My "magnolia experiment" is entering its tenth year: Since 2014, every year – whenever I'm at home – I've photographed the blooming magnolia tree in our garden. I'm pursuing the theory that, on the one hand, my perception changes, and the style of the images is also influenced by the camera I use to create them. I consciously try to use a variety of cameras. In the nine years since, I've used eight different cameras.

This year, I shot with one camera and two prime lenses, and I wanted to create a series that was consistent in mood. To achieve this, I also worked with Adobe Lightroom's new AI masks.

Here's the updated gallery with the most recent shots. If you scroll down, you'll also see older shots, dating back to 2014. For the camera freaks, I've noted which camera I used.

2023
Leica SL2 with the two fixed focal lengths SL 35 mm and SL 90 mm

I limited myself to two fixed focal lengths.

2022
Leica S3, Leica SL2, Sony a1

For the first time, I photographed with more than one camera. Variety is the spice of life ;-).

2021
Leica SL2

In 2021, I missed the flowering period, so the yield was relatively poor.

2020
Leica SL2

2019
Fujfilm GFX100

2018
Leica CL

2017
Panasonic GH5

2016
Leica SL

The Leica SL was definitely a boost for my photography. Mirrorless photography with targeted over- and underexposure was (and still is) a brilliant experience. Moreover, the only lens available at the beginning—the SL 24-90mm—exhibited a quality that I had previously only experienced with prime lenses in the 35mm DSLR range.