The essential kit of every photographer may differ very much. Of course, the list of items you prefer to have in your bag can vary, depending on the task you currently have, your aesthetic preferences, and the number of equipment you own. However, there’s also a list of tools that, in my opinion, are essential. I always have them in my bag wherever I go. In the current blog, I would like to talk more about my daily kit and explain why I consider it the most versatile.
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Camera Holster + Backpack
There’s a long list of bags that you can use as a professional photographer. Every beginner usually starts with a classic shockproof and waterproof camera pouch, which can protect your camera but can not accommodate any other equipment larger than a cable or a memory card. When I started to grow as a professional, I adopted a bigger one that looked more like a shoulder bag with numerous sections for lenses, stands, lighting, etc. To tell the truth, it was pretty complicated to carry a bag this big on your hip all the time, and my left shoulder was hurting because of all the weight. So, quite soon, I decided to change the bag even though a fine big camera pouch is always one of the fastest ways to equip the required gear.
For more than ten years, I’ve preferred to carry my essentials in a backpack. I sincerely believe that it’s one of the most practical ways to carry your photo stuff. When it comes to the camera, I recommend trying a specialized camera holster, which is a little lighter than most pouches and much easier to carry.
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Memory Cards and a Memory Card Holder
Well, I guess it’s not necessary to explain why a photographer needs some spare memory cards. The moment when the memory on your device runs out will come sooner or later, and you need to make sure that you are prepared for that. Besides, many photographers tend to forget to upload all the shots, so it’s always a good idea to have some extra memory just in case.
The memory card holder is another essential item I recommend buying if you still don’t have one. For a long time, I refused to believe in its utility and thought it’s more of a fancy gadget for photographers who like to turn their profession into an obsession. However, the memory cards are small, and there have been a couple of very disappointing episodes when I lost great shots just because of the poor gear management. So, I recommend buying this one for you too.
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Portable Tripod
Sometimes my wife thinks that I am crazy because I always try to have my tripod at hand. Some of my fellow photographers are not that serious about shot stability. I do not like any compromises in my work, and I love to take photos after dark when it’s almost impossible to make a decent shot without a proper stand. However, if you carry one with you, you can take some shots that the lazy photographers can not. So, if you’re not completely satisfied with your night time photography, maybe you should try this trick?
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Polarizing and Protective Effect Lenses
Yeah, it will be a waste of time when you organize a serious photo session and forget to grab some essentials, like effect lenses. Only telephoto and super-telephoto lenses take lots of space and cost lots of money. But when we talk about all the other lenses, like simple protective lenses, wide-angle, polarizing, macro lenses, zoom lenses, or infrared lenses, they all may easily fit into a camera holster or a backpack if we talk about larger protective screens. And do not forget to take care of your lens kit – store them in a protective case, and do not forget to clean them every time you are about to take them with you. If you follow these simple rules, the lenses will serve you for a long time.
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 Portable Led Light
Isn’t it regrettable to miss a good night time shot? Yeah, some years ago, even the portative light looked pretty heavy, and it was a big question whether you want to carry some extra pounds on your back. However, these days the size of flexible and transportable led light allows you to carry at least 3 led light sources with you wherever you go. You can also consider equipping yourself with modern super-light and super-portable tripods that will provide you with multiple options and lots of space for experiments.
