If you had to name your five favorite pieces of photography gear, what would they be? Maybe you have a preferred lens. Or you never go anywhere without a multitool. Perhaps there’s a particular light you rely on. We asked this question of some of our pro photographers, and they’ve very graciously let us into their kit bags. Here are portrait photographer Kira Derryberry’s five favorite pieces of gear.
1. Tethering tools
TetherPro USB-C to USB-C Cable combined with TetherBoost Pro USB-C Core Controller Extension Cable
Being able to review your work on the big screen while you are shooting is critical to getting exactly the shots that you want. The TetherPro USB-C to USB-C cable lets me do just that, while the TetherBoost Pro USB-C Core Controller Extension Cable allows me freedom to move throughout my studio.
2. Lighting modifier
Exo150 Focusing Deep Parabolic and Focusing Rod
This parabolic light by Molight is simple to set up, and provides you with crisp, clean light that’s easy to manipulate and shape. It’s exactly what you need when you’re shooting beautiful portraits.
3. Lens
Nikkor Z 24-120mm ƒ/4 S
Portrait photography relies on a great lens and I love my Nikkor Z 24-120mm ƒ/4. It swoops from wide angle to up close and always offers me a beautiful shallow depth of field. It’s versatile, crisp, and weather-sealed. It’s everything I need in a lens.
4. Stable work surface
Tether Table Aero
When you’re shooting tethered, you need a discreet but stable platform for your computer while it’s connected to your camera. For this, I like to use the Tether Table Aero. Not only is it stable, but it’s portable, too. And comes in different sizes to fit your computer.
5. Camera
Nikon Z 9
What’s a photographer without a camera? I use a Nikon Z 9. It has amazing image quality and is lightning fast making it perfect for portraits.
Parting quote
We asked Kira if she’d like to share with us a few words on what’s important to her when it comes to portrait photography. This is what she had to say:
I think the key to great portrait photography is working with gear that you don’t have to worry about flaking out on set so you can focus on grabbing great connection and expression with your subjects.
About Kira Derryberry
Kira Derryberry is a portrait photographer based in Tallahassee, Florida, in the USA. She shoots in her studio, on location, or in her clients’ homes. You can see her portfolio on her website, or follow her on Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter.
