Top Adventure Photography and Videography Gear for Thrill-Seekers

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In the world of adventure, the best moments are often the hardest to capture, and that is why you need the best adventure photography and videography gear!

These once-in-a-lifetime shots demand gear that’s as rugged and versatile as the adventurers behind the lens.

As a full-time adventuring and RVing mermaiding blogger, getting the right shot is nonnegotiable.

I’m always getting questions about my photos and videos, specifically the ones that I do solo in a mermaid tail!

Therefore, this guide rounds up the best adventure photography and videography gear, from lightweight travel cameras to powerful drones, and all the must-have accessories in between.

Get ready to take your adventure shots to a whole new level—because with the right gear, the sky isn’t even close to the limit!

Note that I am going to be very picky with this list. This isn’t going to be a list of a bunch of expensive camera gear – this is the gear that I have tried, dropped, and/or loved. Or, I have confirmed with some professional adventurers that it’s the best of the best.

Action Cameras

Insta360

The Insta360 offers a unique 360° capture mode, making it ideal for adventure enthusiasts who want to film everything around them without missing a moment.

This is one of the coolest pieces of adventure photography and videography gear I own.

What I love is that I can hold out this camera and get multiple angles, videos, and still shots from one video. You can even switch from portrait to landscape in the same shot.

This is also a game changer for solo adventurers who want epic shots without drones.

Again, if you buy with my affiliate link, I can get you some free accessories!

GoPro

GoPro is the gold standard in action cameras, known for its rugged, waterproof build and high-quality 4K footage.

With its HyperSmooth stabilization, GoPro keeps footage steady on even the bumpiest adventures, whether you’re skiing, diving, mountain biking, or more!

It’s compact, durable, and incredibly easy to mount.

I prefer this one for all of my underwater mermaid and scuba shots!

Mirrorless Cameras

Canon EOS M50 Mark II

The Canon EOS M50 Mark II is a compact powerhouse for travel photographers, offering an impressive combination of image quality and portability.

It has fantastic autofocus and smooth video capabilities, ideal for vlogging, taking high-quality photos, and even capturing action scenes on the go.

Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry, a huge plus for adventure lovers who are always on the move.

Plus, it is surprisingly cheap for the kind of photos it shoots and compared to other cameras.

The majority of the photographs on this website are taken with this camera!

Sony a7 III

The Sony a7 III is a favorite among professionals and serious hobbyists for its impressive low-light performance, dynamic range, and high-quality 4K video.

It’s a mirrorless marvel with a robust build and excellent battery life, making it ideal for long days spent shooting in various conditions.

This camera handles everything from wildlife photography to sweeping landscapes with ease, making it a versatile choice for adventurous photographers.

Drones

Hoverair

HoverAir is a lightweight, foldable drone that’s perfect for capturing high-quality aerial shots without the bulk.

Its ease of use and compact design make it an excellent travel companion, allowing adventurers to bring a drone to places where heavier models would be a hassle.

What I love about Hoverair is that you don’t need a remote to control it.

Therefore, it is perfect for beginners who want to get some shots of themselves doing adventurous things (versus just standing there holding a remote).

My only complaint is that it cannot shoot footage in 4k.

DJI Mini 4 Pro Drone

The DJI Mini 4 Pro is a game-changer for adventure videographers, combining high-quality 4K footage with obstacle avoidance features in a super lightweight body.

It’s small enough to travel with you anywhere, but powerful enough to capture stunning shots with cinematic detail.

This drone is perfect for capturing wide, dramatic landscapes or tracking fast-moving subjects in dynamic settings.

Gimbals

DJI Ronin SC

The DJI Ronin SC is a versatile gimbal that gives handheld footage a professional, cinematic quality, perfect for adventure filmmakers looking to level up their videos.

It’s lightweight, compact, and easy to balance with practice, so you can capture buttery-smooth footage while adventuring.

Its intuitive app control adds even more creative options, from timelapse to motion control.

DJI OSMO Mobile Gimbal

For travelers who use their phone as their primary camera, the DJI Osmo Mobile Gimbal provides top-notch stabilization and helps create high-quality, shake-free videos.

It’s compact and easy to use, with intelligent shooting modes that elevate smartphone videography.

Accessories

Camera Tripod

A sturdy camera tripod is essential for shooting long exposures, self-portraits, and time-lapses in the wild.

It provides a stable base for your camera, allowing you to capture sharp, crystal-clear images no matter the lighting or landscape.

I like the Amazon Basics one because it is lightweight and is compactable, but I also own a heavy duty one as well.

Portable Tripod

For adventurers on the go, a portable tripod is a must-have.

It’s compact and lightweight, easy to strap onto a backpack or stash in a pocket.

Perfect for vlogging, selfies, or quick setups on uneven terrain, a portable tripod makes it easier than ever to capture stable shots without weighing you down.

This tripod is my go-to for strenuous hiking and I love that I can use it with both my phone and my camera.

Camera Bag

A well-designed camera bag keeps all your gear safe, organized, and easily accessible.

Look for a bag that’s waterproof, padded, and has compartments for lenses, batteries, and accessories.

A good camera bag will make a big difference in keeping your gear protected while allowing you to explore comfortably.

Peak Design Clip

The Peak Design Clip is a compact, convenient accessory that lets you securely mount your camera to any backpack strap or belt, keeping it within reach at all times.

This clip is a lifesaver for hikers and climbers, allowing them to capture spontaneous shots without digging through their bags.

Personally, hiking with a camera strap is very uncomfortable for my neck, and this clip allows me to strap it on my backpack so that I don’t even know it’s there.

Quick Release Camera Anchor Link

A quick-release camera strap is ideal for adventurers who need flexibility.

It lets you quickly detach and reattach your camera, providing hands-free ease when you’re navigating rough terrain.

This strap ensures your camera is both secure and accessible, ready for action whenever you are.

I started using these quick-release camera straps when using gimbals and haven’t looked back since.

Final Word on This Adventure Photography and Videography Gear Guide

When it comes to capturing the wild and the wonderful, having the right photography and videography gear can make all the difference.

Each item on this list is designed to help adventurers like you capture moments that are as thrilling on screen as they are in real life.

These tools let you document your journey with high-quality, immersive footage and photos that bring the spirit of adventure to life, even when the journey’s over.

So whether you’re a budding photographer, a seasoned videographer, or shopping for the adventure lover in your life, the gear here has you covered.

With the right equipment in your pack, you’re not just telling stories—you’re preserving memories of the road less traveled, the mountain peaks conquered, and every incredible experience in between.

Here’s to capturing every adventure, one epic shot at a time!

XOXO,

The Bucket List Mermaid