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Discover how to balance between film and digital photography using two unique Hasselblad cameras from the V system. Explore the intricate dance between classic and contemporary methods in capturing artistic expression.
ALPA has become my preferred medium format system in the digital age due to its precision, durability, lightweight design, and versatility. It performs admirably in studio settings with a digital back and in outdoor landscapes with film or digital capture.
Considering the expenses associated with digital backs, lenses, and other accessories, the ALPA system is undoubtedly a high-end investment. Even in the secondary market, ALPA equipment commands significant prices, with certain lenses being particularly rare and challenging to find. Nonetheless, transitioning to the ALPA system was the ideal choice for me, as I was transitioning from primarily using Hasselblad and 4×5″ film cameras to medium format digital. I started with my first ALPA body, the MAX, in 2012, and I have no regrets and would gladly reinvest in the ALPA system if faced with the same circumstances.
In my prior article titled, Camera Bag Versatility, I explained how I use lens cases to stow most of my lenses and some smaller gear items. As time passes, we face gear upgrades and letting go of gear we ended up not using enough to justify keeping. Well when this happens to me, I like to recycle my lens cases when I can. I use a very simple method that works for me and may work for you. Below is the former case for my Fujifilm 23/2 lens that became available when I passed the lens on to another photographer because I found I never used it.
In photography school, I was taught to use a pastry brush to clean the dust out of my film holders. I still use this technique today, and it works, or I would have changed it to something else long ago. Get a brush like this one and clean out your film holders periodically.
I had an older Stanley Tool Caddy I used on environmental portrait shoots years ago. It held an extra lens, a light meter, film, and other small items I would like to access during a shoot. It was a good size for my needs, easy to carry, and durable enough with a thick waterproof bottom.
While assembling my Fuji X-Pro2 (XP2) kit, I began looking for a lightweight bag to store it all in. I wanted the bag to carry my lenses in cases and be easy to work out of from the back of a vehicle. I also use the XP2 in the studio, so the bag had to offer something. Would it be possible to find such a versatile bag?