Introduction
When I first got serious with my photography, my camera bag was actually a large metal flight case. It was stuffed with various camera bodies, lenses, speedlights (flashguns) and a multitude of other accessories that made sure I was ready for anything.
I suppose on an average photography trip, my ‘carry around’ gear would weigh around 20lb (9kg).
I’ve never wanted to make photography my career, but I did want to enjoy my hobby to the fullest. That meant having EVERYTHING i thought I might need!
Today, my camera bag is considerably smaller. Everything I need is kept in a small shoulder bag.
There are so many options available today, that especially in the beginning, you don’t need to spend loads of money to get yourself a completely suitable kit.
So, what follows is a list of my photography kit.
There’s both cheaper and more expensive versions of the things I use. And I’ve used the cheaper and more expensive options.
Don’t be afraid to try the cheaper options first, then upgrade the things you think you need to.
What’s in My Camera Bag?
My Smartphone
My main smartphone is the iPhone 14 Pro. But, sometimes I still use the Samsung S20 Ultra, because of its longer optical zoom.
My Camera Bag
I’ve tried various ones over the last few years. The one I’m happiest with is a re-enforced, Oxford cloth shoulder bag with front zip section. The one I use isn’t available on Amazon anymore, but the nearest equivalent is THIS ONE.
Lenses
I’ve tried lots of different clip-on lenses and the ones I use now are made by APEXEL. I currently use the 2x Telephoto HD lens and the 100mm Macro HD lens.
Both have 17mm mounting threads, so quickly attach to the Smartphone case. They also come with their own adjustable clip, microfibre cloth and soft storage bag.
Case for Attaching Lenses
The Kase Wooden Phone Lens Case is available for almost all iPhone models, I think they make them going back to iPhone 7. For the Samsung, I don’t really use the external lenses and if I do, I just use the clip provided with them.
If you want to see if there’s a lens attachment case for your smartphone, just search for your Smartphone brand and add ‘for 17mm lens attachment’ in the search. Most smartphone lenses have a 17mm thread.
Lighting
I use the Andoer LED Video Light. But honestly, you could use one of the many LED headlamps available online.
Tripod
I’ve got a Professional Tripod, but honestly, I very rarely use it!
I almost always use my Joby GorillaPod 3K mini tripod, and I’m aware that even this tripod is expensive (it’s over £100). But, places like ebay are your friend when you’re looking for things like this and you could probably pick one a used one for around £20.
Remote Trigger Grip
The trigger grip I use is the Ulanzi CapGrip. Again, there are cheaper options available, but for £20 this grip is well worth the money.
What I like about it, is that I can use it on any smartphone.
Other Accessories
I also carry a lens pen in my bag, and a Hama circular Polarising filter. There’s also spare batteries for the shutter release and an Anker battery power pack.
Final Thoughts
Everything I keep in my camera bag is suitable for me. But, that doesn’t necessarily mean it’s going to be right for you.
My advice, is to use the list above to give you some ideas about what might be useful for your photography. Then shop around.
There are dozens of online stores selling smartphone camera equipment. And I always advocate trying a cheaper version first, then upgrading later on to the things you use often.
Over the years, I’ve spent more money than I care to remember on equipment I only used once, or twice.
So, that’s what’s in my camera bag. What’s in yours?
Steve