When Downsizing to Smaller, Lighter, Less Expensive—Downsize Your Accessories As Well

Two types of wall adapter plugs.  On the left, a right angle adapter.  On the right a foldable adapter (click to enlarge)

The main reasons I have almost fully transitioned to mirrorless camera systems (I keep my Nikon system strictly for wildlife—for now!) is that I want to go smaller, lighter, less bulky, less expensive but keep my images at a very high quality.  Downsizing your cameras and lenses are one thing, but also look at your accessories that you may also carry in your bag.

Notice the adapter on the right.  The prongs fold up and in. (click to enlarge)

After buying a new camera, one thing that I do almost immediately is to replace my camera's battery charger cord with a wall adapter plug.  The female receptacle on all of the chargers I own (from three different manufacturers) is identical and I would suspect, somewhat universal, so you can buy a wide variety of plugs with different prongs, for different electrical standards, to fit your charger.

The bottom line is that by leaving your cord at home, you save room (bulk) in a bag when traveling or when out photographing and you believe you will need a charger before returning home.

I have purchased two kinds of wall plug adapters.  The one on the left is a 90 degree adapter.  The downside is that it sticks out quite far making it less convenient.  The adapter on the right is called a Duckhead 2-prong adapter.  The prongs fold up and into slots. That saves width.  This kind is similar to the plug adapters Apple supplies with some of its computer gear.  Either kind is inexpensive.  I paid less than $5.00 US for each and purchased them from Amazon.com, which is very convenient.

Additionally, you can unplug both of these at any time and stow them in a pouch or zippered pocket in your bag.  I bought several and normally carry a spare in my bag just in case I lose one, which then not allow me to charge my camera's batteries.

Downsize cameras, lenses and accessories to keep your gear less bulky and as lightweight as possible.  Also, don't forget the weight of your bag itself!

Thanks for looking. Enjoy! 

Dennis A. Mook 

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