So I'm back with film; traded out my Fuji GFX gear 'cause really... I would shoot with my Fuji X gear if I needed digital's advantages, but if I want to shoot something for myself, something creative.... the GFX just didn't add anything per se in terms of fun. Yes, I like the 3-D analog sort of fun for the odd reason that I work at computers too much as it is that in my off time, analog is a joy. And tes GFX system is wonderful gear made in Japan and extremely high quality manufacture worth every penny, but it was also something I didn't take out and use often because it seemed like overkill. Absolutely loved the glass of that system... from the ergonomics, the touch and feel, and epecially the quality of the images. But I'm far from a photographic Picasso.
So I've kept the X gear for digital... and replaced the GFX with Pentax 645N and Mamiya RB67 Pro SD where the Pro SD is used as a stand-in for 4X5 and I am NOT trying to make it a walk-around ('cause 645 can manage that just fine). Still working out the kinks... but generally happier. Gear $ per item is a lot more reasonable not "my precious" and more inclined to get picked up and used. Reputation as workhorses pushed these guys to the fore over some other choices (no offense to Hassy lovers)... and I guess (for now) I'm trialing the idea that gear-for-purpose might be a better approach than one-size-fits-all. Yes.... there are annoying things about this approach.... like "where's XYZ?" when I need it, but overall it seems to be working. Until it doesn't (yes, we all have a theory until our Mike-Tyson-reality punches us in the face). So hoping to give up the GAS for a while. Open questions: Can MF become my small format, or is it just a means to easing my way back toward my 4X5 again? Yes, I have a freezer full of both size films.... so time willl tell. More discussion than you bargained on... but this is the full story. And yes, one day I might pick up a MF digital again... and use the Pentax 645 glass. But not soon.