Why Do Photographers Care So Much About Gear?
I gotta admit, when I scroll through YouTube, and see all of the shiny new lens and camera body reviews, I get an overwhelming urge to change everything I own about twice a month! But the truth is, gear does matter. It can be exciting to see all of the new technology released four or five times a year from all the major camera brands. At the end of the day what's really important is this: "Does your gear allow you to do the job your clients expect you to do?"
Different cameras have different feels. Some cameras are great for video, but not so great for photography. Some cameras take stunning photographs, but lack on the video specs. As a hybrid photographer (someone who shoots both photo and video), it's important that I have equipment that provides top notch images for both. This is why I choose to use Sony Alpha Series cameras for everything that I do. I've used Sony since day one and for everything from wedding photography to corporate photoshoots to headshots to short films. Sony just works, and it works fantastically.
What's Currently In My Bag?
OK, Here's the fun bit:
- Sony A7R IV
- Sony A7 IV (x2)
- Sony 35mm 1.8
- Sony 85mm 1.8
- Sony 50mm 1.8
- Sigma 14-24 2.8
- Sigma 24-70 2.8 (x2)
- Sigma 105 1.4
- Samyang 35-150 2.0/2.8
And yes, I carry ALL OF THAT to every wedding, family photo session, and Nashville portrait studio shoot. What can I say? I'm a maximalist at heart!
So why should a non-photographer care what I have in my bag?
The truth is, this is something you should never have to worry about. That said, in all honesty, it is something that you should always check when you are considering hiring a photographer for an important event! I carry 3 camera bodies in case one breaks. I have multiples of the same lenses. I carry a TON of memory cards. I believe in BACK-UPS OF BACK-UPS OF BACK-UPS. Your photographer should, too.
On your wedding day, the last thing you want to think about is whether or not your photographer has everything they need. I can't tell you the amount of gear that I've broken on a wedding day! In fact, we had one wedding day where so many things broke, that even my wife's SHOE broke! And yes, she did have an extra pair in her car. But you know what? The bride never knew it. She never even suspected anything went wrong. And when she received her final images, she LOVED THEM!
So please, as a photographer, carry more than you need. And as a client, don't hesitate to ask. Your photographer has to have someone to geek out with about that new lens they just got, right?
