“As a natural world photographer, I specialize in landscape and wildlife photography capturing the beauty of nature and its diverse creatures,” says Mark Brion.
“My work focuses on vibrant landscapes, dramatic lighting and unique wildlife behaviors. My aim is to provide a greater appreciation for nature’s splendor and inspire increased conservation.”
“Over the years, I have built up my photography gear to align with my genre of choice. Each piece of equipment has been carefully chosen following months of meticulous research. My current lenses range from macro up to telephoto zoom lenses to cover all aspects of natural world photography.
"Many of my images are taken using fast shutter speeds to capture quick-moving natural world subjects. Fast shutter speeds are essential. The chosen Hasselblad X2D 100C and Nikon Z9 camera bodies would both be excellent investments and the lenses will effectively cover both close and distant subjects in my images.
“As technology advances, cameras, lenses and other photography equipment continually improve. My dream items are among
the very best products available in today's marketplace and would elevate my work.”
Specialisms: Natural world photography
Years active: 23
Clients: Rolling Stone, Grazia, The Guardian, The Times
Location: Oxfordshire, UK
Mark's current kit
1) Nikon Z6 II
Time used: 4 years
A popular Z-system camera, this model is designed for pros and enthusiasts. The full-frame sensor gives Karyn great low-light quality.
2) Nikon D850
Time used: 6 years
One of the most popular DSLRs of all time, this FX format camera offers a unique blend of high resolution and speed, with 45 megapixels and 7fps respectively.
3) Nikon AF-S VR 105mm f/2.8G IF-ED
Time used: 6 years
This is a favorite optic for many Nikon photographers, thanks to its sharpness and size.
4) Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM S
Time used: 5 years
This lens gives Mark a huge focal range in a single optic, enabling him to easily reframe without changing lenses.
5) Gitzo Systematic Series 3
Time used: 6 years
Pro cameras require pro tripods, and this heavy-duty model supports all of Mark's top-level camera bodies and tele lenses.
6) Lowepro Pro Runner RL 450 AW 11
Time used: 3 years
This bag fits multiple bodies with attached lenses, so Mark can carry all his essential gear.
Mark's dream kit
1) Hasselblad X2D 100C
MPB says:
"The X2D 100C establishes itself as Hasselblad’s flagship mirrorless medium format camera. It has a 100MP sensor and advanced autofocus."
2) Nikon Z9
MPB says:
"The new Nikon flagship. A fast, powerful AF system with subject detection developed using deep learning technology, combines with 45.7MP stills."
3) Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR S
MPB says:
"This super-telephoto lens offers the unique function of a built-in teleconverter, enabling Mark to crop in even closer to distant nature subjects."
4) Zeiss 100mm f/1.4 OTUS ZF.2
MPB says:
"A reflection of the comprehensive expertise of Zeiss. Although developed for 35mm FX cameras, it gives the look of medium format."
5) Gitzo Systematic Series 4
MPB says:
"Carbon-fiber tripods offer a significant weight saving over aluminum models, and this example is perfect for Mark’s outdoor natural imaging work."
Mark's trade-in options
MPB suggests an extra dream kit item, and how Karyn might trade-in to get it…
Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S
The Nikon Z 100-400mm f/4.5-5.6 VR S is a versatile telephoto zoom lens that is ideal for wildlife and sports photography. Key features include a mid-to-long telephoto 100-400mm focal range, fast autofocus and built-in Vibration Reduction (VR) for sharper handheld shots. Part of Nikon’s S-line, it offers top-tier optics, weather sealing and remains lightweight and portable for use out in the field.
Why this item?
The lens complements Mark’s existing kit and, since he would intend to retain access to the Nikon Z system through the Z9 professional camera body, this optic would expand his telephoto coverage. Mark mentioned that he would select the Nikon Z 600mm f/4 TC VR, which is an incredible long telephoto, but the shorter end of this zoom would also enable him to access images much closer to the camera. He could have one lens on each camera body for easy switching.
Trade-in Option
We’d suggest he trade in his Sigma 150-600mm f/5-6.3 DG OS HSM Sport lens from his existing kitbag, since this range will now be covered across his two new lenses. The 100-400mm Nikon lens is built for the Nikon mirrorless system, so it is significantly more lightweight than the Sigma DSLR-mount optic, so we’d suggest it’s the better choice for his work. Meanwhile, his 600mm prime will offer a wider aperture.
