Why My Minimalist Photography Kit Transformed My Travel Workflow
Over the years, my photography kit has gone through many changes. I’ve experimented with everything from a sprawling collection of lenses to a streamlined, minimalist setup that’s as light as it is functional. Recently, I’ve realized the benefits of traveling with a minimal kit. This decision has brought a sense of freedom to my work and allowed me to focus more on creativity and storytelling. Here’s a breakdown of the simplified kit I’m using for my latest project and how it’s been instrumental in transforming my approach
My Essential Gear: A Simplified Photography Kit for Travel
If you want to see my lightweight setup in action then check out the video below:
As I’ve worked on my personal project in Devon, honouring my father’s favourite locations, I found that a lighter kit has allowed me to focus on capturing moments rather than managing gear. My current setup includes:
1. Peak Design Sling 10L
The Peak Design Sling 10L is my carry-all. It’s compact and lightweight, perfect for carrying gear all day. Even with my pared-down kit, it’s still large enough to fit everything I need, including:
• Fuji X100Vi
• Fuji XT5 + 35mm f2 lens
• DJI Osmo Pocket 3
• iPad Pro 13” M4
• Spare batteries, Anker Nano power bank, leads, memory cards, and additional lenses if needed
The build quality of the Peak Design Sling is impressive. The outer material maintains its shape without being rigid and sheds rain well, keeping my gear dry. It has attachments for a Peak Design Capture Clip, adding versatility when I want to go even lighter. I’m even considering trying the 6L version for days when I only need the essentials.
2. Fuji X100Vi – The Beauty of Simplicity
The Fuji X100Vi has become a key part of my minimalist approach. Its fixed 23mm (35mm equivalent) lens provides a natural perspective, ideal for documentary and travel photography. Here’s why this camera is perfect for my project:
• Simplifies Decisions: With a single focal length, I no longer waste time debating which lens to use. This limitation enhances creativity, as I learn to see scenes more instinctively.
• Compact and Unobtrusive: Its size makes it easy to blend in, which is especially helpful in street photography.
• Features for Any Condition: The built-in ND filter allows for wide-aperture shots in bright light, while the leaf shutter enables near-silent shooting—ideal for capturing moments discreetly.
• High-Quality JPEGs: Fuji’s film simulations mean I can often skip post-processing, focusing more on shooting.
Using the X100Vi for this project has underscored the value of simplicity. I’ll discuss this camera further in my latest video.
3. Fuji XT5 + 35mm f2
While the X100Vi covers most of my needs, the XT5 adds flexibility to my kit. I use the 35mm f2 lens with the XT5, which provides a slightly tighter frame (50mm equivalent). The XT5’s interchangeable lenses let me adjust my focal length when I need a different perspective. And with its 40MP sensor, I get detailed images suitable for large prints.
The XT5 complements the X100Vi, offering different looks without overwhelming my workflow. It’s a perfect tool for situations where the fixed focal length of the X100Vi feels limiting.
The iPad Pro has gradually become my go-to editing tool, replacing my laptop. Its compact form factor and powerful M4 processor have proven ideal for travel. Here’s how it’s changed my workflow:
• Photo and Video Editing: With Lightroom Mobile and DaVinci Resolve, I can edit both photos and videos on the go. The screen size provides ample real estate, and the iPad’s performance rivals my desktop setup.
• Sync Across Devices: My iPad allows me to sync photos across devices, creating an immediate backup and easy access to files.
• All-in-One Solution: Lightweight yet powerful, the iPad lets me edit, backup, and manage files without additional bulk.
I’ll dive deeper into using the iPad Pro for content creation in an upcoming post, but it has already made a significant difference in simplifying my travel kit.
5. DJI Osmo Pocket 3
The DJI Osmo Pocket 3 is small, light, and incredibly intuitive. As a one-person creator, it lets me capture smooth video without needing a full-sized gimbal. The Osmo Pocket has allowed me to focus on storytelling rather than fiddling with complex gear setups, and its 4K video quality ensures my footage looks sharp.
For this project, the DJI Osmo Pocket 3 has provided just the right balance of simplicity and capability, making it ideal for both quick clips and more thoughtful compositions.
6. Additional Essentials: Anker Nano Power Bank and Chargers
For any extended shoot, I carry an Anker Nano power bank and a multi-USB charger. These are must-haves for keeping everything powered without adding significant weight. My Anker Nano power bank can recharge the iPad from around 0 to 60% and offers enough power for my other essentials, ensuring that I can stay in the field longer without worrying about battery life.
The Benefits of a Minimal Kit
Carrying a streamlined kit has had two main advantages. First, it’s light and comfortable, which encourages me to get out more. I’m no longer weighed down by extra gear, which means I focus more on capturing moments and less on handling equipment.
Second, having a minimal kit helps me focus on my work’s creative aspects. With fewer gear decisions, I’m liberated from the “what-if” scenarios that come with larger setups. I’m now working within constraints, which has led to more consistent, intentional storytelling.
Final Thoughts: Embracing Less for More
Through this project, I’ve learned that a simplified photography kit isn’t just about convenience; it’s about freedom. It allows me to explore, to see the world with fresh eyes, and to create without the distractions of excess gear. This approach has changed my outlook on photography and continues to remind me that sometimes, less really is more..
If you’re interested in learning more about this project and seeing how this minimal kit performs, check out my latest video where I discuss the experience and showcase the images.
