I would like to preface this article with the statement that none of the links provided in this article are affiliate links or in any way monetized. The items listed here are from my own camera bag and past Amazon orders
Are you new to photography or videography and looking to take your skills to the next level? Having the right camera equipment can greatly enhance your photography experience and help you capture stunning images or videos. In this article, we’ll explore the top five pieces of camera equipment that every novice photographer should have in their arsenal. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to upgrade your gear, these essentials will set you on the right path to achieving your goals.
A Reliable DSLR or Mirrorless Camera:
Investing in a good-quality camera is the first step towards improving your photography. Both DSLR (Digital Single Lens Reflex) and mirrorless cameras offer excellent image quality and versatility. I personally shoot with a Sony Alpha 7R II that I picked up pre-owned for a great deal! Don’t sleep on the certified refurbished listings as they can save you tons on your initial purchase. I use this camera primarily to capture stunning, sharp photos but have recently added some attachments that make videography a breeze!
Versatile Lens(es):
Once you have a camera, the next essential piece of equipment is a versatile lens or a lens set. Consider investing in a lens with a focal length range of roughly 18 – 75 mm. That should cover a wide variety of locations and subjects for shooting. I wouldn’t invest in a prime lens, like a 50mm or 35mm until you’re looking to get more into specialized photography such as portraits or low light photography.
Mid-Tier Directional Microphone:
A microphone is a must-have accessory for any videographer, novice, or professional. Audio quality is debatably as important as video quality. Look for a microphone that’s got a good directional focus so when filming a subject only what they say or do in frame is captured. Additionally, features like a high-pass cut-off or wind guards can be helpful in reducing the time taken to edit audio in post-production.
Field Monitor:
This one may seem like an item you’d save for later, but after implementing it into my arsenal of equipment, all I could say is, “I wish I had bought this sooner.” Being able to fully see the scene you’re shooting from a variety of angles has helped me live through the moments I captured on the screen. Before utilizing the field monitor, I constantly found myself distracted or having misaligned photos and crooked videos. Only, when I opened my laptop with the footage did I manage to see all these errors and have to reshoot what I had captured. The field monitor also helps in a handful of other ways such as exposure monitoring, color monitoring, and sharpness checking. It’s a powerful tool that greatly increases your skill and ability while out in the field.
Camera Bag:
To protect and organize your gear, a good camera bag is essential. Look for a bag that offers ample space to accommodate your camera, lenses, tripod, and other accessories. It should have padded compartments, adjustable dividers, and sturdy construction to ensure your equipment remains safe during transportation. Consider factors such as comfort, weather resistance, and easy accessibility when choosing the right camera bag for your needs. If you’re looking for an awesome high-quality bag, I recently just upgraded to a Peak Design Backpack and will refuse to use anything else. It holds so much equipment and keeps it safe, that my only struggle with the bag is the sheer weight its able to hold. Carrying around all your equipment is tempting but picking the essentials will help you in the long run.
By investing in these top five camera equipment essentials, you’ll have a solid foundation to kickstart your photography journey. Remember, the equipment is only a tool; your creativity and vision are what truly matter. So, go out, explore, and capture the world through your lens. With practice and passion, you’ll continue to grow as a photographer and create stunning images that reflect your unique perspective. Happy shooting!