Equipment I Use Today

Back in the day, as I like to call it, capturing a moment under adverse conditions proved challenging. Dim lighting and low film sensitivity were the primary limitations. Things have improved dramatically today. I routinely capture images at the very limit of what my eye can perceive. Digital camera sensors and autofocus systems on professional cameras certainly improve my chances of producing images in situations that were virtually impossible just a decade ago. Yet I fall back on what I learned in those early days to push my limits just a bit further. It just goes to prove that there is no substitute for experience.

I use only Nikon FX cameras with pro grade lenses in my work. All have "full frame" sensors as opposed to the "crop sensors" found in amateur cameras. All my lenses, both zoom and prime are f/2.8 or faster, that is, optimized for low light level work.

What I carry on an assignment varies with venue, lighting, and the type of photos my client requires. Stage performances will necessitate different cameras and lenses than posed promo shots. Small dimly lit night clubs and large arenas also require different tools.

The photo on this page shows my typical "daytime outdoor music festival" setup. Two camera bodies to limit changing lenses to minimize dust on the sensors. In this case, a Nikon D3X and a Nikon D700 with 70-200 f/2.8 and 24-70 f/2.8 Nikon zoom lenses. In the bag also is a 105mm f/2 DC for portraits and a 14mm f/2.8 ultra wide angle. Pretty much used it all over the course of three days and not once found myself wanting more. For night time festivals, I would replace the Nikon D3X with a Nikon D4. I typically take one camera body and two lenses to a small club.

If you have specific questions about my equipment, drop me a note and I will be happy to discuss them with you.