I took these shots in France a couple of weeks ago. My friend, Rich Plumley, and I flew down, I had some shots to get in Bergerac and had arranged a meeting with a photo agency in Paris, so we decided to drive the 1000 miles back to the Isle of Man, via the capital. Things didn’t go quite to plan…
I’d organised to meet in a cafe near the Eiffel Tower at 5pm, by 4pm we were still 70 miles East of Paris. East, I know, we should have been South, but French sign posting isn’t great…OK, we got lost.
We finally hit the Périphérique, Paris’ infamous ring road, at 7pm. I phoned and cancelled the meeting and we continued our drive North toward the Channel Tunnel.
All the images were made on a Mamiya 645 Pro tl and 55mm lens. Film is Kodak Portra 160. I got the 55mm for a real bargain, it arrived the day before I left to go to France, it’s a fantastic lens. The 645 has now replaced 35mm as my ‘snap-shot’ format.
I love photography and I love road trips, the two were meant for each other. I think they should get married.
Great set of photos Phil.
Cheers Ottski
Excuse me while I succumb to camera lust.
Hahaha! It is a beauty, I have to say.
God, those greens and the rust look gorgeous! I’m gonna have to try me some Portra, finally.
To be honest, I’ve never achieved ‘the Portra look’ that I always wanted, until I got these back. A lot of shooters recommend rating the film at 100, but it doesn’t work for me.
These shots are amazing! Phil, you have a way of making the most mundane things look interesting, this is a very rare talent indeed.
Your final statement is absolutely spot on. Very nice pictures, I especially like the ones of the old car and the withered white door surrounded by ivy. I think it’s time for a road trip again…
Terrific set of images and inspirational for a road trip and film users. Just reverted to using my Leica, but look at 645, any tips as what to look out for ? Sorry I hope this is not too cheeky
Thank you!
I got my 645 with 80mm for about £350, it’s in absolute mint condition, and then added a 55mm, which I love.
I use the Pro tl on AEL and spot metering almost all the time, the metering is very accurate and this set-up suits my style of shooting.
Things to look out for? Well, I don’t think there’s many that have been abused by pro’s like the RZ,RB,etc were, so just keep your eye out for a good clean example. I’d recommend any of the newer Mamiya, Pentax and Contax models.
Morning Phil,
Thanks so much for this info it really is appreciated as I have always wanted to venture into 645 but I have been rather hesitant due to not knowing enough about the kit. I have been looking at Pentax 645n witt 75mm. Your work is inspirational and thanks for such a prompt reply
Yeah, the Pentax is great, superb glass. I’d avoid the original Mamiya 645 Pro as they suffer with jammed shutter curtains.
Cheers for this info
As always, I just want to stare at your work for hours. I think I’m starting to sound like a broken record.
Haha! No, I love broken records. Thank you.
These images have a very strong, modern editorial look to them. Your eye for composition is incredible.
Love this set! Especially the vehicle tag and the wine glasses on the table. Great!
Thank you!
hello Phil! I am new to your page but i am loving your work. it is truly motivating. thank you for sharing!
Thanks!
Hello! I’ve bookmarked your site because you have so cool posts here and I would like to read some more:)