Recommended Tools & Resources
Are you overwhelmed with all the decisions you have to make as a photographer?
Are you wondering what gear to get? Are you unsure which business tools are right for you? What business books you should be reading? There are so many choices, it can feel paralyzing. I know I wasted tons of time researching when I could’ve been (and should've been) practicing photography or building my business. I searched for someone I could trust with industry experience who’d already done the research and actually used the tools to see if they stood up to the test and couldn’t find this. Over the last 6+ years, I’ve tried all kinds of tools, resources, gear, you name it, and I’m narrowed down all of my favorites here for you –– so you can use them, too!
quick note:
I am an affiliate for some of the resources on this page, which means I get a small commission whenever a purchase is made using one of the links or codes here, or anywhere else on the site. It doesn’t cost you extra. In fact, in many cases, it costs you less, because I’ve been able to snag a special deal or discount on your behalf that will actually save you money –– so it’s a win-win! Plus, you can rest assured knowing that we only endorse products and services that we use and work for us. We hope having all these carefully curated tools in one place is a blessing to you.
The client management program I use to send contracts, invoices, and more. Get 20% off your first year!
Honeybook
recommended tools
The client gallery and image delivery system I use for all of our commercial and brand sessions! Get a bonus 250 MB added to your 3 GB of free storage for signing up!
Pixieset
The online accounting program that easily integrates with Honeybook. Get up to 50% off and a $50 Visa® Card to help with your business needs when you sign up!
Quickbooks
The simple, drag-and-drop email system I use to communicate with all of you! Get 50% off your Flodesk subscription!
Flodesk
The fastest, most efficient way to choose which images to keep from a session. Try it for free!
CameraBits Photo Mechanic
The editing software I use for all of my sessions.
Adobe Photography Creative Cloud
The easiest way to deliver and sell photos from school and other high volume photoshoots. Receive a $200 credit into your account once you have made $500 using GotPhoto!
GotPhoto
The robust and EASY design system. Earn a Canva credit to get a premium element for free!
Canva
The system I use to backup my computer and hard drives to the cloud. Get a month free!
Backblaze
recommended reading - books I love
what's in my bag - kassady's gear
Starter Cameras
If you’re just starting out, these are great options:
Canon EOS Rebel T7 DSLR
Nikon D3500
Sony Alpha A100K
Starter Lenses:
Canon EF 50mm f/1.8
Canon 15/85
If you’re specializing in portraits and personal brand photography, try these lenses:
CANON 85mm F1.2L II
Canon RF 70-200mm F2.8 L IS
If you’re specializing in food and/or product photography, try these lenses:
Canon EF 24-70mm f/2.8L II
Canon EF 100mm f/2.8L IS
Not sure what you need?
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L
Canon EF 50mm f/1.2 L
* While these are some of our favorite products, Focus Creative does not own or manufacture any of these products. Please contact the manufacturer directly if you have any questions or concerns regarding the product. Our support of these products means that we receive a small commission from the manufacturer after your purchase, at no additional cost to you. We hope you love these products as much as we do!
Brand Photoshoot Pricing Calculator
free download
Learn how to price your next commercial or brand photography photoshoot and make sure you’re not leaving money on the table.
