Have you ever wanted to try your hand at photography, but you weren’t sure where to start? Perhaps it’s been years since you picked up a camera, or maybe someone you know is interested in trying something new.
For decades, locals have hit the trails with hiking boots and mountain bikes, eager to immerse themselves in our state’s unmatched natural beauty. But this season, there’s a different kind of gear you should consider packing for your next adventure: a camera lens.
Cameras and lenses can come in many shapes and sizes, and so can their price tags. The best way to make a well-informed decision is to rent different types of photography equipment. Try different brands and sizes first to see what fits best.
Whether you are a seasoned pro or someone who has only ever shot photos on a smartphone, capturing the world through a dedicated camera forces you to slow down. It demands that you observe the finer details, appreciate fleeting moments, and truly connect with your environment.
You can find the ultimate launchpad for your summer photography journey right here in Ogden at Farr’s Jewelry and Cameras.
A Heritage of Passion and Expertise
Located on Washington Boulevard, Farr’s has been a staple of the northern Utah community since 1956. The store sells and rents cutting-edge gear, and loyal customers have gifted a charming, museum-like display of vintage film cameras over the decades. It is a place that breathes history, but more importantly, it breathes passion.
At the helm of the operation is Mike Ash, the store’s general manager, whose face you’ve likely seen if you’ve ever looked for camera advice in Weber County. Mike is celebrating his 35th year at Farr’s, carrying with him a staggering 45 years of camera-selling expertise.
“I’ve loved photography since I was in high school,” Mike shares, recalling his days as a yearbook and newspaper photographer. That lifelong obsession is precisely why Farr’s has grown into the largest camera store north of Salt Lake City, stocking the powerhouse trio of the industry: Canon, Nikon, and Sony.
For Mike and his wife—who is also an avid photographer—photography isn’t just a job; it’s a lifestyle. “We share that passion,” Mike chuckles. “So now, anytime there’s new gear that comes out, we have to buy two of everything.”
Unlock the Outdoors: The Rental Room
If you are curious about photography but hesitant to commit financially, renting offers the perfect, low-risk opportunity to experiment. Today’s modern cameras have shifted to mirrorless technology, making them incredibly intuitive. As Mike points out, at their base level, they are practically as effortless to use as a cell phone. However, the creative freedom they unlock is truly exceptional.
Farr’s stocks a massive range of equipment available for sale and rent, meaning you can grab top-tier gear tailored exactly to your weekend plans. If you are heading out to spot wildlife or go birding, you can rent one of those massive, powerful telephoto lenses that would normally cost thousands of dollars to buy outright. Want to capture the sweeping landscapes of Goblin Valley, the majestic peaks of the Tetons, or a crisp, star-filled sky over the desert? You can rent a specialized wide-angle lens and a tripod to make your vision a reality.
“Generally, the more you spend on a camera, the less complicated it gets,” Mike explains. “They become better tools that are more accurate in low light and faster at focusing.” By renting, an amateur can temporarily step up to a $2,000 or $3,000 setup, letting the precise technology do the heavy lifting while they focus purely on the art of exploring.
Summer Starting Point
We live in a spectacular geographical location. From Ogden, we are just three and a half hours away from Yellowstone to the north, and roughly the same distance from Moab, Zion, and Bryce Canyon to the south. The potential for exploration is infinite, and a rental camera is the perfect companion to push you out of your comfort zone.
If you don’t know where to start, the team at Farr’s won’t just hand you a camera and wish you luck. They offer a popular “Photography 101” class explicitly designed for beginners who are new to the craft. In fact, when you decide to take the plunge and purchase a camera down the road, Farr’s includes the introductory class and free lens rentals to make sure you have the confidence to get out and shoot.
Summer moves quickly in Utah. This July, take a moment to see familiar places with a different kind of attention—through a lens that encourages you to slow down and notice more. Whether it’s a roadside view you’ve passed a hundred times or a long-awaited trip into the state’s red rock country, photography has a way of turning passing moments into something worth keeping. And sometimes, the right tool simply makes it easier to begin.
Getting Started with a Rental Camera
Renting a camera is one of the easiest ways to explore photography without a major up-front investment. Start by thinking about your goal—wildlife, landscapes, or everyday travel moments—then match your gear accordingly. A telephoto lens works well for distant subjects like birds or wildlife, while a wide-angle lens is ideal for sweeping Utah scenery. Don’t be afraid to keep it simple; modern mirrorless cameras are designed to be intuitive, even for beginners. Ask for a quick walkthrough when you rent, and take a few test shots before heading out. Most importantly, have fun—the goal isn’t perfection; it’s learning how to see differently. A short weekend rental can completely change the way you see the world around you.