The “Texas Leica” (aka the Fuji GW690ii)

A few months ago, I picked up the the Fuji GW690ii, affectionally called the “Texas Leica” by many. The nickname suits it quite well. Similar to a Leica, it is an all mechanical (no batteries!) true rangefinder camera — but way bigger because this camera makes massive 6×9 medium format exposures. This is the largest size you can get before you enter the land of large format photography.

Despite it’s potentially off-putting size, the Texas Leica is a joy to shoot. The fixed mount lens is a 90mm f/3.5 (which is roughly about a 50mm f/2 in full format). The lens creates a unique look to my eyes and it’s liberating not having to deal with additional lens options. Another meaningful constraint is only 8 shots per roll of 120mm film. This constraint really slows you down and I can feel myself relax when I’m out making photographs with this camera. Operating the camera (loading film, adjusting shutter, aperture and focusing) is super simple and straightforward. The rangefinder patch itself isn’t nearly as bright as the Mamiya 7ii or a Leica M but it’s totally functional.

The most significant drawback for me is the camera doesn’t have bulb mode. So long exposures (>1 second) requires the photographer to set the camera to T mode. Then after your desired exposure time, you have to turn the shutter dial to stop the film exposure. It works but it’s super odd.

I am still getting a feel for this camera and honestly not sure if it will replace my beloved Mamiya 7ii. But for now, I am having a lot of fun with it.

(All images made with the Fuji Gw690ii and Kodak Portra 400 film)

Foggy mornings

(All images made with a Hasselblad 503cw on Kodak Tri-X 400 film. Developed and scanned by FW Photos in Texas).

Nantucket

During the first few months of sheltering in place, I have not been terribly motivated to make photographs. Too much on my mind I suppose.

But I’ve been trying to get out there more of late and it feels good.

(All photos made with a Haselblad 503cw and Kodak Portra 400 film)

Nantucket in Autumn

The off season Nantucket is so quiet and peaceful. I made these photographs a few weeks ago. Jeep.jpggrass and road.jpg dog.jpgtracks and shells.jpgsunrise.jpgsunrise and stairs.jpgfarm.jpg

(All images made with a Mamiya 7ii and Kodak Portra 400 film, developed and scanned by Richard Photo Lab)

December in Nantucket

The winter months bring a special kind of beauty to Nantucket.The beaches are quiet and the boats have long left the docks. The days are shorter and the island prepares for a long stretch ahead.

The very first weekend of in December every year is known as Stroll Weekend. The town is fully decorated in holiday spirit and so do the visitors and residents alike. It’s a wonderful time & place to spend with loved ones.