Essentials Kit: A Great Setup For A New Portrait Photographer

This essentials kit will serve any new portrait photographer well when they’re just starting out.

Are you toying with the idea of becoming a portrait photographer? Are you unsure about the gear you might need to hit the ground running? Have no fear; we’re here to make things a little easier for you. If you want to know what camera, lens, and accessories you should look at before you start charging clients, this roundup is for you. Pick up any of the items listed after the break, and you’ll already be on the path to success. Check out some of our favorite items for new portrait photographers after the break.

Sony a7 III

In our review, we said:

“The Sony A7 III has great image quality, autofocus, decent build quality (with reservations), and is reliable. It’s not at all a bad camera.”

Chris Gampat – Editor In Chief

Buy now: $1,698

Sony 85mm f1.8 FE

In our review, we said:

“This is, in many ways, the absolute most perfect portrait lens for most Sony camera users. If you don’t need or can afford the 85mm f1.4 G Master lens, then the Sony 85mm f1.8 FE lens is a fantastic option. It’s sharp, has less saturated colors (only the Loxia is less saturated than this), focuses pretty well with most cameras (the Batis is fastest), and has weather resistance. But it’s also small and offered at a pretty affordable price point.”

Chris Gampat – Editor In Chief

Buy now: $548

Pro Tip: If you’re shooting portraits with a Mirrorless camera and a flash or strobe, be sure to turn off the live EVF and LCD preview option. If you keep this turned on, you will not accurately see what your shot will look like, especially if you’re in a darker location.

Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 TTL

In our review, we said:

“The inclusion of the round head is obviously the biggest selling point of the Flashpoint Zoom Li-on X R2 (Godox V1). It’s well built overall, delivers consistent results, and the new twist-lock hot shoe mechanism is much easier to secure than Flashpoint’s older screw-down style. The magnetic light modifier attachment system is very easy to use as well.

Buy now for Multiple Platforms: From $225

Rogue Flashbenders V3

In our review, we said:

“By far, the latest Rogue Flashbenders are the best built ones. Not only is the buckle and velcro system wonderful, but you can mold the Rogue Flashbenders V3 into anything you want. They’ll hold the shape and you can’t really go wrong with them. This goes not only for the large and extra large options but also for the small wide one.”

Chris Gampat – Editor In Chief

Buy now: $59.95

Tenba DNA 15 Messenger Bag

In our review, we said:

“This bag is just about perfect for those who like to travel light, and the fact that it is TSA compliant is a huge bonus. Photographers who love going on photo walks with a small amount of gear will appreciate how comfortable the bag is. For those who like to carry larger lenses (think 70-200mm f2.8), like sports or portrait photographers, you’ll appreciate how versatile this bag is.”

Brett Day – Gear Editor

Buy now: $199.95