When I first started in photography, I’ll admit—I had my fair share of “gear envy.” The allure of shiny new equipment was hard to resist, and I made plenty of purchases that didn’t add much value to my work. Over time, I realized that having the right tools matters far more than having all the tools.

Today, every piece of gear in my bag serves a specific purpose. If I upgrade, it’s because the new item brings a quantum leap—whether in the quality of what I deliver or the efficiency of my process. Otherwise, I stick with what works until it wears out. This philosophy keeps me focused on what’s important: producing exceptional results for my clients.

What follows is a breakdown of the tools I rely on most, along with the reasons they’ve earned a place in my kit.

Lighting & Power

Lighting is critical in photography, and for my needs, the Godox AD600 lights strike the perfect balance of performance and cost. After my trusty Phottix strobes gave out, these became my go-to option. To power up on location, I keep the EcoFlow River portable power station handy. It’s saved countless shoots where access to outlets was limited.

When it comes to shaping light, I exclusively use Phottix modifiers. They’re incredibly versatile, durable, and feature innovative designs that make them a joy to work with. Whether I need soft, even lighting for portraits or more dramatic directional light for commercial projects, Phottix modifiers always deliver. They’re an essential part of my kit, even if they didn’t make it into the photo.

Cameras & Lenses

At the heart of my gear are my Nikon Z9 and Z8 cameras. The Z9 is my workhorse, responsive and robust, while the lighter Z8 is a great backup (and increasingly a favorite). For studio work, I turn to the Fujifilm GFX 50 II medium-format camera, which delivers exceptional detail and depth.

My Nikon lens kit includes the versatile 24-70mm, the dependable 70-200mm, and the portrait-perfect 85mm. For creative work, I still love my Sigma 35mm f/1.4, even though it requires an adapter. Each of these lenses plays a key role in my workflow.

Tech & Tools

Incorporating technology has been a game-changer for client interaction and efficiency. My iPad Pro connects directly to my cameras for real-time proofing, saving time and ensuring clients get exactly what they want. The DJI Mic 2 makes audio for social media videos seamless, and my Insta360 cameras capture behind-the-scenes content that adds value to my projects.

I also rely on smaller essentials like my Sekonic light meter, color checker, and high-speed blower—tools that might seem minor but can make a big difference in the final product.

My Chubby cables are another small but vital addition. These high-speed, durable cables keep my gear connected and charged, and their extra length makes them incredibly versatile for on-location work.

For quick recharges, I keep an Anker portable battery in my kit. It’s compact, reliable, and perfect for topping up smaller devices like my phone or camera accessories during a shoot.

Support & Efficiency

Good support gear is just as important as cameras and lenses. My Benro tripod is lightweight, durable, and easy to adjust on the fly. On larger sets, walkie-talkies keep communication clear and efficient. My trusty Mavic 2 drone adds a dynamic perspective to certain shoots, whether for events or creative commercial work.

Final Thoughts

This gear isn’t about showing off—it’s about delivering quality and consistency to my clients. Over the years, I’ve moved away from chasing the latest gadgets and focused on tools that genuinely improve my work. If it doesn’t help me create better images or save time, it doesn’t make the cut.

Whether you’re a photographer or in another field, I hope this post inspires you to think critically about the tools you rely on. It’s not about having the most—it’s about having what works. What’s in your toolbox? I’d love to hear about the tools that help you do your best work—drop a comment below!