Raymond Photography

While many say that “vision is everything, gear is nothing”, there is still a means to our final product that is worth recognizing. Also, while skill and experience defines a professional, the use of professional equipment really helps with the final product!

Below is a list of gear that I currently shoot with, along with a little description of each:

• Canon EOS 5D Mark II: My second camera ever and an amazing piece of equipment that is vital to my photographic vision. While not the lightest camera body around, the button layout and feel of the camera is just right.
• 580 EX II Speedlite: This was my very first flash and has been really invaluable. Not only does it command my other flashes using the Canon E-TTL system, but it is super powerful and can bounce light off everything including your kitchen sink!
• 430 EX II Speedlite: These flashes I use primarily for off-camera work. They never find their way onto my hot-shoe unless my 580 needs to take a rest. They are compact and can pack a punch especially when I’m trying to overpower the sun!
• Pocketwizard Flex TT5: My wireless triggers are really useful when I’m trying to throw my 430′s into hard to reach places and so far they have been super reliable! (Remember to get the shields if you’re using these with your 580′s!
• Sanyo Eneloop NiMH Batteries: When you need reliable and high performance batteries for your flashes, look no further than these batteries. Not only do they recycle your flash power with great speed, they hold their charge longer than any other NiMH batteries on the market. Plus 2000 mAh is lots of juice for full-power bursts.
• MAHA MH-C801D Charger: When you need to recharge those Eneloops, make sure you have a good charger. This one soft-charges as well as reconditions so I can minimize any capacity loss of my cells.
• Sigma 15mm f/2.8 DG Fisheye: I knew you were waiting on the lenses I use! This is my fisheye lens that is great for landscapes, architecture, and even some unique party shots. With great angle, comes great responsibility. Use sparingly.
• EF 28mm f/1.8 USM: I got this lens to continue my collection of primes (I love primes and only have one zoom!) and its a real workhorse. The angle is great for close-quarters and it focuses lightning quick. The only thing missing is a red ring, an L, and f/1.4. *cough* Canon make it! *cough*
• EF 35mm f/1.4L USM: I recently got this lens and I couldn’t be happier with it! I’m loving it for my event shooting!
• EF 50mm f/1.8: My first prime and what got me to really love primes. Soon to be replaced… in one point two perhaps?
• EF 85mm f/1.8 USM: Need a portrait lens? This has you covered. A great lens with lovely blur qualities and a good compact size too!
• EF 100mm f/2.8L IS USM Macro: While this lens really shines when shooting macro photos, it has become one of my favorite lenses for portraits as well. The sharpness is impeccable and the image stabilization is a very welcome addition. I often find this lens on my camera before my telephoto zoom!
• EF 70-200mm f/2.8L IS USM Mark I: The lens that defines professionals. Having this lens in my bag is (going to make it heavy) a statement because it is so versatile and the images I get from this workhorse are absolutely amazing. Worth its weight in gold!
• Manfrotto 190CXPRO3 Tripod Legs with Gitzo Ball Head: Almost as important as my camera and lens choice is the support system required. The combination of carbon-fiber tripod legs and the stability of a Gitzo Ball Head helps me to create some truly magical images.
• Shootsac by Jessica Claire w/ Shoulder Pad: When you see me shooting, you’ll see a bag slung around me holding my gear. This lens bag has been a godsend! I can easily access my lenses, batteries, memory cards, and anything else I need while shooting. Highly recommended! The shoulder pad is a necessity especially when you’re carrying a full arsenal of lenses.

The above list is constantly evolving as my vision continues to grow.