Checklist: What you'd hate to forget!

• Are you a photographer?
• Do you often or occasionally go on commissioned photography assignments?
• Heck, do you sometimes go out to take good pictures for short?

If the answer to any or all of the above is yes, we've got a lot in common. The tips and advice in this post are based on personal experience. 


A possible scenario.
If your shoot is in the morning, and you've had a late night or suspect you may be leaving in a rush in the morning, it is natural that you plan to pack your kit before you head for the sack. Of course that sounds like a perfectly reasonable idea BUT, what if you forgot something and in the morning you don't double check because your mind knows you packed everything the night before. Then, you find yourself memorycardless. Bummer!


Remember to charge your camera's battery.


After charging, remember you have to put the battery BACK INTO the camera. Just because you see a camera in your bag, does NOT mean it'll give birth to a battery while you make your way to the shoot. (yes, this too IS from personal experience. Shamefully) Cameras are not quite that advanced yet, so, for now, remember to check the battery is there.


If your flash gun takes AA batteries, always remember them. If they're used, remember to get a new set!


MEMORY-CARD!!! You literally feel your heart sink down into the depths of your intestines when you realise you've got NO memory card. Worst when you realise your back-up memory card is in your laptop's slot...at home.

Assuming there's no way you'll manage to forget your lenses (or at least one lens), other elements you may forget, you can somewhat manage or do without, one way or another. e.g. if you forget your tripod, be still, lower your shutter speed, increase aperture and ISO etc. Forgot your reflector? look for a not-too-shadowy spot, or move around to find the best angles. Or maybe you forgot your business cards. Well, just hope you remember your phone number and web address, otherwise, you're really going to hate having forgotten that small of a thing.
If you're a wedding photographer or wish to be, here's a great guide: The Wedding Photographer's Planner


So, check your kit because you know you've checked it, and not just because you think you haven't checked it yet.