I have 4 cameras available and in use right now.
This image was captured with the Sigma DP1. It’s compact and provides stunning images from its Foveon sensor. Unfortunately, it is crippled by slow RAW write times so that images can’t be captured any more often than every 2 seconds or so. It takes 5 or 6 seconds after capture to adjust shooting parameters. Fortunately, autofocus and exposure are very well tuned, so most images are technically acceptable. Its useful for slow, deliberative shooting or for single grabbed shots. It has a fixed focal length lens that is pretty wide, making it useful when one is in the scene.
My second most used camera is the Nikon D300. It’s a relatively heavy DSLR with really good low light capability. It’s got all of the adjustability that comes with modern automation and interchangable lenses. I’ve got a good selection of lenses, so it’s a matter of bringing both the big camera and the lens selection. It’s worth transporting all of that camera and glass if I’m expecting to be shooting a situation where it’s needed: low light, changing light or changing focal length needs.
Next is my film camera, the Lecia M6ttl. In the last two years, I’ve only used it for my urban photography project, using C41 Black and White negative film through it. It’s my best way of getting a very specific look which at this point is a legacy materials one. It will probably remain a specific purpose project camera.
FInally, there’s my Nikon D80, a smaller, lighter DSLR. With the 24mm f/2.8 or the 50mm f/1.8 primes, its a great image maker. The problem is that I don’t agree with its idea of exposure in evaluative mode. That means that unless I use spot metering, I get too many poorly exposed shots. The D300 with active D-Lighting generally interprets the scene correctly. I’ve gone out with the D80 on a few occasions where I wanted something light but with some flexibility, like macro capability with the 105mm f/2.8 VR. I’ll shoot somewhat deliberately though, using spot metering. So it sits between the DP1- small but inflexible and the D300, the big guns and able to do anything.
