One handed photography

Greedier

Greedier

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I'm looking to buy a new camera as my existing D300s weighing in at over 800g body only is too heavy to hold, so i'm going to sell it and downsize. September last year i suffered a stroke resulting in me loosing the use of my left hand and severe weakness in my left leg. I can now walk again and need to everyday to re-train my leg, but it's a bit boring and i'd like to get back into photography to make it slightly more enjoyable.

I need a smaller camera preferably with inter-changable lenses, i'll be using primes only. Needs to be around 500-650g max with lens. Possibly go mirrorless?

I'm drawn to cameras with knobs and dials as i think they may be easier to change when the cameras' hanging round my neck, but i'm not ruling out the an electronic menu system though. Off course visiting a shop to try out cameras would be a good option but i'd like to have an idea before i go.

- Anyone using smaller cameras find they can operate it easily with one hand?
- Any specific equipment i could use to make life easier
 
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image.jpeg image.jpeg image.jpeg image.jpeg image.jpeg Hi,

The Nikon J5 might be an option.

20Mp
2.7 Crop Factor
Touchscreen

XD card could be a Problem.

Regards.
 
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To match the criteria, you need to look at the Sony alpha range, no extra grip required for one handed operation most of the time, although the lens choice is limited and as large as your Nikon. You could look at the Olympus Em1 or if you choose to purchase a grip then look at the Olympus Em5 mk2.

Choosing Olympus gives you a larger range of smaller lenses.
 
Sadly the Fuji XT-1 will be to heavy once a lens is added.

The XT - 10 is lighter but you still have the problem of lenses that are relatively speaking heavy for people like yourself and me.

I eventually went back to micro four thirds as a compromise.
Specifically the Olympus Pen F, now I had several reasons for going this route.

1 - The pen F is light yet solidly made, it weighs in at 427g
2 - Though there is no contoured grip its surprisingly easy to hold and there is the option of buying the grip for it as well ( I did)
3 - The front and rear dials adjust every perameter on the camera and even move between menu options but even better is they are automatically mapped to do so what ever setting or menu screen you are in and make adjusting ISO, Aperture and Shutter speed so easy its untrue and on top of that you have a dedicated exposure compensation dial. I should add these same dials are also mapped to adjust the focus point and its so easy to move it, in fact the easiest I've ever encountered.
4 - There are 4, yes 4 custom mode options on the mode dial that allow you to program absolutely everything and store it so it can be recalled just by switching to that mode.
Mine are set for 2 different B&W modes, colour wildlife and colour portrait.
5 - The lenses are so small and light its incredible with both the 45mm F1.8 (90-mm equivalent) and 60mm f2.8 macro (120mm equivalent 1:1 macro) weighing in at under 200g

I should also mention the grip for this camera also has the edges milled so it also becomes an Arca Swiss compatible plate, so no need for extra plates if using with a tripod.
I was concerned about moving to M43 as my last foray with then (OMD EM1) left me unimpressed with the iQ, but the pen F has improved markedly over previous models and the extra resolution of the 20mp sensor for some odd reason really works (I've always felt anything over 16mp would increase sensor noise).
Ok so the high ISO images aren't as good as with the larger formats but the images are still more than usable up to/including ISO 3200 and if you can lower the ISO you can get fantastic images with it.
The camera is certainly a looker and should satisfy your desire for knobs and dials with its awesome retro looks an added bonus.
Olympus also have a great range of fast, lightweight primes & zooms.

I'm severely disabled myself and have big problems handling weight, any recommendations I make are founded on my own experience of the product not what I read online.
I've owned an XT-1, I sold it and bought the pen F for the reasons stated and its not disappointed me so far.
It can easily be used one handed and the grip just makes that easier as does the fully articulating rear screen.
If your around the central essex area and want to pop in and try mine, inbox me and we can sort something out.
 
dibbly dobbler said:
Fuji XT-1 is pretty light and comes with some really nice primes - not sure about one handed use but reckon you could give it a go :)
Click to expand...

Thanks for the rec, i'm actually quite fond of fuji and been looking at the Xt-1, may be good with the 35 f2.. just googled the weight and its 778g body only :(

canonbabie said:
Hi,

The Nikon J5 might be an option.

Regards.
Click to expand...

Thanks for the reply, im not sure about the manual controls on this but i'll check out some reviews!
 
I just got an X-T1, I'd say it's useable with 1 hand. The dials are all clear and easy to adjust. For my hands the body is a touch on the small side to be comfortable in just my right hand. I'm looking at getting a battery grip to combat this, the prime lenses are all great and light. The X-T1 would be a good choice.
 
would something like this provide a support system
upload_2016-4-14_0-51-26.jpeg
 
i can use a sigma dp one handed, and the leaf shutter helps with that, but i think nearly any camera you will have to try and use it and see how stuff feels and works with your limitations :/

I tried to emulate your use case and if you can move your left hand onto your tummy (like broken arm in a sling type position), or have a bum bag/fanny pack or something, or just get pregnant / eat all the pies, then having that surface to rest the camera while u adjust settings (thats the key part imo) makes a huge difference
 
I have disabilities and I found the XT1 and 35mm f1.4 lens comfortable to use one handed. Not sure what your long term prognosis is, but will you be able to get back to your strength before the stroke? I looked at some of the M4/3 cameras and for me, who has large hands, I found the buttons to small and fiddly for me.

I have since changed back to a DSLR for the longer lenses available for wildlife photography in the garden, but when funds allow I will buy a XT1 again.
 
magicaxeman said:
Sadly the Fuji XT-1 will be to heavy once a lens is added.

The XT - 10 is lighter but you still have the problem of lenses that are relatively speaking heavy for people like yourself and me.

I eventually went back to micro four thirds as a compromise.
Specifically the Olympus Pen F, now I had several reasons for going this route.

1 - The pen F is light yet solidly made, it weighs in at 427g
2 - Though there is no contoured grip its surprisingly easy to hold and there is the option of buying the grip for it as well ( I did)
3 - The front and rear dials adjust every perameter on the camera and even move between menu options but even better is they are automatically mapped to do so what ever setting or menu screen you are in and make adjusting ISO, Aperture and Shutter speed so easy its untrue and on top of that you have a dedicated exposure compensation dial. I should add these same dials are also mapped to adjust the focus point and its so easy to move it, in fact the easiest I've ever encountered.
4 - There are 4, yes 4 custom mode options on the mode dial that allow you to program absolutely everything and store it so it can be recalled just by switching to that mode.
Mine are set for 2 different B&W modes, colour wildlife and colour portrait.
5 - The lenses are so small and light its incredible with both the 45mm F1.8 (90-mm equivalent) and 60mm f2.8 macro (120mm equivalent 1:1 macro) weighing in at under 200g

I should also mention the grip for this camera also has the edges milled so it also becomes an Arca Swiss compatible plate, so no need for extra plates if using with a tripod.
I was concerned about moving to M43 as my last foray with then (OMD EM1) left me unimpressed with the iQ, but the pen F has improved markedly over previous models and the extra resolution of the 20mp sensor for some odd reason really works (I've always felt anything over 16mp would increase sensor noise).
Ok so the high ISO images aren't as good as with the larger formats but the images are still more than usable up to/including ISO 3200 and if you can lower the ISO you can get fantastic images with it.
The camera is certainly a looker and should satisfy your desire for knobs and dials with its awesome retro looks an added bonus.
Olympus also have a great range of fast, lightweight primes & zooms.

I'm severely disabled myself and have big problems handling weight, any recommendations I make are founded on my own experience of the product not what I read online.
I've owned an XT-1, I sold it and bought the pen F for the reasons stated and its not disappointed me so far.
It can easily be used one handed and the grip just makes that easier as does the fully articulating rear screen.
If your around the central essex area and want to pop in and try mine, inbox me and we can sort something out.
Click to expand...

Thanks you for your insight, its good to hear from someone in a similar situation!

I'd not really considered M43, but i like the sound of the custom modes for easy switching and lighter lenses, articulating screen too will help. I've got small hands so i think it would be more comfortable. This and maybe a 25 1.8 looks like a nice package for a bit of street photography. I'll definitely be trying this out.. I live in north west London so essex it a tad far but thanks for the offer!
 
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Mark G said:
My kitchen scales read the following:

X-T1 body (and battery) = 437 grams
X-T1 & XF60 = 656 grams
X-T1 & XF35 (f/1.4) = 622 grams
X-T1 & XF18 = 555 grams
Click to expand...

Mark, thank you for weighing that up, i must admit i was half asleep when checking :ROFLMAO:, it's also at a good price point for me, i'm thinking to couple it with either a 27 f2.8 or 35f2 and it'll fall nicely within my weight limit. I really do like fuji, i used to own a S5 pro about many years ago and loved the colour reproduction! I'm going to do some research into the programmable buttons as i think that'll really help.
 
My X-E2 with the 18mm comes in at just under 500g and feels pretty light and I have no problem using it one-handed. I imagine it would be even less with the 27mm.
 
One idea I picked up somewhere that could lend itself to one-handed photography is use of a fishing butt rest around your waist, with a monopod attached to the camera. Just rest the end of the monopod in the butt rest and it gives good support.

This was being used by someone doing motor racing photography and they swore by it, especially in crowds where even conventional use of a monopod could be a trip hazard. I use it for convenience occasionally and can confirm that it does provide a secure platform.
 
pingu666 said:
i can use a sigma dp one handed, and the leaf shutter helps with that, but i think nearly any camera you will have to try and use it and see how stuff feels and works with your limitations :/

I tried to emulate your use case and if you can move your left hand onto your tummy (like broken arm in a sling type position), or have a bum bag/fanny pack or something, or just get pregnant / eat all the pies, then having that surface to rest the camera while u adjust settings (thats the key part imo) makes a huge difference
Click to expand...

Yes i agree i'm planning to get to a camera store and test some cameras out, possibly rent some for a few weekends before i make a decision.
I can move my arm across my body but i have difficulty holding it there as i've lost fine motor control, i plan to have the camera hang from my neck so i can change settings and also bring it up to my eye

Swanseajack said:
I have disabilities and I found the XT1 and 35mm f1.4 lens comfortable to use one handed. Not sure what your long term prognosis is, but will you be able to get back to your strength before the stroke? I looked at some of the M4/3 cameras and for me, who has large hands, I found the buttons to small and fiddly for me.

I have since changed back to a DSLR for the longer lenses available for wildlife photography in the garden, but when funds allow I will buy a XT1 again.
Click to expand...

I've been told that i'll get some recovery but it probably won't be back to full strength so just have to wait and see. I do like the XT1 and also the PenF, with smaller hands i need to see with one fits best..
 
JohnX said:
One idea I picked up somewhere that could lend itself to one-handed photography is use of a fishing butt rest around your waist, with a monopod attached to the camera. Just rest the end of the monopod in the butt rest and it gives good support.

This was being used by someone doing motor racing photography and they swore by it, especially in crowds where even conventional use of a monopod could be a trip hazard. I use it for convenience occasionally and can confirm that it does provide a secure platform.
Click to expand...

Ohhh thats a great idea! I did once see an ad on youtube for a purpose made jig to do this, can't recall the name but it was silly money.. Where could one purchase something like this, would it just attach to your belt?
 
EM-10 MK II?

Body - 342g inc battery
17mm Pancake - 71g
14-42 - 93g
14-150 - 280g
 
Or... up to 6kgs!

1.0x0.jpg


http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/6KG-load-...648213?hash=item1e90efb815:g:vGEAAOSwiLdV98rr
 
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Greedier said:
Mark, thank you for weighing that up, i must admit i was half asleep when checking :ROFLMAO:, it's also at a good price point for me, i'm thinking to couple it with either a 27 f2.8 or 35f2 and it'll fall nicely within my weight limit. I really do like fuji, i used to own a S5 pro about many years ago and loved the colour reproduction! I'm going to do some research into the programmable buttons as i think that'll really help.
Click to expand...

No problem, the 27mm is by far the smallest lens so would be the lightest combination. I took my X-T1 out today and purposely kept my left hand in my pocket. I didn't have any troubles apart from reviewing images. They will display after shooting but if you want to check again you won't reach the play button with just your right hand. It's a shame too that the play button is not programmable as one of the function buttons.

Exposure is easily adjusted with either s***ter speed on the front command dial or by using the exposure compensation dial on top.
 
jakeblu said:
My X-E2 with the 18mm comes in at just under 500g and feels pretty light and I have no problem using it one-handed. I imagine it would be even less with the 27mm.
Click to expand...
Thanks for the info, I like the look of the X-E2, i'm going to check it out in store, it has quite a few buttons on the left and i'll see how easy i can access them
 
Something like this ( http://www.toolstation.com/shop/p94038 ) and a monopod would probably be cheaper and if you click on the page of items on the right of the tool belt, there are a few other options. To get you back out and taking photos, a bridge camera might be an option and some of them are definitely useable one handed ("luckily", you have use of your right hand and that's the one most cameras are aimed at.) After having a brain tumour removed a few years ago, I bought a Fuji bridge (HS30 IIRC) which got me out shooting again while I was unable to concentrate and deal with lens changes.

Might be worth contacting the Disabled Photographers Society and seeing what advice they can offer.

All the best with your recovery.
 
Mark G said:
No problem, the 27mm is by far the smallest lens so would be the lightest combination. I took my X-T1 out today and purposely kept my left hand in my pocket. I didn't have any troubles apart from reviewing images. They will display after shooting but if you want to check again you won't reach the play button with just your right hand. It's a shame too that the play button is not programmable as one of the function buttons.

Exposure is easily adjusted with either s***ter speed on the front command dial or by using the exposure compensation dial on top.
Click to expand...

Thats good to hear and thanks for trying that! I'll probably stick to aperture mode most of the time, i assume this can be done on the lens or assigned to a dial? I don't think the play button being on the left will be that much of an issue as its near the top and i can just reach over, if it was on the bottom it would be difficult. Is the focus point adjustable by touch screen or is it be done by a dial? I think i might rent this one for a day, £23 a day from jessops + £10 for the 35mm.
 
Have a look at the Panasonic G6 and the two powered zooms Panasonic make, ones 14-42 and the other is 45-175 I think. But when used with the G6 there is a small button near the shutter button which can be used to operate the zoom of the lens.
 
Nod said:
Something like this ( http://www.toolstation.com/shop/p94038 ) and a monopod would probably be cheaper and if you click on the page of items on the right of the tool belt, there are a few other options. To get you back out and taking photos, a bridge camera might be an option and some of them are definitely useable one handed ("luckily", you have use of your right hand and that's the one most cameras are aimed at.) After having a brain tumour removed a few years ago, I bought a Fuji bridge (HS30 IIRC) which got me out shooting again while I was unable to concentrate and deal with lens changes.

Might be worth contacting the Disabled Photographers Society and seeing what advice they can offer.

All the best with your recovery.
Click to expand...

Thanks, found this on their site http://www.speedgraphic.co.uk/clamps_arms_etc/novoflex_pistockc_chestpod/8414_p.html

Good to hear you've got back into photography, luckily i'm right handed too so i've managed to get back to doing most of my usual things. I've considered a bridge but i've not found one that gives me the freedom i had when i used the d300, i know i have to compromise now so i'm going to try the downsize first.
 
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Mark G said:
The focus point is a programmable function button. I have mine set to down arrow to bring up the AF point selector, then you simply use the direction arrows with your right thumb to choose the AF point. The X-T1 does not have touch screen.
Click to expand...

He can also setup any arrow on the direction pad to activate AF points.
 
Thank you all for your input, reminds me how great this community is!:clap:

I've narrowed it down to:

- Fuji XT1 or XT10 & 35 f2
- Olympus Pen-f & 17mm 1.8
- Fuji XE-2s & 35 f2

I'm also going to try the Xpro 2 although its slightly bulkier it seem to have a larger grip which may be easier to balance the body and all the buttons are conveniently on the right..

I sold most of my nikon lenses and just have my D300s, SB900 and my beloved tammy 28-75 2.8 all of which i was trying to hold on to but going to sell it now to make way for new kit!

:ty:
 
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Shame you're up in that there LungDung rather than down this way! If you were closer, I'd let you have a play with a couple of options.

Looking at the X-T1 on the table in front of me, I see that all the most used buttons are on the right hand side, with just the ISO dial, drive selector switch, delete and play buttons on the left. Even with the big and bulky (for Fuji!) 100-400, the other dials and buttons can be operated with just the right hand, although using the left arm (not sure if that's an option for you) makes shutter speed changes easier. The button lock on the X-T1 might prove slightly awkward but a combination of setting the thing to A in terms of SS and aperture then controlling the relationship with the thumb wheel and exposure compensation dial would make that point moot anyway.

Happy shopping and (as said before) all the best with your recovery.
 
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