When I first started photography, it felt like there were a million decisions to make about gear. Over time (and after a lot of trial and error), I’ve learned what truly matters — and what just takes up space in my camera bag. If you’re just starting your photography journey, or even if you’ve been at it for a while and want to refine your kit, I hope this post gives you some clarity and saves you some money (and headaches!).
Here’s a look at my favorite pieces of gear — the ones I reach for constantly — and the items I would absolutely skip if I could start over.
My Favorite Photography Gear
(Here’s where you can insert your own list — I’ll set it up for you!)
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Camera Body: Canon 5d mark iv and Canon 5d mark iii
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Favorite Prime Lenses: 35mm f1.4, 50mm f1.2, 85mm f1.2, 100mm Macro f2.8
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Essential Accessories: 2-camera harness, 580 exii flash, 430 exii flash, CF cards and batteries
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Must-Have for Wide Shots: 17-40mm f4.0
Each of these pieces has earned a permanent spot in my bag because they help me create the kind of photos I love — sharp, soulful, full of depth, and connection.
What I Would Skip If I Were Starting Over
When I was new to photography, I made a few choices based on fear and budget rather than on what would really serve my vision long term. Here’s what I wouldn’t buy again:
1. Cheap “Starter” Gear
I totally understand the temptation to go for the most affordable options when you’re just starting out. But (with one notable exception I’ll talk about in a minute!), investing in higher quality gear from the beginning would have saved me both money and frustration. Cheap gear often doesn’t perform well in challenging lighting conditions, wears out quickly, and can actually slow your growth as a photographer.
That said, there is a place for some budget-friendly magic — enter, the “plastic fantastic“. There is a Canon 50mm 1.8 lens that is priced significantly low, as it’s made out of more plastic than it’s counterparts. It was the first prime lens I purchased and I highly recommend it for beginners!
2. Zoom Lenses and Long Distance Lenses
When I first started photographing weddings and family sessions, I thought I needed zoom lenses to “stay out of the way.” I was nervous about getting too close to couples during intimate moments or stepping into the middle of a dance floor at a reception.
But over time, I learned that being physically close is essential for capturing real emotion and authentic moments. Connection happens up close, not from across the room.
Today, I vastly prefer prime lenses over zooms. Prime lenses allow for:
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Lower f-stops, meaning I can achieve that beautiful shallow depth of field (more blur behind my subjects — dreamy!).
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Sharper images, because primes are generally built with fewer optical compromises.
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More intentional composition, because I have to physically move and engage with my subjects rather than standing in one spot and zooming.
Now, I only keep one zoom lens — and it’s strictly for situations where a super-wide angle is necessary.
3. Frills and Extras I Thought I “Needed”
In the beginning, I wasted money on fancy bags, lens attachments, and backup accessories that never made a real difference in my work. I’ve learned that less is truly more: good light, strong connection with your subjects, and the right handful of gear are the real essentials. Everything else? It just adds unnecessary weight (literally and mentally).
Final Thoughts
If I could give my younger self any advice about photography gear, it would be this:
Invest in quality. Get close. Keep it simple.
Your skill, creativity, and willingness to connect will always matter far more than having the biggest or most expensive camera bag. Choose tools that support your vision — and let go of everything else.
I’d love to hear from you: if you’re a photographer, what’s one piece of gear you wish you had (or hadn’t) bought early on? Drop a comment below! Or, check out this instagram reel showcasing my gear:
