As a reviews writer at Tom's Guide, I get to test some of the coolest tech gear on the planet—especially cameras and drones. It’s a dream gig. But there’s a catch: most of the gear I review eventually gets packed up and sent back. And honestly, some of those return days hit harder than others.
So I recently asked myself a fun question: If I had to rebuild my entire camera and drone setup from scratch—with no budget limits—what five pieces of gear would make the cut? The answer came surprisingly fast. These five stood out, not just because they were impressive on paper, but because I genuinely missed them when they were gone.
I actually ended up buying the Fujifilm X-T50 for myself—and I haven’t looked back. It's one of those rare cameras that combines style, speed, and substance in a compact body. The autofocus is snappy, the in-body stabilization is rock-solid, and that 40.2MP sensor delivers beautifully crisp photos.
What really sets it apart, though, is the film simulation dial. It gives you easy access to Fujifilm’s signature color profiles, which means you can quickly set the tone and mood of your photos without diving into menus. Whether I’m shooting portraits, street scenes, or quiet landscapes, this camera just gets it.
It’s compact, well-designed, and delivers pro-level results. If I were starting from zero, the X-T50 would be one of the first things back in my kit.
The DJI Neo holds a special place in my heart. It was the first drone I ever reviewed for Tom’s Guide, and it's still one of my favorites. It’s not the most advanced, but it nails the “grab-and-go” vibe perfectly.
What makes it so fun is that you don’t even need a separate controller to fly it. With just a few taps or presses, you can launch it, engage a QuickShot mode, and get a cool aerial video without fuss. It’s light, fits in any backpack, and makes capturing spontaneous moments so easy—perfect for quick outings with friends or family.
If I’m packing for a casual trip or just heading to the park, the Neo is the drone I’d bring along.
When it's time to get serious, the Mavic 4 Pro comes out. This drone blew me away from the moment I tested it. It’s a true workhorse—equipped to capture jaw-dropping aerial shots that look like they belong in a feature film.
From crystal-clear high-res stills to cinematic video footage, it handles everything with confidence. It’s also packed with smart features that make flying feel smooth and intuitive, even in complex shooting environments.
Yes, it's a bit heavier and more substantial than the Neo, but that’s the trade-off for all the pro features. If I were shooting anything remotely serious—documentary work, client projects, or creative short films—this would be my go-to flying camera.
When it comes to photographing animals or fast-moving subjects, few cameras come close to the Sony A1 II. I’m a big fan of wildlife photography, and this camera makes the experience smoother, smarter, and faster.
Its autofocus system is ridiculously advanced. It recognizes and tracks subjects with real-time precision—whether it’s a soaring bird, a sprinting dog, or a cyclist racing past. It also delivers massive image files, which gives you the freedom to crop tight without losing detail.
For me, the A1 II is more than just a camera—it’s a creative companion that keeps up with the action. It’s responsive, intelligent, and built to perform in high-stakes moments.
And finally, let’s not forget about fun. The Fujifilm Instax Mini 12 may not be the most high-tech device in this lineup, but it adds heart to any collection.
There’s something magical about instant photography. You click the shutter, and a real photo prints out in your hand within moments. Whether you're at a party, on vacation, or just documenting your day, this camera lets you share memories in a tangible way.
It’s user-friendly, has a cute design, and even includes a selfie mirror and a close-up mode. I love how it gets people talking and smiling—something no digital-only camera can quite replicate.
So, if I had to build my dream setup from the ground up, these would be the five pieces of gear in my bag: versatile, powerful, fun, and capable of capturing just about anything life throws at me.
Every one of these cameras and drones has left a lasting impression—and I wouldn’t hesitate to bring them back into my creative toolkit. What about you? If you could start fresh, which camera or drone would make your list?