My journey with Olympus

Hello to all the readers of Olympus Passion Magazine! I’m Pavel Pětroš from the northeastern part of the Czech Republic, where I live with my family. My main passion is photography, but when I’m not behind the lens, I love biking and spending time in our family’s mountain cabin.

My love for photography began around 1999 during my university days. My first serious camera was the Canon EOS 300 SLR. Initially, I focused on documenting family gatherings and trips. Over time, I experimented with various DSLRs from Canon and Nikon before switching to the Olympus system.

In the early days, I enjoyed photographing anything that caught my eye, like landscapes and close-ups. But my interest deepened when I discovered Flickr. I was drawn to New Topographic photography, which showcases human impact on landscapes. Later, my focus shifted to street photography, capturing the essence of everyday life.

When it comes to taking photos, my triggers vary. Sometimes I’m drawn to urban decay or industrial settings. Other times, I’m inspired by the light and atmosphere of a location. I always carry my camera with me, ready to capture moments as they unfold.

One of my recent projects was titled “Melancholia,” featuring street photos with intentional blur. This project allowed me to express my emotions through photography.

My transition from DSLR to mirrorless wasn’t straightforward. After my DSLR was stolen, I started using a Sony point-and-shoot, which led me to appreciate the flexibility of compact cameras. I eventually switched to the Olympus XZ-10 and later to the OM-D E-M10 Mark II. I’ve stuck with Olympus due to its compact size, image quality, and affordability.

Currently, I use the OM-D E-M10 Mark II paired with the Olympus 17mm F2.8 pancake lens. It’s a versatile setup that I take everywhere.

While gear is important, I believe the focus should be on storytelling, composition, and capturing the moment. The latest camera isn’t always necessary to create meaningful images.

Always having a camera on hand is crucial. Unique moments can be fleeting, and having a dedicated camera ensures you don’t miss out.

In conclusion, photography is more than just a hobby for me – it’s a way of life. Whether I’m capturing the beauty of nature or the hustle and bustle of city life, I find joy in documenting the world around me through the lens of my Olympus camera.