The Avid Photographer

The photo below was sent to my by Jason Lee, who likes photography. Every time I look at it, I am amused. For those who are using compact camera, it would be difficult to understand why this guy in the photo has to carry so many cameras. It may sound like a joke. But after buying a Nikon digital SLR (single-lens reflect) camera, I begin to understand the situation and I empathize with him.

The best thing or the problem of SLR cameras is that they can change lenses to suit the occasion. For a distance subject, telephoto lenses are used; for closer subject, mid range or wider anger lenses would better suit the scenario. There is no one lens that suits all conditions due to optical shortcomings. The renowned camera makers such as Canon or Nikon have constructed different lenses to cater for the different requirements and scenarios: distance subject, close subject, fast-moving subject, close-up subject, etc.

For a serious photographer, changing lenses at the critical moment mean missing the once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and great moment. Changing lens is a delicate operation and requires great care; otherwise, a careless mounting may damage the precision gear systems between the lens and the camera body. From my experience, at the critical moment and under tense condition, my hands were shaking (a little similar to Mr. Bean’s shaking his hands) and a simple insert and mount operation may seem daunting task. Hence, the poor guy in the photo is carrying a few cameras equip with lenses of different focal lengths. Depending on the scenerio, he just draws the camera with the correct lens.

Carrying the SLR camera and its lens are just like lifting weight. You would be surprised to know how heavy they are. On 22 January 2006 at 6am before the Great Eastern-Pacesetters 30km run, Mr. Chan Wing Kai, the Club’s official photographer, was carrying a huge backpack containing his tools – the cameras. He told me that there were only two cameras with their pre-mounted lenses.

I tried to lift the bag from the ground. It was very heavy – easily more than 10kg. So I told him jokingly that being in Pacesetters Club, not only that the legs must be strong, the hands and shoulder plates have to be strong too.

On 1 January 2006 during the New Year’s run at Lake Gardens, CS Wong was using a Nikon D200 (latest model of Nikon SLR) with a 70-200mm VR (vibration reduction) f/2.8 lens. Total weight was about 2 kg and I commented jokingly that it weighed like cement block. The lens alone weighs 1.7kg!

So, next time when you see a photographer or cameraman carrying a few cameras, please show your greatest admiration for him of having the fire and enthusiasm to capture the precious moments in life. And when they zero in on you, give your best smiles, will ya?

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To read reveiw of 18-200mm VR lens, please click here.

By KC