Some tools I’ve found useful

Many were bought used, so useful for the money.

Dewalt 20V MAX 1/2 inch cordless impact wrench (DCF891B)

Dewalt 20v MAX angle grinder (DCG413B)

Version 1.0.0

Dewalt DCS573B, 20V MAX 7 1/4 in. brushless circular saw

Dewalt rotary saw (DW660)

Version 1.0.0

BOSCH GLM165-22 165 Ft Blaze Laser Distance Measure

MiLESEEY 330Ft Laser Distance Meter

Version 1.0.0

Etekcity Smart Scale for Body Weight

Version 1.0.0

77L Glass Measuring Cup with Handle, [Double-Sided Measuring Scale, V-Shaped Spout, Insulated handle], High Borosilicate Glass Measuring Cup with Three Scales (OZ, Cup, ML) for Liquid (2 Cup)

ThermoPro TP829 1000ft Wireless Meat Thermometer Digital for Grilling and Smoking, 4 Meat Probes

Version 1.0.0

California Trip 2024 – I

I took what was supposed to be a solo trip around the Sierras south of San Francisco on January 18, 2024.

It ended not being so solo, but was a better trip for it.

My trip went hit the following places –

  • Started in the East Bay, just outside San Francisco.
  • Lake Tahoe
  • Yosemite
  • Carrizo Plain National Monument
  • Santa Barbara
  • Los Angeles
  • San Diego
  • Joshua Tree National Park
  • Mojave National Preserve
  • Death Valley National Park
  • Mt. Whitney
  • Bristlecone Pine Ancient Forest
  • Back home

Sigma 35mm f/1.4 DG DN Art Lens

For when you’re doing groups and street, but want it fast.

This focal length is pretty common, maybe second only to 50mm. Easily the most useful prime for most people’s street photography and group photos. Honestly, if you already have a reasonably fast zoom, this doesn’t give you much benefit.

If you don’t know why you need f/1.4, don’t buy this. It’s not a small or light lens by any means. Even if you can articulate why you need it, ask yourself if Sony’s E 35mm f/1.8 OSS version, which costs half as much, is less than half the size and weight, and comes with image stabilization will do the job. Unless you’re just reading specs, it likely will.

If you do need the extra quality and speed, well then, enjoy it.

Sony Alpha a7R IV Mirrorless Digital Camera

For when you just can’t get enough resolution.

At 61 megapixel, this is quite impressive, especially if you wish to have really large prints, or aggressively crop. As this is the R(esolution) model, don’t expect top of the line 4k60 10bit video. While it can do 4k30 8bit, this is strictly aimed at high resolution.

There are a million reviews out there, so I won’t go into it, other than to say this is a great camera to get, especially since the a7R V was just announced yesterday.

Tamron 28-200mm f/2.8-5.6 Di III RXD Lens (Sony E)

The 75% Lens

This is by far my most useful lens outside. The focal range covers small landscapes, street shots, group shots, body shots, head shots, and really flattened out head shots. Will you get amazing soft backgrounds? No, but neither does it cost $4k.

IMO, once you have a reason to buy your first lens after the 50mm, get this. Easily the most affordable for the range and quality. You can absolutely own just this lens and impress 99% of people. With the exception of ultra wide-angle, macro, and super far distance objects, most everything else is just style.

If you’re traveling on vacation, for most people, this is the only lens you need. If you can’t articulate why you need something else, and why it’s compelling, this will do the job.

Sony FE 50mm f/1.8 Lens

Small, Fast, & Light

If I need a fast lens or the camera system to be small and light, I’ll use the 50mm. It’s by far the cheapest, smallest and at f/1.8, close to the fastest. Good all-around lens, master of none, but it will get you the shot when you otherwise wouldn’t have anything. Easily the best bang for the buck.