Camera Gear - Complete List
These are the cameras and gear that I am currently running to shoot my content and capture the memories of my adventures. I try to keep this list constantly updated to accurately reflect what I have, use, and recommend.
Table of Contents
Video Gear
Most of my video creations are run and gun style video such as vlogs or more action based cinematic video so I primarily shoot with compact action cameras.
360° Action Camera
360 Cameras are unique tools that offer amazing perspectives and a lot of flexibility when editing. I am currently using the Insta360 X4 which is a cutting-edge action camera that redefines the capabilities of 360-degree videography. It offers 8K resolution at 30 frames per second, capturing stunningly detailed footage. This is my go-to camera for specialty shots.
Replacement Lenses
The Insta360 X4 lenses can be replaced without the need to send the camera in for warranty work. This is a great feature as the lenses unavoidably protrude out from the body of the camera on both sides leaving them vulnerable. It is also an action camera, and action can often lead to damage. The LICHIFIT Replacement Lenses are high quality and nice to have on hand if needed.
Compact Action Camera
As a run and gun video creator, compact action cameras are my main tool. The GoPro Hero series of cameras are the gold standard in action cameras. Several other very capable challengers have arrived in recent years, but I have been on the GoPro journey since the beginning and they continue to meet my needs. I currently have several GoPro models in service including: Hero 8’s, 9’s, Max360, Mini 11, and Hero 12’s.
I keep one Hero 12 set up on a stick as my primary narration or vlog camera. I dedicate a second GoPro as a POV camera often worn on my helmets and typically with the Max Lens Mod installed. Additional GoPro’s, usually my older ones are used for action shots, unique mounting, higher risk action, and even timelapse sequences. I use my Hero 11 Mini for my FPV drones, and my paragliding chase cam.
Max Lens Mod
The GoPro Max Lens Mod widens the lens angle of the GoPro making it great for shots where you want to bring in more of the scene. It’s great for POV footage and also allows the ability to lock the horizon for silky smooth action shots depending on the action. I use the Max Lens Mod on my helmet cam for activities such as Paramotoring, and Skiing to capture more of the scenery and increase my options during edit.
Media Mod
The GoPro Media Mod is a versatile accessory designed to transform the GoPro camera into a more advanced content creation tool. Its biggest advantage is reducing ambient noise and increasing voice audio. I started using the Media Mod with the GoPro Hero 9. This quickly became my main method of shooting narration type shots. For run and gun style videos like vlogging the Media Mod has been a hit. I keep my main GoPro setup with the Media Mod at all times to shoot my primary content, and use the others for my unique shots and B Roll.
GoPro Swivel Clip
The GoPro Magnetic Swivel Clip is very useful for putting the action cameras in unique places and capturing interesting angles and perspectives. This is great for B-Roll shots to spruce up edits such as clipping the camera to skis or a snowboard when on the lift, or walking to or from the vehicle. The clip is very strong, and the 360 degree rotation allows you to angle the camera wherever you need to for the shot. I have even used this through my shoe laces as a paragliding camera to shoot a 3rd person view of some glides from my shoe’s perspective.
GoPro Bite Mount
This mount may seam silly at first, but it really is useful. Its great for any POV action shots. The Floaty is removable when not needed or if its not compatible with the GoPro you plan to use with the mount. My favorite use for this is pairing it with the above mentioned Magnetic Swivel Clip Mount. On the opposite side of the bite is a standard action cam clip which allows it to mount on the 360 degree rotational mount of the Magnetic Swivel Clip. This packs a serious punch because you now have a small, lightweight, and extremely versatile mount. It can be clipped for unique B Roll perspectives as mentioned above, but can also be rotated quickly and used as a POV camera. I keep a GoPro dedicated to this package as my one size fits all B Roll camera which allows me to shoot more on the fly without having to stop and change cameras or mounts as often.
4 in 1 Floating Selfie Stick
I often favor an extendable Tripod Selfie Stick for my main storytelling camera. This is the setup that I primarily pair with the Media Mod. It can be used as a monopod or selfie stick, but also folds out into a tripod when needed. This can be useful for handsfree shots. The 4 in 1 Floating Selfie Stick takes the versatility of this up another notch with its water friendly capabilities minimizing chances of losing the camera during water activities, and also offering a unique platform for shooting underwater shots. If I am only bringing one camera, it is most likely a GoPro mounted to this 4 in 1 Floating Selfie stick giving me the best all around options and versatility.
GoPro Shorty
The GoPro Mini Tripod is a small, pocket-sized tripod with a single short telescoping section. It can be used for many of the same activities as its larger counterparts but is a much better companion for situations where you are on the move with limited gear. It can literally be tossed into a pocket! I like to keep it with me for vlogging or B-Roll when doing activities where I am not bringing along my backpack with extras such as hiking or day tours when traveling. I also use it from time to time with a “leave behind” GoPro to capture a time-lapse of the sky when I’m out doing something else.
GoPro 3-Way Grip Arm Tripod
The 3-Way GoPro Tripod is the king of versatility. It can be a solid grip or monopod for shooting B-Roll. It has a unique and flexible extension arm that can put the camera in favorable positions for vlogging, and it also has a tripod feature for stationary shooting or time-lapsing. The 3-Way Tripod is incredibly valuable but I admittedly use it more as a standby option due mostly to the fact that I currently use multiple GoPro’s at a time and pre set each for specific purposes. If your running one camera, the versatility of the 3-Way Tripod is untouchable.
High Speed SD Cards
The PNY 64GB Class 10 U3 V30 microSD cards are an excellent choice for use with GoPro and Insta360 action cameras, particularly for those who prioritize both performance and value. With a read speed of up to 100MB/s and a write speed of up to 90MB/s, these cards are well-equipped to handle high-definition photography and 4K Ultra HD videography, ensuring smooth recording and playback experiences. When we hear about cameras glitching and failing on us, its most often an SD card related issue. These PNY Elite-X Series SD Cards have been flawless for me.
SD Card Carrying Case
Weather resistant and shockproof, this case can accommodate up to 36 memory cards, including 24 micro SD cards and 12 standard SD cards, allowing you to organize and transport a large number of SD cards efficiently. This capacity is particularly beneficial for professionals who need to manage extensive data during shoots or projects. It works out very well for travel or longer gaps between hard drive dumps, and I very much enjoy the peace of mind of having several additional cards easily accessible at all times.
Solid State Hard Drive
Portable hard drives are a great place dump content and start projects after shoots or adventures. The SanDisk 2TB Extreme Portable SSD is an excellent choice. This solid state hard drive is small, compact, lightweight, extremely fast, and very durable making it a perfect choice for media storage on the go.
Hard Drive Protective Carrying Case
The SanDisk hard drive is a solid state drive making it far more durable and reliable than the hard drives of the past, but having a protective travel case can help ensure the longevity of the device and makes it more convenient to keep it together.
Photography Gear
Canon Rebel DSLR Camera
I often shoot photography with my phone, but if I have the option I definitely prefer to bring my Canon Rebel DSLR Camera. Mine is the T5i body which has been replaced with the 80D. The Canon 80D is an outstanding camera that offers all the professional features a photographer can ask for. Its also great for shooting HD video and offers a flip out screen. Paired with the right lenses (for narrow focal lengths) it can be a force for shooting cinematic video, and studio work such a interviews that my other video camera options can’t compete.
This camera bundle includes my most used lens, the 18-135mm. The 18-135mm lens offers a broad focal length range, making it suitable for a variety of shooting scenarios, from wide landscapes to detailed portraits. It also has an advanced autofocus system that is great for video work or high-speed continuous shooting.
Telephoto Lens
Lenses can be expensive, and bulky to manage. I try to keep this to a minimum if I can. The 18-135mm mentioned above can handle just about all of my photography needs and is compact enough to store on the camera in most bags. A great compliment to it is a telephoto lens. Telephoto Lenses are big and heavy, and used for more specialized photography such as shooting sports, wildlife, and astrophotography so they don’t go on every adventure, but are pretty sweet to have for those special occasions. I have the Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 Contemporary Lens. This lens is offers excellent value compared to its counterparts typically priced under half of its competition. The ability to reach out from 150mm to 600mm is incredible for shooting wildlife and most sports photography where you won’t be very close to your subjects. I use this lens to mostly shoot wildlife and beautiful closeups of the craters of the moon. It’s also been great for capturing content of my paragliding buddies!
Len Filters
Lens filters are essential tools for serious photographers, providing significant value by enhancing image quality and expanding creative possibilities. This filter kit covers a bit of everything (e.g., ND, polarizing, UV) for different shooting conditions.
The Neutral density (ND) filters are the most commonly used, and allow you to control exposure by reducing light entering the lens. This enables longer exposure times in bright conditions, facilitating creative effects like motion blur in water or clouds. The Polarizing filters deepen blue skies, reduce reflections, and increase color saturation in images, making them particularly useful in outdoor photography. The UV filters protect the lens from scratches, dust, and moisture, ensuring that the front element remains clean and functional. I keep the UV filters on my lenses at all times unless switching to one of the other specialized lenses. This kit also offers some magnifying lenses for macro photography effects.
A light pollution filter is designed to improve astrophotography and visual astronomy by selectively blocking wavelengths of light associated with common sources of light pollution. It targets yellow and orange parts of the spectrum (575-600nm), which are common in sodium vapor lights used in cities. It also Improves contrast, making stars and galaxies appear brighter against a darker background. This filter is extremely nice to have for shooting the stars or galaxy shots of the Milky Way or Andromeda.
Camera Tripod
A tripod offers a stable platform for the camera, significantly reducing the risk of camera shake. This is especially important in low-light conditions when you need longer exposure times, or when using telephoto lenses such as the above mentioned Sigma 150-600mm , where even minor movements can lead to blurry images.
I am currently using the GEEKOTO 79" Carbon Fiber Camera Tripod Monopod. This carbon fiber tripod is lightweight (3.4 lbs) yet strong, and supports up to 26.5 lbs of gear. It folds down compact for easy travel even able to fit securely on my backpack, but can extend out to 79”. The tripod can be converted into a monopod and used for low-angle shots with its reversible center column. The top features a 360° ball head with an Arca-type quick release plate for smooth, stable shooting.
Wireless Shutter Remote
Using a wireless remote allows photographers to trigger the camera's shutter without physically touching it, which helps prevent camera shake. This is particularly beneficial during long exposures or when shooting with slower shutter speeds, ensuring sharper images. This wireless remotes from Pixel Pro comes with additional features such as an intervalometer for time-lapse photography, bulb mode for extended exposures, and the ability to control the camera settings remotely. I mostly use this for astrophotography.
Astrophotography Sky Tracker
A Sky Tracker is a portable camera mount designed for astrophotography that compensates for Earth's rotation. It allows photographers to take long-exposure images of the night sky without star trails, resulting in sharper, more detailed photos of celestial objects. My sky tracker is the iOptron SkyGuider Pro. The SkyGuider Pro is a popular star tracker for astrophotography due to its versatility, precision, and ease of use. It supports up to 11 lbs. (5 kg), making it suitable for heavier setups like DSLRs with long telephoto lenses or even smaller telescopes. It offers 4 tracking rates (1X, 1/2X, solar, & lunar), ideal for both celestial objects and landscape/sky combinations. It has a built-in rechargeable battery that lasts up to 20 hours, removing the need for external power sources.
Ball Head Mount
Ball heads provide infinite adjustability, allowing photographers to position their cameras in virtually any orientation quickly. This flexibility is particularly beneficial for capturing diverse compositions in different shooting scenarios, such as landscape, macro, and wildlife photography. The ball-and-socket mechanism enables rapid adjustments with just a single locking knob, making it ideal for fast-paced shooting situations where time is of the essence. The iOptron Ball Head is designed to work specifically with the SkyGuider Star Tracker. This makes it makes it very quick and easy to get the camera oriented and framed for the shot once the tracker is set.
Camera Backpack
If you have a camera and gear, you need a way to carry it. The LowePro Flipside Trek Camera Backpack is one of my more recent favorites. It offers exceptional value for outdoor photographers, combining functionality, comfort, and protection for all the camera gear. Designed specifically for professional DSLR equipment, it features a Flipside body-side access system that allows you to retrieve your gear without needing to set the bag down, enhancing convenience in dynamic environments. It has a split compartment design providing dedicated space for camera gear while also accommodating personal items. The main camera compartment is customizable allowing for versatile packing options. The backpack is comfortable for all day wear, robust and comes with a built in rain cover. The Flipside Trek is an adaptable solution for photographers seeking to balance their technical needs with the demands of outdoor activities.
Camera Shoulder Clip
The Peak Design Capture Camera Clip V3 is a robust camera accessory designed for photographers seeking a secure and convenient way to carry a camera other than a neck strap which can be wildly uncomfortable. The clip allows for quick access to the camera with a simple push of the quick-release button, ensuring you can capture spontaneous moments without delay. It includes a redundant security lock to prevent accidental release, providing peace of mind during active use. The Capture Camera Clip is compatible with any backpack strap up to 2.5 inches wide and is designed to fit seamlessly onto various backpacks and belts, making it an ideal choice for outdoor activities such as hiking, biking, or day tours. All components are weatherproof, and resistant to rust and saltwater, ensuring durability in challenging conditions. I think this Capture Clip installed on the Flipside Trek backpack is the perfect combination for streamlining gear and allowing you to enjoy more of the adventure or experience without fussing with the gear, but still have quick access to capture moments.
Drone Gear
Cinema Drone
The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a compact and advanced drone designed for both novice and experienced pilots. Weighing under 249 grams, it does not require registration in many regions, making it accessible for casual users. This is a huge feature as it opens up so many more hassle free flying opportunities and locations. It can shoot 4k at 100fps and can reach flight times of up to 38 minutes. With its built in screen, the controller is much more user friendly than its earlier predecessors. The Mini 4 Pro hits the sweet spot between size, weight, and performance. It's the perfect drone for travel bloggers, vloggers, artists, and anyone who wants high-quality aerial footage on the go. The compact and foldable body fits into any bag or backpack, so you can document landscapes, cityscapes, adventures, and more wherever you journey.
Landing Pad
The RC drone universal landing pad is a nice accessory to have for drone pilots. It prevents dirt, dust, sand, and debris from kicking up and damaging the motors and camera of the drones during takeoff and landing. The high contrast colors help locate the safe landing zone more precisely. its also very lightweight and foldable making it easy to transport and use in different environments.
FPV Controller
The TBS Tango 2 PRO is a highly regarded remote control designed specifically for FPV (First Person View) drone pilots. Developed by Team BlackSheep, this controller is known for its compact design and advanced features that cater to both beginners and experienced users. The Tango 2 PRO can be paired with various drones that support Crossfire receivers. It charges from USB-C which can also be used for data transfer such as firmware updates, and connecting to drone simulation software for training, practice, or to continue flying when otherwise unfeasible such as poor weather days.
The TBS Crossfire Nano RX is a cutting-edge FPV long-range drone receiver designed by Team Black Sheep, notable for its compact size and robust performance. Weighing less than one gram, the Nano RX is the smallest receiver on the market, making it ideal for racing and micro quad setups where weight and space are critical considerations Equipped with full range capabilities, the TBS Crossfire Nano RX maintains low latency and high reliability, addressing common issues such as RF noise that can affect 2.4GHz systems. It features a CRSF protocol for telemetry and communication, allowing seamless integration with various flight controllers. The receiver comes with essential accessories including lightweight silicon wire and an immortal antenna, ensuring optimal performance during flights. Overall, the TBS Crossfire Nano RX represents a significant advancement in FPV technology, offering drone pilots a reliable solution for long-range communication in a compact form factor.
The TBS Tango 2 PRO coupled with the TBS Crossfire system offers drone enthusiasts a powerful combination of performance, reliability, and ease of use, making it a top choice in the FPV community.
FPV Goggles
The DJI FPV Goggles 2 are designed for drone racing and immersive FPV (First-Person View) flight experiences. These goggles are ideal for serious FPV enthusiasts looking for high-quality video, low latency, and long-range capabilities. The DJI FPV Goggles 2 are compatible with a range of DJI video transmission systems and air units such as: the DJI FPV Drone, DJI Avata, DJI Avata 2, DJI 03 & 04 FPV Air Units, & Caddx Vista.
Drone Controller Hand Warmer
These hand warmers provide insulation and warmth, preventing numbness and discomfort in the hands while operating a drone. This is crucial for maintaining dexterity and control over the remote controller in freezing temperatures, allowing pilots to focus on flying rather than managing cold hands. If you want to fly drones when or where its cold, this is a must-have item that often gets overlooked.
Drone Backpack
The Torvol Quad PITSTOP Backpack V2 is expertly designed for FPV racing enthusiasts, offering a practical solution for transporting essential gear. This versatile backpack can accommodate mounting of up to four race quadcopters, along with goggles, transmitters, LiPo batteries, and tools. A standout feature is the PITSTOP area, which transforms the backpack into a portable workspace, allowing users to adjust and modify their drones on the fly effortlessly. The backpack includes multiple organizer pockets for smaller items, while larger gear can be securely strapped on the exterior. Comfort is prioritized with thick back padding and adjustable hip and sternum straps, making it ideal for travel or walking and hiking to different flying locations.
Studio Gear
Desktop USB Microphone
The Blue Yeti USB microphone is widely recognized for its exceptional audio quality and versatility, making it a top choice for podcasters, streamers, and content creators. It features a tri-capsule array that allows for four different pickup patterns: Cardioid, Stereo, Omnidirectional, and Bidirectional, enabling users to tailor their recording settings to various situations such as interviews or music performances. The microphone also includes adjustable gain control and a zero-latency headphone output, which enhances the monitoring experience during recordings. The microphone connects to the computer through USB for direct input recording. Its ease of use, plug-and-play functionality, and aesthetic design contribute to its reputation as one of the best value microphones on the market today. I keep this microphone handy on my editing desk for quick voice over applications. It also flips over into itself making it more compact for travel which finds it in my van from time to time for edits or recording on the go.
Studio Microphone
The RØDE PodMic is a broadcast-quality dynamic microphone specifically designed for podcasting, streaming, and other voice-based applications. It features a rich, detailed sound profile, thanks to its high-quality dynamic capsule and cardioid polar pattern, which effectively captures vocal nuances while minimizing background noise. The microphone is equipped with an internal pop filter to reduce plosive sounds and an internal shockmount that dampens vibrations, ensuring clear audio quality even in less-than-ideal recording environments. Constructed with a robust all-metal body, the PodMic is built to withstand the rigors of regular use, making it a durable choice for both beginners and professionals. Its integrated swing mount allows for easy positioning, enhancing usability during recording sessions. I have these paired with the table mount Scissor Arm Boom Stands which allows complete control and flexibility of positioning. The RØDE PodMic connects with XLR cable meaning you will need a mixing board or audio interface. This means more equipment and complexity but offers more flexibility and control of the audio recording.
Mixing & Recording Board
The Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is a versatile 8-channel digital mixer and multitrack recorder designed for podcasters and musicians seeking high-quality audio production in a portable format. It features 12-track simultaneous recording and 10-track playback, allowing users to capture individual audio sources on separate tracks for enhanced editing flexibility. The device includes six high-performance preamps with phantom power, a mix-minus function to prevent audio feedback during remote calls, and six assignable sound pads for easy access to sound effects and jingles. Powered by four AA batteries or a USB power supply, the L-8 can operate for up to 2.5 hours, making it suitable for on-the-go recording. Additionally, it functions as a 12-in/4-out audio interface, enabling direct connection to computers and iOS devices for live streaming or recording sessions. With features like customizable headphone mixes and the ability to save multiple show settings, the Zoom LiveTrak L-8 is a comprehensive solution for modern audio creators looking to achieve professional results without the complexity of traditional studio setups. My LiveTrack L-8 powers my livestreaming studio setup with four PodMics.
Video Livestream Switching Board
The Roland VR-1HD is a versatile AV streaming mixer designed for live broadcasting, combining video switching and audio mixing capabilities in a compact unit. It features three HD HDMI inputs, two XLR microphone inputs, and a line input, allowing users to easily connect multiple video sources and microphones. The device supports automatic mixing and switching modes, enhancing the production quality of live streams by enabling features like beat sync switching and video follows audio. This allows you to run a multicam setup without the need to have someone manual switching camera angles. Additionally, the VR-1HD connects to computers via USB, functioning as a webcam for seamless integration with popular streaming platforms. Its built-in effects and user-friendly interface make it suitable for both novice and experienced content creators looking to elevate their livestreaming experience.
Headphones
The Audio-Technica ATH-M30x studio headphones are a budget-friendly option designed primarily for studio monitoring and casual listening. They feature a closed-back design that provides decent passive isolation, making them suitable for tracking and mixing in quieter environments. With a frequency response that emphasizes clarity in the midrange and highs, these headphones deliver an accurate sound profile, although they may lack some depth in the bass frequencies compared to higher-end models. Comfort-wise, the ATH-M30x is relatively lightweight and can be worn for extended periods.
