There is no question that the D5 is a stunning piece of technology. The specs on the camera are convincing enough, but it wasn’t until I had the body in my hands that I realized how many possibilities were housed inside. After only a week, I’m certain it’s the camera I’ll use more than any other. Here’s why:
Whether on skis, at the gym, or in the studio, Lindsey Vonn is hard-wired to work at the highest level. She’s an Olympic gold medalist, the women’s record holder for World Cup victories, and she is one of the most naturally beautiful women I’ve ever photographed.
A few weeks ago I was introduced to a group of talented shooters whose work cries out to be more broadly seen and enjoyed. Every week, these photographers have the responsibility to capture subjects as varied as athletics, healthcare, corporate communications, and illustration. And their work is simply brilliant.
Photography gets under your skin. It burrows itself into your soul and infects you for a lifetime. It chooses you. When you meet other people who also love photography, their energy is infectious and it’s deeply inspiring to be around. They understand your obsession. And they want to talk about the virus that’s infected us all.
I used to believe that professional cameras were little more than a light-tight box. Unless someone needed a super-speedy motor drive, it always seemed like it was the quality of the lenses that mattered more than anything. I was mistaken. I now believe that the camera itself can contribute as much to the technical quality of a photograph as the best lenses—and more.
You never know how a day of photography is going to turn out. Some projects can be one challenge after another, while others proceed without a hitch. One thing you never expect is a day of photography that ends with someone almost dying.
