My Favorite Photography Gear & Why :

As a photographer, having the right gear can make all the difference in capturing stunning images. Over the years, I've transitioned through various cameras and lenses, each playing a crucial role in my development as an artist. Here’s a look at the gear I currently use and why I absolutely love it!

-Camera Body: Canon R6 Mark II

At the heart of my photography is the Canon R6 Mark II. This mirrorless camera is a game-changer for me. It features dual memory card slots, which is a lifesaver during busy shoots—it provides peace of mind knowing that my images are stored securely in two places. The autofocus system is incredibly fast and reliable, making it perfect for capturing those fleeting moments in any environment. I love the low-light performance, allowing me to shoot in darker settings while maintaining image quality. 

-Lenses: Versatile Options for Every Shot: I primarily use a 24-70mm or 35mm lenses! There versatility makes them invaluable for wedding shoots and portraits alike. For my backup camera, I have the Canon R with a 50mm lens. The 50mm is a classic choice and has a fantastic depth of field. I started my journey with a Canon Rebel T7 paired with a 50mm, and it was a fantastic starter camera :)! The simplicity and quality of the 50mm lens made it easy to learn the fundamentals of photography hence why it is called the “nifty fifty”.

-Lighting Equipment: Godox Flashes and Lume Cube:

Lighting can make or break a photograph, and for that reason, I trust my Godox flashes. They are reliable, powerful, and easy to use. Additionally, I keep a Lume Cube in my kit. This compact and powerful light is perfect for creating dramatic effects or adding some fill light in tricky situations. Its portability makes it easy to carry around, and the adjustable brightness levels are incredibly useful for fine-tuning my lighting setup.

-Crucial Accessories: Harness and Fanny Pack: Among my essential accessories, a reliable camera harness is a must. I use the Corio leather double (or single) camera harness, which distributes the weight evenly across my shoulders. This is especially important during long wedding days, where I often have multiple lenses to switch between. It allows me to move freely and focus on capturing beautiful moments without straining my body. On wedding days, I also rely on a HUGE fanny pack to hold extra batteries, memory cards, and even tissues for those emotional moments (we all know how tear-jerking weddings can be!). I also keep a phone mount to attach to the top of my camera, allowing me to capture behind-the-scenes moments if I don’t have a second shooter. This has become a fun way to document the day from my perspective and share it with my clients.

I’ll leave you with this each piece of gear I own has been carefully chosen based on my needs and experiences. I encourage all photographers to invest in gear that suits their style and needs. It's surprising how the right equipment can elevate your work and enhance your creative vision.

-Chey