What’s in my Camera Bag: Pet Photography
When it comes to pet photography, you don’t always have the luxury of a controlled studio environment. Pets are unpredictable, homes have different lighting setups, and sessions can unfold in ways you don’t expect. That’s why I’ve built a portable, minimal kit that lets me bring the studio directly to my clients.
This is the same setup I would rely on for portraits and headshots, since everything is lightweight, efficient, and easy to adapt on the go.
Quick CheckList: What’s in the Bag
Flash trigger (off-camera setup)
Spare battery
Lens cleaning kit
LowePro lightweight backpack (camera, lens, flash + trigger organizer)
Camera and Lens Setup
My main camera is the Canon R6 Mark II, paired with my go-to 50mm lens.
The 50mm focal length creates a flattering depth of field that looks great for both people and pets.
It produces a natural perspective that feels authentic and timeless.
The blurred backgrounds help separate the subject, whether it’s a golden retriever or a corporate headshot client.
Lighting That Travels
Lighting is where things get tricky in non-studio environments. To stay consistent no matter where I’m shooting, I bring a compact lighting setup:
Flash + Flash Umbrella – Softens light and keeps it natural.
Flash Trigger (off-camera flash) – Gives me flexibility with positioning.
Diffusion Filter – Helps keep highlights smooth and flattering.
This setup ensures I’m never dependent on the available light in someone’s living room or backyard.
Portable Backdrops
I don’t have a permanent studio, so my solution is to carry collapsible backdrops in black and white.
Black works well for lighter-colored pets (and adds drama).
White is perfect for darker pets (and feels bright and clean).
Both pack flat and set up in minutes.
This keeps sessions consistent and polished, even in small spaces.
The Bag That Keeps It Together
I use my lightweight LowePro travel backpack to carry the essentials: camera, 50mm lens, flash, and trigger organizer. It keeps everything compact, organized, and easy to set up quickly, which is critical when pets are ready before you are.
Must-Have Accessories
The little things make the biggest difference when working with pets:
Spare Battery – No one wants to pause while the camera charges.
Lens Cleaning Kit – Fur, dust, and nose prints on the lens are just part of the job.
Why This Kit Works
The key to photographing pets (and people) outside of a studio is flexibility. My LowePro bag keeps everything light and portable, while my gear ensures I can adapt to any space. That way, instead of worrying about equipment, I can focus on capturing personalities, whether it’s a curious cat, an energetic puppy, or someone’s professional headshot.
