Tools for 2019
First Published April 5,2019
The hibernation season is officially over for me. It's time to give this blog the loving and attention it deserves. Let’s start by giving my dear readers an update on some of the tools I'll be using this year.
Nikon Z7
My bread and butter camera I will be using this year is the Nikon Z7. I predominantly shoot weddings now, and the studio I work with required me to go full frame (preferably Nikon). This camera is a bit overkill, but seeing that the Z7 is the first full frame camera I've ever owned, why not right? It's an investment! I am still getting a feel for the camera, as the button layout differ and apparently everything in the Nikon world is backwards from everyone else.
I just wanted to point out that I've been shooting gigs for the last six years+. In my opinion, the last thing your clients care about is your sensor size. I've also 24-Megapixel is enough resolution for professional use. So if you have been on the fence about taking on paid work, dooooo it!
Here are some sample images from the Z7.
Nikon FM2
The next camera I've been using to challenge myself and document my everyday life is my Nikon FM2. The honeymoon stage is still not over when it comes to analog/film photography. I've tried point and shoot, as well as range finder cameras. Nothing beats the feeling and experience of using an SLR.
Magnum Contact Sheets
Now for the most important item on this list, my Magnum Contact Sheets. In my opinion, this is where every amateur photographer should invest their money. If you are unfamiliar with the contents of this book, it's the behind the scene and creative processes some of the world's most iconic photos. Each photographer shares their contact sheet, displaying all 36 exposures of their film and how they selected the one for the world to see. It's very interesting to see how they all approach their subjects differently.
As a visual learner, the contact sheets is a great resource to have and has provided me with endless guidance and inspiration in my journey of photography.
