With the holidays fast approaching, I wanted to share some gear that I find essential beyond the cameras. These make great gifts for the photographer in your life. They are affordable and will pay for themselves many times over. Click on the images to be taken to the items.

Binocular Harness

This harness is lightweight and can be used in 8 different positions. Easily fits in your bag and will not take up any room. Can be used in conjunction with your backpack or other carriers.

Multi-tool

Having an all in one tool to repair, cut, open, measure, file and grasp in something that fits in the palm of your hand is very handy. This type of tool is something you don’t think you may need but once you have it, it will pay for itself many times overs.

Portable USB Charger

When out shooting, power can be at a premium and having a portable power source that you can recharge in your car and carry with you so your devices are always ready to go is critical. Does not take a ton of room in your bag and will something that you will wonder how you have gotten a long without.

Apple air tags

Knowing where your gear is at all times is priceless and being able to track it with your smart device is piece of mind. These tags are no bigger than a quarter and fit in all kinds of places to keep your gear safe.

Simple white towels

Simple white towels to blot your gear dry when it gets wet and are washable are invaluable in shooting in inclement weather. Easy to carry in your coat, these are great to have.

Headlamp

If you shoot at night or do astro-photography, this is a must have. Allows for hands free shooting and is bright, not to mention it has a red light mode.

What am I missing? Anything that you carry that you find critical? Please leave a comment I would love to hear your thougths.