Just before I went abroad this year I decided to purchase one of Pentax's super-wide primes to see how it performs compared to my 16-50mm zoom lens. I have been interested in this lens for quite a while prior to purchasing, mainly because it is so small and it is also the widest fixed focal length lens Pentax offer, except for a fish-eye. Given I am a wide-angle man rather than a telephoto the purchase of this lens was imminent, I just needed an excuse, so three weeks before going abroad I made the leap.
If ever there was a scene waiting to be photographed, it is during those few minutes at the beginning or end of the day when light becomes really magical, transforming even the most mundane subject matter into a potential work of art. I would guess that nearly all photographers will have a series of sunrise and sunset images in their collection as they can make for stunning viewing and are relatively easy to capture. Add to this the absolute peace that can be found working at these hours…what is there not to like? Some of the memories I have from being up before the silver dawn and walking across moors (or camping out for the night) to get to my chosen subject are every bit as exciting as making the final image. Similarly, taking a walk along coastal cliffs during twilight looking for a good location to capture those warm sky tones after sundown can be spiritual.
Kiwi specialise in producing high quality photographic accessories such as lens and mount adapters, macro accessories and quick release systems. Their product line is constantly expanding to provide useful well engineered components that complement most camera manufacturer’s offerings, including Leica.
PhotoArk have used many different camera systems and models over the years, and we were early adopters of the Olympus E-System, obtaining and using two models early in its history. The first of these was the E-1, followed a little while after by the E-510. I was always impressed with the build quality of Olympus cameras, and my experience with them goes back three decades with their film OM System. These two digital models were no exception; the E-1 being built like it could knock nails into wood and fully weather sealed, and the 510 being lighter, more portable and an ideal travel companion.
Last weekend saw me at a loose end with my time due to an extended period of rain that had moved across the United Kingdom. The hill opposite the house had disappeared under a veil of low rain bearing cloud that occasionally lifted its tendrils, revealing misty outlines of trees clinging perilously to a carboniferous matrix of scree and small cliffs, once a thriving limestone quarry.
Gear Acquisition Syndrome is the friendly name given to a hopeless condition suffered by many photographers, whereby they add equipment to their arsenal at a feverish rate, using the feeblest excuse to justify new purchases. One minute you have just a couple of items and the next, cupboards and drawers are overflowing with the stuff. Sneaking it into the house passed a loved one can involve complex levels of deceit that a politician would be proud of. Hiding the financial drain catapults the web of lies to whole new level almost tantamount to infidelity.