My New Marriage

I am not particularly concerned with camera equipment.  I have always wanted a camera that was reliable and produced the shot I wanted.  And did it regularly with no surprises. Friends looking to buy a camera occasionally ask for equipment recommendations.  I am clueless. When I was shooting film I pretty much used the same Nikon system that I started with.  Later, I added a couple of Leicas and a few lenses: that became my working outfit for the next 25 or so years.  I loved using Leicas; they were and probably still are – the absolute best cameras ever made.  Really.  When I had to finally make the switch to digital photography, I eventually sold the Nikon outfit, but I could not part with the Leicas. They remained, secure in my safe for many years.  And yes, I do take them out  occasionally, just play with them.

Anyway, for my professional work, I have been using Canon DSLR’s: big, heavy and very reliable.  Also, Canon has great customer service folks for when I couldn’t figure out stuff.  

Recently I got to play with a new line of cameras from another company: smaller and lighter equipment that still got the shots.  I fell in love all over again.  OK, maybe not really ‘in love’ but impressed enough to invest in the beginning of a new working outfit. 

First impression of the new gear was kind of intimidating: new camera has 26 different control buttons and leavers, many of those open up screens and more settings.  To further complicate it, some of these controls can be reprogramed or disabled all together.  

The good news is that in the end, it is still a camera and I do know a bit about cameras. A couple of weeks later, some hours spent watching on-line tutorials and grinding my way through the 200 page instruction book, I am finally in charge.  I think.  Will find that out on the next job.

But here is the best news so far: turns out that with a simple adapter, I can actually use my ‘vintage’ Leica lenses on this camera!  OK, for the photo ‘enthusiasts’ out there, this is no great revelation.  For me: Hoo-Boy!

A few days ago, my new lens adapter arrived: $8.89, including shipping from China. It is surprisingly well made and fits both camera and lenses properly.  Best part: I spent the weekend playing with my ‘new’ camera and my ‘old’ lenses. 

Here is a photo of the new match: 50mm Leitz f/2 Summicron (vintage 1960),  with my brand new Olympus OM-D E-M1, united.