What’s in My Bag? Photography Gear
Discover my travel photography gear: Sony a7R V, versatile lenses, and essential accessories for capturing stunning moments on the go.
As a travel photographer and blogger, my camera bag is my lifeline. It’s not just a collection of gear—it’s a carefully curated setup that reflects a decade of learning, experimenting, and adapting to the demands of capturing the world’s beauty while keeping my backpack light. Over the years, I’ve transitioned from a simple point-and-shoot to a full-frame mirrorless system, balancing weight, functionality, and quality. In this article, I’ll take you through the contents of my camera bag, why I chose each piece, and how they help me create high-quality content without breaking my back. From the Sony a7R V to a lightweight tripod and a trusty drone, here’s the gear that fuels my adventures.
The Evolution of My Gear
My journey began with a Sony RX100, a compact point-and-shoot that sparked my love for photography. It was small, easy to carry, and perfect for a backpacker like me who prioritized mobility. As my skills grew and my blog demanded more professional content, I upgraded to the Sony a6500, an APS-C camera that offered more control. Eventually, I moved to the Sony a7C, a compact full-frame camera, before landing on my current workhorse: the Sony a7R V. Each step was a lesson in balancing quality with portability, a principle that still guides my choices today.
As a hybrid shooter, I switch between photos and videos constantly. My gear needs to handle landscapes, portraits, wildlife, and low-light scenes while fitting into a single backpack. After years of trial and error, I’ve trimmed my kit to the essentials: a high-resolution camera, three versatile lenses, a lightweight tripod, and accessories that enhance my workflow without adding bulk. Here’s a deep dive into what’s in my bag and why it works for me.
My Camera: Sony a7R V
The Sony a7R V is the heart of my setup. It’s the most advanced camera I’ve ever owned, and its capabilities have transformed how I shoot. With a 61-megapixel full-frame sensor, it delivers unparalleled detail, allowing me to crop images heavily without losing quality. This is a game-changer for travel photography, where swapping lenses in the field isn’t always practical. The camera’s APS-C mode crops to 24 megapixels, still sharp enough for most uses, reducing the need for extra lenses.
The a7R V shines in both photo and video. It records 4K at 60fps with minimal crop and can even shoot 8K for projects needing extra resolution. Its AI-powered autofocus tracks subjects effortlessly—perfect for fast-moving wildlife or bustling street scenes. The in-body stabilization lets me shoot handheld at slower shutter speeds, a must for low-light conditions like sunsets or dimly lit markets. The 4-axis articulating screen is another standout, allowing discreet hip-level shooting to blend into crowds.
At $3,898 USD, the a7R V isn’t cheap, but its versatility justifies the cost. It’s a professional tool that handles everything I throw at it, from sweeping landscapes to intimate portraits. After a year of use, it’s become my favorite camera, and I expect it to serve me for years to come.
My Lenses: Versatility Meets Portability
Lenses are where the magic happens, and I’ve settled on three that cover every scenario I encounter on the road. Each is chosen for its balance of performance, weight, and focal range.
Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II
The Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II is my go-to lens, mounted on my camera 80% of the time. Its focal range covers wide-angle (24mm) for landscapes and tighter shots (70mm) for portraits and product photography. The fast f/2.8 aperture ensures sharp images in low light, whether I’m shooting a cityscape at dusk or a cozy café interior.
Weighing just 690g, this lens is a significant improvement over its 900g predecessor, the original 24-70mm GM. Sony’s updated optics deliver crisp, vibrant images, and the compact design makes it a joy to carry. At $2,298 USD, it’s a premium investment, but its versatility eliminates the need for multiple lenses. For budget-conscious photographers, the Sigma 28-70mm f/2.8 ($899 USD) or Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 G2 ($899 USD) are lighter alternatives, though they sacrifice the 24mm wide end.
Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II
For landscapes and architecture, the Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II is my weapon of choice. Its 16mm ultra-wide focal length captures expansive vistas and intricate building details, while the 35mm end is perfect for street photography. The f/2.8 aperture excels in low-light environments, like the interiors of churches or mosques, which I frequently photograph.
At 547g and 111.5mm long, this lens is remarkably compact for its capabilities. I switched from the Sigma 16-28mm f/2.8 (450g, $899 USD) because the 28mm end felt limiting, often forcing lens swaps. The Sony’s wider range and superior optics make it worth the $2,298 USD price tag. Paired with the a7R V’s high-resolution sensor, I can crop images without losing detail, adding even more flexibility.
Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM II
The Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM II handles portraits and wildlife, replacing my older Sigma 85mm f/1.4 and Tamron 70-300mm f/4.5-6.3. At 1,045g, it’s lighter than the combined weight of those two lenses (1,200g), streamlining my kit. The f/2.8 aperture performs well in low-light settings, like concerts or indoor events, where my Tamron struggled.
This lens also supports Sony’s teleconverters, extending the focal length to 280mm (1.4x, $548 USD) or 400mm (2.0x, $548 USD). I carry the 1.4x teleconverter for occasional wildlife shots, like on safari, though the 2.0x version sacrifices some sharpness. Priced at $2,798 USD, this lens is a hefty investment, but its versatility and performance make it indispensable.
Lens Comparison Table
| Lens | Focal Range | Aperture | Weight | Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sony FE 24-70mm F2.8 GM II | 24-70mm | f/2.8 | 690g | $2,298 |
| Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM II | 16-35mm | f/2.8 | 547g | $2,298 |
| Sony FE 70-200mm F2.8 GM II | 70-200mm | f/2.8 | 1,045g | $2,798 |
| Sigma 28-70mm F2.8 | 28-70mm | f/2.8 | 470g | $899 |
| Tamron 28-75mm F2.8 G2 | 28-75mm | f/2.8 | 540g | $899 |
My Drone: DJI Mini 2
Aerial photography was a late addition to my toolkit, mainly because I dreaded adding weight to my bag. The DJI Mini 2 changed that. At just 249g, it’s barely noticeable in my backpack, yet it delivers stunning 4K video and 12-megapixel photos. Its OccuSync transmission ensures reliable connectivity, and automated features like QuickShots make capturing cinematic footage effortless.
The Fly More Combo ($599 USD) includes three batteries, extending flight time to about 90 minutes—plenty for a day of shooting. While newer models like the DJI Mini 4 Pro ($759 USD) offer upgrades, the Mini 2’s price-to-performance ratio keeps it relevant. It’s perfect for capturing sweeping landscapes or unique angles of cityscapes without compromising my lightweight ethos.
My Secondary Camera: DJI Osmo Pocket 3
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is my backup camera for timelapses and creative shots. Its 1-inch sensor outperforms most action cameras in low light, and the built-in mechanical gimbal ensures smooth footage while walking. I use it for hyperlapses, motion lapses, and discreet street shots, freeing up my main camera for other tasks.
At $519 USD, it’s a compact powerhouse that fits in my pocket. While I don’t vlog, its vlogging capabilities make it versatile for future projects. It’s become an essential tool for capturing dynamic footage without the bulk of additional gear.
Essential Accessories
Accessories are the unsung heroes of my setup, keeping my gear organized, powered, and clean. Here’s what I carry:
Sirui Traveler 5CX Carbon Fiber Tripod
Weighing just 1kg, the Sirui Traveler 5CX is my go-to tripod for low-light and long-exposure shots. It extends to 136.5cm and collapses to 31cm, fitting easily in my backpack. At $179 USD, it’s a budget-friendly alternative to pricier options like the Peak Design tripod ($599 USD). Its contoured legs enhance handling and storage, making it ideal for travel.
NiSi Swift ND Filter Kit
The NiSi Swift ND Filter Kit ($400 USD) includes an ND16 4-stop filter, Black Mist 1/4, and adapters. Its quick-switch system lets me stack filters without screwing, and the natural color retention minimizes post-processing. These filters enhance my landscapes by controlling light and adding cinematic effects.
Langly Tactical Camera Strap
The Langly Tactical Camera Strap ($69 USD) is both stylish and functional. Its wide nylon design distributes the weight of my a7R V and 24-70mm lens comfortably, even during long shoots. Langly’s vintage aesthetic aligns with my love for hipster gear, and their Premium Leather Strap ($89 USD) is a great alternative for a classic look.
Sony Wireless Remote Commander
The Sony RMT-P1BT ($79 USD) is a compact Bluetooth remote for self-portraits and long exposures. Its reliability outshines cheaper third-party options, like the JJC remote that failed me. It’s a must-have for solo travelers.
Nitecore USN4 Pro Battery Charger and Sony NP-FZ100 Battery
The Nitecore USN4 Pro ($49 USD) charges two Sony NP-FZ100 batteries ($78 USD each) simultaneously, especially when paired with a quick-charge adapter. I carry one spare battery to ensure I never run out of power during a shoot.
Baseus 65W Wall Charger
The Baseus 65W Wall Charger ($39 USD) is a compact, collapsible charger with two USB-C and one USB-A port. It fast-charges my camera batteries, phone, and MacBook Air, making it a versatile travel companion.
Sony Tough SD Card
Sony Tough SD Cards (64GB, $99 USD) are UHS-II, Class 10, U3-compliant, with fast read/write speeds. Their durable, waterproof, and dustproof design ensures reliability in harsh conditions.
Samsung T5 SSD 2TB
The Samsung T5 SSD 2TB ($279 USD) is my external drive for backups and on-the-go editing. Its compact size and speed make it perfect for processing high-resolution images.
Cleaning Kit
A rocket blower and lens cleaning cloth ($19 USD) keep my sensor and lenses free of dust and smudges, essential for shooting in dusty or humid environments.
My Camera Bag: Langly Alpha Globetrotter
The Langly Alpha Globetrotter Camera Backpack ($249 USD) ties everything together. Its vintage two-stripe design is stylish, but its functionality seals the deal. The bottom half features a customizable camera insert that holds my a7R V, three lenses, DJI Mini 2, Osmo Pocket 3, and accessories. The deep insert accommodates tall lenses like the 70-200mm, while the top half stores travel essentials like jackets and snacks.
Side pockets hold my tripod and water bottle, and the front pocket keeps accessories accessible. At 1.2kg, it’s lightweight yet durable, striking the perfect balance between form and function.
Gear Organization Chart
Why This Setup Works for Me
This gear reflects my priorities as a travel photographer: lightweight design, versatility, and reliability. The Sony a7R V’s high-resolution sensor and advanced features reduce the need for extra lenses, while the compact lenses keep my bag manageable. The DJI Mini 2 and Osmo Pocket 3 add creative flexibility without significant weight. Accessories like the Sirui tripod and Langly strap enhance functionality, and the Alpha Globetrotter backpack organizes everything efficiently.
Total weight? Around 5.5kg, including the backpack. It’s a far cry from the 8kg kits I carried in my early days. This setup lets me hike, explore, and shoot for hours without strain, all while producing professional-grade content. Whether I’m capturing a sunrise over a mountain range or a candid moment in a bustling market, this gear has me covered.
Final Thoughts
Building this kit took years of experimentation, from lugging heavy DSLRs to embracing lightweight mirrorless systems. Each piece serves a purpose, honed by countless trips and lessons learned. If you’re a travel photographer looking to refine your setup, prioritize versatility and portability without compromising quality. My kit isn’t perfect for everyone, but it’s the result of a decade of chasing the perfect balance. What’s in your bag? Let me know in the comments—I’d love to hear about your gear and how it fuels your adventures.
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