Video: All the gear a war photographer takes into combat

Photojournalist Jonathan Alpeyrie has spent more than 20 years covering conflicts in Ukraine, Iraq, Syria, Gaza and the international drug trade.

In a recent video for the UK's Daily Mail, he walks through the gear he relies on while also sharing insights from his career.

The practical, no-nonsense video is an interesting watch for anyone interested in war photography, and more so because Alpeyrie's kit is the epitome of simplicity. In face, he even says he has packed the same way for two decades.

His kit is simple: a camera, flak jacket, phone, bag and computer. He currently uses the Canon EOS R, which he prefers because it is discreet and helps him blend in, and his lens of choice is a Canon RF 50mm F1.2L USM, the only lens he currently uses.

“The lens is where you want to spend your money. The body you can pick and choose,” he says.

The benefits of the fast prime are its wide aperture (useful in low light) and its relatively small size when compared to large zoom lenses, making it practical when taking cover, unlike larger lenses he has had damaged under fire.

The video also covers how he protects his gear and memory cards, why it is essential to know your camera and work in manual mode, and offers practical advice on framing and composition. Alpeyrie also shares info about the 70-year-old film camera he uses to photograph WWII veterans around the world.

This great video is well worth a watch for anyone interested in what is perhaps the most challenging genres of photography.