As a photographer, my camera bag is my lifeline. It holds everything I need to capture the perfect shot, whether I’m shooting a wedding, a portrait session, or a landscape. Here’s a peek into what I carry in my camera bag for a shoot, focusing on my essential gear and a few handy accessories.
Cameras
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV (x2): I always carry two Canon EOS 5D Mark IV bodies. This full-frame DSLR is a workhorse, known for its excellent image quality, robust build, and reliable performance. Having two bodies allows me to switch between different lenses quickly without missing a moment, and it also serves as a backup in case of any technical issues.
Canon EOS R6: Adding a mirrorless option to my kit, the Canon EOS R6 is a fantastic addition. Its compact size and advanced features, like in-body image stabilization and excellent low-light performance, make it a versatile tool for various shooting conditions.
Lenses
Canon EF 85mm f/1.2L II USM: This lens is a favorite for portrait photography. Its wide aperture of f/1.2 allows for stunning bokeh and excellent low-light performance. The 85mm focal length is perfect for capturing flattering portraits with a natural perspective.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM: This versatile telephoto zoom lens is ideal for a variety of situations, from portraits to sports and wildlife photography. The f/2.8 aperture provides great depth of field control and performs well in low light. The image stabilization feature helps to keep shots sharp, even at slower shutter speeds.
Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM: For the Canon EOS R6, this lens is a must-have. The 24-70mm focal range is incredibly versatile, covering wide-angle to short telephoto. The f/2.8 aperture and image stabilization make it perfect for low-light conditions and fast-paced shooting1.
Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM: This prime lens is known for its exceptional sharpness and beautiful bokeh. It’s perfect for portraits, street photography, and any situation where you want to isolate your subject from the background2.
Accessories
Memory Cards: I carry multiple high-capacity memory cards to ensure I have plenty of storage for high-resolution images. I prefer using fast cards to handle the large file sizes and to speed up the workflow.
Extra Batteries: Running out of battery power in the middle of a shoot is a nightmare. I always pack several fully charged spare batteries to keep my cameras running all day.
Lens Cleaning Kit: Keeping my lenses clean is crucial for maintaining image quality. My kit includes a blower, a soft brush, lens cleaning solution, and microfiber cloths. These tools help me quickly remove dust and smudges from my lenses.
Portable Flash: For additional lighting, I carry a portable flash unit. It’s essential for indoor shoots or when natural light is insufficient. I also pack a set of diffusers and gels to modify the light as needed.
Tripod: A sturdy tripod is a must for long exposure shots, landscapes, and any situation where camera stability is crucial. I use a lightweight carbon fiber tripod that’s easy to carry and set up.
Remote Shutter Release: This accessory is perfect for reducing camera shake during long exposures and for taking self-portraits or group shots where I need to be in the frame.
Reflector: A collapsible reflector helps me manipulate natural light to fill in shadows and add highlights to my subjects. It’s a simple yet powerful tool for enhancing the quality of my photos.
Notebook and Pen: I like to jot down notes about the shoot, including location details, lighting conditions, and any creative ideas that come to mind. It’s also handy for keeping track of shot lists and client requests.
Water Bottle and Snacks: Staying hydrated and energized is important, especially during long shoots. I always pack a water bottle and some snacks to keep me going.
First Aid Kit: Accidents can happen, so I carry a small first aid kit with band-aids, antiseptic wipes, and pain relievers. It’s better to be prepared for any minor injuries that might occur.
Conclusion
Packing the right gear is essential for a successful shoot. My camera bag is carefully curated to ensure I have everything I need to handle any situation that arises. With my Canon 5D Mark IV cameras, Canon EOS R6, L series lenses, and a selection of essential accessories, I’m ready to capture stunning images wherever my photography journey takes me.
