My passion for photography

I discovered a passion for photography in my 8th grade. I desperately wanted to join the school photography club, but unfortunately, my dad couldn't afford to buy me a camera at the time, which led me to tears.

Whenever my uncle brought his 1995 Kodak point and shoot camera for special occasions, I couldn't resist using it until I'd finished the remaining film. Decades later, here I am...

Welcome to my website! I'm Nirmal Perera, living in Auckland, New Zealand. Originally from Sri Lanka, I migrated to this beautiful country in 2015. By day, I write code to build the digital world; any other free time I get, I capture the beauty of the real one. Breathtaking mountains, enchanting coastlines, and everything in between - I love photographing it all.

Gears

  • Canon R6 Mark II

    Canon R6 Mark II was my first and natural choice of camera body. After an initial learning period with a Canon EOS Rebel T3i, the R6 Mark II was the latest in technology and affordability. I was drawn to high-quality photos even at higher ISO settings, weather sealant for outdoor excursions, and IBIS (in body image stabilisation).

    DJI OSMO Action 4

    This is an excellent camera for vlogging or behind-the-scenes videos. Thanks to its rugged design, I don’t have to worry about shooting in rain or snow. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, making it a perfect addition to my photography adventures. I use the DJI ND filter kit to maintain the frames per second and shutter speed when I shoot in bright day light.

  • My lens collection ranges from 15mm to 200mm across three lenses. However, when I go hiking, I usually carry only two lenses at a time. For landscape photography, my most common pair is the 15-35mm and the 70-200mm.

    RF 15-35L USM f/2.8

    This is my most used lens for landscape photography, and it produces exceptionally sharp images. With its f/2.8 aperture, it excels in low-light conditions and night sky photography.

    RF 24-105L USM f/4

    When I need to carry just one lens, this is my go-to choice. It offers a versatile focal range, with 24mm being wide enough for landscape shots and 105mm providing the reach I need. Although it's a kit lens, it has proven its versatility.

    RF 70-200L USM f/4

    I specifically chose F4 over F2.8 for its compact design and lightweightness when hiking long distances. This serves me well for isolating distant subjects and bringing the detail to the forefront

  • Camera Back Pack

    The latest addition to my collection is the Shimoda Explore V2 35L. An ideal backpack for day hikes, it offers great comfort carrying my gear uphill. The high-quality, all-terrain materials and padded inserts perfectly protect the camera gear.

    PGYTECH OneGo Air 20L. It has adjustable compartments and a side zip for easy access, with enough space for 2-3 lenses, camera body, and even provisions for a leisure walk or a quick stroll in the bush.

    Tripod

    I use the Heipi 3-in-1 carbon fibre travel tripod. It's compact, foldable, and lightweight. It fits perfectly on the backpack or even attached to the sling.

    Camera Sling

    When walking through town or out socialising, the PGYTECH OneGo Shoulder bag is handy to hold my favourite 24-105mm.

    iPhone 13 Pro Max

    I began as a mobile photographer before moving to an interchangeable lens camera. The iPhone is a great point and shoot tool with the benefit of capturing RAW images for post-production.

    Lens Filters

    Currently using Kase Revolution Professional Kit. The ND filter supports long exposure during the day and the CPL helps when photographing reflective objects.

    Zoom H1N Handy Recorder

    The Zoom H1N handy recorder is a recent addition to my collection. It's one of the most powerful yet portable field recorders, perfect for capturing ambient sounds while I’m out in the field.

  • Canon Pro-1000

    The Canon Pro 1000 produces fine art prints with spectacular colour accuracy and print archival quality. Its quick printing and can handle up to A2 size prints.

    Ilford Heavy Weight Photo Papers

    An affordable and everyday choice for high quality HDR (high dynamic range) prints and longevity of the finished product.

    Hahnemühle Fine Art Papers

    Hahnemühle fine art papers are a luxurious and appealing choice for texture of the paper. I am most drawn to the Bryta Photo Rag paper.

    Canson Fine Art Papers

    A slightly pricier choice compared to Ilford. The Photo Lustre Primium paper is one of my higher preferences.