How to use medium format stuff while riding bikes; partially tounge in cheek, of course. All images from earlier today...
#1: Choose a small lens and put the camera in the Evoc waist bag. Plenty of room when the tiny Fuji GF 50/3.5 is mounted, as you can see. Without removing the divider, I can bring the GF 30, 45, 50, 63 or 35-70. I could bring a second lens or a larger lens without the divider, but I prefer tools and puncture repair stuff.
I also like minimalism and don't feel the need to be able to shoot "everything".
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#2: Fit the tripod to the fork, if it's likely that light will fade before you're done. Which it will during winter in middle Sweden, especially since I seldom get out before noon. Then head out without a specific goal.
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#3: Enjoy the ride and keep eyes open for nice scenes or interesting things along the road. You never know what you'll come across! Rotating the waist bag onto your belly, you are about three seconds away from having the camera in your hand.
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#4: Oh, I forgot. If you are shooting a Fuji camera, measure white balance before every shooting session. Auto is always completely off, so I use a white balance lid on the lens. Can't be forgotten and at least gets you in the ballpark.
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Also, the Peak Design strap lugs let you ditch the camera strap. No need when the body is either in the bag, in your hand or on the tripod.
#5: Sooner or later you'll find something that requires a bit more work. Something that could be the image of the day. Take your time, view the subject from every angle. Set up tripod if necessary. Or if it makes you compose better. I don't like tripods but they certainly help me slow down.
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Yes, the tripod is silly tiny. Yes, it still works perfectly fine for a relatively hefty camera as long as the wind isn't too bad or the lens too long.
#6: Don't do a zillion versions of the same subject. They are more likely gonna suck if you can't decide beforehand what you really want with the photo. Admittedly, I did three versions this time, but the first was the only reasonably good one.
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#7: It felt good? You done? Good! Now you can ride on and enjoy the lovely, wet and cold december sunset that occurs several hours earlier than anyone could ever wish for. Maybe stop at a small lake and listen to the ice cracking.
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Now your toes and fingers are probably very, very cold, so better get home soon. Continue without lights until you barely see the road (closed to traffic in my case), just because it's nice to meet the darkness. Switch them on when you get to the main road and watch out for icy spots! No studded tires this year.
Thanks for watching...