Good Gear
Very selected features on the hardware, software and extra wares that help me get the job done.
LUMIX G9II for Birds
Lets walk through a host of features built into LUMIX G9II that might help you to take better bird photos. We'll go through burst modes, pre-shutters, autofocus setups, and a few extra treats. There’s even a downloadable camera setup to help you get started and use the same settings that I have.
Sigma 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN ART
I’ve had a chance to shoot with the new Sigma 28-105mm F2.8 DG DN Art over recent weeks, and explore the light and shadows on Melbourne's streets. This is not a one-size-fits-all lens, but a very professional mid-range zoom that delivers a bright and contrasty image.
Custom Setup for the LUMIX S9
Download my custom setup for the LUMIX S9, along with a very full range of custom configurations directly available through the mode dial. Updated in October 2024 for Firmware V1.2.
LUMIX S9 Review
Welcome to the LUMIX S9, the new full-frame mirrorless made by stuffing the inner workings of an S5II into a tiny little camera body. Panasonic didn’t skimp on features, and even added a few new ones. Let’s take a quick look at why the new LUMIX S9 is such a great addition to the L-mount collection, and why I think it’s a tonne of fun.
Sigma 14mm F1.4 Field Review
This is my new favourite lens for the Arctic. It’s not just for stars, and not just auroras. It’s also a creative lens choice when you want to do something a little bit different with landscape photography.
S-E100 F2.8 Macro for L-Mount
The S-E100 F2.8 Macro lens for L-Mount has just been released by LUMIX, and it’s very different to anything I’ve used on a mirrorless system before. It’s a super compact lens for super small subjects, but delivers super-sized performance and in particular the Autofocus is on a whole other level.
Micro Four Thirds meets Bokeh
What is the secret to getting maximum bokeh out of the Micro Four Thirds format? or any other MFT camera? Lets step deep into the beauty of bokeh and look at just how much of a full-frame look you can squeeze out of smaller sensors.
Leica Summicron-SL 50mm f/2 ASPH
Another great fast 50mm prime for the L-mount, this time with a seriously impressive build quality that we have come to expect from Leica.
Custom Settings for the LUMIX G9II
I've prepared an outline of my custom setup for the LUMIX G9II, plus a copy of my settings ready to download to your camera and customise for your own needs. A great way to get started and try some of the various features built into this amazing little MFT body.
Samsung In The Bin
I don't usually post negative reviews, but Samsung can get in the bin. They are the latest tech company to decide that treating their customers with respect is no longer a necessary part of their business model. I'm pushing back on the bollocks.
SD Cards Explained
Shopping for an SD card is frustratingly hard, with so many brands, standards and price points to navigate through. Especially when speed is a necessity rather than a luxury. It's also possible that the best value SD card is a MicroSD card, if you have the right adaptor.
The Worlds Worst Menu System
I'm astounded that Sony have released a camera that is so darned good, yet crippled by a user interface so completely awful. The ZV-E1 is hard enough for a seasoned professional to tame, but a potential road block to be avoided for anyone just starting their journey into photography.
Tamron 35-150mm F/2-2.8 Di III VXD
I travelled in the Himalayas for a few months in late 2023 with this lovely lens. If you're interested in more than just tech specs, and what it's like to work with this lens for an extended time then you've come to the right place.
20mm is the new 24mm
20mm is now far more common than ever for both primes and zooms, but is 18mm the better option for photographers? And why even bother with 24mm? When shooting wider than wide does it make a difference to buy an extra few mm of perspective?
Tamron Got It Covered
The Tamron 20-40mm F2.8 and 35-150mm F2-2.8 narrow the gap between primes and zoom. I didn't think I'd like these new lenses from Tamron so much, but the fact is every time I took them out to shoot I ended up with a tonne of great images. That’s a little bit annoying for a prime lens snob like myself.
Leica SL2-S
The SL2-S is a very modern yet practical 24MP camera that enjoys a touch of Leica flare. As my first chance to shoot with a Leica body in over a decade, this one left a very positive impression.
My Favie Magnetic Filter
From the studio to the harsh sunlight of Australia's North-West, I dragged my little pouch of magnetic ND filters around the country to find out which system works best. And found myself a new best friend in OKKO.
Coman Hussar TSC10A20
Teeny tiny super compact mini-tripod for table top mounting, yet fully featured and super strong. Just 420g but packed with full articulation and very sturdy design. Lots of hidden features make this a favie for me.
