When I was starting out photography in my late teens/early 20s, I found the conversation around camera gear… overwhelming at best, discouraging at worst.
On one side, there was an avalanche of information, endless specs, reviews, and “must-haves” that made me feel like I would never have enough. On the other, there was a strange sort of gatekeeping. Some photographers didn’t want to share what they used, as if their choice of camera was a trade secret.
A few kind photographers did answer when I asked them about a shot I loved, and those conversations shaped my early kit. I started with a Nikon, switched to Canon which is where I really learned manual mode and eventually landed on Sony, my preferred digital system. I have also grown my film camera collection and found some that I really love.
This kit didn’t appear overnight. It’s taken me years to build, and for a long time, I had just one camera and one lens, my Sony A7IV and 35mm f1.4, which is still my ride-or-die. If you’re at the beginning of your photography journey, know this: the right gear is the gear you know how to use, and you can create incredible work with just one camera and one lens.
Here’s what’s in my bag today, plus a quick note on why I love each piece.
*A quick note, I often get my gear from KEH, a trusted used reseller. I have linked most of the gear using their website.
Cameras + Lenses
Sony A7IV – My main workhorse. It’s fast, sharp, and handles low light beautifully
Sony 35mm 1.4 – My favorite lens of all time. Versatile, intimate, and perfect for capturing scenes exactly how I see them.
Sony 50mm 1.2 – Incredible depth and dreamy bokeh for portraits, editorial work, and detail shots.
Sony 24–70mm 2.8 – My go-to zoom when I need flexibility, especially for events or travel where I can’t switch lenses constantly.
Contax T2 – A compact point-and-shoot film camera with legendary sharpness. I use this all the time.
Contax G2 – My rangefinder film camera for when I want full control but still a lightweight setup.
Contax G1 - A cheaper but still great version of the G2.
Contax 45mm Lens - This is my preferred lens for my G2 or G1.
Pentax 645n – A medium format film camera that gives me rich, timeless images with incredible dynamic range.
Pentax 85mm f/1.8 - Lens I have on my Pentax. It is a little more macro than what I usually shoot but I love it on the Pentax camera.
Leica M10p- The Leica M10-P is a digital rangefinder, meaning you focus manually through a split-image view rather than looking directly through the lens. This is my favorite camera I have ever owned and will own it forever.
Zeiss 50mm - This is what I pair with my M10-P right now. Beautiful glass, beautiful everything.
Leica Q - My Leica Q is a full-frame compact camera that combines stunning image quality with a timeless design. It is a good beginner Leica and I use it primarily for weddings with my Leica flash. I get a lot of fun dance floor pics with this camera.
Flashes & Lights
Profoto A10 – My on-camera or off-camera flash for quick, reliable light in any setting.
Profoto Trigger Connect – Lets me control my Profoto lights wirelessly
Profoto B10x – My larger strobes for high-end commercial shoots and studio setups.
Hobolite Mini Kit – A portable continuous light for travel shoots or quick creative setups.
Bags
Wandrd Camera Bag – My durable travel backpack that keeps gear safe while still looking stylish.
Rains Side Bag – A sleek, waterproof bag for lighter shoots or when I just need a camera + lens.
Dagne Dover Bag – My everyday tote that can still fit a small camera setup.
Pelican Suitcase – The ultimate hard case for traveling with gear — nearly indestructible and TSA-approved.
Accessories
Dust Blower – Essential for keeping my lenses and sensors dust-free.
SD Cards - I like the SanDisk Extreme Pro memory cards. Don’t ever buy these from Amazon! I recommend B&H, Walmart or Best Buy.
SD Card Holder – Keeps all my memory cards organized and protected.
Film Roll Holder – Organizer for my film stocks while traveling.
Lens Cloths – Always in my bag — clear glass is non-negotiable.
SD Card Labels – Helps me track which cards are empty, in use, or ready to back up.
Tether Cord – For connecting my camera directly to a laptop during shoots, perfect for client previews.
Peak Design Aluminum Tripod - I don’t use a tripod much for my work but I really love this one
Final thought: My gear has evolved with me, my style, and my business over time. If you’re building your kit, don’t rush, master what you have, then invest in the next thing that you have been wanting. I also recommend renting before buying if you are trying to decide on something. I like renting from Aperturent which you can find here. Let me know if y’all have any questions… I am always here to answer!
Also, I am launching mentorship programs in the next few weeks for photographers hoping to expand their craft and learn more. Please send me a message for more information!
xx,
Kathryn Ann
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Awesome list! Thank you for sharing. I’ve been meaning to get a dust blower too, def a nice basic necessity! Do you use any filters or hood caps to protect your lens?