Storing and Organising Photography Gear

Whether you're a professional photographer or a passionate hobbyist, photography gear has a habit of multiplying and fast. Cameras, lenses, memory cards, batteries, tripods, cables and lighting equipment can quickly turn any space into a jumble of expensive, fragile chaos.

Good storage isn’t just about tidiness it’s about protecting your gear and making it easy to grab what you need when inspiration strikes.

Categorise Before You Store

Start by grouping your equipment: camera bodies, lenses, lighting, accessories, and so on. Then check for any items you no longer use or that no longer work. Donate or responsibly recycle what you no longer need to reduce clutter and free up space for what matters most.

Invest in Padded Storage

Photography gear is delicate. Proper cases with padding whether it’s a hard-shell case for travel or soft inserts for at-home use help protect your investment. Keep everyday items in a grab-and-go bag, and store less-used kit in a clearly labelled container or drawer.

Use Drawers, Not Piles

Avoid the temptation to stack equipment or boxes. Instead, use drawers or modular shelving units with dividers. Store cables, chargers and filters in small pouches or compartment boxes. This prevents tangling and keeps small parts from getting lost or damaged.

Label Everything

When you’re in a rush, the last thing you want to do is search through unlabelled containers. Use clear boxes or add labels to opaque ones to instantly identify contents. You’ll save time and reduce stress before shoots.

Think Vertical for Light Stands and Tripods

Tall items like tripods, monopods and light stands can be awkward to store. Use wall-mounted hooks, corner bins, or a tall basket to keep them upright and out of the way. If you're short on space, hang them behind a door or in a wardrobe.

Schedule Regular Gear Checks

Make it a habit to inspect and tidy your gear every month or so. Clean lenses, check battery charge levels, and ensure everything is stored correctly. This keeps your equipment in working order and ready to use at a moment’s notice.

An organised photography setup helps you stay focused on capturing the moment, not finding your memory card.