The Leica Q was just the right camera for me
“I realised I was a photographer when I was 40”
My name is Victor M. Perez. I was born in Madrid, and I’ve lived in Doha, Qatar, since 2021. I work with clients in the energy sector as a partner of an international service company. Photography plays a big role in my life. It’s a part of my life every day.
Although I’ve always loved photography, I didn’t realise I was a photographer until I was 40. Since then, I've taken my vocation seriously and try to maintain the values that my photography mentors taught me.
Small bag, wide scope
Whether for business or pleasure, I always travel light on short trips. Since I usually only have a few hours for photography when I travel, I only take my Leica Q2, an extra battery, a few SD cards, a sun hat and a bottle of water.
The story behind the picture
This shot was taken on my Leica Q’s maiden voyage. It’s not my first successful image, but it’s the first one taken with a Leica. It’s subjective and simple, but a very expressive image. The shot taught me how everyday situations and small gestures can easily be enhanced with colour. To represent types. For example, in this image, of an exploding head.
My style
The best technique is to train your photographic eye and understand your unique point of view. That comes through mentors, but especially from practice on the road. I make photographs in any weather and at any time, but I prefer to shoot at the golden and the blue hour. I linger in expressive places and look for the small moments that are constantly happening everywhere.
My camera
In 2015, the Leica Q was just the camera I needed to learn the craft and possibilities of manual photography at my own pace. And with it, the legendary characteristics of the M series. Today, I shoot with both the Leica M10-P and the Leica Q2.
My Leica feeling
Leica fascinates me in three ways. First and foremost, the people who belong to the Leica family and represent values like togetherness. Secondly, the outstanding cameras, their results and the individual process when taking photographs. And, last but not least, the fact that people are always the focus at Leica.
