The Best Camera Gear for Photographers: My Top Picks & Regrets
Introduction
When I was a kid, I loved creating. I'd set up a little easel and paints in the living room and paint blobs for hours. I'd drag my sister out of the house to do photoshoots with our mother's iPad. Literally any chance I had to be creative, I took it. It didn’t matter what I used to make something—I was a scrappy little artist. I'd use notebooks and pens from Dollar General, thrift all my props, and still to this day, I cannot buy anything full price for the life of me.
When it comes to the best camera gear for photographers, we can constantly be looking at the "next best thing." And as soon as you buy that thing, there's something better out there that catches your eye. It’s the dragging reality of a digital creative in the digital age.
I started just as a lot of you have—with a little Canon Rebel and two kit lenses. I had no idea what any of the buttons did, but I knew I could capture things even better than my iPhone 8. Once I started getting serious, I binged YouTube channels like Grainy Days and Joe Greer. I knew I had to choose a brand, and the arguments were heated out there. Canon? Sony? Nikon? Nah. I went with the superior: Fujifilm. I know, I know. Don’t get mad at me. I’m cool and quirky and basically an indie hipster—I shoot Fuji. 😎
After shooting on little disposable point-and-shoot cameras for about a year, I knew I wanted everything I created to have a "film look." I inherited film cameras from my grandmother that had all those knobs and buttons. I wanted to learn what they meant and what they did. But I couldn’t dare to spend a hundred dollars for every mistake I made. So instead, I spent $2,000 for a Fujifilm X-T4! (Secondhand, of course.)
Best Camera Gear for Professional Photographers in 2025
Making the move to a specific brand can be overwhelming. To be honest, you just have to close your eyes and pick one. With where we stand in tech today, most camera brands offer amazing options, so it's about personal preference and what you plan to create. The biggest thing to remember? You're not just choosing a camera; you're choosing a system.
Each camera brand has its own lens mount system. For example, my Fujifilm X-T4 uses an X-mount, meaning I can only use X-mount lenses unless I use a converter. If you switch brands, you might need all new lenses, which gets expensive fast. Sticking with one brand means an easier time expanding your kit and saving money in the long run.
What’s in My Kit?
1️⃣ Fujifilm X-T4 – My Everyday Workhorse
This is my BABY! A crop sensor mirrorless camera that packs a punch. I chose the X-T4 over the X-T5 mainly for the fully articulating screen instead of a tilt screen. I love the manual dials—they helped me learn exposure settings hands-on. This camera is compact enough for day bags but powerful enough for pro work. Plus, the built-in film simulations are incredible—I barely edit my photos because I can dial in my look in-camera.
2️⃣ My Go-To Lenses
Fujifilm XF 50mm f/1.0 – My primary lens for almost everything. Insane bokeh, low-light beast, and incredibly sharp.
Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 – My favorite zoom lens, great reach, built-in IBIS for smooth video.
Fujifilm XF 23mm & 35mm – Small, compact, great for street photography.
Rokinon 85mm f/1.4 – Fully manual focus, super crispy, fun for creative shooting.
3️⃣ My Must-Have Accessories
Cross-body camera strap – Saves my back and keeps my camera easily accessible.
VILTROX 6000mAh LED Light – A pocket-sized beast. Bright, color-adjustable, hot-shoe mount, APP CONNECTIVITY (just found this out as I’m writing!).
Camera backpack – Having an actual camera bag with compartments is a game-changer.
Sharpie & Protein Bar – Essentials. Never underestimate the power of labeling gear and staying fed.
Photography Gear I Regret Buying (And What I’d Choose Instead)
Not everything I’ve bought has been a win. Some things just didn’t work for my style or workflow. Here are a few things I regret:
Cheap phone mounts for BTS filming – They break way too fast. Invest in a sturdy, adjustable one.
Budget camera bags – They never have enough room. I wish I’d bought a larger pro-level bag earlier.
Random accessories I never use – If it doesn’t fit in my day-to-day kit, it’s probably unnecessary.
Essential Gear for Freelance Photographers: My Recommendations
For anyone building their kit, here’s my advice:
📸 Beginner: Get a mirrorless camera with a nifty fifty lens (50mm f/1.8). Learn the basics first.
📸 Intermediate: Start investing in fast prime lenses and a solid zoom lens. This is where your quality jumps.
📸 Pro: Build out versatile lighting and a backup camera for reliability.
My Wishlist: What’s Next for My Kit?
OSMO Pocket 3 – Perfect for behind-the-scenes & vlogging.
18-50mm zoom lens – i am in need of something wider for tight spaces.
Super telephoto lens – For all those far away shots I just cannot quite get
follow me on instagram to see what i end up creating with next!!!
Final Thoughts: It’s About the Craft, Not the Gear
You might feel overwhelmed by all the options. But the truth is, learn with what you have. Push your creativity before chasing expensive gear. Your best investment is time—not just money.
If you’re not sure about a purchase, rent gear first or ask a local photographer if you can try theirs. And always check KEH, eBay, and Facebook Marketplace for secondhand deals. The right kit isn’t about having the most gear—it’s about having the right tools for YOU.
Happy creating.
-aves
