My Camera Gear
With a nod to James Popsys : www.jamespopsys.com
I’m a big proponent of the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) ecosystem. This is primarily driven by the relatively smaller size and weight, particularly for the lenses, over Full Frame. This is important for travelling.
There are pros and cons with this system. Low light performance and depth of field are the usual “cons,” but MFT offers arguably better image stabilization, greater reach and improved macro photography capabilities. But for me, the real reason is size and weight.
I use the Panasonic Lumix G9 body with a suite of Leica-glass lenses.
Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 8-18mm f 2.8-4.0 lens
This is my go-to wide angle lens - great for the inside of buildings or sweeping landscapes.
Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 12-60 mm f 2.8-4.0 lens.
This is the workhorse of the fleet. Probably on my camera 60% of the time when I’m not in the studio working on macro photography.
Leica Nocticron 42.5 mm f 1.2 lens
The legendary Noctricon: a heavy, very fast, crisp portrait lens. It doesn’t get used very often but when it’s on the camera it just feels powerful!
Leica D G Vario-Elmarit 50-200 mm f 2.8-4.0 zoom lens
My first choice for long-reach zoom shots. Gives the reach of a Full Frame equivalent of 400mm lens but is less than 20cm (8”) long fully extended.
Leica DG Vario-Elmarit 100-400 mm f 4.0-6.3 zoom lens
The “Binford” lens of my gear - when you need that extra reach!
It comes with a tripod mount as it can get little heavy and “tippy” when fully extended to 27cm (11”).
Lumix G9 Mark II
I simply love this camera. The ergonomics are wonderful; it feels like an extension of your hand.
Leica DG Summilux 9mm f1.7 lens
This is a sharp, fast, lightweight wide angle prime lens. It feels a bit “plastically” but it is a great companion!
Panasonic 30mm f2.8 macro lens
This is a great macro lens yielding 1:1 ratios