Beginner Gear Recommendations

  1. Camera Body: The foundation of your photography kit is, of course, the camera itself. As a beginner, it's important to choose a camera that strikes a balance between affordability and functionality. Entry-level DSLR (Digital Single-Lens Reflex) or mirrorless cameras offer excellent options for beginners. If you are on a very tight budget the Canon EOS Rebel T7 is a very entry level camera that will get you through. If you have a slightly bigger budget and want to mirrorless, I would recommend the Canon EOS RP (full-frame camera=more $) or the Canon M50 (crop sensor camera=less $) depending on your budget. If you want to go mirrorless + full frame and you happen to have a higher budget for a starter camera I would recommend jumping right into a Canon EOS R. This was my first camera and it has all of the bells and whistles. It puts out professional quality yet doesn't quite cost as much as high end professional cameras normally do. If you are interested in wedding photography in particular just note that these as well as most beginner cameras will not come with dual card slots which is highly recommended to have in the wedding photography industry.
  2. Lens Selection: Once you've chosen your camera body, investing in quality lenses is crucial for capturing stunning images. While kit lenses that come bundled with cameras are an okay starting point, consider purchasing just the body and adding on a versatile prime lens like a EF 50mm f/1.8 (if the camera you went with is compatible with EF lenses) or RF 50mm f/1.8 (if the camera you went with is compatible with RF lenses). You want a lens that has a maximum aperture of 1.8 if you can help it because this will give you creamy backgrounds and professional results right off the bat.
  3. Memory Cards: Never underestimate the importance of reliable memory cards for storing your precious photos. Opt for high-capacity SD or microSD cards with fast read and write speeds to accommodate the large file sizes of modern cameras. Brands like SanDisk, Lexar, and Samsung offer dependable options that ensure you never miss a shot due to insufficient storage space. This Lexar Professional card is compatible with the cameras listed above as well as most beginner cameras.
  4. Tripod: Stability is key when shooting in low light or capturing long exposure shots. A sturdy tripod is an indispensable tool for any photographer, providing a stable base to eliminate camera shake and ensure sharp, blur-free images. Look for lightweight yet durable options that are easy to transport and set up, such as this Joilcan tripod or this Eicaus tripod. Both are great options!
  5. Camera Bag: Safely transporting your gear is essential, especially when you're on the move. Invest in a well-padded camera bag with compartments to organize your camera body, lenses, and accessories efficiently. Look for options with adjustable dividers, weather-resistant materials, and additional storage pockets for essential items like spare batteries and chargers. This Tarion camera backpack is a perfect budget option with a laptop compartment, tripod straps + a waterproof cover.