5 Products Photographers should consider adding to their kits

Hello Everyone!

I hope you are having a great day so far; if not, the weekend is right around the corner.

As working photographers now, it is not just about your ideas, the clothes, and the makeup. These are just some of the pieces you need. You also need to have the right tools to fulfill your client’s needs as well as your ideas. 

Here is a list of 5 great products you should consider adding to your kit:

1. Pelican Case
2. A good Tripod
3. Sandisk Extreme Pro SD/CF Cards
4. Gaffers Tape
5. Wacom Tablet with grip and glove

Photography is more than just capturing images; it’s an art that demands precision, creativity, and the right tools. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic amateur, investing in the right equipment can significantly enhance your photographic journey. This blog post delves into five essential products photographers should consider adding to their kit. From protective cases to cutting-edge technology, these items are designed to elevate your craft and streamline your creative process.

1. Pelican Case: Safeguarding Your Gear with Uncompromising Protection

A reliable Pelican Case is more than just a storage solution; it’s a fortress for your precious photographic gear. As a photographer, your equipment is your lifeline, and ensuring its safety during transit is paramount. Pelican Cases are renowned for their rugged construction, offering airtight, waterproof, and crushproof protection. Equipped with customizable foam inserts, these cases snugly cradle your camera bodies, lenses, and accessories, safeguarding them from the rigors of travel and adverse weather conditions.

I am in my 8th year in my career, and I have had almost every type of injury you can get on the job. The list goes from getting tendinitis in both hands on all my joints twice in a calendar year to getting a muscle relaxer shot. The Pelican case was something I got to help me pull my equipment around with ease without wearing a backpack or shoulder bag. I have a Pelican 1510 with the added accessory pouches for the inside cover. This case is weatherproof and bull test proof; the military uses these cases to house their rifles. It gives me peace of mind to place all my equipment inside the Pelican case. Since using the case I have not had an injury of any type. 

Benefits: A Pelican Case provides peace of mind, ensuring that your valuable equipment remains unscathed no matter where your photographic journey takes you.

2. A Good Tripod: The Foundation of Stability and Creativity

A sturdy tripod is the unsung photography hero, offering stability and precision that can make all the difference in your shots. Whether you shoot landscapes, portraits, or low-light scenarios, a tripod eliminates camera shake, producing crisp, well-composed images. Look for one with adjustable legs and a smooth ball head, allowing you to achieve various angles and compositions. Invest in a quality tripod that can withstand the demands of different terrains and shooting conditions.

I got advice from one of my photography teachers; he said everything in photography is constantly changing, but investing in a good tripod will last you a lifetime. After I thought about it, it makes sense no one is buying a new tripod every few years, but they are changing their camera bodies often. A tripod is not brand specific; it can be used on any camera system. I have been using mine for 8 years now. I use a Manfrotto tripod with a ball head and a Manfrotto carrying bag.

Benefits: A good tripod empowers you to explore long exposure techniques, capture sharp images, and experiment with creative compositions that require a steady camera.

3. Sandisk Extreme Pro SD/CF Cards: Unleash the Power of High-Speed Storage

In the digital age, memory cards are your canvas, storing the intricate details of your visual stories. Sandisk’s Extreme Pro SD/CF cards are designed for professional photographers, offering lightning-fast read and write speeds essential for high-resolution images and 4K video. With capacities ranging from 32GB to 1TB, these cards provide ample space for your creative endeavors while ensuring your workflow remains seamless and efficient.

It goes without saying that in the digital age backing up your images is the most important thing to do as creators. Photographers are printing less and less, so our “negatives” are our digital assets. That includes where our images go into first, the memory card. I highly recommend Sandisk Extreme Pro SD/CF cards because they have a great durable, and reliable track record. I have had the same 10 cards for the past 6 years, and they have not failed me. 

Benefits: Sandisk Extreme Pro cards enhance your workflow by swiftly capturing, transferring, and editing large files without worrying about buffer overflows or data loss.

4. Gaffers Tape: A Versatile Tool for Creative Control

Gaffers tape is a photographer’s secret weapon, offering boundless utility in unexpected situations. This versatile adhesive tape is designed to be strong yet easily removable, making it ideal for taping down cables, securing light modifiers, or even creating temporary props. Unlike standard duct tape, gaffer tape won’t leave residue or damage surfaces, making it a reliable companion in any shooting environment.

This roll of tape is the most important piece of equipment I take with me. The tape is your best friend if you do not have an assistant. I use it to place flashes in weird places, to hold triggers if I lose the ties, to angle things, etc. I’ve even had to tape a client’s shirt once. They do not leave residue and are as strong as duck tape, as well as reusable. 

Benefits: Gaffers tape empowers you to exercise creative control over your setup, allowing you to finesse lighting, eliminate distractions, and solve unforeseen challenges on the fly.

5. Wacom Tablet with Grip and Glove: Elevating Post-Processing Precision

In the realm of post-processing, the Wacom Tablet is a game-changer. Its pressure-sensitive stylus enables precise control over retouching, masking, and fine-tuning details. Paired with a grip and glove, you can work comfortably for hours, minimizing fatigue and maximizing control. The tablet’s intuitive interface replicates the natural feel of drawing, providing a tactile experience that enhances your ability to bring your creative vision to life.

I have had my Wacom Tablet Pro since I began being interested in photography, but I did not start using it until a year after owning it. It has been with me thru thick and thin editing, so much so every joint in both my hands got swollen. So, in addition to the tablet, I also got a grip and glove to help with the pain. Too much clinching of the pen for an extended period can cause pain in your joints over time. So do use your tablet with breaks and stretches to avoid injury.

Benefits: A Wacom Tablet, along with a grip and glove, grants you unparalleled control over post-processing, leading to more refined and nuanced results that reflect your artistic intent.

Photography is a journey of creativity, innovation, and growth. By equipping yourself with essential tools like a Pelican Case, a good tripod, Sandisk Extreme Pro SD/CF cards, gaffers tape, and a Wacom Tablet with grip and glove, you empower yourself to push the boundaries of your craft. These products enhance your technical capabilities and provide the confidence and freedom to explore new horizons in your photographic pursuits. As you add these items to your kit, you invest in your artistry, ensuring that your photographic journey is fruitful and endlessly inspiring.

Happy Shooting!

<3 Ann