The Zebra Monochrome Magazine Issue #1 The Zebra Monochrome Magazine Issue #1 | Page 70

Have you ever owned a Leica camera before?
From your point of view, what is the main
distinguishing factor(s) between a Leica and
other brands of cameras that you currently or
have owned? Do these differences give a new
perspective in creating your artworks?
A Leica camera has always been beyond my
financial reach. All my previous equipments
have either been classified as student or serious
amateur. The quality of the final image separates
it from my other cameras - I can zoom into a shot
from the Leica and experience next to no grains
whereas on my serious amateur camera this can
become an issue at times. The range of tones is
far superior too and can be pushed a lot more
without affecting the quality of the end result.

Where do you think the Leica M Monochrom fits
in the world of photography, and the world of
creativity at large? Is there any specific audiences
whom you would recommend the Leica to?
On paper the Monochrom may be read as a
gimmick, but once handled, your opinion will
change. We have fast forgotten that we used film
before and if that film was black and white then
all the images on it would be black and white. We
used to make a choice before taking pictures and
we stuck with it. When I use the Monochrom I am
saying to myself, today I will only be taking black
and white pictures. I believe the Monochrom can
be used by a photographer shooting any subject.
The only question would be whether the subject
translates better into black and white or colour.
This would be the determining factor on whether
to shoot with the Monochrom or another camera.
The Monochrom is a truly amazing black and
white camera.

© Clayton Bastiani http://www.claytonbastiani.com/