Lea & Lens

On a beautiful sunny day in early February, I went hiking with my family and ended up fracturing my ankle. I spent seven weeks in one of those clunky medical boots, except mine was marginally cooler because it pumped up like Air Jordans. It was annoying, but at least it was successful. My second X-ray showed that the fractures had healed. Unfortunately, I’m still experiencing so much pain and swelling that my doctor is sending me to see an orthopedic surgeon.

As you would imagine, this has significantly impacted my photography. I haven’t been nearly as mobile as I was before the injury. My photo walks are a thing of the past. I’ve been photographing my home more and more, which I actually love, but I have no idea when I’ll be able to do more than that.

I’m not going to lie. I’m embarrassed to share this next part after all I’ve posted about gear and the many, many mistakes I’ve made in that regard. But I know I’m not the only one who has struggled in this area so I think it’s important to be honest. Even when it makes me look like an idiot. Maybe especially then.

I have very much regretted not going with my gut last August and buying the Ricoh GR IIIx. I thought it would be the perfect companion to my life. But I talked myself out of it because I didn’t think it would be practical enough or versatile enough, and frankly, because I think it’s too expensive for what it is. What if I decided to get back into professional photography? I have always love the idea of fixed lens cameras while at the same time being terrified to commit to only one focal length. Silly, right? Who knows, maybe I’ll still pick up a Ricoh at some point.

But now here I sit, not really getting much use out of my interchangeable lens gear, mostly because I can’t seem to manage carrying around even that small amount of extra weight. I’m in near constant pain as it is. The tiny little Ricoh would be perfect right about now.

So, why am I telling you all this? Simple. I do it in the hope that you won’t make my mistakes. Stop filling your head with dozens of reviews, including mine. It’s impossible not to be swayed by the opinions of others. When you’re considering a purchase, rent it. Form your own opinions. You have a gut for a reason. Use the photographic tool that makes you the most happy and brings you the most joy, even if it’s the most impractical tool of all. Maybe especially then.