Quick guide: modern content producer, experienced overviewer

This is a photographic and video all-rounder. Her week might include capturing a client's brand images on Monday, recording an exciting event on Wednesday, capturing stunning scenery on a weekend trip and tying it all together with a YouTube video or Instagram reel.

He is a storyteller whose toolbox must provide a solution to almost any situation. The environment ranges from urban cityscapes to the tranquillity of nature, from a dim studio to bright daylight. This photographer values versatility, reliable autofocus and excellent image quality in both stills and video above all else. It's not about being an absolute master of every aspect, but about being able to produce a high quality and consistent image in all conditions.

Camera

Sony A7 III or A7 IV. These cameras are modern classics for a reason. They are true hybrid cameras that excel in both still and video photography. The A7 III is still an incredibly capable and value-for-money choice, while the A7 IV raises the bar even further with better resolution, more advanced autofocus and video capabilities. Both are made for the photographer who needs one body for everything.

Lens

24-70mm f/2.8 zoom. This is the ”holy trinity” lens that covers everything from wide-angle landscapes to tight potshots. The f/2.8 aperture ensures good performance in low light and allows for beautiful background blur. The Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II, Sigma 24-70mm f/2.8 DG DN | Art or Tamron 28-75mm f/2.8 Di III VXD G2 are perfect partners for this photographer.

Additional information

A high-quality on-camera microphone. Since video is a big part of a content producer's job, sound quality is at least as important as image quality. For example, a Rode VideoMic Pro+ or Sony ECM-B10 microphone will dramatically improve the sound quality of your video compared to an in-camera microphone.

Filming tips

1. Learn how to use the aperture preselection mode (A/Av). It's the fastest way to control depth of field. For portraits, use a wide aperture (e.g. f/2.8) to isolate the subject from the background, and for landscape shots use a small aperture (e.g. f/8-f/11) to keep everything sharp.

2. Take advantage of the camera's customisable buttons. Assign your frequently used functions, such as Eye AF or focus area change, to easily accessible buttons. This will greatly speed up your work in the field.

3. Shoot video using the Picture Profile settings. Learn how to use a profile such as S-Log3. It captures a wider dynamic range, which gives you a huge amount more freedom and creativity in defining the colour of your video afterwards.

See also our other quick guides