6 Things I’ve Been Loving for Photography Sessions Lately | Photographer Favorites
There are the things every photographer expects to have in their bag—camera bodies, lenses, memory cards, batteries—and then there are the random little things that you end up wondering how you ever lived without.
Over the years, I’ve found that some of my favorite session essentials aren’t necessarily photography equipment at all. They’re the things that keep my clients comfortable, help me create behind-the-scenes content, or simply make a long day of shooting a little easier.
So, I thought it would be fun to share a few things I’ve been loving lately and actually using during my sessions!
Whether you’re a photographer looking for a few new things to add to your bag or you’re just curious about what goes on behind the scenes at a photoshoot, here are some of my current favorites!
Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. If you purchase something through one of my links, I may earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. As always, I only share things I genuinely use and love!
1. Instant Ice Packs
Summer sessions in Charlotte can get HOT. Like, “we're taking a quick break because everyone needs to cool down” hot.
That’s why I started keeping disposable instant ice packs in my car for myself and clients.
They’re especially helpful during senior sessions, group shoots, and weddings when someone needs a quick way to cool down but we don’t necessarily have access to a freezer. I love that these don’t require anything beforehand. Just squeeze or shake the pack to activate it and you have a cold pack ready to go.
They’re also small enough that I can throw a few into my bag without taking up much space.
Photographer tip: If you photograph outdoors during the summer, having a few emergency cooling options in your bag is such a simple way to make your clients feel taken care of.
2. A Wearable Ice Ring
Speaking of staying cool…
This little ice ring has quickly become one of my favorite things for hot-weather sessions. Instead of holding an ice pack or constantly reaching for a cold drink, you can wear it around your neck and keep your hands completely free.
For photographers who spend hours outside, this is a game changer.
I especially love it for those days where I’m photographing multiple sessions back-to-back. When you’re the photographer, you’re usually moving around just as much as your clients—and sometimes more!
It’s one of those things that looks a little silly until you actually use it and realize how nice it is to have something cooling you down while you’re working.
3. DJI Osmo Mobile 7 Gimbal
This one is definitely more on the content-creation side of things, but I have been LOVING having a phone gimbal.
As photographers, we’re constantly trying to capture more than just the final images. We want behind-the-scenes videos, Reels, TikToks, clips of our clients, and content for our own businesses. A phone gimbal makes those videos feel so much smoother and more polished.
I love using mine for behind-the-scenes footage during sessions, walking clips, and content where I want the camera to follow movement rather than having someone hold my phone.
It’s especially helpful if you’re trying to create more video content without bringing an entire additional camera setup.
4. ULANZI MT85 Magnetic Phone Tripod
This might be one of my favorite additions to my session setup lately. I originally got this because I wanted an easy way to film content, but my senior girls have also been LOVING it.
At my senior rep shoots, the girls can use it to film TikToks, Reels, behind-the-scenes clips, and little videos with each other without needing me to stop photographing every time they want to capture something. It also works really well for me when I want to set up my phone and record myself working.
And because it’s tall, I don’t have to find a random table, bench, or other surface to balance my phone on.
If you photograph seniors or do a lot of social-media-focused content, I think this is one of those little pieces of equipment that you’ll use way more than you expect.
5. Handheld Portable Turbo Fan
Another Charlotte-summer essential. This little fan is tiny but mighty, and I love having it nearby during outdoor sessions.
There are so many moments when you’re waiting between locations, changing outfits, fixing hair, or simply taking a quick break where a little blast of cold air makes a huge difference.
The one I have also has an ice-cooling feature, which makes it even better when you're working outside. I’ll never underestimate the power of a portable fan during a summer photoshoot again.
Photographer tip: Your clients might forget that you’re hot too! Having a few little comfort items for yourself means you can stay energized and focused throughout the session.
6. NEEWER Phone Tripod Mount
Last but definitely not least is this little phone mount.
This mount attaches directly to the top of your camera, allowing you to place your phone above it while you photograph. It’s perfect for recording behind-the-scenes footage, creating Reels, or capturing video from the same perspective as your camera.
I love having an easy way to film myself working without needing a separate tripod or someone else to hold my phone. Since it sits right on top of my camera, I can photograph and record content at the same time. It’s also a great option for photographers who want to create more BTS content during sessions without bringing along a lot of extra equipment.
It’s small, lightweight, and takes up basically no room in your bag—but it can make creating content while you work so much easier.
The Little Things Really Do Matter
Photography is obviously about the photos—but being a photographer is also about creating an experience.
Sometimes that means having the perfect lens. Sometimes it means knowing how to pose someone who tells you they’re awkward in front of the camera. And sometimes it means having an ice pack, a fan, or a phone tripod ready when someone needs it.
These are a few of the things I’ve been reaching for the most lately, and I’m sure this list will continue to grow as I find more things that make photographing people easier and more enjoyable.
If you’re a photographer, I hope you found at least one thing here that you want to add to your own bag!
You can shop each of my current photographer favorites through the individual Amazon links throughout this post.
