Camera And Lenses Within Lego
- Piran John Miller
- Jan 24, 2025
- 2 min read
I think perhaps the most commonly asked question I get is 'what camera do I use?'
Creating works with Lego does pose some unique challenges when it comes to cameras and techniques. Some will know I work in Film and TV, within the camera department, I have used much of what I have seen in my career, miniaturised it and applied it to the hobby we enjoy. Lego (Star Wars) Photography.
When people ask me which camera I use, I do usually tell them I prefer to work with Sony. I think Sony produce great cameras at every level, from commercial all the way up to what I use on large film sets. However what I usually ask people when talking cameras is 'what is it that you are hoping to achieve with your works?' this will of course affect the advice I would give them.
However it is more often about the lens, most camera bodies are capable of capturing great images however the lens is the real key. The lens is what is going to allow you to achieve your works. Most people want to get real close up to bring their Lego to life, not to mention the portraits. This is one of the main challenges of working with a small subject matter. The lens I use is the Sony 90mm Macro, capable of shooting at 1:1
What is 1:1? If you image taking a photograph of a coin, your camera sensor is the size of your photograph. 1:1 is essentially the equivalent of placing the coin on the sensor, so if the coin covers half of the sensor it will make up half of your image. So within the context of Lego Photography this is indeed very close, I myself rarely need to use it at close focus, It is simply too close. Although now and again it can look good. If the subject matter works. This image of the Armourer is an example of this lens at its closest focus...
Obviously Camera equipment can be costly and it is a big factor for most people. But there are usually options to fit most budgets, a favourite of mine to keep costs down is second hand ex-professional kit. A place I often check is MPB, ex-professional equipment with various condition grades.
I am always happy to share camera advice with people on Instagram, as best I can at least. That is what is so great about this hobby, the technology moves forward along with the Lego and with the skills. I am worlds away now from where I was when I first started, and I am sure I will look back someday at this article and think the exact same thing. This is the way...