Introduction

This rig is built around the Sony a7 IV, a full‑frame hybrid camera designed for creators who need professional‑level photo and video performance in a flexible, adaptable package. The accessories chosen here expand its imaging capability, lighting control, power reliability, and overall handling, creating a system suitable for portraiture, events, product work, documentary shooting, and general commercial production.

Each component in this build supports the camera’s high‑resolution sensor, oversampled 4K recording modes, and advanced autofocus system—enhancing optical performance, lighting accuracy, operational stability, and storage endurance. Together, these tools form a complete, efficient workflow from capture to transport, enabling dependable performance in both controlled studio environments and dynamic on‑location scenarios.

This rig is built around the Sony a7 IV which particularly excels in photography while also taking great video. It's a full-frame camera with a 33 megapixel sensor and can capture 4K video at 60 frames-per-second or full HD at 120 frames-per-second.

Each component in this build supports professional‑level photography whether you're shooting portraits, sports, events, weddings, and more.

1. Sony a7 IV

The Sony a7 IV is the central component of this rig. It uses a full‑frame sensor that allows for strong low‑light performance and a wide dynamic range, helping preserve detail in both bright and dark areas. The camera records 4K using oversampling from a higher‑resolution sensor, increasing fine‑detail rendering and giving more flexibility for reframing or cropping in post‑production.

The a7 IV also features high‑bitrate codecs that require fast memory cards for reliable recording. Its phase‑detection autofocus system analyzes depth by comparing signals across numerous AF points, enabling accurate subject tracking with minimal focus hunting. The camera outputs HDMI for external monitoring and includes advanced stabilization modes that assist with handheld work.

2. Sony FE 24–70mm f/2.8 GM II Lens

This zoom lens covers a 24–70mm focal length range allowing for wide framing at the short end and tight, portrait‑friendly framing at the long end, making it a versatile all‑purpose lens.

The constant f/2.8 aperture means the lens maintains the same maximum light‑gathering capability throughout the zoom range. This prevents exposure changes when zooming and provides a shallow depth of field for isolating subjects. The lens uses advanced optical elements to maintain high sharpness and contrast while reducing flare and chromatic aberration.

Its fast autofocus motors pair well with the a7 IV’s focusing system, ensuring accurate performance during stills and video work. This lens offers versatile focal coverage with strong optical performance and consistent low‑light capability.

3. Tamron 90mm f/2.8 Di III VXD Macro Lens (Sony E)

This macro lens is designed for close‑up photography, allowing subjects to be captured at high magnification ratios with excellent sharpness. At 90mm, the focal length provides a narrow field of view, making it ideal for product details, textures, nature close‑ups, and compressed portrait perspectives.

The f/2.8 aperture allows strong light intake while maintaining a deep focal plane for macro accuracy. The VXD focusing system uses linear motors for fast, quiet autofocus that performs well during both still and video capture. Optical construction minimizes distortion and maintains clarity across the frame.

4. Tiffen 82mm UV Protector Filter

This UV filter reduces ultraviolet light before it reaches the lens and also provides physical protection from dust, scratches, moisture, and accidental impacts. The slim design reduces the risk of vignetting on wide‑angle lenses.

5. Lexar 256GB Professional 1667x UHS‑II SDXC Memory Card

This SDXC card provides 256GB of storage with UHS‑II architecture, which uses a second row of pins to increase communication speed. Faster write performance supports high‑bitrate 4K and slow‑motion recording. Faster read speeds reduce transfer time when offloading footage to a computer.

6. Sony NP‑FZ100 Rechargeable Lithium‑Ion Battery (2280mAh)

The NP‑FZ100 offers long‑lasting power with a high 2280mAh capacity. It's compact enough to carry spares without adding too much bulk, making it a practical choice for mobile or handheld shooting.

7. SmallRig NP‑FZ100 Camera Battery Charger

This dedicated charger allows fast charging of NP‑FZ100 batteries and includes LED indicators for charge status. It ensures batteries can be cycled quickly during long shoots and keeps the rig powered without relying on USB‑only charging through the camera.

8. Godox AD200Pro TTL Pocket Flash

This flash unit outputs significantly more power than standard on‑camera flashes while maintaining a compact form factor. The AD200Pro supports TTL (through‑the‑lens) metering, which allows automatic flash exposure calculations based on the camera’s sensor.

It features interchangeable flash heads, stable color‑temperature output, and fast recycling times. High power output makes it suitable for outdoor lighting, portrait setups, or controlled studio environments. Built‑in 2.4GHz wireless capability allows remote triggering.

9. Godox X3‑S Touchscreen TTL Wireless Flash Trigger (Sony)

This trigger communicates with compatible Godox flashes using a 2.4GHz wireless system. It attaches to the camera’s hot shoe and allows remote control of flash power, mode, and groups. It also supports TTL and high‑speed sync (HSS), enabling flash use at faster shutter speeds for bright‑environment control. The touchscreen interface provides quick access to adjustments.

10. SmallRig Baseplate for Sony a7R V and a7 IV (Version 2)

This baseplate secures the camera and provides standardized mounting points such as 1/4"-20 threads, 3/8"-16 threads, and Arca‑compatible interfaces. It improves stability when attaching accessories or mounting the rig onto tripods, gimbals, or shoulder rigs.

The plate maintains access to the battery compartment and ports while adding structural rigidity. Integrated anti‑twist designs prevent the camera from shifting during operation.

11. PGYTECH OneMo Lite Backpack (Twilight Black, 22L)

This backpack provides padded compartments for safely storing the camera, lenses, filters, monitor, cage components, batteries, and accessories. Adjustable internal dividers allow custom organization.

It offers durable materials, weather resistance, and comfortable straps, making it suitable for travel, location work, and everyday transport of the full rig.

Credit

Thanks to Logan Glover (rigdesigner.com/loganglover) for his contributions to this guide!