Upgraded My Gear: From Sony A7 I to the A7IV — Here’s Why It’s a Game-Changer
After years of shooting with the Sony A7 I, I finally made the leap to the Sony A7IV — and let me tell you, it’s a total game-changer.
In my latest video, I walk you through why I upgraded, what improvements made the biggest difference, and how this gear is going to elevate both my photography and video work. Whether you’re a fellow photographer, filmmaker, or just curious about the tools behind the scenes, this is one you won’t want to miss.
Why I Upgraded
The A7 I has been a reliable workhorse for years, but it was time to move forward. Technology has come a long way since that first-gen mirrorless body. What really pushed me to upgrade was the vastly improved autofocus, and the ability to shoot in clean, detailed 4K video.
These features aren’t just nice to have — they’re essential for keeping up with the demands of fast-paced shoots, where moments are fleeting and precision matters. Whether I’m photographing headshots on location or filming interviews, I can now rely on my camera to track focus and capture crystal-clear visuals.
The Power of the 24-105mm G Lens
The Sony 24-105mm f/4 G OSS lens is the perfect companion to the A7IV. Its sharpness, range, and built-in image stabilization make it incredibly versatile — especially for event coverage, documentary-style interviews, and run-and-gun filmmaking.
I love not having to change lenses constantly. Being able to zoom from wide to tight without sacrificing quality makes my workflow faster, and that makes a huge difference when I’m on the clock at an event or in a tight production schedule.
A Special Project with Dan Greaney
One of the first projects I shot with my new gear was a video interview featuring Dan Greaney, a long-time writer for The Simpsons. While I can’t reveal the subject of the interview (it hasn’t been released yet), I can say it was a real honor to work with someone whose writing has shaped one of the most iconic shows in television history.
Collaborating with creatives at the top of their field is always inspiring — and even more meaningful when they choose me to help bring their story to life. From setting up the shot to rolling the last frame, I felt confident in what I was capturing thanks to the Sony A7IV and the 24-105mm lens.
I bought the camera and lens used, but they performed like a dream — sharp, stable, and just plain cinematic. This shoot really let me stretch the legs of my new setup and confirmed that the upgrade was more than worth it.
Gear Mentioned:
Sony A7IV
Sony 24-105mm f/4 G OSS lens
Need Professional Photos or Video in LA or OC?
If you’re looking for professional headshots, event photography, or high-quality 4K video production, I’d love to work with you. I have offices in Santa Monica, Venice, and Culver City, and I travel throughout Los Angeles and Orange County.
It’s one of the most common things I hear from professionals before a headshot session: “I’ve just never liked how I look in photos.”
And it doesn’t matter what industry they’re in—tech, law, finance, creative fields—the sentiment is the same. Some people have never had a professional headshot. Others simply feel uncomfortable in front of the camera. Some are shy, self-critical, or unsure of how to pose. I get it. Being photographed can feel awkward or even vulnerable.
But here’s the truth: It’s my job to make you feel confident, comfortable, and at ease—so you actually love how you look in the final images.
A Real-Life Example: A Women’s Law Association
I remember photographing headshots for a women’s law association at Pepperdine University. Some of the women stepped in front of the camera with total confidence—they loved it! Others were a bit more reserved, hesitant, or unsure of how they’d look. But by the end of the session, something changed.
Through gentle direction, positive encouragement, and taking the time to make each person feel at ease, every participant walked away with polished, professional headshots they were proud of. Even those who started out nervous saw how great they looked. That transformation—seeing someone shift from doubt to confidence—is the most rewarding part of my job.
What to Expect from a Headshot Session
As a professional headshot photographer, I do more than just press the shutter. I create an experience that’s:
Low-stress: No rush, no pressure—just a relaxed pace and a calm environment.
Collaborative: We’ll work together to find your best angles, expressions, and overall look.
Comfortable: I guide you through the session so you’re never left wondering what to do.
Fun (yes, fun!): Most clients tell me afterward, “That was way easier than I expected.”
You don’t need to be photogenic or experienced in front of the camera. You just need someone who knows how to bring out your best.
If You’re Hesitating, I Get It
If you’ve been putting off new headshots because you’re worried you won’t like the way you look—let’s talk. I’ll take the time to understand your concerns, guide you through the session, and make sure you’re thrilled with the results.
I help professionals look like their best selves: confident, approachable, and ready to take on the next big opportunity.
Ready to Book?
I photograph headshots throughout the Los Angeles area, with offices in Venice, Santa Monica, and Culver City. I also travel regularly for on-location company headshot events.
Call or text 323-493-2552 to book your session. Let’s create something great together.
Today marks 23 years since I packed up my life in Colorado and drove west to chase a dream. Fresh out of college, I moved to Los Angeles with the goal of working in the entertainment industry—and what an incredible journey it’s been.
From Extra to the Academy Awards
In my early years in LA, I dove into every opportunity I could find. I worked as a production assistant, an assistant, a coordinator, and even spent time on set as a background extra. (Fun fact: You can spot me in the 13 Going on 30“Thriller” scene—Judy Greer hands me her drink before heading to the dance floor. Yes, really!)
One of the most surreal highlights of my entertainment career was working the Academy Awards for ABC. The energy, the production scale, the sheer star power—it was unforgettable. The photo I’ve included is from the after-party that night, and it still reminds me of how lucky I was to be part of that world.
Finding My Passion in Photography
Roughly a decade ago, I discovered something unexpected: my true passion was behind the camera. I began my journey as a professional photographer and gradually carved out my niche in headshot photography.
LA, with all its creative energy and constant evolution, turned out to be the perfect place for this new chapter. It’s a city that invites reinvention—if you’re open to growth, willing to pivot, and ready to keep showing up, doors will open.
Looking Ahead—and Giving Back
Now, as a headshot photographer based in Los Angeles, I get to help others put their best face forward—whether they’re actors, business professionals, or fellow creatives just beginning their journey. There’s something rewarding about helping people feel confident and seen.
If you’re in LA and need a fresh headshot — give me a call at 323-493-2552 to schedule a photography session.
Thanks for being part of the ride. Here’s to what’s next.
