Karen Alsop
Photographic Digital Artist
(Specialising in Portrait Art)
Capture:
- CAMERA: Nikon Z6 camera: The Nikon Z6 is the perfect dual-use camera. It's features and quality for Video ensure high-end production both for filming and also now for webcasting! I also use the Z6 for event photography and connect to SnapBridge to send event images directly to the organisers as they happen.
- CAMERA: Nikon Z7 camera: The Nikon Z7 is my camera of choice for my photographic art, capturing high resolution, exceptional quality imagery. It works in partnership with my Z6 too when filming in a multi-cam environment.
- LENS: 35mm 1.8 Z lens: The perfect all-rounder, wide aperture, prime.
- LENS: 24-70mm 2.8 Z lens: I think the 24-70 2.8 is the go-to lens for most photographers and it's on my Z7 90% off the time. The detail is incredible!
Post Production:
- MONITOR: EIZO ColorEdge CG319X: I couldn't see some of the highlights and shadow detail on my iMac screen even though they were visible in my prints. So I have my EIZO connected to my iMac, to make more informed creative decisions before moving on to print.
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DRAWING TABLET: WACOM Cintiq 16, Wacom Mobile Studio Pro: I use the Wacom Cintiq as a desktop connected tablet that can also be set up as a third monitor when streaming. I love my Wacom Mobile Studio Pro portable computer/tablet. When travelling I use it on the plane, in presentations, in bed. It's powerful and portable and perfect for Photoshop work. I can also connect it directly to my EIZO.
- LIGHTING: Godox light: FL 200 x 2 LED: The new Godox lights are dual-use and operate both as continuous LED lights and also studio strobes. Due to my mixed use of video and photography and also photographing sensitive animals, I love being able to leave the set up the same, with the same modifiers and locations, but just switch the function of the lights to suit.
- PRINTER: EPSON SureColor P800 & EPSON P8070 44inch: I love printing in house, going from screen to print, and getting immediate results in large format for myself and my clients has changed my world. I can print on fine art Canson Infinity paper for an exhibition and fulfill customer orders, even stretching my own canvas. I don't think I could live without my Epson printer now in my business. That finished product, that print, is the reward for 50+ hours in Photoshop. It's not finished until it's printed.
- SOFTWARE: Adobe Lightroom, Photoshop
- COMPUTERS: iMac Pro: My desktop setup requires a high-end computer with a lot of grunt for heavy photoshop work.
- TETHERING: Air Direct Tether Tool, Tether Boost, Tether Kit: The Air Direct is a very clever device that makes the computer or mobile think it's connected directly via USB but it's actually operating over wifi. I can be wire-free in the studio both shooting stills and also broadcasting video. The tether boost is essential for regulating the USB connections from camera to computer and ensuring continuous connection.
- CABLES: USB-C to USB-C Tether Pro Cable/USB-A to USB-C Tether Pro Cable: These high-quality cables ensure my camera stays connected even at longer distances
- AUDIO: Hn1 Zoom Recorder: I use the recorder out on location to capture audio but this device also enables me to connect any mic, including the Rode Wireless Go to my computer when I'm recording direct or live streaming. | Rode Go Wireless microphones: These little mics are perfect lapels without the need for all the cords. They clip on and clip off easily and charge via USB Type-C
- TRIPOD: Manfrotto: A solid tripod for use in the studio with many options for different heads and attachments. | Tripod Roller: I can wheel my camera around on the tripod within the studio.