Photography has always been about storytelling, preserving history, and craftsmanship. That was precisely the case when I had the opportunity to photograph Joe Murillo and his wife’s beautifully restored Ford F-100 live during a webinar with BenQ North America. This wasn’t just another shoot, it was a fusion of art, technology, and passion, made even more special by the use of the all-new Broncolor Satos lighting system, with the assistance of my longtime friend and lighting tech, Will Prentice from Broncolor Canada.
Joe Murillo has been in the auto body repair business for as long as he can remember, turning wrenches and crafting custom builds, but this Ford F-100 restoration was personal. The truck originally belonged to his wife Liane’s father and had spent years on their family farm. Like so many classic vehicles, it had been stored away and slowly deteriorated over time. Instead of letting it rust into history, Joe and Liane decided to give it a second life.
The result? A stunning restoration that blends nostalgia with modern performance. Under the hood, a proper Ford V8 engine from a Mustang now powers the truck. The streamlined bodywork, finished in an immaculate blue, is a testament to Joe’s expertise in auto body craftsmanship. Upgraded suspension, bespoke chrome and steel trim, an updated truck bed, and precision lighting complete the transformation. Every inch of this F-100 has been carefully reimagined, with every bolt replaced and every surface perfected.
This shoot was part of a live webinar for BenQ North America, where I demonstrated my on-location workflow to an audience of photographers, creatives, and enthusiasts. Collaborating with a great team and my lighting partner, Broncolor Canada, I showcased not just how I capture vehicles but also how I have developed an efficient workflow.
I used the BenQ SW240 display as my large external monitor, paired with my MacBook Pro. I tethered my Canon R3 into Capture One via a Tether Tools USB-C TetherPro cable, allowing real-time adjustments and ensuring accurate colour rendering and image quality. Beyond the technical aspects, I also shared insights on working with non-model subjects like Joe—helping someone who isn’t used to being in front of the camera feel comfortable and natural.
This shoot also marked my first experience working with the state-of-the-art Broncolor Satos system – the next generation of lighting technology. The Satos pack and Pulso L strobe head offer unparalleled versatility, smoothly transitioning between photography and video lighting across three independent power channels. With 3200 watts of power and hybrid functionality, this system is a game-changer for modern hybrid shooters working across both stills and motion.
For lighting, I kept the setup simple yet effective. The Octabox 150 served as my key light, providing soft, even illumination. A P70 reflector with a grid added drama and depth, while purple and red gels introduced an edgy, moody atmosphere. With only a handful of Satos systems available in the country right now, this was one of the first shoots to feature this revolutionary lighting system.
Live shoots are always unpredictable, especially in unfamiliar locations like this active shop, where anything can happen. However, I trust both my team and my gear, which allows me to adapt quickly to whatever unfolds in front of the camera. My goal for this shoot was to channel the raw, high-impact editorial style found in Hot Rod magazines of the ’90s – something gritty, yet powerful and timeless.
From dynamic action shots to intimate close-ups, we captured it all. This shoot wasn’t just about showcasing a beautifully restored custom truck – it was about telling a story of craftsmanship, innovation, and a deep personal connection to family legacy.
This project was the perfect blend of storytelling, technology, and collaboration. From the deep-rooted history of Joe and Liane’s Ford F-100 to the cutting-edge tools used to document it for a live audience, this shoot exemplified the power of photography in preserving legacy.
A special thanks to BenQ North America, Broncolor Canada, and Will Prentice for their support and of course, to Joe Murillo, whose craftsmanship and passion made this shoot truly special.
By: Giancarlo Pawelec
9 Davies Avenue – Suite 311, Toronto, Ontario, Canada, M4M 2A6 | (647) 932-7337 | info@pawelecphoto.com
