Gear Guide

We know that photographers are always asking one another, “What gear are you using?”. So we figured we would put out a list of the gear we are using from cameras, lenses, lights, bags, stands, and more! Take a look at the list, hit the links, and of course - let me know if you have any questions.

Cameras: There are so many good cameras out there these days that really any of the options below will work. As a Canon user, it is the system I am comfortable and I really appreciate the color accuracy that Canon cameras consistently produce.

  • Canon EOS R5 - Probably the best workhorse in the Canon mirrorless line-up right now.

  • Canon EOS R - Budget mirrorless camera that can do it all. Great starter camera.

Lenses: I highly recommend using Tilt-Shift lenses. While you can certainly get by without them, and there are certain situations where they are necessary, a standard zoom lens doesn’t function the same when composing your shot. Tilt-Shift lenses are more expensive so a great starting point can be something like a 24-70mm lens.

  • Canon TS-E 24mm f/3.5L II Ultra Wide Tilt-Shift Lens - This is the best starter Tilt-Shift lens you can by. It’s probably the most versatile focal length, especially since you can pair it with the 1.4x extender to also give you a 35mm equivalent.

  • Going to be working in tight spaces? Then the Canon TS-E 17mm f/4 will need to be in your kit. This lens is great for photographing bathrooms, entryways, hotel rooms, and more. If you are going to invest in Tilt Shift lenses, then this is the second lens I would recommend.

  • Before jumping to the last of the Tilt Shift we recommend, I suggest the Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8. A great, versatile lens. While it isn’t tilt-shift, the extra focal length to zoom in and compress your scene is a huge benefit.

  • Last but not least is the Canon TS-E 45mm. Having the extra focal length to compress your images with the Tilt-Shift functionality is great.

  • If Tilt-Shift lenses aren’t in your budget, then I would also suggest the Canon RF 15-35 f/2.8. Perfect for those wide-shots but also with zoom capability.

Tripod and Bags: A lot of this will be personal preference, but here is what I am using right now.

  • Think Tank Airport Advantage - The right size for all your gear and it will easily fit under the seat of just about any aircraft so you know that your gear is safe and sound. Perfect for local shoots as well as it prevents you from bringing too much.

  • Gitzo Tripod - So many Gitzo options, but they are durable, strong, and lightweight. Find the one that works best for your needs.

  • Arca Swiss D4 - You need a head on that tripod right? Arca Swiss is the best in the game. The d4 is smaller and more lightweight than the cube…and a bit less overwhelming.

Lights and Stands: Profoto is the biggest name in the game and rightly so. They have amazing quality with their flashes and they just work. That said, they are pricey so I am including other options as well.

  • Profoto B10x Kit - The biggest name in the game with a price to match.

  • Godox AD400 Pro - An excellent option for those just starting out or that just don’t want to spend the Profoto prices.

  • Manfrotto Light Stand - These stack together so they take up such little space. They also have a smaller version, the 1005BAC, which is great when you only want to take one stand with you or have to take one with you on a plane.

Accessories and Things: A list of some last things that I use and that have come in handy for me on nearly every shoot.

  • Camranger 2 - Wireless connectivity to your computer or iPad. This thing is priceless. Get the extra batter pack though.

  • Black Backdrop - Need to block light? This is a great lightweight option that covers lots of space (ie, windows). You can also use camping blankets if you want something that packs up really small as well.

  • Pelican SD Card Case - Nothing protects photography gear like Pelican. Why take a chance with your memory cards? Keep them safe and make sure you have extras on-hand with this case.

  • Light Stand Bag - No need to spend money on a photography name brand bag for light stands. This one works great.

  • Umbrellas - At some point when using lights you will need to use an umbrella. This is a great starter kit. You can work your way up to softboxes, larger umbrellas, diffusers, etc.

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