I went there just 2 weeks ago
Hotel i reccomend - Hotel Amari Beach Resort ( First Class hotel )
Don't miss a walk on the Walking Streer lol lots of Thai hookers will be after you ;)
while you are there take a peak at the European Stripclub on walking streer haaa haaa some stunning blondes and brunettes ;)
You can just walk to the beach and you can do anything you want....from massages to jet ski's....and scuba diving for really cheap
I am not sure about the photography equipment
you can rent any superbik you can think for like 20$ a day ;) good fun