It’s been a while since my last blog post, and I must admit that my health has not been on my side these past couple of weeks. Unfortunately, this kept me from capturing any images. Today, I’m still under the weather and coughing like a dog, but I managed to step outside and bask in the first rays of sunshine we’ve seen after months of dreary cold and rain here in our beloved Belgium.

As I gazed at my Hasselblad, I couldn’t help but feel that using it has become more of a battle than a source of joy, which is genuinely frustrating. The new Hasselblad V907 feels incredibly fragile, and I experience that same tension with my old V503 film camera. While the results from these cameras can be truly extraordinary, today I longed to reconnect with the camera that first ignited my passion for photography: my timeless Leica M. It’s in that beautiful instrument that I find the joy and inspiration I’ve been missing.

Here I am, reminiscing about my first camera purchase, which has gifted me countless beautiful images over the years. My collection includes the exquisite Leica M10 and the captivating Leica M Monochrome. Today, as I bask in the delightful warmth of the early spring sun, with a refreshing 17 degrees kissing my skin, I felt inspired to venture into some nearby industrial parks. It’s the perfect opportunity to clear my mind and immerse myself in the art of photography, capturing the beauty all around me.

I connected my Leica M10 with a stunning 24mm lens and my M Monochrom with a classic 50mm lens. Bathed in sunlight, I felt transformed, embracing a more positive and vibrant version of myself. Over the past few months, many have missed out on the joy of vitamin D, and today reminded me of its uplifting power. As I began capturing images, I was instantly reminded why my heart belongs to Leica. The rich colors, the elegant rangefinder design, the effortless simplicity—it’s a beautifully crafted camera that never lets me down. With its long-lasting battery and exceptional image quality, it’s a true companion in my photographic journey.

In the whirlwind of my busy life, finding the time to capture the images I truly desire can be a challenge. Each opportunity to photograph feels charged with pressure; I find myself insisting that I must return with stunning results. Yet, this relentless pursuit can sometimes overshadow the joy of creation, leaving me feeling discontent with what I’ve captured. Today, I made a conscious choice to embrace a minimalist approach, shedding the weight of heavy bags that often accompany my outings. This refreshing shift reignited my passion for photography and rekindled my love for Leica, reminding me of the beauty in simplicity and the joy of focusing purely on the art of capturing moments.

One of the most captivating aspects of the Hasselblad for me was the extraordinary ability to capture images on film. In that moment, everything clicked into place. I find myself yearning for a Leica M that uses film. Is the Leica M still in production? If so, I’m confident I can track one down. Over the past few days working with film, I’ve developed an even deeper appreciation for this timeless photographic process. It’s something I’m eager to weave into my travels and creative work. The camera itself feels like a fortress—sturdy and reliable. There are no digital quirks to worry about, no batteries to charge; all I need to do is ensure there’s film loaded, ready to capture fleeting moments with authenticity.

There’s something incredibly rejuvenating about being outside, where the sun warms my skin and my mind can clear. Although I’m still not quite at 100 percent, I find that Mother Nature always provides the best remedy. Just a brief excursion from home allowed me to capture some stunning images. With my trusty Land Rover Defender and the panoramic roof wide open, I truly felt blessed!

 

Thank you, Father Sun, for lighting up my day. Your warmth makes everything else fade away.