We’re in California for several more days. The cats are enjoying themselves at home. But no worries. Feline Friday is here on time and on budget, as they say.

One thing different about this week. Most of these photos were taken with my 11-year old Sony RX1 camera, the others with my iPhone 15 Pro.

The Sony is the oldest of my current crop of digital cameras. My copy was purchased new about 9 years ago. It’s kind of worn, shows it has been well used, and some berate it online for trying to still be relevant when photo tech has changed so much over thoe years. But it remains one of my favorites. It’s one I often carry when traveling because of its relatively small size for a full frame camera (meaning a larger than typical sensor). It is built around a very capable but fixed 35mm Carl Zeiss Sonnar lens. No changing lens, and no zoom. Well, there is a manual zoom. Meaning moving camera and yourself toward or away from the subject to frame it properly.

It is much slower to focus than a contemporary digital camera, but I remember how happy I was with the old Canon digital that was new back when our Tabby Point Siamese, Duke, and his sister, were born in 2002. Ancient by today’s standards. You couldn’t rely on the camera focusing in time to capture a moment with the kittens. You were forced to anticipate the moment, and have the camera ready. It was a good learning experience.

You can buy a used version of the RX1 today for $800-$900. If you don’t need the latest tech, and aren’t into sports photography or birding, this camera is a joy despite its age. Ah, I’m showing my bias!

In any case, here come the cats.