Based on actual usage rather than ideals, what would you say your two main cameras are these days? If it can be b0iled down to two, I mean. Main camera and primary alternate. I just wonder what people are actually shooting with these days.
I was going to say Main: Fuji X-H1, Primary Alternate: Fuji X-T1, but then it occurred to me that I do a lot of "all kinds of stuff" with the iPhone too. I guess if I had to say, for my main camera I switch off between the X-H1 and the X-T1 (which I try to keep in the car) and then my primary alternate is the iPhone. Of course that's cheating on my own rules which is pretty absurd!
I find I still don't like to "claim" the iPhone but I have to be honest.
You? Where're you at these days?
Mike
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(To see all the comments, click on the "Comments" link below.)
Featured Comments from:
SteveW: "My main cameras for some time have been Nikon D750 and D7500. I'm a Nikon guy, and the cameras are easy for me to use. (I doubt I'll find the motivation or justify the expense to change systems, even to the Nikon Z system.) That said, I am more and more using my iPhone 11 Pro. I'm finding it fun to use, and getting images in different ways just by how small the phone is, and how I can hold it in varying perspectives so quickly and easily. And it's always with me. After using the iPhone, picking up one of my DSLR's is quite an A/B effect. Like going from a Miata to a Suburban?"
Ed Donnelly: "A9 for wildlife and other moving objects, and A7R IV for everything else. Although I own and am very fond of an X-T3 as well, it just doesn't get as much love as the Sonys for some reason. "
Brad Burnham: "Hasselblad 500C and iPhone XS Max."
Kyle Batson: "I lucked into a windfall earlier this year and splurged on a Leica M10. I’ve barely put it down since. And because my Voigtlander 35mm ƒ/1.4 is under repair, it’s been my 50mm ƒ/2 Summicron that I have been shooting with for the past several months. It’s the most wonderful shooting experience I’ve had, second to my Fuji X-T3 with 35mm ƒ/2 I sold two years ago.
"My other go-to, my secondary, is my Sony RX10IV. I’ve never been a super zoom fan, but the size, zoom range, image quality, and value combination is unmatched. I don’t use it nearly as much as the Leica, but it’s great for hiking, travel, and wildlife work. Still in my kit is the wonderful Sony A7 III and Leica Q, but they overlap a lot with my other cameras for current uses so much they aren’t getting much use lately."
Jay Burleson: "Gone back to ultra-simple. I now have only two cameras (have never really used my phone for pictures). Carrying a Leica Q2 and a Leica Q2 Monochrom in one bag and the whole package is not much bigger than a loaf of bread. Just like the old days; one body for color and one for B&W."
Fulvio Senore: "Just one camera: Panasonic GX9 with the 3D printed handle that you recommended about six month ago."
Cecilia: "OM-D E-M1 Mark II and iPhone X...I keep thinking I should need more...."
Mike replies: Count your blessings!
Carl Blesch: "Bought a Nikon Z6 in mid-2019 and have been in love with it ever since, mainly for delivering clean images in low light at high ISO settings. My previous main camera, a Nikon D7100, continues to be a useful backup, especially for long telephoto shots with its DX sensor. And, of course, my iPhone."
Brian Small: "Canon M5 for my main. I don't really have a primary alternate but I do have a collection of old digital point-and-shoots that I still use regularly."
Lynn: "I must be the odd one out here. My main alternates between a Leica IIIc, CL (film) and OM-4. Mostly with 21mm and 35mm lenses. Sometimes a 50mm. Alternate is one of the Fujifilm Instax models—the Mini 9, SQ6, and Wide 300, depending on the subject. I just love the Instax colors and rendering. The monochrome film is not too bad either."
Lesley: "My main camera is a Nikon D600 and the secondary one was a Nikon AW1 (mainly used for cycling and kayaking) until last winter when I bought a Nikon Z50 as a lightweight camera for a spring trip that never happened thanks to COVID-19. At first I was annoyed because I no longer 'needed' it, but now I often have it in the car, or in my purse, and I'm really glad that I bought it.
"I have used Nikons since the days of the Nikkormat and it's nice to have a camera I can still use with an older lens."
Chris Kleihege: "So far my team is looking so lonely...My main camera is a Walker Titan 4x5 and my point-and-shoot is a Polaroid that was my grandfather's. It's modified to hold 4x5 holders."
Joseph Brunjes: "My Chamonix trio of awesomeness (4x5, 11x14, 8x10)."
Mike replies: Chris, meet Joseph. Joseph, Chris.
Carl Coryell-Martin: "I'm about a month into a one camera, one lens, one year project with a Fuji X-Pro2 and 35mm ƒ/1.4. I purchased the 35mm lens back in January for a canceled trip to Singapore, and finally started bonding with it back in November."
Tim Wilson: "Huh. Three pages of comments, and my browser is finding zero instances of 'S1R,' as in Panasonic Lumix S1R, my current 'primary.' Would have thought there'd be others here who'd discovered this phenomenal camera and its system of fabulous lenses. Mine is responsible for banishment to a storage cabinet of (in order of declining pixel count) a Pentax 645D, a Nikon D810, and a Canon 5D mark II. Secondary: Lumix G9."
Mike replies: Here's a nice picture of it by way of consolation.
Lars: "Zeiss Ikon ZI + ZM Biogon 25mm ƒ/2.8 + Fuji Superia 400. I read your review here in 2008 and decided to buy that camera. I'm still using the same combo each and every week. Couldn't be happier!"
Mike replies: That's so cool.
Had a Nikon Z50 kit and just couldn't find "the love", so traded out to go back to my favorite camera--an Olympus E-M10 Mk 4 and iPhone 10XR.
Posted by: Rob White | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 03:46 PM
These days my main is my X-T4 (a side-switch less than an upgrade after my X-H1 was stolen). My X-T30 I keep as a backup, but like most of my previous backups it does not get used. If I want a camera in the car, I take the XT-4. The phone is my pocket camera, like a pocket knife.
I think my former Ricoh GR2 was one of my best alternative "backup" cameras, because it provided a very satisfying and different user experience. Professionals seem to want backups that are true safety systems in case of failure, but as a hobbyist I like backups that are creative alternatives.
Posted by: John Krumm | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 03:54 PM
Went over to the Dark Side with i-phone 11 Pro 3 lens for ultra wide, 35 photojourno, and "Normal" which can stretch for careful portrait is now primary. Alt is sort of left over digital tech and old school Nikon D200 with Nikon 180 D screw drive for Grandson sports and telephoto adventure. Still amazes me how no one pays attention when using the i-phone. Stealth in plain sight ! All the rest of my substantial equipment reserves found new homes and so far so good. Of course, eight years into retirement I approach things like photography equipment differently, and I have never been this old before, but so far-works for me!
Posted by: John Berger | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 03:58 PM
I had to count shots, my main camera is the OMD-EM5 MkII, but a very close second is my iPhone. However, I don't recall ever printing anything taken with the iPhone.
Posted by: Darryl | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 03:59 PM
My main camera is a Nikon D7500 and my secondary is a Fujifilm X70. I would like a Fujifilm X-H1 or X-T3 or 4 but the financial case for switching from my Nikon is not compelling enough. I can take beautiful images I like with my Nikon. Still those controls on the Fujifilm are a constant temptation.
Posted by: Keith Mitchell | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:03 PM
The camera that's always with me and does a surprisingly adequate job most of the time is the iPhone 11 Pro.
The only other digital camera I'm likely to be seen with is my trusty Fuji X-E2S.
I would like to spend more time with my favorite film cameras, but the inconvenience and cost of film and processing gets to me.
Posted by: Craig | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:03 PM
I still shoot with Leica cameras quite a bit, but I have to be honest and say that the exposure balance of the iPhone (and other modern smartphones) is pretty remarkably good. This beautifully exposed, and quickly made snapshot for example, was made with the iPhone... https://prometheus.med.utah.edu/~bwjones/2020/12/caturday-december-12-2020/
Posted by: BWJones | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:05 PM
Canon R5 and Olympus E-M1 III. Finally consolidating after two years of being all over the place.
Posted by: John | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:05 PM
Main:
Nikon D610 with, mainly, Sigma Art 24-70 2.8
Alternate:
Fuji X100s
Posted by: Marvin G. Van Drunen | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:09 PM
Canon EOS RP is my go-to camera. iPhone 7 probably as #2, plus a couple film cameras floating around (Canonet QL17, Leica CL).
Posted by: chicago8c | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:09 PM
Both are Olympus - the main is OMD EM1 MKIII (fantastic IS and other features). This is the one I use mostly when I’m out in the car. When I’m out on foot it’s the EM5 MKIII (a close third is the Panasonic LX100 MKIII - set always for black and white).
Posted by: Kristine Hinrichs | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:16 PM
My main camera these days is the Fuji XT3 with 18-135. That’s what I take with me when I go out for a walk. When I’m doing something a bit more professional, I take out my Fuji XH1 with 16-55 f/2.8. I also have an iPhone 11 Pro and a Sony RX-100Va but I find I don’t use them much.
Posted by: Richard Chomko | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:19 PM
The pandemic helped push me into medium format as a way to slow down and photograph subjects other than people/street. I went from a Fuji X-T3 to the GFX 50r. I still have my X100V.
Posted by: Dean I Forbes | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:22 PM
Fuji X100T ( +/- 90%), Pentax K10D ( +/- 10% ). Most of the time the Fuji is set to shoot B&W. I'm old, unimaginative and don't lift anything heavy any more.
Posted by: Peter | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:25 PM
Two faves? Impossible.
In terms of number of exposures: iPhone 11 pro.
Work for clients (now rare): Nikon D810.
Vacation cam: Sony a6300.
Most fun: Mamiya RB67 Pro S
Sorry, I can't stay within the lines.
Posted by: Bill Bresler | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:28 PM
Olympus EM-1 mark 1; LG5 phone
Posted by: Rusty | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:28 PM
I am using a Olympus OMD EM1 Mark3 and Nikon Z7, mostly the Olympus because the 12-100mm lens is so good and versatile and the image stabilization is magic.
Posted by: Frank B | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:29 PM
1. Olympus E-M1 Mk II, 2. Canon G5 X Mk II, 3. Olympus TG-6.
Posted by: Charlie Ewers | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:31 PM
My Samsung Galaxy Note 10 Plus would probably be my main, and my Fuji XE-3 is my alternate, if we go by usage.
It bothers me to say it that way, but honestly, it's actually more than good enough for most things if I am being objective, and I actually shoot a lot more since I always have it with me.
Subjectively, though, it's a different story, and I really wish I was the type to carry my XE-3 everywhere with me, but that got old fast.
Posted by: Aakin | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:32 PM
Z6 and X-Pro II for me, though throw in a D810, an X100 and a Google Pixel 3 for good measure. What I don't need to improve my photography is another camera; what I do need is more courage.
[Can you elaborate on that? Sounds like an interesting topic. --Mike]
Posted by: Patrick Dodds | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:33 PM
I own three cameras.
Main camera (60-70% usage) - Nikon D700
Alternate camera (telephoto usage) - Nikon D300 (APS-C sensor)
Not used - Nikon D70s, which still works but isn't worth the effort it would take to sell it; I plan to gift it (+ a lens or two) to my young niece in a year or two.
I don't own a camera phone, or any kind of mobile phone, because I am a cranky curmudgeon who already spends too much time staring at a computer screen to want to do it when I'm not working.
Posted by: ASW | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:34 PM
I take pictures with my iPhone, but I don't consider it to be photography. It's note-taking. It could also (possibly) be a snapshot, but I don't take many of those. When I think of Photography with a capital P, I think of a skill where I try to take the best image possible given a certain set of image-making requirements. That is, if I'm shooting street or documentary, I want a fast zoom lens of appropriate length, and a fast sensor (Z6.) If I were shooting landscape, everything changes and I'd go for a high-res sensor and I wouldn't worry so much about speed or the zoom (Z7.) If I want to send home a picture of a microwave macaroni from the supermarket, so my wife can tell me if it's the right one, I do it with my iPhone.
I still (god help me) take music lessons, and I learned that almost all musicians and songwriters have a cell phone, and when useful melodies pop into their heads, they punch up the recorder function and sing the melodies into it. It's a note (no pun intended). If they get serious about it (if the melody seems like it might work into something serious) they work out the song with a musical instrument and then record it on enthusiast or professional-level equipment. They *don't* try to sell the iPhone note.
To answer your question, my most-used cameras are a Panasonic GX8 (I have two) and a Nikon Z6. I also have a Nikon D800 which I may have converted to a monochrome.
Posted by: John Camp | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:37 PM
Main is a Lumix G9 and secondary is a Lumix G85.
Posted by: Weekes James | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:38 PM
According to Lightroom, my Nikon D780 gets the most usage. I'm averaging about 1,000 frames per month.
I'm averaging just 20 frames/month with my iPhone.
Posted by: William Schneider | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:39 PM
X-Pro 1 and my phone.
Posted by: Nigli | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:41 PM
When speed, a level of automation and decent/longer lenses are required it’s an Olympus OM-D E-M1ii. When enjoyment and immersion are the prime concern, a Leica M240. I choose the latter first most of the time unless there’s a reason not to.
I know you asked for two, but a halfway house between the above, and great with some smaller primes is the Pen F. This would also be my first choice for travel once that becomes a thing again.
The ridiculous thing is that really I don’t need more than camera, For years I managed perfectly well with ‘just’ a Pentax MX yet over time I’ve succumbed to buying more bodies; but I have at least learned to concentrate on a smaller number of decent quality lenses and know now that some focal lengths just don’t do it for me.
I like the look of the new upcoming Pentax too, but will do all within my power to resist it!
Posted by: Jon Schick | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:42 PM
Panasonic Lumix GX8 (my main system)
iPhone 12 Pro Max (always at hand)
Ricoh GXR (an old favorite)
Posted by: Sid | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:44 PM
Sony RX100 III and ProCamera (“raw” mode) on iPhone XS, which I bought mostly for the 50-ish mm equivalent lens.
Posted by: Nicholas Hartmann | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:44 PM
At work it's a Nikon Z6 with a D800 backup. For personal photos, it's a D850, and secondaries are a small point and shoot or an infrared-modded D300s.
Posted by: Daniel | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:44 PM
X-Pro3 first, toss up between XH1 or Nikon D4s/D3 second. If I had "work work" (low light live music venues) these days it would maybe be all Nikon. Personal is these days all Fuji unless I feel sorry for the lonely Nikons which are killer tools, just killer big.
Posted by: Neil Swanson | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:48 PM
Primary: Nikon 1 V1. Alternate: Sony A6000. Small and light is where it's at for me.
Posted by: Russ Scheid | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:50 PM
Last year is simple, my Panny GX9 bodies, @ 11,000+ far and away primary, ZS200, @ 2,500+ secondary.
This year is wildly different. The GX9s are still primary, or would be, if I got out of the house and yard. But most of my photography has been secondary. At home, I mess around with various lenses and techniques. Much of that is with FF, MF lenses, from ancient primes to contemporary soft focus.
Recent additions to my MF menagerie, such as Contax Zeiss 35-70/3.4, Olympus OM 600/5.6* and a couple of LenBabies have kept me entertained photographically while sheltered in place.
Oh yeah, LR reminds me of the mint FF Voightländer 10/5.6 I bought on spec. for when I can travel again. Spectacular hyper wide angle lens.
Those are shot on Sony a7 and A7 II bodies, that I count as one for this question. They win a couple of late year months, will probably win Dec.
Then there's the Oly E-M1 II, bought on big sale with the specific end of finding out how well their Pro Capture Mode might work for me, once I can travel again. It's up and down after Jul. But how to count it, as it takes multiple frames in Pro Capture Mode, in order to end up with one or two.? If a back ordered lens arrives, it will shoot up.
Also, the Sony RX10 IV, bought for a specific trip that had to be cancelled. It dominates Feb-Apr., as I get acclimated to it for the NY trip, then fades away, not to be seen after June.
So, the answer for most of this year, is "It depends."
* Successful bet on rehab. Bought cheap, opened up, reversed cemented doublet element corrected, sharp and clear!
Posted by: Moose | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:51 PM
I rarely use my iPhone for any photography at all, as I orient any work primarily toward large prints and tend to not post online.
It's a matter of using the right set of tools in a variety of circumstances.
Depending upon circumstances and needs, I primarily use Olympus Micro Four-Thirds cameras (E-M1 Mark II, Pen-F, and E-M5 Mark II) with a mix of Olympus, Panasonic and Sigma zoom and prime lenses for daily use. Unless it's super-cold, I carry a highly portable but decent travel kit in my vehicle.
Secondarily, when I prefer to work in a more focused and thought-out manner for maximum BW large-print quality, I often use a broad mix of recent and older large-format film (mostly 5x7) cameras and lenses from quite a variety of manufacturers now largely defunct.
Very occasionally, when the circumstances demand highest large-print quality that may exceed the reasonable capabilities of M4/3 gear but when color work and portability are important, I use a Pentax K-1 Mark II full-frame body and a range of Pentax Limited prime lenses.
Posted by: Joe Kashi | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:54 PM
It's all m4/3: Pana GX80 (85), as it's the ideal compromise between usability and weight. Pana G81 (85) when I need weather resistant; Pana GM5 when lightweight is a must. The possible lens combinations, from Pana 2.5/14 - the smallest - to PanaLeica 12-60 - the largest all-purpose lens, and wheather resistant - make every weight/size requirement possible.
Posted by: Thomas Wiegold | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:56 PM
#1 Sony A7 III with a Sony 24 - 240 zoom. Maybe not the sharpest lens, but I hate changing lenses and deciding what might be next. It's good for
17" x 22".
(A dozen or so have come and gone between this and #2.)
#2 are my 2 Nikkormats (well, one is a Nikormat) from Singapore and Kuala Lumpur in the early 70's. But neither has seen film in 20 years. So a distant second. They still work, tho. Even the light meters, tho they are sometimes a little jumpy.
Posted by: Jim Henry | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:56 PM
My main camera is a Nikon D800 and then comes my beloved Pentax 645N.
Posted by: Yuri Huta | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 04:59 PM
For digital my favorite is a Nikon D7100 and for film a Hasselblad 500c with a 50mm Distagon.
I use the camera on my el cheapo LG phone but it is more of a note pad than a camera for me.
Still feeling the love for an ancient Rollei 2.8f but honestly the D7100 is my main squeeze.
Only shoot film about once a year in a normal year and for 2020 I have been on the beach since retiring from any form of photography in July and going into hiding due to the Trump bug.
Posted by: Mike Plews | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:06 PM
Nikon D810 and iPhone X. I wish I could say it was my Nikon FM2N and Zero Image 612F, because I made a resolution almost a year ago to shoot all this film that's in the freezer, but COVID-19 has put that plan on hold.
Posted by: Mark Sirota | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:08 PM
Mine primary camera is a six-year-old d810 and, although i do not enjoy using it, i probably shoot an equal amount with a d5500. I find the mirror-box viewfinder odious in the latter but its light weight means it gets carried alot. The raw files from each are lovely to work with.
The iphone is a distant third for me, which finds utility use such as sending an image of my poor carpentry to my brother-in-law for advice.
Posted by: gary bliss | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:09 PM
I don't switch between cameras so much as between lenses which causes different cameras to be used. Rangefinder lenses get a Canon RP, zoom lenses get an Olympus EM-1 MkII, Tilt-Shift lenses get a Canon 5DSr. This list is in order of how much each gets used.
Posted by: F Hall | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:09 PM
I'm still using my Nikon D800 (serial ..00559) and I almost always add corrections to any shot. It does give you so much to work with. I live with a 20mm lens so I need the MP.
My other is a Pixel 3a phone. Only 12MP but the image processing gives me a file that I only have to crop. It's based on multiple exposures and other trickery, but I like it.
Now I'm waiting until I can get computational photography in the "big" formats... more fun to come!
Posted by: Bruce Bordner | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:10 PM
Work camera: 5D Mk II
Walk around camera: Nex 3
Yes, I should update. No, I can't right now.
Also, both give very good results even today.
Posted by: Albano | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:13 PM
1. Olympus E-M10 Mark II with a Vivitar 28mm f/2.5 (Canon FD mount)
2. iPhone X
I bought the Vivitar lens for cheap from eBay and I've really had fun with it. It replaced a Panasonic 20mm and has been practically glued to the camera the last few months.
Posted by: James | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:16 PM
I have all the Olympus prime lenses from 12mm to 45mm, and the Olympus Pen F body, which I cannot get any result out of that I like, and cannot figure out how to set: I've given up trying! So, it's all down to my old Panasonic G3 with a couple of Panny lenses, and then either my Mamiya RB 67, or my Minolta Autocord!
Posted by: Crabby Umbo | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:23 PM
I keep an Olympus e-m10 (original), Panasonic gf2, and a Sony RX100 iii in the truck, so I always have something when I leave the house. I carry a Sony a6000 and a6400 when I go out with the intent of making photos. And an old Canon dslr for airshows.
Haven't used the film cameras in awhile. I need an excuse to use the Pentax 645.
Posted by: Michael Shwarts | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:24 PM
Nikon D610 and Rolleiflex 3.5f.
Posted by: Kenneth Wajda | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:25 PM
I too trade off — between a Panasonic GX9 with 12-35mm and a new Canon EOS R6 with 24-105mm. Both 20 megapixels. GX9 for everyday people and posting. R6 for progressing on my fine art work. Got an iPhone 11 Pro too, but make only about a dozen exposures on it each month.
Posted by: Peter | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:25 PM
I rotate thru several Fujifilm cameras, the X-Pro2, X-T2 and X-E3. The two higher end cameras get selected on a whim, sometimes rangefinder-ish or SLR-ish, depending on my mood.
However, I'm surprised how often the camera in my hand is the tiny X-E3. It is perfect with any of the "Fujicrons" (I have all 4, 16mm to 50mm) and can deliver the exact image quality of the two "Pro" models at a fraction of the size, weight and cost.
FWIW... I recently took out my Nikon DSLR and couldn't believe that I could tolerate that bulk and weight for all these years. Besides the size issue, the lack of the WYSIWYG finder necessitated more bracketing and chimping. I was happy to get back to the mirrorless Fujis.
Posted by: Albert Smith | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:28 PM
My primary camera is my Lumix G9, usually with the GX Vario 12-35mm f/2.8 (1st version), which I consider to be my "35mm" camera. Second camera is a Sony a7R II, which I consider to be my "medium format" camera. I use a variety of vintage manual focus lenses with this one, mostly Canon FD and Pentax M42. I do have the Zeiss 24-70mm f/4 lens for the Sony, but I don't like it much. Terrible bokeh. I really do see these cameras as different cameras for different uses and results. Like them both, but for different photos.
Posted by: Hermon Joyner | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:30 PM
Primary is a Nikon D810 and the close second is a pair of Fuji X-E1s.
Posted by: Daniel Meyers | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:32 PM
My main camera for the last 2-3 years has been a Canon EOS M-3. My secondary camera is an Olympus TG-6. My only complaints on the M-3 are the lack of an articulated screen (it just flips, not helpful in portrait format) and no having a wide to tele zoom. I have an 18-55 and a 55-200, both good lenses, but having to switch is a pain. They came out with an 18-150 later but I can't justify the expense just to avoid swapping lenses. The TG-6 is less versatile but it will even fit in a shirt pocket, smaller than my phone, and it shoots raw images.
Posted by: James Bullard | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:42 PM
Olympus E-M1 Mk II (normal use), E-M1 full-spectrum converted (used for UV and IR). (The E-M1 Mk II is the first digital camera that feels as good as the Contax 139Q film camera I used for many years before switching to digital.)
Posted by: Pedro J. Aphalo | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:45 PM
Leica M7 and 35mm Summicron
Leica MP and Summicron 50
Since the beginning of the pandemic, I have been using mostly my analog film cameras. I usually process and scan the Tri-X at home. It takes time but since assignments have been scarce... And I go this way because I do like the appearance of print the prints.
Posted by: Pierre Charbonneau | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:46 PM
Fuji GSW690 aka Texas Leica for B&W. Camera #2 Fuji X-Pro2 which I always carry on my daily bike rides. Film camera tends to be a little more formal, digital more spontaneous. I relegate iPhone to utility note taking—I still cling to a print as ultimate expression of an image.
Posted by: Eric Peterson | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:47 PM
An X100F and a D750, in a shoulder bag every time I leave the apartment. The X100F satisfies the need for a 35mm (which is 'home'). The D750 usually has a 24-120/4 mounted to mop up anything within reason, and a 50/1.8 in the bag for emergencies when the X100F runs out of light. I also have a weekly in-home project that's shot with the D750 and a 35/1.8.
An intrinsically linked question is of course:
"What are you shooting?" (subjects, projects, ...)
With international and even national travel varying between impossible and irresponsible (some might say immoral), many sources of personal inspiration are cut off. My partner and I have two full-time-plus (and non-photographic) jobs between us - and a young toddler to look after. Free time is in short supply, even after childcare re-opened in the summer. Even a change of daily scenery can be rare and must be both planned and savoured.
With all this, photography has re-focused* on capturing small moments in the daily and weekly routine, changes in seasons, and on watching our son grow up. It's no less important, but I'm still left longing for a fantastical future where 'all this' has somehow magically been returned to 'normal'. The above gear covers these situations admirably - even the 24-120/4, which as my only zoom lens I find doesn't inspire good composition and usually only gets 2-3 outings a year. However, there's something very unsatisfying about being able to perfectly predict the kind of shots you're going to make for weeks ahead.
(Back to indulgent gear talk briefly: Not getting any love at the moment are a pair of X-T1's and a raft of very lovely F-mount and X-mount primes. Long-term - when there are projects to shoot again and new scenes outside my immediate neighbourhood - I plan to combine both systems into a much more humble Z-mount collection. The X100F is not going anywhere, of course...)
* No pun intended
Posted by: Dan Farmer | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:48 PM
Most days I'm shooting with a Panasonic GX-8. Paired with a 12-60 or 14-140 it's been a perfect walk around camera. The file sizes are right sized as well.
Posted by: rdteasley | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:52 PM
Olympus E-M1 Mark II, and an Olympus Pen D2. Though, being mostly a portrait and candid guy I haven't done a lot with either the back half of this year...
Posted by: Zed Martinez | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:54 PM
The now almost ancient Pentax K-3 is my main workhorse, and the alternate is the tiny Panasonic GM1. Huh. So it seems I stopped buying camera bodies in 2013. Perhaps I should toddle off and find something else... oooh LENSES!!
(Don't use my phone camera much because it's a Motorola, so the camera is horrid and slow, but a good 5 years newer than the ILCs above!)
Posted by: MarkB | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:56 PM
For me this virus year:
1. Most used: my Hasselblad 501CM with three lenses.
2. Next most used: a Leica M2 for which this year I had GAS and bought a 25mm Voigtlander lens and a 1950s 90mm Elmar. This equipment is so compact and easy to carry.
Posted by: Kodachromeguy | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:58 PM
FX: Nikon Z6 and an D850
120: Noblex PRO 6/150UX and a Mottweiler P.90
Sheet: Whole Plate Chamonix
Try very hard to get out and use at least 2 of the above cameras several times a week, but as winter comes to New England, the Chamonix sees very little use, and my 2 main cameras become the Noblex and the Z6.
Posted by: Gregory | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 05:59 PM
For the last three months I have been shooting with a Contax G1. I wanted this camera when it came out in 1994, but its price of US$2,210 (equivalent to $3,700 in 2020) with the 45 mm Planar lens was beyond my means. Now you can get that kit for $600, in pristine condition.
The Zeiss lenses for the G-mount are wonderful. I have them all except for the zoom and the Hologon. The crown jewel is the 21mm Biogon, which I use with a Voigtlander brightline finder. I also treasure the 35mm Sonnar f/2.
Posted by: Allan Ostling | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:00 PM
E-M1 and E-M5m2. I still use an XZ-1 p&s now and then, can't stand using the iPhone, even to talk or text, never mind taking pics with it.
Posted by: Robert Roaldi | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:02 PM
Samsung S20 (I like to do panoramas) and Lumix GX1 with the 20mm. The Lumix is beat and I want to update it with a newer one with a viewfinder.
Posted by: marko | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:02 PM
OMD E-M1 Mark II and Pen-F.
Posted by: Richard Nugent | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:03 PM
samsung a51
Posted by: Peter Lindner | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:03 PM
Fujifilm X-T3 is my primary and backup. I used to shoot with a Canon 5dmk3 but gave all that up for Fuji’s X series and I’ve never looked back.
Posted by: Howard Fuhr | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:10 PM
That is a difficult question for me too. Lately, it seems I have two main cameras. The first is a Lumix G9 that ultimately will likely become my main-main camera, now mostly used for foothills hikes with an Oly 12-40 or Pany 35-100, and birding with its 100-400. But I also have become increasingly fond of a used Sony a7Rii recently obtained to use with a selection of my old EF fixed-focus lenses used for my wanders about. My second camera is and will continue to be my Lumix GX8 with three zooms for air travel, assuming that will happen again for me sometime.
Posted by: Mike Marcus | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:10 PM
Ebony SV57 and Nikon D810.
Posted by: Sal Santamaura | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:11 PM
#1 Sony A7rIV #2 Panasonic GX9
Posted by: Howard Brunner | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:13 PM
X Pro 3 and X 100V
Posted by: Steve | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:17 PM
Olympus E-M10 and Canon G5X. The Olympus has a full stable of lenses and gear packed in a couple bags and the Canon resides in my car's glove box. You can guess which one I wind up shooting with more often...
Posted by: Stewart Epstein | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:25 PM
Nikon Z6 and iPhone 11 Pro Max. I got old and weak and high end German rangefinders are no longer in my picture.
Posted by: ROBERT BARON | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:28 PM
A couple of Panasonic GX8s and an older RX100.
I have been worried that my equipment was falling behind the state-of-the-art so last week I rented a Sony a7IV and an a7c. All I achieved was in being reminded of why I originally embraced m4/3. Yes, the new equipment is more capable. But no, they don't make my pictures better.
I am a firm believer in first renting any proposed camera purchase. I would never have found the GX8 if I had not done so.
Posted by: Wes Cosand | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:28 PM
Main: Leica M3; Primary Alternate: iPhone 11 Pro; Secondary Alternate: FujiFilm X-Pro2 (can't handle bright light in the frame).
Posted by: David | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:38 PM
Panasonic GH5, Nikon F. The analog choice changes over time. Cycles between Hasselblad, 4x5 and 35mm (various bodies).
Posted by: Eric Rose | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:40 PM
8x10 and 4x5, and yes, I started my photography gear with the Olympus 4T and the Leica M7 because I want the smallest highest quality cameras. Ah well...
Posted by: Richard Man | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:43 PM
Still with my OMD EM-5. The original in the long line. And I have my city camera, a GRll. I say city camera because I bought it to walk around Manhattan with my wife and take street pictures.
It didn’t pan out that way, health problems ensued, now they’re both used for pictures of the grandkids.
Hopefully in a year or so, I can be back to walking city streets and generally moving around more.
Just a quick note about the ‘pool table’ post, I thoroughly enjoyed it even though I care nothing about pool! Go figure!!
Fred
Posted by: Fred Haynes | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:45 PM
Nikon D7500 + 80-400 lens for main, usually a D810 + 24-120 lens for everything else, though I occasionally switch out the D810 in favor of my third camera, a D750, when I don't want such huge files.
Posted by: Ken | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:48 PM
Whenever possible:
1. Nikon D750 with a reasonable number of lenses.
If I have to hike/bike/ski, then option 2 comes into play.
2. Sony RX10 with the original 24-200mm ƒ/2.8 lens.
Posted by: DavidB | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:50 PM
A9 for wildlife and other moving objects, and A7r4 for everything else. Although I own, and am very fond of an X-T3 as well, it just doesn't get as much love as the Sony's for some reason.
Posted by: Ed Donnelly | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:53 PM
Pentax K-1 when it's a "photograph." iPhone 7 otherwise. For film, Pentax LX.
Posted by: John Shriver | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:56 PM
Main camera: Ricoh GR-II & Alternate: Pentax K5/HD PENTAX-DA 20-40mm Limited. I increasingly prefer a light and small good camera that can always go in one pocket of my bermudas.
In the last few months I have also enjoyed an old Rolleiflex T, but this is from another era or world.
Posted by: Paulo Videiro | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:56 PM
I have quite a bit of Nikon gear, but have been shooting Olympus m4/3 for the last couple of years. I love the magical image stabilization, the quality of the lenses and the capability of the cameras. I took advantage of the pre-Christmas sales to upgrade from my E-M5s (Mks 1 & 2) to E-M1s (Mk2 & X).
I would say the E-M1X is my main camera. I'm into birds these days and the larger camera balances the 300mm f/4 lens very well. The E-M1.2 is the auxiliary, usually tucked away close with a shorter lens.
Even if the new owners of the Olympus camera division fail to come up with compelling new products, these bodies should last me several years.
I'm well aware of the "drawbacks" of the small m4/3 sensor -- noise in low light, depth of field issues, etc. But in practical use I haven't been bothered much by them. The image stabilization has certainly gotten me far more images than the "drawbacks" have lost.
Posted by: Rick Popham | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:57 PM
Bought an RX-100 with a 24-70 (equivalent) zoom for the compactness and excellent image quality. Originally purchased for scuba diving, I soon learned underwater housings cost more than the camera.
Posted by: K4kafka | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 06:58 PM
After an extended flirtation with Fuji I am back to Nikon shooting mostly with the Z7 or 6. They just are easy to use and give me unfussy results that I don't have to mess with too much
Posted by: John Dahlstet | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:00 PM
main camera: Pentax K-3
alternate: Fuji X-T2
I always have either one with me... I rarely use my phone's camera...
Posted by: Dave Lynagh | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:01 PM
Three main cameras for me, depending on shooting circumstances and desired workflow. Leica M10 for compact carry, both color and b/w conversions. Original M Monochrom (M9 platform) for when I want to think think and see exclusively b&w, without color distraction (no need to explain to YOU). And Leica SL2 as jack-of-all-trades system using wider/longer lenses, zooms, full weather sealing and modern features (IBIS, AF, focus aids, etc). The problem since March has been extremely curtailed shooting, with all cameras, due to the pandemic.
Posted by: Jeff | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:04 PM
It's all Nikon for my shooting.
For wildlife, both macro and telephoto: D500
For landscapes, skyscapes, and astro: D850
For concerts (mostly jazz and mostly indoor), action sports (motocross and track racing), and general "street shooting" at night: D5
For the casual, unplanned "snap-shooting" I used to use my iPhone for: Z50 with its 2 kit lenses
If I happen to be engaged in one of the above pursuits, and an opportunity from one of the other pursuits presents itself, I use whatever I'm using.
-gkf-
Posted by: GKFroehlich | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:05 PM
Leica M240, just got it and now I can get back into seeing an image like your supposed to.
Bill
Posted by: William A Giokas | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:10 PM
Main: Panasonic GX8
Primary alternate: my other Panasonic GX8
Posted by: Dave Levingston | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:11 PM
Leica M2-R & 50mm DR Summicron; perfect setup for me. I want no other camera or lens (except more M2s and DR Summicrons).
Backup: Leica iiif & 50mm Summar
Posted by: Sjones | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:18 PM
OMD EM5 and EPL6 mostly. Secondly, GRD and DP2M.
Posted by: Ilkka | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:20 PM
I mainly shoot with a Nikon D700 and a Fuji X-Pro2.
I love the look of the files from the 12mp Nikons, especially B&W. Who cares how old the cameras are, they still work and they are still outstanding. I also love the look of Nikkor lenses--old and new. The Fuji replaces the Leica I used in the past and improves on its performance and results. The Fuji lenses have a look that surpasses what I got with Leitz lenses. It's the best of all possible worlds for me.
Posted by: Dogman | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:23 PM
Pentax KP -- a pair of them -- for No. 1; and a Canon 7Dm2 for No. 2, when I need to do fast-focusing long lens work.
Posted by: Bob Keefer | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:24 PM
I sprung for a Z5 and the outstanding 85 mm f/1.8 and it's become my primary. X-T2 is the secondary. I wanted IBIS but wasn't ready to go to a fully articulating screen so I was glad when it was announced.
Posted by: schralp | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:37 PM
Can't really break it down to just two (sad, really).
Pentax K-1 when the number of eyelashes counts.
Leica M9 with a variety of lenses for travel.
Olympus OM-D M1 for travel.
Fuji XPro-1 (what I actually used yesterday because the Olympus's battery was dead and I couldn't find my Olympus bag).
When I travel, I will often take cameras that can work together. For instance, the OM-D takes every lens I own, just about, with an adapter. So it works well with the Leica as a back up, or with the Pentax.
One camera/one lens: Leica M9 and 35/2.
Light travel: Olympus OM-D EM-1 and Olympus Pen.
Heavy travel: Pentax and Olympus or Leica and Olympus.
Or, "Waiter, I'll have a main dish of decisional paralysis with a side of man-I-just-don't know."
I am about a generation and a half behind the camera innovation curve, as usual. And I now have too many systems to even consider a single "upgrade path".
Maybe I should answer with what I had in my hands the last two weekends: A Nikon D3 with a Leica R 90/2.8 (Leitax adapted mount), the Fuji XPro-1 with a Zeiss 35 Biogon (M mount to Fuji adapter), and the Leica M9 with a Zeiss 25/2.8. Crazy. hunh? I have been pretty happy with the results, though.
Posted by: Benjamin Marks | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:38 PM
90%+ is my D7100 almost exclusively with my 45/2.8P lens. The rest is my phone when I don't have my real camera along.
I keep thinking about the new Z's or a D750 but DX suits me well enough and I really enjoy what I get from the combination. I find I don't want a different camera enough to make the budget hoops that I'd have to make.
Posted by: William A Lewis | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:39 PM
My most frequently used camera is my IPhone SE as it is always with me. It is the camera that is most likely capture the unexpected image. When I am looking for potential images, I take my X-T4. Of the many cameras I have owned, it is the most pleasurable to use.
Posted by: David Elesh | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:39 PM
Fuji GFX 50R + Toyo VX23D.
I also have a Fuji X-T2, which I only use for taking pictures of things I'm selling. I should use it more. It's still a great camera.
Posted by: Rob der Loe | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:43 PM
I shoot primarily with a Pentax K-1 with a Pentax 50mm Macro lens followed by a 35mm f2. My secondary camera is SonyRX100 with a one-inch sensor. I use them both for landscape photography.
Posted by: Richard Skoonberg | Monday, 14 December 2020 at 07:44 PM