Probably the number one question I get asked is: what camera do you use? I feel like my photography set up is finally at a place that I am comfortable with. After years of learning about photography and adapting to the Sony systems, I am excited to show you guys what’s in my camera bag!
If you’re new here, when I first started my travel blog in 2015 I used a Gopro and smartphone, and an old Canon to capture all of my content. In 2018 I was lucky enough to win a SonyA600, which is why I now use the Sony systems. I fell in love with how fast they were, and spend a year with that body before upgrading.
Keep in mind that you don’t have to have the most expensive camera gear to get started with photography. Knowing how to operate a camera can start with your smartphone. It’s pretty incredible what today’s iphone can capture.
What’s In My Camera Bag?
I have used three different Sony bodies over the years. I stick with the Sony system so that I can use the same lens’ without having to entirely switch. It is a preference depending on what brand you want to shoot with, so I suggest renting and going from there!
Sony A7 IV
Currently, this is the camera body that I am using. I upgraded to this body so that I could create video and photo in the same camera body. If your a content creator, I would highly suggest this camera body! The colors straight out of the camera are stunning, and for hand-held, the stabilization is wonderful.
Sony A7ii
When Sony released an upgraded version of their A7 series, the price on this body dropped in half. This is a great time to snag a camera body, or even consider buying new. Speed and dynamics will change the more money you’re willing to spend. This is a great introduction to the Sony system. This was my second camera in the Sony line up that I purchased.
Lenses
Sony FE 24-105mm f/4 G OSS
I just got this lens at the end of 2021, which is my first lens in the Sony Gmaster Realm. It is a wide angle lens, which is great for pulling mountains closer than they appear to the naked eye. I use this lens all the time.
If you’re budgeting, the Tamron lens’ are much more affordable and that is what I used for the last year.
Sony FE 24-70MM/2.8
This is easily my most used and most versatile lens in my camera bag! From hiking to cabin stays, I love using this lens and it sits on my camera.
Sony FE 16-35MM/2.8
This is my most used lens for interior photoshoots. For cabin stays, hotel collaborations, and self portraits on the trail. This lens offers a great wide angle to capture the most of small spaces.
Sony FE 70-200MM F/2.8
This is the lens I am currently saving for, as it is priced at $2,200. I have had the pleasure of using this lens from photography friends and it is immaculate. Not only does the zoom create a beautiful depth of field, the 2.8 is nice for situations like I need it for to focus on a subject next to a background.
Tripod
Manfrotto – Compact Action Smart 61″ Tripod – Black
For the price point, this tripod is create when weight isn’t a concern. It is stable enough to hold my lens and body, and has multiple settings. I capture a lot of my own photographs so this is a vital piece of equipment for me to have.
I would like to own an aluminum tripod eventually as the lightweight option would be nice to have for hiking. Instead I have a smaller travel option for the time being which works perfectly fine.
JOBY GorillaPod 3K Tripod with Ball Head Kit
This Joby tripod is the first one that I purchased. It can be used handheld or wrap it around a tree to hold your camera body (depending on weight). I like using this on backpacking trips as it is compact.
Camera Bag
Peak Design Everyday Backpack 15L
This is the newest edition to my camera set up. I found myself struggling to find the right way to travel with my camera gear safely in a car packed full of adventure gear. I used the classic wrap a puffy jacket around the camera and shove it in a backpack, but now I have this bag. Plus this backpack makes things much easier when I am traveling by airplane! Fits my laptop as well. When I am at home I use the Peak Design camera cube to keep my gear clean of dust and safe of damage.
Camera Clip
Peak Design Capture Cliip
The Peak Design Capture Clip is a great addition to use when I am looking to have easy access to my camera while hiking. The camera clip works on any backpack as it changes sizes. It is reliable for a heavy lens and body, making it accessible for point and shoot.