The Tools I Use -- and Why

I don’t believe great photographs must come from great gear. Great photos are decided by everything that comes together before you push the button -- light, judgment, experience. The tools below are simply what I choose to support my work for their speed, reliability, flexibility and precision in real-world conditions.

This list changes over time, but the principles behind it don't.

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

Photography gear on a studio shelf, including cameras, lenses, and lighting equipment used for real-world shooting