Steve Hamm (@stephenhammphotography) is a landscape photographer rooted in the dramatic landscapes of Colorado. “My lens captures the grandeur of mountain vistas and the expansive, captivating landscapes of the American Southwest. Drawing from my background as a former chef, I approach my images with the same delicate and ‘flavorful’ touch that I would employ when crafting a recipe. By skillfully incorporating light and shadows to create depth, I aim to immerse the viewer in each scene.” We caught up with Hamm to learn more about the gear in his kit for stunning landscape and astrophotography. Keep reading as he shares details about the full-frame Sony Alpha kit of cameras zoom lenses (including a surprising super tele-zoom) and essential accessories you’ll find in his bag.
Product Preview – In This Article You'll Find:
–Sony Alpha 7R IV
–Sony Alpha 7R III
–Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master
–Sony 16-35mm f/4
–Sony 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G
–Sony RMT-P1BT Remote
Colorado-based photographer Steve Hamm packs a pair of high-resolution cameras and a trio of zooms to create immersive and dramatic landscape scenes.
Cameras
Sony Alpha 7R IV: This camera has become my go-to for the majority of my images. The 61-megapixel sensor enables me to capture expansive scenes, ensuring that my prints can be produced on a large scale without compromising on detail. Shooting during the captivating periods of pre dawn and dusk is made effortless by the wide ISO range, allowing me to preserve the stunning quality of light. Additionally, the impeccable image stabilization proves invaluable for handheld shots at slower shutter speeds, ensuring sharp and clear results.
Photo by Steve Hamm. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G. 1/80-sec, f/5.6, ISO 100
Sony Alpha 7R III: This camera body serves as my primary tool for time-lapse photography, allowing me to set it up and seamlessly forget about it. Its capability to capture the evolving scene in various lighting conditions makes it perfect for my time-lapse projects. The impressive 42-megapixel sensor excels, even in low-light situations, making it an ideal choice for astrophotography where intricate details can be captured.
Photo by Steve Hamm. Sony Alpha 7R III. Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/100-sec., f/11, ISO 100
Lenses
Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master: This is by far my favorite lens. It is always attached to my Alpha 7R IV. I am able to get within inches of my subject. The curvature of the glass is perfect for adding depth and distortion to the subject. 24mm Is ideal for bringing the background closer in the scene. It is also fast. I am able to capture the tons of light from the Milky Way. It is on the heavy side at 2 lbs. But it isn't enough to notice while backpacking. You will always find this lens in my bag, with no exceptions.
Photo by Steve Hamm. Composite: Foreground: Sony Alpha 7R III. Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master. 2.5-sec, f/8, ISO 100. Sky: Tracked Sony Alpha 7R III. Sony 12-24mm f/2.8 G Master. 10-min., f/2.8, ISO 640
Sony 16-35mm f/4: This marked my initiation into the realm of wide-angle lenses. Its compact and lightweight design makes it an indispensable inclusion in my camera bag. The 16-35mm focal length is perfect for encapsulating a diverse range of landscapes, whether the majestic expanses of mountainscapes or the serene beauty of seascapes.
Photo by Steve Hamm. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 16-35mm f/4. 6-sec., f/11, ISO 100
Sony 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3 G: Having owned this lens for several years, my affection for it only deepens. Its compact design, weighing a mere 1.3 pounds, makes it an ideal companion for long hikes. The built-in stabilization feature enhances the ease of shooting handheld, providing comfort in your hands during prolonged use. Being a crop sensor lens, it effectively translates to a focal range equivalent to 105-525mm on a full-frame sensor, adding to its versatility and making it well-suited for various photographic situations.
Photo by Steve Hamm. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 70-350mm f/4.5-6.3. 1/1250-sec., f/7.1, ISO 320
Accessories
Sony RMT-P1BT Remote: I use this to focus stack and as a shutter release.
Memory Card: For storing my images.
Really Right Stuff MK2 Long: My tripod.
Really Right Stuff Leveling Base. I use this to ensure everything is level.
Really Right Stuff BH-40 w/ Lever Release: The quick-release lever makes mounting the camera a breeze.
3 Lt Camelbak Bladder: Keeps me hydrated.
Lens Cloth: To wipe off my lens.
Extra Batteries: Never want to run out of power.
See more of Steve Hamm’s work on Instagram @stephenhammphotography and on his website stevehammphotos.com.
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