Here’s a detailed overview of Brendan Ó Sé’s camera gear and shooting style, based on credible sources:
Primary Gear
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iPhone (started with iPhone 4 in 2012, currently using newer models, he used iPhone 7)
Brendan shoots almost exclusively with his phone, valuing its discretion, portability, and the ability to work stealthily in street settings—especially in Asia and Europe.
Hybrid Setup (Past & Current)
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Fujifilm X100T / X100V
He began using the X100T for street work to benefit from its compact size and learn quicker shooting, though he still finds the iPhone more spontaneous and less intrusive.
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| Fuji X100V see it on Amazon |
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Nikon D7000 DSLR
Used intermittently, especially before fully adopting mobile photography, offering technical backup when needed.
Editing & Style
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Edits directly on the iPhone using apps like Snapseed, Hipstamatic, and BlurFX.
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Embraces creative limitations—motion blur, soft focus, and painterly effects from native phone constraints.
Shooting Philosophy
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Prioritizes being invisible in public—people are more natural around a phone.
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Relies on intuition and spontaneity: “Creativity through limitations”—uses flaws to craft mood.
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Focuses on street, portraits, and abstract themes across diverse locations—Tokyo, Seoul, Dublin, Porto.
In His Own Words
“The iPhone… small, discreet, fast and allowed me to get in close on the streets…”.
“Creativity through limitations… accentuated movements and form”
Want to Shoot Like Brendan?
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Use an iPhone (or similar smartphone) with native or Noir mode.
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Edit mobile—try Snapseed or Hipstamatic for moods.
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Stay invisible—blend into crowds; shoot handheld.
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Embrace limitations—use movement, blur, framing creatively.
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Spin slow shutter/camera movement effects via burst mode and handheld motion.