Why My Camera Bag is a Mix of Budget Finds and Big Investments
When I first started my photography journey nearly 14 years ago, I had a trusty companion by my side: my very first DSLR camera, the Nikon D5500. It wasn’t the flashiest or the most expensive gear out there, but it was mine, and I loved it. Paired with a simple 35mm lens, this setup definitely is considered entry-level by industry standards, but it was amazing! My Nikon D5500 and that little 35mm lens served me well, I did some of my very favorite projects and art with that camera, sometimes you have to just master and work with what you have.
For my birthday in 2024, I decided it was finally time for an upgrade. After a lot of research, I switched to my first mirrorless camera, the Canon R6. I found it used for about $1,600, which felt like a perfect fit for my needs and my budget. This upgrade was a big leap for me—not just in terms of technology but also for the creative possibilities it opened up. Mirrorless cameras have so many advantages, and I quickly fell in love with the improved focus, lightweight design, and overall performance.
To go along with my new Nikon R6, I initially invested in a refurbished Sigma 24-35mm lens. While this lens was a great start, I had my sights set on the highly-regarded Canon 24-70mm lens. I’m a big believer in trying before buying, so I rented the Canon lens a few times to make sure it was truly what I needed. There’s so much technical information online about photography gear, and it doesn’t always make sense—sometimes you just need to feel it in your hands and see the results through your lens.
When it comes to renting gear, I love keeping things local with places like Red Finch and Pictureline here in Utah. They’ve both been fantastic for trying out equipment before making a big purchase. I’ve also used LensRental.com, and I have to say, the experience was so easy and convenient! It’s a great option if you can’t find what you need locally or if you want gear shipped straight to your door.
I’m genuinely thrilled with my new gear. It has not only improved the quality of my photos but also made my workflow smoother and more enjoyable. While gear won’t make or break you as a photographer, finding the right tools that complement your style can definitely make your job easier.
Photography gear is an investment, and it’s no secret that it can be wildly expensive. However, by doing thorough research, asking for advice from other photographers, finding used gear, and taking advantage of rental options, I’ve managed to build a setup that works perfectly for me without breaking the bank.
Stay tuned—I’ll be sharing a full post soon about my complete gear list, including all my lighting equipment and the little tools that make every shoot a success!
Can you guess which one of these were taken with my beginner camera vs my new mirrorless camera?
