Our Photography Setup for Travel Vlogging

After three years of documenting our travels across 30+ countries, we’ve learned a thing or two about what photography gear actually works when you’re constantly on the move. Today, I’m sharing our complete setup – the good, the bad, and the “why didn’t we think of this sooner” moments.

The Core Setup

Main Camera: Canon EOS R6 Mark II

This is our workhorse. We upgraded from the original R6 about six months ago, and the difference is night and day.

Why we chose it:

• In-body stabilization that actually works (crucial for handheld vlogging)
• 4K 60fps without crop (perfect for cinematic shots)
• Dual card slots (never lose footage again)
• Weather sealing (survived sandstorms in Morocco and rain in Iceland)

The reality: It’s heavy. Like, really heavy. But the image quality makes it worth the back pain.

# Our typical camera settings
Mode: Manual
Aperture: f/2.8-f/4 (depending on lighting)
Shutter: 1/60s (for 30fps) or 1/120s (for 60fps)
ISO: Auto (max 3200)
White Balance: Auto

Lenses: The Holy Trinity

We carry three lenses, and honestly, that’s probably one too many. But each serves a specific purpose:

1. Canon RF 24-70mm f/2.8L IS USM

The workhorse lens. This stays on our camera 70% of the time.

• 24mm for wide shots and vlogging
• 70mm for portraits and details
• f/2.8 for low-light situations
• Image stabilization that works with the camera’s IBIS

Pro tip: The 24mm end is perfect for vlogging when you’re holding the camera at arm’s length. No more “where did my head go?” moments.

2. Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM

The wildlife and landscape lens. This is what gets us those epic shots.

• 200mm for wildlife and distant subjects
• f/2.8 for beautiful background blur
• Heavy as hell but worth every gram

Reality check: We use this maybe 20% of the time, but when we do, it’s magic.

3. Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM

The portrait and low-light beast. This lens is pure magic.

• f/1.2 for incredible bokeh
• Perfect for portraits and food photography
• Lightweight compared to the zooms

The catch: Manual focus only in low light (the autofocus struggles at f/1.2).

Audio Setup

Primary: Rode Wireless GO II

This changed everything for us. Before this, our audio was… well, let’s just say it wasn’t great.

What we love:

• Wireless (no more cables getting tangled)
• 32-bit float recording (forgives mistakes)
• Dual recording (backup audio always)
• Tiny and lightweight

Setup:

# Our typical audio workflow
1. Clip transmitter to subject
2. Set receiver to -12dB gain
3. Record to camera AND internal memory
4. Sync in post using audio waveforms

Backup: Rode VideoMic Pro Plus

For when wireless isn’t practical (like in crowded markets or windy conditions).

Why it works:

• Supercardioid pattern (rejects background noise)
• Built-in high-pass filter (reduces wind noise)
• 3.5mm jack (works with any camera)

Stabilization

Gimbal: DJI RS 3 Mini

We tried the full-size RS 3, but it was too heavy for travel. The Mini is perfect.

Features we use:

• Quick release (switch between gimbal and handheld)
• Phone app control (adjust settings on the fly)
• Follow focus (for smooth focus pulls)

The learning curve: It took us about two weeks to get smooth footage. The key is practice and not overcorrecting.

Tripod: Manfrotto Compact Action

Why this one:

• Lightweight (under 2kg)
• Compact (fits in our carry-on)
• Sturdy (survived Iceland winds)
• Quick release (fast setup)

Storage and Backup

Memory Cards: SanDisk Extreme Pro

We use 128GB cards and never fill them completely.

Our system:

• 3 cards per camera (primary, backup, emergency)
• Never delete on camera (always format after backup)
• Label everything (date, location, content type)

Backup: LaCie Rugged SSD

1TB external SSD for daily backups.

# Our backup workflow
1. End of day: Copy all footage to SSD
2. Verify files: Check file sizes and integrity
3. Cloud backup: Upload to Google Drive (when WiFi allows)
4. Format cards: Only after triple verification

Accessories That Actually Matter

ND Filters: PolarPro Peter McKinnon Series

Essential for outdoor shooting. We use the 6-stop ND filter religiously.

Why they’re worth it:

• Consistent exposure in bright conditions
• Smooth motion blur (cinematic look)
• Easy to use (just screw on)

Extra Batteries: Canon LP-E6NH

We carry 6 batteries. Yes, six. You’d be surprised how fast they die in cold weather.

Pro tip: Label your batteries with numbers. When one dies, you know exactly which one to charge first.

Cleaning Kit: LensPen and Microfiber Cloths

Travel is dirty. Sand, dust, fingerprints – your gear will get filthy.

Our cleaning routine:

1. Blow off dust with rocket blower
2. Brush gently with lens brush
3. Clean with LensPen (circular motions)
4. Final wipe with microfiber cloth

What We Don’t Use (And Why)

Drone: DJI Mini 3 Pro

We own one, but rarely use it. Most countries have strict drone laws, and the paperwork isn’t worth it for short trips.

External Monitor: Atomos Ninja V

Too heavy for travel. We use the camera’s flip screen and trust our exposure tools.

Multiple Cameras

We tried the two-camera setup. It was a nightmare. One camera, multiple angles, works better for our style.

The Reality Check

What Actually Breaks

After three years, here’s what we’ve replaced:

• Lens caps (constantly lost)
• Memory cards (wear out after heavy use)
• Battery chargers (cables break)
• Tripod legs (screws strip)

What Survives Everything

• Camera bodies (built like tanks)
• Lenses (if you don’t drop them)
• Gimbal (surprisingly durable)
• Audio gear (Rode stuff is indestructible)

Our Packing Strategy

Camera Bag: Peak Design Everyday Backpack 30L

Why it works:

• Customizable (adjustable dividers)
• Weather resistant (survived downpours)
• Comfortable (even when fully loaded)
• Quick access (side zippers)

Packing Order:

1. Camera body (bottom, wrapped in clothes)
2. Lenses (in individual pouches)
3. Accessories (top compartment)
4. Batteries (always in carry-on)
5. Memory cards (never in checked luggage)

The Budget Reality

Total investment: ~$15,000

Worth it? Absolutely. But you don’t need to start here.

Beginner setup:

• Camera: Canon EOS R8 (~$1,500)
• Lens: RF 24-105mm f/4L (~$1,200)
• Audio: Rode VideoMic Pro (~$300)
• Tripod: Manfrotto Compact (~$150)

Total: ~$3,150

What We’d Do Differently

Start with less gear

We bought too much too fast. Master one camera, one lens, then expand.

Invest in good audio earlier

Bad video is forgivable. Bad audio is not.

Practice before traveling

We learned everything on the road. Not ideal.

Get insurance

Our gear is insured for $20,000. Peace of mind is priceless.

The Bottom Line

This setup works for us, but it might not work for you. The key is finding what fits your style, budget, and travel needs.

Start simple, master the basics, then upgrade. The best camera is the one you actually use.

Questions? Hit me up on Instagram or Twitter. I’m always happy to chat gear.

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What’s your travel photography setup? I’d love to hear what works for you!