Travel photography gear guide: what’s in our camera bag

Capturing the essence of a travel experience through photography is an art form that requires the right gear. I’ll cover the essential equipment we carry in our camera bags to help us capture stunning images on our adventures around the world. From cameras to lenses, here’s everything you need to take your travel photography to the next level.

Canon EOS R5 full-frame mirrorless camera:

At the heart of our photography suite is the Canon EOS R5, a full-frame mirrorless camera that delivers exceptional image quality and performance. With its 45-megapixel sensor, fast autofocus and advanced image stabilization, this camera made sure we captured every detail even in challenging lighting conditions. Its 8K video capability also allowed us to create traveling cinematic footage.

Canon 5D IV, our backup camera:

Besides the EOS R5, we always carry a Canon 5D IV as a backup camera. This DSLR camera has been a workhorse for years and is known for its reliability and excellent image quality. In case of any unexpected breakdown or battery problem, a backup camera is essential to ensure that we do not miss a single shot.

Canon EF 24 – 70mm f/2.8 II USM Zoom Lens:

The Canon EF 24 – 70mm f/2.8 II USM is our top choice zoom lens for its versatility and image quality. It covers a wide range of focal lengths, allowing us to capture wide-angle landscapes and portraits with beautiful bokeh. The fast f/2.8 aperture ensures sharp images even in low-light conditions, making it a versatile lens for a variety of shooting situations.

Wide-angle lens:

Wide-angle lenses are a must-have for travel photography, allowing us to capture expansive landscapes and unique perspectives. We often carry wide-angle zoom lenses, such as the Canon EF 16 – 35 mm f/2.8 III USM, which offer excellent sharpness and image quality throughout the entire focal range. This lens allows us to capture magnificent landscapes and architecture, adding depth and drama to our photos.

How to take better photos:

Having the right gear is important, but knowing how to use it effectively is just as important. Here are some tips to help you take better travel photos:

1. Understand composition: Pay attention to the composition of the photo. Use the rule of thirds, leading lines, and framing techniques to create visually compelling images.
2. Master exposure: Learn to control exposure settings such as aperture, shutter speed, and ISO to achieve the desired effect. Use exposure compensation to balance light and capture detail in highlights and shadows.
3. Find unique perspectives: Experiment with different angles and perspectives to add interest to your photos. Lower to the ground, climb to a higher vantage point, or seek out unconventional shooting positions.
4. Capture the moment: Capture often tells the truest story. Be patient and observant, and be ready to capture spontaneous moments of people and their interactions with their surroundings.
5. Edit with care: Post-processing can enhance the impact of your photos. Use editing software to fine-tune exposure, color, and clarity. However, avoid over-editing, which can make your photo look unnatural.

Remember, the most important element of travel photography is enjoying the process and immersing yourself in the moment. The gear I’ve mentioned will give you the tools you need to capture stunning images, but it’s your creativity and passion that bring those photos to life. Grab your camera bag, hit the road, and let your photography tell the story of your travels.