I get asked often about my gear and what I shoot with. So here it goes. Here is all the professional-level equipment I carry in my bag.
My Camera Bodies
- Canon EOS R6 II – I went mirrorless a few years ago and have no regrets. This is my main camera.
- Canon 5D Mark IV – My backup body. I always bring it in case of an emergency.
My Lenses
- Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L – A classic lens. I use it often for newborns and when I want a super shallow depth of field. It creates that dreamy fuzzy background parents love. I like it, but I’m not as obsessed as some photographers are with prime lenses. (A prime lens doesn’t zoom – one solid piece of glass usually means sharper images.)
- Canon RF 28-70mm f/2.8 – This is my workhorse. If anything happened to this lens, I’d replace it immediately. It’s sharp, reliable in low light, and gives me flexibility when shooting weddings or busy kids. I don’t always have the option to move my feet, so having zoom built in is huge.
- Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS – This lens is amazing outdoors. The bokeh (blurry background) is some of the prettiest you’ll find. I don’t use it constantly since I need to stand further back, but when I do pull it out, the results are always stunning.
- Canon EF 100mm f/2.8 L IS USM Macro – Another prime lens. Perfect for newborn details like eyelashes, lips, and tiny toes. Parents always love these close-ups.
- Canon Mount Adapter EF-EOS R – This adapter lets me keep using my EF lenses on my RF mount camera with no loss of quality or functionality. When I switched to mirrorless, this made the transition smooth and saved me from replacing all my favorite EF glass at once.
Other Essentials in My Bag
- Extra memory cards
- Backup batteries
- Lens filters
- Business cards
- A little candy to bribe the kiddos if needed (works like a charm!). Smarties and mini marshmallows are great options.
My Studio Gear
I don’t just rely on what’s in my bag. My studio is set up with professional tools that help me create consistent newborn photography results:
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Einstein 640 Studio Flash with Triggers – Paul C. Buff Einstein 640 – I use this for reliable, clean studio lighting. It allows me to shape the light exactly how I need it.
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Varipole Support System – Impact VP-712SP Deluxe Varipole – This holds my large backdrop papers in place. It’s sturdy and gives me flexibility for different setups.
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Custom Wooden Backdrops – I have a couple of hand-built wooden backdrops: one in white wood and one stained dark. They add variety and texture to newborn and milestone sessions.
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Newborn Posing Stand – Paloma Shell Round Stand – This posing stand is designed specifically for newborn sessions. It helps me safely and comfortably position little ones for those curled-up, cozy poses parents love.
How I Choose My Gear
I don’t own every lens and gadget out there. What I do own is top of the line and perfect for my style. If I’m curious about something new, I’ll rent it before buying. Sometimes gear looks great on paper but doesn’t fit how I shoot. Renting keeps me smart about my investments.
Quick Tip for Beginners
If you’re new to photography, the most important thing when purchasing a lens is the f-stop. You want a low f-stop. It lets in more light and creates that creamy background blur. My advice: buy fewer items, but invest in higher quality. Less is more when it comes to building your bag.
Wrapping Up
As an Indianapolis photographer, my job is to deliver beautiful, consistent, professional newborn photography and family photography. My gear helps me do that. While equipment doesn’t make the photographer, having the right tools allows me to work efficiently, handle any situation, and give my clients the best experience possible.
