Pro Photographer's Equipment Secrets: Insider View by Jack Robert

Written By Jack Connolly

Join Greenville, SC based Editorial, Commercial, Branding, and Lifestyle photographer Jack Robert as he takes you on a journey of his equipment choices, the reasons behind them, and where he buys them

Comprehensive List of Equipment (Click each subject title to jump to my reviews and how I utilize each piece)

Click here to Jump To Cameras Review

Click here to jump to Lenses

Click here to jump to Computer review

Click here to jump to lighting reviews

Click here to jump to Stands & Accessories

Click here to jump to Modifiers


Click here to jump to memory and hard drives

Click here to jump to Compression and Archiving Software

  • Rawsie (Get 10% off using code JACK10)

  • Carbon Copy Cloner


Why I buy all of my equipment at Best Buy 

As a professional photographer in Greenville, SC, with over ten years of experience, Best Buy is my go-to destination for all of my photography equipment needs. One of the main reasons I choose to shop at Best Buy is their amazing damage policy as a Total Tech Member. Accidents happen, and it's comforting to know that if I accidentally damage a product while handling it, Best Buy will take care of it.

In addition to their damage policy, Best Buy also provides annual maintenance for my DSLR or mirrorless camera. If there's ever a failure from normal wear and tear, they'll repair it at no extra cost to me. This peace of mind is invaluable to a professional photographer like myself, as it allows me to focus on what I do best - capturing beautiful images - without worrying about the reliability of my equipment.

Another perk of shopping at Best Buy is their priority customer service. Best Buy's team is always ready to assist me with any questions or concerns I may have. As a professional, my time is valuable, and I appreciate receiving prompt and efficient service when I need it.

I've also taken advantage of their "My Best Buy" credit card, which either gives me 5% back or allows me to pay for things over 12 or 18 months with zero interest (for the love of god, only use credit cards if you pay them off EVERY MONTH IF THEY DONT HAVE ZERO PERCENT INTEREST).

Lastly, Best Buy's return policy is a game-changer. As a Best Buy Totaltech™ member, most products are eligible for a 60-day return, which means I can shop confidently, knowing that if I'm not completely satisfied with my purchase, I can return it hassle-free while not worrying about damaging the products due to their generous accidental damage coverage.

Best Buy is my go-to destination for all of my photography equipment needs. Their damage policy, annual maintenance, priority customer service, credit card options, and return policy make them the best choice for me as a professional photographer. 

What if Best Buy doesn't have what I need?

While Best Buy is my go-to destination for most of my photography equipment needs, I also rely on Adorama and B&H for those niche pieces of equipment Best Buy may not carry.

Adorama and B&H are great websites to purchase equipment, and I have had great experiences with customer service from both companies. They have a wide range of options, and their prices are competitive.

One downside to B&H is that they are closed online quite a bit throughout the year. This can be an inconvenience when I need to purchase something urgently or if I am looking to buy something online. But overall, the customer service, pricing, and variety of options make it worth dealing with their closures.

In conclusion, as a professional photographer, it's important to have a variety of reliable equipment sources. Best Buy, Adorama, and B&H are all great options, each with their own unique perks and downsides. I highly recommend considering them all when making your next equipment purchase.

Cameras 

Canon R5

Canon R6

Unleashing the Power of the Canon R5: The Ultimate Tool for Professional Photography

As a professional photographer, having the right equipment is crucial. That's why I rely on the Canon R5 for all my photography needs. This camera is a game-changer, packed with features that make it the ultimate tool for capturing stunning images.

One of the most impressive features of the Canon R5 is its advanced eye-tracking technology. This allows me to capture portraits quickly and easily, even on the run. The camera's autofocus system tracks the subject's eyes, ensuring that they are always in focus, no matter how fast they're moving. This is especially useful when working with children and animals, as they tend to move around a lot.


How the Canon R5's High-Resolution Sensor is a Game-Changer

As a professional photographer, editorial work is a big part of my portfolio. And when it comes to capturing images that tell a story and convey a message, the Canon R5's high-resolution sensor has been a lifesaver. With 45 megapixels, this camera can capture incredible detail and clarity. The high-resolution sensor allows me to see every detail in the image, which is essential when working on editorial projects where the image needs to tell a story and convey a message. This means publishers can print large-format photos without losing any quality.

Additionally, the camera has a wide dynamic range, which allows me to capture images with a lot of depth and dimensionality. This is especially useful when working in challenging lighting conditions, such as bright sunlight or dark interiors. The wide dynamic range allows me to capture images with a lot of detail in the highlights and shadows, which is crucial when working on editorial projects where the image needs to be as detailed and accurate as possible.

Another advantage of the Canon R5's high-resolution sensor is that it allows me to crop images without losing quality. This is particularly useful when working on editorial projects, where the image may need to be cropped or resized to fit a specific layout or format. But it's not just about the technicalities. The Canon R5 also has a great design and ergonomics; it's comfortable to hold and easy to navigate through the menu, which makes it a pleasure to work with. The Canon R5 is an essential piece of equipment for any professional photographer. It's packed with advanced features that make it the ultimate tool for capturing stunning images. Whether quick on-the-run portraits or high-resolution stills, the Canon R5 has everything you need to take your photography to the next level.

Why I use the Canon R6

When it comes to capturing stunning images and videos, photographers and videographers are always on the lookout for the latest and greatest equipment. And while the Canon R5 has undoubtedly made a splash in the world of photography and videography, its little brother, the Canon R6, is also a camera worth considering.

One of the most significant advantages of the R6 is its smaller file size. Hard drive space can quickly become an issue when working with large files. The Canon R6's smaller file size means that you can store more images and videos on your hard drive, making it easier to manage your workflow. Additionally, the smaller file size also means that the Canon R6 is less demanding on your computer's processing power, allowing you to work more efficiently and with less lag.

When it comes to image quality, the Canon R6 doesn't disappoint. The camera has a 20.1-megapixel full-frame sensor that produces stunning images with rich colors and sharp details. The camera also has a high-speed autofocus system, making capturing fast-moving subjects easy. Additionally, the Canon R6 can shoot up to 12 frames per second, making it perfect for grabbing action shots and sports.

LENSES

Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Lens

Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens

Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM Lens

Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens

Tamron 17-35 2.8-4

Canon RF Lenses: A Greenville, SC Photographer's Review

As a photographer based in Greenville, South Carolina, I've had the pleasure of working with a variety of Canon camera lenses. But there are a few that stand out as my absolute favorites. Allow me to share my personal experience with these amazing lenses.

Starting off strong with the Canon RF 35mm f/1.8 Macro IS STM Lens

The ultimate tool for capturing awe-inspiring close-up shots. The macro capability allows me to get up close and personal with my subjects, while the f/1.8 aperture creates a mesmerizing bokeh effect. The Image Stabilization (IS) feature is a game-changer, ensuring I can capture sharp images even in dimly lit conditions. This lens has also become my go-to travel companion, paired with my Canon R5. The 35mm focal length is the perfect balance for capturing landscapes, architecture, and cityscapes without distorting the faces of the people I want to photograph. I've used it for street photography, macro photography, landscapes, and architecture and I love that it's lightweight and super sharp.


Up next is the Canon RF 50mm f/1.2L USM Lens, a game-changer for portrait photographers. The f/1.2 aperture serves up the ultimate bokeh and makes capturing dreamy, ethereal portraits a breeze. The USM autofocus is lightning fast, never letting you miss a shot, and the 50mm focal length is a perfect balance for full-body and headshot portraits. This lens is the default on my camera, and it's so versatile and sharp I want to cry. I've had the EF versions of this lens, including the 50mm 1.8, then the 50mm 1.2 for my previous cameras, and now the RF 50 1.2. I didn't think the 50 1.2 could get any sharper, but with this RF version, they've really blown my mind.


The Canon RF 85mm f/1.2 L USM Lens is another new favorite of mine. I've resisted for the longest time getting this lens, but I've finally made the dive after five years of debating it- and I'm not disappointed. I was initially planning on just trying this lens out for an event and returning it- however, its 1.2 aperture was stone-cold amazing for low light situations and getting candids. Not only is it a powerhouse in low light- it's probably the best portrait lens if you have the physical space to be quite a distance from your subject. The f/1.2 aperture creates an incredibly shallow depth of field and produces a beautiful bokeh effect. The lens is a bit on the heavier side, but the build quality is top-notch, and the image quality is second to none.



Finally, the Canon RF 70-200mm f/2.8 L IS USM Lens is an absolute powerhouse. The older EF version was the most reliable and loyal lens I have ever used. It never missed focus and always gave me a fantastic image. I trust it with my life. The new RF version is lighter, so I went with it instead of just using the EF to RF adapter. On the RF Version, the lens extends out when zooming, and I don't particularly enjoy that- but it's not a deal breaker. Is it my go-to lens? No, but I will 100% recommend having it in your bag for many cases. This lens is perfect for capturing family photos, portraits, couples, sports, nature, and wildlife. The long focal length allows me to capture distant subjects easily, and the f/2.8 aperture creates a beautiful bokeh effect. The Image Stabilization (IS) feature is a lifesaver when working in low-light conditions. The build quality is top-notch, and the image quality is simply outstanding.



These four Canon lenses are my go-to choices for capturing stunning images and videos. These lenses have never let me down, from portraits to close-ups to architecture and nature. They are versatile and reliable and produce some of the most beautiful images and videos I've ever captured. I highly recommend them to any photographer looking to expand their lens collection. Whether a professional or hobbyist, these lenses will help you take your photography to the next level.



The last honorable mention is my Tamron 17-35 2.8-4. I bought this on a whim because I needed a wider-angle lens for interiors. It's a bit on the cheaper side, but I've been satisfied with it. I use it on the regular for interior photoshoots when I need that extra view and don't have the physical space to back up. At 17mm, it doesn't distort the edges enough for it to be a bad photo, but I'd be careful when shooting architecture to watch those edges. I also utilize this lens for low, wide-angle shots of models and buildings. It creates a cool effect, giving the subject an automatic power angle over the viewer. 

Do I really need a MacBook Pro!? Yes. I'm also slightly biased towards Apple and know other photographers that use windows computers just fine, but Apple products' premium and luxury experience draw me in. The seamless transitions between iPad, iPhone, and Mac are absolutely magic. Did you know with Apple, you can copy text on your phone and then hit paste on your computer, and it appears there!? It's in the small details that make Apple really stand out.

Regarding the M1 Pro Max laptop, I wanted a portable powerhouse, and Apple delivered what I needed with this laptop. When I upgraded to the Canon R5 with 50MB files, I HAD to upgrade my computer to slay large file sizes with ease. When editing thousands of photos, having a photo even take .5 seconds to load wastes A LOT of time. I needed the fastest computer I could get, not the cheapest or the most bang for my buck. The M1 Pro Max Processor and 32GB of ram easily handle my 50 MB file sizes. 

I know Apple products are premium. I know you can build a windows laptop or PC for WAY less and have it be WAY faster- but I put a strong emphasis on the whole ecosystem of Apple and its seamless, luxury experience. 

My go-to: Flashpoint XPLOR 600 R2 Manual HSS Battery-Powered All-In-One Outdoor Flash. I have three of them, but you having just one is more than enough for most situations. The Flashpoint XPLOR 600 is a powerful and versatile light that, if used correctly, can perfectly balance natural and artificial light. With its 600ws power output and fast recycling time, this light allows me to capture stunning images in even the most challenging lighting conditions. I can overpower the SUN with this bad boy.

One of the best features of the Flashpoint AD600 is its ability to be used wirelessly and portably due to its detachable battery, which gives me the freedom to move around and capture the perfect shot. The Flashpoint XPLOR 600  also has a built-in 2.4G wireless X system, allowing me to control the light remotely and make adjustments as needed. The Flashpoint XPLOR 600  is an essential piece of equipment for any professional photographer. It gives me the power to overcome any lighting challenge and capture beautiful images no matter where or when. With this light, I can unlock the full potential of my Canon R5 and achieve the desired results every time.

Another key accessory, the extension: Flashpoint Portable 600ws Extension FlashHead For The XPLOR 600 (Bowens Mount)

The Flashpoint XPLOR 600ws 8-foot extension head is a powerful addition to any photographer's gear. It transforms the XPLOR600 series monolight into a versatile powerhouse, perfect for use with softboxes or as a gridded hair light. The extension head connects easily to any XPLOR by unplugging the glass shielded flashtube from the monolight body, locking the pronged cable link in place, and then inserting the original flashtube on the head extension sockets. This simple process allows for a quick and easy setup, making it an excellent option for photographers who need to work efficiently and quickly. I don't leave home without it. 

Another wise choice is to purchase Backup Bulbs for this light. Yeah, I know they aren't cheap, but I've had one rattle out of the socket and smash on the ground when rolling it along on my Kupo Runway Rolling Base.

You also need to have a way to trigger your strobes, and I use my trusty Flashpoint R2 PRO 2.4GHz Transmitter for Canon (XPro-C) Godox and Flashpoint are the same exact equipment, just different names. You can control multiple strobes and adjust them individually from this transmitter. It's a gamer changer, so you don't have to go to each strobe and change their settings physically. I've been using this trigger for years, and I've had zero issues with it.

STANDS & ACCESSORIES

Flashpoint Heavy-Duty Air-Cushioned Light 3-Stand Kit (9.5') (Lightweight)

ROLLING BASE Kupo Runway Stand Base (AMAZING) 

Flashpoint C-Stand Riser Column (9' Silver)

10.5' Turtle Base C-Stand and Grip Arm Kit, Chrome

Super Clamp with Ratchet Handle

Let's talk about photography's often-overlooked but essential aspect: stands and accessories. They may not be the most exciting topic, but trust me; they can make or break a photoshoot. I rely on the Flashpoint Heavy-Duty Air-Cushioned Light 3-Stand Kit for lightweight, on-the-go situations. The plastic and metal construction keeps it lightweight without sacrificing durability, making it perfect for quick in-and-out photoshoots. But be warned, if you're planning to use it outside, weigh it down with sandbags or have an assistant hold it. Otherwise, it will topple over faster than a game of Jenga. Trust me, investing in the right stands and accessories will make your photography experience smoother and more efficient.

One of the greatest investments of my career

When it comes to stands, my go-to and best purchase has been the combination of the Kupo Runway Stand Base with the Flashpoint C-Stand And an added boom arm. The rolling base feature is a game changer, making loading in and out of photoshoots a breeze by allowing me to hang equipment from the stand rather than carry it all. And during the shoot, the convenience of easily rolling the light, modifier, and stand is unbeatable. If I had to pinpoint any regret in my photography gear purchases, it would be not investing in a rolling base for my c-stand earlier in my career. I cannot recommend this combo enough; it's truly essential for any professional photographer looking to streamline their workflow and save their back from carrying heavy equipment.

Having a variety of stands and accessories at your disposal is crucial for any professional photographer; it allows you to adapt to any situation and get the perfect shot. In addition to my rolling base c-stand combo, I also have a trusty 10.5' Turtle Base C-Stand and Grip Arm Kit, Chrome. This classic c-stand is perfect when I need an extra spot to place a light or modifier. The added boom arm is essential for versatility in positioning and placing the modifier at any angle. And let's remember the importance of sandbags. They are crucial to keeping your stand and equipment safe and secure, so invest in a good set.

The Westcott 7' Parabolic Umbrella is an excellent option for creating a large, soft light source. Its 7' span provides ample coverage, making it perfect for achieving a natural-looking catchlight in the eyes. Additionally, the umbrella's white interior helps diffuse the light, producing a soft, even glow. Don't even think you will utilize this in small spaces, though! A tall ceiling and a must if you want to place this modifier in a way that is flattering to the subject. Using this modifier is nice if you have more than one person or groups of people you need to photograph. On another note, the umbrella is also collapsible and easy to transport, making it a convenient choice for photographers on the go. I use this modifier 20% of the time. 


The Godox Softbox with Bowens Speed Ring and Grid (13.8 x 63") Can be an excellent modifier for your photography or videography, but it can be pretty tricky and time-consuming to set up. The softbox features four poles that need to be inserted into the corners of the fabric and then into the center ring, which can be a hassle and requires some muscle to assemble. It may not be the best option if you're in a rush or don't want to be seen struggling to set it up. Despite its inconvenience in setup, the rectangular shape of the softbox, measuring 13.8 x 63 inches, makes it ideal for side lighting and backlighting, allowing you to achieve beautiful and natural-looking results. It is a versatile tool that can be useful for portraits, product photography, and videography. You can still consider keeping it in your arsenal as it can be a great addition to your lighting setup, but be aware of the setup time and effort required when using it.

The Westcott Rapid Box Switch Octa-S with Bowens Switch Insert with Bowens Switch Insert is a fantastic addition to any photographer's arsenal. This is my most recent modifier, and I am thrilled that I have it in my collection. It is a portable and collapsible beauty dish that is versatile and can be used in a variety of situations. It's been especially helpful in architectural photography due to its small size- as I use it to light different parts of the subject (room, building, etc.) to combine them all in photoshop into one beautiful and seamlessly lit photo. It's also been great for fashion and editorial portraits. The octa shape of the softbox provides a beautiful wrap-around light, perfect for creating a natural and flattering light on the subject. The Bowens Switch Insert makes it easy to attach to a wide range of strobe lights, making it a convenient option for on-location shoots. All in all, the Westcott Rapid Box Switch Octa-S with Bowens Switch Insert is a great investment for any photographer looking for a portable, compact and versatile lighting solution.

The 48" EZ Lock Octa Quick XL Softbox with Bowens Mount is my ultimate go-to modifier. It's an excellent choice for any photographer looking for a versatile, portable lighting solution. Its 48-inch size is just the right size for creating beautiful, soft light that can cover a wide range of subjects. The octagon shape of the softbox provides a natural and flattering light that is perfect for portraits, product photography, and more. The EZ Lock design makes it quick and easy to set up, so you can spend more time taking pictures and less time fiddling with equipment. The included Bowens mount makes it compatible with a wide range of strobe lights, making it a convenient option for on-location shoots. Additionally, the grid that comes with the softbox allows you to control the light and direct it exactly where you need it, making it even more versatile. Overall, the 48" EZ Lock Octa Quick XL Softbox with Bowens Mount is an excellent choice for anyone needing a portable, easy-to-set-up, and versatile softbox.

As a professional photographer, I am always looking for the best tools to elevate my craft. That's why I love the SanDisk 128GB Extreme PRO UHS-II memory card. This little powerhouse allows me to easily capture stunning cinema-quality 8K, 4K, and Full HD video (not that I ever do as a photographer, but anyway), as well as raw photos and continuous shutter bursts. The storage capacity of 128GB gives me plenty of room to store all of my precious shots, and the UHS-II bus supports lightning-fast read speeds of up to 300 MB/s and write speeds of up to 260 MB/s. The V90 Video Speed Class rating ensures that my write speeds will never drop below 90 MB/s, giving me peace of mind when shooting in high-pressure situations.

What sets this memory card apart from the rest is its reliability. I've been using Sandisk memory cards for years, and they have never let me down. Even my card from five years ago still works like a charm. I've even tried other memory cards like CFExpress, with its impressive 1200mb/s read and write speeds, but I couldn't see any difference when it came to shooting or loading images onto my computer. The SD Card is also a convenient size and fits perfectly in my MacBook Pro's SD card slot. I don't have to lug around a card reader and cord, which is a huge plus in my book. In short, if you're a professional photographer or videographer, the SanDisk 128GB UHS-II SDXC memory card is an absolute must-have in your kit.

My working hard drive, the Samsung - T7 1TB External USB 3.2 Gen 2 Portable SSD with Hardware Encryption - Titan Gray

After a killer photoshoot, I like to transfer my shots straight to my trusty Samsung SSD. Why? Because editing on a lightning-fast hard drive is where it's at, plus it gives me the added bonus of being able to take my SSD on the road with me. That way, if my computer gets jacked, my precious pics are safe and sound. Plus, it keeps my MBP running smoothly by not clogging up valuable internal HD space. Once my edits are complete, and I send the photos to the client for approval and further edits, I use Rawsie to compress them and then back 'em up on three different hard drives. #backupqueen #workflowwinning

The WD - My Passport Ultra 4TB External USB 3.0 Portable Hard Drive - Blue

After loading my photos onto the Samsung SSD, I back them up to a larger, slower HD - like the WD - My Passport Ultra 4TB. And not just one, but two of those bad boys. Because let's face it, you can never be too safe regarding the photos you shoot for a client. Is it overkill? Maybe, but as a photographer, my job is to capture, edit, deliver and preserve photos, which means being as backed up as possible. Plus, there have been a few times where files got misplaced during transfer and having those extra hard drives saved the day. The WD 4TB is the perfect size for a year or two of content, and when it's full or two years have gone by, I put a date frame sticker on it and archive it in a fireproof safe for added protection. 

FILE COMPRESSION

RAWSIE

Picture this: you're out in the field, capturing stunning shots left and right, and then you get back to your studio and realize your hard drive is bursting at the seams with RAW files. Sound familiar? Well, not anymore. Introducing Rawsie - the ultimate raw image compression app that packs a punch. With up to 5:1 file size reduction, it's a game-changer for photographers like us who shoot with Sony, Canon, Nikon, Fujifilm, and more. And the best part? It's lossless, which means no lossy artifacts, no resolution change, no bit count change, and no color loss—just pure, pristine image quality.

But that's not all; Rawsie is incredibly user-friendly and straightforward. It's like having a personal assistant for your image compression needs. Plus, it's a money-saver in the long run. Trust me, I've been using it for a while now, and it has been a lifesaver.

So, if you're ready to revolutionize your workflow and reclaim valuable storage space, head on over to Rawsie's website and use the code JACK10 upon checkout for an extra 10% off your purchase, trust me, you won't regret it.

ARCHIVING

Carbon Copy Cloner

Having a reliable backup solution is crucial, and that's where Carbon Copy Cloner comes in. This software offers a plethora of options for creating backups. Whether it's on an external drive or another Macintosh, you have the flexibility to choose what you want to back up, be it an individual folder or an entire external hard drive.

I've been using CCC for some time now, and I have to say, it makes creating a carbon copy of my files incredibly easy. However, I did run into an issue where deleting files off of one hard drive resulted in them being deleted off the hard drive I was carbon copying to. This is something to keep in mind, but overall, CCC has been a solid choice for me.

In conclusion, if you're looking for a comprehensive and flexible backup solution,Carbon Copy Cloner is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware of the potential pitfall I encountered with file deletion.


Final thoughts

And there you have it, folks. I've just laid out all the nitty-gritty details of the tools and equipment I rely on to get the job done. But this is just the beginning. I want to hear from you too. What are your burning questions? What would you like to know more about? Let's start a dialogue on our work processes, the gear we trust, and any experiences we've had with similar equipment. We can all learn from each other and improve our workflow. So, please don't be shy, leave a comment and let's get this conversation started!


Disclaimer: All the equipment on this page has been tested and approved by yours truly. I've spilled the tea on real-world usage and am sharing my faves with you. The links provided are either the exact products I own or similar alternatives. Bonus: Using the links will support my blog and biz - love you for it!

Jack Connolly https://www.jackrobertphoto.com
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