Taylor and Joe at work in the edit bay, lit only by the monitors

Gear

The gear I reach for to bring stories to life. From video and photography to the little things that make visual storytelling easier, these are the tools I actually use and trust.

Cameras

The cameras we trust to tell the story.

Sony FX3

Sony FX3

We use the original FX3, which has since been replaced by the updated FX3A. It's our full-frame cinema camera and the one we reach for when we need the advantages of a larger sensor, especially in low light or situations where we want the extra dynamic range and flexibility.

Why we like it: Outstanding low-light performance, excellent dynamic range, reliable autofocus, and a beautiful full-frame image.

Sony FX30

Sony FX30

We have two FX30s, and honestly, these are the cameras we use the most. They're lightweight, easy to take anywhere, and give us excellent image quality without carrying around a big camera setup. They're our go-to cameras for interviews, B-roll, handheld shooting, and filming on the go.

Why we like them: Lightweight, compact, great autofocus, excellent image quality, and easy to grab and start shooting.

Audio

Because a great story needs great sound.

RØDE Wireless PRO

RØDE Wireless PRO

Our go-to wireless mic system and what we use for most interviews and planned shoots. The Wireless PRO gives us excellent, professional-quality sound while still being small and easy to work with. The onboard recording also gives us a backup, which is especially important when we only get one chance to capture an interview.

Why we like it: Professional sound quality, reliable wireless performance, onboard backup recording, and a compact setup that works well with our cameras.

DJI Mic Mini

DJI Mic Mini

Our choice when we want to move fast. The Mic Mini is tiny, lightweight, and incredibly quick to set up, making it great for run-and-gun shooting, B-roll, travel, or anytime we don't want audio gear slowing us down.

Why we like it: Tiny, lightweight, fast to set up, and easy to carry everywhere.

Lighting

Shaping the light that shapes the story.

Godox SL60IIBi

Godox SL60IIBi

A great all-around light for interviews, talking heads, and most indoor shoots. We usually pair it with a Godox 37" Octagon Softbox to create a soft, flattering key light. The Godox app also lets us adjust the light remotely, which is especially handy once everything is positioned. It's compact, bi-color, and powerful enough for most controlled setups. If we need to light a larger space or compete with daylight, that's when we'd step up to something in the 200–300W range.

Why we like it: Great value, adjustable color temperature, app control, plenty of output for most indoor shoots, and an excellent setup for a soft key light.

Lume Cube Studio Panel Lighting Kit

Lume Cube Studio Panel Lighting Kit

These are perfect when we need to set up quickly, shoot on the go, or work in a space where a larger light just isn't practical. We also use them frequently as a fill light alongside our main key light.

Why we like them: Lightweight, portable, fast to set up, and surprisingly versatile in tight spaces.

Everything Else

Bags, cards, lights, and the little things that save a shoot.

Peak Design Travel Backpack

Peak Design Travel Backpack

This is the bag we use when we're traveling with gear. It looks great, has excellent organization for camera equipment, and has room for a laptop and everything else we need for a shoot. There's enough space that it can even work as a one-bag travel setup. The laptop compartment isn't quite as easy to access as we'd like, but for organizing and protecting camera gear, it's hard to beat.

Why we like it: Great-looking design, excellent camera organization, plenty of storage, laptop space, and versatile enough for one-bag travel.

Aer Travel Pack

Aer Travel Pack

We have the Travel Pack 3, but the Travel Pack 4 is now the latest version. For all-around one-bag travel, this is our preferred option. It's comfortable, thoughtfully organized, and makes it easy to carry a laptop, clothes, and everything else we need without checking a bag.

Why we like it: Excellent organization, easy laptop access, comfortable to carry, and one of the best options we've found for one-bag travel.