Let’s be real for a sec, busy season hits like a freight train. One minute you’re sipping iced coffee with a light editing queue, the next you’re knee-deep in back-to-back shoots, galleries, emails, and “hey, just checking in!” messages. (You know the ones). So how do I keep my sanity and my turnaround times on point? Easy: I’ve built a photographer’s survival kit that keeps me fueled, organized, and just barely on the edge of chaos (in the best way possible).
And no, it’s not just camera gear. This kit is part tech, part snacks, part mindset. Because when you’re managing a full client load and life, you need more than just fresh batteries.
Before I say more, hey, I’m Christine! Photographer, mentor, and big believer that running a business shouldn’t mean running yourself into the ground.
If you’re looking for tools, templates, or just some real-life photography advice that doesn’t feel overwhelming or fluffy, check out my resource library. And if you’re craving more clarity in your business, my 1:1 mentoring sessions are here to help you grow with confidence (and a little less chaos).
Ready to build your photographer’s survival kit? Here’s a peek inside mine, aka, the essentials I swear by during the busiest weeks of the year.
1. Iced Lattes (Because Caffeine is Life)
Let’s start with the obvious. If you’ve ever edited 900+ photos in one sitting, you already know: caffeine is a non-negotiable.
Specifically? Iced lattes. They’re cold, caffeinated, and keep me going through even the longest marathon sessions. Simple, effective, and a total staple in my photographer’s survival kit.
2. Fresh SanDisk Memory Cards
Nothing sparks joy like opening a fresh SanDisk pack.
I treat myself to new cards every season, not because I’m fancy, but because I literally don’t have time for corrupt files or lost data. If you’ve ever had that mini heart attack moment when your card won’t read, you know what I mean.
Here’s what I use: SanDisk 64GB SD Cards. They’re reliable, fast, and exactly what I trust when the stakes (and shoots) are high.
3. Dubsado Automations
Let me introduce you to my not-so-secret weapon: Dubsado + automations = pure magic.
Once I set up my workflows (shoutout to Colie James for saving my life), the stress just… disappeared. Emails? Automated. Contracts? Sent. Invoices? Handled.
I still show up personally when it counts, but the admin work? Handled behind the scenes. If you’re still manually doing all the things, it’s time to level up. Check out Dubsado here.
4. Paper Planner & iCal
I know. We’re in 2025. But listen, I need both.
Yes, I use iCal for quick scheduling and syncing across devices. But when the week gets wild (and it always does), nothing grounds me like seeing everything laid out in my paper planner.
My go-to is the Erin Condren LifePlanner. It’s sturdy, pretty, and functional enough to hold my life together.
Plus, there’s just something satisfying about crossing things off with an actual pen.
5. Laptop & SanDisk Pro SSD Drives & After Plug Pocket
This is my mobile command center.
My laptop, my SanDisk Pro SSD drives (bless them), and my trusty After Plug pocket, that’s my whole workflow in one portable setup.
I can edit in the carpool line, while traveling, or on the couch mid-snack. Everything’s organized, secure, and easily accessible. If your editing setup stresses you out, it might be time for an upgrade.
6. Lululemon 22L Backpack
Listen. I’ve tried so many bags over the years. But nothing beats this one.
The Lululemon 22L backpack is sleek, durable, and fits everything. Laptop, charger, drives, planner, snacks, extra cards… and still has room to spare.
It’s basically my Mary Poppins bag for photography.
7. Emergency Editing Fuel
Okay, let’s talk candy.
Busy season calls for sugar. I keep a stash of Nerds Gummy Clusters, Starburst, and Reese’s Fast Breaks within arm’s reach at all times.
Is it healthy? Nope. Is it effective? ABSOLUTELY. (And if you’re judging me, you clearly haven’t edited a gallery of 600+ images in one sitting.)
8. Salad Stop Strategy
Don’t worry, I balance out the candy with some nutrients.
When I’m in a time crunch, I rotate through a few salad spots I love. It’s quick, fresh, and doesn’t leave me in a food coma. The trick? Keep a mental list of go-to spots near your usual routes. That way you’re not stuck googling “salad near me” while hangry in your car.
Spoiler alert: caffeine + candy ≠ a full meal. I’ve tried.
9. Jamie Gillooly Fitness Membership
Here’s the thing: editing marathons require endurance.
And when I’m not moving my body regularly, I feel it. Slower edits. Foggy brain. All of it. That’s why I stay active with Jamie Gillooly’s fitness program.
It’s flexible, empowering, and helps me stay strong. Both physically and mentally. Which, in the middle of busy season, is everything.
10. ImagenAI Editing Software
Let’s talk actual editing for a sec.
This tool? Game-changer. ImagenAI has saved me HOURS every single week. It learns my style (yes, my editing vibe), then handles the heavy lifting so I can spend more time shooting, resting, or spending time with my family.
If you’re drowning in Lightroom, it’s time to let AI step in (just a little).
Curious how I use Imagen AI in real life? I broke it all down in a full blog post. If you’re ready to save time, stay consistent, and make editing way less overwhelming, go check it out here. It might just change the game for you too.
Want even more insight? I also wrote a full ImagenAI review with everything I wish I knew before trying it. What I love, what I’d tweak, and how it actually fits into my workflow.
11. Walking My Dog, Birdie
And finally, my emotional support golden retriever.
Birdie is my daily reminder to slow down, step outside, and breathe. When the inbox is overflowing and my eyeballs hurt from editing, a walk with her brings me back to earth.
No tech. No hustle. Just a leash, a wagging tail, and a little bit of perspective.
So, What’s in Your Photographer’s Survival Kit?
These are my go-tos. My behind-the-scenes must-haves that keep me sane during the busiest months of the year. Whether you’re just starting out or deep in the trenches of a full-blown editing backlog, your own photographer’s survival kit can make or break your workflow.
Need some inspiration to build your own? I’ve linked more of my essentials right here on LTK so you can browse, shop, and customize your kit your way.
Because let’s be honest, this job isn’t just about taking great photos. It’s about managing your time, energy, tech, and yes, even your snacks.
And if you’re ready to go beyond survival mode, don’t forget to check out my resource library for tools and templates built just for photographers. Or explore my 1:1 mentoring sessions for personalized support. I’d love to help you find your rhythm, and maybe even enjoy busy season a little more.
Here’s to surviving (and thriving) through another wild season. You’ve got this!
