We live in a time of great innovation and variety in digital photography. I’m a fan of gear, I just love it. I have 2 systems; Fujifilm XF and the Fujifilm GFX. They are both great systems, but, through experience of using both at events, I have come to the conclusion size and weight make a big difference to my workflow.
Simply put, the size and weight of the medium format Fujifilm GFX is getting in the way of the type of event photography of want to explore and develop. I want to be freed from carrying the bulk and size of large bodies and lenses for a full day. I want my camera and lens combo to be smaller, lighter and faster. I want a system that not only makes me a more nimble and responsive photographer, but, also a less intimidating photographer. I honestly believe big camera and lens combos cameras can create a barrier between the photographer and subject. Ideally I’d like not to be noticed at an event, maybe even look like one of the guests. If someone looks at my camera, I’d rather think they thought it looked cool, retro and desirable, (thanks to Fujifilm design aesthetic) as opposed to massive and intrusive. If they can see me coming, I might miss the genuine moment, candid gold of real emotion and connection between subjects.
Head to head my GFX 50sii and X-T5 with 23mm F2 size comparioson. No prizes for guessing which one weighs more and is more discrete.
I recently volunteered my time at Zen hair salon for a charity event raising money in support of bowel cancer. All I used was a Fuji XT5 and 23mm F2, a combined weight of 751gm. It was liberating. I could easily hold the camera with one hand, and with great freedom move the camera around low or high to explore more interesting angles and compositions. The working distance I had to subjects during the fundraiser was tight. So in this instance a small camera didn’t cause much if any distraction and the 23mm focal length (35mm FF equiv.) gave context to the subjects environment.
After the session, I felt fresh as a daisy and the shear smallness of the kit really did get me thinking more about more interesting angles. In essence I think this approach will make me a better event photographer.
I still love my GFX and it has it’s place in portraiture, landscape and commercial jobs. But I’d much prefer to rock a small camera/lens combo for weddings and events.
Below are pics of the team from Zen and fellow fundraisers all embracing a shaved head for bowel cancer. There is some wonderful energy in many of these images. A great event and cause all round.
