One of the best parts of travel is trying to capture the wonders we encounter in a single frame.  Freezing moments where color, movement, and the line of a horizon can instantly transport us back to destinations halfway across the globe.

It turns a love for seeing the world into a love for sharing the world with others.

And by using the gear in this travel photography gift guide, you can ensure your photos are as memorable as the experiences they reflect.

CAMERAS

Canon 5D Mark IV

I recently upgraded my Canon 80D for the Canon 5D Mark IV and am obsessed with it!

• 30.4 megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor
• ISO range of 100-32000 (expandable to 50-102400) for sharp low light images
• 4K video recording
• Up to 7.0 frames per second continuous shooting
• LCD touch screen makes quick navigation a cinch! 
• Built-in wireless for quick downloads and use with the Canon app

Canon 80D

I began my love for travel photography with the Canon EOS 80D and loved it!  I would have kept it forever had it not been for wanting to upgrade to a full-frame sensor.

• 24.2 megapixel (APS-C) CMOS sensor
• ISO range of 100 – 16000 (expands to 25600)
• 45-point all cross-type AF system delivers superb auto-focus
• 1920 x 1080 video resolution
• 7.0 frames per second continuous shooting.
• Built-in flash in addition to a traditional flash mount
• Fully articulating touch screen
• Built-in wireless for easy connectivity and use with Canon app

Canon PowerShot G7X Mark II

I carry this point-and-shoot with me at all times in case I need to quickly capture a moment on the go.

• 20.1 megapixel CMOS sensor
• Canon’s new DIGIC 7 Image Processor for sharp low-light images
• Versatile 24-100mm zoom
• f/1.8-2.8 aperture for dramatic background blur
• 8 frames per second
• Both RAW and JPEG modes
• 1080p full HD video in MP4 format with stereo sound
• 3.0″ touch panel LCD screen tilts 180 degrees up and 45 degrees down
• Built-in wireless for easy connectivity and use with Canon’s app

GoPro HERO9 Black

For more adventurous shoots, I always use my GoPro Hero9 Black.

• Waterproof up to 33ft (10m) without a housing
• 20-megapixel resolution
• SuperPhoto feature intelligently picks all the best image processing for you
• Digital shooting so you can choose between Narrow, Linear, Wide and SuperView
• Ability to change out lens to Max Mod Lens
• 5k video with HyperSmooth Video Stabilization
• Time Warp, Time Lapse, and Slow Motion video capability
• Schedule Capture and Duration Capture to choose when you start shooting and for how long
• Built-in horizon leveling gives videos a smooth, cinematic look
• Front preview screen and rear touch screen with touch zoom
• Voice commands make it extremely user-friendly
• Built-in wireless connects to your phone’s app automatically
• Even creates stunning edited videos automatically using Quickstories!
• Live Streaming in 1080p allows you to share your stories instantly on social media

Fujifilm Instax Mini 90 Instant Film Camera

If you want instant gratification with your images, a fun way to get it is with the Fujifilm Instax Mini 90.

• 60mm lens, f/12.7 aperture
• Automatically detects brightness and adjusts the flash and shutter speed accordingly
• Double exposure mode 2 images are produced on 1 film sheet
• Bulb mode to photograph light trails
• Macro mode short distance photography as close as 30-60cm
• Kids mode suitable for photographing fast-moving subjects
• Film size: 86mm x 54mm. Picture size: 62mm x 46mm

Lenses

Shot using my 24-105mm everyday lens. The zoom range allowed me to get tight on my subjects, or wider to capture the full scene.

Canon EF 24–105mm f/4L IS II USM Lens

I consider this my everyday lens for its versatility and image clarity.

• Zoom range of 24-105mm for capturing mid-telephoto to wide-angle
• Image stabilization for crisp shots
• Constant f/4 aperture
• Non-stick fluorine coating on its front and rear surfaces to avoid fingerprints, dust, water, oil, and other residues from sticking
• Dust and water-resistant switch panel, zoom and focus rings, and lens mount
• Durable construction of Canon’s L-series (indicated by the red line)

Shot using my 16-35mm wide angle lens.

Canon EF 16–35mm f/2.8L III USM Lens

For stunning wide-angle shots, this lens is my favorite.  It’s perfect for landscapes, interiors, and low-light situations.

• Zoom range of 16-35mm
• Image Stabilization
• Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture
• All-new optical design offers significant improvements to outer and corner sharpness
• Sub Wavelength Coating (SWC) and Air Sphere Coating (ASC) to alleviate flare and ghosting
• Resistant to water and dust
• The solid construction of Canon’s L-series line

A shot of a bee using my 100mm macro lens. It’s hard to tell in this thumbnail, but the lens captured each individual hair on the bee’s back!

Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro Lens

The quality of this lens is incomparable.  My Canon macro lens takes absolutely stunning photos!

• Prime 100mm lens
• Image Stabilization for the closest of close-ups
• Constant f/2.8 aperture delivers striking background blur for portraits, food, or true macro photography.
• Closest focusing distance 0.99 ft/0.3m (maximum close-up magnification: 1x)
• Dust and water-resistant for challenging conditions
• The solid construction of Canon’s L-series

Shot of a lion I took on safari using my 70-200mm lens.

Canon EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS II USM Telephoto Zoom Lens

I bought this lens prior to my safari in Africa and I couldn’t be happier I did.  Its ability to zoom in tight on my subjects was absolutely astounding!

• A long 70-200mm zoom range
• Constant f/2.8 maximum aperture great for low-light situations
• Dust and water-resistant for challenging conditions
• The durable construction of Canon’s L-series
• Considered to be one of the finest telephoto zoom lenses in the L-line, optically comparable to a prime lens!

Interior shot using my 10-22mm. Because I was shooting on a cropped frame camera, I wouldn’t have been able to capture the stained glass on the sides without it.

Canon EF-S 10-22mm f/3.5-4.5 USM SLR Lens

For crop frame cameras, a great way to capture wide-angle shots is with this lens!  For that reason, I used this all the time when I was shooting on my Canon 80D so I didn’t lose the drama of landscapes and interiors.

• Wide-angle zoom range of 10-22mm
• Maximum aperture of f/3.5-4.5
• Both manual and autofocus capability

Note: an EF-S lens will not work on full-frame cameras, such as the Canon 5D Mark IV

UV Lens Filter

The first thing I buy when I get a new lens is a UV filter.  Because at $1,000+ per lens, I want something to protect the lens glass against nicks and scratches.  Some may argue that filters decrease the quality of your photos.  However, as long as you don’t go bargain basement and actually pay for quality, I’ve found my pictures are still crystal clear.  And this, my friend, is quality.

• The world’s sharpest filter, featuring Schott Superwhite B270 Optical Glass
• At 16 layers thick, it’s actually structurally stronger than your lens glass
• Nano coating to repel dust and dirt
• Traction frame eliminates vignetting and light fallout on full-frame wide-angle setups
• Superb construction made in Germany

Note: lens filters come in a variety of sizes, so make sure you choose the one appropriate for your specific lens from those listed in the link

TRIPODS

Peak Design Travel Tripod

When it comes to tripods, the Peak Design Travel Tripod is the gold standard.  No larger than a water bottle, its intuitive design and countless features make it an absolute dream to work with (and my personal favorite piece of photography equipment!) While it may have a higher price point, it’s well worth the extra money!

• The carbon fiber version weighs 2.81lbs and the aluminum version weighs 3.44lbs
• Extends from 5.5″ in low mode to a max height of 60″
• Stores at a length of 15.4″ in a padded, weatherproof case
• Can hold up to 20lbs of camera equipment
• Nonslip, shock-absorbing feet
• One single adjustment ring with a simple locking ring
• Fully deploys in less than 10 seconds
• Integrated phone mount in the center column

Davis & Sanford Compact Tripod

Tired of your tripod taking up half the room in your luggage?  I was too.  So I bought this Davis & Sanford super compact tripod and absolutely love it!

• Weighs a mere 2.6 pounds
• Can fold from its maximum height of 53″ down to only 12″!
• Sturdy ball head can handle DSLR cameras up to 10 pounds

Joby GorillaPod Compact Tripod

Ideal for attaching camera equipment to just about anything!  My JOBY GorillaPod is great for holding my GoPro and compact camera no matter where my adventures take me.

• Versatile for gripping, wrapping, or simply standing on multiple surfaces (tree limbs, fences, rocks, you name it!)
• Durable, flexible legs are easily movable
• Reinforced steel ball
• Sturdy construction and long-lasting durability.

Note:  This will not support a DSLR camera and shouldn’t be used with any equipment weighing more than 2.2lbs

GoPro 3-Way Grip, Arm, and Tripod

My absolute favorite GoPro accessory!  Its versatile design is a must for any GoPro owner.

• Official mount to be used as an extension, camera grip, or tripod (using legs found inside the screw bottom handle)
• Waterproof so it can be used to securely hold your camera underwater
• One-of-a-kind curve design so your selfies won’t be ruined by your arm!

MEMORY & POWER

SanDisk 128GB Memory Card

I trust SanDisk to capture all my amazing travel memories.   And after purchasing multiple 32GB and 64GB cards over the years, I tired of having so many to keep track of.  Instead, I now exclusively use 128GB cards so I never have to worry about running out of memory.

• Read speed of up to 95MB/second and a write speed of up to 90MB/second
• Durable construction that’s shock-proof, temperature-proof, waterproof, and x-ray proof

Aluminum Memory Card Case

The longer you shoot, the more memory cards you have to keep track of.  That’s why I use this handy memory card case to keep my data organized.

• Each has the capacity for 16 cards (8 SD cards and 8 micro SD cards)
• Compatible with SD, micro SD, SDHC, SDXC, and TF cards
• The metal case is also water-resistant and shock-proof

Samsung Portable SSD Hard Drive

You’ve heard the lecture before – backup your work, backup your work, backup your work!  For that reason, I use my Samsung portable hard drives to store all my photos.  Not only does this protect them in case my computer crashes or I lose my memory cards, but it also saves memory space on my laptop!

• Extremely fast read-write speeds of 540 MB/second
• Secure with optional password protection
• Durable metal design
• No moving parts so it’s shock-resistant

Battery Charger Set for Canon Models

Nothing is worse than watching your battery drain more and more as the day goes on.  So it’s always smart to bring one or two extra batteries with you!

• Dual battery set
• Allows up to 650 photos each
• Features wall, car, and power bank charging for added convenience!

CAMERA STRAPS & LEASHES

Vintage Camera Strap

A camera strap is a random thing to get compliments on, but I always get comments when I wear my Capturing Couture camera strap.  And not only does it look great, but it’s also extremely comfortable!

• Black velvet lining and extra padding in the middle so it doesn’t hurt after hours of wear
• Fully adjustable from 14″ to 58″ for versatile wear on your neck, shoulder, or crossbody
• Choose from a dazzling variety of available colors!

Map Camera Strap

Want an accessory that inspires your wanderlust?  Then this vintage map camera strap has you covered!  I used it during my photography tour around South Africa and absolutely loved it!

• Adjustable up to 52″
• 2″ width evenly distributes weight
• Light padding for added comfort
• Universal so it’s compatible with almost any DSLR camera

Peak Design Slide Lite

Light, versatile, and easy to connect, the Peak Design Slide Lite is the Cadillac of camera straps.

• Huge range of length adjustment, made possible by 2 quick-pull adjusters
• Connects to strap loops or bottom of camera body via ultra low-profile Anchor Mount hardware
• Ultra-smooth nylon webbing with tight, durable weave
• Anchors hold 200 lbs

Peak Design Arm Cuff

For peace of mind on the go, the Peak Design Arm Cuff is a necessity.  Lightweight but mighty, this simple arm cuff allows you to hold your camera without worrying it will drop.  Brilliant!

• Adjustable magnet lets you wear Cuff as a bracelet when not in use
• Angled anchors allow for effortless 1-handed connection
• Anchors each hold over 200lbs

Lens Cap Keepers

My winning combination of being forgetful along with being easily distracted has led to a lot of lost lens caps.  Consequently, I invested in a few of these lens leashes and I haven’t lost a cap since!

• Premium adhesive for easy attachment to any lens cap
• Elastic strap for attachment to camera lens or body
• Comes with bonus microfiber lens cloth

CAMERA ACCESSORIES

Aputure AL-MX Light

The one photography accessory I never leave home without is my Aputure AL-MX portable light.  This extremely versatile gadget allows you to capture the moment with perfect lighting every time and is a must for any photographer!

• Features a 5-step adjustable color temperature ranging from 2800-6500K so you can get creative with your shots
• Boost option which increases brightness by 30% for that extra kick when you need it (capable of operating at 60-second intervals)
• A wide 120° beam angle that outputs 3200 lux @ 0.3m
• Made of aircraft-grade aluminum and featuring an extremely efficient heat management system, the AL-MX is built to last for years in even the harshest conditions
• 1/4 screw and universal cold shoe mount, you can easily install the AL-MX on cameras, light stands, etc
• 128 SMD LED bulbs, credit card-sized panel and weighs just 278g
• Built-in lithium rechargeable battery and USB Type-C charging port3, it lasts an average of 1 hour at full power and 4 hours at minimum power

DSLR Cleaning Kit

It’s important to keep your lens glass clean so your pictures are crystal clear.  And the best way to do that is with a professional cleaning kit.

• Bundle comes with a 2 oz bottle of lens cleaner, a lens cleaning pen, a lens brush, an air blower, 50 sheets of cleaning tissues, and microfiber cleaning cloths
• Cleaner is specifically formulated for multi-coated optical surfaces so it’s ammonia, alcohol, and odor-free.

GOPRO ACCESSORIES

SanDisk 64GB Memory Card

I trust all my GoPro moments to a quality SanDisk memory card.

• 64GB micro SD memory card
• UHS speed Class 3 (U3), video speed Class 30 (V30) and Class 10 for 4K UHD and full HD video
• Compatible with Hero 6, Hero 5, Karma Drone, Hero 4, Session, Hero 3, 3+, Hero + Black Silver White Cameras
• Comes with bonus memory card reader!

GoPro Dual Battery Charger

With all their awesome capabilities, GoPros tend to suck their batteries dry.  That’s why I always carry multiple batteries when I’m shooting my more extreme adventures.

• Dual battery charger compatible with HERO8 Black, HERO7 Black, HERO6 Black
• Includes a spare 1220mAh lithium‑ion rechargeable battery
• Combination charger for use with two batteries at once

Tempered-Glass GoPro Screen & Lens Protector

Your GoPro may have seen a lot of action, but that doesn’t mean its glass has to look like it.  If you’re a walking disaster like me, you tend to drop things.  A lot.  Luckily, by using these protectors I never have to worry that my camera will suffer the consequences!

• Tempered glass screen and lens protectors
• Only 0.3mm thick
• Maintains original touch screen experience and image clarity

Before and after using a red filter.

Red, Magenta, & Yellow GoPro Filter Set

Curious why your underwater photos aren’t as spellbinding as the ones you see on Instagram?  Well, the most likely culprit is you’re not using a red filter.  The deeper you dive, the more color loss you’ll experience because water is about 800 times thicker than air.  So a quick fix is to use a filter to help bring the natural colors back out.

• Kit comes with varying red filters for different depths
• Yellow filter for night diving
• Magenta filter for green waters

GoPro Underwater Dome

Ever wonder how you can capture half over half underwater shots?  Well, the answer is the Dome.  This handy gadget helps you shoot two worlds at once.

• Waterproof housing
• Unique lens hood design helps eliminate flare while protecting it from damage
• Compatible with GoPro Hero 5 and Hero 6 Black

CAMERA BAGS & CASES

ONA Bowery Leather Camera Bag

Camera bags aren’t cute.  There.  I said it.  But that’s certainly not the case with ONA’s collection of versatile and stylish camera bags.  I lusted after this bag for months (and spent tons of money on cheaper look-alikes in hopes they’d be just as awesome.  They weren’t).  So I finally broke down and treated myself to this bag, and I’ve never had an ounce of buyer’s remorse.

• Sturdy Italian leather construction
• Buckle closure
• Removable adjustable shoulder strap
• Moveable padded lens divider
• Multiple pockets for organization
• Comfortably fits 1-2 lenses and a few personal items, or a DSLR body and one lens
• Exterior dimensions: 10.5 x 7 x 4 inches
• Weight: 2.65 lbs

ONA Prince Street Leather Camera Bag

Need something a little roomier?  Then upgrade to the ONA Prince Street!  It’s stylish, versatile, convenient, and eye-catching.

• Sturdy Italian leather construction
• Buckle closure
• Removable adjustable shoulder strap
• Moveable padded lens divider
• Multiple pockets for organization, along with a slip pocket for an iPad or 11-inch laptop
• Fits one DSLR camera with lens attached, and an additional 1-2 other lenses
• Exterior dimensions: 12.5 x 10 x 4.5 inches 
• Weight: 3.3 lbs

Lo & Sons Claremont

When I need to look a little dressier, I love using my Lo & Sons Claremont camera bag.  Its simple, stylish design resembles a purse and looks great when paired with a dress and cute sandals.

• Internal padding and dividers to protect your gear
• Small slip pockets for SD cards
• Back zipper pocket to secure your essentials
• Nickel-free metal turn-lock front closure
• Made from durable, full-grain leather

Peak Design Everyday Sling

When I want something lightweight and easy to carry, I always use my Peak Design Everyday Sling.  It has a spacious interior, lots of pockets to organize accessories, and offers easy access to all my gear on the go.

• Available in 3L, 6L, and 10L sizes
• Wear as a sling or hip bag in 3L and 6L sizes, sling only in 10L
• Multiple padded dividers and interior pockets for organization
• Durable and water-resistant UltraZips zippers

Nomatic Peter McKinnon Camera Pack

An authority on travel photography and the best photography gear, Peter McKinnon doesn’t put his name on just anything.  So, when he partnered with Nomatic to create the best photography backpack on the market, they didn’t disappoint.  This bag has everything you could ever want to keep your equipment orderly and secure.

• 35L with 42L expansion
• Durable, water-resistant construction
• Separate sections for camera and clothing
• Laptop and tablet storage
• Quick side access pocket

Leather Case for Canon Powershot G7X Mark II

Not only does this vintage-style camera case protect my Canon G7X Mark II, but it’s also super cute!

• Made from artificial PU leather
• Lightweight yet extremely durable
• Soft interior protects both the lens and the screen
• Removable adjustable strap
• Screw bottom that securely adheres it to the camera while offering a convenient place to screw in a tripod

Vera Bradley Go Anywhere Carry-on

Ok, it’s not officially a camera bag.  But whenever I travel, this is what I pack all my camera gear into on a flight.

• Multiple pockets in varying sizes to keep organized (along with a padded pocket for a laptop!)
• Back pocket can be unzipped at the bottom to slip over a luggage handle
• Water-resistant fabric
• Conveniently fits under airline seats.
• Comes in multiple colors and patterns!

There are lots of other products that will help improve your photography (flashes, monopods, drones, handheld gimbals, etc.)  But the items listed above in this travel photography gift guide are a great start!

So grab your camera and start capturing the world frame by frame!

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