Inside My Camera Bag | Sebastian Kaps

A famous photographer, whose name escapes me, once said in an interview that no other field of photography is as hectic and thrilling as landscape photography. Asked what he meant by that, he answered that one has to be very quick so as not to miss a particular light situation. If the sun suddenly disappears behind the clouds, an irretrievable moment can be over forever and never come back.

After many years as a photographer, I can affirm that my colleague had been completely right. How many landscape photos have I not taken because I came a moment too late.

Of course, landscape photography is not only hectic – it can also be wonderfully relaxing. Without a doubt, this kind of photography is among my favorite activities.

When I grow up, I’m going to be a landscape photographer…. ;-)

I think the most important thing to take a good picture is not the kind of camera. It is only significant to be at the right moment in the right place. Your eye, your heart and your experience create a good image – or even not.

Many years ago I have got my first camera as a birthday present from my parents. It was a black plastic box with two shutter speeds and two apertures and the purchase price was 15,- Marks.

The first photograph I sold, shows a friend as he read a book. A large library in a large town bought my photo for 25,- Marks. I traveled 60 miles with my friend to this town to see my photo in the window of the library. We were 15 years old and we were very proud!

Many years later as I was a photographer, I used a Linhof and a Sinar large format camera. I loved the quality and the size of the slides. The weight and size of these kinds of cameras forced me to work thoroughly and accurately.

Today I like my Nikon D3X very much. Technically speaking it is the best camera I have ever had. But from time to time I think back to my old black plastic box.

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