I want to start by saying that I’m a firm believer that camera gear does not make a photographer.  I, myself, have photographed with a number of different cameras through the years and can attest to the fact that it’s nearly impossible (and in some cases, it IS impossible) to discern what camera was used to create what photograph.  I have seen photographs taken with the highest quality gear that look like simple cell phone shots, and I have seen photographs that I was SHOCKED were taken with a cell phone.  Some fantastic examples of phone photography can be found in the “Phone Photography” category of the immensely popular Shoot & Share contest.  If you’d like to see some amazing work, take a look at that contest!  You can check out previous years’ work or vote in the currently-running contest.  A warning, though-it’s incredibly addicting!

Now that I have made that disclaimer, I’m going to tell you what I carry in my bag!  I’ve used a wide range of photography gear over the years, from a little Nikon Coolpix point-and-shoot to an old Minolta Dynax 5000i film SLR camera, to a Canon T2i and Nikon D3300 (both being entry-level DSLRs), to my current setup.

What camera I use is probably the most-common question I get.  I primarily photograph weddings, so while I have to carry a range of items to capture every moment, I also have to consider weight and carrying all of those items through a whole day!  For that reason, I consider myself a minimalist as far as photography gear goes.

For weddings, I carry two camera bodies.  My two main choices for cameras are my Nikon D750 and D500.  One will usually have a long lens for zoom, my 70-200mm f2.8, and one will have a short lens for wider shots, my 24-70mm f2.8.  The 70-200 is by far my favorite lens! I love being able to capture close moments without being all up in my clients’ kool-aid.  My bag will also have a 90mm macro lens for ring shots, and at least two flash for reception lighting.

For senior, family, engagement, and any other session, or even just walking around Canon City, I’ll only carry one camera body.  My D750 is my main choice for these types of sessions.  My 24-70mm f2.8 is my go-to lens for portraits, but I’ll have my 70-200mm f2.8 in my bag, just in case I want a little more zoom.

Now that you know what’s in my bag, sound off in the comments on what you use!  Or, if you’re curious what gear can be used to achieve a specific shot, ask in the comments below.