Best Camera Gear

TOP CAMERAS FOR PHOTO & VIDEO

Here is a condensed list of the exact cameras that I currently shoot with and why I love them.

Looking for lenses? Keep scrolling for my top recommendations.

Best All Around: Canon 1DX Mark II

In case you’re curious, this is the camera that I use on a daily basis. It is heavy and large, but I’m willing to sacrifice a little bit of comfort in order to achieve such incredible image and video quality. My favorite feature about this camera is it’s amazing ability to follow focus as I shoot video. I find this feature invaluable as I am constantly tracking quickly moving kiddos.

Affordable + Quality: FujiFilm X-T4

Another solid choice for those looking to shoot with something a little more affordable, compact, and yet still great quality. My husband shoots with this camera, so I can say with confidence that it’s awesome. It shoots 4k video, handles low light well, and is incredibly fast for a mirrorless camera. The size is also really nice – much smaller than a typical DSLR, so it is a great choice for traveling and on the go shoots.

Best for Video + Photo: Canon 7D Mark IV

An excellent choice for entry level DSLR video and photography. This was the camera I started with and used for years, even for commercial gigs. Highly recommend it as a solid entry level choice.

Best for Affordable Photo: Canon 5D Mark IV

This is the camera I used in between owning the 7D and my current 1DX. Perhaps the most popular choice out there among lifestyle photographers, this camera handles both video and photo exceptionally well. It’s a good mid-range price point that is still affordable for professionals or serious hobbyists. Can’t go wrong with this one.


TOP LENSES FOR PHOTO & VIDEO

Arguably your lens is just as, if not more, important than your camera body.

Think about it – you’re spending a good amount of money for a great camera, but if you’re shooting with a kit lens you are simply missing out on any great quality that camera offers.

The quality of the glass that the image travels through to reach your camera is just as important as the camera itself.

What I’m trying to say is – don’t skimp on your lens choice. Save up and buy 1 or 2 staple lenses that will suit most of your shooting needs.

Another great thing about quality lenses is that they are a longterm investment. The technology doesn’t change as quickly as the camera body, so you can purchase a great lens and keep it for a number of years.

Here are a few of my favorites:

Best All-Around + Most Versatile for Variety of Shooting Styles: Canon 24-70mm

If you can only pick one, pick this one. It is a bit bulky, but it is such a great lens that I still won’t travel without it. This is the kind of lens that you can keep on your camera at all times and capture just about anything. Since it’s a zoom lens, you can capture a variety of angles without changing lenses. Close-ups, wide shots, portraits, landscapes, you name it.

Best for Documentary + Portraits: Canon 35mm

This is my favorite lens for low light scenarios and the best for capturing that airy, dreamy look. Because the aperture is so wide, you can do a lot with this lens. It’s my go-to for indoor newborn shoots, as well as shots of my littles around the house. 35mm most closely mimics what your eye sees, so it’s great for the real-life, documentary feeling.

Best for Portraits, Close-Ups, Soft Backgrounds: Canon 50mm

This lens is like the icing on the cake – the best icing you’ve ever had. Yes, it’s expensive. No, it’s not the first lens I’d recommend. BUT, it’s worth its weight in gold. If you truly want to expand your photography and videography into the next realms of creativity, then this is the best.

It takes some practice to master this lens, because the aperture is so wide. However, once you do – your photos will be so light, airy, and beautiful.

Best Travel, Compact Lens & Best Gift Idea: Canon 40mm

I LOVE this compact little lens. It’s my everyday, go-to choice, especially if we are out and about. It’s also my favorite for trips and vacations. Because my camera body is so stinking big, this lens helps me manage some space and size when we are traveling. And for the price of this lens, it is super sharp and fast. I highly recommend adding this to your main kit. Great gift idea since the price is so affordable.


Thanks for checking out a few of my favorite things. Not only have I tested all of these products, I stand behind each and every one of them. As an Amazon affiliate, I do receive compensation for mentioning my favorite resources, however any commission that I earn comes at no cost to you. I hope you end up enjoying some of these helpful tools as much as I do!