Before I go out to any photoshoot, I make sure I bring everything that I may need. I may need different things depending on the type of shoot, but here is a list of things I always bring with me.

• Camera (duh!)

• Backup camera: you never know when your main camera will break or fail

• Phone: good for framing or getting ideas

• Wide angle lens: 10-20mm

• Prime lens: 35mm

• Telephoto lens: 55-200mm

• Extra SD cards

• Tripod and Gorillapod

• Continuous lighting (and mounts): the lights that are continuously on

• Strobes (and mounts): the lights that “flash”

• Extra batteries: for camera and strobes

• Camera battery charger

• Soft boxes: the square boxes and umbrellas that soften the light

• Diffuser/Reflector: that folding disk thing that has shiny sides and black/white sides

• Extension cord

• Multi-outlet/Power Strip

• Hat and gloves: if it’s an outdoor shoot and it’s cold

• Wraps/blankets/pillows/bean bag: for newborn shoots

• Space heater: also for newborn shoots

• Dog/cat treats: definitely not for newborn shoots, but for pet portraits

• Pocket calendar/planner

• Pen

• Business cards

I try to keep what I bring with me only what I need, because photography equipment can get quite heavy. I tend to find that keeping things simple makes the creative process easier and more fun. Don’t get me wrong, equipment and gear is important, especially with bigger shoots, but don’t overthink or overcomplicate it.

ΔAbbi