Fuji Don't... blink... (X-M1 & 27mm)

[Lightmancer]

Look, it's not my fault, okay? I'm not allowed to drive at the moment, due to having had a minor op. Thus I am confined to a daily constitutional around Sunny Frimley and it's environs. Trouble is, they are not particularly photogenic environs. I am therefore finding myself lurking around the cemetery at St Peter's Church; it is about the only place worth exploring in detail, hence the sudden superfluity of angels and Celtic crosses.

My confinement has coincided with the re-acquisition of a Fuji X-M1. I had one in the past, when I had my X-E1, as a backup to same, but when I acquired my X-T1 and X-Pro1 it seemed a trifle extravagant. Well, one came up at a good price, and I could actually see the benefit of having a smaller X-mount body in the stable, so I snaffled it and have glued my 27mm to the front. This has proven to be an excellent rehabilitation choice (my op was on my right shoulder; I need to exercise but not stress it) - it is small, lightweight and, with optional grip and cheapo thumbs-up clone attached, quite good in the handling department. The 27mm, which I have had for a while now, is no speed demon itself and the close focus leaves a lot to be desired, but I can see that once I am back to my fully irritating self again I shall be able to continue to use the combination as a bit of a demon set-up for street.

Anyway, in the interim I have been amusing myself, shooting stuff that can't move faster than I can. I hope you enjoy:

Celtic Cross 3 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Celtic Cross 2 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Weeping Angel 4 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Weeping Angel 2 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Weeping Angel 6 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Madonna 1 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

Weeping Angel 1 par Lightmancer, on ipernity

 

[Biro]

Great work, Bill. Your shoulder doesn't seem to be having a negative impact on your technique or creativity. BTW, how is working with the X-M1's rear LCD in daylight? I ask this of many XM1/X-A1 users. I have an unused 27mm pancake myself and keep thinking this might be a cheap way to put it to use.

 

[entropic remnants]

Looks like you had some fun! You need it in your current state, lol.

I find going out with one camera and one prime once in a while very stimulating. Hope you find some more challenges around you.

And I hope you heal quickly!

 

[Phoenix]

I don't think the op or the environs has hindered you at all mate.

 

[Lightmancer]

Thanks very much chaps - y'see this is what happens when I have time on my hands...

@Biro - I'm really not a fan of rear screens; I'm a VF man, either E- or preferably O- but I have to say that with both this and my GR, the rear screen is acceptable. Both are quite contrasty to start with, but it is worth noting that the X-M1 allows you to boost brightness in really glary conditions. I haven't had to do that yet and I can't see that I would under most circumstances.

That 27 is a lovely, under-rated lens and the X-M1 is a great "end cap" for it. One thing I realised/discovered today is that if you are set to manual focus, you can turn the camera off, drop it in your bag, knock it about a bit then get it out, turn it on and focus distance has not changed. This is one area in which fly-by-wire has an advantage over good ole' manual!

 

[Biro]

Thanks very much chaps - y'see this is what happens when I have time on my hands...

@Biro - I'm really not a fan of rear screens; I'm a VF man, either E- or preferably O- but I have to say that with both this and my GR, the rear screen is acceptable. Both are quite contrasty to start with, but it is worth noting that the X-M1 allows you to boost brightness in really glary conditions. I haven't had to do that yet and I can't see that I would under most circumstances.

That 27 is a lovely, under-rated lens and the X-M1 is a great "end cap" for it. One thing I realised/discovered today is that if you are set to manual focus, you can turn the camera off, drop it in your bag, knock it about a bit then get it out, turn it on and focus distance has not changed. This is one area in which fly-by-wire has an advantage over good ole' manual!

Thanks Bill. I think I'm going to keep my eye out for a great deal on the XM1 or XA1. BTW, my wife broke her shoulder over the weekend. She'll live but we're really hoping she'll be able to skip surgery. The emergency room doctor at the hospital said it looks like a clean break and the actual socket seems fine. She'll likely find out for sure from the orthopedist today.

 

[BBW]

Heal quickly, Bill! I'm trying to think of a good line about adversity bringing out creativity, but I think your photos speak for themselves. Beautiful in B&W!

 

[Lightmancer]

Steve, that's awfui. I do feel for her. Mine was not trauma-related, just wear and tear. I have to say the surgery I had was actually really well done, quick and neat. My own recovery has only been marred by being doped up on a cocktail of anti-inflammatories and pain-killers that don't agree with me! The best to your wife for a speedy recovery.

Thanks Bill. I think I'm going to keep my eye out for a great deal on the XM1 or XA1. BTW, my wife broke her shoulder over the weekend. She'll live but we're really hoping she'll be able to skip surgery. The emergency room doctor at the hospital said it looks like a clean break and the actual socket seems fine. She'll likely find out for sure from the orthopedist today.

 

[BBW]

Wow, Steve - I'm sorry, I didn't catch that part of your post about your wife. Shoulders can be tough but I hope the doctors are right.

Bill, I feel for you - quite a few years ago, I had a completely torn rotator cuff and the needed operation. Couldn't handle the pills, etc. Hope I never ever have to have another operation like that. Take care and do your PT when it's time!

 

[Biro]

I just pulled the trigger on an X-A1... $200 brand new in box - but without the 16-50 kit zoom, which was sold off. At that price, there's little risk. And I have a 27mm pancake lying around to use with it.