Revamping My Gear: A Comprehensive Look at My Updated Sony Photography Arsenal
Hello fellow photography enthusiasts! It's been an exciting journey for me, exploring and updating my camera gear to better suit my evolving needs and preferences. In this blog post, I'll walk you through the recent changes I've made to my setup, particularly with a focus on my trusty Sony equipment.
The Workhorse: Sony A7R III
My journey starts with the workhorse of my photography endeavours, the Sony A7R III. This full-frame powerhouse has been my go-to for capturing high-resolution images with stunning detail and dynamic range for all my photograph jobs. Paired with the Sigma 85mm or Tamron 70-180mm, it has been my reliable companion for portrait and headshot sessions in studios, schools for the child portraits, or on location for corporate headshots.
Wedding Magic: A Lens Combo Shuffle
Weddings demand versatility, and my previous go-to combo was the Tamron 28-75mm and 70-180mm, along with the Sigma 85mm and 35mm primes for low-light situations. When Tamron brought out their 35-150 lens, many photographers said it was the perfect option for weddings. Versatile, great focal length for different situations, and an aperture of 2-2.8 across the range. I have recently bought the Samyang 35-150mm at a bargain price which I couldn’t refuse and it has transformed my wedding photography game. This all-in-one lens means I no longer have to juggle between multiple lenses during a ceremony or reception, streamlining my workflow and ensuring I never miss a moment. I can have this wide focal length on my main body with a sharp prime on my second camera for special moments. A lighter bag and less equipment to worry about on the day.
Upgrading to Sony A6700
I have always recognised the need for a capable second camera and relied heavily on my old a6000 and a6300 cameras for this responsibility. They never let me down but I upgraded my A6300 to the new Sony A6700. With exceptional video capabilities and autofocus, it just feels that bit more professional and capable for my workload. It’s video settings with 4k 120fps it excellent. It is also now my dedicated handycam for family holidays. This move not only ensures high-quality family photos but also alleviates the worry of exposing my A7R III to potential mishaps during casual outings.
The Compact Travel Kit
One of the most significant changes in my gear lineup is the creation of a perfect travel photography kit. The A6700, armed with the Sony 10-18mm for wide shots, the versatile 18-105mm for day-to-day captures, and the compact and light Sony 70-350mm for nature and wildlife shots, makes for a highly portable and powerful combination. I also throw in the tiny Sigma 30mm f2.8 for darker environments. This was actually the first lens I had for my first ever sony camera, my NEX-7 and I got some incredible shots with it.
Refined Prime Selection for A6700
For specific situations, such as weddings and portraits with the A6700, I've carefully chosen the Sigma 23mm and 56mm primes. These lenses provide excellent sharpness and flexibility, catering to the unique requirements of crop sensor shooting. They give the equivalent focal lengths of 35mm and 85mm respectively and give those sharp photos in dark lighting on wedding days with lovely bokeh.
Conclusion: Crafting the Ideal Setup
In conclusion, my updated Sony photography arsenal is a result of careful consideration and adaptation to my evolving photography and videography needs. The Samyang 35-150mm has become the cornerstone for various shoots, while the A6700 now serves a dual purpose as a reliable second camera and a family handycam. The carefully curated lens selection ensures I'm always ready for any photographic adventure.
I'm thrilled with the versatility and performance of my revamped gear, and I hope this journey inspires fellow photographers to reassess and optimise their equipment for their unique needs. As always, happy shooting!
