Gear We Use

Gear We Use (and Discounts)

Here is some of the gear that we use...
  • We are using OM SYSTEM (formerly Olympus) gear completely now. Please note that anyone /everyone can attend our workshops (mobile device, film camera, dSLR, mirrorless, etc.) 

  • AK Flash diffuser https://akdiffuser.com/?wpam_id=21
    • created for your flash/lens combination, it provides a soft buttery light, and directs that light to your flower or critter.
  • Infrared camera converted by LifePixel https://www.lifepixel.com/?ar=104
    • They have a tab with camera considerations and another with infrared-filters-choices. My recommendation is the All In One Camera Solution: If you want an all in one solution for your normal visible light photography as well as IR then mirrorless is the way to go, along with our Full Spectrum Conversion and External Filters. Then all you would need is to swap the filter over your lens and you can instantly go from normal to IR and back again. No need to worry about focus whatsoever, use any mirrorless lens you want – they will all focus IR light just as well as visible. We even give you up to 20% OFF the filters when you get your Full Spectrum Conversion and External Filters ordered together.
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-om-1
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom-OMGear
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-omlenses
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-OM90mm
  • tinyurl.com/LisatomOM60
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTomTG7camera
  • tinyurl.com/lisatomOM5
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-825
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom-12mm
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-20
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-12-40
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-12-45
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom12-100
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom100400
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom4015028
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom300
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom150400
  • CERTIFIED RECONDITIONED tinyurl.com/lisatom-OMR1
  • Buying Guide tinyurl.com/lisatom-BG23
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom700
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom-MC14
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTomOMWR
  • Batteries tinyurl.com/LisaTom-OMB
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom-AK https://akdiffuser.com/shop/?wpam_id=21
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTom-AK60
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-AK90
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTomDiffuser
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-peakdesigntripod http://peak-design.pxf.io/lisatom-peakdesigntripod
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-PDHead
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-PDtripod
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-connector https://amzn.to/3QLZzKr
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-flex https://amzn.to/3QCOpqb
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTomNik
  • tinyurl.com/LisaTomDxO
  • tinyurl.com/lisatomPureRAW
  • tinyurl.com/lisatom-kate







  • We purchase our Gear from Hunts Photo. A pdf file containing links to the gear and software that we use, as well as discounts, can be downloaded here:  http://tinyurl.com/cuchara-gear
  • We purchase our photo gear from Hunts Photos – they are big enough to have what you need but small enough to help you and answer your questions (and they stand by their products). 
    • Contact Alan Samiljan (asamiljan@huntsphoto.com or 781-462-2383) and let him know that you attended a class or a program or workshop with us (or read our blog) and he will give you discounts on the gear that we use.
    • if Alan is not available, contact 
      • Brian, bmaryansky@huntsphoto.com
      • Kayla, kayla@huntsphoto.com 
      • Larry, lhuntoon@huntsphoto.com. 
      • Please mention that you are contacting them at the recommendation of Lisa & Tom Cuchara and Alan Samiljan. 
      • You can also call Hunts at 781-662-8822
  • Cable release (if you have a wired and a wireless cable release bring both as this is the piece of equipment most likely to fail and you want it for the 30-second to five-minute exposures.
    • Has the shape and feel of an iPhone, with an adjustable intensity 
  • ROKKES LED Rechargeable Handheld Flashlight - Zoomable, 1500 Lumens 
  • Wacom tablets 
    • $15  off  PTH451 Pro Pen & Touch Tablet…
  • My Olympus camera was converted by LifePixel https://tinyurl.com/Lifepixel-IR.
    • I did a full spectrum conversion so that I can put a visible filter back on if I wanted to bring the IR as a backup camera. I then use one of these two filters, either of which I can also convert to BW.
    • Filter Band:Hyper Color Infrared (470nm) and Filter Band:Super Color Infrared (590nm)
    • Want more info? go to https://tinyurl.com/Lifepixel-IR and then "start here"

We purchase our Gear from Hunts Photo. A pdf file containing links to the gear and software that we use, as well as discounts, can be downloaded here:  http://tinyurl.com/cuchara-gear

We purchase our photo gear from Hunts Photos – they are big enough to have what you need but small enough to help you and answer your questions (and they stand by their products). Contact Alan Samiljan (asamiljan@huntsphoto.com or 781-462-2383) and let him know that you attended a class or a program or workshop with us (or read our blog) and he will give you discounts on the gear that we use.  

Hunts Photo 100 Main St. Melrose, MA 02176 (781-662-8822). Hunts will work with you for your photographic needs. If any code does not work then please call Alan and he will help you place your order over the phone. Hunts always works with you for your photographic needs!!

If Alan is unavailable, then contact one of these Hunts representatives.
Why Shop at Hunt’s? Unlike “big box” stores or online sellers, Hunt’s makes personal service part of every purchase. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting the perfect camera for your individual lifestyle and interests. As a major supplier to the consumer, professional, educational and government markets, Hunt’s maintains a well-stocked inventory of photo, video and digital imaging equipment from every major manufacturer so you’ll have plenty of options from which to choose. With seven retail locations in four New England states, Hunt’s offers an unbeatable combination of competitive pricing, sales know-how, and unparalleled customer service. FYI, we only list items that we personally use and we do not receive a commission on items ordered thru Hunts. 

Wacom Tablet 



Alta Pro tripods have an innovative Multi-Angle Central Column (MACC) System allows users to move the central column from zero to 180-degree angles in variable vertical and horizontal positions making macro-photography and special wide-angle shots a breeze. The Instant Swivel Stop-n-Lock (ISSL) System securely repositions the central column in one simple movement, in just a few seconds, while maintaining the tripod's stability. Other features include advanced camera vibration and shock control, legs that adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles, patented premium magnesium die-cast canopy and head, hexagon-shaped central column for extra stability, and non-slip, spiked rubber feet for changing terrains and a removable hook for hanging camera accessories. Alta Pro 263AT is aluminum alloy and has quick-flip leg locks. Central column moves from 0 to 180 degrees. Legs adjust to 25, 50 and 80-degree angles

This is an awesome ballhead, lightweight and study. It can act as a gimbal too. Can be used with lenses like the 300mm f2.8 or 400 mm. Have a longer lens? Then use a Wimberly.
Acratech/1152.jpg


We consider an L bracket a MUST for serious photographers.
Kirk/BL7D.jpg
This Kirk L-Bracket for is a right-angle, quick-release bracket that fits on the base 
of the camera, allowing you to quickly move from vertical to horizontal format without 
moving your tripod head or changing your position. 
It allows you to keep the weight of your camera over the center of the tripod, rather than 
pulling it off to one side if you use a standard plate and a ballhead or tripod head. 
It also is great when going from horizontal to vertical and back because you do not 
need to reposition your composition. 

Extension tubes, a must for macro photographers. 
We use an extension tube on our 300mm, 60mm and 40-150mm Olympus lenses. 
We used to use one quite often on our 70-200mm Canon lens to allow closer focusing. And sometimes on our 500mm Canon lens.
Keep one in your vest when photographing!
    Kenko/AEXTUBEDGC.jpg

Light Tent
10% off Interfit 24-inch Cool-Light Pop Up Tent Kit with 2 Flourescent Lights
or use coupon code: 3aUdJ

1.     Enter the discount use code breaphotos for 15% off Topaz products
2.     PhotoMatix -- 15% off Photomatix software and plugins
·        Enter code BREAphotos (not case-sensitive) to get a 15% discount

3.     Flypaper Textures
·        http://tinyurl.com/cuchara-flypaper   

4.     2 Lil Owls --  Textures, Presets, Actions and More For Creative People
·        http://tinyurl.com/2lilowls

Flashlights for night photography and light painting.

We love night photography and have purchased a plethora of  flashlights, some are great and some not so great. Here are our favorites, and with an explanation of which we use under what conditions.

Do not use a white light flashlight at night for routine work, you will be blinded and have no night vision. We went to a recent night photo workshop and people had all kinds of bright white lights, and head lamps, they had no night vision and when they looked at someone they became blinded too.

For lightpainting


This one is good for light painting (and it has red and Blue filters for fun color effects)  http://amzn.to/1N9vtVp (currently out of stock so try this one http://amzn.to/2ykX7Qv or this one http://amzn.to/2ylmJwg)
This one is good for painting things far away, like lighthouses and rocks. We find it too bright and it has a hot spot when you are close, but it is perfect for things further away. For things closer better to spend more time with a dimmer more even flashlight like the one above. http://amzn.to/1N9vJUg

A headlamp is wonderful to have. It is great for hands free walking at night. preserves night vision. Do not use when photographing, as light will leak in thru viewfinder,etc. if you are standing behind your camera. http://amzn.to/1N9vLLQ
This last one has its own tripod, so it is great when you are on a dark night and need to focus. Turn it on, use auto focus, switch focus to manual focus and turn off flashlight. http://amzn.to/1OkgRGs


WE USE OUR LIGHT TENTS ALL THE TIME!
Interfit/INT321.jpg
24" x 24" Pop up Light Tent
The easy way to control both Shadows and reflections. The tent is supplied with a blue background cloth which is held in place by Velcro strips to facilitate easy removal or changing of the background.
A removable front panel allows for further control of reflections w hen photographing reflective subjects. The tent collapses down to fit into the circular zipped bag supplied. Folds to 11"
Kit Contains: 2 x INT103 Flourescent (Daylight Tube) heads, 2 x COR750 Air damped stands, 1 x 24" Light tent

Smith-Victor/402055.jpg
The Fluorescent Light Box Tent Kits use Smith-Victor's new line of FL3 Fluorescent lights that are very economical to operate. The FL-3 uses "flicker free" compact fluorescent bulbs with true "daylight" color temperatures (5500K). The bulbs have a life of approximately 10,000 hours and produce virtually no heat. Excellent for shooting food, plants, animals, scientific and medical applications.
Kit Includes: 2 DigiLight FL-3 Fluorescent Lights, 6 26-Watt Fluorescent Lamps, 2 Raven RS8 8' Black Aluminum Light Stands, 1 28" Light Box Shooting Tent, 1 Imaging with Light Guide


Most of us can attest to Hunt’s exceptional customer service and product knowledge. They are the heart and soul of the NECCC conference and also many state PPA conventions too. Whether it’s a camera, lens, tripod, or anything else photo and video, Hunt’s will help you find just the right product. They have local brick and mortar stores to visit, you can also purchase online or just call a salesperson to help you make the right choices. They stand behind their products too with great customer support. Their main store is at 100 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176 (781-662-8822) but they have other stores too.

So please keep Hunt’s Photo & Video in mind the next time you are in the market for any gear!  

We generally call Alan Samiljan (asamiljan@huntsphoto.com; 781-462-2383) or Chris Borto Ph: 781-462-2374 (cborto@huntsphoto.com) 

From the Hunt’s web site:
You’ll be ready to start shooting as soon as you leave the store when you purchase your camera at Hunt’s Photo & Video. As New England’s largest retailer of photo, video and digital imaging products, we make sure every client feels comfortable with his or her purchase and confident in its use. Whether you are a student, hobbyist, or photo or video professional, Hunt’s Photo, Video and definitely Digital will help you choose the right equipment for all of your imaging needs.

Why Shop at Hunt’s?
Unlike “big box” stores or online sellers, Hunt’s makes personal service part of every purchase. Our friendly, knowledgeable staff will assist you in selecting the perfect camera for your individual lifestyle and interests. As a major supplier to the consumer, professional, educational and government markets, Hunt’s maintains a well-stocked inventory of photo, video and digital imaging equipment from every major manufacturer so you’ll have plenty of options from which to choose. With seven retail locations in four New England states, Hunt’s offers an unbeatable combination of competitive pricing, sales know-how, and unparalleled customer service.

A little history…
Three generations of Farber family ownership have established Hunt’s as a trendsetter in the imaging equipment industry. Begun as a Malden Center drugstore by pharmacist Solomon Farber and his sons, Hunt’s began building its camera business during the 1950s under the visionary leadership of Solomon’s son, Jack. As interest in photography grew and small neighborhood pharmacies fell victim to big national chains, Hunt’s began shifting its emphasis away from the pharmacy business and into the business of cameras and accessories. By 1992, the pharmacy closed and imaging equipment became Hunt’s primary focus.

Led today by Jack’s sons, Scott and Gary, Hunt’s proudly serves a diverse audience of individual, corporate, educational, and government clients as one of the country’s largest retailers of photographic, video and digital imaging products. As the sponsor of the renowned Hunt’s Show and Sale each fall, the company hosts a three-day showcase of the latest trends in photographic equipment for users at all levels. Visit Hunt’s 30,000 square foot flagship store at 100 Main Street, Melrose, or one of its satellite locations in Boston, MA – Cambridge, MA – Hanover, MA – Holyoke, MA – Providence, RI – So. Portland, ME – or Manchester, NH to discover how Hunt’s Photo, Video and definitely Digital can help you create your own picture of success.



WB Hunt Co., Inc.
Gary Farber digitalguygary@wbhunt.com
100 Main St., Melrose, MA 02176
Ph:781-462-2374  f:781-662-6524


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