Variable NDs, Lightroom delays, and why 35mm is forcing me out of my comfort zone

Week Two Check-In: The Good, The Frustrating, and The Unexpected
Two weeks of daily shooting with the RX1R III has been quite the journey. This camera is definitely growing on me, though it’s not without its quirks and challenges.
Get RX1R III Pricing and Availability
The Variable ND Reality Check
Took the RX1R to the local fair this week with the variable ND filter attached. Here’s what nobody tells you about shooting manual with a variable ND: it adds another layer of complexity when you’re trying to work fast. Between managing aperture, shutter speed, ISO, and the ND density, there’s a lot to juggle when moments are happening quickly around you. It’s doable, but it definitely slows down your reaction time compared to straight manual shooting.

Adobe’s Typical Lag
Speaking of frustrations – Adobe finally released Lightroom support for the RX1R III today. Finally. It’s genuinely annoying how much Lightroom lags behind with new camera support. I’ve been stuck using Camera RAW in Photoshop for processing, which works but disrupts my normal workflow. Now I can get back to my usual Lightroom editing routine.

The 35mm Challenge
The more I use this camera, the more I realize how much it’s stretching my photography. 35mm isn’t my go-to focal length, so every shot requires more intentional thinking about composition and subject distance. The digital crop feature is interesting but ultimately just a preview tool – when you shoot a “70mm portrait,” you’re still getting the perspective and depth of field characteristics of a 35mm lens. It’s useful for framing, but it’s not magic.
I’m planning a comparison between RX1R III cropped portraits and what I used to get with my Leica Q3 (which I sold – miss that 43mm lens already).

Carry Considerations
Tried wearing it on a camera strap this week instead of keeping it in a bag. Verdict: camera straps work great for professional shoots where you need quick access, but for casual daily carry, I end up accidentally banging the camera around too much. Back to the bag it goes.
The prefect bag for the RX1R III

The Bigger Picture
What’s surprising me most about this camera is how it’s changing my approach to photography. The fixed 35mm is forcing me to think differently about every shot – getting closer to subjects, being more aware of backgrounds, considering the wider field of view in my compositions. It’s like a photography exercise that I didn’t know I needed.
The RX1R III isn’t perfect, but it’s definitely making me a more intentional photographer. Sometimes the best gear is the gear that challenges you.
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