Travelling to New Caledonia: what camera gear should you bring?

Are you planning a trip to New Caledonia and wondering what camera gear to bring? Between humidity, salt, heat and distances, a few precautions are called for. Here is a practical list, adapted to a trip to “le Caillou”, as locals call the main island.

Light, versatile gear

  • One versatile camera: a mirrorless with a standard zoom, a bridge camera or simply a good smartphone.
  • A wide-angle lens for landscapes, beaches and interiors.
  • A fast lens (35 mm or 50 mm) for portraits and low-light scenes.
  • A light telephoto lens if you want to photograph wildlife, birds or marine animals from the boat.
Framed photo of a beach in Hienghène on the east coast of New Caledonia, by BFO Photographie
A beach in Hienghène, on the east coast of New Caledonia.

Protecting yourself from salt, water and humidity

  • a waterproof cover or a zip bag for boat trips and the beach;
  • moisture-absorbing sachets (silica gel) in your camera bag;
  • a microfibre cloth to wipe off salt-water splashes;
  • for diving, snorkelling or swimming, a waterproof case for your smartphone or an action camera.

Power and storage

  • Spare batteries: heat and long days drain them quickly.
  • Several memory cards so you do not depend on a single one.
  • A plug adapter and a multi-charger for your accommodation.
  • A backup method: portable hard drive or online storage, every evening.

Drones: find out beforehand

If you want to bring a drone, check the local regulations beforehand, the permitted zones and the authorisations required. Some sites are protected or located on customary land.

The best idea: be in the photos

So that you do not spend your trip behind the lens and end up absent from your own memories, consider booking a photo session during your holiday. You enjoy yourselves, I take care of the images.

Read also: the best photo spots in New Caledonia · photographing at the beach under the tropical sun.

To organise your session in Nouméa or elsewhere in New Caledonia, contact me: I will reply quickly.