Spring is an exciting time for wildlife photographers in the Greater Yellowstone Ecosystem. Bears and other animals reemerge, and a variety of weather conditions from spring snowstorms to bluebird sunny days along with longer days presents plenty of opportunities for photographers. But this range of conditions and changing terrain can also make for more gear considerations. In this post, we break down top recommendations for what to pack for gear and clothing for spring photography travel to the Yellowstone and Grand Teton National Park regions.
Photography Gear
All photographers have their own approach to what and how they generally shoot. There are many cameras and lenses out there, and there is much to consider. The following recommendations align with commonly preferred approaches to wildlife photography in Yellowstone and what I generally consider in the region in the spring.
Camera Bodies
For wildlife photography in Yellowstone, I shoot with a Sony A1. Sony now makes an A1 II that offers some new features, but I like the A1 (and would like the A1 II) because it’s a full-frame, mirrorless, high megapixel, fast sports body that checks every box for me for wildlife photography. The fast readout speeds are a key reason why I opt for the A1 over other, newer high megapixel cameras, even those with fast frame rates. A key reason I want a higher MP body is for the ability to crop while maintaining good resolution. There are days that the animals are simply so far that the composition I might want can only be achieved with significant cropping. I also like avoiding a teleconverter when possible, and the ability to crop is a way to cut down on that additional gear and the increased aperture that comes with TCs. Additionally, I like photographing individual aspects of animals such the face of a bear. A good telephoto lens and a high MP camera can go a long way. Because it’s good to have a second body on hand, I also bring a Sony A7R5 and/or a Sony A7 IV. For me, the A7R5 is slower than the A1 but offers more megapixels. The A7 IV offers the fewest number of megapixels but is excellent at low light. Sony now has an upgraded A7RVI that offers higher megapixels and more speed.
For Nikon users, comparable bodies would be the Nikon Z8 (which is a 45.7MP camera that can reach up to 20 frames per second raw). The Nikon Z6 III offers 24.5 MP and up to 20fps raw).
And while there are many more outstanding cameras to consider, we’ll keep this list to the big three (Sony, Nikon, Canon) and end with Canon. The Canon R5 and R5 II are phenomenal fast, high MP mirrorless bodies that best compare to the Sony A1 and Nikon Z8. The Canon R1 is Canon’s flagship camera and is a great option (with fewer MPs but higher frame rate and other features), and the like with Sony and Nikon, there are a variety of other options that would also make for great cameras for photographing wildlife.
Lenses
Sony
A lens with good reach goes a long way with photographing wildlife, especially for animals like bears that require more distance from the subject for safety reasons. For me, prior to getting a Sony 600mm f/4, the Sony FE 200-600mm f/5.6-6.3 G lens was the lens for me in the Park. That range of 200-600 can cover a wide variety of situations, and in many instances, this lens is less restrictive than a 600. Sometimes with the 600, animals are closer or move closer, and I am stuck at 600. The 600 can even be too much for photographing many landscapes and mountain peaks. Another favorite lens for many is a 400mm f/2.8; however for my needs and for travel, I use a 300mm f/2.8. This is a great lens that costs far less than a 400mm and can be well-paired with a 1.4x or 2x teleconverter. Note: Be sure to have a good lens foot for these larger lenses.
In addition to these long lenses, I like to be prepared for scenarios in which the animals are farther away or even not present at all. Days of good shooting can be lost if only in pursuit of closer shots of animals. A 16-35mm f/2.8 lens can cover a variety of needs, especially with lanscape photography, and a 24-70mm f2.8 can be great to have along as well. And if those bigger lenses above are too big, a 70-200mm f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) is another excellent option.
Nikon
For Nikon users, the NIKKOR Z 180-600mm f/5.6-6.3 lens can cover a wide range of focal lengths and be great as a (nearly) all-purpose lens for wildlife photography at a moderate price. The NIKKOR Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S lens is an impressive lens that includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter that enables photographers to easily switch to a 800mm f5.6 — a very useful feature. Similarly, the NIKKOR Z 400mm f/2.8 TC VR S lens offers a lower aperture than the 600mm but also includes a built-in 1.4x teleconverter to easily switch this lens to a 560mm f/4. Again, it is important to have a lens foot for these lenses.
Also for consideration: A NIKKOR Z 24-70mm f/2.8 and a NIKKOR Z 70-200 f/2.8 (especially with a teleconverter) can be excellent lenses for landscape and wildlife photography.
Canon
The Canon RF 200-800mm f/6.3-9 lens covers a broad range of focal lengths and is moderately priced though it doesn’t have some of those lower apertures that can be great for speed and blurring backgrounds. Canon also offers an RF 100-500mm f/4.5-7.1 that has lower f-stops. For those looking to go (very) long, Canon has an RF 800mm f/5.6 lens, and for a little less reach, Canon has an RF 400mm f/2.8 and an RF 600mm f/4 lens that are ideal for wildlife photography — especially for bears, wolves, and other animals that demand keeping some distance.
As for smaller lenses, Canon’s RF 15-35mm f/2.8, the 24-70mm f/2.8, and their 70-200mm f/2.8 lenses are great to have.
Clothing, Apparel, Boots, Baselayers
Planning for spring weather in the Northern Rockies can mean planning for extremes. Heat waves can precede blizzards, and calm and pleasant days can suddenly bring torrential rains. For the variety of weather one might encounter in the Rockies in spring, careful consideration of apparel should come into play.
See some favorite apparel items for spring in the Northern Rockies below.
Gloves
In general, gloves for me get in the way of being able to use my hands as quickly as I can when operating a camera. However, spring mornings and evenings tend to be cold or at least cool. And with spring snow, gloves can be essential and even important for safety. Gloves from The Heat Company have been a game changer for me, and I couldn’t be more pleased, especially as they are designed for functionality for photographers. My go-to gloves are below.
The Heat Company Merino Liner Pro gloves are great for when the temperatures get a bit chilly but not too frigid. When cold temperatures restrict finger and hand functionality or impact stamina, these gloves are the first to go on. For that first layer, the Merino Liner Pro gloves are a warm liner glove with an outstanding fit with great grip and the ability to use with camera touchscreens. These gloves have a pocket for handwarmers, and they are also very breathable, which is essential for situations in which hands sweat, and you need to keep from having cold, wet hands and gloves.
For colder days, rain, and snow, I like to have shells from the Heat Company available to go on over the liners. These liners work perfectly with The Heat Company’s Shell — a windproof and water repellent mitten that has a great grip and magnets for holing the pull-back coverings for the thumbs and fingers. I’ve worn these in extreme conditions and have found them invaluable.
Baselayers
Thoughtful layering is important in many regions of the world and especially so in the Rockies where temperatures can change and vary so much throughout a day. For baselayers, you will likely notice a preference for Patagonia on this end, but several other companies offer items that are comparable to each of what is named below.
First, please know that early spring can deliver some of the biggest snowstorms of the year. It can also be quite cold. Winter weather conditions should be considered. To see some of what’s recommended for winter weather, please visit our winter gear recommendations article.
For cooler weather, the Patagonia R1 Fleece Pullover Hoody and Patagonia Capilene Thermal Hoody are warmer technical tops that are breathable and designed for function. I will wear these over the Capilene Cool Daily Hoody as I like having two hood weight options between two tops at one time. When cold weather is going to be a factor, the Patagonia R2 TechFace Pullover is an excellent piece.
When the weather is a bit warmer, the Patagonia Capilene Cool Daily Hoody is a favorite. This long-sleeved hoody is so lightweight, I generally wear this instead of a t-shirt. It is not only extremely light, it dries quickly, is very breathable, and I like having my arms, head, and neck covered at times, especially when there is intense sun.
For baselayer bottoms, I like the Patagonia Capilene Midweight Bottoms for cool days and the Patagonia Capilene Thermal Weight Bottoms for cold days.
For keeping covered and even keeping warm, neck gaiters such as the Patagonia R1 Daily Neck Gaiter or the Patagonia Micro D Gaiter are great options. For warmer conditions, consider the Patagonia Sun Mask or a Buff.
Socks
My preference for socks is midweight ski and snowboard socks. Though I have heavier and thicker socks, I’ve never felt the need to go heavier, and I want to avoid sweating as much as possible. I like all of the compression ski socks from Black Diamond. The differences largely come down to weight and warmth. The Smartwool Merino Wool Ski Socks are also a great option. Ski socks generally aren’t too hot on cool days, and as the temperatures change throughout the day as they generally do in the Rocky Mountains, I will lower and raise the socks to maintain just the right amount of warmth. When it’s colder, I rely more on warmer baselayer pants and boots to deal with the cold rather than thicker socks, though I will wear ski socks as long as it isn’t too hot to do so.
Headwear
It seems like most outdoors apparel companies make good beanies. But a favorite can be hard to find and preferences are subjective. Beanies are recommended for colder days as regulating head temperatures can have a big impact on how warm and cold you are throughout a day. You can also wear a beanie over a cap. Spring days are longer, the sun can burn, and there is often glare off of snow, rivers, and more, so a cap with a brim can be useful, and you can shed the beanie and just go with the cap as it warms up during the day.
Jackets
In mountain ranges all over the world, the Patagonia Nano Puff seems to be an overwhelming favorite. Like many outdoors enthusiasts, the Patagonia Nano Puff Hoody might be my most frequently worn jacket, and I love that this jacket is windproof, water-resistant, and very lightweight and packable. It almost has no impact on my load when traveling or in the field, so it often comes with me. And when it gets a bit colder, I do like this jacket under a heavier coat. Note: These jackets will take on some water, but they aren’t waterproof. It’s always good to have a waterproof jacket.
One downside to the Patagonia Nano Puff is the lack of stretch. If you need some stretch in the material to support mobility, Black Diamond Access jackets are outstanding.
Frigid cold and snow happens in the spring. On most cold days, I wear the Patagonia Down Sweater Hoody, which is fairly lightweight, packable, windproof, and water resistant. For a little more durability, the Patagonia Hi-Loft Nano Puff Hoody is excellent. For a much heavier but waterproof option, I go with the Patagonia Jackson Glacier Jacket. If it’s not too frigid but I want to stay dry, a good waterproof ski shell over good baselayers might work just fine.
Pants
I have yet to find the perfect all-around spring pants. Presently I generally go with the Patagonia Alpine Guide Pants, which are windproof, water resistant, and comfortable. I do wish they had a back pocket. Unfortunately, in a hard rain, these pants seem to get wet and stay wet.
It can be pretty cold in early spring, and there is often snow on the ground. In that case, I would recommend ski pants. Current favorites are the Patagonia Storm Shift Pants, the Patagonia Powder Town Pants, and the Freedom Pants from The North Face. All of these options should be worn with baselayer pants. And don’t forget a good belt.
Lastly, and this might seem like it’s coming out of left field, but wading pants designed for fishing can be incredibly useful in the spring. The Patagonia Swiftcurrent Traverse Wading Pants allow me to do everything from trek through snow to cross creeks and rivers. They are entirely waterproof and not too uncomfortable. Baselayers and ski socks underneath are very important. And they should be paired with a wading boot to go over the neoprene booties.
Boots and Shoes
Boots are subjective. I recommend going tall and waterproof with an athletic fit. A good sole and grip is essential. The SOREL Caribou waterproof boots are what I wear throughout the winter or in the spring if it snows. Generally, the taller SOREL BUXTON boots are what I wear in the spring. If I’m going to hike more, I go with the La Sportiva TX Hike Mid GTX boots. If it’s late spring and you aren’t concerned about getting wet above the ankles, the La Sportiva Akyra II shoes are outstanding.
Miscellaneous Gear
Tripods
There are many different tripods to fit a variety of needs for photographers. For wildlife photography, a tripod that is light enough to not weigh you down when you are on the move and is strong enough to hold heavy lenses is what you’ll need to look for. The Sirui W-2204 Waterproof Carbon Fiber Tripod and the Sirui W-2004 Waterproof Aluminum Alloy Tripod are excellent. The carbon fiber option is lighter but a little more expensive.
Gimbal
There are many great gimbals out there now. For wildlife photography, I like the Wimberley WH-200 Gimbal Tripod Head II with Quick Release Base. It is strong, easy to use, and has a nice smooth motion when set properly. It is metal, and it can be very cold to touch when it’s frigid outside. Tape or another wrap of some kind could help with that.
Sunglasses
Good, quality polarized sunglasses can really help you see and reduce eye fatigue. Smith and Costa are among a number of top brands. The Smith Embark and Smith Venture sunglasses offer side shields that block light from the side, which can be very useful, especially if there is glare from snow or from water.
Backpacks and Packs
For carrying gear in the field, I highly recommend f-stop backpacks. The Mountain Series packs have gone with me to mountain shoots all over the world, and it’s very rare that I’m shooting in the mountains without one of these packs. I currently use the f-stop ANJA 37L DuraDiamond, the TILOPA 50L DuraDiamond, and the SHINN 80L DuraDiamond backpacks. When I am solo and on most trips, I use the TILOPA. If I am guiding or need more than one big lens with me, I go with the SHINN. I have put these packs through a lot, and they are durable and tough while remarkably comfortable to wear with a lot of weight inside for hours and hours on end. These packs have an endless number of features, but their comfort and ability to withstand weather and more are at the top of my list of reasons to go with one (or all) of these packs. Note: I am an ambassador for f-stop, but I was solely using their backpacks for years prior to coming onto the team.
Drinkwear
One of the most important items you can have with you in the mountains is water. Camelbaks are easy and convenient and can often be incorporated into your pack. A Katadyn BeFree filter packs easy and can get you water in a pinch. The YETI Yonder bottles are fairly lightweight and are generally in a side pocket of my pack. The YETI Rambler bottles are somewhat heavy, but they can keep your coffee warm.
Trekking Poles
As photographers, and especially as wilderness photographers, we carry heavy loads on uneven terrain, and we frequently need to hike to get closer to our subject. Trekking poles are great for keeping balance and hopefully decreasing fatigue. The Black Diamond Trail Cork Trekking Poles are excellent. The Black Diamond Alpine Carbon Cork Trekking Poles are a bit lighter but also nearly twice the price.
Headlamp
I won’t go many places without a headlamp. They are in my packs, glove box, camera kit, and more. For photographers, they care useful for everything from sorting through gear at low light to being a light source when hiking. It’s pretty tough to gear up in the dark or get setup for night sky photography without them. My favorite headlamp is the Fenix HM50R. This headlamp offers good brightness and distance and a rechargeable battery. There are other features, but the rechargeable battery is what makes this the preferred lamp, especially for travel or multiple days in the outdoors. The Black Diamond Storm 500-R Rechargeable Headlamp is also a good option, and Black Diamond now makes numerous good rechargeable options.
Multi-tool
The Leatherman Skeletool has come through when things go wrong. Good for gear fixes. They are a bit heavy, but when they are needed, I am grateful to have one.
Other
For Yellowstone and bear country in general, you’ll need bear spray. You can’t fly with it, but many stores around the park carry it. You can also order it and have it waiting for you at your destination.
When photographing wildlife, and especially with big files from high megapixel cameras, it is easy to blow through batteries and SD cards. Pack extra batteries and cards, and be certain your cards are fast enough to take on high burst rate shooting sessions. A good card reader saves a lot of time after the shoot.
You can never have enough lens wipes, and a lens cover can be key in a downpour or snowstorm. Also, with spring bringing snow and unpredictable rain showers, a good lens cover can be very valuable. I’ve used Sony and AquaTech but do not have an overall preference. Do remember it will need to be large enough to cover long wildlife lenses.
Lastly, always consider safety and safety communications. A Garmin inReach Mini 2 is a very lightweight and compact satellite communications tool with an easy-to-access SOS function. Garmin now has an inReach Mini 3 that has some improvements. Better safe in the wilderness.
— Tim Harden
–
–
Disclosure: Some of the companies above are in a professional relationship with Bighorn Wilderness Tours. There are also some affiliate links in this post. Though potentially benefiting from this relationship and these links, we do not post what we do not believe to be true. To read more, click here.
