A Nostalgic Journey Through My Favourite Film Cameras
As a photographer, my journey has been shaped by the tools I’ve chosen to capture the world around me. Each camera I've owned has taught me something new, both about photography and about myself as an artist. From the champagne-colored elegance of the Contax G1 to the robust reliability of the Nikon F5, these cameras have each left their mark on my creative journey. In this post, I want to share some personal stories and reflections on a few cameras that have been particularly meaningful to me—cameras that, for one reason or another, I no longer own but still hold dear in my memory. Let’s dive into a few of these gems and the unique qualities that made them unforgettable.
The Contax G1: A Champagne-Colored Gem
The Contax G1, paired with its 40mm F/2 (Green Label version), was a camera that I cherished deeply. While it wasn’t as fast as the G2 and had a less impressive viewfinder, the little champagne-colored body was what truly won me over. The camera was equipped with the Carl Zeiss 40mm F/2 lens, known for its remarkable sharpness even wide open at F2. It delivered beautiful subject separation and reliable focus. Letting go of this camera was a heart-wrenching decision.
The Contax G1 was more than just a camera—it was a trusted companion. Its champagne finish wasn’t just aesthetically pleasing; it added a unique character that set it apart. The 40mm F/2 lens was a marvel, producing images with stunning sharpness and clarity. Each press of the shutter was a moment of anticipation, knowing the resulting image would be something special.
The Leica M6 TTL: My Former Crown Jewel
The Leica M6 TTL once held the title of my crown jewel. Many photographers dream of passing their Leicas down to future generations, but I came to realize that was a romantic notion rather than a practical one. After 4-6 years of owning the M6, I decided it was time to let it go. My focus had shifted toward becoming a full-time working photographer, and the M6 didn't fit my evolving workflow.
The Leica M6 TTL was more than just a piece of equipment—it was a piece of history. Holding it in my hands, I could feel the weight of the countless stories it had helped capture. Even in a digital age, the M6 TTL could rival modern cameras with its image quality, thanks to Leica’s unmatched craftsmanship. As I refined my practice, I knew it was time for the M6 to find a new home.
The Hasselblad Xpan: Glory to Panoramic Cameras
The Hasselblad Xpan was a dream come true for me. I still remember the excitement of standing outside Vauxhall Underground Station, making a cash-to-camera swap that felt almost too good to be true. But, like all good things, the Xpan eventually stopped fitting into my evolving work needs. The panoramic shots it produced, however, remain etched in my memory.
The Hasselblad Xpan offered a unique way of seeing the world, capturing expansive, immersive images that no other camera could. Looking through its wide viewfinder felt like peering through a window to a broader world. Though it no longer suited my work, the experience of using the Xpan was one I’ll never forget.
The Nikon F5: The One That Got Away
Of all the cameras I've let go, the Nikon F5 is the one I most want back. Think of it as the film version of a modern D4 or D6—packed with every feature you could want for its time. Even as digital photography began to rise, the F5 held its ground as a top-tier choice. Back then, film was often still the preferred medium for serious photographers.
The Nikon F5 was a beast of a camera, with every button and dial thoughtfully placed. It was solid in the hand and built to last. The F5 commanded respect and delivered images of unmatched quality. It’s a camera I regret letting go of and one that I hope to someday reclaim.
The Contax T2: The Bowie of Film Point and Shoots
The Contax T2 was the David Bowie of film point-and-shoot cameras—iconic and capable of extraordinary results. Unfortunately, mine was damaged by someone who borrowed it, which led me to stop renting out my equipment. Despite its small size, the T2 delivered images that rivaled those of much larger and more expensive cameras. Even with its broken flash, I could push Portra 400 to 800 and achieve sharp, striking images with unique color tones.
The T2 was a boundary-pushing camera, breaking the mold of what a point-and-shoot could achieve. It’s a camera I deeply regret losing and one I’d love to have back in my collection.