My name is Julia, and I’m based in a small village near Munich, Germany. On Instagram, I share my photography under the name shadesofgrainy.
I started with landscape photography in 2021, then spent quite some time focusing on macro and flowers. Over the years, my perspective slowly shifted. Today, I’m mainly drawn to street and everyday life photography — capturing quiet moments that often go unnoticed.
For me, it’s not just about creating images, but about slowing down and seeing things differently.
RIGHT: Fuji X-T4 . Fuji XF33mmF1.4 . F/2.5 . 1/2900″ . ISO 320
RIGHT: Fuji X100VI . F/2.8 . 1/2900″ . ISO 500
Since I live in a rural area and have a small child, I don’t travel as much as I used to. At first, that felt limiting. But over time, it changed the way I approach photography completely.
Instead of searching for special places, I started noticing what’s already there: light falling through a window, small details at home, simple everyday scenes.
Many of my favorite images happen this way — unplanned and spontaneous. Most of the time, I just carry a camera with me and photograph whatever catches my eye.
Light is probably my biggest source of inspiration, along with the changing seasons. At the same time, I love cities and short trips. Being in a different environment always gives me a fresh perspective and new energy to observe.
Through my photography, I try to create a calm, nostalgic feeling because I’m drawn to an analogue, nostalgic look — something quiet, slightly imperfect, and real. Especially with film, there’s always a sense of surprise. Often, I appreciate the photos even more after some time has passed. They start to feel like memories.
Photography, for me, is like a short escape from everyday life — a moment of calm in between.
RIGHT: Fuji X100VI . F/2.0 . 1/11000″ . ISO 500
My equipment
- Fujifilm X100VI
- Fujifilm X-T4
- Fujifilm X-M5
- Fujinon XF 33mm f/1.4
- Fujinon XF 60mm f/2.4 Macro
- Fujinon XF 70–300mm
- Viltrox 75mm f/1.2
- Rolleiflex 3.5F
- Nikon L35AF
- Minolta X-700 with 50mm f/1.7
What is always with me
Most of the time, I carry my Fujifilm X100VI with me. It’s my everyday camera — small, unobtrusive, and perfect for capturing spontaneous moments.
Alongside it, I usually bring either my Fujifilm X-M5 with the Viltrox 75mm f/1.2 or one of my analog cameras. I really enjoy switching between digital and film, depending on the mood and situation.
When I go out more intentionally, I sometimes bring an additional setup, but I generally try to keep things minimal. I don’t like carrying too much gear — I prefer to stay flexible and focused on what’s happening around me.
For me, photography is not about having the perfect equipment.
It’s about noticing moments, being present, and capturing a feeling before it’s gone.
The post What’s in my camera bag – Julia appeared first on Fuji X Passion.