When photographing elopements, having the right camera gear can make all the difference in capturing those quick-happening moments and creating beautiful memories for your clients. In this blog post, I will share my top camera gear that I rely on for every elopement, micro-wedding, adventure session and my travels! Including the the amazing new technology of mirrorless camera bodies to a selection of high-quality lenses! I’ll explain why investing in good gear is crucial for delivering exceptional results. PLUS give ya my personal recommendations that I’ve found have helped my business thrive and my photography improve!

*This post contains affiliate links from all of the elopement photography gear I personally recommend!!

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My Elopement Photography Gear:

As an adventure elopement photographer (and avid traveler), I need reliable, top-of-the-line photography gear so I can serve my clients to the best of my ability and adapt to the unique challenges of elopement photography! While the contents of my camera bag have changed over the years, my ultimate goal as an elopement photographer has not. It’s super important that my equipment can hold up on long hikes, through varying lighting and weather conditions, and can adapt with me through each unique elopement!

So here’s a list of all of my elopement photography camera gear!

• Camera: Canon R5 & R6
  • The Canon R5 and Canon R6 are two of the most versatile and powerful cameras on the market. Their high-resolution sensors and advanced autofocus systems allow me to capture every detail and ensure sharp, professional-quality images! That mirrorless focus is FAST and precise. Which is KEY when capturing movement and moments that happen quickly on an adventure elopement!
• Lenses:
  • Canon 28-70mm f/2.0: This lens is my go-to choice for capturing a wide range of subjects and scenes. Its versatile focal length allows me to easily switch between wide-angle and standard focal lengths, while the fast f/2.0 aperture ensures excellent low-light performance and beautiful background blur.
  • Canon 85mm f/1.4: The 85mm focal length is perfect for creating stunning portraits with a pleasing background blur. The wide aperture of f/1.4 allows for excellent low-light performance and beautiful bokeh, making it ideal for capturing intimate moments during elopements.
  • Canon 70-200mm f/2.8: This telephoto zoom lens is essential for capturing distant subjects and compressing the perspective. Whether it’s capturing candid moments from a distance or getting close-up shots of the couple during the ceremony, this lens provides exceptional image quality and versatility.
  • Don’t forget your mirrorless adaptor if you don’t have mirrorless lenses!

Extra Elopement Photography Gear

• Harness: Rose Anvil Harness
  • The Rose Anvil Harness is a must-have accessory for any elopement photographer. It provides a comfortable and secure way to carry my camera gear, allowing me to move freely and quickly while ensuring the safety of my equipment. Plus it’s just super cool and I get tons of comments on it! I also love the hooks it has on it so I can easily hook it to my Osprey backpack.
• Camera strap: Peak Design
  • I’m a huge fan of Peak Design products. The Camera Strap is what I typically take with me on my travels.
• Tripod: Peak Design Tripod
  • I have the Aluminum Peak Design Tripod. While it is quite pricey, it is the best tripod I’ve ever had. I love the design, how simple it is to use, and the sturdiness of it.
• Backpack:
  • For adventure elopements: Osprey
    • The Osprey backpack is designed to withstand rugged outdoor conditions, making it ideal for adventurous elopements. It offers ample storage space for all my camera gear and other essential items. Its durable construction and comfortable carrying system ensure that I can comfortably carry everything I need for a long day of shooting.
  • For regular everyday use: Peak Design & Wandrd
    • For regular everyday use, I rely on the Peak Design and Wandrd backpacks. These backpacks are not only stylish but also highly functional, with customizable compartments and easy access to my camera gear. They provide excellent protection for my equipment while allowing me to stay organized and prepared for any photography opportunity.
• Hard drives: SanDisk or Samsung
  • I absolutely love both of these. They are the fastest, and most reliable hard drives on the market right now (Samsung is the most reliable). They are so small and easy to pack, and they import images so quickly. A photographer’s dream!
• Emergency Kit for Elopements
  • I have learned from experience, that bringing emergency supplies for elopements can save the day. Whether your client forgets something, or the weather throws a curveball. Having these things packed away in your car or backpack can be a lifesaver!

With this meticulously chosen camera gear, I can capture stunning moments and create beautiful memories for every elopement. It can be hard to make such a huge investment in gear..but if you expect your clients to invest in you, it’s key to make sure you have invested in your business! Whether that’s upgrading your elopement photography camera or investing in an elopement photography coach. I can guarantee it will add to your value as a business, and improve the experience you give to your clients!

What Camera Gear is Best for Elopement Photography

So, you may be wondering what gear you really need to photograph elopements. While these are all things that I personally use in my elopement photography business – they may not be all necessary if you’re just starting out! When deciding what camera gear is best for your elopement photography business I will always recommend quality over quantity I recommend focusing on getting set up with a solid camera body (like the Canon R5) and versatile lens (like the Canon 28-70mm f/2.0). And then once your business grows, you can add to your kit! It can seem daunting adding up a list of all the gear on your wishlist. Believe me no one buys it all in one go!

If you are sticker-shocked by those top camera gear prices, I feel ya. Photography is expensive. Don’t be afraid to browse second-hand photography gear options as well. B&H and Adorama have used gear that’s been checked out and tested so you’re not just buying from a stranger!

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When to Buy New Camera Gear

As a photographer, knowing when to invest in new camera gear can have financial benefits and help you stay up-to-date with the latest technology and hopefully save you some money! Here are two opportune times to consider purchasing new equipment:

Holiday Sales

One of the best times to buy new camera gear is during holiday sales. Many retailers offer significant discounts and promotions during Black Friday, Cyber Monday, and other holiday seasons. Take advantage of these deals to save money on your desired camera gear. Keep an eye out for bundle offers and package deals that may include additional accessories or lenses. I recommend keeping an ongoing wish list of your photography equipment needs/wants – and then taking note of upcoming holidays! Rather than just buying things on a whim, add some strategy to making your business purchases (cuz photography AIN’T CHEAP FRIENDS!).

End of the Year for Tax Write-offs

At the end of the year, when you’re looking to maximize tax deductions, purchasing new camera gear can be a wise decision. As a professional photographer, equipment purchases may qualify as business expenses and possibly be eligible for tax write-offs. Consult with a tax professional to ensure you understand the specific regulations and requirements related to tax deductions for camera gear – seriously invest in a CPA as soon as you can for your business!

Remember, while these opportunities can help you save money, it’s essential to assess your current needs and budget before making any purchases. Invest in equipment that will truly enhance your photography and align with your professional goals – don’t stress about just keeping up with the trends and trying to buy every new piece of gear that comes out. A good quality set up can last you a longggg time! And if it doesn’t serve you, don’t be afraid to sell, trade, and upgrade your gear!

For more tips on how to build your elopement photography business, check out my blog on the Top Business Resources you Absolutely Need as an Elopement Photographer