As a professional photographer specializing in family portraits, senior sessions, and newborn photography, I’ve curated a set of tools that I rely on to deliver the best images for my clients. Today, I’m excited to give you a peek inside my bag and share the gear that helps me create beautiful, timeless photos.
Nikon Zf Mirrorless Camera
I shoot primarily with the Nikon Zf, a camera that I absolutely love for its versatility and incredible image quality. Its mirrorless design allows for faster focus and sharper images, which is essential for capturing moments that matter. Whether I’m photographing a wiggly toddler during a family session or the perfect golden-hour light for senior portraits, my Nikon Zf delivers every time.
Lenses: 24mm, 35mm, and 50mm
I keep a trio of lenses in my kit, each one offering its own unique strengths. The 24mm is my go-to for wide-angle shots, especially when I want to capture the entire scene or include the surrounding environment in the frame. It’s perfect for family sessions or when I want to add some dramatic depth to a landscape or background.
The 35mm is perfect for wide shots that still focus on the subjects, and my 50mm helps me achieve beautiful, crisp portraits with dreamy background blur. This combination gives me the flexibility to adapt to any environment, from cozy indoor newborn sessions to wide-open outdoor family shoots.
Creative Tip: Plastic Baggie for Dreamy Effects
*First Image on the left above!
Here’s a fun trick I love using during my sessions: I carry a plastic baggie in my kit to create a soft, dreamy effect over my images. By lightly placing the baggie over part of my lens, I can achieve a unique glow or hazy blur that enhances the mood of certain shots. It’s a simple hack, but it really adds an artistic touch when I want to create something special!
Dual Camera Holster
Being quick and efficient during shoots is key, especially when working with families and kids. My dual camera holster allows me to switch between cameras (or lenses) quickly, ensuring I never miss a moment. It also helps me stay comfortable throughout the day, especially during longer sessions.
Extra Memory Cards and Battery Packs
One thing I always make sure to carry with me is a set of extra memory cards and fully charged battery packs. There’s nothing worse than running out of storage or power in the middle of a session! The extra memory cards ensure I have plenty of space to capture hundreds of high-resolution images without worrying about hitting capacity, while the battery packs give me the peace of mind that my camera will stay powered throughout the day. I never leave for a shoot without them!
