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What’s in My Camera Bag: Photography Gear I Actually Use

When I was starting out in photography in my late teens and early twenties, the conversation around gear felt 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’d 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 camera choice was a trade secret.


Thankfully, a few kind photographers did answer when I asked about a shot I loved. Those conversations shaped my early kit. I started with a Nikon, switched to Canon (where I really learned manual mode), and eventually landed on Sony, which has become my preferred digital system. Along the way, I also grew my film camera collection and discovered a few gems I’ll never part with.


This kit didn’t appear overnight. It’s taken me years to build. For a long time, I had just one camera and one lens -- my Sony A7IV and 35mm f/1.4, which is still my ride-or-die. If you’re just beginning your photography journey, here’s the biggest truth I can offer: the right gear is the gear you actually know how to use. You can create incredible work with just one camera and one lens.


Below, I’m breaking down what’s in my bag today, and why I love each piece.


Kathryn Ann Waller Photography Gear

(Note: I often source my gear from KEH, a trusted used gear reseller. I’ve linked most of the gear through their site. These are affiliate links, which means I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.)


Photography Gear Overview:


Cameras + Lenses

  • Sony A7IV: My main workhorse. Fast, sharp, and dependable. It handles low light beautifully and has carried me through countless shoots.

  • Sony 35mm f/1.4: My favorite lens of all time. It’s versatile, intimate, and captures scenes exactly how I see them. If I could only have one lens forever, this would be it.

  • Sony 50mm f/1.2: Dreamy bokeh and incredible depth. I reach for this when I want portraits or editorial shots with dimension and softness.

  • Sony 24–70mm f/2.8: My go-to zoom lens when I need flexibility, especially for events or travel where swapping lenses constantly just isn’t possible.

  • Contax T2: A legendary point-and-shoot film camera. Compact, sharp, and always in my bag.

  • Contax G2 + Contax G1: My favorite rangefinder film cameras. The G2 is my go-to for full control with a lightweight feel, while the G1 is the more affordable version. Both are paired with my beloved Contax 45mm lens.

  • Pentax 645n: A medium format film camera that creates rich, timeless images with stunning dynamic range.

  • Pentax 85mm f/1.8: Paired with the Pentax, this lens pulls me outside my usual style, but the results are always worth it.

  • Leica M10-P: My forever camera. A digital rangefinder that forces me to slow down, focus manually, and be intentional.

  • Zeiss 50mm (for M10-P): Beautiful glass for a beautiful camera. The pairing is magic.

  • Leica Q: A full-frame compact Leica that I primarily use for weddings, especially with flash on the dance floor. It’s small, discreet, and surprisingly powerful.


Flashes & Lighting

  • Profoto A10: Compact and reliable. My favorite on-camera or off-camera flash.

  • Profoto Trigger Connect: Lets me control all my Profoto lights wirelessly.

  • Profoto B10x: My larger strobes for high-end commercial work and studio setups.

  • Hobolite Mini Kit: A portable continuous light, perfect for travel or quick creative setups.


Bags

  • Wandrd Camera Bag: Durable, practical, and stylish. My go-to backpack for travel.

  • Rains Side Bag: Sleek and waterproof, ideal for lighter shoots when I just need one camera and lens.

  • Dagne Dover Bag: My everyday tote that can still handle a camera setup.

  • Pelican Suitcase: Nearly indestructible. My hard case for flying with gear. TSA-approved and stress-proof.


Accessories


Final Thoughts

My gear has evolved alongside my business, my creative style, and the seasons of life. If you’re building your photography kit, my best advice is this: don’t rush. Master what you have first, then invest in what’s next. And if you’re on the fence about a piece of gear, rent it first. I love using Aperturent for rentals.


Above all, remember that photography is less about the perfect setup and more about the way you see. Gear is just the tool.


If you have questions about my kit or if you’re a photographer wanting to expand your craft, I’d love to hear from you. I’m launching mentorship programs soon for photographers who want to refine their skills, build their business, or get more confident behind the camera. Send me a note if you’re interested.


xx,

Kathryn Ann

 
 
 

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