Inside Jamie Love Photography’s Camera Bag: Essential Gear for Portrait Photography
As a professional headshot photographer with over 25 years of experience, I’ve learned that having the right equipment is essential for capturing stunning portraits. Whether I’m in the studio or on location, these carefully selected tools help me achieve the high-quality results my clients love. Let’s take a look inside my camera bag and explore the gear that makes it all possible for me to do the work that I do.
Canon EOS 5D Mark IV Full Frame Digital SLR Camera Body
The Canon EOS 5D Mark IV is a powerhouse in the world of portrait photography. With a 30.4MP full-frame sensor, DIGIC 6+ image processor, and 61-point AF system, it delivers exceptional image quality and precise focus. Its high ISO range ensures superb performance in low light conditions, making it versatile for various shooting environments. It’s also incredibly user friendly!
Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT
The Canon Speedlite 600EX II-RT is my go-to flash for portrait work. Its powerful output and fast recycling times ensure I never miss a shot. The built-in radio transmission provides reliable off-camera lighting, while the zoom head covers a wide range from 20-200mm, giving me flexibility in lighting my subjects. Also if you need a high speed sync, this flash is your best friend!
Gary Fong Flash Diffuser
To soften and diffuse the light from my Speedlite, I rely on the Gary Fong Flash Diffuser. It creates a more flattering and natural-looking light, reducing harsh shadows and creating even illumination across the subject’s face.
Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM Zoom Lens
When I need to capture wider shots with excellent sharpness and minimal distortion, the Canon EF 16-35mm f/2.8L II USM is my choice. Its fast f/2.8 aperture allows for beautiful background blur while maintaining sharpness throughout the frame.
Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM Lens
For portrait compression and stunning bokeh, the Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS III USM lens is a must-have. The fast aperture and image stabilization ensure crisp images even in challenging lighting conditions, making it ideal for both studio and outdoor shoots.
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens
Known for its beautiful bokeh and sharpness, the Canon EF 50mm f/1.2L USM lens is a portrait photographer’s dream. The wide aperture of f/1.2 allows for gorgeous background separation, making subjects pop against a soft, blurred backdrop.
Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L & Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM
Transitioning into the mirrorless world, I’ve added the Canon RF 24-70mm F2.8 L and Canon RF100mm F2.8 L Macro IS USM lenses to my kit. These lenses offer incredible sharpness, versatility, and the RF mount’s benefits, ensuring compatibility with Canon’s latest mirrorless cameras.
Other Essential Accessories:
- Ruggard RC-P18 Rain Cover: Protects my gear from unexpected weather conditions during outdoor shoots.
- Altura Photo Professional Camera Cleaning Kit: Maintains the pristine condition of my lenses and camera body for optimal performance.
- Lowepro Flipside Trek BP 250 AW Backpack: Keeps everything organized and secure while providing comfort during long shoots.
- Feisol CT-3372 Elite Rapid 3-Section Carbon Fiber Tripod & FEISOL CB-50D Ball Head: Stable support for sharp, shake-free images.
- SanDisk 256GB Extreme PRO UHS-I SDXC Memory Card: Ample storage for RAW files and high-speed performance.
- Joby GorillaPod 3K Flexible Mini-Tripod: Offers flexibility in positioning my camera, especially for self-portraits or unique angles.
- Watson LP-E6NH Lithium-Ion Battery Pack: Reliable power to keep shooting without interruption.
Having used and tested numerous pieces of equipment over the years, I’ve handpicked these items based on personal and professional experience. They’ve consistently delivered exceptional results, allowing me to create memorable portraits for my clients. Whether you’re a fellow photographer looking to upgrade your gear or someone interested in portrait photography, I hope this insight into my camera bag proves helpful.
Until next time, keep capturing those special moments!
Please note that the links provided are Amazon affiliate links. When you click on them and make a purchase, it supports my small business and family.
Jamie Salima Love is a FingerLakes, NY and Boston MA based Headshot and Personal Branding Photographer extraordinaire. She has helped thousands of small businesses, brands, and entrepreneurs over her 20 yr career by creating updated photo libraries with stellar imagery. She is available for a multitude of services, whether you’re looking to work with her to simply update your Headshots, or to create an extensive Personal Branding Photography strategy and library with all the bells and whistles she’s got you covered.