I upgraded to the Canon R6 Mark II to support documentary photography and video in fast-moving, real world environments. The camera’s low light performance, responsive autofocus, and reliable video capabilities allow me to work efficiently without interrupting the flow of events or interviews.

Its ability to move seamlessly between stills and motion supports a video-forward approach while maintaining the image quality required for editorial work. The R6 Mark II is a dependable tool that enables clear, focused visual storytelling while staying unobtrusive in the field.

The Canon EF 400mm f/5.6L USM has been a core lens for surf photography, allowing for tight, detailed framing from shore while tracking fast moving subjects in open water. Its quick autofocus and lightweight design make it well suited for capturing decisive moments in dynamic coastal conditions.

The lens is most effective in strong natural light and remains a dependable option for documenting action at a distance without disrupting the environment or the athlete.

The Canon EF-S 10–22mm f/3.5–4.5 USM was originally used for water based surf photography, capturing wide, immersive perspectives that place the viewer inside the action. Its broad field of view made it effective for close proximity shooting in challenging conditions.

Today, the lens is primarily used for skateboarding and lifestyle photography, where environmental context and movement are central to the story. It continues to serve as a versatile tool for capturing space, energy, and setting in a single frame.

The RØDE VideoMic is a directional on camera microphone used to capture focused, natural sound in documentary and event based video work. Its shotgun design helps isolate voices and ambient details while reducing surrounding noise in uncontrolled environments.

Lightweight and easy to deploy, the VideoMic is well suited for run and gun shooting, sound bites, and observational footage where speed and simplicity matter. It’s commonly used for short interviews and community storytelling, allowing conversations and moments to be captured clearly without disrupting the environment.

The Canon EF-S 18–55mm f/3.5–5.6 is a versatile standard zoom used for event coverage and lifestyle photography. Its focal range supports a wide mix of environmental shots, candid moments, and general scene coverage in fast moving settings.

Lightweight and adaptable, the lens is well suited for situations that require flexibility and mobility, making it a reliable option for capturing moments as they unfold without frequent lens changes. It remains a useful part of my kit for events where responsiveness and range matter more than specialization.

The Canon EF 75–300mm f/4–5.6 III is an entry level telephoto zoom that offers extended reach in a compact, lightweight form. It’s a versatile option for general use and occasional telephoto needs when portability is a priority.

While this lens is used less frequently in my current workflow, it remains part of my kit as a flexible backup option. Like many photographers, some tools reflect earlier stages of exploration and learning, serving as a reminder that evolving work often means refining not just how we shoot, but what we choose to carry.

• FP Mode, or high-speed sync, allows the camera to sync with flash at higher shutter speeds
• Second-curtain sync fires the flash at the end of the exposure, allowing streak of light to flow naturally behind the movement of the subject
• Wireless TTL flash when triggered by other on-camera 580EX; or when combined with ST-E2 Transmitter & multiple 580 or 550 EX's