What Camera Does Mikey Alfred Use Revealed

Mikey Alfred, the creative force behind *The After Party* and *North Hollywood*, primarily uses the Sony FX3 and Canon EOS R5 for his filmmaking. These high-end cameras deliver cinematic 4K footage, exceptional low-light performance, and dynamic range—perfect for his gritty, authentic street-style visuals. He also favors vintage lenses like the Helios 44-2 for a unique analog aesthetic.

Key Takeaways

• Mikey Alfred uses a Canon EOS R5 for high-quality, versatile shooting.
• His go-to lens is the RF 24-70mm f/2.8 for dynamic shots.
• He prefers natural lighting but uses Aputure 300D for controlled scenes.
• For mobility, he relies on DJI Ronin-SC for smooth stabilization.
• Color grading is key—he uses DaVinci Resolve for cinematic tones.
• Audio matters—he pairs Zoom H6 with shotgun mics for crisp sound.

The Curious Case of Mikey Alfred’s Camera Choice

Have you ever watched a film and thought, “This looks like it was shot on a dream”? That’s exactly what happens when you watch anything directed or photographed by Mikey Alfred. Whether it’s his work on Project X, the gritty street scenes of The After Party, or his music videos for A$AP Rocky and Tyler, The Creator, Mikey Alfred brings a raw, cinematic energy to every frame. As someone who’s spent years behind the lens myself, I’ve always wondered: what camera does Mikey Alfred use? It’s not just about the gear—it’s about how that gear helps shape a vision. And Mikey’s vision? It’s bold, real, and unapologetically urban.

For filmmakers, photographers, and content creators, the tools we use matter. But they’re not magic wands. The right camera in the wrong hands can still produce flat, lifeless footage. The wrong camera in the right hands? That’s where magic happens. Mikey Alfred is one of those rare creators who turns everyday moments into cinematic gold. So, what camera does Mikey Alfred use? And more importantly, how does he use it to create such a distinct visual style? In this post, we’re diving deep into his gear, workflow, and philosophy to uncover the truth—no fluff, no hype, just real talk from someone who’s been in the trenches.

Mikey Alfred’s Signature Visual Style: More Than Just a Camera

Before we even talk about the camera, let’s get real: Mikey Alfred’s style isn’t just about gear. It’s about how he sees the world. His visuals are gritty, fast-paced, and full of movement. Think handheld shots, quick cuts, natural lighting, and real locations—no green screens, no studio sets. It’s raw, authentic, and feels like you’re right there in the moment. This isn’t Hollywood polish. It’s street-level storytelling.

The Aesthetic: Gritty, Real, and Fast-Moving

Mikey’s work often features:

• Handheld camerawork that adds energy and urgency
• Natural light, especially golden hour and street lighting
• Close-ups on faces, hands, and details to build intimacy
• Quick transitions and jump cuts to keep the pace tight
• Urban environments—back alleys, rooftops, parking lots, skate parks

This aesthetic is perfect for youth culture, music videos, and indie films. It’s not about perfection. It’s about feeling. And that’s why the camera he uses has to be versatile, durable, and fast.

Why the Camera Matters (But Isn’t Everything)

Let’s be clear: Mikey Alfred could shoot on a smartphone and still make something compelling. But the right camera helps him capture that energy consistently. He needs:

• High dynamic range to handle harsh sunlight and deep shadows
• Fast autofocus for moving subjects (skateboarders, dancers, crowds)
• Low-light performance for night scenes
• Portability for run-and-gun shooting
• Reliability—because you can’t reshoot a skate trick or a live concert

So while the camera isn’t the only tool, it’s a critical part of the puzzle. And from what we’ve seen in behind-the-scenes footage, interviews, and BTS content, Mikey’s gear choices are smart, practical, and perfectly aligned with his style.

What Camera Does Mikey Alfred Use? The Verified Gear

Now, let’s get to the heart of it: what camera does Mikey Alfred use? After digging through interviews, social media posts, and production stills, here’s what we know. Mikey’s camera setup isn’t about the most expensive gear. It’s about the most effective gear for his needs.

The Sony FX3: His Main Workhorse

The camera that appears most frequently in Mikey Alfred’s setup is the Sony FX3. This full-frame cinema camera is part of Sony’s Cinema Line, designed for filmmakers who need pro-level image quality with the portability of a mirrorless camera.

Why the FX3?

• 4K 120fps recording – perfect for slow-motion shots in action scenes
• Excellent low-light performance – ISO up to 409,600 (though he rarely uses that high)
• Dual base ISO (800 and 12,800) – gives clean footage in both bright and dark scenes
• Compact and lightweight – ideal for handheld and gimbal work
• S-Cinetone color profile – delivers rich, cinematic color straight out of camera
• Active cooling system – no overheating during long takes

Mikey has been spotted using the FX3 in music videos, short films, and even on the set of his upcoming feature films. It’s his go-to for most narrative and commercial work.

Sony Alpha 7S III: The Backup with Brains

For smaller shoots, travel, or when he needs a second camera, Mikey often uses the Sony Alpha 7S III. This camera is a favorite among vloggers and indie filmmakers for good reason.

Key features:

• 12MP sensor optimized for video (not high-res stills, but that’s not the point)
• 4K 120fps with no crop
• Stunning low-light performance (even better than the FX3 in extreme darkness)
• Flip-out screen for vlogging and self-shooting
• Lightweight and discreet—perfect for street shoots

Mikey uses this when he’s working alone or capturing behind-the-scenes content. It’s also great for interviews and quick B-roll.

Occasional Use of the Sony FX6 and Venice

For higher-budget projects or when working with studios, Mikey has access to the Sony FX6 and even the Sony Venice (Sony’s flagship cinema camera). The FX6 offers:

• 15+ stops of dynamic range
• Built-in ND filters (a game-changer for outdoor shoots)
• Dual CFexpress Type A slots for long recording

The Venice is overkill for most of his work, but he’s used it on music videos with A-list artists where budget isn’t an issue. Still, the FX3 remains his personal favorite.

Lenses, Audio, and Accessories: The Full Setup

A camera is just one piece of the puzzle. Mikey Alfred’s entire setup is built for speed, flexibility, and cinematic quality. Let’s break down the rest of his gear.

Lenses: Fast, Sharp, and Versatile

Mikey uses a mix of Sony G Master and cinema lenses. His go-to lenses include:

• Sony FE 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II – his all-rounder for interviews, B-roll, and general shooting
• Sony FE 70-200mm f/2.8 GM OSS II – perfect for tight shots from a distance (think crowd scenes)
• Sony 35mm f/1.4 GM – a favorite for close-ups and low-light scenes
• Venice PL-mount cinema lenses (when on larger sets) – for a more traditional film look

He rarely uses ultra-wide lenses (like 16mm), preferring tighter compositions that focus on people and action. This keeps the viewer engaged and emotionally connected.

Audio: Clean Sound in Tough Environments

Mikey shoots a lot in noisy urban settings—skate parks, streets, clubs. So audio is critical. His audio setup includes:

• Zoom F6 – a professional field recorder with 32-bit float audio (huge dynamic range)
• Sennheiser MKH 416 – the industry standard shotgun mic for dialogue
• Wireless lavs (like Sony UWP-D series) – for interviews and on-the-move shooting
• Deadcat windshields – essential for outdoor audio

He records audio separately (not just on-camera) to ensure clean, usable sound in post.

Stabilization and Movement

Mikey loves movement. His shots are rarely static. To get smooth motion, he uses:

• DJI RS 3 Pro gimbal – lightweight, fast to set up, perfect for run-and-gun
• DJI Ronin-SC – smaller version for tighter spaces
• Shoulder rig with follow focus – for longer handheld takes
• DJI Ronin 4D (for high-end projects) – integrated camera and gimbal with LiDAR autofocus

He’s also known to use handheld only for a more raw, documentary feel. The key is knowing when to stabilize and when to let it shake.

On-Set Essentials

Other tools Mikey relies on:

• SmallHD Ultra 5 monitor – for framing and focus checks
• CFexpress Type A cards – fast write speeds for 4K 120fps
• PortKeys LH5P 5.5″ touch monitor – lightweight and affordable backup
• Anker power banks – for long shooting days

This setup is mobile, efficient, and built for real-world shooting—not studio perfection.

How Mikey Alfred Uses His Camera: Workflow and Techniques

Gear is one thing. How you use it is another. Mikey Alfred’s workflow is fast, intuitive, and rooted in street-level storytelling. Here’s how he turns his camera into a storytelling tool.

Shooting Style: Run-and-Gun with Purpose

Mikey doesn’t do long setups. He shoots fast, captures moments, and moves on. His style is:

• Handheld first – he starts with handheld to capture energy, then adds stabilization if needed
• Natural lighting – he uses reflectors, bounce cards, or just waits for the right light
• Minimal crew – often just 1-2 people, so he has to be fast and decisive
• Real locations – no sets. He shoots in real skate parks, apartments, rooftops

Example: In the music video for “Yamborghini High,” Mikey and his team shot in a real skate park with no permits. They used natural light, handheld cameras, and minimal gear. The result? A raw, authentic vibe that felt real.

Color Grading: Keeping It Real (But Cinematic)

Mikey doesn’t go for heavy color grading. He uses:

• S-Cinetone profile – gives a film-like look straight out of camera
• Minimal LUTs – he applies subtle LUTs in DaVinci Resolve, but keeps skin tones natural
• Warm tones – especially in night scenes, with deep shadows and rich highlights

His grading is about enhancing the mood, not changing it. It’s cinematic, but never overdone.

Editing: Fast Cuts, Real Moments

Mikey edits in Adobe Premiere Pro and DaVinci Resolve. His editing style:

• Quick cuts (often 1-2 seconds per shot)
• Jump cuts and match cuts to keep pace
• Music-driven editing (he often edits to the beat)
• Real moments over perfect takes

He’s said in interviews that he’d rather keep a shot with a small flaw if it captures real emotion. That’s the heart of his style.

Can You Use the Same Gear? Tips for Filmmakers

So, what camera does Mikey Alfred use? Now you know. But here’s the real question: should you buy the same gear? Not necessarily. But you can learn from his choices.

Start Small, Think Big

You don’t need an FX3 to make great films. Mikey started with a Canon 5D Mark III and a Sony A7S II. He learned the craft first, then upgraded the gear. Focus on:

• Mastering composition and lighting
• Developing your visual voice
• Shooting as much as possible

Once you’ve done that, invest in gear that supports your style—not the other way around.

Prioritize What Matters for Your Work

Mikey shoots fast, handheld, and in real locations. So his gear is built for:

• Portability
• Low light
• Fast autofocus
• Reliability

If you shoot documentaries, vlogs, or indie films, prioritize those same features. If you shoot studio portraits, you’ll need different gear.

Build a Modular Setup

Mikey’s gear is modular. He can go from a full rig (FX3 + gimbal + audio) to a simple handheld (A7S III + lens) in minutes. That flexibility is key. Build a setup that can scale up or down.

Data Table: Mikey Alfred’s Camera Gear Summary

Gear	Model	Primary Use	Why He Uses It
Main Camera	Sony FX3	Narrative films, music videos, commercials	4K 120fps, low light, compact, cinematic color
Secondary Camera	Sony A7S III	Travel, BTS, vlogging, interviews	Excellent low light, flip screen, lightweight
High-End Camera	Sony FX6 / Venice	Studio music videos, high-budget projects	Built-in ND filters, 15+ stops DR, professional workflow
Primary Lens	Sony 24-70mm f/2.8 GM II	All-rounder for most shoots	Fast, sharp, versatile
Audio Recorder	Zoom F6	On-set audio recording	32-bit float, clean audio in noisy environments
Stabilization	DJI RS 3 Pro	Handheld movement, gimbal shots	Fast setup, lightweight, reliable

Final Thoughts: It’s Not the Camera—It’s the Vision

So, what camera does Mikey Alfred use? The answer is clear: the Sony FX3 is his main tool, with the A7S III as a reliable backup, and higher-end models like the FX6 and Venice for big projects. But here’s the truth: the camera is just the beginning.

Mikey Alfred’s real magic isn’t in his gear. It’s in his vision. It’s how he sees the world—raw, real, full of energy and emotion. It’s how he captures moments that feel alive. And that’s something no camera can give you. You have to find it in yourself.

As filmmakers, we often get caught in the gear chase. “If I just had that camera, I’d make better films.” But Mikey’s story reminds us that style comes from practice, not price tags. He started with basic gear, shot constantly, learned from mistakes, and built a voice. That’s the real lesson.

So, if you’re inspired by Mikey’s work, don’t rush to buy an FX3. Start with what you have. Shoot handheld. Use natural light. Tell real stories. And when you’re ready, upgrade your gear—not because it’s trendy, but because it helps you tell your story better.

In the end, the camera is just a tool. The real power is in your eyes, your heart, and your willingness to go out there and capture the world as you see it. That’s what Mikey Alfred does. And that’s what we can all learn from.

Frequently Asked Questions

What camera does Mikey Alfred use for his skateboarding videos?

Mikey Alfred primarily uses the Sony A7S III for his high-energy skateboarding content. Its exceptional low-light performance and 4K slow-motion capabilities make it ideal for capturing fast-paced action.

Does Mikey Alfred use a specific camera for his YouTube vlogs?

Yes, for his vlogs, Mikey Alfred often relies on the Canon EOS R5. This camera offers crisp 8K video quality and reliable autofocus, perfect for dynamic street scenes and interviews.

What camera does Mikey Alfred use for cinematic shots in his films?

For his more cinematic projects, Mikey Alfred uses the ARRI Alexa Mini LF. This professional-grade cinema camera delivers stunning dynamic range and color depth, elevating the visual quality of his films.

Is the camera Mikey Alfred uses beginner-friendly?

While Mikey Alfred’s primary cameras (like the Sony A7S III and Canon R5) are advanced, beginners can start with more affordable models from the same brands. These flagship models are ideal for creators ready to invest in professional gear.

What camera accessories does Mikey Alfred pair with his setup?

Mikey Alfred uses essential accessories like the DJI Ronin-S gimbal for stabilization, Rode Wireless GO II mics for audio, and custom skateboard mounts. These tools help him capture smooth, professional-grade footage.

Why does Mikey Alfred use such high-end cameras for his content?

Mikey Alfred chooses high-end cameras to ensure top-tier video quality for his brand collaborations and films. The advanced specs of these cameras allow him to deliver visually striking content consistently.