I attended the fabulous BFOP (Bright Festival of Photography) last year for the first time. While I didn’t do too bad, I did learn a trick or two for what to do for this year. So as I head off on yet another photography adventure, I stopped to think about what to take.

BFOP is three-day event, jam-packed with photography workshops, product demos, guest speakers, and so much more, set in the picturesque town of Bright in Victoria (Australia). 500 keen photographers all jammed in together for fun, laughter and, of course, photography.

BTS from one of the 2023 workshops
BTS from one of the 2023 workshops

Clothes and essentials

  • It’s in the high country, so days are still a little on the cooler side. So pack layers, as the mornings are chilly and the afternoons can warm up a bit. Thermals and vests will be quite essential. Basically, make sure you bring cloths appropriate for where and when you are going.
  • Good solid walking shoes or boots, and pack a spare, just in case
  • Rain jacket, hat and possibly beanie and scarf
  • Toiletries and personal effects, any medications you require etc.
  • As we are staying in a hotel, we won’t need any bedding, towels etc. But we did pack stuff for quick breakfasts and snacks last time, so will do that again. Having workshops morning, noon and night meant weird meal times or early starts, so having food or snack options was a great idea. Sure you can buy food in town, but most cafes are packed with so many togs, and you often need something quickly.
  • Water bottles (a must)
Don’t forget your water bottle

Camera gear

This will be entirely dependent on the workshops you are doing, but it does pay to have an open mind. For instance, I am taking my wide angle in case we spot some dramatic landscapes in our time off. ND Filters for waterfalls etc as well as my tripod. Although I doubt I will need any of those for the workshops I have picked. But we do plan on exploring on the way up and back.

Tamron 70-180mm G2 lens

Don’t forget

  • Write down what you take and take note of serial numbers.
  • Where possible use a label maker and label all your gear
  • Check with workshop instructors (where possible) what lens, gear, etc. they recommend

I have probably forgotten many things, I always seem to. But hopefully, this list may help someone out. Whatever you do, spring and fall are fabulous times to be out and about.

Happy road-tripping… Oh, and feel free to add to my list!