The Best Two-Way Radios for Photography
If you go out and buy the first radio that you see for your team, you might be in for a rude awakening. Static, poor battery life, messages that sound like a drive-through speaker...
That’s why you need a quality radio tailored to your photography team, and we’ve got you covered!
We don't want you to buy any radio just because you like the name or the price. We want you to make an educated decision and purchase the perfect radio within the scope of your needs, staff, and location.
We’ve sold thousands of radios and have compiled all that knowledge right here in this brief guide.
What do you need in a walkie talkie for photography?
The model’s outfit change is delayed, and the makeup artist is asking when they’ll be needed next...
The creative director is trying to get a lighting adjustment but the gaffer is out of earshot. The photographer is ready to shoot but the stylist is still hunting for a missing accessory…
Everyone’s working—but no one’s synced. The schedule’s tight, the client’s watching, and the shots aren’t getting done.
These are all common issues in a photography role - and they can easily be solved with clear, quality two-way radios.
Let's walk through some important components when comparing radios.
Coverage Considerations
When choosing two-way radios for your team, it is important to match radio power and coverage of your building size and layout.
Selecting a radio that is too powerful for your needs can lead to overpaying, while choosing one with insufficient coverage may result in poor quality and dead zones.
For small teams, 1 to 2 watts of power will do the trick - you can get from 100k - 200k sqft of coverage.
Larger teams (or working within multiple buildings), covering up to 350,000 square feet, require more powerful radios in the 3-4 watt range on analog (or 1 watt on digital) that can transmit clearly through walls and across larger distances.
You also need to take obstructions and building materials into account. If you have thick concrete walls, it may be necessary to go 1-watt stronger.
For unlimited coverage, across multiple locations, consider radios that use LTE and Wi-Fi, like the Motorola WAVE PTX series.
Number of Channels Needed
Channels help segment team conversations, to simplify radio chatter.
Recommended groups for Photo:
From our experience, photography teams work best when teams are grouped into one channel.
Easy breezy. That’s concise and direct communication.
Channels can also be used to set up private conversations: “Sarah, call Tom on channel two.”
Sarah and Tom can then have an in-depth conversation over the radio without bothering the rest of the staff.
Quality Brands Make a Difference
You need a radio that is not going to fall apart within a year. You need one that will last so you’re not throwing away money.
Motorola and Kenwood two-way Radios are the most quality brands on the market because they are purpose-built for reliable communication with a durable build.
Designed to be easy to use and intuitive their radio series are affordable, cost-effective and eliminate monthly cell phone plans.
Tested for 5 years of field use, Motorola and Kenwood make sure you see a return on your investment.
Not to mention the included manufacturer warranty (1-3 years depending on model).
What features make a great photography radio?
Hands-Free Options (VOX or Headset Support) Photographers need their hands on their gear, not on a radio. Look for models with voice-activated transmission (VOX) or compatibility with discreet earpieces and push-to-talk headsets.
Clear Audio Quality In loud or chaotic environments—like live events, outdoor shoots, or fashion shows—clear sound is critical. Noise-cancellation or enhanced audio clarity helps avoid miscommunication.
Long Battery Life Photoshoots often run for hours, sometimes all day. A radio that dies halfway through isn’t just inconvenient—it can derail coordination. Look for models with all-day battery life or swappable battery packs.
Durable and Weather-Resistant From sandy beaches to sudden rain, gear takes a beating. Look for radios that are rugged and have at least basic water/dust resistance (IP ratings help here).
Lightweight and Compact Design Heavy, bulky radios get in the way. Something small, clip-on, and easy to carry is ideal when you’re moving fast and juggling gear.
Easy to Use No one wants to fumble with buttons or menus during a high-stress shoot. Look for intuitive controls, especially if your team isn’t tech-savvy.
Our Top Two-Way Radio Picks for Photographers
To help you with your selection, we've highlighted several different models below that are perfect for teams of every size.
These recommendations come from our own experience working with thousands of these radios. Each one has a rock-solid history and great reputation.
You’ll want a compact and lightweight radio that is discreet and easy to carry. Offering modest power and 1 to a handful of channels, you will have enough groups to keep operations running smoothly.
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Lightweight, discreet, and hands-free with excellent audio clarity.
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The Motorola CLP1010e is a UHF radio that has one channel. Consider it a simplified version of the CLP1080e.
It has the same antimicrobial casing to prevent an outbreak and create a healthier workplace.
You’ll also get the same 10 floor range indoors with one mile of outside communication.
This two way radio also has a 12-hour life thanks to the included rechargeable lithium-ion battery.
It’s extremely light at just over two ounces and features 219 elimination codes to protect your sensitive conversations.
The CLP1010e also comes with an earpiece for hands free use and a belt clip to help your average _ worker carry it around.
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User-friendly with reliable coverage and extended battery life.
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Request a Quote for Bulk Purchases
Need to equip your team? We want to help!
Make sure to request a quote for our best possible pricing.
We are here for you!
If you have any questions on which radio is right for your team – do not hesitate to reach out to our support team.
We have a very knowledgeable staff with over 25 years of experience in the two-way radio industry that can answer all your questions.
You can’t get rid of us that easily after purchase - we include lifetime tech support to be there for you every step of the way!