How to take your camera EVERYWHERE!

So I talk all the time about taking your camera everywhere! But how? The phone is oh-so convienent to carry in your bag. And the DSLR is so heavy and bulky. There are so many parts!

Here are some things I do.

1. get a good strap. Don't do the one that comes with the camera. You can't be hands-free. I have going on three kids, so being hands-free is imperative.

here is one option:

This brand is $39.00 (Which is Half of what I paid).

black rapid hand-s free strap. (link to buy)

2. Get a good bag. I am a mom, so having a camera back that can hold a small DSLR with a small lens (like a 35mm 1.8 or a 50mm 1.8) is perfect. But I also want a bag that I can put a diaper and a small bag of wipes.

Here is one option of a cute unisex bag (I have have one very similar).

The leather one is really nice for church or for fun! $55.00 on Amazon. Link to buy here:

3. Get a small prime lens. It will not only make your camera lighter, but it will be more versitle in any lighting situation. I once took my Nikon d7000 with a 35mm 1.8 to vacation for an entire week and didn't even have to use flash! (We went to a water park and a museum too!)

Here is the NIKON version 35mm 1.8. (Used would be cheaper). This one brand new is only $199.00. Sell your kit lens and just buy this one. You will have so much better quality photos. Believe me!

Link to buy:

4. What other camera gear do you bring? So you have this fancy bag, a lens and a strap. What other things do you need to bring. I Also bring extra memory cards and a extra charged battery.

If you are into bringing an external flash (I can recommend a good one here: then that is helpful for indoor family time or pictures of Grandma or Grandpa. Extra batteries would be helpful.

I use RECHARCHEABLE batteries for all my flashes too! Very cost effective.

Here is the flash that I use:

Yongnuo External Flash $65. Link to buy.

I Also throw in a small Lens cleaning cloth from the dollar tree. and I always cover my lens with a protective lens cover. Totally worth the money. Instead of replacing an entire lens, I just have to replace this place. And it's great with little fingers around!

This lens shield is for the 35mm lens from above. Buy it here for $6:

So now that you are geared up, you will be surprised how many more photos you will want to take out with your family.

Christal.