What's In My Bag: Two Camera & Lens Setups For Macro, Close-ups & More

Reading Time 2 min.

Author Kyle van Bavel

Date 2024.01.25

Photographer Kyle van Bavel (@kylevanbavel) loves macro photography and capturing beautiful landscapes with his camera. "My adventure started a couple of years ago when I made the decision to buy a camera. I was looking for something to relax my mind after work and thought photographing would be a nice, active thing to do. I really love nature so this is a great combination for me to be able to show people my view of nature. I love showing the littlest details of the big world we are living in, because most of the time we overlook them. I love spending my spring and summer days in between the flowers and insects.” We caught up with van Bavel to learn more about the gear he uses for macro, close-ups and more. Keep reading as he shares what you’ll find in his kit.

Product Preview – In This Article You'll Find:
–Sony Alpha 7R V
–Sony Alpha 7 IV
–Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G
–Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II

Kyle van Bavel's photography kit for macro and more

Photographer Kyle van Bavel packs two Sony Alpha cameras and two Sony lenses in his kit to capture the littlest details in our big world.

Cameras

Sony Alpha 7R V: The Sony Alpha 7R V is my main camera. This strong, compact camera is coming with me on every walk. I’m in love with the 61mp, as this allows me to get the best and sharpest macro shots. It also allows me to come even closer to my subject if I want without losing quality. The flip screen is helping me to get really low on the ground and gives me a clear view on how the picture would turn out.

Photo by Kyle van Bavel. Sony Alpha 7R V. Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G. 1/400-sec., f/3, ISO 100

Sony Alpha 7 IV: The Sony Alpha 7 IV paired with the stunning Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II lens is my dynamic backup setup. If I see something not related to macro photography then I use this lens for shooting my subjects like a bird or landscape. Also I use it for when a flower is not easy reachable because it is a great option to still get a sharp close-up shot.

Photo by Kyle van Bavel. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/320-sec., f/2.8, ISO 100

Lenses

Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G: Capturing the intricate details of nature with the Sony 90mm Macro lens is an absolute pleasure. Its unparalleled sharpness, impressive bokeh and precise autofocus make every shot a masterpiece. With a perfect blend of exceptional build quality and outstanding performance, the Sony 90mm macro lens is a must-have for any enthusiast who appreciates the beauty in the smallest of subjects!

Photo by Kyle van Bavel. Sony Alpha 7R V. Sony 90mm f/2.8 Macro G. 1/320-sec., f/4, ISO 400

Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II: Diving into the realm of creativity is effortless with the Sony 70–200mm f/2.8 G Master II lens. This versatile powerhouse combines exceptional telephoto reach with a wide aperture, delivering stunning images with breathtaking clarity and creamy bokeh. Whether capturing distant landscapes or framing compelling portraits, the lens' remarkable optical performance and swift autofocus make every shot a masterpiece.

Photo by Kyle van Bavel. Sony Alpha 7 IV. Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/250-sec., f/2.8, ISO 250

Accessories

Bean Bag: For putting my camera down if there is a lot of dirt or if I need a little more sturdy hand for capturing am insect. Because in general I have no tripod with me.

Small Cleaning Set: I always bring my little electric blower for cleaning my gear. Because sometimes I put my camera down on the ground the get the best shot of a tiny flower or insect.

In general I love to use an easy setup for my macro photography. I love to use natural light, which can be a challenge but I love it. I also love to have freedom with choosing my angle and spot, so that is why I don’t use a tripod. Sometimes I have one...but 95% of the time I don’t have it with me.

See more of Kyle van Bavel’s work on Instagram @kylevanbavel.

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