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If you’re thinking of starting a photography business in 2023, you need the right equipment to get started. Each company and niche will have different needs. But there are several basic categories that most photographers will have to consider. This professional photography supplies list includes several categories as you set up and grow your business.
The Photography Industry in 2023Professional photography is in high demand in several industries in 2023. Businesses require professional photos for everything from product pages to social media content. Photographers also produce content for real estate agents, and special events and some even sell images or provide direct services to consumers. There is a steady demand for these services. And many photographers can even take advantage of multiple income streams at once.
Why You Should Consider a Photography BusinessIf you’re thinking of starting a business in 2023, here are some reasons to consider photography:
Multiple ways to make money with photography: Sell photos, offer paid sessions, or cover special events. There are tons of ways to use your skills in different niches.Low barrier to entry: Though you can get a degree in photography, it’s not required. Consider just taking a photography business course online or at a local community college instead.Express your creativity: Photography involves artistic expression. So it can be an ideal business for creatives.Time and location flexibility: Many photographers set their own hours and can take jobs and edit from the locations of their choice.Sustained demand: There’s a high demand for professional photographers in a variety of industries, from event planning to product photography.Essential Professional Photography Equipment ListBefore you can launch your new photo venture, it’s time to invest in quality materials. The exact items you need may depend on your niche. For example, product photography equipment often differs from the items used to shoot portraits. If you’re ready to kick off your photo business, here are some photography supplies to add to your list.
CamerasA quality camera is the backbone of any photo business. Some photographers use just one device with multiple accessories. And others have multiple cameras, like a DSLR and compact digital camera, to use for different occasions. Here are some types you may use:
DSLR cameraCompact digital cameraVideo cameraDrone cameraCamera HardwareOnce you have the camera, you may also need some hardware to complete your setup. Here are some common types of camera hardware to consider:
BatteriesExternal hard driveMemory cardsCamera strapTripodsThe right tripod can stabilize your camera and make it easier to get smooth shots. There are also specialized versions for specific types of shots or videos, like 360 product photography equipment. Here are some different types to consider:
DSLR tripodSmartphone tripodCamera stand360 product photography equipmentPhotography LightingIf you’re shooting indoors or in low-light conditions, you may need additional lighting equipment to supplement your shots. Here are some of the best studio lights for photography and other lighting accessories to consider:
Studio lightsExternal flashReflectorRing lightCamera LensesCamera lenses attach to DSLR and mirrorless cameras to provide a certain look for each shoot. Many photographers use different lenses for various types of shoots, since you want a different look for food photos than you would for landscape shots. It’s also important to ensure that each lens matches your camera. Here are some popular varieties to consider:
DSLR lensesMirrorless lensesWide angle lensSpecial effects lensesFiltersFilters change the appearance of images by slightly distorting what colors or visuals are captured. For example, some create the illusion of a light flare, while others change the color. Here are some popular types:
Polarizing filtersColor filtersUV filtersFlare filtersPhoto AccessoriesThese smaller photo accessories may also come in handy in some niche situations:
Rain coverWaterproof caseRemoteComposition toolBackdropsBackdrops provide a steady base for studio portrait photography or product photos. These products vary widely by size, color, and material. But here are some popular products:
White backdropBackdrop stand with clipsLight boxCollapsible backdropsPropsPhoto props add interest to a variety of photos. Simple cubes are often used to enhance product photography. And silly photo booth props can
Cube photo props setPhoto booth accessoriesGeometric photo propsNewborn photo propsStudio SpaceStudio space can be useful for photographers that take portraits, product photos, or staged photo shoots. This isn’t really a product to purchase, but rather a service to book as needed or to rent on an ongoing basis. Check your local community for lease or on-demand rental options if you don’t have enough space in your home or office.
TransportationMany photography businesses also require reliable transportation to get to and from events or photo shoots. This can include your own personal vehicle or public transit options. However, secure transit is often preferred when carrying bulky and/or valuable photography equipment.
SmartphoneEven if you use a larger professional camera for most of your photos, a smartphone is essential for sharing images and marketing your business. Additionally, many modern smartphones include quality cameras that you can use for a variety of purposes. Some of the best smartphones for photography include:
Apple iPhone src4 Pro MaxSamsung Galaxy S23 UltraGoogle Pixel 7 ProSony Xperia src IIIPhoto Editing SoftwareOnce you take photos, the right editing software can help you polish them. There are a variety of options at different price points and skill levels. Here are some top options:
Adobe LightroomAdobe PhotoshopSkylum Luminar AiCanvaComputerA computer can provide storage space, editing capabilities, and options for marketing your photography business. Here are some popular options for photographers:
Apple Mac StudioApple Macbook ProLenovo ThinkPadMicrosoft Surface BookPhoto PrinterYou may also need a photo printer to provide physical copies of your work to clients or in marketing materials. The following devices provide a high level of quality:
Kodak Dock Plus Instant Photo PrinterHP Smart Tank 7602Canon Selphy Wireless Compact Photo PrinterCanon PIXMA Pro-200Camera Bag and StorageOnce you have all of your photography gear in place, you’ll need a camera bag or storage solution to keep everything safe. Here are some main options for getting your cameras and accessories where they need to go safely:
Camera bagCamera backpackWaterproof caseBag for camera and lensesCleaning SuppliesIt’s also important to keep your professional photography equipment clean. The following camera cleaning supplies can provide a thorough clean or help you while you’re out on shoots:
Camera cleaning kitSensor cleaning swabsLens cleaning pen brushScreen cleaning kitSave with Quality Used Photography EquipmentUsed photography equipment can help you save money when getting your business off the ground. Certain items, like photo accessories, backdrops, and camera equipment can all be purchased new. Just look for sellers with high ratings and clear images of the products you’re purchasing.
What type of camera do most professional photographers use?Most professional photographers use DSLR or mirrorless cameras from the brands Nikon, Canon, and Sony. Popular models in 2023 include the Canon EOS 5D Mark IV, Sony a7III, and Nikon D850.
What is a professional photographer’s most important piece of equipment?A photographer’s most important piece of equipment is a quality camera and lens. The best products vary based on your niche. But these items should be among the first you purchase.
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Image: Envato Elements