To celebrate the opening of GR Official English site, we received a message from Robert Adachi, one of the GRist.

He will be writing for us from time to time. Enjoy!



Hi. My name is Robert. I’m an artist and work primarily with photograph and music.

In my career, I’ve used most of both film and digital GR cameras and lenses. My first and most favorite of all is the GR21- the analogue GR camera with the legendary 21mm lens. 15 years ago, when I developed the first roll of film that I had shot with it, I fell in love with this little monster.

In November 2007, I traveled with it in France and England. It was my “last travel with Kodachrome.” With many roles of Tri-X black and white films, I took the remaining three roles of Kodachrome 64 positive color films.

　
As I walked along the pier, I saw the light coming through the thick clouds. Although it was not very bright, it was powerful. Then I picked up my GR21 from my bag and took two shots I believe.

I was alone and had no one to talk to. So when I was holding it, I was communicating with it and sharing the beauty in front of me.

Many people (especially in Japan) have an impression that the GR lens is contrasty because of our hero Daido Moriyama. Many of his masterpieces have been taken with the GR21 and are high in contrast.

But once you use it, you will probably be surprised how rich tones can be made out of its small body.

Its interface is very simple but provides you with just enough to take good photographs. I love the simplicity of it.

Whether it’s analogue or digital, I have the same feelings towards the GRs. They all have similar rich tones and simplicity.

I have traveled with the GRs in many places. In my posts, I will show you the photos and write about my experiences with and thoughts on them. So, stay tuned.

(Robert)