Brandon sports all black, non-reflective clothing while on set.

Sometimes one’s job dictates one’s style. In the case of a photographer on-set, fashion choices must be ergonomic, comfortable, and durable. When you’re lifting heavy cameras and lights and running around to capture the perfect angle for 12 hours at a time, your clothing has to work with you, not against you. This is something Brandon Gong (@brandon.gong) knows well. He’s a professional camera operator and photographer from the Bay Area.

While on set, Brandon prefers dri fit t-shirts — “because being on set, it’s like a workout” — and cooperative shoes. His outfit pictured here is fit for the job: a black dri fit shirt (Nike, $20); black, durable and non-reflective jeans (Levi’s, $40); a snapback hat (Odesza, $40 from their live concert, pre-pandemic); and a chest strap for lugging around gear (Conterra, $75).

Brandon sports all black, non-reflective clothing while on set.

“When I’m working,” says Gong, “I try to exhibit my own style, but I also want the clothing I buy to fit my lifestyle. At times, I do copy clothing that I see on set and pull inspiration from other crew members. Like when I see some nice boots, I like to ask where the person picked them up from.”

That’s how he picked up his Conterra chest strap, which he refers to as his most useful piece to wear while on-set.

When Brandon’s not shooting, he’s typically out exploring the nooks of what California’s diverse landscape has to offer and capturing stunning photos. Sometimes, his occupation and adventures go hand in hand, which makes the clothing he purchases essential for all aspects of his life. While on a shoot in the mountains of Arizona (see photo), Brandon sported another black Nike dri fit shirt, black Lululemon slacks ($70), and flat black sneakers (Vans, $40). He completed the outfit with his favorite flannel (Muji, $25). “I’ve had that flannel for about six years now. It’s lasted me through countless video shoots, oversea adventures, and hikes around the world.”

Although he doesn’t have an allegiance to any particular clothing store, Brandon likes to shop around REI to pick up new pieces while also exploring second-hand stores and thrift shops, plus Ross and TJ Maxx.

“I really like the fact that all of the clothing REI sells is made for durability, since it’s an outdoor gear store. The one-year warranty, even if it’s been used, is pretty great too.”