L i f e C y c l e - Updated

 Nikon F50 - 1998

My photography interest started in 1998 when I first laid my hands on a Nikon F50. Not a star camera then, but it was enough to meet my needs to kick start a passion that has lasted more than two decades.

I moved up a notch to a Nikon F90x in 2000 when I came across this used set in the forum. Just couldn't resist as it was at a bargain. It was also from here that my collection of lenses started to grow.

 

 Olympus C5050 - 2002

This is the first digital camera that I used, and it was my travel companion on most trips. Small and inconspicuous, it served me well.

Nikon D70 - 2004

My first DSLR, a camera that created a hype to contest the Canon's range. It was my travel cam that eventually needed a sensor overhaul when it kaput 1 week into a 3-weeks holiday trip to eastern USA.

Nikon D100 - 2005

The failure of the D70 taught me a lesson - always have a backup camera when on a long holiday. A used D100 was acquired.

 Nikon D200 - 2006

Got rid of the D70 immediately when this was launched. Together with the D100, this photographer looked cool with both 'brothers' strapped over on each shoulder.

 Canon Powershot S5 IS - 2008

By this time, cool isn't in. Ache is. It was dang silly to lug these heavy gears on a holiday, when I should be enjoying the visits. Got rid of one brother and go back to basic, with my first Canon pro-sumer camera. One weight off the shoulder, literally.

Olympus EP3 - 2011

Gone one circle, dumped the Nikon and back to the Olympus range. The EP3 became my next camera and I love it to bits. It is compact, has the features, and IQ is simply great when match with the desired lenses. The love affair eventually ended with new purchases, of better sensor and image quality. 

 Olumpus E620 - 2012

This E620 has become my 2nd setup along with the EP3. I acquired it used real cheap and it comes with a 14-42mm kit lens. The seller has also thrown in a brand new spare battery and a 8gb CF card. What a steal!

Olympus OMD EM5 - 2013
This is my latest addition. I bought it in Tokyo and it comes without a kit lens. I will be using it with the prime lenses. With this purchase, one of the camera has to go. Will it be the EP3, or the E620? That is a tough decision, and I eventually sold both to make way for full- frame camera, who is the rage to be.

Sony A7 - 2014

Yes, I succumbed again to GAS. When Sony launched its first full-frame mirror-less RX1 in 2012, I was overly tempted to switch. It is as close to owning a Leica M series in terms of IQ reproduction but at a fraction of the cost. Nonetheless, I withheld the temptation, until now. I am now a happy owner of a new Sony A7, and I could own it only after selling most, if not all, of my existing gears. Both EP3 & E620, plus a couple of prime lenses, have been sold to fund this purchase. 

Olympus OMD EM1 - 2014

While I have the Sony A7, I also needed some new lenses to go with it. The recent Tokyo trip allowed me to pick up a couple of Zeiss lenses. Although I am extremely happy with the Sony set-up, I still feel for Olympus and its wonderful lenses. After working the sums, I decided to take the plunge to buy this latest m43 camera on the same trip. I intend to sell the EM5 and will use this camera with the 12mm and bigma lenses, which I enjoy using so much.

Both the Sony A7 and Olympus EM1 have been my travelling gear since, with some wonderful lenses to accompany. I am still happy with their performances but have been tempted many times to upgrade. Resistance may be futile but at this moment, let's enjoy what I have and make beautiful pictures and memories. 

  
And another travel trip awaiting....

Camera pictures are chosen from web images. If it belongs to you and you want it taken off here, please let the blogger know.