Hey there! Today, I'm spilling the beans on the gear that never leaves my side – the tools that make every photography adventure possible (and don't take up too much space and weight in the bag).
Let's dive in!
As someone who's always on the go, I need a camera that can keep up with my spontaneous shooting style. That's where the Nikon Z series comes in. This mirrorless marvel is compact, powerful, and versatile, making it perfect for capturing everything from intimate portraits to colorful landscapes.
Why it's a game-changer: Because its mirrorless technology offers faster autofocus, in-body image stabilization, and a lighter, more compact design compared to my previous DSLR, providing me with greater flexibility and creative freedom in every shot. Plus: I love the silent shutter - especially when photographing in a monastery or intimate moments.
When it comes to portraits, this lens is my secret weapon. Its wide aperture creates stunning bokeh that adds a touch of dreaminess to every shot. Whether I'm in the studio or out in nature, the 85mm f/1.8 S lens never fails to deliver the best results - after using it for so many years it feels like my eyes are a 85mm lens now. I see everything zoomed in, like I would do through this standard lens.
Why it's a must-have: It's like having a personal storyteller in your pocket, capturing the essence of my subjects with unrivaled clarity and depth.
For those wide-angle landscapes, rooms or architecture I rely on the 14-30mm lens. Its versatility allows me to switch seamlessly between capturing intimate details and expansive vistas, making it the perfect companion for my outdoor adventures. It came in handy in the Himalayas when I wanted to imbed the surrounding in the story - e.g. the monk in his hut with the Himalayas in the back. Tehrefore the monk is not the focus anymore, it is the whole setting.
Why it's essential: From bustling city streets to remote mountain trails, this lens helps me capture the beauty of every moment, no matter where my adventures take me.
Every photographer needs a reliable tripod, and mine is no exception. Whether I'm shooting long exposures or group portraits, this sturdy companion provides the stability I need to capture the perfect shot every time. In all honesty, I mainly carry it with me and then don't use it in the end (because I always take photos in the moment and usually don't have a set up). Still, when I needed one I was more than grateful that I brought it along. For example, once I had a photoshoot in a hotel abroad and the room was without windows - hence, I installed the tripod and could capture the mood on a low shutter speed. Same goes with stars, sunset etc.
Why it's indispensable: From windy mountaintops to uneven terrain, this tripod keeps my camera steady and my shots sharp, even in challenging conditions.
PS: The tripod I use is on sale right now!
When it's time to switch things up and add some motion to my shots, the DJI Osmo Mobile 6 gimbal comes to the rescue. This handheld stabilizer allows me to capture smooth, cinematic footage with ease, whether I'm exploring a new city or chasing the perfect sunset or story.
Why it's a game-changer: With its intuitive controls and buttery-smooth stabilization, this gimbal turns ordinary footage into movie-worthy moments. Plus, it helps me film myself when I have no one else around. Its intelligent features, like ActiveTrack and Gesture Control, make filming fun and effortless.
Last but not least, let's talk about sound. You probably saw in my YouTube videos the little black square clipped to my top. These compact microphones may be small, but they pack a punch when it comes to capturing clear and crisp audio, even in noisy environments (the little fluffy thing can do wonders in noise environments). I use the two-channel one, since I usually clip one microphone on me and one on the other person. This method required then the two channel receiver as well. Since I am happy about this choice, I linked you the set I chose for my Bhutan trip.
Why they're indispensable: From interviews to ambient sounds, these microphones ensure that every story I tell or hear is heard loud and clear. I once interviewed a nomad on top of a hill and it was very windy and I was surprised to hear the crisp results afterwards. Still don't like to hear my own voice though haha. Furthermore, they are super small and light and easy to use.
And there you have it – my top six photography essentials that never leave my side! Let me know what your Top 6 are and if you've tried one of the gadgets above.
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