Starting Out as a DigiOp: The Ideal First Setup!
Starting Out as a DigiOp: The Right Tools for the Job
As a DigiOp, you need equipment that works—stuff you can rely on day in and day out. When I started out in this role, I went for a high-end setup, investing in a really nice, expensive plate and a peli case to carry everything. Back then, I thought premium gear was the only way to go. But looking back now? I could’ve bought any brand of plate. As long as it gets the job done, that’s all that really matters.
With experience under my belt, I’ve come to realize that gear doesn’t have to break the bank to be effective. If I were starting out as a DigiOp today, I’d be a bit smarter with my choices. And that’s what I want to share with you: a breakdown of the setup I’d recommend to anyone getting started in this line of work—or even to photographers who just need a reliable place to put their laptop during a shoot.
Essential Gear for a DigiOp or Photographer
Here’s what you’ll need:
1. A Plate or Shelf
The plate is your workstation—the foundation of your setup. Here are a few solid options, from budget-friendly to high-end:
• Proaim LT Universal Laptop Workstation – A good universal option that works well for tethered shooting.
• Mule Studio Shelf – Durable and sturdy, great for studio work.
• DigiSystem DigiPlate Pro – This one’s a professional-grade plate for those who want to go all out.
• DigiSystem DigiPlate Lite – A lighter version for a more mobile workflow.
2. A Laptop
The laptop is your command center. My advice? Get the best you can afford. Look for something with a big screen—it makes all the difference when editing or reviewing shots. And don’t settle for less than 2TB of internal storage. The faster the machine, the smoother your workflow will be. Trust me, you’ll thank yourself when you’re working with massive files under tight deadlines.
3. Cables, Cables, Cables
Never underestimate the importance of good cables. Cheap ones break or cause connectivity issues at the worst moments. These are a few trusted brands:
• Area51
Grab a couple of spares—you never know when you’ll need them.
4. External Drive
Backing up your files is a non-negotiable. My go-to is the Samsung SSD T7 Shield. Fast, reliable, and built for on-the-go use. It’s rugged and can handle the bumps and knocks that come with location shoots.
5. Tether Lead Management
To prevent your cables from accidentally getting yanked out of your laptop during a shoot, a TetherBlock or something similar is essential. There’s also Photofortress, another solid brand for cable management.
6. A Stand
Last but not least, you’ll need something to hold everything together—a sturdy stand. Depending on your needs, there are two main options:
• Lowboy Roller – Ideal for those working in a studio.
• Tripod – More portable for location work.
Conclusion: Keep It Simple, Keep It Reliable
Starting out as a DigiOp doesn’t have to be complicated. You just need reliable tools that work. Whether you’re handling a full studio setup or just need a stable place for your laptop, the key is efficiency and simplicity. With the right gear, you’ll be able to focus on what truly matters—getting the shot.