Tattooed Nerd / Field notes

A better setup.
Start here.

Practical instruction for looking and sounding better in meetings, recordings and video podcasts.

4 free guides · Read them in order or start with the topic you need.

Camera · Lighting · Audio · Workflow

Guide 01How to look and sound better using equipment you already own.

Fix the basics in order: camera height, light placement, microphone distance, room distractions and saved settings. Change one variable at a time so you can tell what helped.

By Patrick Kelley · October 4, 2026

Read the guide

Camera · Lenses · Daily workflow

Guide 02Webcam vs. mirrorless: when is the upgrade worth it?

Compare image control, lens choice, desk space, connections, and continuous power. Decide whether a camera upgrade solves a real limitation in your meetings or recordings.

By Patrick Kelley · October 4, 2026

Read the guide

Lighting · Room control · Video

Guide 033-point lighting: give every light a job.

Place your key, fill, and rim lights, control glare and changing daylight, and add background color with purpose. Follow Patrick’s studio demonstration, one light at a time.

By Patrick Kelley · October 6, 2026

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Cameras · Cost · Manual control

Guide 04The 4 levels of cameras for your home studio.

Compare laptop cameras, USB webcams, compact cameras, and mirrorless systems by cost, pros, and cons. Learn how aperture, ISO, and white balance help you create a consistent picture.

By Patrick Kelley · October 7, 2026

Read the guide

Ready to invest in your video?

Playbook

$14.95

A practical PDF guide to improving your camera, lighting, audio, and workflow at your own pace.

Buy Now

Blueprint

$299

One private one-hour virtual session with Patrick to improve the equipment you already own.

Let’s TalkWe’ll talk first. Payment comes after we confirm the fit.

Studio Build

$499

A personalized equipment plan and two private virtual sessions to guide your setup.

Let’s TalkWe’ll talk first. Payment comes after we confirm the fit.Equipment purchases are separate.

White Glove

$1,599

Patrick comes onsite to assemble, configure, test, and optimize your studio.

Let’s TalkWe’ll talk first. Payment comes after we confirm the fit.Equipment purchases are separate. Service in the Charleston, South Carolina area; client-paid travel outside the area.