The Tools I Use -- and Why

I don’t believe great photographs come from great gear. They come from judgment, experience, and an understanding of light. The tools below are simply what I’ve chosen because they let me work quickly, reliably, and intentionally in real-world conditions.

This list changes over time. The principles behind it do not.

Photographer using a Nikon Z9 and 180–600mm lens on a tripod with gimbal head to photograph bald eagles in Prairie du Sac, Wisconsin, in winter

Camera Bodies

I use camera bodies that prioritize reliability, speed, and flexibility under pressure. These are tools I trust in fast-moving environments where there are no second chances.

Nikon Z9
Nikon D4 (legacy body and backup)

Lenses

My lens choices emphasize clarity, consistency, and practical focal lengths. I favor lenses that let me work decisively rather than chase coverage.

Nikkor F 70–200mm f/2.8G VR II
Nikkor Z 24-70 f/2.8 S
Nikkor F 20mm f/1.8G
Nikkor F 85mm f/1.8G
Nikkor F 105mm f/2.8 VR Macro
Nikkor Z 180–600mm
Nikkor F 50mm f/1.8G

Lighting

Lighting — Flash

Flash is a precision tool. I use it to shape light, control contrast, and maintain consistency when available light isn’t cooperative.

Nikon SB-800 (×3) speedlights
Alien Bee R200
Einstein 640ws
Godox wireless triggers
Vagabond Mini battery

Lighting — Continuous

Continuous light helps me see and refine light in real time, especially for portraits and detail work.

ICE Light LED
Torchlight LED

Modifiers & Light Control

Modifiers allow me to sculpt light intentionally.

28" and 43" softboxes
50" square softbox
Shoot-through umbrellas
Bounce umbrellas
64" PLM umbrella
MagMod system with gels and cookies
Westcott Omega Reflector

Support & Accessories

Reliable support gear matters when speed and safety are part of the equation.

Flashpoint LTSP85ACH and LTSP10ACP light stands
Bogen 3216 light stick
Manfrotto 055MF3 Magfiber tripod

Metering & Color

Consistency starts with measurement. These tools help ensure predictable, repeatable results.

Sekonic L-758 light meter
X-Rite ColorChecker Passport

Software & Workflow

Post-processing is a continuation of the digital negative capture process, not a rescue operation.

Adobe Lightroom and Photoshop
Nik Collection
iMac M1, 16GB, 1TB SSD
MacbookAir M2, 8GB, 1TB SSD
Crucial X10 4TB portable SSD

Storage & Media

I use professional-grade media chosen for reliability, speed and American ties when possible.

Lexar, Sandisk and Delkin CFexpress cards
Crucial SSD for portable backup