.mikepereap...
Chris's Website:
www.chrisperea...
Follow us on IG:
/ chris__perea
/ mikepereaphotography
A GREAT way to help out our channel is by supporting our partners. These links below are affiliate links, and we do get a commission on sales through them.
Our Partners:
B&H Photo
www.bhphotovid...
Check out Audiio here:
audiio.com/par...
Use code "SAVE70" at checkout!
Lens Rentals
www.pntra.com/...
Use "Perea15" at checkout for 15% off!
Kase Filters
amzn.to/2Lwaedn
Use code "PereaK10" for 10% OFF
Mike's Gear
www.bhphotovid...
Chris's Gear
www.bhphotovid...
Some of the links mentioned are affiliate links.

[@GARY1951A]

Michael, what has happened to your channel-- I miss your videos and your expertise! Your channel is one of my favorites and I really do miss you guys! I hope all is well with you and Chris!

[@gkrausphoto]

Hope all is well with you both. Hope to see you both soon.😊

[@angelawilkins3624]

So glad to see Chris again❤️

[@nightscapeimages.richard]

Hey Mike, I really enjoyed this video a lot. Heaps of truth spoken here my friend. I've missed you both on the channel lately .. .Oh, and another happy birthday to Chris ..!!! Take care.

[@reesmarkham2140]

Rees Markham from Gold Canyon, Haven't heard from you guys for a long time. Hope you are doing well.hope to run into you on the train sometime .Aloha

[@familywithmelody]

What a wonderful and inspiring video! Your story of discovering balance through hiking and photography is so relatable. The combination of nature and capturing its beauty through your lens is truly magical. Your passion and love for these activities shines through in this video. Keep sharing your amazing journey, it's so motivating!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you so much! I appreciate the kind words 🙏🏼

[@trailmomadventures]

I feel that pain of balance! Being in the moment and enjoying both is an art! Thank you for sharing

[@ervinslens]

Narrated part is done brilliantly my friend. This whole upload is breathtaking, cinematography at its finest!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you so much!

[@jonglass]

That owl would have been the highlight of my hike! Heck, seeing any owl would be the highlight of any day for me! I love owls, and that was a beaut! Thanks for making these videos for us!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Jon! It was definitely the highlight for us! We love owls!

[@HusbandnWifeDuo]

Love from Ontario, Canada! We have watched several videos on our TV's youtube feature from you two husband and wife team and liked them immensely. We came here via our desktop to leave this comment. Both of us like your hiking and photography fusion. While we visit the lands you hike in vicariously through you, we are learning some basic photography techniques on the way. Thank you for sharing these vlogs. We love your style and pace.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you so much for the kind words!

[@QCshooter758]

Great video! The back side of Picketpost was pretty cool. I've hiked to the peak before but never around it, will have to add that to my list

[@deenugent473]

I also have the same interest as you Michael, hiking and landscape photography. Your videos are very informative and I love seeing nature. You've got a new subscriber here ☺👍

[@juanitakelly3082]

Excellent video analyzing your physical and mental limits so you can enjoy both the hiking and the photography. We should all pay attention to that. Loved all the cacti, and that owl - oh my! Lots of people were posting pictures of owls for superB OWL weekend! Yours fit right in!

[@PereaPhotography]

Haha thanks Juanita!

[@burt101welly6]

Your content is fantastic , I’m a beginner with one of my sons who wanted to do photography, I would really like to thank you guys for all the advice and experience you kindly share , it is truly appreciated ,

[@PereaPhotography]

I appreciate the kind words!

[@bradzaruba9686]

This is an amazing video with so many wonderful images. The owl was amazing as was the shot Chris, I mean you, spotted! Well done.

[@PereaPhotography]

Haha officially it’s mine!!! And that owl was the highlight!!

[@johnkaper1129]

Exceptional video, love the team work between the two of you. Beautiful scenery, you took great pictures and loved the pictures of the owl!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks so much John!!

[@jasonlacey5979]

Absolutely splendid you two, great message and video

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Jason!

[@scottandlindae3803]

You 2 are better together, excellent video.

[@bethmiklavcic180]

Thank you for sharing your rehab process. I'm a photographer based in Utah and I know how dangerous a place it can be. Glad you were able to get yourself out of the Uintas even while injured. Great video with a purpose and beautiful photography.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Beth!

[@lisawells8226]

Such a great video and reminder to sometimes just slow down and take it all in. Really enjoy your channel.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Lisa!

[@AlexBerger]

Oh man, had no idea on the big hike and injury. That sounds like it was scary as hell. What a way to bounce back from it and grow. Thanks for sharing!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks man! Definitely a scary situation for sure!

[@lanceyokota5031]

Mike, I can relate to your experience. Last year on a solo 5-day backpacking trip I sprang my ankle and hiked out very carefully 16 miles over the two remaining days in the Sierras. I've been backpacking for 49 years and never sprang an ankle before. However, not doing boot camp and kick boxing classes at the gym since the pandemic, my ankles got weak. Now, I do ankle strengthening exercises in addition to cycling and strength training. I have two recommendations, that will improve your balance between backpacking and photography. One, I take my wife's Sony APS-C camera with a 24-105 f/4 (full frame equivalent) and a 17 oz. Oben CTT-1000L Carbon Fiber Tabletop Tripod (Long). It's 28 inches high. The whole kit with L-bracket, case, extra battery and card is only 3.5 lbs. Two, I have lightweight backpacking equipment: 19 oz. tent, 22 oz sleeping bag, etc. No chair, no big tent with poles. Simplicity is part of the adventure.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Lance! I’ve been slowly acquiring lighter gear, and I think my next lens purchase will be a 24-120 f4. I think that’s a great range for just about anything I’d need. I appreciate the insight! Being injured in the backcountry is definitely a horrible feeling.

[@lynnecliffe3056]

What does a Cliffe take on a hike- a CLIF BAR of course. I didn't need one this morning because I walked the trails with the Perea twosome, while sitting at home. Yes 'balance' is a key word. So is respect and appreciation for the wonders of the natural environment, which is evident in your video presentations. I understand your enthusiasm for having spotted the Owl. I've experienced a number of Barred Owl encounters. On one occasion I enjoyed the privilege of spending some time capturing images of one preening herself comfortably in my presence, while her mate looked on from high above in an adjacent tree. My favourite image is one in which it was as though she unzipped a feather sweater and revealed her tawny red coloured chest beneath. May you continue to enjoy your privileged time together.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you so much Lynne! We’re happy you could join us!

[@dac9404]

I am very glad you are on the road to recovery. I am an old fart now with two worn out knees. I once did a lot of backpacking with multiple roles of film and a heavy lens with a Nikon FE2. Take it slow on the recovery. But be sure to have fun. I’m still enjoying snapping shots but now they are closer to the car. I really like your videos. Take care, but have fun too. John

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks John!

[@phynx2006]

That back lit image of the Cholla cactus 🌵looked cool and the moon🌙image is sweet. Love the hiking adventures, interesting stuff👍 Great to see Park Ranger Chris with Hooty the long eared owl 🤣 very educational guys 👍😍

[@PereaPhotography]

Haha Hooty!!

[@RichardBO9]

Way cool video. Great to see Chris out with you. I actually just changed to lighter gear so the hiking would be more enjoyable. You captured some great photos.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Richard! This video has been in the making for a few months. Definitely a struggle for me to find that balance.

[@kellyt105]

Great video! The owl was a great find. I also really liked that moon shot!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you so much Kelly! The owl was definitely the highlight!

[@johntravena119]

For me my camera is a reason to get outside. I hope to get some nice photos but I want to be aware and alive. Looking through my photos later if I have some nice photos and stories to share with my friends and family it’s a bonus.

[@terryschmidbauer1964]

Did you guys take the summer off because of the heat? I’m new the the Phoenix area and just getting ready to start hiking and photographing in the West Valley. I’ve been watching your videos to get a feel for the area and you two have been super helpful. Hope everything is OK with you guys and hope to see more of your informative and entertaining videos. Gotta go now, second breakfast is ready!

[@gregjepsen7155]

This 50-something tends to think he's still a kid. Got myself in trouble a few years ago and had to be hauled off of South Mountain!! The trailhead and western end of Ahwatukee looked so close, yet was so far!! Sitting here now thinking about backpacking/photography trips. Key is going to be remembering that preparation MUST be more important than youthful desire!! Limits can be pushed, but not until after the proper prep is put in!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Greg! Preparation is so important!

[@GARY1951A]

Great video and wonderful images!! Just one question: Why were you not using your gear head? After your video where you talked about it, I purchased one and I LOVE it!!!

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Gary! This has been a long term project and most of the filming was done back in November and December haha.

[@davidbailey1689]

Missing you guys! I am on vacation from the UK and passed Picacho today and wondered where you’ve got to.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks David! We’re still around. Just taking a break!

[@hairyheadphotography8106]

Fab video. We’re from the Uk and eat a Tunnocks caramel wafer bar nearly every night. Hope you enjoyed it 😊

[@PereaPhotography]

Thank you!! And yes we love Tunnocks!

[@dantheman1624]

I’ve had this discussion often…I now only take a one inch sensor camera in order to enjoy both…

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

Almost exactly two years ago, I almost wrecked my knee when hiking in deep snow with a heavy backpack. My foot got stuck, I fell over backwards and hyperflexed my knee. Three weeks later, unbelievably, I did it again on the same trail! It's taken all this time with regular training to get back to 90% and I still struggle on hills. I'm glad I can still work out, hike, and shoot at this stage of my life. Enjoy life, and watch out for cougars. Also, big cats. 😉 Did you have no audio backup in the receiver? Or did the transmitter fail?

[@PereaPhotography]

Haha always watch out for the cougars! And I try to use a lav mic hooked up to my DJI osmo. That is ok…usually. But when I forget it and try to use the osmo mic, the wind setting or mic setting switches as I’m walking and talking. It might just be a settings issue. But DJI and GoPro have always gave me audio issues. I try to just use my z6 and a Rode Mic, or I have a Sennheiser wireless lav mic for windy/loud situations that work fantastic. It’s the walking while talking setup that is driving me nuts. I can’t do that with the z6. The stabilization isn’t very good

[@JohnDrummondPhoto]

@@PereaPhotography I preordered the DJI Wireless when they first came out. It was backordered at B&H for months. The set finally arrived ... and the receiver was DOA. I returned it. The cold shoe mount looked really flimsy anyway. I just got the Rode Wireless II because I've lost audio with the original wireless and wanted backup. But in first use, forgot to set the receiver to mono. 🤦🏿‍♂️

[@PereaPhotography]

Yep I feel your pain. It’s been a years-long fight with both GoPro and DJI with audio.

[@davidsherman3462]

I wonder can you use a dual microphone setup with the gopro?

[@PereaPhotography]

Yeah I’m looking into some solutions for lightweight walking/talking setup. It might just be some kind of audio setting on my Osmo Pocket 2. GoPro might be an option, or just an external recorder and lav mic.

[@tomg6286]

Have you ventured to White Pocket, Arizona. If not its worth it,

[@bens9599]

In the next video, Mr. Perea explains why he’s switched to Micro Four-Thirds camera gear… 😂 (Keep up the great vids!)

[@PereaPhotography]

🤣🤣

[@michaelmanzonephotography]

Hope all is well. Have not seen any content from you recently

[@JeanYvesBonnet]

I hope evrything is okay with you guys since it's been almost a year since your last video. I hope you are doing great !

[@Enrique-the-photographer]

Que pasó con el canal, espero que los dos estén bien.

[@allanduff7234]

We miss your videos, I hope you are traveling on doing something fun.

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks Allan! We’re doing well. Just taking a break!

[@allanduff7234]

Mike when are you coming back to KZbin?

[@BrentHall]

Tripods are for timelapses and long exposures only...the rest of the time, they are the devil! 😆😈😂

[@PereaPhotography]

🤣 a necessary evil!

[@davidmaltby2065]

Awesome video as usual. Check out an NZ Photographer, William Patino. He exclusively shoots hand held. Has opened my eyes to what can be done without a tripod

[@PereaPhotography]

I’ll check him out! Thanks David 🙏🏼

[@juanbon5996]

Hey Mike, haven't seen any content from you in a while. Are you still around?

[@heinrichkessler7655]

Hallo ihr 2 Warum gibt es nichts Neues von euch 2. Ich wünsche euch alles Gute und einen schönen Gruss aus der Schweiz.Tschau

[@brucedixon5185]

Love the Superstitions.

[@PereaPhotography]

Me too. Love my home! Thanks for watching Bruce!

[@FitzMichael]

Dude, what happened to you man? It’s been a year. Hope you’re good.

[@jimgsewell]

When you say organ pipe, it sure sounds like you are saying Oregon pipe. I started looking on the map for a day trip.

[@PereaPhotography]

🤣

[@birdhouse3840]

What happened to you guys. Its been 4 months since you posted. I hope everything is OK!!!

[@PereaPhotography]

Doing great! Just taking a break for a bit.

[@birdhouse3840]

enjoy

[@nsbhagwat]

You guys haven't posted a video for a year, hope everything's fine.

[@VangelisMatosMedina]

Unfortunately you did not realize that you need to downgrade your camera equipment. Just go for any aps-c with something like 55-250ish.

[@PereaPhotography]

Yep I think that’s solid advice. Thanks for watching!

[@VangelisMatosMedina]

@@PereaPhotography Now that i am on the computer, i can give some better context. I am a landscape photographer, felt in love with trekking, but my full frame Canon DSLR + lenses was not weight friendly. Long story short, Canon M6 mark II, ef-s 10-18, ef-m 22mm and ef-s 55-250. Or sometimes just M50 + ef-s 18-135. FF gear only on short hikes or when travelling primary with my car.

[@eddiegutierrezjr6226]

I’ve really been into the videos you’ve been making 🤌🏽

[@PereaPhotography]

Thanks so much man!! 👊🏼