Cameras: Sony a7 IV & Sony a7 III
For my videos in the studio, I use Sony a7 IV
Sony a7 IV, a versatile hybrid camera, has significantly enhanced my ability to produce striking photos and videos. Its autofocus is top-notch, and the quality of the RAW image files is superb. Sony has really stepped up their game with the color science in this camera model, marking a significant improvement.
Lenses for video: SIGMA 16-28mm & 28-70mm DG DN
When filming in the studio, I opt for two SIGMA lenses from their Contemporary line: the SIGMA 28-70mm F2.8 DG DN and the SIGMA 16-28mm F2.8 DG DN. My choice is largely influenced by their compact size and lightweight design, which make them ideal for studio work and and usage on gimbals.
Lighting: Amaran P60x
For my studio lighting or on location lighting I have chosen one of the best brands out there, Aputure, and picked a kit with Amaran P60x. These are LED lights that produce excellent lighting that cover every production of video I make, either for YouTube all other projects. Bonus the effects I can chose and super app to control them through bluetooth.
I highly recommend anyone in need of quality lighting to consider this option.
Huge appreciation to Manios Cine Tools, experts in cinematography lighting and video-photo equipment, for their recommendation of these Lights!
The amaran P60x is an bi-color Lensed LED Panel with 60W of intense output and is part of the newest generation of amaran LED panels. The P60x builds upon many of the existing features of previous amaran panels, including battery power & charging and compact form factor, then upgrades them with an expanded bi-color CCT range, increased durability, and Sidus Link App control. The P60x and P60c usher in a new generation of lighting for creators of all types by combining features to make them the best LED panels in their class.
from Aputure.com
Microphone: Rode NT1 & AI-1 Complete Studio Kit
For my podcasts, webinars, live sessions, and certain YouTube videos, I’ve opted for the NT1 & AI-1 Complete Studio Kit. It offers superb control and sound input, enhancing the quality of my projects. The latest version is the NT1 5th Generation, released in February 2023, which is a great choice.
The RØDE Complete Studio Kit contains everything you need to make professional, studio-quality recordings at home. Featuring our AI-1 audio interface, peerless NT1 large-diaphragm condenser microphone, plus an SM6 shock mount and XLR cable, it’s the perfect first step into recording.
from Rode.com
Monitors: Viewsonic VP2768 2K, VP2768 4K, Nec PA272W
I currently use a trio of 27″ monitors. My older model is the Nec MultiSync PA272W, a professional-grade monitor that was among the best in its class when released. Recently, I replaced my two Dell monitors with models from Viewsonic – the Viewsonic ColorPro VP2768 2K and the Viewsonic ColorPro VP2768 4K., both of which have served my needs excellently.
I’m quite pleased with my current setup; it provides ample space, making the use of editing software both comfortable and convenient.
Video Editing Software: BlackMagic Davinci Resolve Studio
For editing my videos, I use DaVinci Resolve 18 – Studio | Blackmagic Design (there is also a free version for everybody).
I’m really fond of this software. It’s equipped with all the tools necessary for editing my videos and projects, and I wouldn’t trade it for anything, including Adobe Premiere Pro or Final Cut.
DaVinci Resolve Studio supports up to 120 fps at a massive 32K resolution, as well as support for multiple GPUs for real time playback of professional 10‑bit formats, and accelerated H.264 and H.265 hardware decoding and encoding. There’s a full suite of immersive audio tools including Dolby Vision and HDR10+ grading and rendering, the DaVinci Neural Engine and 30 extra Resolve FX. You get temporal and spatial noise reduction, motion effects, lens distortion correction, de-interlacing, workflow and media asset management integration, remote scripting API, remote and networked color grading, plus rendering and encoder plug‑in support. Plus there’s full screen playback on a second monitor!
from Blackmagic Design
Photo Editing Software: FastStone Image Viewer, Adobe Photoshop CC, Adobe Lightroom Classic, Luminar Neo, Topaz Denoise AI, Topaz Sharpen AI, Topaz GigaPixel AI
Throughout my career as a professional photographer, I have consistently chosen image editing software that seamlessly integrates with and enhances my workflow.
FastStone Image Viewer has emerged as a swift and free alternative to Adobe Bridge for image browsing in recent years. Its speed in viewing images efficiently has made my workflow much faster, and I highly recommend giving it a try.
Adobe Photoshop CC and Lightroom Classic are widely recognized as the top choices for image editing in photography. I primarily use Lightroom for cataloging, keywording, editing, and synchronizing my images. However, for tasks such as preparing images for printing, client presentations, or photo competitions, I turn to Photoshop. The integration of the latest AI technologies, particularly the Denoise AI function, into both applications has significantly expanded my editing capabilities while also reducing the time I spend on various tasks. I subscribe to Adobe’s Photography Plan, which is an excellent deal at just 10 euros per month.
Since August 2023, I’ve been incorporating Luminar Neo into my workflow, utilizing its AI-driven technologies to enhance my photos. As a member of the Luminar Affiliate Community, I’m here to answer any questions you might have about the software. Luminar Neo is an excellent choice for amateur photographers or those who prefer not to spend extensive time on photo editing. If you’re interested in purchasing it, you can support me by using my affiliate link here.
In 2022, I upgraded to the latest AI-powered software from Topaz Labs. Having previously used Topaz’s non-AI software to great satisfaction, the new AI enhancements truly astounded me. Denoise AI has been a lifesaver for images shot at high ISO, effectively reducing noise without compromising detail. Sharpen AI has rescued numerous slightly out-of-focus images that would otherwise have been discarded. Additionally, Gigapixel AI‘s ability to enlarge images while maintaining quality is impressive. Check them out here.