As a brand photographer, I carry a bit more in my camera bag than a typical portrait photographer. In addition to the camera gear and lighting gear that every photographer needs, I also have more practical items to make my client feel as comfortable as possible AND handle any wardrobe malfunctions as needed!Without further ado, here is my brand photography gear and equipment list.
Prefer to watch a video of my brand photography gear list? Watch it here!
This post has affiliate links. I earn a percentage if you purchase, but at no extra cost to you! This is all gear I actually use and recommend.
Bag and Organization
Photographer organization is essential. When it comes to bags, I don’t like to walk around with a bag that screams, “hey I have a lot of money in here!”
So instead of carrying something like a Think Tank or Pelican case, I prefer to use my Peak Design Cube inside of a regular backpack that I got from Amazon. This backpack also has a laptop sleeve and everything fits in perfectly.
It can get heavy, so when I’m also carrying lights I’ll roll it in my Hulken bag (medium size). I am OBSESSED with this bag and I tell everyone I know to get one. I’m not sponsored, but Hulken, if you’re reading, I would like to be š
I’ve had it for 5 years. The wheels are still going strong!
You can see it in action in this Instagram Reel.
Accessories
These are all of the bits and bobs that I carry with me, because you never know when you’ll need them:
- SD cards (obviously)
- CFexpress Type B cards
- SD card holder – hard case
- card holder – soft case (also fits my CFexpress cards)
- Electronic cleaning/tech kit – good for moving delicate things like jewelry
- Microfiber cloths
One thing I want to call out even more: my pop-up changing tent! I used to just keep this in my car trunk. It can be a pain to try and find a comfortable place for your client to change. Well, the tent isn’t super comfortable, but it’s better than behind a tree!
Behind-the-Scenes Camera
You may have seen this camera trending on social media. Yes, it really is that awesome.
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is my FAVORITE camera for capturing behind-the-scenes while you are doing a photoshoot, which is essential for content creation. Some of my favorite features include:
- The size – it is SO small! Fits in the palm of my hand.
- Built-in gimbal
- Ability to film both horizontal and vertical video
- 4k horizontal filming (3k if filming vertically)
- Face tracking
- Comes with an app to connect to your phone
I highly recommend getting the Creator Bundle. It comes with a bluetooth microphone, tripod, carrying case, and battery pack. You really do need the additional battery if you’re going to be filming for long periods of time.
All of the behind-the-scenes footage in this YouTube video was filmed with my DJI Osmo Pocket 3.
Camera Strap
I use the Black Rapid camera strap system. Typically I only use the right-handed sling. If I am dual shooting with both cameras, you can attach both the left-handed and right-handed slings with this to turn it into a double camera holster.
Primary Camera and Lenses
I currently use the Nikon Z6ii as my primary camera body. I prefer to shoot with all prime lenses because I tend to shoot with a wider aperture, between 1.4-2.2 usually.
These are the lenses I use:
- FTZ adapter: Adapter to adapt my F-mount lenses to the Z-mount
- Nikon’s nifty fifty: Nikkor 50mm 1.4g
- Sigma 35mm 1.4
- Nikon 85mm 1.8
Video Equipment
I shoot primarily B-Roll video for my clients (short video clips without audio) that they can use on their website and on social media. I also offer scripted brand videos for my clients.
Personally, I do prefer the Sony body for video AND photo now, but it doesn’t make sense for me to upgrade everything right now.
- Body: Sony A7IV
- Lens: Tamron 28-75mm 2.8
- Gimbal: DJI RS3 Mini
- Lavalier mic: Tascam DR-10L
- Shotgun mic: Rode Videomic NTG
- Manfrotto foldable travel tripod
My “Just In Case” Kit
These are things I carry with me that aren’t gear related, but photoshoot related:
- mini lint roller
- flyaway tamer, and disposable mascara wands for sanitary application
- safety pins
- fashion tape (this comes in handy more than you think!)
- decorative pens in case we need them as props
Lights and Modifiers
Artificial lights are absolutely essential as a brand photographer! You never know what situation you’re going to end up in, so it’s better to be prepared.
My main key light is the Aputure Amaran 100x S. I use it with this lantern softbox modifier. If I can, I’ll only setup this light. If I still need more light, I’ll fill in any shadows with my Neewer LED panels (I have 2 of them).
And finally, these are the reflectors I use!
That’s my brand photography gear list! If you have any questions, you can drop them in the comments below.
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