Gear Guide For the Outdoor Photographer | Bags, Lenses, & More

I'm Tiffany Nguyen, a professional outdoor and adventure photographer, and I’m beyond stoked to share a curated gift guide for my fellow outdoor enthusiasts and photography junkies.

I compiled this list of my favorite photography and videography gear for anyone looking for lightweight and quality cameras, lenses, or filters while traveling. Having the right gear is essential to the artistic process (and makes for an easier travel day!), so I’m sharing the gear I’ve been using lately that works best for my lifestyle. I’ve tested many cameras, lenses, bags, and gimbals on the market — so I’m sharing my favorite items to help make your holiday shopping a little easier this year. Let's dive in.

1. Online Landscape Photography Course

An online digital course that never expires! You’ll learn how to take compelling landscape photos, compose a photo that tells a story, editing techniques, gear tricks, and more. Follow along as I show you my favorite spots to photograph in Yosemite while showing you the ins and outs of perfecting your creative muscles. With over 2+ hours of rich content on personal insider tips, this is the best and most timeless gift for your friend wanting to take their skills to the next level.

2. Sony Camera Set-Up and Shooting Guide

Another online course for high-quality instructions and education about the best camrea gear for serious outdoor photographers. I review the ins and outs of my personal camera gear, menu settings, and personal tricks to nail the perfect shot every time. I've been a personal Sony user and customer for decades, as their cameras and lenses have helped shape my highly successful photography career. If a painter can't be without a good paintbrush, a photographer can't be without quality camera gear to last a lifetime.

3. Sony Alpha 1

The Sony A1 is easily the best photography camera I’ve ever had. This delightful tool can genuinely do it all, and I’ve been so happy with its performance throughout every challenging photoshoot I’ve thrown at it. This camera excels in capturing both photos and video. Its lightning-fast autofocus with the ability to take 30 frames per second has elevated my workflow and given me even more confidence when shooting in the field. It’s an absolute beast of a camera and a true winning gift for any loved one looking for something to match their professional skillset.

4. Sony 16-35mm F/2.8

This is hands down my favorite lens for landscape photography. I shoot various outdoor landscapes that require a full panoramic view of a vista, so having that wide field of view is essential when capturing vast natural scenes. It’s also incredibly lightweight and pairs perfectly with any Sony Alpha camera — making it a high-quality yet compact setup for professionals and hobbyists alike.

5. Sony 24-70mm F/2.8

If I could only carry one lens, it would be the 24-70mm lens from Sony Alpha. Its wide focal length and near-perfect range make it a versatile option for nearly shooting situations or landscapes I've traveled to. Due to its exceptional glass and low aperture, the lens also performs beautifully in low light, so I can keep shooting beyond golden hour every time. This is the best go-to lens for any mirrorless camera Sony users wanting a do-it-all option for their minimal photography toolkit.

6. Sony 70-200mm F/2.8

This lens is ideal for photographing expansive landscapes with rich layers, as it compresses the scene to deliver the profound depth you desire. It's responsible for some of my all-time favorite captures, offering a distinctiveness that stems from the unique depth it produces. While it's not typically part of my gear on lengthy hikes, I never travel without it; I'm constantly pursuing fresh perspectives. It's available in two price categories based on aperture: you can opt for either the F/4.0 or the more expensive F/2.8.

7. Sony 35mm F/1.4 GM

I love this prime lens for its enhanced creative control, enabling a sharp focus on subjects against a backdrop of buttery bokeh. As someone who prioritizes traveling minimally, I find the lens's compactness perfect. Additionally, its wide F/1.4 maximum aperture is a significant advantage, affording me greater flexibility when capturing photos and videos in low-light environments.

8. Moment AntiGlare CPL Filters

I always carry a circular polarizer filter (CPL) because it’s essential for midday shooting to cut unwanted glare and add richness to your colors. It’s an accessory you’ll want to have whenever you’re shooting near a body of water, a car, or anything that reflects a ton of light flares. It also acts as the perfect barrier between the tip of your camera lens and the ground during a brutal hit; the filter is much more affordable to replace or break than your lens, trust me!

9. DJI Mini 3 Pro Drone

This ultra-lightweight drone is versatile enough for nearly any situation. There are moments when I aim to capture a scene from an aerial vantage point, offering a unique perspective only aerial photography can provide. This compact and best-selling DJI drone doesn't compromise quality, delivering high-resolution images and videos without fail. Its highly portable nature ensures it's a constant companion on all my adventures. Plus, the long battery run-time is perfect for long days in the mountains without an outlet nearby.

10. DJI Osmo Mobile 6

The DJI Osmo 6 is perfect for capturing high-quality videos on your phone. It’s super easy to use and affordable, which is a plus. I’ve been using it on all my trips to get smooth video clips for Instagram stories or TikToks, and it works just as perfectly as a tripod or selfie stick.

11. WANDRD PRVKE 21L

If you’re looking for a camera bag that is not only good-looking but highly functional, this is the one for you. I’ve tested many backpacks throughout my decades-long photography career and used this one for many years through rugged use. It comfortably fits my camera bodies, multiple lenses, accessories, and other essentials. I love that it has a dedicated ICU pack and rainfly to protect my gear from heavy rainstorms during overnight camping trips.

12. Moment Tech Tote

A tote bag is a must-have, seriously. I always grab this one for overnighters because it can totally handle my laptop, camera gear, and, of course, snacks. Plus, it zips shut—no more stuff falling out, which is awesome! It's my go-to carry-on for flying and road trips since it fits everything so neatly, and with an extra insert, even my camera gear finds a cozy spot.

13. Moment Fanny Sling

This 2L fanny pack rocks for pretty much anything. It's great for toting my must-haves, like when I'm checking out a new city or hitting up a short hike with friends. It's not just for my phone or wallet; there's extra room for additional gear. Plus, it's perfect for cinching a smaller bag when I'm doing a chill walk around new spots or trailheads. It's versatile, handy, and won't break the bank, especially for its incredible quality compared to other slings.

14. Moment Rugged Accessories Case

When I pack my camera gear, I prioritize keeping everything neatly organized, each item in its own spot. This compact case, with its cushioned interior and sturdy outer shell, ensures my equipment is stored safely. It's my preferred choice for carrying my drone and all associated accessories.