Recently I had the chance to attend a free workshop sponsored by Viltrox, hosted at Iron Ore Studios in Lebanon, PA featuring photographer/educators Jonny Edward and Pratik Naik.
First and foremost, Iron Ore Studios (owned by Rusty George and Nikki Lister) is a photographer’s paradise. Three massive floors in an old newspaper factory gives photographers and clients infinite creative possibilities limited only be your imagination. I can’t say enough good things about how this space is setup and I could easily have spent weeks there, never running out of ways to harness the natural light, the set designs, and the overall vibe.
The workshop was free, but it was less a workshop and more an opportunity to interact with other creatives and learn from master photographers like Jonny and Pratik. There were about 50-70 people filtering in and out throughout the day and I basically spent my time networking, soaking in the energy, and making a few frames here and there.Â
I was most impressed by the shots I was getting with the Viltrox 27mm f/1.2 lens that was free to try out. Coupled with the X-Mount Fuji H2S crop-sensor camera, I was getting insanely sharp and cinematic images without having to do any post-production. I kept the H2S in either black and white Acros film simulation or the Reala Ace profile and the resulting jpgs were exactly as I wanted.
The lens was mid-size for a fast prime, but the feel and balance on the camera was wonderful. Edge to edge sharpness was above average, and the auto-focus speed was magnificent. It quickly became something that I need in my camera bag at all times so I’ll be picking one up very soon.
Overall, Rusty, Nikki and the whole team put on an amazing event and even after the 12 hour car drive down from Maine, it was well worth the time spent. I absolutely cannot wait to get back there! Below are just a few of the frames I made throughout the day.
