My Gear
i know, i know…the latest and greatest gear is often heralded as the key to unlocking creative potential. but I stand as a testament to a different truth. The essence of truly impactful content creation doesn’t lie in the camera you wield or the cutting-edge software at your fingertips. It’s about the spark of creativity you bring to the table and the compelling narratives you craft. Take it from someone who’s been in the trenches of creativity for over two decades: the tools you use are merely instruments; it’s your vision that orchestrates the masterpiece.
Since 2015 (and for some projects, before), my go-to equipment has been as unassuming as iPhones and action cameras, alongside the cherished “vintage” tech that some might hastily label as obsolete. Yet, in this journey, not once have my clients inquired about the make or model of my camera. They seek out my expertise, my storytelling, the unique perspective I infuse into my work, and the portfolio that speaks volumes of my creative journey.
My editing suite? A 12.9-inch iPad Pro that has been my steadfast companion since 2018, challenging the conventional reliance on bulky desktop setups and proving that innovation knows no bounds.
Here’s a nugget of wisdom from my years in the field: channel your investments into experiences and storytelling tools that elevate your work. I’ve embraced this approach, prioritizing a few well-chosen props and real-world experiences over an arsenal of lenses and cameras. The true catalyst for growth as a creator lies in the adventures you embark on and the knowledge you amass along the way.
Push yourself beyond the familiar horizons, take the funds you might have allocated for the latest gear, and venture on a photographic expedition armed with nothing but your phone or a single camera and a single lens. When you do consider gear, let your choices be guided by what genuinely enhances your craft – be it lighting solutions, stabilizing gear, or tools that streamline your workflow. And remember, simplicity often breeds creativity; embracing a minimalist approach can unveil your signature style.
In my toolkit, you’ll find items meticulously chosen for their ability to enrich the storytelling experience – from lighting rigs that cast the perfect shadows to supports that offer just the right angle. And let’s not forget my production rig, a 27-year-old 3rd generation Toyota 4runner, paired with an editing setup that’s as mobile as my spirit. This approach isn’t just about making do; it’s about making better. Because in the end, it’s not the gear that defines us; it’s how we use it to connect, tell stories, and inspire.
The Yellow Rig is made possible by:
ATOTO Car Stereos, Atturo Tires, Blue Ridge Overland Gear, Bodega Coolers, Devos Outdoor, Discount Tire, Fittipaldi Wheels, Maaco Auto Body, onX Offroad, Pelican Cases, RAM Mounts, Renogy, Rotopax, and Topo Designs.
My Content Creation Toolkit:
Cameras
I use an iPhone 15 Pro Max for all still photos and as my primary video camera.
I use an Insta360 One RS 1-inch Edition camera for b-roll and another Insta360 One RS 1-inch Edition as a dash am (also for b-roll), an Insta360 One RS 1-inch 360 Edition camera (more b-roll), and an Insta360 Go 3 camera for even more b-roll.
I use a DJI Mini 4 Pro drone for aerial video.
Support: Moza Slypod Pro and Manfrotto monopods, tripods, & light stands.
Audio: Rode mics & Zoom recorders.
Lighting: Aputure, Devos Outdoor, & Godox lights.
Editing Station: Apple M2 12.9" iPad Pro (WiFi, 1TB) paired with a Dell 34" super-wide screen monitor. I use a CalDigit TS3+ Hub with a Samsung T7 4TB SSD for extra storage. When I'm working from home, I use an Apple Magic Keyboard and an Apple Magic Mouse. On the road and in the field, I use the Apple Smart Keyboard Folio and an Apple Pencil. Straightforward, simple, simple, simple.
Editing Software: While I use several different apps to edit video, photos, and audio, the primary apps I use are Apple's Final Cut Pro X, CapCut, davinci resolve, and Insta360 Studio for video on both mobile and desktop; Darkroom and Snapseed for photos; and Apple LogicPro for audio.
Gear Storage: Blue Ridge Overland Gear, Pelican Cases, and Topo Designs Packs & Bags.
Media Storage: Samsung external SSDs and Western Digital Red Pro NAS Internal Hard Drives. I use a 12TB Apple iCloud plan for file synching across devices and long-term archiving.
For the final touch, I either create music and sfx myself, or source music and sound effects from platforms like Audiio.com, Birocratic.com, Lens Distortions, Moods Sound Design, and Tropic Colour to breathe life into my content.
*Updated 03/26/2024