Camera
This is where the magic happens and my most asked question. The camera(s) that I use are also the main reason for my distinctively colorful and high-quality content. While I’ve shot with a variety of Canon products for 15+ years, these are my current go-to cameras for capturing captivating content.
- Canon 80D with EF-S 18-55 mm f/3.5-5.6 Lens – 24.2 Megapixel, 1080p Video
- Canon 5D Mark IV – 30.4 Megapixel, 4k Video
- Canon G7x Mark ii – 20.1 Megapixel, 1080p. The Vloggers go-to camera
Lens
Guess what?! The lens is more important than the camera itself. Why? Because it is the key to magical content. Lenses allow you to control the closeness of your subject, how blurry the background is and the amount of light that enters your camera. They are the main tool used in leveling up ones content and in most cases, have a longer shelf life than the camera body.
- Sigma 18-35 mm F1.8 – The digital creator’s “it” lens. It’s wide/fast aperture and incredibly fast and silent autofocus make it my go to lens for filming Youtube content.
- Canon EF 50mm F1.8 – The “nifty fifty” is the most versatile and affordable lens one can own
- Canon EF 85mm F1.2 (F1.4 , F1.8) – The “portrait” lens that is perfect for focusing on the essence and beauty of the subject
- Canon EF 35mm F1.4 – Go-to lens for capturing candid shots of everyday life. Ideal for street photography
- Canon EF 70-200mm F2.8 – From portrait, sports, events and wildlife photography, this zoom lens is a must-have for any kit
Lighting
Lighting is the most import element in creating captivating content because it allows for a compelling story to be told. It doesn’t matter what camera or lens you’ve invested in if the subject can’t be seen. That is why I prioritize lighting when creating content and shoot during golden hour (an hour after sunrise and an hour before sunset) for optimal lighting. The best part about shooting in natural light? It’s FREE! When I’m unable to access natural light, I utilize continuous lighting wand the three-point lighting technique to ensure the best lighting in my content.
- Ring Light Kit – I use this as my key light when filming content
- Softbox Lighting kit – I use these as my fill light to provide additional lighting when needed
- 2 Piece LED Light Kit – I use these as additional lighting and as back light when I’m the subject
Tripod
The tripod is the second most important tool that I use when creating content because it is the perfect assistant. It holds your shots in place and its reliability is truly unmatched. The tripod is also my secret for seamless transitions and consistent content when shooting self portraits and filming tutorials
- 360 Tripod – All-in-one tripod/monopod that is perfect for panoramic and top down/overhead shoots
- Aluminum Tripod – This is my go-to tripod because of its durability and affordability.
- Portable tripod stand with Bluetooth Remote – This goes everywhere with me because of its portability and discreetness. Perfect for content days and shooting on the go.
- Overhead Tripod Mount – Perfect portable mount for capturing overhead content
- Phone Tripod Mount – My secret tool for capturing multi-angle and behind-the-scenes shots