Travel Photography Equipment Recommendations for Different Budgets
Are you an aspiring travel photographer looking to upgrade your equipment? With endless options and features available, finding the perfect travel photography gear can be overwhelming. However, fear not! We have compiled a list of the top recommended equipment for different budgets, to help you capture breathtaking shots on your next adventure. From beginner to professional, these recommendations will surely elevate your photography game.
The Basic Essentials (Under $500)
When starting out in travel photography, it’s important to have the basic essentials that will get you started without breaking the bank. Here are the recommended equipment options for those on a tight budget.
Camera
The most crucial piece of equipment for any photographer is a good camera. For those on a budget, we recommend the Sony Alpha a6000. Despite its affordable price, this mirrorless camera boasts an impressive 24.3-megapixel APS-C sensor, 11 frames per second continuous shooting, and a compact and lightweight design, making it the perfect travel companion.
Lens
To complement your camera, a high-quality lens is essential. The kit lens that comes with the Sony a6000 is a 16-50mm f/3.5-5.6 lens, which is a great option for beginners. However, if you want to upgrade, the Sigma 30mm f/1.4 lens is an excellent choice. Its wide aperture allows for better low-light performance and depth of field, perfect for capturing stunning portraits and landscapes.
Tripod
A tripod is essential for getting those steady shots. The Joby GorillaPod is a versatile option for travel photographers. It can be flexed to grip onto any surface, making it perfect for capturing shots in different angles and terrains.
Mid-Range Recommendations ($500-$1500)
If you have a bit more wiggle room in your budget, these recommendations will take your travel photography to the next level.
Camera
For a mid-range budget, we recommend the Canon EOS 80D. It has a 24.2-megapixel CMOS sensor, 45-point all-cross-type AF system, and a Vari-angle Touch Screen LCD, making it a perfect all-around camera for travel photography.
Lens
A great lens option for the Canon 80D is the EF 50mm f/1.8 STM. Its wide aperture and compact size make it perfect for travel photography. Plus, it’s an affordable option for a high-quality prime lens.
Drone
For capturing stunning aerial shots, a drone is a must-have. The DJI Mavic Mini is a great option for travelers as it’s compact, lightweight, and can easily fit into your backpack. It can shoot 2.7K video and has a range of intelligent flight features, making it perfect for capturing breathtaking shots from above.
The Ultimate Setup (Above $1500)
For those with a larger budget, the sky’s the limit! Here are our recommendations for an ultimate travel photography setup.
Camera
The Sony Alpha a7 III is a popular choice among professional travel photographers. With a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, 693 phase-detection autofocus points, and 10 frames per second continuous shooting, this powerhouse camera will truly elevate your photography game.
Lens
To complement the Sony a7 III, the Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM lens is a must-have. It has a versatile focal range, a wide maximum aperture, and a fast and accurate autofocus system, making it perfect for any type of travel photography.
Tripod
Investing in a high-quality tripod is essential for professionals. The Manfrotto Befree Advanced is a lightweight and compact option, perfect for traveling. It has a maximum height of 59 inches, and a load capacity of 17.6 pounds, making it suitable for a variety of camera setups.
Editing Software
To truly enhance your travel photos, investing in editing software is a must. Adobe Lightroom is a popular and versatile choice among photographers. Its user-friendly interface and powerful editing tools make it perfect for on-the-go editing.
Travel photography is all about capturing the world around us in a visually stunning way. With these equipment recommendations, you can now focus on capturing unforgettable moments during your travels. Remember, the equipment doesn’t make the photographer, so practice, experiment, and have fun with your shots! Happy travels and happy shooting.
