The Gear I Use for Wildlife Filmmaking
Hey everyone, welcome to this episode of Filming The Wild! Today, I’m diving into the gear I use when I’m out in the field filming wildlife. This has been a highly requested topic, so I’m finally breaking down my setup and why I use what I use.
If you are interested in getting the most out of your wildlife filmmaking experience, be sure to check out my gear and equipment page. I’ve carefully selected the best products, so you can create your own wildlife filmmaking set as well. As an affiliate on Amazon and Sigma, I do receive a small commission on any sales, which helps me continue creating films about wildlife and behind the scenes moments from my adventures Filming the Wild.
My Camera Setup
Over the years, my gear has evolved quite a bit. I used to shoot on the Sony A7S III, which is actually recording this video right now. However, earlier this year in 2024, I upgraded to the Sony FX6, which has been a game-changer for my work.
The FX6 offers nearly the same image quality as the A7S III but comes with additional features that I find invaluable for wildlife filmmaking. I’ll get into those specifics in a bit, but here’s my current camera setup:
Camera: Sony FX6
Lens: Sigma 60-600mm (EF mount, adapted to Sony E-mount with the Sigma MC-11 adapter)
Monitor/Recorder: Atomos Ninja (original model)
Battery System: Hypercore Neo 9 (Gold Mount)
Tripod System: Sachtler Flowtech 75 with a fluid head
Accessories: Condor Blue base plate, rod system, and lens support
Why the Sony FX6?
The primary reason I switched to the FX6 from the A7S III is a feature called cache recording (also known as pre-roll). This is essential for wildlife filmmaking because it allows you to capture action after it happens. Here’s how it works:
The camera continuously records to a cache but doesn’t write to the memory card until you press record.
When you hit record, it saves the previous 5-30 seconds of footage.
This is perfect for unpredictable wildlife moments, such as birds taking flight.
With the A7S III, I had to roll for minutes—sometimes 20 minutes—just to capture a moment that might not happen. The FX6’s cache recording saves time, memory space, and frustration.
Another key advantage is the built-in electronic ND filters that provide smooth, variable control over exposure. Unlike traditional ND filters that have hard stops, the FX6 allows for seamless exposure changes, which is crucial in constantly shifting light conditions.
My Lens Choice: Sigma 60-600mm
For wildlife filmmaking, a versatile zoom lens is a must. The Sigma 60-600mm allows me to capture a wide range of shots, from close-ups to scenic wide shots, all without changing lenses. While I use the EF mount version with an adapter, Sigma also makes a native Sony E-mount version (60-600mm DG DN), which I highly recommend.
This lens works exceptionally well in the field because:
It offers true 60-600mm focal length on a full-frame sensor.
It covers the ideal focal range for wildlife (200-600mm is the sweet spot).
It allows for quick reframing from a tight subject shot to a wider environmental scene.
Stability & Support: Tripod & Accessories
Filming wildlife requires a solid tripod with a fluid head for smooth pans and tilts. I use the Sachtler Flowtech 75, which is an excellent system because:
It has quick-deploy legs that save time in the field.
The fluid head allows for smooth camera movement.
It has a 75mm bowl mount, making it sturdy and reliable.
I also use a Condor Blue base plate and rod system to properly balance my camera on the tripod. This helps counterbalance the weight of the long telephoto lens, making movements more fluid and stable.
Powering My Setup
For long shooting sessions, I rely on external batteries. The Hypercore Neo 9 is my go-to because:
It powers both my camera and my Atomos Ninja monitor.
It provides up to 3 hours of continuous shooting.
I carry two of these, giving me around 5-6 hours of total runtime.
Final Thoughts
This setup allows me to adapt quickly to changing conditions while maintaining high-quality footage. Whether it’s the cache recording, built-in ND filters, or the versatility of the Sigma 60-600mm lens, every piece of gear plays an essential role in my workflow.
If you’re getting into wildlife filmmaking or looking to upgrade your setup, I highly recommend investing in gear that helps you capture unpredictable moments effortlessly. Let me know in the comments what gear you use or if you have any questions about my setup!
See you in the next episode of Filming The Wild!
— Alan Lacy
