The Gear Behind the Lens: My Trusted Photography Companions
Photography has always been more than just a job for me—it's a lifelong passion, an art form I’ve been refining since I first held a camera. My love for photography grew from countless hours spent shooting film as a kid, where I learned to master the essentials of manual settings. Today, my gear reflects that foundation, blending the nostalgic roots of film photography with the cutting-edge tools of the digital age.
Let me introduce you to the camera body and lenses that make up my main rotation. These are more than tools—they’re companions on every shoot, each with a role in helping me capture the world’s beauty.
Canon R6: My Workhorse
At the heart of my photography is the Canon R6, a mirrorless marvel that feels like an extension of my hand. Shooting fully manual on this body gives me complete control over every shot, a habit I’ve carried over from my film days. Canon has been my go-to brand for years, and the R6 keeps that trust alive with its incredible low-light capabilities, fast autofocus, and robust build.
Whether I’m shooting a corporate event under dim lighting or capturing a stunning sunset, the R6 performs flawlessly. It’s not just a camera—it’s a partner I rely on to deliver consistent results, even in challenging conditions.
The Lenses: My Creative Toolbox
Each lens in my bag has a specific purpose, and together they form a versatile lineup that allows me to handle any scenario. Here’s a closer look:
Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 Art
This is my go-to lens for versatility. Whether I’m covering a bustling festival or shooting portraits at a charity gala, the 24-70mm range delivers sharp, stunning images every time. The f/2.8 aperture ensures gorgeous depth of field and performs beautifully in low light.
Sigma 70-200mm f/2.8 Sport
For events, outdoor sports, or any situation where I need to keep my distance, this lens is a powerhouse. It’s razor-sharp, fast, and built like a tank—perfect for those long, action-packed shoots.
Sigma 35mm f/1.8 Art
The 35mm is my storytelling lens. It’s the perfect focal length for capturing authentic, photojournalistic moments. Its wide aperture allows me to create dreamy bokeh and excel in low-light environments.
Canon RF 50mm
There’s a reason photographers love the nifty fifty. This lens is my secret weapon for portraits and detail shots, offering unparalleled sharpness and a natural perspective. It’s lightweight, reliable, and always in my bag.
Canon RF 16mm
When I need to capture the big picture—literally—I reach for this ultra-wide-angle lens. From sweeping architectural shots to dramatic event backdrops, the 16mm lets me fit it all into the frame.
Lighting the Way: Godox V1 Flash
I’ll admit, I don’t always love using flash. But when I do, the Godox V1 is my trusted companion. Its round head mimics natural light beautifully, and its versatility allows me to create stunning lighting effects. Whether I’m softening shadows during a wedding or adding a pop of light at a nighttime event, the V1 never lets me down.
Film Photography: A Nostalgic Escape
When I’m not working, you’ll often find me experimenting with film. My trusty Minolta Maxxum 70 and its arsenal of lenses bring me back to my roots. I especially enjoy shooting with films like Cinestill, Japanese Street Pan, and Mirage, which each add their own unique character to my images.
Film forces me to slow down, think critically, and embrace imperfections. It’s a humbling reminder of where my love for photography began.
Filters: The Unsung Heroes
I’m a firm believer in the power of filters to elevate a shot. My favorites are K&F Concept black diffusion filters in 1/8 and 1/4 strengths, which create a dreamy, cinematic effect. The 1/8 rarely leaves my lenses.
For more control, I also carry variable ND filters, CPL filters, and a night filter from Urth that reduces glare and tames artificial lights. Every lens in my kit has its own dedicated filter—it’s not the most economical system, but it’s worth it to avoid constant swapping.
For Fun: Leica D-Lux 7
The Leica D-Lux 7 is my little indulgence. Compact, stylish, and a joy to shoot with, it’s my go-to for personal projects and everyday moments. Occasionally, I bring it to work, but mostly, it’s my reminder that photography should always be fun.
My gear isn’t the flashiest or the most expensive, but it’s carefully chosen to suit my style and needs. Every piece plays a role in helping me tell stories, capture emotions, and preserve memories.
Photography is about so much more than the tools—it’s about the eye behind the lens and the heart that sees the moment. But having the right companions in your bag? That’s what makes the magic happen.
If you’d like to see what this humble setup can create, check out my portfolio at Biography Photography. Let’s make something amazing together.
