If you’ve ever walked into an event with nothing but your camera and optimism, you’ll know pretty quickly that optimism won’t save you when your batteries die, your stomach growls, or the weather turns.
Ask me how I know.
Over the years, I’ve learned that being an event photographer (jackpots in particular) isn’t just about showing up; it’s about endurance. Depending on the event, you could be on your feet all day, often in the dust, the rain, or under the scorching sun, chasing shots that don’t wait for you to be ready. By the time I pack up to head home, I’m usually running on caffeine, adrenaline, and the thought of finally getting to sleep.
That’s why I’ve built my own version of a “Photographer’s Survival Kit.” It’s nothing special, but it keeps me functional, sane(ish), and (mostly) energized enough to capture every run.
Inside my bag, you’ll always find:
- Charged camera batteries and extra memory cards – the bare minimum for survival.
- SNACKS – because jackpots don’t exactly cater lunch breaks.
- Water. Always water. Dehydration makes editing sound like a luxury spa. On a good day, I even remember to grab a few frozen water bottles that typically thaw enough by the time I’m ready for them, to be able to keep me in cold water most of the day.
- Ice Capps – As far as I’m concerned, this deserves its own category…ok this one’s not in my bag, but more often than not, I’ve got one with me to get me through the day!
- A light jacket and a ball cap – because events are unpredictable, and so is Alberta weather.
- Headphones – podcasts and playlists save me when exhaustion hits.
- Portable Phone Charger – nothing worse than being part way through scrolling FB during a rake, and your phone dying!
None of it is fancy. None of it screams “pro.” But together? It’s what lets me keep doing this weekend after weekend.