Batis-simo!

I decided to go for a dedicated wide-angle lens to go with the full frame setup after trying out the wide-angle Fujinon zoom on my X-pro 2. There were not many choices to go with unless I go for Leica glass and manual focus them. The alternative would be to go with the Zeiss range with auto-focus built in.

I went with the Zeiss and picked up the Batis 18mm. Although the Fuji could go wider, I felt that 18mm was wide enough. It gave me a different perspective, allowing me to capture the scene in its entirety. I could also crop the photos in post, and the 42 MP coming out from my Alpha 7R mark II gave plenty of leeway.

I only managed to take the new setup out for a couple of outings due to my work schedule. But so far I had been impressed. The distortion were definitely there, but it added to the charm of this particular combination. The chromatic aberration was something to watch out for but it could be easily corrected using Aperture later.

I found the snaps to be rich and contrasty. Sometime to get the right frame I had to go uncomfortably close to the subject. But that was just part of the fun!

The Batis lens focussing speed was quick and the photos appeared sharper when I stop it down to f4. That was not an issue when you were outdoors in plenty of light .... Would definitely be posting more of this combination in the future especially in indoors setting, capturing the Raya decorations. Combine this with the a 35mm prime attached to the X-Pro would make a for a great day out ....

Labour Day Walk

Last weekend I was in Kota Kinabalu. And with the gorgeous weather we had yesterday, I just couldn't resist taking my camera out. I had to do some banking and pay some bills as well. So, it was a good enough excuse.

The after was just as gorgeous although Anita didn't let me go into town with the anti-GST rally going on around KLCC. Most of my friends were there, with their camera on tow. Some excellent photos to be had.

Instead we had a nice family outing.

But for now, let just stick with the photos. A couple of theme. Mother's Day was just around the corner and some cute paper flowers were on display at the Pavilion main entrance.

Across the road, there was also a small space right into of Fahrenheit with some cute colourful caricuture from a paint company. Nicely done...

Enjoying the Cron

Over the last few weeks, I have added a new set up to my camera gear. I've gone full frame and added a Leica lens - the Summicron-M 1:2/50 - to my arsenal. At a very good price.

Over the last couple of days, I've managed to pack up early from work and take the gear for a spin, enjoying the great weather to boot.

I was still trying to get used to the new set up. Certainly it was a departure to my usual habit of picture taking. Having to master some new technique. Hopefully soon it would be ingrained into my muscle memory. At the moment, I still had to stop to manual focus on my subjects and often the moment would have passed by the time I press the shutter trigger. Now, I have to anticipate the moments before it happens. I wasn't able to ninja around unnoticed with my smaller compact.

More about the gear on a later entry. For the moment, still getting to know the setup ....