What’s in my Bag? My Wedding Photography Gear For 2025

Looking towards 2025..

The Christmas holidays are already feeling like a distant memory, and with wedding season just a few short months away, now is the perfect time to give you a behind-the-scenes look at the gear I bring to every wedding. Having the right equipment is essential for capturing a couple’s big day, and I make sure I’m fully prepared for anything.

What Cameras Do I Use?

On a typical wedding day, I bring three camera bodies—yes, you read that right! You might be wondering why I need so many. Well, during key moments like the first look and ceremony, I typically shoot with two cameras to cover everything seamlessly. However, having a third backup camera is crucial—if one fails or takes an unfortunate tumble, I can quickly swap it out and keep shooting without missing a beat.

So, which cameras am I using in 2025?

The star of my kit is the Canon R5, a camera I picked up in May last year. I was a bit skeptical about switching to mirrorless at first, but after using it, I’ve been seriously impressed. Its low-light performance is a complete game-changer compared to my other cameras—it’s like night and day!

Alongside the R5, I carry two Canon 5D Mark III bodies. Originally released in March 2012, these cameras have stood the test of time and still deliver gorgeous colors and professional results in 2025. They’re reliable workhorses, and I trust them completely for wedding photography.

What's In My Main Camera Bag.

When heading out to capture a wedding, I need a kit that’s reliable, versatile, and built for any lighting scenario. My main camera bag, the Lowepro Nova 200 AW II, is packed with essential gear that helps me deliver stunning images for my couples.

My Go-To Lenses

Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art

This workhorse lens is responsible for about 80% of my shots. Released in 2017, the Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art delivers exceptional image quality with a constant f/2.8 aperture—perfect for weddings where lighting conditions change fast. I chose this lens over the Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8 II because the Sigma includes optical stabilization, which is useful if I decide to capture video clips. Over the years, Sigma has really stepped up its game, producing lenses that compete directly with first-party manufacturers like Canon.

Sigma 85mm f/1.4 DG

For intimate portraits and dreamy bokeh, the 85mm f/1.4 DG is my go-to lens. It allows me to step back and give couples their space while still capturing tight, flattering compositions. Whether it’s an emotional first look or a quiet embrace after the ceremony, this lens helps turn fleeting moments into timeless images.

Sigma 40mm f/1.4 Art

This lens might be heavy, but it’s a real asset in my bag. It provides a slightly wider perspective than a 50mm, without the distortion that can come with a 35mm. I love using it for documentary-style shots, giving a natural and immersive feel to my images.

Lighting Gear

Godox V860III Speedlite

A solid on-camera flash is a must for receptions and low-light situations, and the Godox V860III delivers every time.

Light Modifiers & Custom Gear

To shape and control light, I carry a medium Rogue FlashBender with a diffuser panel, plus a couple of homemade light modifiers that help me direct light exactly where I need it. Tucked into my bag are various other reflectors and diffusers, allowing me to adapt to any lighting challenge throughout the day.

What’s in My Rolling Suitcase

While my satchel holds my most-used gear, my Think Tank International V2.0 Rolling Suitcase carries the heavy-duty equipment that doesn’t fit in my main bag. If you haven’t heard of this bag before, let me tell you—I wouldn’t be without it on a wedding day. One of its standout features is the built-in locking system, which allows me to secure it to a post using the tether cable, keeping my gear safe throughout the day.

The Heavy Hitters

Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 Sport

This is hands down my favorite lens in my kit! Released in December 2018, the Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 Sport is an absolute beast—fast, durable, and incredibly sharp. It outperforms Canon’s own 70-200mm f/2.8 III, especially when it comes to handling flare while shooting directly into the setting sun. I use this lens as often as I can, but my 24-70mm still takes the crown as my workhorse.

Canon 100mm f/2.8L Macro

No wedding kit is complete without a macro lens, and the Canon 100mm f/2.8L Macro is perfect for capturing those intricate details—ring shots, dress embellishments, and delicate floral arrangements.

Lighting Equipment

Yongnuo YN600EX-RT Speedlites

When the natural light fades and the dance floor comes alive, my Yongnuo YN600EX-RT Speedlites come out. I’ve trusted these flashes for years, and paired with the incredible Godox system, I can place my speedlites around the venue for off-camera lighting. This setup gives me the flexibility to control the light, whether it’s for reception speeches, first dances, or creative night portraits.

My Studio Bag

For venues with challenging lighting conditions, I bring along my studio bag, which holds the extra gear I need to create consistent, professional lighting in even the darkest spaces. This bag carries my 9' and 10' lighting stands along with two Godox MS300V studio lights—perfect for receptions, dimly lit venues, or creating dramatic portrait lighting when needed. These lights give me full control over the scene, ensuring every moment is beautifully lit, no matter the conditions.

Best of Luck for 2025!

That wraps up the gear I’ll be bringing to weddings this year! I hope you’ve enjoyed this look into the equipment that helps me capture one of life’s most important events. Whether you’re a fellow photographer, a soon-to-be-married couple, or just someone who loves photography, thanks for reading—I can’t wait to see what 2025 has in store!