Dear rangefinder enthusiasts and classic photographers,
Thank you for allowing us to share some news and random thoughts with you.
Embrace the Basics
Over the last few years, it’s no secret that film or analogue photography has been on the ascendency. It never fails to surprise me how young people are gravitating to the magic of silver halide. I guess it’s fair to conclude that everything old is new again! From vintage Nikons to Olympus Trip point-and-shoots, people are revelling in the organic character of the photos they make. HDR be damned!
If you want a similar tactile experience without going through the expense of film and processing, both Fujifilm and Leica have held fast and never abandoned the analogue interface and methodology. From accessible, manual focus to tip-of-your-finger aperture priority, numerous Fujis and Leica Ms and Qs – even the new, small D-Lux 8 – guarantee an immersive, pleasing experience.
Of course, if you’re intent on wholeheartedly embracing analogue photography, our used section has a small collection of top-notch cameras that fit this niche.
GST-free Inspiration
If you want to take advantage of the GST vacation offered by our outgoing(!) Prime Minister, we have books that will please your eyes and wallet. Two that I’d like to recommend are from dear friends and outstanding practitioners of our métier, Geoffrey James and Ned Bojic.
Geoffrey James is a young-at-heart photographer, but with many years of academic and practical experience. His latest book, Canadian Photographs, is a throwback to the days where a picture was beautifully imagined, composed and executed. It’s as if this potpourri of Canadiana is a twist on the stylized images of Stephen Shore from the 1950s and 60s.
Working exclusively with Leica film cameras and mostly old, M lenses, Ned Bojic is seeking the poetic character of street life. There is a tension and intrigue that runs through his photographs where personalities, shapes and colours emerge and encourage one to ponder the beauty of our fair city. Montréal Magnitudes is his third book. Images are augmented by captions and text composed by Quebec poet and singer extraordinaire, Daniel Bélanger.
Both books would make beautiful additions to your photography library, and I’m proud to say that we have signed copies available at the Boutique.
If Leica historica and culture is what interest you, the new LEICA M book by Leica’s publishing arm recounts the history of Leica M cameras. Starting at the very beginning with the M3, it tells the story behind the philosophy and mission that brought us to today’s lineup of M cameras. A who’s who of past and contemporary photographers contributed with texts and images to the book. It’s a must have for Leicaphiles.
Inspired Travels and Happy Trails
While the best journey is the one that takes you home, it’s undeniable that unfamiliar places will get the creative juices flowing.
Richard Cavalleri is a European gentleman with a pied-à-terre near Montreal. He used to work as a commercial photographer with clients around the globe. By combining his passion for travel and photography, he’s reimagined himself and offers guided excursions to glorious locales including The Dolomites and Madeira. Many of my clients, friends and family members have been on these trips and have nothing but the highest praise for the organization, hands-on approach and Richard’s glass-half-full attitude. If you want to expand your photographic experience and have a great time in the process, consider booking a trip with Richard. Wonder, inspiration, discovery and camaraderie await. Scheduled destinations for 2025 are Japan and Tuscany.
Speaking of travelling and photography, my wife who recently retired and I spent part of the month of October on a road trip around Spain. From natural wonders to life in small towns and cities, my Leica M10-P, 28mm Elmarit and 50mm Summilux did yeoman service. I narrowed down the selection to this handful of photographs.
Last Minute Finds
If you are still looking for a present to buy for yourself or your photographically inclined dear one, we have assembled a small collection of attractive gifts, well chosen at always fair prices.
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On behalf of the entire Camtec team, I wish you all the best for the Holiday Season, and a peaceful 2025 filled with good discoveries and beautiful light.
Always looking forward to your comments.
Photographically yours,
Jean Bardaji and Daniel Wiener