The Best Equipment for Family Photography

(What I Actually Use)

Best Photo Gear for Family Photographers. Jill Slagter standing with camera smiling in front of the Golden Gate Bridge.

I’m sharing the gear I actually use and recommend most often for family photography and everyday shooting— tools that are practical, reliable, and easy to live with for everyday moments and active kids.
I also share how I travel light, what I actually bring on trips, and how I document my family on the road.
Travel Photography Gear & Setup (what I actually bring on trips)

Updated for 2026

I get asked about gear all the time, so I keep an Amazon storefront with the things I actually use. It’s meant to save you time and help you avoid buying things you don’t need. It helps support my work at no extra cost to you.

Want to see all my favorite gear?

Shop My Gear

I carry two camera bodies: the Sony A7R V and the Sony A7 IV. I recently upgraded to the A7R V from the Sony A7 III, which I loved and still consider a fantastic starter camera.

I love all my camera babies, just like I love all my kids — but let’s compare them so you can decide what makes the most sense for you.

Edit: Sony has announced the upcoming Sony A7 V, which is expected to be the next iteration in their full-frame mirrorless line. While it hasn’t been officially released yet and I haven’t had hands-on time with it, early information suggests updated sensor and autofocus improvements, with a price point expected to stay under $3,000.

For most families and beginner photographers, the Sony A7 III or A7 IV remain excellent options right now and offer incredible value for real-life family photography. I’ll update this section once the A7 V is officially released and I’ve had a chance to see how it performs in everyday shooting situations.

What Is the Best Camera for Family Photography?

Comparing the Best Cameras for Family Photography

Sony A7iii

Pros: Affordable, excellent image quality, good autofocus, long battery life.
Cons: Lower resolution (24MP), aging menu system, fewer modern features, and starting to feel dated compared to newer Sony bodies.

Grab It!
Sony a7iv

Pros: 33MP resolution, enhanced autofocus, 4K 10-bit video, better ergonomics.
Cons: More expensive, heavier (barely).

Buy It!
Sony a7rV

Pros: Pros: Exceptional image quality, advanced autofocus, incredible detail, and strong in-body stabilization. A powerful option for photographers who want maximum resolution and flexibility.
Cons: Higher price point, much larger file sizes, and more camera than most families actually need.

Explore It!

My Overall Recommendations for the Best Camera for Family Photography

Quick note: I’m a Sony shooter, so these recommendations are based on my experience with Sony cameras. There are other great brands out there, but this is the system I know and use every day.

Best Overall Choice Right Now: Sony A7 IV

If I were buying a camera today for family photography, the Sony A7 IV would be my top recommendation for most people. It offers an excellent balance of image quality, autofocus, and usability, with file sizes that are much easier to manage for storage, editing, and long-term organization. It’s powerful without being overwhelming, and it’s a camera you can grow into for years.

Good Entry Point (Especially if Found Used or Discounted): Sony A7 III

The Sony A7 III was a fantastic camera for a long time and is still capable of producing beautiful images. It’s a solid option if you’re just getting started or find it at a significantly lower price. That said, it’s beginning to feel dated compared to newer Sony bodies, and it wouldn’t be my first choice for a brand-new purchase today.

Advanced / Specialty Option: Sony A7R V

The Sony A7R V is an incredible camera for photographers who know they want ultra-high resolution and advanced performance. Its 61MP files offer stunning detail, but they also require more storage space, a faster computer, and a more intentional workflow. It’s an amazing tool, but more camera than most families actually need.

MY HONEST RECOMMENDATION

Most families and photographers:
Go with the Sony A7 IV

Budget-conscious beginners:
Consider the Sony A7 III, especially if buying used

Experienced photographers needing maximum resolution:
The Sony A7R V

What Are My Favorite Lenses for Family Photography?

If you’re wondering which lens to use for family photography, I keep things simple. My two most-used lenses are the 35mm and the 85mm, and between them, I can photograph almost anything. Each one brings a different feel to your images, and understanding that difference makes choosing much easier.

85mm Lens

The 85mm is my go-to for portraits. It creates beautiful background blur (bokeh) and does an amazing job isolating your subject, which makes it perfect for capturing emotion and connection. It’s ideal for close-up portraits and headshots, but it does require a bit more distance between you and your subject, which can be limiting in smaller spaces.

35mm Lens

The 35mm is incredibly versatile and one of my favorite lenses for family photography. It allows you to capture more of the environment, making it ideal for storytelling and everyday moments. This is a great all-around choice for beginners because it works well for portraits, candid moments, and wider scenes without feeling distorted.

If you’re choosing just one lens to start with, the 35mm is often the easiest and most flexible option.

The Lenses I Actually Use

About 95% of the time, I’m shooting with the Sony 35mm GM and the Sigma Art 85mm. This combination gives me the best of both worlds: creamy, flattering portraits from the 85mm and natural, story-driven images from the 35mm.

I also keep the Sony FE 24mm f/1.4 GM in my bag for more creative or wide-angle shots, especially when I want a slightly artsy perspective or need to capture more of the space.

If I’m only carrying one lens or need maximum flexibility, I’ll sometimes use the Sony 24–70mm GM. It’s fast and versatile, but I still prefer prime lenses for their sharpness, image quality, and ability to shoot in lower light.

Quick Lens Guidance

If you love portraits: 85mm
If you want everyday storytelling: 35mm
If you want flexibility in one lens: 24–70mm
If you want it all: be like me and use the 85 and 35 with two bodies 😉

What Are My Favorite Camera Straps and Camera Bags?

Camera Straps and Harnesses

If you’re shooting with two cameras, a harness is a must. I use the BlackRapid Double harness. They have this petite (slim) option I like since i’m only 5’2’’. But they have a regular one as well: Blackline II Double Camera Harness.

When I’m only carrying one camera, I switch to the Peak Design Slide Lite camera strap. It’s comfortable, fully adjustable, and incredibly versatile. One of my favorite features is the anchor system — I leave the anchors on my camera so I can easily move between the BlackRapid harness and the Peak Design strap in seconds. The strap pops right on and off, which makes switching setups effortless.

Camera Bags

My Brevite backpack comes with me to nearly every session. It’s lightweight but holds everything I need, and it’s compact enough that it doesn’t feel bulky or overstuffed. On days when I need it, it also fits my laptop, which makes it especially useful for travel and longer shoots.