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Ian Roman's 10 must have bits of kit for sailing photography

by Ian Roman 27 Mar 2015 13:56 GMT 27 March 2015
Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing in Auckland © Ian Roman / www.ianroman.com

Ian Roman is one of the top sailing photographers who has travelled the world to bring sailing coverage to life with stunning action shots. Ian has covered the Olympics, America's Cup and the Volvo Ocean Race and is currently the official photographer for Abu Dhabi Ocean Racing. Here Ian tells us about his ten must-have bits of kit... apart from his cameras of course!

  1. Portable power packs with USB output - With so much equipment having internal batteries and dedicated charging cables these are an absolute must. I have three of various sizes and invariably have at least two with me at all times. bit.ly/USBChargers (Update: I now only have two portable power packs as one was confiscated by Chinese customs! See www.travelchinaguide.com/essential/civil-aviation)

  2. Black Rapid double camera strap - After years of running around with a camera hanging off each shoulder, hoping that neither slip off this simple addition ensures that they stay secure throughout the day -with the added benefit that when I go on the water I can unclip the cameras and put them straight in my Pelicase. See www.blackrapid.com/products/double

  3. Wacom tablet - Probably the single best addition to my editing hardware. Would you sign your name with a pen shaped like a bar of soap? -That pretty much describes most mouses! The stylus gives me precision when editing images and the buttons on the side of the tablet are programmable and can be customised for each software package. I use the small tablet, I've never felt I need bigger, and is easy to pack in hand luggage. See www.wacom.com

  4. Firewire card reader - My MacBook Pro doesn't have USB3, if it did I would be saying USB3 card reader, my point is have the fastest card reader possible otherwise you will waste a crazy amount of time waiting for your files to download.

  5. Unlocked Mobile Hotspot - Gets all your devices online simultaneously, make sure you are only paying local data charges. I use the Netgear AirCard AC785, put in the local sim card and it works, no faffing. See www.netgear.co.uk/home/products/mobile-broadband/hotspots/AC785.aspx

  6. Knee pads - When people see me for the first time wearing a pair of volleyball knee pads there is general mirth and merryment. If you are looking to get a low angle the chances are you're going to be on your knees. The knee pads mean I can still walk at the end of the day! See www.amazon.co.uk/dp/B000K337JI

  7. Fibreglass Pen - Also known as a scratch brush pen. Cleans up electrical contacts, especially useful to remove corrosion from a hot shoe.

  8. Pelicase - Absolutely the best protection for camera equipment while afloat (or anywhere else for that matter). I have a few, my favourite is the Pelicase 1650 - this monster will hold all your camera equipment, spare clothing and packed lunch. The only downside is the weight, without any gear it is a very solid 11kg. See www.pelicancases.com

  9. Hotel hand towels - I have yet to find a better way to dry my gear after the occasional wave. Always remember to return at the end of the day and replenish with a freshly laundered dry set! See www.fourseasons.com

  10. Noise cancelling headphones - Ideal for retreating into a private world, not only in the media centre, but from the moment I leave home! See www.bose.co.uk

www.ianroman.com

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