fthomas Loc: Philippines

Over the past few months I have experienced some significant health challenges that resulted in some major life changes. Mind you I'm not complaining, but have been considering the equipment I now have forcing me into an interesting photographic challenge. Actually, I consider it a blessing in disguise.

I had to sell almost all of my equipment and was encouraged to keep one camera and a couple of lenses. I'm left with a Canon 60D, a Tamron 17-35 and a 90mm macro. I have no complaints and actually am considering the challenges as opportunities to simplify not only equipment, but force myself to learn to make the most of what I have.

Not everyone can afford the equipment I sold, but I have never been one to believe that you had to have a particular lens and body to be able to produce beautiful images that have impact and feeling. It is going to be an interesting journey and learning experience, which I actually look forward to.

If you only could have one body and one lens what would it be. Back in the days of film my preferred lens was a 100mm for street photography in Hong Kong and China. Zooms were not that great then so prime lenses were the only way to go. The perspective of the 100mm just seemed to fit my vision better than the rest. Now I think the 90mm 2.8 macro will be my favored tool. I am going to miss my 70-200 2.8 I must admit.

So, the question remains. If you could only have one lens what would it be? I'm thinking of the great photographer's of the early 1920's and their limited equipment compared to today. What are your thoughts?

Wide Angle Close Up & A Little Fun in PhotoShop

St3v3M Loc: 35,000 feet

There was a post recently about using one lens all the time and am sorry for your health but love your attitude. I think you will love it!

fthomas Loc: Philippines

Thank you! The health issues are pretty much resolved and in a positive way though it did impact my standard of living.

Regardless, I'm determined to make the most of what equipment I'm blessed to have remaining. Just thought it was an interesting challenge and one that many face who are getting started or enjoy photography as their occasional avocation and hobby.

I've also thought that as we add lenses and other equipment before we have mastered or gained the most of what we already have we cheat ourselves in a way and create a degree of internal conflict. Do I use this XX lens for this or do I have to use this one because some well known or admired pro used that one.

I say use what you have and enjoy!

charles brown Loc: Tennesse

First, let me wish you the best of health in the future years. Have thought of your question before and my answer would be a FF camera body with a 24-70 2.8 lens. Second lens would be a 70-200 2.8 Of course the new Nikon 800mm would make a great toy. For helath reasons I have cut back some and now considering getting rid of my DSLR and all the stuff that goes with it. The canon SX50 and the panasonic FZ200 sure look appealing. Good luck and God bless

charles brown Loc: Tennesse

love the photo

Dennstedt Loc: Ciudad de Merida, Yucatan, MX

First, I love your attitude also.
Second, I really like the photo.
Went through a similar experience 2-years ago, and ended up retiring at age 64. Best thing that could have happened to me. I now travel extensively, live abroad and photograph almost everyday.

Choices: Would keep my current primary shooter, Canon EOS 5D Mk2. First lens would be my EF 24-105mm f/4L USM, and if I could just keep two, my second choice would be my EF 400mm f/5.6L USM (I'm primarily a wildlife shooter).

lighthouse Loc: No Fixed Abode

One body and one lens?
I'll stick with the brief.
Easy.
D800 and the 16-35mm.

SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Fthomas, here is wishing you a full and speedy recovery. And that you may eventually be able to add to your photographic ensemble.

I am not in a few minute able to make the decision that you made.
The camera is easy, if I had financial restrictions I would keep the only camera I own, my Canon 5D mkll. The lens is a different story. I would hope to be able to sell a few lenses or trade for, or acquire an 85/1.2.
With this set-up I could shoot just about everything except long-range nature shots.
Good luck and prosperous shooting.

jesse1dog Loc: Afon Fathew

I've a variety of cameras but in a rush always grab my little Panasonic Lumix LX1. Of all cameras that is the one I would keep if I was to be restricted to just one.

jesse

profpb Loc: Venice, Florida

For walking around I use the "one lens" on my Panasonic ZS20.

For photography I use my D800e with only "one lens" at a time.

My favorite lens must be the 70-200mm f/2.8 G VRII, I needed a mortgage to get it.

But I love my 8mm Fisheye that captures 180 degree scenes.

O.k. the "one lens" I cannot live without and the last to be sold when I stop photography is my Nikkor 28-300mm. I use it on Both my D7000 and my D800e because it is FX.

BboH Loc: s of 2/21, Ellicott City, MD

One body, one lens?
My D800 and my Nikon 70-300

Bellisari Loc: Long Island, NY

D700 with Nikor 24-120 F4

A10 Loc: Southern Indiana

Portrait work might be an option if mobility is an issue. You can have your set-up and have people come to you.

GrahamS Loc: Hertfordshire, U.K

I would sell the lot and replace with a Fuji X1 Pro with a FujiXF 35mm f/1.4 lens.

Pepper Loc: Planet Earth Country USA

I admire your attitude and love the image.
I'd keep my D800 and my 70-200mm f2.8