What’s in My Camara Bag

Photography
Written By Martin Lortz

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In the Bag

2023

 

"What photography gear do you use?" is one of the most common questions I hear. 

I am not immune to likewise thoughts and do enjoy browsing web pages showcasing other photographers' camera bag contents. It is always good to keep up to date on what is working for whom.

I, however, am more of an "if it's not broken, don't fix it" type of person and parts of my kit might be considered dated by today's new is better standards. That said, the best gear for you is not necessarily the shiniest but what produces the results you are looking for daily. 

Here we go, the not-so-secret contents of my camera bag.

The Bag

If we are talking camera bags, let us start there. My go-to bag is the Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW. A tough bag that holds everything I need and is comfortable on my back for extended periods while being active. My favourite thing about this bag is that I can access my camera via the top or side opening while the bag is strapped to the back of my motorcycle, where it spends most of its time. 

My Lowepro ProTactic BP 450 AW in it’s favourite spot.

Primary Camera - Canon EOS 5D Mark IV DSLR

Today's mirrorless cameras look sweet, but the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV still does as I wish every time I reach for it. Considered one of the most well-rounded and complete DSLRs, suited to various subjects, from landscapes to sports and wildlife. I'm in no hurry to upgrade.

Pros:

  • Very good image quality, excellent from RAW files

  • Excellent high ISO performance

  • Fast autofocus

  • Good battery life

  • Rugged, weather-sealed build

  • Reasonable price new, and even better used

Cons:

  • Dual memory card slots use different formats. I don't have time to deal with that.

Lenses

Lenses are another area where my needs outweigh my wants. Fast F2.8 lenses are every photographer's dream, but I can get by with F4 lenses and appreciate the less weight, smaller size and lower cost. Understanding the limits of your gear and knowing when to depend on Image Stabilization, when to push the ISO or when to put it on a tripod will solve most photo challenges that need the speed of an F2.8 lens.

  • Canon RF 24-105mm f4 L IS USM - this lens is on the camera, probably 90 percent of the time. Crisp optics, excellent build, and optical stabilization.

  • Canon EF 70-200mm f/4 L IS USMve this lens. It recently replaced the 2.8 version that finally called it quits after many years. Excellent autofocus and image quality, smaller, lighter, and cheaper. 

  • Canon EF 50mm f/1.8 STM - small, fast, good image quality, a must-have in any camera bag.

Shot with Canon EOS 5D Mark IV - Algoma, Ontario

Second Camera - Canon EOS M6 Mark II 

This is my first foray into mirrorless cameras. As an APS-C-sized camera with a 32.5MP CMOS sensor, the Canon M6 Mark II serves two purposes: a backup to the DSLR and my go-to camera when the adventure calls for minimal gear. I enjoy this camera for its compact size, packability and high-quality images.

Lenses

  • Canon EF-M 15-45mm f/3.5-6.3 IS STM - a kit lens that does the job.

  • Canon EF-M 22mm f2 STM - excellent images in a tiny package. As a zoom lens user, I will say, I do enjoy the challenge of a prime lens. A day out and about with just the Canon EF-M 22mm f2 STM makes you see photo opportunities in new ways.

Shot withy Canon EOS M6 Mark II - Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Action Cam - Insta 360 Go 2

I am not a filmmaker and resisted pushing the record button for a long time. That said, I can't deny the need for some sort of video device in today's visual environment. The tiny no-fuss Insta360 Go 2 is a camera that's surprisingly capable of a lot. Easy to operate and edit with the 360 app, it has served me well, capturing social-media-worthy POV images and short video clips.

Shot with Insta 360 Go 2

Drone - DJI Mini 2

The DJI Mini 2 has been in my camera bag for over a year now, and while I like what it offers, I have struggled with fitting it into my workflow. Getting the drone shot takes a time commitment that I can't seem to fit into my on-the-go work style, definitely something I need to work on.

Shot with DJI Mini 2 - Algoma, Ontario.

Bits and Ends

 
Martin Lortz
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