There's a New Camera on The Horizon

I've only talked about getting a new camera for what seems like a decade.  Yesterday I finally splurged on my first large-format camera.  I also purchased a super zoom lens that I can not wait to get my hands on for wildlife photography.  So what did I buy and why...

Nikon Z5 Mirroless (Adorama.com)

I bought a Nikon Z5 Mirrorless Camera, a 24mm to 400mm super zoom lens, and the Nikon Mount Adapter.  The adapter will enable me to continue to use my F-mount lenses on the new Z-mount large-format camera.  

I've been shooting with Nikon since the early 2000s and getting another one was a no-brainer.  In some aspects, camera people are like car people.  You're a Nikon, Cannon, Fugi, etc. just like there are Ford, Dodge, or Chevy people.  Why mirrorless?  I've been watching mirrorless cameras since they came out a few years ago.  The prospect of a lighter camera with lens options has intrigued me from the start, but when they first came out I didn't have the funds for the splurge.  Which was a blessing of sorts as the technology has improved since the inception of the mirrorless.  

My Nikon D3100 when she was brand new

As for the super zoom lens, I wanted something that would make traveling with a "big" camera easier.  on our last few vacations, I have traveled with my Nikon D3100 and while I love having it with me I hate lugging it in a carry-on.  I travel light considering the amount of camera gear I own, taking only the camera body and two lenses.  Even two lenses have become a bit of a slog when it comes to flying.  With the new super zoom lens, I'll be able to travel with just one lens.  

I've said for years, it's not the camera you have that makes you a photographer.  Your eye for things makes you a photographer and the best camera is the one you have with you.  That said, the gear and knowledge can make you a better photographer.  I am not a professional, nor do I have an interest in being one, and please don't ask me to take portraits.  I've always been a nature, places, and things photographer.  You can read a bit more about my photography timeline here as well as poke around and see some of the photos I've taken over the years. 

The hardest part will be the waiting.  When you live in Interior Alaska you never really know how the shipping for something like this is going to go.  If they use Fed Ex it's never here when they say it will be.  Shopping for a new camera has definitely reignited my passion for it and there's no better time to take photos than summer in Alaska.