In 2017, I had some seriously breakthroughs that made my job and life a lot easier! I love finding out life hacks and making people’s lives better. I wish someone had told me about these things earlier and I could have added them to my photographer’s tool belt!! That is why I am telling you!

My couch

This fall I moved into a new apartment and there was a considerable amount of extra space in my new room. Kylee has a chaise lounge as part of her couch and it’s always the seat of choice for Bachelor nights or to curl up in to get some computer work done. I started researching and after about 2 months I found a chaise lounge chair that would fit in my room. It also can double as a small bed for guests. Its such a treat to be able to snuggle there to work on my laptop rather than working at my desk or my bed! I found it at Ashley Furniture in Logan and it’s been an excellent investment in my self care. My couch.

*Furniture buying tip: Wait for sales like Memorial Day or Labor Day before buying!

My packing cubes

This year I traveled to 7 states for weddings. If you know me, you know I am a natural over packer. Adding packing cubes into my packing routine was so helpful because it helped me be more organized and pack what I needed. You can find packing cubes at any price range on Amazon. I know I got good ones cause traveling expert, Hiliary has the same ones as me. Packing cubes. Some colors are less expensive.

Spider Holster Memory Card Holder

Last January at the Kylee Ann Sleep over, one of the attendees had a Spider Holster just like me, but also had a small memory card holder to go with it. I immediately got my own and used it for the entire year. Everything I need on my belt at all times. I keep extra memory cards, business cards and batteries on me, as well as keys and a phone on shoots so that I don’t have to carry a bag if I don’t want to. I get asked all the time if I’ve ever dropped my camera using the Spider Holster for the last 2 years and the answer is no! My back and neck have also been spared by using it! Memory Card Holder.

Jo Totes Backpack

Kylee got this backpack first, and I soon found it for sale used and snagged it. I love that you can carry everything for a wedding in it on an airplane. The laptop sleeve was the main seller to me. I had to get used to using it instead of a satchel, but now I can easily swing it around and get out what I need in just a few seconds. There is also a space for my bride essentials kit and an extra lens and other accessories. Jo Totes Backpack.

Unlimited Data from Verizon

This one is going to seem so silly, but it has been a game changer. Back in June, I was approaching 3 weeks straight of travel in other states. I knew that getting images uploaded and delivered online would be a struggle without having solid wifi to count on. Upgrading our family phone plan was only a small amount more per month. I am now able to set up hot spots when I need to. Unlimited data also allows me to be able to FaceTime my family, even while traveling which was an added bonus. I no longer have to sit in McDonald’s parking lots while traveling trying to use the free wifi, or ask the people I stay with for their wifi password. Verizon.

If you enjoyed this post, see more about Rachel here.