Help Me Rebuild My Photography Gear & Keep Creating

Hey everyone — it’s Rio Watkins (RioViisuals).

I’ve been a photographer for years, using my lens to tell powerful stories, highlight community voices, and document truth, beauty, and resilience especially here in Detroit. My work is about more than just images. It’s about impact.

Recently, I hit a wall. Some of my core equipment broke including my Godox AD200 Pro flash, and I lost access to a few lenses I depended on for client work and creative projects. While I still have my Sony 24-70mm, I’ve been needing my longer-range lens back (like a 200mm) to expand the work I’m doing now.

With everything I’m juggling life, bills, and trying to build a future with my brand I just don’t have the funding to replace these tools right now. That’s why I’m reaching out to my community.

I’m asking for help to get back to full creative power. Here’s what I need:

What Your Support Will Help Cover:

• Godox AD200 Pro Flash – $300

• Sony 85mm f/1.8 Lens – $600

• Sony 70-200mm f/4 G OSS Lens (used) – $1,100

• Lighting Accessories, Batteries, and Reflectors – $200

• Protective Gear (Backpack, Lens Cases, Straps) – $150

etc

Total Goal: $3,000

⸻

Why This Matters to me

For moments I get to document. From small businesses and nonprofits to artists, families, and movements, my camera has always been a way to serve something bigger.

I want to keep doing this work. I need to. And with your help, I can.

Even if you can’t donate, sharing this with someone who might be able to means a lot.

Thank you for reading. Thank you for believing.

Let’s keep creating.

With gratitude,

Rio Watkins

(@RioViisuals)