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What should we do when we don't have our best camera?

We've all read about how slow and bulky medium + large format photography can be. The names of Leica and Hasselblad ring in our ears and we develop envious eyes.

Those of us who aren't lucky enough to afford these beautiful and powerful pieces of equipment often opt for a DSLR. Whilst these are still incredible in their own right (and I am amazed by the increased standard of even entry level equipment over the past 5 years), they are still often too bulky for us to take when visiting new locations in the country/world, especially when photography comes in as a secondary motivator for the visit.

So what should we do? Walk past, into or through incredible locations and viewpoints? One idea would be to stop, appreciate, wander and explore - I am all too aware that the experience of a location can often be absolved by the simple act of taking a series of photographs. The other idea, and an even worse one, would be to shrug our shoulders and say 'if only I had my [insert your current camera model here]'.

During a recent visit to Spain, I didn't have my go to camera. I had a mobile phone and a very old IXUS 130 that I pulled out of a drawer from years ago. We saw this absolutely stunning building on the edge of a nearby hillside and, electing to miss our train to another city, made our way to it by taxi with no clue about what we were about to find. No, I am not impressed with the technical results of the image. No, I couldn't choose A or T values. No, I'm not able to steady my hand and slow the shutter to use it at the beginning/end of the day, but when we discovered this location, I went for the equipment which is scoffed at by many and it took me right back to the heart of why I do this: the pure joy and fun found through exploring. Relating to and arranging the elements in front of you, in a way which is aesthetic personally. If anything, the limitations of the camera helped hone the eye in this space and develop a series of images which, now I review them, sit together nicely. Forget the standard of equipment you have in your hand; experience and enjoy.

It has led to a question for me though, especially with the development of mirrorless cameras. What choice would you make when selecting a quality 'back up' camera for light travel, without breaking the bank or opting for these systems which end up becoming almost as large as a DSLR kit anyway?! Any advice, thoughts or comments would be welcome.

Oh, and if you're off and travelling light this summer, there's always room for that little old camera!

And for my website, have a look here: Richard Fraser Photography

Taken on: August 16, 2016

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Sets appears in: • Galacia

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