What Gear I Carry vs What I Actually Use

There comes a point in every photographer’s journey where your camera bag starts to feel… heavier than it should.

Not just physically—but mentally too.

In this episode of The Photog Files, I break down my current daily carry setup and the shift that changed how I approach photography. Instead of packing for every possible scenario, I’ve simplified things to what I actually use day-to-day—and it’s made a bigger difference than I expected.

In This Episode

• My current daily carry setup (and why it’s so minimal)

• The “just in case” trap most photographers fall into

• Why carrying more gear can actually lead to shooting less

• The real reason small, capable cameras win in everyday life

• How simplifying your setup can improve your creativity

• A simple exercise to rethink your own camera bag

My Daily Carry

Right now, my setup is built around simplicity and usability:

• MacBook Air

• Headphones

• Panasonic Lumix LX7

• OM System TG-7

No excess. No “just in case” gear. Just what I know I’ll actually use.

Key Takeaway

The best camera setup isn’t the most powerful one.

It’s the one you’ll actually carry.

Because the more friction you remove, the more likely you are to shoot—and the more you shoot, the better you get.

Try This

Tomorrow, take everything out of your camera bag.

Then rebuild it from scratch—but only include what you know you’ll use.

Not what you might use.

Not what feels “professional.”

Just what’s real.

Listen to the Episode

You can listen to this episode of The Photog Files on your favorite podcast platform.

Connect With Me

📷 Instagram: @carolinahawkeye
🌐 Website: ricknelson.photography
🎙️ Podcast: The Photog Files