When you have been a photographer for over 15 years, you are sure to have gone through quite a few trials and errors with the products that you have used. And when you find the ones that make your life easier and saves you time and headaches, they’re sure to become a part of your essentials list. Below you will find my Top 10 All-Time Favorite Photography Essentials that I have come to love over the years and must-have for this business.
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Holdfast Camera Strap
I purchased my Holdfast Camera Strap when I was 8 months pregnant with my first child, and it was a lifesaver for my back! It saved me that portrait season and a lot of trips to the chiropractor. I haven’t looked back since!
2. Think Tank Photo Airstream Camera Bag
My Think Tank Photo Airstream Camera Bag has been with me for well over a decade and in countless countries. The quality, durability, and ease of use is superior to many other camera bags out there. Plus it’s designed to fit airplane overhead compartments and has a safety lock on it should someone try to steal it.
3. Gaffers Tape
Having Gaffers tape is a must in the photo/video industry and I would consider it to be an imperative piece to have packed at all times. Heck, I’ve even used it around my house in a pinch. The many uses of Gaffers tape is like Crisco…it can fix anything!
4. MacBook Pro
I speak Mac. enough said!
5. Adobe Lightroom
I was first introduced to Lightroom in the early stages of my wedding photography career. It made culling, organizing, and editing thousands of photos a dream. Now it’s my default photo software that I edit in. Then Photoshop for any extensive retouching.
6. PPA: Professional Photographer of America Membership
I can’t tell you how valuable the PPA has been to me and my business. Their Business resources such as contract templates, forms, sales tools and Insurance coverages such as data loss and indemnification insurance, the PPA has my back. Also, the education resources are extensive and their annual Imaging USA conference is a must to attend!
7. Planoly
One of the most easy-to-use apps that allows me to visually design, plan, and post my Instagram feed. Planoly has become a backbone on how we plan out what we’re going to talk about for the week ahead.
8. Squarespace
Squarespace was a game-changer for me as I could never understand WordPress. I love the ease of use, beautifully designed templates that don’t look like templates, and their customer service online chat is awesome.
9. Old Navy Stretch Tech Jogger Pants
These pants are great because they’re lightweight, are more presentable than leggings, and have pockets!
10. Fanny Pack
I decided to finally bring back the fanny pack in my wardrobe. Sure, it’s been a good 30 years, but now it’s cool. (wink!) It’s all about functionality when on the job!
And there you have it! My Top 10 All-Time Favorite Photographer Essentials that make my life as a photographer so much easier! Leave a comment below to tell me about your favorite photo essentials, I’d love to hear!
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