What’s in Your Bag? with Landscape and Street Shooter Andy Williams
Do you know all those times when you’re out shooting and you run into another photographer? You sneak glances at their gear to see if they measure up to what you’ve got (or because you covet thy neighbor’s glass.) Don’t worry, we all do it!
Now we’re letting you do it shamelessly and without fear of getting caught. Let’s see what SmugMug’s House Pro Andy Williams of Moon River Photography puts in his bag. Read all the way to the bottom — you may just win something…
I’ve owned lots of gear, but my collection has actually shrunk over the years and now I only keep and carry what I actually use.
Bag
Let’s start with the bag itself. For years and years, I’ve been using the Crumpler Farmer’s Double and I still love it. It’s my bag of choice for a day trip or short outing. Look for it used, because Crumpler doesn’t make it anymore. 
For longer trips, I’ve recently settled on the Kiboko bag from Andy Biggs’ Gura Gear. I’ve had the opportunity to try a whole lot of bags – top of the line models from Lowepro, Crumpler, Tenba and Think Tank – and I chose the Gura Gear bag:
It’s super light, made from the same fabric used in America’s Cup sailboat sails! It’s less than half the weight of the big bags from the other guys, and when you carry it all day that makes a big difference. It holds plenty: two bodies, plenty of glass, accessories and more. You can even put a 500mm f/4 in it!
The suspension system is awesome, it rides well, and you feel like you’re carrying much less weight than you actually have. And, it hides when you don’t want to use it. This bag will easily swallow up 35lbs of gear with room to spare. Everything about this bag screams attention to detail – the way the suspension system tucks away out of sight when you’re not using it, the built-in raincover, the zipper pulls that are glove-friendly. They’re out of stock most everywhere right now, but Andy Biggs assures me that he’s got some really cool stuff in store for his fans really soon.
Tripod
As a landscaper, this is without a doubt one of the most important pieces of gear I own. I recently started using the newest carbon-fiber kit from Really Right Stuff, their TVC-23. Expensive? Yup. But the stability of this rig just can’t be matched by any tripod I’ve used (including the top of the line Gitzos). It’s super strong and super lightweight at only 3lbs. I pair this tripod with the Really Right Stuff BH-40 ballhead which also supports the lenses that I use regularly (up to 300mm). I do own the larger RRS BH-55 ballhead for when I need to support a 400mm or 500mm lens. For years, I was using the Gitzo 2530, and what I like about the new RRS ‘pods is their stability, and the way the head comes together with its “Apex Lock” system. It is without a doubt the sturdiest, lightest tripod I’ve ever owned.
For traveling, and lightweight (like backpacking), I also have the Gitzo 1541 and a RRS BH-30 which is a super lightweight combo! I shoot lots of panoramas, and so a very important piece of my kit is the Really Right Stuff Pano Head, which I use for stitched panos in the landscape.
Glass!
I admit I’m a bit of a glass snob. I’ll use primes when I can, but I do love a couple of zooms I own. Let’s go from small to big.
- First off, the Tokina 10-17mm fisheye zoom – super ultrawide on the full-frame 5DII and for really fun landscape videos on the 7D. Sharp and reliable! But… I do have my eye on Canon’s newly announced 8-15mm fisheye zoom though, and expect to be shooting with it this summer.
- Canon’s 24 f/1.4L Mark II – a fantastically sharp wide angle lens, I’m so in love with this glass that I gave up the supremely sharp Zeiss 21mm f/2.8 for it!
- For all-around use, I have one of the very first copies of Canon’s 24-105L and it’s a workhorse lens for me. If I’m out for a day and I can’t take a lot of glass, I’ll grab this.
- For portraits, I have a couple of excellent choices: Canon’s 50 f/1.2L and Canon’s 135 f/2L. Given enough room, I love shooting portraits with the 135L, it’s one of the sharpest lenses ever, bar-none. Love the 50mm 1.2 for it’s ginormous lens opening – and it’s my go-to lens for extreme low-light work.
- More reach? I’m not the first guy to say that Canon’s 70-200 f/2.8L IS Mark II is a favorite. I own it, have owned the prior model, and won’t ever be without it. Super sharp, great IS so you can shoot in low-light when needed. Fast on the AF. And yeah, I use it in the landscape, too.
- Recently, I’ve been using Canon’s newest zoom, 70-300 L IS. It’s not fast (f/5.6 at the long end) but boy is it sharp and what a convenient little package.
- If you’re wondering about birds and wildlife: I don’t own really long glass but when I need it, I usually rent a 500mm f/4L or 600mm f/4L from BorrowLenses. When I travel to Africa for three weeks this October, I’m doing just that!
Bodies
No surprise here – I shoot with a Canon 5D Mark II and a Canon 7D. The 5D Mark II is a super landscaper’s camera, great performance, high pixel count, HD movies, and more. When I need a faster frame rate and a bit faster AF, I reach for the 7D.
Funny, I used to be a 1Ds Mark III snob… but I cannot for the life of me figure out why one would buy that camera body at nearly 3x the cost of a 5D Mark II. Sure, I’m awaiting the rumored 1Ds Mark IV like most Canon shooters, but the sane part of me says, “why”?
Filters
Guess what? I own only two, a circular polarizer and a neutral density filter. I use the CPL when I want to get the best sky possible 90 degrees or so from the sun. I will also use it in certain circumstances like fall foliage to get richer colors, and of course to lose reflections when shooting water. I love my 6-stop ND filter, to smooth out the water in a waterfall or running stream in daylight.
Miscellany
On my 5DII and 7D bodies, I add a Camdapter Hand Strap – super comfortable! I always carry my Infrared-converted Canon SD-980IS, camera manuals (you never know!), extra batteries, an intervalometer for timed exposures, a remote shutter release, headlamp, flashlight, shooting gloves for the cold weather, plenty of CF cards, lens cloth, lens cleaner, a mink brush, Giottos mini-Blower, The Photographer’s Rights, my business cards and a leatherman for when things go wrong.
Everything Else
After I shoot there’s plenty to do! I use Adobe’s Lightroom 3 (and SmugMug’s awesome built-in uploading), Photoshop CS5, Auto Pano Pro for my stitches, all on an Apple Mac Pro with two 30″ HP Monitors.
Win This MetalPrint
It’s not all work, and no play though. Now that you’ve gotten a close look at my gear bag, here’s your chance to take home something fun (note: Ts and Cs here). Comment on our blog post below and “Like” us on Facebook. One winner will be randomly selected on Monday, April 18 at Noon PDT to win a big and beautiful MetalPrint of this Mono Lake Tufa photo. You can see how it will look on your wall here.
Enjoy (looking into other photographers’ bags) photography,
- Andy
—————
UPDATE! We were totally blown away by the response to this giveaway, so we are sharing the love and randomly selecting THREE Winners!
First place, and the winner of the MetalPrint, goes to Darlene Buck. The two Runner Ups, and the winners of a free year of SmugMug Pro each, are Jordan Van de Vorst and Jenny Sipes. Congrats!! Katherine from our team will be emailing you each shortly with details of your prize.
Thanks to everyone who participated. There is a lot more goodness where this came from, so keep yer eyes on this blog, Facebook, and Twitter for many more giveaways to come.
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I never thought of using my feet to check out flesh tones in an image!
You left out one item from your bag…it is “hey, you gonna bring that 300 f/2.8? Can I borrow that?” LOL
Great post Andy!
Laugh. Some of the best stuff is OPG (other people’s gear).
Hi Andy,
What about the coveted knee pad?
Gorgeous shot!
Never heard of those grips..got to get me that python one. Awesome selection of glass too…hope he doesn’t leave that bag sitting alone…I might take it.
I love finding out what other people shoot with! Guilty! I’ve sneaked a peek at other photographers to see what their shooting with! Your gear is impressive to say the least!
I was out shooting at the local botanical gardens last year and saw another photog shooting a wedding there. I had my 80-200 on me so I shot a picture gear when I was at a good angle so I could see what he had. I was disappointed to see yet another “pro photographer” toting a $600 body/lens kit with a cheap brand flash.
As long as the pictures are pro quality, I don’t care if they were shot with a pocket instamatic, but it sure as hell depresses me to see someone with incredible gear that still can’t manage to turn out anything more than marginally passable on either a technical or an artistic level.
Hey Andy- would love to know what intervalometer you’ve settled on.
Awesome write up- think I’m going to need to take a serious look at the tripod and bag…
Hi Daniel, I use Canon’s intervalometer: http://smu.gs/i3zjFQ
keep up the great work! I’d love to see more favorite lenses.
Once I hit 60, my favorite bag item became Aleve Gel Caps. I don’t go anywhere without them.
Bruce: I didn’t mention the meds
But yeah, I do have a little baggy of Vitamin “M” – Motrin!
Thanks for the info. Thanks for the link to the Photographer’s Rights
Thanks for the breakdown!
Fancy
Thanks for the sneak peek!
Awesome breakdown!
Beautiful Image!
Love your images! It’s always great to see what other photogs are toting around. Definitely having some lens envy =P
Really insightful – thanks!
Bag lust. Of all things… I now have bag lust.
Fantastic. May have to look into some of those things myself.
Thanks for the peek in your bag – I love this kind of thing. Where does the Leatherman travel when you need to get through TSA?
Oh, besides the tylenol/immodium/antacids baggie I never leave home without a couple of protein bars in my bag.
Hey Andrew, I only carry the Leatherman in checked bag when traveling by air. If I’m carrying everything on, then sadly, no Leatherman.
I always enjoy when photogs show what’s in their bag, thanks Andy.
I lust the bag! And I lust the toys. However, it looks like you photoshopped your feet. No wrinkles or hang-nails!! They is just way too smooth!
My feet are my most important part of the whole setup! Gotta take care of ‘em http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pedicure
Oh my! And seriously I’ve just been drooling over getting a couple of prime lenses and a step-up from my T1i… LOL. This newbie has a long way to go. Now I’m off to go figure out what an intervalometer is.
Yes it’s great to hear these pro stories because it’s insightful and a great learning perspective!
I shoot with the same camera as you as well. How do you like it so far?
Hi Jack! It’s def insightful. I like the camera – but I HATE the on-camera flash. Wish I knew what I know now about lighting and kit lenses before I started. That being said, I’m forcing myself to learn exactly what I need to know to take great pics. Some people judge pro-photogs using remedial gear. I think it’s worse to use rad gear and produce remedial work.
(The upgrade on stuff will come eventually!!)
Nice bit of gear there… The glass alone makes me jealous!
Great stuff! That kiboko looks very nice. I am on the upswing of collecting equipment, I suppose starting to weed stuff out now might be the best idea! But we all love toys. Thanks for sharing Andy. (sidebar- I always wondered about that big ol’ expensive 1Ds…)
That would look perfect on my bare wall!
Besides seeing the gear, it helps to read why it was jammed into the bag. Thanks!
I hate reading, I just look at the pictures.
Does Any mind that you’ve stolen his print from his wall?
Thanks for sharing!\
Great post!
Wow really like all of your stuff! glad SmugMug posted to facebook you have ALOT of helpful tips and amazing work! I’m going to be using these tops while I’m visiting Nevada for some awesome mountain shots
Beautiful picture! Very envious of the bag as well!
Interesting to read about the filters. I really want to learn how to put those to good use.
prints, damn that ones nice
Thanks for the great article! Nice glass btw
!
Love to see what other people carry in their bags…..and I also have a “bag” fetish.
“O”! BEAUTIFUL PRINT!!!!
I WOULD <3 TO HANG IT ON MY WALL!!! =)
LOL
THANKS!
WITH LOVE
TAMMY
XOXO
Thanks for the insight to your gear.
Great post, Andy. Thanks for the look at your gear!
All that nice glass, left you with out the cash to buy some shoes…
I want to be first in line when you start giving away the stuff inside of the bag!! :0D That print would look fabulous in my new studio!! Smugmug ROCKS!! seriously!!
I love the gear and the bags.. but i LOVE the Lapel Pins….
Nice bags and print! Which reminds me…I sure need to organize by gear better.
I always love hearing what gear other photographers use!
Love all the pins!
Felicia – me too! It’s the first thing I look for when I’m in a cool new place.
ohhh nice!
I agree all great stuff. The bag was very interesting to me. I have tried metalprints on a small scale and was very impressed.
Ive looked at Nikon’s 10-24mm lens, I didnt even think of doing video with a fisheye!!! def something I’ll need to try.
Great blog! Im tempted to get a wide prime also… Pick me!!!
Great blog! Although I must say after reading through all the different types of gear, your setup for editing has me the most impressed. I just love that great shot right above your desk with the sun peaking through the rocks!
oh….great stuff in your bag…yeah I can’t rationalize the price differences in the full frame bodies either.
Ahhh the screen real estate with 2, 30″ monitors. I thought I was doing good with a 27″ iMac and 27″ cinema display. Thanks for the peak into the bag. I’d love to have some of that gear to carry with me all the time!
Do you carry a point and shoot as well?
Keith – always! I have an IR-converted SD-980IS from Canon for my Infrareds, and I have my iPhone for color P&S.
Thanks for the peek into your bag! I always like reading about what others carry around with them
What a nice print!
Awesome setup an gear you have, super jealous at your rigg an your landscapes rock.. All the Best
Thank you soooo much for sharing! I am SO guilty of trying to see what other people are using. We can all learn so much from each other.
Thanks for the breakdown, just getting started in photography and every little tip helps! Thanks Andy!
Good stuff Andy! I’ve heard a lot of good things about Really Right Stuff tripods. I have one of them on my short list of things to purchase, right after one of the new Canon 24mm T/S lenses.
I’ll have to check out this Auto Pano Pro!
No flash?
Hah, yeah I have ‘em. 2x Canon 580EX II. And a few other things I bring along, in my portable lighting kit.
Wow. Amazing gear!! Yes, I’ll take one of each, please!!
I love gear posts.
I’m a fan of Andy’s. I specially like the image of him with feet on the table – hahahaha – so funny. No worries Andy; I do the same thing when I work and need to stretch my legs. Loving your work Andy!
I’m thinking about picking up a 24L prime as well.
btw that metalprint is amazing!
Thank you! Always interesting to hear what other people use and why.
I don’t have anywhere near enough gear to have any bags that large, but they all look very functional.
Love the bag, just need the stuff to put in it. One day all have a great collection of lenses and a great camera to go with them!
Cool, first time to read your blog and I enjoyed it. Loved the link for renting lens! Awesome
Awesome info. Thanks for sharing! <3
Looking for the best gearbag I can get. It had to hold my Canon7D and several lenses. Backpacking into to remote area with this much gear is hard enough, need a lighter yet durable bag. I am going to look at the bag you have mentioned here. i almost went to Mono Lake with my kid (17yr old budding shooter, with an incredible eye) but we opted for a beach vaca.. limited shooting ops this trip ;{.
I really like that print. Since I’ve not won anything from y’all, let’s have this be the first thing, k? Many thanks.
Thanks for this post. As a newbie in the photography world, it’s always really helpful to know what people are shooting with and what sort of gear they actaully use/cart around. Think I’ll go shopping for a new bag…
wish i had a nice gear bag like that!! gues si will have to hope to win many prizes from smugmug until business picks up!
As a noob to photography, it is always nice to learn little bits of new things and insight. Thanks!
Nice Post! nice photo!
Love the metal prints and the wide pans – keep it up! Have been looking at Tri-pod and bag combos for a while, so far using a non camera bag for the gear but looking to get into “the good stuff”
Great post Andy! Thanks for the inside peek! And yes… I do covet thy glass!
how did you sneak that into my house to show me how that would look on my wall?! Gumby help edit the pics?
Thanks …
What I was thinking is … since it’s tax time and I owe this year (
), what could I read that would give me gear envy and a good glass shopping list this year and here you are 
Nice breakdown, haven’t seen the Canon’s 24 f/1.4L Mark II so that is definitely on my hit list to try out at the local camera store!
Paul
Lovin the glass n body selections
Great post – was interested to see that the 24-105L is a workhorse for you, it’s mine “go to” as well! Thanks for sharing!
I cannot hold the fact that you usea Canon against you…
Thanks for the insight! I’m just starting out but have a Nikon 300s. Which I love but need to get better lenses!
I have been checking out a new bag liked the comparison
looks like you have the perfect set-up – a real dream collection with skills to match
i guess i’m second in line for the 8-15mm fisheye zoom…geece. how long will they torture us with that thing, anyway?
~L
Great post! Good luck to everyone on the contest!
Got to be a great feeling to wake up and do the thing you love to do. Got to love SM!
Thanks for sharing all of this! I’ve always wanted RRS gear but never dreamed of paying for it – now you make me feel like I should… bummer. Sorta.
I am not being too overly critical, but I think that you need to get out of the office more. Both bags look entirely too clean and the same could be said of the gear
I love the desk set up though!
I wish I could travel around as much as you!
I don’t really get out that much, I am just jealous and used some Internet bullying to try and make myself feel better
i love the sound of this gear package – and i’m definitely keeping my eye out for a kiboko bag, it sounds like exactly what i’ve been looking for!
I always love to see what other people are shooting with and what they are doing with it. I’m a new student trying to pursue a BFA in Photography and Graphic Design so I’m always looking for ideas, gear information, etc. Please keep up these posts to help those of us just starting to learn.
great looking print and informative post. thanks!
Great post. It’s interesting to hear that the RRS tripod is well work the money.
Still on the hunt for a 70-200 of my own for the kit, although my bag is heavy enough. hrmm. Nice print =) I love metal prints.
You seriously have me drooling over all that nice gear and lenses in that bag!! Coupled with some awesome skill, I’m guessing!
I’m starting to think about what to get when I upgrade for body, and it was between the 7D and 5DII… If you could only have one, which would it be??
Somehow this just doesn’t look right. All those lenses, bodies… not a scratch, not a scuff, not a ding on `em. Not even DUST. Those aren’t cameras, they’re museum exhibits.
And you appear to have lost your lens hoods.
Something Is Not Right Here. ;>)
Great point, re: lens hoods. I *always* use mine, they provide amazing protection.
Love this! I hope to have Andy’s setup one day
Great reading. I enjoy learning from others what they have learned over the years. A couple things I add is a rainsleeve, model release (portrait photographers).
Hi Kristie, my releases are all done via my iPhone (Easy Release)
Nice! I don’t have an iPhone, but maybe I will have to look into that! (or see if they have something for Android) Thank you!
Andy, have you compared Easy Release to other contract makers on the iPhone? I have “Photographers Contract Maker” that I like, but I was curious about others.
Also- here’s a couple of other good Photography apps to check out:
-Depth of Field Calculator (self explanatory)
-LightTrac (very cool app, let’s you “find the perfect light conditions, time and location to photograph their subjects anywhere in the world.”…basically, it’s light maps, but witht he position and angle of the sun built in).
-and of course, SmugShot ;D
Do you know what? I never got those replacement straps that I sent in for after your big “recall” last year. Anyhow, I like stuff…
No problem, write our heroes we’ll help http://smugmug.com/help/emailreal.
I needed this…thanks….
Andy, I just love your bag of goodies. It sucks to drool over other’s things. I need to find me a great to get some of the goodies you have in your bag.
Thanks for the insight! Love the photos on your wall. One day when I get the lens for it, I will take some landscapes to cover my walls 
Thanks again for a glimpse into your world.
Kim
What a beautiful photo!
I’m working my way up to equipment like that. Slowly but surely.
I never leave home without The Photographer’s Rights or my business cards. You never know when you may need either of them.
You have some very nice toys there.
I love it! Thanks for all the great info. I love getting to know what people use!
I love seeing what a fellow Canon shooter has in his/her bag. Gives me ideas and makes me rethink my own collection of “stuff.”
Great info on the backpacks too – and the tripod.
Lots of great info here.
Thanks.
Va
Nice kit Andy! would love to have a 5d mkii, Maybe somday when I actually make money at Photography!
Love the picture above your computer screens! Thanks for letting us look in your bag!
I have major glass envy.
Thank You..as an amateur, peeking into others’ bags can teach alot…just reading blogs can be so educational. I love shooting landscapes too…wish so much that I could afford to go someplace exotic, but, the good thing about landscape is….no matter where you are, there is one. It’s just in how you look at it.
Envy.
You have an awesome set up. The thing about photography, you can never have all the stuff you want unless you’re totally loaded or you live with your parents.
Note, get a 7D to keep the 5D2 company.
Thanks for great information
You have a chiropractor in that bag too?!
I just love that SmugMug has a blog and cares enough about all the members to keep it interesting and fun! It’s just stinkin’ awesome!
I’ll keep shootin’ for the stars…..
Hi Andy! As a new Photographer, this is a dream!!! Loved seeing the equipment that you use, not just carry around. Give me some wonderful ideas!! Thanks, I love your work!!!
I felt like I was caught red-handed when reading your intro, I do enjoy checking out other people’s gear. Thanks for sharing your setup with us! I’ve been wanting to buy a Canon 24-105L for a great all-around lens for traveling light.
Your bag = awesome. My bag = not nearly as awesome. Great prints though
LOVE the gear bag and contents!!!! Thanks for sharing!!! Would love the metal print too!!!
Andy, thanks for the blog! “…Vitamin “M” – Motrin!”
Unfortunately I can’t get anything out of this post since I shoot Nikon…shame. Just kidding! great post, will help guide me in some needed condensing when I am just out and about.
Nice shot. Really well done!
Awsome stuff might just have to pick me up one of those tripods…. I like your bag too……
Wow, those HP monitors look tiny in that pic, haha
I love all the things you have in your bag! I would love to add to mine! I have been wanting “better” gear than what I have now! I am a new photographer. . .usually I do photos as a hobby but love to learn more and more! Thanks
Thanx for the peek behind the professional curtain
Wow…What a stunning image.
Love to hear what others are finding success with! Thanks for the article and giveaway!
sarah@sarahcrank.com
Thanks for the peek inside the bag – I love the bigger backpack, and I think you inspired me to go take more landscapes and get a metal print panoramic of my own – gorgeous!
Nice contents
Wow, I guess I have a lot more stuff to buy! I shoot with a Nikon. Any suggestions for a good zoom lens? I also keep a fresh pack of mint gum so as not to overpower my subjects
Hi, Nikon really has some awesome zooms. My faves: the 14-24 f/2.8, the 70-200 f./2.8 and the 200-400 f/4VR
all very cool
I always love to hear about what gear others use and love. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the fun post. Off to get a kleenex to wipe up the drool
It was really great to see a good breakdown of the gear. it helps give me hope and excitement to know I am on the right track in filling my bag.
I also wanted to know, does the metal rpint include the nifty photographer reflection on my wall to?
Thanks for the blog, It is true when you start out we want to carry EVERYTHING! Nice to see the breakdown!:)
I have been wanting the 24-105L for awhile because of it’s vast variety of use. One filter I do enjoy using apart from the CPL and ND filters is the Reverse GND for sunrise/sunset shots. It has really made some great shots happen!
Thanks Andy,
This is such a gear head activity, fun to see what gear the pro’s use. I’ve been looking at the Crumplers bags, what do you like about the Farmers over the current model?
I tried the C-List, and also both “Barge” models – they were too-big and heavy for my taste.
Really you have a nice set up! I was thinking the same thing that others have said, that it looks too clean to have been used so much out in the field. Although I was also thinking as I was reading that there must be something wrong with me that I must not be taking care of my equiptment very well! Its good to know that others are like me! Great peak into your bag, although I shoot with Nikons at this time but have wondered about going back to Canon. I use to shoot Canon back in the film days.
Great article. I really enjoy taking landscapes and will have to look into some of the great gear you have!
Did you ever do what your Mum UK (Mom US) told you, Its bad manners to put your feet on the table. Get your bl**dy feet off the table and do as you are told. ;-p
lol
And its a shame your a Canon user…… suppose Ive blown my chances of winning the print
Droooool!
Reserved a space on my wall.
I have the Nikon version of the 135 f/2.8, and it’s a lot of fun. Very creamy bokeh, and easy to focus. Crumpler is also my bag vendor of choice. I love their stuff. Thanks for the post, and the chance at free stuff.
I read the entire post and not just skimmed over it neither. Thanks for sharing.
That photograph is absolutely amazing!! While I don’t have the budget yet to have a setup like this, I am just taking my first steps into photography with my D3100. It’s definitely nice seeing what other people use for lenses and what they are indeed good for.
This was a great read, Thank you.
If I was wealthy and could go buy a dream camera, would I choose Canon or Nikon? Why? (Thank you…)
Great write-up Andy! I’m also in the process of switching to primes although it would be hard to keep the 24-70 in the bag. Thanks for the Photographer’s Rights link too!
Nice write-up. I’m still working on my “perfect” all around day pack setup – this is pretty ideal!
Very interesting article and some really great gear — I am drooling over either of the wide angle lenses, and the Kiboko bag. The gear bag give-away is a fantastic event. I love photography and all the neat gear!
Andy – cool. I collect fortune cookie fortunes
I have some pins – maybe we can make a trade? There’s not any good places with fortunes where we moved 
Would love a metal print for the wall to show off to clients!
i wish i had your gear and the bag to hold it all!! i covet the 24mm….
Nice write-up. I think arriving at the “perfect” gear carry/setup is as elusive to me as the holy grail was to the knights of the round table
.
I only wish I had the stuff in your bag in my bag. Hey, If I can remember all my memory cards and extra batteries, I’m doing well.
Thanks for letting us into your bag =) What an experience! Just got a 60D and now looking for more GLASS…Rodeo and horse events are my favorites!!! Can’t wait to have more photos up on Smug Mug!
love your setup, so jealous!
Your equipment comments with the “why” in addition to the “what” is very helpful – it’ll save a lot of time in shopping for similar use. Thanks
I think you need a caddy! Nice set up with great gear! Thanks for the info.
I bought a “Crumpler 5 Million Dollar” photo bag last year. Not big, but fit in 5DII and two lens. Perfect for city trips.
I can’t help but to notice you didn’t mention what kind of film you pack
Great bag and great contents. HHMMM, I have the 7D, now I just need the 5D MKII.
I am super guilty of checking out other photographer’s gear so when I saw this post I couldn’t wait to read it. You mentioned above that you are a landscaper, what do you use for rain or bad weather gear? I shoot a lot of sports photography and have been caught in quite a few storms. I have a couple of camera covers/sleeves but I’m not completely happy with them. Any recommendations?
Maria, honestly- nothing fancy – just a few large ziplocks and I always have a great big hefty bag as well, to cover things up in-between uses. I also have awesome raingear from ems.com for myself!
The image is stunning!
Personally I would rather have the very retro stylish Gumby figurine on the monitor.
–Shawn
I found your information very helpful, I also use Canon equipment and never what to carry.
Great Green Gear envy
Beautiful print thank yo so much for the giveaway. Have a great day. :0)
I work with Nikon, but it is always interesting to see what other people carry around in their bags!!!!
Hey….where is MY SmugmugPRO strap!
I love my 7d too, now to check out that 70-300!
I am always looking at other people’s camera equipment and even ask them what they have and what settings they use for different events.
This metal print will look great above my desk!
It is always interesting to see what others put into their bags. I walk around with a CompuTrekker laptop bag a lot, and that carries almost everything I’d need anywhere.
what a great lineup! sure makes mine look inferior… but it works for now
Hey nice write up. I’ve been wondering about tripods now I have a couple suggestions to look at. Thanks for the info.
JJ
i’m not even a photographer & I’ve now followed you on twitter and facebook and loving every minute of it. i’m an artist who is enamoured by images and fascinated by the process of creating them. The bag & equip now are on my Serious Bucket List!
Can we trade bags?
That kinda thing aint my bag, baby… Oh wait yes it is!
I need a new bag to carry all my equipment, so was interested in why you chose the ones you did. Weight is an important selling point for me.
Great insight. If you have any of those Tokina wide angle zooms in a Nikon mount you can send one my way.
Love the little “peak” into your bags….I kinda feel a bit naughty now!
This little journey gives me ideas….and I’d sure like to win!
Hey, I also carry a trial size toilet paper in my bag because the best shots are usually not close to a potty! I’m just sayin’…I was a Girl Scout and was taught to be prepared! (-:
Nice kit. I haven’t heard of Gura Gear but that looks like a nice, light pack.
I’m envious of your gear! I wish I had a Canon. PS:I really love the metal print, too.
Thanks for the great gear info and ideas! I think I want to find out more about the bag!
Andy, do you mark or tag your equipment in any way?
Cuong – you bet I do. My name and number are on everything – good old-fashioned P-touch labeler
Nice setup
I have a hard time thinking you ever get gear envy!
Nice pack!! I am always on the lookout for a pack that is good for my equipment and for the trek! I hope to be able to find one!!
Beautiful metal print!!!!!
I take you like the primes for the sharpness and ligh gathering. I use a Nikon and also really enjoy landscape. Do you have any info about the sharpest Nikon primes in a reasonable price range?
Nice setup!
OHOHOHOH! *Jumping Up and down with hand waving in the air* Pick me for the print! I love it and I am stuck in the concrete jungle for the foreseeable future.
Great post and I love that print!
That is so fancy.
I could have the same gear and bag and it would never look as good as someone else s bag. I always want what others have.
Thanks for letting us take a peek at your gear! I’m visiting the west coast this summer, so hope I can make it to Mono Lake!
Thanks for sharing, that picture is great BTW.
Hi Andy,
It is interesting to see what gear you use. I have a Gitzo tripod (CF) which is my favorite for light duty. A question, unrelated to your post – what service/technology are you using to run your short url service?
Thanks.
Ed
hmmmm, I just purchased the 24-105L IS and have only had a chance to use it a few times. But so far, I am in love and it was the best purchase I’ve made! Next on my list is the 70-200 2.8L IS, but I’ve a lot of saving to do…sigh.
Fantastic post
very nice photos, and great bag setup!
These types of posts are great. As a hobbyist, I will never have such an envious collection of glass, but I do enjoy shooting with my new 50mm 1.4 on my 60D.
That’s a nice looking print. I hope I can put it on my wall. Thanks for sharing your gear with all of us.
I feel like an interloper, dropped in from another planet. A poor neglected step child, a spider from Mars. I could never imagine having a wonderful camera bag…much less all the beautiful equipment stashed in it.
But I’m a great dreamer of dreams, and I love to see how “others” live! I’m lusting after you, Andy Williams. (perhaps I should say your gear bag?). What a wonder of goodies you have just invited me to leer upon! Heaven
Love the lake shot. Breathtaking
Do you also carry around (and make subjects sign) photo rights release forms when shooting street scenes with peeps in it?
Yup, but I don’t carry anything except my iPhone and the app called “Easy Release” – super convenient and they sign right on the phone.
I’m a canon guy too…great stuff to have in your bag for shoots around town
Awesome. Jealous !!!
Drooling over all that glass
Very nice to see what you’re using now–some yummy stuff! Good to hear about the Gura bag, us girls need that lightweight gear.
Lynne, how are you doing??? I’d love to see you again sometime, you must let me come and shoot some horses running wild.
Love the gear, and the shot was nice too.
What? No flux capacito? You’ve got everything else! *wink*
Great post… Always love seeing what other photographers are carrying.
You are right, its all about OPG
It is always interesting to see.
I’m taking a look at those bags I’ve been thinking about a new one for a while.
Fantastic breakdown of your gear!!
The metalprint is gorgeous. Nice bag of lenses too. I’ve never seen so many in one bag.
I am not only coveting thy neighbor’s glass but that sweet Mac set up and working without shoes. That beautiful MetalPrint…well, it would look simply stunning in my office. And it might, just maybe, inspire me to kick off my shoes while I work
That Kikobo bag looks nice, as does the fancy Metalprint. The panoramic above your desk is superb! Thanks for the blog post, informative.
Andy, I was wondering if you might want to trade camera bags with me? Just kidding! You’ve got a great kit though, seriously! And I love your work, so I’d be psyched to win the metal print! Best wishes, Cindy
I have a similar work flow as you using 2 monitors and lightroom 3, just wish my gear bag was as well stocked as yours. I like the fact that you carry only a cir-pol and ND filter, with the digital processing capabilities and using raw you can simulate any filter effect. Always a fan of a minimalist approach.
Great shots, as far as the gear goes, thats pretty much what I’m shooting for..
Nice print, awesome bag of gear. Thanks for sharing with us what you use.
Thanks for a peak in your bag
Gave me good ideas
Love the Smug mug Promo shots too (screen shots and camera straps! Love the images on the wall more, would look fantastic on one of our walls
Cheers
It’s nice to know I have alot of the same stuff. Now I want to go out and shoot. Haha.
Brilliant Shot! Great article!
Thanks for allwing me to take a sneak peak into your gear! I’ve been known to zoom up on a camera to take a shot to see what the lens and camera type is! It’s fun to see what they have and of course…. dream! ;o)
I like that bag- shame it’s discontinued
Evan, check out Crumpler’s EU site for something similar: http://www.crumpler.eu/ I picked one up while in Europe because I liked the half-photo backpack style too and the US/Aus line no longer has ‘em.
I am always embarrassed by my snooping, this is awesome!
Great stuff Andy! Thanks!
Well that is some serious gear you have there! LOVE LOVE LOVE the pin collection on your Crumpler! I outgrew my Crumpler and passed it on to my daughter and her DSLR…. haven’t splurged on another for myself… poor me
Love the article I shoot with Nikon but the same principles can be used across the board. THANKS
I had a chance to play with that bag,amazing how light it is
Wow, great set of gear and bag!
I’ve always found it interesting to see what other photogs use. I’ve always used brand N, but het a camera is a camera, it is really what you do with it and you sir do some fine work.
I have glass envy x 1,000,000!!!!
I need to build onto my gear. Plan on getting a more in time. Such a great hobby but definitely an expensive one.
Now thats a GRAB bag!! Very very nice
fantastic image!! and really love your gear!
I am shooting with the 7D and the 17-55 f2.8 IS lens and am really happy with it. Does it compare to the 24-105??
I love hearing what others use .I’m just starting and like to see what is better to use and what better way then to hear from the pros
I’m an amateur photographer and just getting started — it’s always good to know what pro-photographer’s are shooting with!
I’ve seen plenty of fellow photographers eyeball my camera & lens, but the best way to handle this is to say “Hi!” Works every time! Then you’re free to talk photography & that part is fun!
I sport a fancy, even if slightly too small, Lowepro Versapack 200 AW. Nikon d90 body geared up with the versatile 18-105mm, plus prime 50mm f/1.8 and 70-300 telephoto, Giotto rocket air blower, a couple of lens cleaning pens, spare batteries and radio remote. Occasionally I also carry a Velvon tripod (for lack of a fancier Manfrotto) or if I need to pack tight a gorillapod. UV, Polarizer and IR filter (just for fun) and sometimes a Macro/wideangle lens extension (for the times when 18mm is not wide enough). If I am walking around without a tripod I normally carry my camera attached to a Blackrapid RS-4 strap, which would be the perfect strap if not because it doesn’t play very nice with the tripod quick-release plate.
More about my gear here:
http://jlopez.ende.cc/?page_id=308
Now get me my print
Wow love your toys. I can always use more since most all I do is volunteer. I found you Andy from Face Book’s SmugMug GIVEAWAY TIME!
Love your work, Have fun
Thank you for this post! one of the most helpful blog posts I’ve read in a long time! definitely recommending it to a couple of photographer friends. will be reading more from your blog!
Beautiful image and great blog!
Comfy sweats and ball cap – check. Barefoot work environment – check. But where’s the frosty beverage? Great summary, Andy – thanks for the tour!
Although it feels a bit voyeuristic, it is really helpful (as well as interesting) to read what you take with you for different occasions. Thanks!
I was wondering how you felt about the cushioning of the Gura Gear bag. My lowepro has great padding and I never feel nervous about the possibility of a drop. Looking at that bag it doesn’t look all that forgiving.
Hi Michael, it’s got just enough, and not too-much. I think that’s one reason I haven’t liked the big bags from other makers, way too much padding.
All I have is a crappy point and shoot camera. Thanks for making me feel inadequate:-)
Stunning photos… It’s so fun to see what other photogs are toting about with them. Puts me to shame.
Do you really read these replies? We don’t have that kinda scenery here to even attempt to shoot something as cool as that! I can imagine it hanging nicely on my wall across from my bed, waking up to a site that everyday would be so inspiring… sigh.
Yup, we read all of the replies
Love the post Andy and glad to see your gear and the post was excellent for detail. As a Canon5dMII shooter, it is very informative and helpful to see your other gear. The Mono Lake Tufa photo is fabulous! Thanks for all you do. BR, jacy
We have many of the same items; mine are just bigger and weigh much more. I think you’re on to something or maybe you’re on something?
For comparison: much less gear in my bag but way more chaos…
Glad to see you’re a Canon shooter. I LOVE my 1d IV. I need it for the speed as I shoot mostly sports. I also have the 7d which is an awesome camera for the money.
Thanks for sharing!
Absolutely GORgeous photo. I love what’s in the bag, too
Can’t wait until Katherine gets her hands on some of those beautiful lenses 
Maybe I could just borrow your gear, then my husband won’t take a machete to my credit card. He doesn’t understand the obsession.
If you get tired of carrying all that stuff let me know and I’ll be happy to make the bag lighter.
Hey Andy, I know you’re a Canon guy….I was curious if you had an opinion on the best Nikon for the type of work you do?
Dan, I’m going to shoot with a D3S and 200-400 VR when I go to Africa for a few weeks in October. That setup is su-weeet!
Nice to be able to take a peek at what someone else has….and I wish I had.
I am trying to consider a new strap and can’t decide on a hand strap or a side sling….and now I now that you use a Camdapter Hand Strap; I am going to go out and see what one is like to make a fair decision.
Thanks!
Jennifer
I love the Tokina 10-17, its the only non Canon glass I own but unique and excellent for 360 panoramas like this:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ohphoto/5613026031/
or put it on a monopod to get above the crowd here:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ohphoto/5504958280/
Thanks for sharing your loot! I found it interesting that you don’t carry a flash, or did I miss it?! Gorgeous print!!! Any details to share on where taken, camera info., etc.? Thanks again!
thanks for letting me oogle your stuff!
AWESOME blog!!! (The ugly green monster is rearing his ugly head as I salivate while seeing your bag)!!!
I really want to get a wide angle lens. Been aching for that for some time now.
Love the insight on the gear you carry.
Even as a Nikon shooter I enjoyed your gear, I too will shoot primes about 90% of the time. I just opened my smugmug Pro account and love the integration between Lightroom 3 and smugmug, makes it super easy to upload my photos. Still have lot’s of tweaking to do to my site to get it where I want it to be but love the service so far.
Thanks for the run down Andy. I am a big fan of Crumpler. I carry their 7 Million Dollar House with me quite often.
Great post and insight to what you take. Love the picture!
the only thing you left out is making sure you have the right clothes. i know that isn’t camera gear but without the right clothes forget about getting the right photo.
Now that I Have the site here on SmugMug. I need to P_ut up NEW work!~ This Bag would be GREAT WAY TO START off my summer of fun, photos, traveling, and posting them to my web site!
Kurt
Now that I Have the site here on SmugMug. I need to Put up NEW work!~ This Bag would be GREAT WAY TO START off my summer of fun, photos, traveling, and posting them to my web site!
Kurt
I have a bad case of camera gear envy! Thanks for sharing.
Wahoo! Free contests. I’ve always been curious what the metallic prints look like!
Wow very cool lens you’ve got there.. I wish to have your bag too, pricy for me hahaha.. Hey Andy, send me your photo, it will looks great on my wall also! I’ll wait for it!
I enjoy looking at the gear you use. I would like to be entered in the giveaway. Thanks keep up the GREAT work.
Thanks for sharing, and the opp. to win that nice metal print!
P.S> I like the “smug sticker” on the tri – pod.
Bill Haines
Thanks for the peek inside your bag. I love all the pins; I’ve got a collection too, but I’m always afraid that if I put them on my bag I’ll lose them.
Beautiful image Andy….even if it was shot with a Canon…LOL
Going to Newfoundland, Canada this summer shooting whales and icebergs. I am definately renting some massive glass from borrowlens
Thanks for the peek!
Love the posts, the generosity, the company. Thanks for sharing in oh-so-many ways!
Very cool. Thanks
Interesting article. The Gura Gear bag kinda reminds me of the bags Moose Peterson offers on his website. Have you done any traveling (as a carry-on bag on an airplane) with the bag? Best regards!
Yes, and another great thing about this Kiboko bag from Guragear.com is that it fits even in the tiny overheads on regional jets.
I think it is time for me to do some editing without my shoes on! I think it will give me an edge!
Great article Andy, I was in Yosemite over the last three days and one of the things that occured to me was that I needed a simpler more efficient pack design. Working out of a shoulder bag and a sling bag is a hassle and there is always something I want in the “other” bag that is the bag I am not currently carrying!!I will definitely have to look into your choices!
Thanks for the heads up on bags, been looking for a good backpack bag to haul my gear in.
ever get kicked out doing landscape work anywhere, even with the photo rights doc? Nice gear. I cram everything I have in a Domke impersonating a reporter
Oh the stories I could tell
Yeah, I’ve run into aggressive security guards, rangers, and even real cops.
…I like the pins on the bag, gave me a new idea….I have one bare wall left in the office, the pic would fit well…:)
Great ideas to keep in mind, I hope to upgrade my camera soon. To a Canon Mark II
Appreciate the info on gear. I’m always interested in learning more & this post was very helpful; thanks!!
I wish i had some sweet L glass like you andy.
My biggest problem is no matter what bag I take, I take more than I know I will use for any given shoot. I have a bad case of, better to have it and not need it, than need it and not have it syndrome.
Ah! Time to get all the gear in place! I have a lot of experience shooting stage productions. I use a Orvis travel vest repurposed for photography.
Wow … I love photography and have serious gear envy, but I wish I were not a petite little thing, all the gear makes me think of my next trip to the chiropractor !
The dream to aspire to…. at the moment it all is carried in a North Face backpack padded with t-shirts :/
Interesting how similar our gear is… But surprised you didn’t mention the 14mm f/2.8. Thanks for sharing!
Thanks for the heads up about all the new Canon lenses coming out – esp. the fisheye! It was tons of fun to look through your bag and see all of your fancy lenses.
Time for me to go shopping… that is a gorgeous print! I’d love it for my wall!
Adding to my gear bit by bit.. I can keep dreaming of all the great camera gear you have. Thanks for the chance at the print.
Thanks, I love seeing other’s gift of photography.
I love landscapes too and looking at all the wonderful mixtures of colors and textures that is out there to enjoy…a moment in time, caught forever….love it!
How about some Nikon lenses for the next give-away?
Thankyou so much for sharing your bag with us. I’m just starting out & was wondering about what other photographers have/ carry with them on photo shoots. Actually, I just learned what the world glass meant in a book I was reading last week lol. It as been so much fun researching & learning about all of the cool equipment photographers use too. I never realized there was so much stuff lol. I’m also a new smugmug member & I’m really enjoying the website. I’m looking forward to learning from you & all of the wonderful photographers out there. Thanks again for the info
Love your gear !!
Nice article. I throw my camera’s manual in there too and will soon be carrying an iPad.
Great to hear about the filters, they are always to hard to spot when spying on anothers bag!! Great work and Thanks!
I might have to investigate a few more tripods and heads. I got a nice manfrotto carbon fiber one, but it does transfer a lot of vibration on a windy day, but for lightweight, you can’t go wrong
Andy, you rock! Your equipment is to die for, and your choice of bags looks ideal. I always look forward to seeing your awesome photographs. Keep up the good work!
Nice and fast selection!
LUV the metal print, positively slobbering over the tripod . . . can I borrow it? :^)
Can I ask what you usually manage to fit in your small bag? I have been thinking of getting one lately. I panic when I go out without something, but sometimes you just can’t take everything.
Nice kit, I covet the fisheye.
Hi, sure – Camera body, lens; coupla other lenses in the lower part. Laptop (Macbook Air) and a 70-200L, flash, other lenses in the main compartment. Filters and accessories, too.
Let me guess…you never check that with your luggage at the airport, do you?
Never.
Hey Andy,
)
beautiful photo!
What a great idea on renting the big telephoto lens!! I was wondering what to do so I can afford buying it…but renting it might save me from doing anything drastic
I also like the tripods you recommend – I hike in NZ with a ~20 kg backback, so the lighter the tripod – the better for my back.. ouch!
I also have the 50mm lens, but Nikon version
amazing how cheap it is and how USEFUL!!
well, I hope all that flattering won me your beautiful landscape print! :p
))
all the best, see you around at Smugmug
Nadya
Oh!!! Gorgeous! Pick me! Pick me!!!! =D
Great article, There’s a few more items I will be looking to buy now…thanks.
I love your gear, I’m a wishlist Gear snob. Workin on it though!
A pin collector. I should send you some from my company’s collection.
…and why haven’t we seen a Smuggie pin made yet?!
Great idea!
Gotta admit, I get gear envy all the time when I see other photogs out and about =)
Beautiful shot!
Love the sticker on your tripod!
The camera bags look really nice and they definitely hold camera(s) and equipment. But I do not see any place to put water bottles and food.
I am looking forward to some day hiking trips and want a bag that will hold both camera equipment and the necessities of the trail (water and food for the day). Does anything exist that fulfills the basic requirements for both the photographer and the hiker?
Both bags hold my waterbottle and food
Love the look of that Crumpler bag. I may have to hunt for one myself…
Nice gear. Are you pleased with your ND circular? Are you using the Big Stopper? Nice photo..great work.
Hi Frank, I have Circular Polarizer and an ND 6-stop (both from B+W), and I love ‘em both.
It’S fun to see other people’s gear, and also with the explanation and history of change behind it.
And regarding the “(Those of you that know me are probably laughing right about now!)” bit… can you explain for those that don’t ?
I can be a bit of a gear-whore.
Hi Andy- I love peeking into your bag. Nice validation for me that I’m on the right track saving up to upgrade my 40D to a 7D! I will definitely check out the bag itself, too. I would love a new bag that is lighter! Thanks for sharing!!
Nice bag. Nice picture
Nice Picture !!!
Love the prints, love the set up……love the bag.
Mmmmmm! What an amazing view!
Would look GREAT on the wall across from my desk…
You can tell a lot about a man by his toys. In this case I am talking about the Gumby leaning over the monitor…
Haha Jimmy, very observant!
IR-Converted! Where did you have the conversion done? I’ve heard it can be done. Is the camera only IR now that it has been converted or can you switch back to regular photography as well?
Roxane
Hi Roxane, I use Lifepixel – and yes, I convert it so it is full-time IR. I’ve converted P&S and DSLR bodies there, great work.
Thank you for the info. Can an ordinary person do this or is there some technical knowledge involved? Thanks Andy!
Roxane
And Roxane, anyone can do it – just go to lifepixel.com and see
More than the gear in the bag, I’m always checking out other photographers’ tripods. I’m not happy with mine, and seriously envy your carbon fiber. I have a bad back, and my heavy tripod sits at home when I should be using it.
Thanks for the peek into your bag. I love the tripod! Nice to see someone keeping it simple. Thanks.
Love this gear overview, that is some really impressive gear.
Thanks for sharing Andy. I always appreciate to see how other people pack and travel with their gear. I have a perfect place for that frame in my office at work
Hee hee lots of goodies but especially love the feet propped on the desk ! Too funny!
Nice equip! I hope to someday be there
Thanks for sharing. Nice post!
Looks like i’m a little late on this, but I do enjoy the gear he has!
That print looks awesome!
Thanks for the article Andy. I love seeing what other photographers
).
use for equipment (like a lot of the people commenting
A couple of questions that I have:
• How much memory are you running your MacPro with?
• Have you had any experience with any of the Crumpler camera straps?
Again, thanks for the article and look forward to seeing your pictures from Africa!
My Mac Pro has 16Gb of RAM. I rarely shut it down, and am always running lots of apps and using tons of RAM, so more is always better IMO. Yes, the Crumpler straps are nice, but IMO you can’t beat SmugMug’s strap
http://smugmug.com/free-stuff
Andy,
Many thanks for the replies!
This is a great print!! It would look great on my wall
Good information – I think I need to shoot with my 50mm more often.
Always fun stuff.
thanks for the great service. I love that print. Good luck to whomever gets to call it theirs.
Exceptional equipment!! Thank you for sharing!
DANG… Just as I think I’m gaining on gear, tech, and bags… Andy sends me back to the dark side. You know, where you’re in the twitlight zone, blindly bumping around, saying.. I want that… I need that… argh!
I am so glad to see that you have a mentor nearby … Gumby to the rescue!! I too am a Canon-ite and began drooling when I saw the first red-ringed lens in the photos. Thanks for sharing your perspectives and if there are any secrets on how to get the ‘free’ stuff from the camera gods it would be greatly appreciated if you could pass them on. Thanks again and I hope Pokey is somewhere nearby!
You have got some great equipment!
Thank You Andy for sharing your equipment. I also am a proud owner of a Canon 7D. Nice to know that well known photographers like you use the same camera as I do.
Kinda making me realize it is getting pretty close to the time I need to replace my beat up old comfortable worn out bag.
Very nice, I should make a list of everything with pictures of it all, could come in handy if it is lost or destroyed or stolen.
I always enjoy reading what lenses people use. I am always looking for a good deal on big lenses for wildlife.
Thank you so much for taking the time to write this article. I am so glad I found your blog!
You have cooler stuff then Batman AND James Bond combined!
Thanks for sharing, Andy! I’ll probably be in the market for a new bag before too long, I might need to look for a Crumpler Farmer’s Double.
The article was very interesting. I always like to see what others carry to think about if I am not fully prepared in my ideal setup. I had the 24-105 on my 7D and thought I made a mistake and couldn’t sleep until I sold it and bought the 24-70 2.8 and I wish now that I had kept it and used the difference money to buy another lens. Great photos.
Hmm, I also sit with my feet on my desk while viewing photos with my dual monitor setup. I need a bigger print on the wall behind the monitors.
Very nice picture, if only I could take one of such a picture in my lifetime.
A truly wonderful collection of high performing lenses indeed.
But aren’t you interested to now upgrade to Canon’s NEW even more wonderful 12-800mm 1.2f IS II, USM that only weighs 11oz and immediately images all models to resemble Brazilian Alessandra Ambrosio? It’s only $1.5 million
Love you guys, you’re the best
It’s nice to see a well rounded photo kit and the reasons behind keeping each bit of gear. Thanks for sharing. The print is lovely, too!
I love your blog and SmugMug. I have a Canon Rebel T1i and love the photos I am able to take with it. Thanks for sharing your equipment and lense info.
Thank you for sharing your photo gear secrets!
Great blog and so true with Andy’s observations.
Hey Andy,
Thanks for the peek inside the bag. Do you use screw-on filters or “Cokin” style?
Cheers,
Bob
Hi Bob, I have screw-on filters.
Awesome entry and the gear is awesome. The photos are fantastic. I’m hoping I’ll be the random selection! Cool stuff!
Even the picture of the picture is sharp on that wall…. is it a Gigapic?
Hi Matt, it’s about 1/2 Gigapixel, and comprised of 50 frames from a 5D Mark II.
Wow, the contents of my bag are nearly identical! Except for the glass, the 5D MKII, the hand strap (I’ll be gettin’ one), the fiber ‘pod w/ xtra head, but other than that. Good point about the 1Ds MKIII, ‘but why?’
Lots of really nice gear Andy. My jaw dropped when I saw how much that CF tripod was worth. WOW! But hey, if it does the job the way you want it to and you can afford it, why not.
Hi Geoff, it’ll last a lifetime and then some, so on a per day basis it’s rather inexpensive. If one can afford it, or is shooting professionally, then go for it.
What a gorgeous shot! I’d love to win it.
thanks for the insight on your collection
Thanks for the look.
I always carry a pocketknife but I will be adding a leatherman type multi tool to the bag now.
Hi Andy
I would like to win the fabulous image 1/2 Gigapixel, comprised of 50 frames from a Canon 5D Mark II. I find the composition spectacular and the colours very soothing. The metal print would suit my studio decor (with your credit on it of course, especially if it comes with your reflection in the bottom right corner
Roxane
(do I feel lucky, Yes!)
I wonder if you have a personal story to share which led you to carry the Photographer’s Rights or does it go along with the Leatherman for when things go wrong?
I aspire to carry a similar bag of gear someday. . .
Oh I’ve been stopped, hassled, harassed plenty – it’s just a very useful document to have along with you when you’re out in the world shooting.
I love the souvenir pins idea. I wish I could afford all of the nice equipment. I love the Metal prints.
Canon 5D Mark II is my next NEED. Just have to get the wife to understand it is a NEED and not a WANT.
I love landscape photos, Was and still is my greatest joy, what do you use to stitch that many frames together?
Great collection of gear, Wishing that I could be out shooting in this great weather that we are having right now in Utah, got sidelined with a tarsal coalition in both feet, yes ouch, great print, you have gotta take care of those feet. Can’t have just one Leatherman, I have at least three, just in case I happen to break one, there extremely well built, tried the other brands nothing holds up to everyday use like the Leatherman, one of the greatest warranty’s that exist.
Hi Brian, many times I can use the built-in stitching in Photoshop CS5. But I also use Auto Pano Pro.
Here is some information on Photographers rights in Canadian law http://ambientlight.ca/laws/
That Kiboko bag is sweet. I need a new bag, mines getting too tight to carry everything I need on short trips. Nice breakdown on this post. Thanks..
Nice gear, and that print would look great on my wall too!
Great post Andy.. and super print. Like the Kiboko bag. For backpacks, I’ve tended to use Tamrac because the ability to attach an external lens case (or two)
when needed. I know other backpacks are similar.. Again good post!
Jay S.
Great post. I’ve been looking for a way to house my gear, granted its nothing as prolific as yours
Sweet gear setup!
Nice post! Nice print!
Thanks for sharing. I like all the pins on the side of your bag. It’s neat to see where you’ve been. I like to carry chapstick and gum in my bag.
Great post! Everything from packing the bag to uploading the results to SmugMug.
I couldn’t agree more on the 24 1.4 mkII and the 135 2 – my favorite lenses by far!
I really like that picture from Arches national park.
Awesome in depth gear run down. I shot a lot of portraits with the 50mm 1.2 a couple weeks ago its super fast.
I love your Crumpler Farmer’s Double, I’ve been looking for one myself. The print is gorgeous. I would love to go there.
What great information. Thanks for the detail. Would love to win the print. It’s gorgeous.
Great post! That backpack is now on my most wanted list!
Oh, L series glass…so nice. so nice.
I really like your idea of carrying the photographers rights with you. This is a great idea! I have had some parents come up to me screaming about not taking pictures of their children for our school yearbook. If they are at a school related event and I have permission to be there to take the the photos, they really cannot do anything. Thanks for all the great tips. I learn something new everyday at Smugmug.
Great post. I need to get an ultra-wide lens and get back to shooting landscapes again.
Is there a trick to getting your profile photo show up on this blog? I have been poking around and cannot find where this may be?
Help please.
Thanks Roxane
Hi Roxane, a wordpress login (free) will do it – so will I believe a gravatar.com ID.
Thank you thank you thank you! That is so cool!
You are the best.
(Can you feel the love)
What a wonderful metal print!! I love the colors! Thank you for the look into your bag, it helps me to see what others are using!
Great post! Thanks for giving us a sneak peek into your bag!!!!
Nice bag! Are they easy to find used?
Try posting a WTB in our flea market:
http://www.dgrin.com/forumdisplay.php?f=38
Thank you for the peak into your bag! I’m definitely adding to my wishlist after this! Also, thanks for the link to the Photographer’s Rights. That is so helpful, especially for a newbie like myself!
Amazing picture and like so many people before me mentioned, I have the perfect place to put it!
Thanks, Amber
Is that a Gumby cam on top of your monitor?
Great post, the backpack is what I would like to have. I love great camera bags..
Beautiful print, but I’m lusting after your bag and sticks!!
Good to learn from the Pros.
Would love to see one of my print on a metalprint. You got a nice set of equipment.
Just a wee bit jealous of all the great “stuff”. Thanks for the inspiration.
Talk about lens envy….make a grown man smile.
Great article. Thanks for the chance to win.
Terrific blogpost. I’m looking forward to the new Canon 8-15mm fisheye zoom–yummy!
Awesome. I love reading about gears
Nice to be nosey. I really like your computer setup.
What a fantastic prize!
everyone loves that Tokina! Thanks for the peek!!
Great post. I’m also now at the point where I only want to keep only what I use and need. I have a new 7d, which I love and a 1D Mark II, which I probably will replace eventually with a 5D. I also have the 85 1.2, which I absolutely love. It’s my favorite lens. I also have the 70-300 L IS, which is a neat and super sharp, general all around zoom. I have a 24-70, but might replace this for a fixed wide angle. Still unsure. I am, however, loving the video capabilities of the 7d and have bought a few extra accessories for it. It’s challenging but I love the creativeness that comes out of it. Take care!
Wow! I guess I have a long way to go when it comes to glass and gear. Makes me feel a bit inadequate. Haha! Can I go to Africa with you??
I love “whats in your bag posts”, that prints going to look great on my wall.
That is just about the direction I hope to eventually go with my gear
I would really love to win this.
Just switched over to a different bag myself and with similar amount of glass and two bodies. That print would look nice in the office, we have just the spot for it.
Thanks for sharing! That is a beautiful print. Can I ask where you got it printed at?
Any chance they would use that tripod as a mailing tube stabilizer when shipping me my Mono Lake print?.
Loved seeing what’s in your bag! I am quite the beginner. Just reading this added a lot to my knowledge base. That print is just gorgeous! I had already “liked” you on FB. Hope still qualify for the drawing.
Great equipment +Great photographer = the Best MIXTURE you can ever imagine! I love your photography!
Best regards from UK
Tom
Not going to have any trouble “liking you on facebook” SmugMug is the bomb!I am signing up when I go pro for sure.
Now that’s the way to work. No boss looking over your shoulder, feet up and laid back. Yep, that’s what I want.
Great read! I always find it interesting the “route’ others take in Gear collection!
i’d love a giveaway prize!
http://goo.gl/MXVT8
I wish that the Nikon family had a camera as beloved and packed with value as the 5D mark II. I have a D300, and it’s fantastic, but not full frame. I guess the D700 might be something worth considering.
Me me me me me.
I’d love to win the 24 1.4 but the metal print is lovely.
This was a great article! I have a crumpler bag myself and it’s so lovely. I get a bunch of compliments for it and best of all, its practically water proof! I went to the beach 2 weeks ago and as luck would have it, the tide tried to wash away my bag and everything with it but thanks to crumpler’s sturdy material, NOTHING inside was wet!
Was hoping to see that 100 2.8 L macro in that gear list! I just got my hands on that lens! My first L! I’m super excited about it!
My names Andy too!! we should trade bags!!
Great giveaway! I’m bummed. No desiccant gels inside your bag
Nice bagful.
Really cool to read about why you choose your bags and the pin collection on your bag is super awesome!
7D and 5d MkII The two sisters are sleeping in my Kata Bag…now I0m dreaming your light tripod and a wide lens, like the 8-15
Great article! Always interesting to see what other people bring with them. The info about the backpack is great as I am searching for a new one at the moment.
Loving your work and everything in that bag Andy!!
I hope to one day have all this great gear. Im just a rookie earing for a shot to make the pros.
Wow I really love all the amazing glass you can carry in your bag and your Canon 5D Mark II and a Canon 7D . The best part is taking it all to Africa this year! Can I get in your bag too? I love Africa!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
I <3 Canon 7D! I just bought mine 6 months ago and it's my favorite camera. Can't wait to take it to Europe with me next month!
Wow, a 7D and a 5DII … color me green with envy! I just ordered a 24-70 f/2.8L (my first L-glass) to go on my 7D … can’t wait to get it… maybe I’ll check out those bags.. I do like the look of the first one (Crumpler).. Great post, thank you!
I have a new image that I would really like to test out on a metallic print, so I had to join into the conversation! Recently I rented the Tokina 10-17mm fisheye zoom while traveling on tall ships on the Great Lakes. It was a FUN lens. Seriously fun. In fact, I had a very hard time returning it
My bag set up is similar…
Love your posts; I learn something every time. Headed off to look at the Gura bags. Love your prints.
I have a perfect spot for that in my house. Great shot!
I’m always looking for camera bag recommendations. At the moment I use the Kata R-102. It’s a backpack type that has plenty of space to carry the gear I like to go out with. Two bodies with vertical grips, 70-200 2.8, 17-35 f2.8, 35-70 f2.8, 50m f1.4, SB-900 & SB-800. Try as I might to go out with just a camera and one lens I just can’t. When I’m asked if my bag and equipment weighs a lot I tell them I like the feel of the weight and it goes back to my days in the Marine Corps. I was an 81mm Mortarman and along with our packs, food, water and light M-16 I carried a 45lbd bipod! Granted I’m not 23yrs old but at 50 can still carry my gear around all day in the South Florida sun.
I would love to win that beautiful meta print!
Gorgeous meta print indeed. Your gear bag is so nicely organized…unlike someone I know
I’ve been thinking I need a better tripod. I’ll have to check out Andy’s!
Great stuff! love knowing what other folks have in there bag thank you Andy
Nice set up….may look into the Kiboko bag as a replacement for my LOWEPRO Trekker, nice “office” set up also……
Love this and will visit your site. I think I have the perfect image to enlarge.
Sweet as. Nice Print
Thanks for sharing what you’re carrying! And the print looks gorgeous, no doubt there.
I picked up the 7D after using Marc’s a bit on the Dgrin Shootout in Acadia in 2009 and have been very happy with it; it’s a perfect companion to the 5D MkII!
Smug mug rocks. Completely jealous of all this gear.
When I win the lotto, can I buy your camera bags & contents?
Impressive. It was great to see what you carry around. Very informative
Love the print…. and the gear — Do we get to choose which we get?
Time to get a new tripod thanks for the advice.
Love the print and the info. thx.
That is a gorgeous print!
Thanks for the post. It’s always nice to see what other people have in their bags, and see what I might want to shift around. Plus, I’m in the market for a new bag.
OH man. Nice camera, nice bad and nice work desk
Awesome print! Have just tha place for it.
Love getting the sneak peak in the bag, but I think I’m more jealous of the ‘puter & monitors!
Those metal prints are so beautiful. Great give away!!!
I’m on the market for a new bag and completely forgot about kiboko. Thanks for the reminder and peek inside you bag!
More than one winner? So excited!
Love that Kiboko bag! Nice shot at Mono lake too!
I am not sure if I am more jealous of the 50mm 1.2 or the 70-200mm 2.8. Thanks for sharing this.
Thanks for sharing! Great photo!
Some of the gear makes me drool. But thanks for admitting to packing camera manuals– I’d worried I was being neurotic. They’ve saved me more than once, however! The gorgeous shot makes me drool too– thought you’d gone to Mars. It made me spend too much time on Google Earth looking up this place. Wow!
You guy’s continue to amaze me. If I made the pilgrimage, can I join you for lunch? I promise to wear my smugger o’ the week gear! Andy, do you have a center post for that RRS tripod?
No, I didn’t get the center post – I don’t need the extra height (I don’t mind stooping a little bit) and I like the lightness of the right without it – and especially the stability.
I have a whole crate of cameras, but none of them are as nice as your gear Andy. It’s cool to know that you have the same lenses that would be on my dream list–a lot of primes. Maybe someday I’ll be able to get some, but only after a decade or so.
An excellent write-up! Thanks Andy, I have been greatly inspired by your photography,
and wow that metal print is awesome!
Thanks for this nice report.
A newbie here and I loved reading about all your gear.
Two bagger. Use a National Geographic bag for daily use and a ThinkTank for storage and traveling.
I like that bag and your monitor setup.
Love the feet!! I shoot a monthly jazz gig, and frequently have a great foot shot of the owner (she’s notorious for taking her shoes off in the middle of the gig).
Great toys in your bag Andy. Metal print is awesome too!
Thanks for sharing your gear bag info with us.
The toys are great but I Love the shot with your feet on the desk!
Ahh, now if only this was a give-away for the whole lens/tripod/kit and caboodle *drools a little at the thought*
Thanks for sharing Andy!! Makes some of us just a bit envy =)
Thanks for letting us gain a quick peek into your bag of gear. I’m still a beginner learning the ropes, so I really appreciate learning from the pros.
Will love to win this. .Just a small request. Few of your readers doesn’t have facebook account. So it would be good if you don’t make facebook entry is mandatory. So everyone will have fair chance of winning.
Great post, inspiration and wish list for a newcomer like me!
Great info and would sure love that metal print!
Oh my gosh I have never been more jealous of a bag of camera gear ever! I, like many am just looking at my first L series lens. That will be an exciting day. And I agree a good eye and a kit lens beats the most expensive L series lens and lack of talent/technique any day.
Thanks for sharing. Excellent post.
I don’t know much about the art, I saw my brother had been looking at the photo though and thought what the heck maybe I could win and give it to him. Weirder things have happened. The photo is beautiful also. !!
Thanks for allowing us to “peek” into your bag! I rarely wonder what’s in other photographers bags but I always look to see if their sporting glass with that pretty red ring! All the best & happy shooting.
Travis
Thanks for the peek inside the bag. It is great timing as I am just back from my first “unsupervised” shooting experience on vacation. The biggest complaint I had was the weight of the gear I was hauling around. I figured most of the weight was in the heavy/cheap tripod and the info about your setup is great timing. I am hoping that this year I can move from the DevBobo style panorama to something a little more precise.
I am not complaining though as the panos are still very successful for what I use them for.
In terms of the Leatherman, I have the same challenge and finally found a good solution for plane flights. It is not ideal but it does work. A few years back my company gave away a multipurpose tool & flashlight (not the vendor we used but a good picture http://www.4allpromos.com/s/p15265/multi-purpose-tool-flashlight.html) that has not been stopped a single time yet by airport security with over 150 trips on it. If they do catch it, well I might have more in my drawer. Yes, it is missing a knife but most of the problems have been solved with the screwdriver.
I am curious do you do all your “chimping” on the back panel of the camera or do you use another display? I have been bringing over displays but am still fighting the weight to chimping issue. I have tried a MacBook and an iPad but have not found a solution for the iPod.
If I chimp, it’s on the camera. I don’t use anything else.
Thanks Andy. I’ve been looking for a new bag and that has great possibilities for me. Appreciate the peek!
Man, have I got gear envy. Love that Crumpler bag too.
And I thought I was the only one who collected pins! Great article and your pics prove you don’t need every lens made to take great shots. You need a keen eye and a good brain ( good select glass just helps!)
spring is beckoning
Gura Gear bag sails away
with my fisheye zoom
I love my bag I only wish i could mount my tripod to it.I do urban decay photograph’s and on occasion I have to climb a barb wire fence. I have made a holster for my mag light on it. What bag would you suggest I us? Remember I have to fit into small openings, scale fences and avoid homeless squatters so it can not be to bulky.
Thanks for sharing Andy. Just got back from hiking and visiting family that I have never met before and i really need to change how and what i carry.
And that is a beautiful photo…
Awesome, post! Thank you for sharing this!!
I’ve yet to find the perfect bag or tripod. This helps! Thanks Andy.
I love the info, thanks!! Makes me wanna go shopping!!
Definitely an interesting read. Thanks for posting.
Love the gear. Hope post #551 is a lucky number for a post.
Someone REALLY needs to start a “Bag of the Month” club. Saves all the shopping… just wait for the latest “perfect” bag to show up in the mail.
Amazing print! Hope I win!
Thank you!
Doug
I’m more curious on some of the stories about the pins on the Crumpler….
Very NICE gear Andy! Thanks for making it available in this … Would love to win it. Not long ago replaced my wife’s 30D with a 50D was holding a 5D in my hand after just looking at a 7D. She could not figure out how to shoot the 5/7D cameras and since it was her camera that got stolen I sacrificed; got the 50D and have loved using it with her and teaching her how to step away from the program setting. She has a great eye and great luck it is really fun to watch her with the camera, especially now as she is shooting with new settings for her.
Just got my smugmug strap too!
Excellent Gear bag Andy but I would expect nothing less.
Lovely shot and thanks for sharing. I now have a serious case of gear lust!
Very interesting to see what the pros carry, thanks for the look!
I love that type of bag. Mine is the Tamron version, I just wish it had more pockets! Got my smugmug strap!
Excellent gear. I just have to convince the wife to let me get the 5DMII. Maybe by then the MIII will be out.
Anyone know of a good messenger bag that will fit a laptop, tablet and a camera? Not asking too much am I?
I loveyour gear and have total envy even though I shoot nikon your work is amazing thanks for sharing
When will I get my strap?
Hang in there, promise you’ll get it.
Yay thanks they look so comfy
Cool sneak peek Andy! Wondering if you have an awesome monopod tucked somewhere in that gear bag somewhere that you’d highly recommend? And how ’bout a video mic and light(s) for some top-notch 5DM2 HD? Or is your focus primarily still on stills?
Hi Sam, I use a Gitzo monopod, got it within the last year. Love it.
Beautiful pic
Well my gear sucks…but hey, I LOVE using it…it’s what I can afford and it doesn’t stop me from getting out there,,,FYI I am 60 too and prefer Tylenol Arthritis as my shooting buddy,,,never thought of the knee pads…