What’s in My Camera Bag (and What It Says About Me)
There’s this little moment that happens before every photo session. I’m standing in my kitchen, coffee in hand, double-checking my gear one last time before heading out to meet a family. The sun’s usually dipping low (or just coming up), I’ve got a playlist ready to set the mood, and I’m mentally running through all the joyful chaos that’s about to unfold.
And as I zip up my bag, I can’t help but smile, because what’s in there says a lot about who I am as a photographer (and, honestly, as a person).
📸 The Essentials
Let’s start with the obvious: my Canon camera body and my trusty 35mm and 24–70mm lenses. These are the workhorses that help me chase light, laughter, and all those in-between moments. The 35mm lens is my favorite for the storytelling stuff, the big hugs, the tickle fights, the “real life” that unfolds naturally. The 24–70mm is my go-to when I want flexibility. Perfect for those fast-moving toddlers or the big family groups where every face matters.
And somewhere in there, tucked safely between lenses, is a sweet drawing from one of my little clients. She gave it to me after a session (a stick figure version of me taking her picture in the bluebonnets) and I’ve carried it with me ever since. It’s my gentle reminder that what I do isn’t just about photos; it’s about people, connection, and the little humans who make every session feel like magic.
🎶 THE “I’M-READY-FOR-ANYTHING” ITEMS
I always keep extra SD cards and an extra battery (because the only thing worse than running out of coffee is running out of power mid-session 😅). You’ll also find a small stash of business cards, three pens (because one always mysteriously disappears), and my photography permits for all my favorite Houston spots from Hermann Park to the Arboretum.
There’s also a Bluetooth speaker tucked in there because no session is complete without a little music to loosen everyone up. (If you see me dancing behind the camera, just know it’s 100% intentional.)
✨ THE “JUST IN CASE” KIT
I’ve learned over the years that being prepared for anything is part of the job description. So, I keep Shout wipes for the inevitable grass stain, a pop-up cell phone holder for behind-the-scenes video, and a couple of hair ties that always end up saving the day.
And then there are the little treasures that have found a permanent home in my bag: a tiny disco ball from a past session (because who doesn’t love a little sparkle?), a few fun enamel pins that make me smile, and because I’ve learned that fresh breath and good vibes go hand in hand, you’ll always find a handful of mints in my side pocket.
💛 WHAT IT SAYS ABOUT ME
If you peeked inside my bag, you’d see more than just tools. You’d see how much I care. Every item has a purpose, whether it’s keeping your session running smoothly or making sure we capture those genuine, joy-filled moments.
My camera bag is basically a reflection of how I approach family photography: with intention, creativity, and a whole lot of care. It’s part preparation, part personality, and part “let’s roll with it”.
At the end of the day, what matters most isn’t what’s in my bag, it’s what I get to create with it. Memories that tell your story, one beautiful, imperfect, love-filled frame at a time.
💬 THINGS I PROBABLY SHOULDN’T ADMIT ARE IN THERE…
- A piece of confetti from a branding session that's been there for months 🎉
- Sticky notes that I always think I might need...and never have
- 17 hairpins (none of which are mine)
- A crumpled receipt for coffee… from 2022 ☕
📍 IF YOU’RE LOOKING FOR A HOUSTON FAMILY PHOTOGRAPHER…
Whether we’re shooting at Terry Hershey Park, Memorial Park, or a cozy in-home session, my goal is always the same: to tell your family’s story in the most authentic, joy-filled way possible.
Let’s make magic together one beautiful Houston sunset and one memory-filled camera bag at a time. ✨
