Lessons Learned

Since I've been back for a couple weeks now, I thought I would share some tips I've learned on this trip... For those of you who may stumble upon this blog because you're interested in going to Antarctica, feel free to drop me a line. I'd love to share more info with you.

All right, here we go.

1. I am an over-packer. This isn't a new lesson, but I still make the mistake every time. For this specific trip, I fooled myself because I thought I had to pack for hot and cold climates since I was heading to Buenos Aires first. In reality, if I had packed 1 pair of shorts, 4 tshirts, and my cold weather gear, I would have been fine. People on the ship don't care if you wear the same thing everyday. Just make sure to shower.

2. Be prepared to get wet. Since it's summer down in Antarctica, it may not get cold enough to snow. Plus, when riding in the zodiacs, you can get wet from spray as well.

3. In concert with #2, bring gear to protect your camera from the wet. I used a Kata Rain Cover when taking pictures. Although there are a few little nuisances, overall it worked pretty well in the rainy whether. For the budget minded, here is a simple substitute I learned on the ship- for DSLRs, it can be as simple as poking two holes in the bottom of a ziploc bag, running your camera strap through the holes, and placing the camera inside. Then when you need to take a picture, simply "unzip" the bag so your lens has an opening to take the picture.

4. Some people used thicker ski gloves, but I found thin but warm ones made photography much easier. I used these OR Vert gloves and they rocked.

5. If you're going on a cruise, try to socialize with your fellow passengers of all ages, backgrounds, and demographics. I know that's hard for introverts, but it's much more fun when you know the people you're with. Plus, it'll help pass the time on the Drake faster.

6. Try to do something different. Go camping. Go kayaking. Do the Plunge. It'll make for a cool story later, and make your life much richer now.

7. I know I mentioned that I tend to overpack, but one thing I am glad I brought was my computer and assorted gear. I was able to organize and edit my pictures during my free time, as well as type up my blog entries. In addition, I brought 2 external hard drives so I could back up my photos.

8. If you have a video feature on your camera, use it. I find myself looking at the few videos I took during the trip, and wish I had more. As a bonus: if you have a tripod, use it for the video. Mine look like I was still on the Drake Passage even though I was on solid ground.

9. I love photography. But at some point(s) during the trip, take a moment to look around without looking through your camera's viewfinder/LCD display. Savor that moment. Remember the crispness of the air, the size of the glacier, the humor of watching the penguins, and the beauty that surrounds you. This is why you came to Antarctica.