It’s 2023 and a lot has changed, so I have created this new up-to-date kit blog. Below is almost everything I use and I will try my best to keep on top of it.
I have included links to all of my kit, some of the links are affiliate links which means if you choose to purchase an item, I may get a small commission.
Primary photography camera
I shoot with the full-frame Sony A7II. I had become familiar with old Sony point-and-shoot digital cameras in the early 2000s, then moved to a full-frame Sony A3 camera in 2009. In 2014 I switched to mirrorless cameras. The Sony α7 formula is simple: use a high-quality sensor with extremely high dynamic range and built-in sensor stabilization then pack it with features rivaling or besting larger DSLRs. It's a fantastic travel camera system. I love the size, build quality, image quality, high resolution (24MP) as well as Wi-Fi connectivity to Sony mobile apps for sharing photo previews on the go.
When it comes to looking for lenses I don't obsess over every professional review. My photos end up on this website downsized and compressed so I don't exactly care about a bit of lens distortion, chromatic aberration, edge sharpness, or any of the other things professionals fret over. I want something I will be able to trust to get the job done while traveling.
Sony a7ii 24mp
Samyang 35mm F1.8
Tamron 28-200 F2.8
Powerextra VG-C2EM Battery Grip
Samyang 24mm F2.8
Viltrox 85mm F1.8
Extra batteries
Primary video camera
While my Sony A7II is a phenomenal powerhouse that can take on just about any challenge, it does fall short in one category: video. As someone who shoots professional corporate videos I needed something that could shoot 4k and a mic jack. The Sony A6100 fills those needs and so much more. Being an APSC sensor the body is much smaller than the A7ii. The A6100 image quality, using a good lens, delivers the best IQ that is found within the APSC family. Autofocus is the best I’ve ever used on any camera and with face detect I’m pretty confident using autofocus tracking in my videos.
Sony A6100 24mp
The autofocus on this camera is the best I’ve ever used. I recommend this camera to anyone looking for their first camera. Watch my review here.
Sony 18-105 F4
Sigma 16mm F1.4
Sony 70-350 F4.5-6.3
Action Camera
The DJI Osmo Action is a great little action camera for the times I really want to travel light (no pun intended). Or for times when taking my camera or phone is too risky. It shoots an impressive 4k video that I downsample to 1080p. I really love that I don’t have to use a case for dust and water resistance.
DJI Osmo Action
This is the best action camera for the price. The video quality is amazing and the image stabilization is second to none.
PGYTECH Case
ND Filter Set
Osmo Action Dual 3.5mm Mic Adapter
Battery Charger Pack
SD Card
-Mics-
TAKSTAR SGC-598
Camera Video Microphone
Mobile Setup
You don’t need an A7ii to take great pictures. The best camera is the one that’s with you. Sometime my phone (iPhone 7 plus) is the best camera I have with me. Smartphones have gotten really good in the last few year. Even budget phones focus on having a good camera.
Sirui 18mm wide angle
Sirui
10X macro
Adonit Photogrip with Bluetooth Shutter
Using this is the best way to make your phone feel like a point and shoot camera
SIRUI 60mm portrait
Sirui 1.33
Anamorphic
Cinema Lens
Octo Mounts | F-Mount
This makes a great hand grip. The wrist strap is a nice touch.
Peak Design Leash
Peak Design Capture Camera Clip
This clip I use ALL the time. Being able keep my hands free is really nice. I keep
Camera Strap
Once I like a brand I like to stick with them. Peak Design is my favorite camera accessory company. They have not sponsored my or this website, I just like the gear they may.
Peak Design SLL-BK-3 Slide Lite
This is the camera strap i sue the most.
Peak Design Cuff Camera Wrist Strap
I don’t use this one much but I really like when I do.