MM10 - Camera Bag Contents (Non-Photo Equip)

I'm a Boy Scout. I will always be a Boy Scout. Though it been over a decade since I went to my last meeting, the motto is still clear in my memory: "Be Prepared." It really doesn't matter whether your in the woods, at the office, or on a location photo shoot - these words are good one's to live by. I've carried on the tradition with my photography business. When I show up for a shoot I'm usually carrying my Tamrac Expedition 7 which isn't the biggest camera bag you'll ever see, but it's in the running. Today's MM10 will focus on the things that aren't photo equipment in the bag, or thing that I intend to add to the bag because of recent experiences. Hopefully this list will make you think, and help you to "Be Prepared" as well.

(1) Laptop (w/CF Card Reader)

Whenever possible, I like to take the laptop to view the shots from the day and make a backup copy from the cards as soon as possible.

(2) Gaffer's Tape, Duct Tape, or Masking Tape

For quick repairs, marking locations (putting an "X" on the floor), holding down cables, etc. FYI - don't use masking tape for anything but marking locations - it just doesn't hold up to any abuse.

(3) Notepad / Mechanical Pencil(s)

For writing down descriptions of locations, lighting, setup, etc. Also for noting any promises you've made to the customer that you want to be able to reference at a later date. (I started including a notepad after a couple of occasions of having to write a rather embarassing email to my customer asking them exactly what I told them I'd do for them.)

(4) Business Cards

I always run out of the few that I carry in my wallet. Having a reserve in the camera bag is essential.

(5) Batteries

Have more batteries than you need, for everything you need. Including whatever "backup" batteries your camera can use. In the case of the D200, the battery grip will take 4 AA's in a special battery holder.

(6) Bobby Pins and Safety Pins

It feels weird, as a guy, to put bobby pins in your camera bag... until the first time the bride has a "hair emergency" and you get to be the hero.

(7) First Aid Essentials

A couple band-aids, but more importantly - a mini medicine cabinet. I keep the following: Advil, Pepto, Immodium, Benadryl. I don't have to explain how that covers most of everything that would take you out of the game on an important shoot.

(8) Multi-Tool

Like MacGyver, you never know when a good pocket knife will get you out of a jam. Getting a multi-tool which incorporates pliers and screwdrivers makes it all the more useful.

(9) Trash Bag

I keep one trash bag in my camera bag for emergency rain protection, either for me or the camera equipment.

(10) Forgive me... there's only nine "non-photo" items in my bag.

That's all for today. Hope everyone has a wonderful week. - Rob

Comments

[JustAnotherPhotographyBlogger]

I'm sure you have a #10!!! How about tissues for the bride? Toiletry bag to clean-up after a reception meal? Disposable camera for all the special moments where your DSLR just won't cut it? Juggling balls for side-entertainment? CD of music for special dedication to the bride and groom? How about a little light reading in the form of your favorite "Scott Kelby Does Photoshop 3000 for Advanced Users"? ... OR ... How about a freshly pressed and folded "Tripods are NOT a crime" t-shirt??? Anyways, thanks for another interesting Monday Morning Ten!