Hey, how’s the new year going?
I’m very happy to be typing this newsletter from the new kitchen table where I have all that I like and need for some creative writing and sketching: big window with tons of natural light, good coffee, snacks and a decent speaker to play some heavy tunes.
As I mentioned on my last newsletter, I’d like to share a few thoughts and photos that I’ve been doing with a new piece of gear that I got recently. If you know me, you know that I’m not a big fan of changing gear like underwear; instead, I tend to stick with what works for me based in quality and comfort. In the end, gear is just a tool and as such, it has to serve its purpose as effectively and efficiently as possible, right?
For years I’ve been looking for a second shooter camera for personal, documentary, behind the scenes, and travel projects. It has to be tough, simple to use, versatile and lightweight above all, and preferrably with an epic fixed lens.
So for the price of a kidney and a testicle, I got myself a Leica Q3!
It wasn’t love at first sight though, the first few weeks using it made me have second thoughts about it but once I put it under pressure and did a couple of jobs with it and took it out for a couple of morning walks under challenging light, the love curve raised dramatically:
The camera ticks all the boxes mentioned above, it’s not perfect, but it’s a beast in resolution and image quality and it’s built like a tank!
I love how the system is designed to slow you down while photographing. It’s not for the aimlessly hungry shooter or the film simulation geek; it’s intended for the dedicated image maker. The design me fall in love with the process of creating a photograph and that’s what I’m after when I’m not on a busy commercial environment.
It won’t not make my photos any better but it will help me be a better photographer and that’s what a tool is for.
So far, it’s been one hell of a ride since I started this newsletter, meeting incredible people every corner of the world is amazing, and I’m incredibly grateful for your support. Definitely I’d like more of that this year.
A fine example is getting featured in
international photography publication Darkrooms Magazine along many talented photographers:Also, helping fellow photographers getting inspiration for their work is a feeling that millions of subscribers and subscriptions can’t replace.
gave a shout out to Xavografica on his first post of the year, thank you my friend, I can’ wait to see how you print your work!Work for Issue 2 of the printed Zine has begun so stick around for any news. In the meantime, ge a copy of Issue ONE if you haven’t yet:
I’d love to hear more about how the Leica slows you down. Slowing down is something I (and others?) could use. Wondering if there is anything I can take away from how the Leica system is setup and use in my going about the world.
Beautiful words and pictures as always Xavi. I especially like the ones from the boat. The light and the colours you have captured are exquisite. Thank you :)