10 Things to Carry in Your Camera Bag
Photographers always seem to be carrying the entire world with them on their outdoor shoots. Have you wondered how do they know what to carry? If you are a beginner or an amateur photographer, you must be confused about the things to carry in your camera bag. You don’t know what you may need or require in the shoot. That’s why we have compiled a list of basic essentials to carry in your camera bag.
Like cameras, lenses, and shooting styles, camera bags are highly personal and subjective to the photographer. Each photographer has assorted knick-knacks or items he/she carries or needs for outdoor and indoor shoots. They can be related to gear or shooting requirements or just personal items. Many photographers switch the bags depending on the shoot or the location. But the basic few items remain the same despite the location or the style of the shoot. Below is our list of 10 essential things to carry in your camera bag.
Cleaning Cloth- A cleaning cloth is super important for photographers. You need to take care of your equipment and cameras. A good quality cleaning cloth will clear dust, dirt, and moisture from your equipment. Photographers can purchase cleaning cloth specially made for cameras and equipment online or in electronic stores. These are made of microfibers and can be used to wrap your equipment safely to avoid scratches and marks.
Flashlight- Flashlights are handy for outdoor shoots or to focus on the subject in dark. It ensures you don’t drain your phone battery using the flashlight. Some photographers even use flashlights to add additional light to the picture. Many photographers prefer carrying different sizes of flashlights.
Plastic Bags- For outdoor shoots, you need protection from the elements. That’s why photographers carry plastic bags of varying sizes. Sandwich bags or Ziploc bags, garbage bags, and medium-sized bags come handy to protect your equipment and camera. Photographers also use sandwich bags to store batteries, flashlights, and other equipment. The bigger bags such as garbage bags can be used to cover your camera or tripod should it rain.
Mini Tripod- Carrying a full-size tripod isn’t practical or feasible every time. But it is impossible to predict when you may need camera support. This is where a mini tripod is useful. It is light in weight, easy to carry, and does the job of a tripod effortlessly. Mini tripods are amazing at low-light photography and can even provide slow shutter speeds without the fear of shakes or blurs. Plus, you can set it up anywhere as it doesn’t take a lot of space.
Remote Release- A remote release allows you to release a camera’s shutter at the moment you want. You don’t need to physically touch the shutter button, thus avoiding the chance of shakes or vibrations. Wireless remote releases are available for long ranges as well. They are a blessing when you are shooting alone or handling the video as well as being the subject. You can trigger the shutter from behind or front of the lens. They do have a tendency to be unreliable in bright conditions but that’s something you can figure in post production if necessary.
Air Blower- Air blowers are the best way to clean your gear without scratching or damaging it. It is a simple rubber bulb style air blower which releases a powerful puff of air. This is enough to dislodge dust and dirt particles and even grit. Once you have used the air blower, you can clean the rest with a microfiber cloth and cleaning fluid.
Spare Battery- This one is kinda obvious but important. Your camera can run out of battery or memory cards. So carry spare batteries and memory cards with you always. If your camera runs on AA batteries, it’s a good idea to have some lithium ones tucked away in your bag. They are light to carry and powerful and don’t discharge over time.
Rain Cover- Dedicated camera rain covers or ponchos are available in electronic stores or online. These do an excellent job of securing your camera from rain and water. You can also buy cheap plastic ponchos from a pharmacy or general store but special camera covers are always better.
Circular Polarizer- Polarizing filters are important if you are shooting landscapes. They make the colors more intense, foliage seem more vibrant, and increase contrast in clouds. Good quality polarizers don’t come cheap but professional photographers carry one for outdoor shoots and landscape photography.
Gaffer Tape- Gaffer Tape comes useful during all kinds of shoots and professional photographers rarely go without one. You can also carry Sharpies, pens, and rubber bands along with. Various types of tapes are available but most photographers prefer the black colored gaffer tape. You can buy it from any general store or purchase it online.