NickOnken GearArsenal (PDF)

GEAR ARSENAL

INTRODUCTION
Introduction
Many people often ask what type of gear I use so I decided to make this insider peek into the behind the scenes of
my gear arsenal. At the end of the day, it’s more about what you put into the frame than the technology. If you
know what you’re doing, you can make amazing photos with a basic point and shoot camera, or iPhone, or Canon
Rebel, or a 1920’s film camera. Gear is the baseline and the entry. Sure, having good gear helps which is why I’ve
outlined here what I use.
This isn’t THE only guide for photographers, but it’s equipment that I use to portray the lens of which I see the
world. Take it, find things you like and apply them to your own arsenal. It comes down to your own preferences
and likes. Keep in mind, I don’t go into extreme geekville of everything, just a very simple what it is and what I
use it for. If you want the super deep details, there’s a world of internets to do the research, but at the very least
it’s a start for you.
I also included the gear I use for my podcast, which has become a big part of my brand and a fun passion project.
Podcasting has been a way to bring another dimension to my 2 dimensional art. Inspiring conversations are a
passion of mine, and I love sharing them with the masses and bringing that inspiration to other people. I love
interviewing successful creative entrepreneurs on how they make a living with their art and how they got there,
as I'm sure other people aspiring to those careers want to hear too. If you haven’t had a listen, you can check it
out here: shoptalkradio.com
Lastly, if you enjoy this free book or learn something from it, would you mind helping me spread the word? Tell
your friends, family, and followers to go download it at nickonken.me/free. That would be much appreciated. If I
were with you in person right now, I’d give you a big high five.

www.nickonken.com

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BIOGRAPHY

Biography
Nick Onken is a photographer, podcast
host, and creative entrepreneur devoted
to inspiring the world to create their
moments and create their life. A former
graphic designer hailing from the soggy
city of Seattle, now residing in the
concrete jungle of New York, Nick has
captured personalities such as Justin
Bieber, Usher, and Jessica Alba. He has
photographed print campaigns for
international brands such as Nike, Coca
Cola and Adidas and his work has been
published in magazines such as Conde
Nast Traveler, Cosmopolitan, and Marie
Claire. On his podcast, he’s interviewed
celebrities such as Usher, Scooter Braun,
and others. He photographs for the
charity, Pencils of Promise, as he
believes that education is the root
problem solver of our world.

www.nickonken.com

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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Cameras
Lenses
Film
Memory Cards
Lighting
Studio
Digi Tech - On Location
Workspace Computing
Storage
Bags
Podcasting
Sound Systems
Photo Software & Apps
Tech Software & Apps
Productivity Apps
Social Media
Blogging
Recommended Reading
Favorite Blogs & Podcasts
www.nickonken.com

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CAMERAS

Canon 1DX

Buy It Here

This is now my new primary camera I use for
commercial and editorial jobs. It shoots 12 frames
per second, has a 30 frame RAW buffer, and the
high ISO options are the key features why I use it.

www.nickonken.com

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CAMERAS

Canon 6D

Buy It Here

We use this camera for behind the scenes
video and snaps on photo shoots, and I’ll
also use it when I travel and want a light
camera to take around if I'm not set out
with the purpose of taking pictures.

www.nickonken.com

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CAMERAS

Canon 1DS Mark III
This camera used to be my primary commercial
camera until I replaced it with the 1Dx. Now I use
it when I'm shooting travel work with the sole
purpose of shooting. The 9 point auto focus circle
selection is quick on the draw to change when I
see things I need to shoot fast. Being able to catch
the moments is essential in these situations.

www.nickonken.com

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CAMERAS

Canon G15

Buy It Here

Great for evening party shots with the rear
shutter sync. You can trail the ambient light
with the pop of the flash. It’s light and easy to
carry around.

www.nickonken.com

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CAMERAS

Hasselblad 503CW
The depth of this camera and the texture of film is amazing for
portraits. I typically shoot this camera on my own personal
shoots.

www.nickonken.com

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