My Desk and Camera Rig Setup

As a content creator, I need excellent-quality videos and images. I don't want to buy stock footage and photos, as they get expensive quickly and are not original. After about two years of hesitating, I finally decided on a camera.

Gaming Workstation Setup

My gaming workstation setup comprises several items and accessories, the main three being my small form factor (SFF) gaming computer, desk, and chair.

The Desk: SmartDesk 2

According to the manufacturer (Autonomous), they designed the "SmartDesk 2" for all body types. This desk offers precise height adjustment with memory settings to save your ideal sit-to-stand positions.

The Chair: Secretlab OMEGA 2020 SoftWeave - Black3

I work and play while sitting on the Secretlab OMEGA 2020 SoftWeave - Black3 when not standing. This chair offers a stylish ergonomic design and a cozy sitting experience with a snug-fit seat base.

The Camera Setup: Sony Alpha 7S III

The Sony Alpha 7S III is a full-frame interchangeable lens camera that offers ten in-camera customizable Creative Looks for stills and movies, all in a compact size. With optimized video, optimized sensitivity, and optimized speed, the Sony a7S III raises the bar for what a full-frame mirrorless camera can do.

Introducing the Alpha 7S III – a new milestone in sensitivity, speed and image supremacy. Featuring an all-new 12.1MP backside illuminated full-frame sensor with twice the readout speed for ultra-clean low-light images up to ISO 409,600, 15+ stops dynamic range and 3x reduction in rolling shutter, plus Sony’s acclaimed fast hybrid autofocus with 759 phase detection AF points. A new BIONZ XR processing engine deliver 8x more processing power for up to 120p 4K 10-bit 4:2:2 and full pixel readout in all recording modes. -Sony product description

I waited almost two years before purchasing the Sony Alpha 7S III. The two main reasons for not buying sooner were availability and price. Most of the time, when I look for this camera, it is out of stock. And if I did find one, it would be well above the MSRP—classic supply and demand.

Since I could not find one online, I searched eBay and Facebook Marketplace. I found a great used camera but ultimately bought a brand-new one. I searched Amazon Renewed for a discounted camera since I have always been looking for great deals on Amazon Renewed. On December 12, 2022, I managed to snag a refurbished one for $2,799.95. With taxes, I paid $3,030.95. I saved $613.05, or 17% of the original price of $3,498.00. Not bad. If you check now, it's under $3K!

The Lens

I am not rich, but I wish I were. Knowing that lenses are the most expensive part of photography and videography, I wanted a versatile lens mainly for vistas. The Sony FE 16-35mm F2.8 GM Wide-Angle Zoom Lens (SEL1635GM) is a staple for landscape photographers worldwide. It's wide enough to capture incredible epic scenes and expansive views—it's perfect!

The lens has these features:

• Designed to achieve 50 Line pairs/mm resolving power
• Two XA (extreme aspherical) elements w/ high surface precision. Minimum focus distance - 0.28 m (0.92 ft). Maximum Magnification ratio (x)- 0.19
• Constant F2.8 max aperture maintains exposure and Depth of field. Hood Type: Petal shape, bayonet type; APERTURE BLADES: 11
• Uncompromising G Master design for smooth bokeh and high resolution. The angle of View (35 mm): 107°–63°
• In-the-box: hood, lens front cap, lens rear cap, case, Mount: Sony E-mount

What's my next lens? Sony E-mount FE 24mm F1.4 GM Full Frame Wide-angle Prime Lens (SEL24F14GM). I need an excellent general-purpose lens, and I think the FE 24mm F1.4 GM is perfect for that role since it's a prime lens with a fast and sharp focus.

I am also considering purchasing the Tamron 17-28mm f/2.8 Di III RXD for Sony Mirrorless Full. I hear it is an excellent lens for vlogging.

The Cage: SmallRig 2999 Camera Cage

I am protecting my investment using the SmallRig Camera Cage 2999 for Sony A7SIII. It fits like a glove and will protect my camera in case of a mishap!

The Bag: Manfrotto Advanced Camera and Laptop Backpack Tri M

I like this Manfrotto camera backpack because it can be used in three ways. Depending on your preferences, you can use it as a sling bag, a standard backpack, or even in the ''X" position.

This bag design bag allows you to easily hold a DSLR or CSC with an attached 24-70/2.8, three lenses, and a flash. With the bag in ''X'' or sling mode, you can easily swing it to one side for easy access to your gear during those all-important moments on a shoot. The backpack has two compartments. The bottom half is dedicated to your photography gear and contains additional padding for security, while the top is for personal items. The bag has a dedicated pocket for media cards and a compartment where you can store a 10'' tablet. Two additional external zippered pockets provide a means by which you can bring some personal items along on a shoot, and the clever frontal tripod straps allow for a small tripod to be attached to the bag. The bag also includes a rain protector for those shooting in inclement weather.

Final Words

My gaming workstation and camera rig setup are a work in progress. Therefore, I will update this article whenever I add a new item or accessory. Thank you!