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Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE Gallery Updated

Sun, 05 May 2013 16:46:16 -0500

5/5/2013 - The Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE gallery has been updated with pictures from Sedona, the Grand Canyon and Las Vegas.

Las Vegas Picture Gallery Added

Sun, 05 May 2013 16:39:41 -0500

5/5/2013 - Added a new picture gallery for Las Vegas. Just walking along the strip there were not many good vantage points, so the gallery is pretty small... All the pictures taken with the Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE.

Leica 90mm f2 Summicron APO Review - Updated

Sat, 04 May 2013 18:32:26 -0500

5/4/2013 - As promised, the Leica 90mm F2 Summicron F2 APO lens review has been updated. This past trip to the Sedona / Grand Canyon was the second vacation outing for the 90mm APO (Maui being the first). The 90mm APO performed well on both trips, and I think has been reflected in the updated review. The 90mm APO price tag is extreme, but it is very good performing lens and succeeded on two trips. It deserves recognition for that success.

PEBBLE PLACE: Gear Talk - Sedona and Grand Canyon Trip

Fri, 03 May 2013 09:51:20 -0500

5/2/2013 - It has been awhile! A new Gear Talk entry reflecting on the Leica M9-P during our recent trip to Sedona and the Grand Canyon. I had hoped to have a Leica M-240 for the trip, but still just hanging out on the wait list… arg…

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PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 135mm F3.5 LTM Lens Gallery

Sun, 24 Mar 2013 13:31:00 -0500

3/24/2013 - Created a new picture gallery for the Canon 135mm F3.5 LTM lens (a Canon rangefinder lens dating back to 1958). There are only 3 pictures, but that should grow, especially once the Leica M Type-240 gets here (whenever that happens…)

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 100mm F2 Serenar Review - Update

Sat, 16 Mar 2013 21:41:48 -0500

3/16/2013 - Added short comparison of 100mm reach vs 135mm reach with the Canon LTM lenses.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO Review - Update

Sun, 17 Feb 2013 17:39:57 -0600

2/17/2013 - Expanded the Leica 90mm APO review with a quick comparison of the Leica 90mm APO, Contax 100mm F2 Planar and Canon 100mm F2 Serenar LTM. All pictures taken with the Leica M9-P.

PEBBLE PLACE: Artisan & Artist ACAM 7100 Camera Bag Review

Fri, 01 Feb 2013 15:26:17 -0600

2/1/2013 - The Oskar's One Day Bag is probably the most popular bag in the Artisan & Artist line-up. It is a compact, lightweight bag designed to carry a Leica M, 3 lenses, accessories - and even an iPad. I have written a short review of the bag for reading pleasure.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 100mm F2 Serenar LTM Lens Review

Sun, 20 Jan 2013 15:05:02 -0600

1/20/2013 - The first draft of the Canon 100mm F2 Serenar LTM lens review is now on-line. Like the recent Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO review, the Canon review is 80-85% finished. The big missing piece is the Leica M-240, so it is going to be awhile before the review is officially finished. In the meantime, many pictures with the Leica M9-P, and I spent a stupid-crazy amount of time on the pictures of the Canon 100mm Serenar lens itself.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO Lens Review

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 19:47:51 -0600

1/12/2013 - The first draft of the Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO lens review is now on-line. The review is 80-85% finished. The big missing piece is the Leica M-240, so it is going to be awhile before the review is officially finished. In the meantime, many pictures with the Leica M9-P. Enjoy!

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO Gallery

Sat, 12 Jan 2013 18:38:03 -0600

1/12/2013 - Updated the Leica 90mm APO gallery with about dozen or so more new images. Hoping to have the first draft of the Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO review published later this weekend.

PEBBLE PLACE: Now on Facebook

Tue, 01 Jan 2013 12:00:00 -0600

1/1/2013 - The PebblePlace.com Facebook fan page was started a couple days ago. Why add a Facebook fan page? With the PebblePlace.com website format, I do not publish a new page unless it can be a full page, and sometimes coming up with a full page is not so easy. Turning a thought into a mini essay is not my strong suit, and frankly, sometimes my content rambles. Facebook is a way to publish the small stuff that does not fit well into the established PebblePlace.com page layout. I see Facebook as a way to augment PebblePlace.com.

I am new to Facebook and overwhelmed at the moment. Updating on the PebblePlace.com pages with "Like" buttons, etc., will take ~150 man-hours. Sigh… I am still updating galleries from 2006! LOL I am not sure were this Facebook "thing" is headed, so we will see what 2013 brings. And with that, Happy New Year to everyone!!!

PEBBLE PLACE: Bye Bye Autumn

Thu, 27 Dec 2012 18:00:00 -0600

12/27/2012 - Some of the last pictures from 2012 and reflecting on the Leica M9-P's performance since the Capture One Version 7 update.

PEBBLE PLACE: Summing Up 2012 in One Page

Sun, 16 Dec 2012 13:02:11 -0600

12/16/2012 - More gear passed through the house in 2012 than ever before, everything from Phase One P65+ kit to the diminutive Sony NEX-7. But as they say, as much as things change, nothing really changes. For 2013 I need to take lessons learned in 2012, focus less on the gear side and more on content.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 100mm F2 Gallery Gallery Updated for iOS

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 18:19:55 -0600

12/10/2012 - The 100mm F2 Planar gallery was also converted to the HTML today (no longer Flash based), but looking at the images, they are rather bland. The best Contax 100mm F2 images are in the review itself. And if you have not looked at the Contax 100mm F2 Planar review in awhile, it's been updated with new content. There is a 3-way Contax / Zeiss ZE comparison, and then another 3-way comparison with the Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar added into the mix. I am really looking forward to getting the Contax 100/2 mounted onto the Leica M next spring!

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 35-135mm Gallery Updated for iOS

Mon, 10 Dec 2012 12:57:48 -0600

12/10/2012 - The picture galleries have been rewritten and now work on the iPad and iPhone. This is a work in progress with 80%+ of the galleries updated. The 35-135mm is the latest gallery to be updated.

The Contax 35-135mm is probably my favorite zoom lens. I do not use it as often as I would like because on the Canon 1Ds Mark III, seeing focus can be tricky because of the slow aperture. This will change with the Leica M Type 240! I am very excited to try this lens on the M 240. I have already tried it on the Leica M9 using zone focus and resulting sharpness in the DNGs is exquisite.

PEBBLE PLACE: Last Bits of Color

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 22:30:06 -0600

12/8/2012 - Our first freeze of the season is coming in the next day or two, so all the leaves will be gone-gone as my wife says. So, headed out today to use the Leica 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO a bit and added some new pictures to its gallery.

PEBBLE PLACE: Back from Maui - Part II

Sat, 08 Dec 2012 14:17:25 -0600

12/8/2012 - Part 1 focused on the Leica M9-P and its role for some casual snapshots. Part 2 is discusses the Canon 1Ds Mark III kit which tended to be used for some of the more technical shots, such as long exposures and Servo auto-focus.

PEBBLE PLACE: Back from Maui

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 13:48:44 -0600

12/5/2012 - The Leica M9-P kit had its first official outing in Maui. We are back home and the first pictures are posted along with some thoughts on how the Leica M9-P performed on the trip.

PEBBLE PLACE: Updated Galleries

Wed, 05 Dec 2012 10:38:38 -0600

12/5/2012 - The picture galleries have been updated with a number of new lenses, in particular the Leica M galleries have been expanded. New additions include the 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE, 75mm F2 Summicron-M APO and 90mm F2 Summicron-M APO. Many galleries have been expanded with additional images as well, including the Canon 1Ds Mark III, Leica S2 and Leica M9P.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica M9 Returns

Tue, 27 Nov 2012 14:02:44 -0600

11/27/2012 - As mentioned last month, used Leica M9 prices are looking very attractive, so once again the Leica M9 (this time a M9-P) is back in the camera bag until the new Type -240 is available.

PEBBLE PLACE: New Pictures Added

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:55:17 -0500

10/27/2012 - Created a new gallery for the Leica 180mm F3.5 Elmar-APO S; added several new pictures to the Leica 70mm F2.5 Summarit-S ASPH gallery; and added one picture to the Canon 100mm F2 Serenar M39 gallery.

PEBBLE PLACE: Maybe Time to Buy the Leica M9 Again

Sat, 27 Oct 2012 00:46:57 -0500

10/27/2012 - Photo Plus Expo 2012 was a bust - no new Canon studio camera, so I am emotionally preparing to sell the Canon kit - and maybe use the proceeds to fund a Leica M9 - again! Used prices are very attractive, and I am a sucker for bargain.

PEBBLE PLACE: 2013 Is Looking Like a Great Year

Tue, 09 Oct 2012 19:28:41 -0500

10/9/2012 - It has been awhile since we have seen new gear in the high end market space, but that is changing. There is the new Leica M, the new Leica S - and now rumors of a Canon 46 MP dSLR. Sooner or later Nikon will have to update the aging Nikon D3X as well. New Zeiss lenses are on the way too. 2013 is looking very promising indeed!!!

PEBBLE PLACE: Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO Review - Final

Sat, 06 Oct 2012 17:49:38 -0500

10/6/2012 - The Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO review has moved from "draft" status to final. The review has been expanded with information on lens adapters and more commentary. As always, these reviews are never "done" and I expect to add and tweak as time goes on, but for now, it is close enough to call "final". Enjoy.

PEBBLE PLACE: Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO Review - Update

Thu, 04 Oct 2012 13:29:06 -0500

10/4/2012 - A small update to the Mamiya 200 APO review with a quick bokeh comparison of the Leica 180mm S wide open versus the Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO.

PEBBLE PLACE: The New Leica S

Fri, 21 Sep 2012 15:45:13 -0500

9/21/2012 - Earlier this week Leica unveiled their new Leica S at the 2012 Photokina show. While the sensor is unchanged, the camera itself has over 80 new features / changes / improvements. So how do these changes compare with my list?

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica S2 Handling Versus the Canon 1Ds Mark III

Sat, 15 Sep 2012 12:14:41 -0500

9/15/2012 - The Leica S2 has racked up about 2000 clicks during the past 5-6 months. The Leica S2 feels and behaves more like a dSLR than a medium format camera, so how does the Leica S2 compare against a Canon 1-Series dSLR?

PEBBLE PLACE: Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO Review

Sat, 18 Aug 2012 18:10:44 -0500

8/18/2012 - The first draft of the Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO was published today. During the next couple months the review will be updated with additional commentary and pictures from the Leica S2.

PEBBLE PLACE: Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar FE Review

Sat, 11 Aug 2012 14:48:22 -0500

8/11/2012 - The first draft of the Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar FE was published today. During the next couple months the review will be updated with additional commentary and pictures from the Leica S2.

PEBBLE PLACE: Pixel Peeping with the Leica S2

Sat, 28 Jul 2012 23:38:46 -0500

7/27/2012 - Today’s entry in the Leica S2 series features a quick 100% crop comparison of similarly edited pictures from the Phase One P65+ digital back, the Leica S2 dSLR and the Canon 1Ds Mark III. With a 60 MP digital back in the line-up, the comparison may sound academic, but the outcome might surprise you.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar FE Gallery

Sat, 21 Jul 2012 16:34:36 -0500

7/21/2012 - I have owned the Hasselblad 110mm F/2 Planar FE off and on during the past 5 years. I went through the hard drive and put together a new gallery for the Hasselblad 110mm FE. I hope to add to the gallery in the coming weeks when the Leica S2 returns from Solms.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar FE

Sun, 15 Jul 2012 14:54:52 -0500

7/15/2012 - Expanded the Contax 100mm F2 Planar with a new section comparing the Contax 100mm with the Zeiss 100mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE and Hasselblad 110mm F2 Planar FE.

PEBBLE PLACE: July 4th BH Special - Canon 7D for $1349

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 16:22:35 -0500

7/4/2012 - Just got an email from BH with a 36 hour special on the Canon 7D. This includes FREE SHIPPING too. And, the Canon double lens rebates still apply as well. This was too good of deal for me, so I picked up a Canon 7D and 17-55 F2.8 IS EF-S combo. And Canon releasing firmware V2.0 in August which adds a bunch of new features to the Canon 7D.

PEBBLE PLACE: July 4th - 2012 Kaboom Town Air Show

Wed, 04 Jul 2012 15:34:48 -0500

7/4/2012 - It is July 4th and time for the Canon 1Ds Mark III air show pictures. As nice as the Phase One P65+ and Leica S2 are, air shows are far outside their comfort zone. Action is Canon’s happy place and continuous auto-focus, 45 auto-focus points, 5 frames per second, lens stabilization and telephoto-zooms are worth their price.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica S2 Field Report - Part 3

Thu, 21 Jun 2012 13:41:27 -0500

6/21/2012 - Today’s entry concludes the Leica S2 field report. The Leica S2 does an excellent job of putting a ‘larger than full-frame 35mm sensor’ in a dSLR that can be used like a dSLR. Leica created a new tweener category. Does the Leica S2 replace digital medium format? Could a Nikon D800e match a Leica S2? Those are the big questions.

PEBBLE PLACE: Carmel California Gallery

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 17:24:49 -0500

6/17/2012 - The Carmel gallery has reached that "good enough" point. It's a bit heavy on the sunsets, that is just how the trip played out.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Mamiya M645 300mm F2.8 APO Super Telephoto Lens

Sun, 17 Jun 2012 17:23:17 -0500

6/15/2012 - The newest toy is a new-to-me Mamiya 300mm F2.8 APO lens. The lens was purchased for the Leica S2, but the first pictures are with the Canon 1Ds Mark III. Yes, I still have the Canon. The Mamiya is a gorgeous lens, and can be a bit of a bargain if found for under $2000 USD.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Mamiya M645 300mm F2.8 APO Super Telephoto Lens

Sat, 16 Jun 2012 15:27:17 -0500

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica S2 Field Report - Part 2

Fri, 01 Jun 2012 13:00:26 -0500

6/1/2012 - Added a new entry reporting on the Leica S2's performance in Carmel California.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica 70mm F2.5 Summarit-S ASPH Gallery

Thu, 31 May 2012 14:19:42 -0500

5/31/2012 - Added the Leica 70mm F2.5 Summarit-S ASPH picture gallery. The Mamiya 645mm 200mm F2.8 APO is still seeing most of the use on this trip, but the 70mm is beginning to see some action.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica S2 Field Report - Carmel California

Wed, 30 May 2012 01:55:22 -0500

5/29/2012 - The Leica S2 has been here for less than two weeks and is already doing vacation duty in Carmel California. For this trip the Leica S2 is the only camera - this is the first time the Canon 1Ds Mark III has not been used on a vacation in almost four years!

PEBBLE PLACE: The Carmel California Photo Gallery

Mon, 28 May 2012 14:25:05 -0500

5/28/2012 - Happy Memorial Day! We are on vacation in sunny Carmel California, and a new picture gallery was started this week with pictures from the Leica S2 dSLR. Thus far, the Mamiya 645M 200mm F2.8 APO is the main lens. I have other lenses in the camera bag, but getting accurate focus at F2.8 with the 200mm lens on a medium format sized sensor is really fun.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Mamiya M645 200mm F2.8 Gallery

Sat, 26 May 2012 14:14:37 -0500

5/26/2012 - For the past 3 months the Picture Galleries have had many updates. The Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO gallery has had many new images added from the Phase One P65+ as well as the Leica S2. The Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO is easily one my favorite lenses.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One DF and P65 Summary

Mon, 21 May 2012 09:02:28 -0500

5/20/2012 - After six months with the Phase One kit and looking back at the images, it is time to make some decisions.

PEBBLE PLACE: Phase One 80mm F2.8 LS vs Phase One 80mm F2.8 D

Sat, 24 Mar 2012 14:03:32 -0500

3/24/2012 - Following up on last week's comparison, today's post offers some sample files.

PEBBLE PLACE: Phase One 80mm F2.8 LS Schneider-Krueznach Lens

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 17:53:27 -0500

3/18/2012 - The Schneider-Kreuznach 80mm F2.8 LS leaf shutter lens is the newest addition to my Phase One DF / P65+ kit. The 80mm focal length can have a unique rendering on a full-frame 645 digital back which a full-frame dSLR cannot easily replicate. Also, an overview of how the Phase One 80mm F2.8 “D” and “LS” lenses compare.

PEBBLE PLACE: New Schneider-Krueznach Picture Galleries

Sun, 18 Mar 2012 14:58:56 -0500

3/18/2012 - Added to new galleries to the lens galleries for the Phase One leaf shutter lenses - the Schneider-Krueznach 80mm F2.8 LS and Schneider-Krueznach

PEBBLE PLACE: Some Mamiya ZD Nostalgia

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 22:12:22 -0600

3/10/2012 - Going through some old files, I found some unprocessed images from one of the first outings with the Mamiya ZD dSLR. Given some of the headaches with the Phase One DF kit, I do have some fond memories of the Mamiya ZD.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Joy and Pain of a High Megapixel System

Sat, 10 Mar 2012 22:10:39 -0600

3/5/2012 - With the newest high megapixel dSLRs, the monetary price for megapixel bliss is cheaper than ever. But realizing that bliss is not an easy feat and the Phase One DF kit is no exception. My latest weapon in this battle for sharpness are two Phase One LS lenses.

PEBBLE PLACE: The First 500 Images with the Phase One Kit

Mon, 09 Jan 2012 02:02:34 -0600

1/8/2012 - The Phase One P65+ is doing great, but the Phase One DF body seems like more hype than substance. The new Phase One IQ backs look quite sexy with their touch screens and jumbo sized LCDs, but the aging Mamiya 645AF platform is so stuck in the 80's…

PEBBLE PLACE: More First Impressions with the Phase One P65+

Sun, 01 Jan 2012 01:25:16 -0600

1/1/2012 - Happy New Years!!! I have been so busy playing with the Phase One P65+, that I have not paid much attention to the date. This last part of 2011 flew by. To kick off 2012, today's post has some more first impressions with the Phase One kit and how it is performing in the field.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One P65+

Fri, 30 Dec 2011 02:31:22 -0600

12/30/2011 - As quick as the Phase One P30+ arrived, it was sold just as quickly - and - replaced by the Phase One P65+. I had the itch to upgrade to full-frame and a Phase One dealer was anxious to clear some inventory before the end of the year. This probably was not my smartest purchase, but we will see where this goes!

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One DF Body and Phase One P30+ Digital Back Arrive

Sat, 03 Dec 2011 16:14:58 -0600

12/3/2011 - Digital medium format returns once again. The medium format gear started arriving this week, including the Phase One DF Body, the Phase One 80mm F2.8 D 645AF lens, the Phase One P30+ digital back, the Phase One V-Grip Air and some other items as well.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 35-135mm F3.3-4.5 Sonnar Vario Review Update

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 17:26:56 -0600

11/27/2011 - The Contax 35-135mm had some small updates / changes to the review, some new images added and an update about the Leitax Contax C/Y - Canon EOS adapter.

PEBBLE PLACE: Zeiss 50mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE Review Update

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 15:28:40 -0600

11/27/2011 - Awhile back I repurchased the Zeiss 50mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE and have been using it on and off again for the past several months. The 50mm Makro-Planar review has been updated with some new images and the last couple of the pages have been re-written.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leitax Contax C/Y to Canon EOS Lens Adapter Review

Sun, 27 Nov 2011 05:51:49 -0600

11/27/2011 - A new review of the Leitax Contax C/Y lens adapter for Canon EOS dSLRs. I have been using Leitax’s Contax C/Y adapters with the Canon 1Ds Mark III for about a year. If you need an adapter for your Contax lens and want a really good adapter, then this adapter is for you!

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax C/Y Adapters

Sat, 26 Nov 2011 20:14:59 -0600

11/26/2011 - For those of you that follow the website closely, you may have noticed during 2011 many pages were rewritten, in fact, over 100 pages have been rewritten. The work is tedious, but doing so ensures the PebblePlace.com offers relevant and contemporary information. The latest updates are the Contax adapter pages. They were originally written around 2007, so they have been long over due for a re-write.

PEBBLE PLACE: Chasing the Medium Format Look

Wed, 23 Nov 2011 14:08:06 -0600

11/23/2011 - Pictures from the Canon 1Ds I II & III, Leica M8 & M9, Phase One P25 and Mamiya ZD were printed by the Epson 3880 17” Inkjet Printer. The purpose was to see if what looked “medium format” on screen still looked “medium format” in print.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6 L IS Lens Review

Mon, 14 Nov 2011 23:25:51 -0600

11/14/2011 - Finally! I have had the Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6 L IS for about a year and have been writing bits and pieces of the review for the last 6-7 months. And today, at long last, it is finally published. The 70-300L is one of those lenses you wish Canon had made 15 years ago. Great optical performance and range, Canon’s latest IS and a compact size - the Canon 24-105L has finally found its soul mate.

PEBBLE PLACE: What Digital Medium Format Cannot Do

Sun, 06 Nov 2011 02:02:40 -0600

11/06/2011 - While the idea of digital medium format has struck again, the Canon 1Ds Mark III continues its duties as the centerpiece of my camera gear. As good as digital medium format files are, there are times when the 1Ds Mark III produces better results with less fuss. Medium format or no medium format, the Canon 1Ds Mark III is here to stay.

PEBBLE PLACE: Thinking About Medium Format Again

Tue, 01 Nov 2011 00:07:47 -0500

11/01/2011 - The Canon 1DX announcement really was not what I was expecting from Canon as a 1Ds Mark III replacement, so once again I find myself contemplating a medium format purchase.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 100mm F2 Serenar RF Lens

Tue, 11 Oct 2011 20:58:11 -0500

10/11/2011 - A short review of the 1960's era Canon 100mm F2 Serenar RF lens. This is focus-coupled LTM lens that can be used on the Leica M via a M39 to M Adapter. If your looking for portrait lens that is a bit off the beaten path, read on…

PEBBLE PLACE: Washington D.C. Picture Gallery

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 16:26:01 -0500

7/16/2011 - Added the Washington D.C. picture gallery; pictures taken solely with the Leica M9, 35mm Summilux-M ASPH and 90mm Elmarit-M.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH Review - Update

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 15:06:30 -0500

7/16/2011 - The Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH Review was first published around a year ago. Today the review was updated with some new pictures taken during the past 12 months. Also the conclusion section was updated.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica Does Washington D.C.

Sun, 17 Jul 2011 15:07:01 -0500

7/16/2011 - Just get back home from a Washington D.C. business trip. Before coming home I spent the last day walking through the National Mall, taking some pictures with the Leica M9's.

PEBBLE PLACE: New Picture Galleries and Updates

Sun, 10 Jul 2011 14:37:43 -0500

7/10/2011 - Added new picture galleries for the Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6 L IS Telephoto Zoom Lens, the Zeiss 85mm F2 Sonnar ZM for the Leica M, Maui vacation pictures and updated various Canon, Zeiss and Leica M lens galleries.

PEBBLE PLACE: July 4th Air Show Pictures

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 18:32:06 -0500

7/4/2011 - Some air show pictures from the Addison, Texas July 4th Celebration on this past weekend. All the pictures were taken with the new Canon 70-300mm F4-5.6 L IS lens.

PEBBLE PLACE: Kansas City

Mon, 04 Jul 2011 14:42:49 -0500

7/4/2011 - Some recent pictures from Kansas City, Missouri taken with the Canon 1Ds Mark III and Contax 35-135mm Sonnar-Vario. This is not my usual travel duo, but after the Hawaii trip, I was ready to use some other gear for a change.

PEBBLE PLACE: Kauai Picture Gallery

Sat, 11 Jun 2011 01:14:31 -0500

6/11/2011 - About half the pictures from the Hawaii trip have been processed. Most of the images have been posted in recent Gear Talk entries. Today the first draft of the Kauai picture gallery was posted. I will probably remove several, edit several and several. But the first pass is done and the Mrs. is happy.

PEBBLE PLACE: Grand Canyon of the Pacific

Thu, 09 Jun 2011 10:14:15 -0500

6/9/2011 - On the inland side of the Na Pali coast mountains is Kokee State Park and Waimea Canyon - sometimes call the Grand Canyon of the Pacific. To the west are the lush green coastal mountains, and to the east a dry range of canyons stretching for 10 miles. It is like having two totally different locations just by tuning 180 degrees.

PEBBLE PLACE: Kauai Dinner Cruise - Na Pali Coast

Sat, 04 Jun 2011 21:21:46 -0500

6/4/2011 - This is the last entry for awhile because it is back work... vacation over... sigh... Today's entry has some new pictures from the Na Pali coast dinner cruise. The coast line is beautiful and one of those things that I probably will only see once in a lifetime.

PEBBLE PLACE: Portrait Pictures from Hawaii

Fri, 03 Jun 2011 16:52:18 -0500

6/3/2011 - Lots and lots of portraits on this trip, so today's entry is quick wrap of the portrait pictures. Five are from the Zeiss 85mm F2 Sonnar ZM - not much available on the web from this lens, so this may help out some would-be buyers.

PEBBLE PLACE: More from Hawaii

Thu, 02 Jun 2011 08:29:19 -0500

6/1/2011 - Catching up on the website updates. Today's entry has more pictures from the Canon 1Ds Mark III taken in Kauai and Maui.

PEBBLE PLACE: First Pictures from Kauai

Fri, 27 May 2011 07:45:09 -0500

5/26/2011 - We have been in Kauai for three days now and the Leica and Canon gear are doing well. Yesterday’s cruise to the north point of Kauai was amazing with cliffs and colors - very Hawaiian

PEBBLE PLACE: Hawaii 2011

Sun, 22 May 2011 18:36:28 -0500

5/22/2011 - Summer vacation is just around the corner and our first trip is Hawaii. The gear has been selected. See what is going and what is not.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica M9 Color

Fri, 20 May 2011 13:08:53 -0500

5/202011 - It has been nearly another year with the Leica M9 and one thing still bugs me about it - COLOR! Me and Leica color just do not get along and I am at a loss as what to do about it...

PEBBLE PLACE: Traveling with the Leica M9 on Business in Toronto

Sun, 06 Feb 2011 01:40:25 -0600

2/6/2011 - The new year started with with alot of business travel and the Leica M9 finally saw a bit of play time last weekend in Toronto.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax N 100mm F2.8 Makro-Sonnar Lens

Sat, 15 Jan 2011 17:19:46 -0600

1/15/2011 - The Contax N 100mm F2.8 Makro-Sonnar lens review was updated with some added commentary about its performance relative to Zeiss 100mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE and Contax C/Y 100mm F2 Planar.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 18mm F4 Distagon Ultra Wide Angle Lens

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:48:27 -0600

1/14/2011 - The Contax 18mm F4 Distagon review received some minor updates changes as part of the website update. The Contax review was originally written prior to owning the Zeiss 18mm F3.5 ZE, so some sections were in need of a re-write as well.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 28mm F2 Distagon Wide Angle Lens

Fri, 14 Jan 2011 12:47:45 -0600

1/14/2011 - The Contax 28mm F2 Distagon review received some minor updates changes as part of the website update. The Contax review was originally written prior to owning the Zeiss 28mm F2 ZE, so some sections were in need of a re-write.

PEBBLE PLACE: Geotagging Leica M9 DNGs and Canon 1Ds Mark III CR2s

Sun, 09 Jan 2011 23:30:00 -0600

1/9/2011 - Today the Sony GPS-CS3KA gets its first test drive along with some freeware for geotagging Leica M9 DNGs and Canon 1Ds Mark III CR2s.

PEBBLE PLACE: FRAMING A PCITURE

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 19:02:57 -0600

12/26/2010 - A quick discussion about framing a picture on the Canon 1Ds Mark III and the Leica M9.

PEBBLE PLACE: 2010 IN REVIEW

Sun, 26 Dec 2010 00:50:12 -0600

12/26/2010 - As 2010 draws to a close, today's Gear Talk entry reflects on the current state of my gear and at what point an upgrade would be worthwhile.

PEBBLE PLACE: Valley View Texas Gallery Update

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:23:17 -0600

12/24/2010 - This is a small town about 15 miles Northwest of Denton.

PEBBLE PLACE: Decatur Texas Gallery Update

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:20:59 -0600

12/24/2010 - I am SERIOUSLY behind on processing images from 2010, so the last month has been non-stop editing. The Decatur Gallery is almost up to date - I think... It is hard to keep track of the files. A good mix of equipment has been used to take pictures in Decatur.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH Photo Gallery

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:18:25 -0600

12/24/2010 - Some updates to the 35 Lux Gallery as well.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH Review Update

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 20:17:06 -0600

12/24/2010 - I think this review is finally finished. I am quite happy with the lens and plan to continue in the New Year. Some minor changes were made in the latter part of the review and some new sample images added.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 35-135mm F3.3-4.5 Vario-Sonnar Photo Gallery

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 19:31:07 -0600

12/24/2010 - As part of the Contax 35-135's review update, the photo gallery was also updated The gallery is looking pretty full these days and it shows a good representation of what the lens is capable of delivering.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 35-135mm F3.3-4.5 Vario-Sonnar

Fri, 24 Dec 2010 19:29:12 -0600

12/24/2010 - I have been working on this review for several months and today it got its next major update with a slew of product pictures and some new images added to the review as well. It is not the most loved lens, but show it some holiday cheer!

PEBBLE PLACE: Clash of the Titans

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 12:47:02 -0600

12/19/2010 - After about 2 months with the Phase One P25 the honeymoon was over... I started to get frustrated and what followed next was a continuous comparison of different dSLRs and the Phase One P25. These entries in the Gear Talk Column may be old, but dSLRs have not changed much in the last 2 years and the content is still relevant.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One P25 and the Mamiya 200mm APO

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 12:43:35 -0600

12/19/2010 - About 3 years ago I first tried the the Mamiya 200mm F2.8 APO on the Mamiya 645AFD II and Phase One P25. I was completely blown away by the lens. 200mm on a dSLR does not really excite, but put 200mm on a 48mm x 46mm sensor and I am in love!

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One P25 and Product Shots

Sun, 19 Dec 2010 12:40:22 -0600

12/19/2010 - Most photographers love the 3D effect and that is something the Phase One P25 and Mamiya 80mm AF lens can deliver. The product shots from this pair were always excellent. For table top photography, I think the Phase One P25 is still among the best options available today.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Phase One P25 Gotchyas

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:29:49 -0600

12/17/2010 - It was about 3 years ago today when I first started trying to wrap my head around the Phase One Digital Back. I had such high expectations at the time. With used digital backs being so cheap today on Ebay, it is good revisit these old posts and refresh our memories. Digital backs can deliver awesome quality, but actually netting that quality is whole other story.

PEBBLE PLACE: Capture One C1 LCC Profiles

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:24:35 -0600

12/17/2010 - Creating LCC for profiles for Phase One digitlal backs is a mandatory step in the digital back work flow. Actually many cameras could benefit from LCC profiles and now Capture One supports LCC profiles for any camera. Today's entry is a re-issue from the 645 Blog and talks about why I needed to learn about LCC profiles. Leica M9 owners with red-edge issues could benefit this bpost.

PEBBLE PLACE: The New Gear Talk Column

Fri, 17 Dec 2010 16:20:39 -0600

12/17/2010 - Things are changing! The 135 Blog and 645 Blog are being merged into one column, now called Gear Talk. Implementing this change means massive editing and rewriting. Part of the process includes updating some of the out of date posts. Today the first post in the Phase One P25 saga was republished. If you have been thinking about a digital back then following the first entries in Gear Talk column could be a fun read.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M Review Update

Sun, 12 Dec 2010 15:59:49 -0600

12/12/2010 - Expanded the review with a new page discussing how a floating element optical design improves a lens - such as in the new Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH FLE. Also discuss focus shift and how to manage it.

PEBBLE PLACE: New Photo Gallery - Valley View, Texas

Tue, 07 Dec 2010 12:14:58 -0600

12/7/2010 - Today's images are from the Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II review and the Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N AF review. The pictures have now been grouped and cataloged into one common gallery and placed in the Texas Pictures section. It was good outing for the Canon 1Ds Mark III. A hot day, but good.

PEBBLE PLACE: New Start Page and Search Function

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:58:53 -0600

12/5/2010 - I decided to dump the flash graphics on the start page since iPad users get no joy. That, and the layout was about a year old and I was getting bored. There is some new eye candy on the front page, but more or less it is the same info as before. A new search function was added just beneath the menu. I have to hand code this on to each page, so eventually it will be site-wide. Right now ~5 pages have the new search option.

PEBBLE PLACE: Celina-Prosper-Gunter-Dorchester Gallery Update

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:54:33 -0600

12/5/2010 - You don't know where these cities are? No problem - neither did I!!! These cities are around 20-30 miles north of our house. During the summer I took pictures there 2 or 3 times. Now that winter is settling in, I wanted to go back and get some pictures with the low hanging winter light.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH Gallery Update

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 01:00:00 -0600

12/5/2010 - This weekend I actually left the house and took pictures - for fun! For fun! Imagine that!!! The 35mm Summilux gallery has 15 new pictures from the Leica M9 taken this weekend. I am really liking the 35mm Summilux-M ASPH and find the lens far more versatile than expected.

PEBBLE PLACE: The Leica M9 - Again

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:46:21 -0600

12/5/2010 - In today's 135 Blog update the cat is out the bag - the Leica M9 is back for another go around. Even if you are not a fan of Leica rangefinders, at least my antics give you something to read on a Monday morning!

PEBBLE PLACE: Sample Images Gallery Updated

Mon, 06 Dec 2010 00:43:21 -0600

11/30/2010 - The sample images galleries have collections of pictures taken with various lenses. I am probably two years behind schedule on adding all the lenses ever used, but the galleries are updated occasionally. This past weekend two galleries were added - the Contax 35-135mm F3.3-4.5 Sonnar Vario zoom lens and the Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M Lens Review

Sun, 28 Nov 2010 16:35:46 -0600

11/28/2010 - Just added - a review of Leica's 35mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH lens. While the new 35mm Summilux with the floating element may have an advantage in wide-open sharpness, I think the new lens lost some of the original 35mm Summilux ASPH's fingerprint. Used prices have to started to go up for the now distontinued 35mm Summilux ASPH - and maybe there is a good reason.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 200mm F2.8 L USM Mark II Lens Review

Sun, 07 Nov 2010 16:40:30 -0600

11/7/2010 - In light of the recent Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II lens review, I felt the 200mm F2.8 L review needed an update. Choosing between a prime and zoom in this focal length is a difficult decision, so some new commentary was added along with some new pictures.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica M9 Custom Color Profiles

Sat, 06 Nov 2010 18:37:50 -0500

11/6/2010 - Winter is coming and with lots of long, dark nights ahead - what better time to post process all those summer vacation pictures? If that is your winter plan and you have a stack of Leica M9 images to work through, then maybe some custom Leica M9 color profiles will brighten your day. So Happy Holidays from PebblePlace to you!

PEBBLE PLACE: Carl Zeiss 50mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE Review

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 17:44:07 -0500

10/31/2010 - And another review that has been sitting idle for awhile. Again, not much new to add here. The 50/2 ZE offers terrific bokeh if shooting at close distances. For the Zeiss enthusiast, I think the 50/2 ZE would make a great second 50mm lens. It is a little heavy, and the F2 aperture is alittle slow for a general purpose 50mm. But if you want to add a SECOND 50mm lens to your line-up, then the Zeiss 50mm F2 Makro-Planar could be just the right lens for you.

PEBBLE PLACE: Carl Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE Review

Sun, 31 Oct 2010 17:40:13 -0500

10/31/2010 - There have been some emails asking when the Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE would be concluded. The answer is - Today! Overall the review is relatively unchanged. Some images added along with some new commentary about the 28mm ZE vs the Leica 28mm F2.8 Elmarit ASPH and Summicron-M ASPH. I still think the 28 ZE is one of the hidden jewels in the ZE line-up, but 28mm primes are not widely popular, so it pretty flies under the radar.

PEBBLE PLACE: Sedona Arizona

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 02:38:41 -0500

10/17/2010 - Today's 135 Blog entry is a follow-up to some of the recent lens reviews with some new portrait images added. Most of the pictures used in the reviews were landscapes and such, so some portrait images help to finish off those reviews. The entry also touches on which gear was used, and perhaps more importantly, what gear was NOT used.

PEBBLE PLACE: Round 3 with the Leica M8

Mon, 18 Oct 2010 02:37:10 -0500

10/1/2010 - Some more discussion about the Leica M8.2 and its value in today's second hand market. Also, if trying to keep within a budget, then a couple Voigtlander lenses might be worth looking into as well.

PEBBLE PLACE: Life with the Leica M8 (M8.2) Again

Sun, 26 Sep 2010 20:14:54 -0500

9/26/2010 - With Photokina at a close, today’s entry is a reflection on the current capabilities of today’s dSLRs and whether or not we really “need” new equipment. With great deals on used gear, do we really need new gear?

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 7D dSLSR

Wed, 22 Sep 2010 10:36:04 -0500

9/22/2010 - The Canon 7D dSLR review is available for your reading pleasure. Canon packed an amazing array of features and technology into the Canon 7D. If Canon was trying to create a mini 1-Series camera, then I think they have succeeded. I am a full-frame kind of guy, but if I was going to buy a cropped sensor camera, I am pretty sure the Canon 7D would be it.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica M8 Review - Rewrite

Sun, 19 Sep 2010 03:55:49 -0500

9/19/2010 - The original Leica M8 was first published around September 2008, and things have changed since then. In 2008 the Leica M9 did not exist and was just a mere rumor. Also, today I have two more years of M experience under my belt - six months of that time with the Leica M9. The M8 review felt out-of-date, so it got a face lift and alot of editing. For those of you thinking of picking up a $2000 used Leica M8, the review could be helpful. It really is a great camera.

PEBBLE PLACE: Carl Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM Lens Review

Wed, 08 Sep 2010 16:59:44 -0500

9/8/2010 - A couple people recently asked about the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM. The review was a bit dated, so I went through it, updated some parts and gave it a quick re-model. I still think Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar has a great bang-to-buck ratio, and I might buy one again for the Leica M8.2 (which should be back from service in a week or so).

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II Lens Review - Updated

Sun, 29 Aug 2010 14:59:17 -0500

8/29/2010 - The finish line is in sight and the Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II review is almost finished. It has been a month a picture taking and after around 1000 clicks, there is no doubt about it, the 70-200mm refresh is a homerun. For a twist, this past weekend I shot with 70-200mm with a Canon 7D and the auto focus performance was impressive. As usual, the review is a bit longer with more text and more images. This will probably be the last update on the review until after our trip to Sedona in October.

PEBBLE PLACE: Life Without a Leica M9

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 18:48:59 -0500

8/22/2010 - Several months ago the plan was to keep the Leica M9 and sell the Canon 1Ds Mark III kit. By May / June I was having some doubts and held onto the Canon 1Ds Mark III. Fast forward a couple more months and Leica M9 and lenses have been sold. Why the change of heart? Click to read more.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II Lens Review - Updated

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 13:43:11 -0500

8/22/2010 - The Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II review has been updated with some new comments about image stabilization and focus performance. Several more images were added as well. After another day of shooting, still no complaints and than the Texas heat... 107 F yesterday. Ack...

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N Review - Updated

Sun, 22 Aug 2010 04:53:48 -0500

8/22/2010 - Updated and finished the Contax 50mm F1.4 N Planar review this weekend. Overall the Contax 50mm N has done very during the past couple months, espeically as a landscape lens. And as a walk-around lens, its light weight makes the Canon 1Ds3 bearable in the +100 F Texas summers! Today's update also includes some new images.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II Lens Review

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 17:29:02 -0500

8/15/2010 - The first installment of the Canon 70-200mm F2.8 L IS Mark II review has been uploaded. This lens is beast! Very sharp, but very heavy. I have been shooting with it for about month and have been impressed with its sharpness. A definite upgrade over the original 70-200mm F2.8 L IS.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N Review - Updated

Sun, 15 Aug 2010 17:26:43 -0500

8/15/2010 - Again, more images added to the Contax 50mm N review. Nothing new to add to the text part. The lens is doing great and is part of my regular kit.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N Review - Updated

Sun, 08 Aug 2010 14:33:41 -0500

8/8/2010 - The Contax 50mm N review was updated again this past weekend with some more landscape images. Some more commentary was added regarding the lens' resolution performance. It has now been about a month with the Contax 50mm N and the results have been very good.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica-R / Canon EOS Database Updated

Thu, 29 Jul 2010 11:27:43 -0500

7/29/2010 - We received an update today for the Leica 35-70mm F2.8 ASPH Vario-Elmarit. The lens will work on the Canon 1Ds bodies if the rear shroud is removed (a very simple task). Also, during the past month the Leica section has undergone a large update with 2 pages talking about specific lenses which may or may not work on your full-frame dSLR. Be sure to check out the "Lenses" section.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica-R / Canon EOS Database Updated

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 19:03:01 -0500

7/27/2010 - During the past a couple months ~20 Leica R lenses have been updated along with specifications for about more lens. The database is currently up to date and fairly complete. The database also underwent some cosmetic changes as well.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N Review - Updated

Tue, 27 Jul 2010 10:56:44 -0500

7/27/2010 - The Contax 50mm N review was updated this past weekend with some more landscape images. The auto focus section has been expanded and a new section discussing bokeh has been added. I am still quite impressed with the lens. As a general use / walk-around lens, the Contax 50mm N is a very good 50mm lens.

PEBBLE PLACE: Conurus Converted Contax 50mm F1.4 Planar N Review

Sun, 18 Jul 2010 14:45:02 -0500

7/18/2010 - I have been on a mission to find a 50mm prime for the Canon 1Ds Mark III that can rival the Leica 50mm F1.4 Summilux-M ASPH's performance (on the Leica M9). The Contax 50mm F1.4 N (converted by Conurus) is the latest contender. The first impressions have been posted in the Contax 50mm N's review.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leitax Leica-R / Canon EOS Adapter Review

Sat, 10 Jul 2010 04:14:06 -0500

7/10/2010 - Last month I ordered a Leitax adapter kit for a Leica 50mm Summilux-R E60. I have used many different adapter brands over the years, and I believe the Leitax adapter is the best one I have tried. If you are looking for a Leica-R / EOS adapter, Leitax is definitely worth checking out.

PEBBLE PLACE: Contax 35-135mm F3.3-4.5 Vario-Sonnar Review Updated

Mon, 21 Jun 2010 19:55:40 -0500

6/21/2010 - It has been several years since I last used the Contax 35-135mm. I recently purchased one and gave it a quick test drive on the Canon 1Ds Mark III. The original review published around 2007 and has been rewritten based upon the results with the Canon 1Ds Mark III.

PEBBLE PLACE: Finding a Balance with the Leica and Canon Gear

Wed, 04 Aug 2010 10:30:58 -0500

6/06/2010 - After buying the Leica M9, the Canon 1Ds Mark III was on the short list of gear to be sold. One thing led to another, and the 1Ds Mark III has not sold - and probably won't be sold. So, the new question is - how to balance the M9 and 1Ds Mark III?

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica Univerisal Polarizer Kit for the Leica M

Wed, 05 May 2010 09:54:42 -0500

5/04/2010 - It has been about a year since the Leica Universal Polarizer review was first added to the website. This past weekend we were in Lake Tahoe and the polarizer kit had a solid work-out with the Leica M9. The review has been updated along with several sample images.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 200mm F2.8 L USM Mark II Review Update

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:53:54 -0500

4/28/2010 - The Canon 200mm F2.8 review was started a couple years ago and had not been updated in a long time. The review was updated, new images added along with my final thoughts and opinions on the lens. The Canon 200mm F2.8 is a lens I want to like, but for some reason they never stick around for long. it is a good lens, but there are some other lenses I rather use instead.

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 24-105mm F4 L IS Review Update

Thu, 29 Apr 2010 14:48:50 -0500

4/28/2010 - The Canon 24-105mm F4 L IS review has not been updated in a year or so, so earlier this week the review was updated with my latest feelings / opinions on the lens. In short, it has been a great lens and has been on every major vacation since 2006. If you have a summer vacation coming up, the Canon 24-105L is an excellent choice as a walk-around, do-it-all lens.

PEBBLE PLACE: Artisan & Artist GCAM 1100 Leather Camera Bag Review

Sun, 11 Apr 2010 03:27:55 -0500

4/11/2010 - Added a quick review of the the Artisan & Artisan GCAM 1100 Bag - also called the Elliot's Everyday Bag. The Elliot is the same design as the Evan's Walker Bag. While the two bags share the same design, the Elliot bag comes in leather for an extra bit of style. If you have been looking for a small day bag for your rangefinder or micro 4/3's system, the pictures, etc., might help in your search for the perfect bag.

PEBBLE PLACE: Zeiss 100mm Makro-Planar ZE vs Leica 75mm Summicron-M APO

Fri, 02 Apr 2010 13:29:17 -0500

4/02/2010 - Today is the first entry of the portrait lens comparison. I am not sure how to tackle this comparison since it spans multiple systems and multiple focal lengths. We will just see where things go. Hopefully it will be interesting read.

PEBBLE PLACE: Hard Choices Ahead

Sat, 27 Mar 2010 14:09:38 -0500

3/27/2010 - With the Leica M9 performing well, the next decision is deciding which lenses will be purchased for the M9 and which lenses will be kept for the Canon 1Ds Mark III. The Leica M9 lenses will be partially funded be selling some of the Canon gear. Deciding which lenses will be sacrificed for the greater good is not easy.

PEBBLE PLACE: Another One Lens Day

Sat, 20 Mar 2010 21:55:02 -0500

3/20/2010 - The last month has been very hectic with work and business travel. During the travel I did use the Leica M9 with 50mm Summilux-M ASPH. As usual, the 50 Lux delivered excellent results. All in all it was a very successful trip for the M9.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica M9 First Impressions

Sun, 21 Feb 2010 20:32:06 -0600

2/21/2010 - This morning I picked up a used 50mm Summilux-M ASPH from a local seller (thank you Frank), and on the way home the M9 & 50 Lux had their first outing. Today's update is pretty short, but it gives a hint of things to come.

PEBBLE PLACE: Leica M9

Fri, 12 Feb 2010 11:34:07 -0600

2/12/2010 - The newest addition to the bottomless gear bag is a Leica M9. The M9 was somewhat unplanned, though, I was on a waiting list because I wanted the option. Given the long waiting list and the ever-present risk of Leica price increases, when ProPhoto Supply called, I decided to buy the M9 and give it try. Today's entry provides some context as to why I still like M's.

PEBBLE PLACE: Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE Field Report

Wed, 16 Dec 2009 01:04:56 -0600

12/16/2009 - Around October 12, 2009 Zeiss announced the new Zeiss 28mm F2 Distagon ZE for the Canon EF-Mount. Surprisingly (at least to me) the 28mm ZE started shipping a couple weeks later and couple weeks after that I ordered one. For those of you interested in the Zeiss 28mm ZE, my field report has been added the Review section of the site.

ZEISS: Carl Zeiss Announces the Zeiss Makro-Planar ZE's

Fri, 04 Dec 2009 09:53:34 -0600

12/4/2009 - If you have been following this site, today could go down in history as a religious holiday - Zeiss announced 50mm F2 Makro Planar ZE and 100mm F2 Makro Planar ZE. The 50mm will be available in December 2009 and the 100mm will follow at the beginning of 2010. More information is available at the Zeiss website. hallelujah

PEBBLE PLACE: Canon 135mm F2.0 L USM Review

Sun, 08 Nov 2009 15:07:21 -0600

11/8/2009 - Now available - the first pass of the Canon 135L review. I have been using the Canon 135L off and on for around 3 years and figured it was probably time to write a review of some sort.

ZEISS: Carl Zeiss Announces the Zeiss 35mm F2 T* Distagon ZE with Canon EF Bayonet

Mon, 02 Nov 2009 11:24:00 -0600

11/2/2009 - Three weeks ago Carl Zeiss announced the 28mm F2 Distagon ZE - and the 28mm Distagon is already shipping and available B&H Photo. Today another ZE announcement - the 35mm F2 Distagon ZE. The 35mm was earned rave reviews in the ZF mount for sharpness and resolution. The ZE is schedule to start shipping November 16, 2009 with a suggest price of $870 USD.

PEBBLE PLACE: Alaska Trip, Part III

Tue, 20 Oct 2009 03:31:51 -0500

10/19/2009 - Of all the ports, Juneau was probably the most lackluster due to poor weather. Non-stop rain made picture taking difficult and the results (or the lack of results) pretty much tell the story. This was our second time to Juneau, so I dusted off some pictures taken with the 1Ds from 2005. Ironically the weather in 2005 wasn't much better. In 2005 we were too early, and in 2009 we were too late...

CANON USA: New Version of DPP Available (Version 3.7.2)

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 21:32:33 -0500

10/19/2009 - Canon is not very vocal about their software udpates, so we'll lend them a helping hand here. Sometime in the last couple of days DPP 3.7.2 became available. The only significant change in 3.7.2 is the preview window for the noise reduction. Going by the comments in a couple user forums, some people say DPP seems slightly faster.

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER: Leica S2 Delayed until Early December

Mon, 19 Oct 2009 09:13:25 -0500

10/19/2010 - Amateur Photographer reports that the Leica S2 has been pushed out to week 50. According to Leica pre-orders have exceeded their expectations, so Leica is changing the S2 assembly line for improved daily production volumes. My own opinion here, but unexpected demand for a $30k USD camera in this economy? Huh...

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER: Electronic Viewfinders on dSLRs?

Wed, 14 Oct 2009 10:44:10 -0500

10/14/2009 - All the buzz these days are the micro 4/3's cameras like Panasonic GF-1 and Olympus EP-1. Personally, I like a more robust camera body with the typical SLR type couple controls dials, etc. However, the idea of having a small, pocket-type camera with interchangable lenses is attractive. Epson has announced 1.44 MP electronic viewfinder screen intended for mid and high end cameras. It sounds quite capable, so where will we see this new component's first application? PMA 2010?

ZEISS: Carl Zeiss Announces the Distagon T* 2/28 with Canon EF Bayonet

Mon, 12 Oct 2009 10:32:05 -0500

10/12/2009 - For the last year or so I have been on a Leica M8 kick. Now with the M9 shipping and its breathtaking $6,995 price tag (substitute your own definition for "breathtaking"), it is time to decide how serious this relationship really is. I did not pre-order a Leica M9 and in hindsight, I guess I should have. Oh well... Meanwhile here comes Zeiss. I am probably in the minority, but I like the Contax 18mm F4 Distagon, and now the new Zeiss 18mm F3.5 ZE is beginning to ship. And today Zeiss announced the 28mm F2 Distagon in ZE dress. Another of my favorites from the Contax era. Does this mean the 100mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE and 50mm F2 Makro-Planar ZE are just around the corner? So here is the burning question - Leica M9 or a chest full Zeiss ZE's? I am sure some people will point out that SLRs and M's are like comparing apples and oranges. But my wallet cannot afford apples "and" oranges. I can have apples "or" oranges, but not both... Choices, choices, choices...

IRIDIENT DIGITAL: RAW Developer 1.8.6 Now Available - Adds Leica M9 Profile

Fri, 09 Oct 2009 21:56:11 -0500

10/09/2009 - Iridient Digital released a maintenance update for their raw editor software - RAW Developer. Version 1.8.6 is a minor update, adding support for nine new camera models including the Nikon D300s, the Canon 7D, G11 and S90, the Sony DSLR-A850, DSLR-A550 and DSLR-A500, the Panasonic DMC-GF1 and the Leica M9. Improvements to the default ICC camera profiles for the Canon 50D and Nikon D300 have also been made. RAW Developer supports Hasselblad, Leaf, Sinar, Phase One, Mamiya and just about every dSLR and digital rangefinder file format. A free demo of version 1.8.6 can be downloaded from Iridient Digital's website. RAW Developer is Apple / Mac only. If you haven't tried RAW Developer yet, it is definitely worth downloading the free demo.

ROB GAILBRAITH: US National Parks - Fall Colors

Thu, 08 Oct 2009 12:45:05 -0500

10/08/2009- Rob Galbraith posted an interesting press release this morning from the US National Parks Foundation. The press release lists the parks (and timing) of the most photogenic parks for Fall 2009. The article caught my attention due to Acadia National Park in Maine. Last fall Christina and I traveled to Boston and did a loop - north to Maine, then back south on the inland side and then back east to Boston. Acadia Park was one of our first destinations and the colors were indeed quite lovely. We also visited Franconia Notch Park and Adirondack Park Reserve. Great colors all around. Our pictures can be found under Pictures --> Vacations --> Boston.

PEBBLE PLACE: Alaska Trip, Part II

Sun, 04 Oct 2009 00:38:26 -0500

10/04/2009 - Work (the real job) has been ridiculously busy for the past month and this is the first chance I have had to work on the Alaska pictures in nearly a month. Today's 135 Blog entry discusses what ended up being the "standard walk around kit" in Alaska, and also what did not work out as well as planned with the M8. The entry includes pictures from the first stop on the cruise, Ketchikan.

PEBBLE PLACE: Alaska Trip, Part I

Sat, 12 Sep 2009 22:33:06 -0500

9/12/2009 - Some of the first pictures from our trip to Alaska are now up. This first batch is from Vancouver Canada, the Alaska images will come later this month. The 135 Blog will be updated with some thoughts about what worked, what did not work and so forth. It was an interesting trip, and I wish I could have used the new Leica M9 for some of the pictures. Evidently PebblePlace.com is not among Leica's beta-tester elite group. Bummer...

AMATEUR PHOTOGRAPHER: Leica Refuses to Confirm M9 Launch

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:32:52 -0500

8/12/2009 - For the Leica community rumors of a forthcoming full-frame M9 have been all the buzz lately. Amateur Photographer published an update on August 5th, 2009 stating that Leica will neither confirm nor deny a forthcoming M9. The article has several more links at the bottom which document Leica's progress and statements regarding a full-frame digital M. For the M-minded, the articles offer some interesting reading.

LEITAX: Leica 28-90mm R Adapter Solution for Canon EOS

Wed, 12 Aug 2009 11:02:19 -0500

8/12/2009 - The Leica 28-90mm ASPH R has been a tricky to lens to adapt for use on Canon EF full-frame SLRs / dSLRs. Removing the lens plastic shroud on the rear of the lens addresses the clearance issue; however, there are mechanical risks in doing so. David Lladó of Leitax emailed today indicating Leitax has found a solution, so if you have the Leica 28-90mm R, contact Leitax for more information.

PEBBLE PLACE: Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM Lens Review

Tue, 11 Aug 2009 21:12:03 -0500

8/11/2009 - I have used the Zeiss 50mm F2 Planar ZM off and on with the Leica M8 for the past year. It has been one my favorite lenses, so I decided to do a quick write-up on the lens and compare it to some of the 50mm lenses I have used recently.

IRIDIENT DIGITAL: RAW Developer 1.8.4 Now Available

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 19:34:04 -0500

7/15/2009 - Iridient Digital released a maintenance update for their raw editor software - RAW Developer. RAW Developer Hasselblad, Leaf, Sinar, Phase One, Mamiya and just about every dSLR file format - even the Leica M8 DNGs. A free demo of version 1.8.4 can be downloaded from Iridient Digital's website. During past several months I have been impressed with RAW Developer's ability to suppress hot pixels in the Mamiya ZD files when shooting long exposures, and for maintaining smooth skin textures.

PEBBLE PLACE: Catching Up on the Leica S2

Wed, 15 Jul 2009 17:58:19 -0500

7/15/2009 - This past Monday the Leica S2 debuted at the Fotocare 2009 show in New York City. I expected the major gear websites would have some mention of the show and/or press coverage regarding the Lecia S2. Not much was said, so last night I searched the web for awhile and put together a short synopsis. If you have not been following the Leica S2, then today's 645 Blog entry will have you up to date in about two minutes.

HASSELBLAD: Hasselblad Debuts the CFV-39 Digital Back

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 11:01:35 -0500

7/14/2009 - On June 29th Hasselblad announced a new 39 MP CFV Digital Back for the Hasselblad V-system. The new CFV digital back has a 48mm x 36mm sensor which is a significant improvement over the original CFV I and II backs. The earlier CFV backs had a 36mm x 36mm square sensor and 16 MP. The new CFV-39 can also shoot in square mode which produces ~29 MP file. The GetDPI forums have running thread on the new back, click here.

BJP-ONLINE: Interview with Hasselblad's CEO

Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:00:00 -0500

7/14/2009 - Last week we learned that Franke & Heidecke was indeed closing their doors. The week prior, Phase announced the acquisition of select Leaf assets and personnel from Kodak Imaging. And there are rumors of Sinar making an announcement this week or next.

Today the British Journal of Photography published their exclusive interview with Hasselblad's CEO Christian Poulsen. Mr. Poulsen speculates these recent events may lead to the end of "open systems". Definitely worth reading if you are interested in digital medium format.

PEBBLE PLACE: Aggregated RSS feed for all the major gear websites

john@pebbleplace.com — Mon, 13 Jul 2009 18:00:54 -0500

7/13/2009 - PebblePlace.com has a new page for tracking DPreview, Image-Resource, Lets Go Digital, Luminous-Landscape and other major gear and equipment review websites. Instead of clicking from website to website, now you can see all of the respective RSS feeds aggregated into one, easy to read web page.

Also, a new RSS feed for PebblePlace.com has also been added to the front page for PebblePlace.com. Subscribe to the RSS feed to get the latest updates on PebblePlace and elsewhere around the web.