My Go-To Gear for Outdoor Photography: Stay Comfortable, Shoot Better
hI ALL, SOMETHING DIFFERENT THIS TIME. i WANT TO SHARE WITH YOU THE GO-TO GEAR I HAVE THAT HELPS ME WITH MY LANDSCAPE PHOTOGRAPHY.
AS MOST OF YOU WOULD KNOW, There’s nothing worse than being out in the wild, trying to capture the perfect shot, and suddenly realising you’re freezing, soaked, or downright miserable. Good outdoor photography isn’t just about having the right camera gear—it’s also about wearing the right clothing and using high-quality accessories. If you’re uncomfortable, you’ll rush your shots, skip golden opportunities, or worse, pack up early. Over the years, I’ve dialled in my go-to outdoor photography gear to keep me warm, dry, and ready to shoot in any conditions. Whether you're braving the elements in Tasmania, trekking through the Blue Mountains, or chasing light on the Great Ocean Road, this is the kit that never lets me down.
Layering Like a Pro: Stay Warm and Comfortable in Any Climate
Layering is the secret to staying comfortable when photographing outdoors. Weather conditions can shift in an instant, and you need to be able to adapt without missing a shot. Whether you're capturing the rugged beauty of the Snowy Mountains or shooting astrophotography in the Outback, layering with high-quality materials is a game-changer.
Insulated Down Jacket – A must-have for cold-weather photography. Lightweight, super warm, and packs down small in my camera bag. Ideal for those freezing sunrise shoots in alpine regions or chilly coastal evenings.
Merino Wool & Fleece Layers – Merino wool is one of the best fabrics for outdoor photography clothing. It’s warm, breathable, and naturally odour-resistant, which is perfect for multi-day photography trips. Fleece mid-layers provide insulation without the bulk, keeping me mobile while setting up shots.
Rain Jacket & Rain Pants – Because Mother Nature doesn’t care about your perfect shot. A high-quality waterproof shell is essential for staying dry when the heavens open up. If you’re photographing waterfalls in New Zealand or storms rolling in over the Twelve Apostles, you’ll be glad you packed them.
Footwear for Any Terrain: Keep Your Feet Dry and Supported
Photographers go where the shot takes them—sometimes that means trudging through mud, wading through streams, or hiking rugged trails in national parks. The right footwear makes all the difference between an enjoyable shoot and a painful trek.
Hiking Boots – Durable, waterproof, and with good ankle support. Essential for those long treks to the best vantage points in remote landscapes. When you’re carrying a heavy camera backpack, good boots prevent fatigue and injuries.
Water Shoes – When the best shot means getting your feet wet, water shoes are a lifesaver. Whether you're crossing rivers in the Kimberley or wading through icy creeks in Fiordland, they drain quickly and keep me stable on slippery rocks.
OTEX: My Solution to a Photographer’s Problem
I started OTEX because I got sick of not being able to find high-quality, purpose-built photography accessories for the outdoors. I needed gloves that kept my hands warm but still let me control my camera. I wanted gear that was durable, weatherproof, and designed with photographers in mind. So, I made it happen. OTEX outdoor photography accessories are built to handle the toughest conditions, making them an essential addition to any landscape photographer’s kit.
OTEX XT-801 Photography Gloves – Warm, grippy, and touchscreen-compatible. No more frozen fingers or fumbling with camera buttons. Whether you're shooting snowy peaks in New Zealand or crisp winter mornings in Victoria, these gloves are a game-changer.
OTEX HYDROTRED Waterproof Socks – Perfect for those times when you have to step into water but don’t want soaked, freezing feet. Ideal for wetland photography, coastal shoots, or any adventure where dry feet mean better focus.
OTEX Neo Lens Cloth – Because a smudged lens ruins the best shot, and this one stays dry and clean no matter the conditions. Dust, rain, and fingerprints are no match for it—perfect for keeping your glass spotless in unpredictable environments.
OTEX Classic Beanie – When the temperature drops, keeping your head warm is just as important as your hands. This beanie is comfortable, insulated, HAS A LARGE CLASSIC CUFF and IS designed for outdoor photographers who need warmth without bulk.
OTEX Pocket Hand Warmers – When shooting in freezing conditions, these pocket-sized warmers are a lifesaver. Slip them into your gloves or pockets for extra warmth, so you can stay out longer and focus on getting the perfect shot.
Other Essential Outdoor Photography Gear
Beyond clothing and footwear, there are a few other must-have items that help me stay prepared and capture the best images:
Camera Rain Cover – Protects my camera from unexpected downpours, sea spray, and dust storms.
High-Capacity Memory Cards – Nothing’s worse than running out of storage in the middle of a perfect shoot.
Spare Batteries – Cold weather drains batteries fast, so I always carry extras in an insulated pocket.
Lightweight Tripod – A sturdy but portable tripod is key for sharp images, especially in low light or long exposure photography.
Final Thoughts: Be Ready for Anything
When you’re shooting outdoors, your gear isn’t just about your camera—it’s about staying comfortable, prepared, and focused so you can capture the best images possible. Invest in high-quality outdoor clothing, waterproof photography accessories, and durable footwear, and your photography will thank you. Whether you're a landscape photographer, travel photographer, or adventure seeker, having the right gear means you’ll never miss a shot due to the elements.
Got a favourite piece of outdoor photography gear? Let me know in the comments—I’m always looking for new additions to my kit! And if you’re after the best gloves, waterproof socks, and camera accessories designed specifically for photographers, check out OTEX—you won’t regret it!