My dream photo kit: portraits and products

Karyn Louise is a multi-genre photographer based in the southeast of England, and works in everything from product photography to music and theatre. She currently uses a mix of Nikon DSLR and mirrorless gear, maximizing the versatility of each format.

"Both Nikon bodies excel in low light and live performance photography," Karyn remarks. "Having two bodies enables me to use 24-70mm and 70-200mm lenses without swapping. The 24-70mm is versatile for wide to tight shots, while the 70-200mm is great for fast-moving subjects. My 20mm lens is perfect for protests while my star filters add creative flair."

Many photographers today operate DSLR and mirrorless systems side-by-side, using
a proprietary lens mount adaptor to use older lenses on newer camera bodies. Having recently tested the Fujifilm X-Series cameras, Karyn was impressed with their blend of performance and portability.

"I tested the Fujifilm kit during the busy festival season, and it excelled in various lighting conditions, especially low light. The XT4 / 5's film simulation feature brought me joy and made my work easier. Having these built into my camera will enable me to add variety to my portfolio in terms of style."

Karyn Louise

Specialisms: Products, events, branding, still life

Years active: 12

Clients: Rolling Stone, Grazia, The Guardian, The Times

Location: London

Karyn's current kit

1) Nikon Z6 II
Time used: 4 years
A popular Z-system camera, this model is designed for pros and enthusiasts. The full-frame sensor gives Karyn great low-light quality.

2) Nikon D750
Time used: 8 years
A fan-favorite Nikon DSLR, this was the lightest full-frame camera that the company produced. It offers detailed 24.3MP images and pro handling.

3) AF-S Nikkor 70-200mm f/2.8 VR S
Time used: 7 years
This is a go-to professional Nikon "trinity" lens, featuring a constant aperture, quality optics and effective VR.

4) Nikkor Z 24-70mm f/4 S
Time used: 2 years
Karyn’s standard zoom lens for the Z6 II, it covers all the main standard focal lengths in a lightweight package.

5) Nikon SB700 Speedlight
Time used: 5 years
Karyn often shoots in poor light, so this external flashgun enables her to fill in shadows and keep her subjects sharp after dark.

Karyn's dream kit

1) Fujifilm X-H2S
MPB says:
"The Fujifilm X-H2S features Fujifilm's 26.16MP X-Trans CMOS 5 HS imaging sensor, with a signal readout speed up to four times faster than the X-TransTM CMOS 4."

2) Fujifilm X-T5
MPB says:
"Almost a decade after the X-T1, Fujifilm's latest imaging technology has come to the X-T5, bringing photographers unrivaled image quality in a timeless, classic body."

3) Fujifilm XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR
MPB says:
"Normally a zoom lens prioritizes convenience over quality, but this lens has image quality comparable to a prime."

4) Fujifilm XF 50-140mm f/2.8 R LM OIS WR
MPB says:
"OIS (optical image stabilization) minimizes vibration, while the large maximum aperture gives rich bokeh and high-speed AF keeps up with any movement."

5) Fujifilm XF 50mm f/2 R WR
MPB says:
"A mid-telephoto lens with a focal length equivalent to 76mm that delivers the very best results from Fujifilm’s unique X-Trans CMOS sensor."

Karyn's trade-in options

MPB suggests an extra dream kit item, and how Karyn might trade-in to get it…

Fujifilm XF 90mm f/2 R LM WR
This medium telephoto lens is equipped with a wide aperture to enable handheld shooting in the lower-light conditions that Karyn encounters when shooting live performances. It also enables tight background control through shallow depth of field, which is ideal for portraiture, brand and still life photography. On a Fujifilm APS-C camera, the lens offers a 135mm equivalent focal length thanks to the 1.5x crop factor.

Why this item?
The Fujifilm XF 90mm f/2 R LM WR is an ideal lens for portrait photographers due to its flattering telephoto equivalent focal length. Meanwhile its fast, constant f/2 maximum aperture delivers excellent subject isolation and beautiful bokeh. The lens boasts outstanding sharpness and contrast, rapid and accurate autofocus, and weather resistance, making it versatile for the various shooting conditions inside and out, which Karyn might find as cross-genre photographic expert.

Trade-in Option
While there are a few options, Karyn could trade in her 24-70mm Nikon lens should she choose to switch over to the Fujifilm X-System completely. This focal range would now be covered by the XF 16-55mm f/2.8 R LM WR lens, so the addition of the 90mm f/2 would introduce a new fast prime, extending the possibilities of Karyn’s kit across multiple genres.