Sony Artisan Chris Orwig (@chrisorwig) is a modern-day professional photographer and story teller. He is most known for portraiture, but by necessity and his creative restlessness, his work goes far beyond those confines, He explains, “In the modern age, it isn't enough to offer only one thing. And don't get me wrong, I don't consider myself a content creator (I find the term too vague). Instead, I am a storyteller hired to listen deeply, connect authentically, and capture compelling stories about people and brands.” This storytelling often involves photographing and filming people and brands in a way that aligns with their unique narratives and messages and to do that, Orwig has built a large and carefully curated quiver of Sony Alpha cameras and Sony lenses to make sure his imagery hits the bullseye. We connected with Orwig to learn more about his gear and how he uses it in his varied work.
Product Preview – In This Article You'll Find:
–Sony Alpha 7R V
–Sony Alpha 1
–Sony Alpha 7C
–Sony 85mm f/1.4 G Master
–Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II
–Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G Master
–Sony 50mm f/1.2 G Master
–Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master
–Sony 35mm f/1.4 G Master
–Sony 35mm f/1.8
–Sony 24mm f/2.8 G
–Sony 50mm f/2.5 G
–Sony UWP-D21 Wireless Microphone
–Sony ECM-B1M Shotgun Microphone
–Sony ECM-B10 Shotgun Microphone
–Sony TOUGH Memory Cards
In the modern era of visual storytelling, the ability to capture both stills and video is crucial, and having the right gear ensures that I can do this efficiently, effectively, and in a way that is light-footed. My favorite jobs are those when I'm barefoot in the sand. For example, my last gig in Costa Rica, where I worked for a billionaire, captured footage and stills from the beach, boats, jet skis, helicopters, ATVs, the ocean, and underwater. High-quality cameras, lenses, and accessories enable me to produce visually stunning images and videos that resonate with the client and, more importantly, the intended audience. Realizing this, I have had to build out and develop my kit beyond what I used to use. The versatility of the kit shown here allows me to be nimble and adapt quickly to different shooting conditions, whether working in the Ghirardelli chocolate factory or at a secluded compound in Costa Rica.
As we all know, having the right tools at my disposal is indispensable when it comes to capturing the intricate details of a product, the emotions of a portrait, or the dynamic energy of a brand. Okay, so enough about the kind of work that I do. What's in the bag?
Cameras
(2) Sony Alpha 7R V: These are my go-to cameras for still images. I absolutely love the dynamic range, autofocus, high resolution, and image quality. It's fair to say that I have created the best images of my life with these cameras. Why not two of the same camera?
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7R V. Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/8000-sec., f/2.8, ISO 400
Sony Alpha 1: I use this camera when I need to capture high-speed action stills or video. When I am on a job that requires both stills and video, my Alpha 1 is set for video, and my Sony Alpha 7R V is set for stills.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 1. Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/1600-sec., f/2.8, ISO 500
Sony Alpha 7C: I have created the highest-profitable image with this camera. I love the size, image quality, and look and feel. This camera puts people at ease and is so easy to use that it adds a degree of fun to the image-making process. While this camera can shoot video, I only use it for stills when I want a lightweight, compact setup.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7C.
Lenses
Sony 85mm f/1.4 G Master: The ultimate portrait lens and my all-time favorite lens.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 85mm f/1.4 G Master. 1/1600-sec., f/4.5, ISO 400
Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II: The workhorse that allows me to do everything from high-end commercial work to photographing a family at the beach.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7R V. Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 G Master II. 1/125-sec., f/18, ISO 500
Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G Master: The perfect choice when I am in a tight situation and need to tell a story where the location/setting/etc. really matters. I love being able to go super wide (at least for me) and shoot at 16, or for a more normal look, go to 35. The versatility of this lens is insanely awesome.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 16-35mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/80-sec., f/2.8, ISO 160
Sony 50mm f/1.2 G Master: This lens creates a truly authentic and natural look. The image quality is off the charts, and it helps me create that authentic vibe my clients love with the beautiful shallow depth of field look this lens creates.
Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master: When I need more reach or want to compress the scene, this is my go-to. The 70-200mm allows you to create a magical, special view of the world.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7R IV. Sony 70-200mm f/2.8 G Master. 1/500-sec., f/4.5, ISO 400
Sony 35mm f/1.4 G Master: I use this lens exclusively when I shoot video. The look it creates is absolutely dreamy. It's small, lightweight, and one of the all-time best lenses that I own.
The Lightweight Trio – Sony 35mm f/1.8, Sony 24mm f/2.8 G, and Sony 50mm f/2.5 G: When shooting with the Sony Alpha 7C, I love using these three lightweight lenses. These lenses are so small and light and create such beautiful images that they allow me to work in a really nimble and simple way.
Photo by Chris Orwig. Sony Alpha 7C. Sony 50mm f/2.5 G. 1/2000-sec., f/2.5, ISO 125
Accessories
Sony UWP-D21 Wireless Microphone: A wireless lav microphone that works flawlessly.
Sony ECM-B1M and Sony ECM-B10 (not shown): I can't imagine life without these mics. They're so easy to use and of great quality.
Sony TOUGH Memory Cards: I switched to these a few years ago and have been so impressed by them.
Others: Extra batteries, a Peak Design Travel Tripod (Carbon Fiber and aluminum), Peak Design Camera Straps, a DJI Mini Ronin Gimbal, and a mini drone.
Ultimately, all of this gear has been selected because of its ability to support and elevate my role as a storyteller. It helps me authentically connect with my subjects and create compelling visual narratives that captivate and inspire. Perhaps even more importantly, this kit has helped me evolve from being strictly a portrait photographer to a photographer and filmmaker who is able to work in so many new ways.
See more of Sony Artisan Chris Orwig’s work on his Alpha Universe Profile and on Instagram @chrisorwig.
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