My Journey in Digital Photography
Photography has always been a part of my family, especially on my father’s side, and it’s through this legacy that I discovered my passion for this art form. I’m not entirely sure if my hobby is about photography itself or the cameras. If you look at the array of equipment I’ve used over the years, you might think the gear is my main interest, with photography coming second. Of course, taking photos and editing them brings joy as it allows me to express my creative ideas. Different cameras, each with their unique features, quirks, and flaws, add their own flavor to the experience. I can proudly say that most of my cameras were bought used, and I’ve sold or traded my old gear, so I haven’t gone overboard financially.
About 50% of my camera gear is not listed below; I have only included the cameras that have had a significant impact on my photography journey.
2004: Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-P32
My first digital camera was the Sony Cyber-Shot DSC-P32, acquired in 2004. It featured a 3.2-megapixel CCD sensor, a fixed lens with no zoom, and was powered by AA batteries. Alongside it, I also used the pocket-sized Nikon E4600. Despite their modest specs, both cameras captured unforgettable moments at the time.
2008: Entering the DSLR World with Pentax K100D Super
In 2008, I got my first DSLR, the Pentax K100D Super. It boasted a 6-megapixel CCD sensor, producing beautiful, almost film-like images. The camera’s in-body image stabilization was cutting-edge at the time, and it was compatible with older Pentax lenses, which were affordable back then. Check out my Water Tower article for more images taken with the Pentax K100D Super.
2009: Transition to Nikon D80
By 2009, I transitioned to a Nikon D80, which I enjoyed using for over a year. It shared the Pentax’s advantage of compatibility with older lenses. I also added a Nikon Speedlight SB-600 flash to my kit, experimenting with flash photography basics.
2011: Canon Powershot S95 and Canon EOS 60D
Next came my Canon phase. The Canon Powershot S95 was a compact powerhouse, while the Canon EOS 60D, an entry-level DSLR, didn’t impress me much and was quickly sold. The S95, however, was such a joy that I upgraded to the S110 later on.
2012: Nikon D3100 and Canon Powershot S110
I’ve always been a big fan of Nikon’s 3000 series. Despite their basic features, these budget-friendly cameras deliver incredible image quality. I used my Canon Powershot S110 alongside these.
2012-2016: Mobile Photography and Nikon D3300
As phone cameras improved, I started shooting a lot with my phones and an Apple iPod. Who still remembers the Hipstamatic app for the iPod/iPhone? In 2016, I added a Nikon D3300 to my collection. The Nikon AF-S DX NIKKOR 35mm f/1.8G lens was a perfect companion, offering great value for money.
2018: Ricoh GR2
The Ricoh GR2 became a favorite among street photographers for its refined usability and the film-like quality of its images. While it produced superb pictures, the GR2 was primarily designed for street photographers, enabling them to make discreet snapshots. Its compact size and quick operation made it perfect for capturing candid moments on the go.
2019: Nikon D3400, Nikon D7200, and Olympus PEN E-PL8
Returning to Nikon in 2019, I acquired the D3400 and later the D7200. The D7200 offered more features but at the cost of added weight and size. I also got an white version of Olympus PEN E-PL8, which was as beautiful as a candy.
2022: Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II & Mark III, and OM-D E-M1 Mark II
After trying Olympus, I was hooked. These cameras packed incredible features into a compact body, and the build quality was top-notch. The MFT sensor, despite its small size, delivered excellent results.
2023: Vintage Nikon D90
In 2023, I found a Nikon D90 with a Nikkor AF-S 18-200mm 1:3.5-5.6 GII ED VR lens, almost in mint condition. Despite being released back in 2008, it still produced wonderful images. Unfortunately, my D90 had tens of dead pixels that showed as white spots in dark night scenes. Cleaning them up was too much work, so I swapped the D90 for the Nikon Z fc, which turned out not to be a smart idea…
2024: A word of warning about the Nikon Z fc
In 2024, I tried the Nikon Z fc camera, but it was a big disappointment in every way. I cannot recommend it to anyone. Although it looks like a reliable vintage-style SLR, stay away from it. The mechanical build quality of the camera is the worst on the market. Mine had to be serviced, and they had to replace the entire top part of the camera because the exposure compensation dial broke during use. I read similar stories on Nikon user forums, indicating that this is a common issue. Despite its appealing design, the Nikon Z fc fails to deliver in terms of durability and reliability.
2024: OM-D E-M5 Mark III
I used the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with an OM SYSTEM M.Zuiko 20mm f/1.4 ED Pro lens until August 2024. The performance was outstanding, offering exceptional image quality in a compact, weather-sealed package. However, despite its small size and great capabilities, I found that I wasn’t carrying it with me often enough. Eventually, I decided to sell this gear, but my journey with digital cameras did not end here. Each camera has added something new to my experience, and the OM-D E-M5 Mark III was no exception
Conclusion
In conclusion, you don’t need the latest and most expensive camera gear to enjoy photography. However, the right camera can inspire you to take more and better photos. The best camera is always the one you have with you, ready to capture the moment. Remember, photography is not just about the equipment; it’s about the stories you tell and the memories you create. Embrace your unique journey, experiment with different tools, and let your creativity shine through every shot. Every click is a step in your photographic adventure, and the most beautiful pictures are often those that capture the essence of your passion and the world around you.
