Don McCullin's gear evolved dramatically over his decades-long career—from early film bodies to modern digital systems—shaped by his philosophy of proximity, discipline, and truth.
Early Film Years (late 1950s–1960s)
-
Rolleicord twin-lens reflex (120 film)
McCullin’s first camera, bought during his National Service in Nairobi.
 |
| Rolleicord |
-
Nikon F 35mm SLR
Became his signature camera during war coverage. Famously, one even stopped a sniper’s bullet in Cambodia.
 |
| Nikon F |
He used two Nikon Fs with 28 mm and 35 mm lenses and a lightweight kit of 30 rolls of Tri-X plus backup light meters—prioritizing speed and connection over gear bulk.
Transition: Olympus SLRs & Medium Format
-
Olympus OM-1 & OM-2
Adopted in the 1970s for their compact form and reliability.
 |
| Olympus OM2 see it on Amazon |
-
Rolleiflex medium format, Mamiya Universal Press
Used later for portraits and landscapes, offering versatility and larger formats.
Digital Era (since ~2012)
-
Canon EOS 5D Mark III & IV
Shoot primarily with 35 mm Canon DSLRs and lenses such as 35 mm f/1.4L II and 135 mm f/2L—often using two bodies and two lenses for field flexibility. McCullin praised the sharpness but warns digital may be “too perfect”.
 |
| Canon Eos 5D Mark III see it on Amazon |
Hybrid Use: Film Continues
-
For landscape and still-life work, McCullin still occasionally uses medium format (Mamiya Super 23) and large format Linhof Technika, complemented by his ongoing darkroom practice.
His Gear Philosophy
McCullin famously said: “I have more of a relationship with the subject than I do with my camera equipment… it’s like a tin of shoe polish and a brush.”.
His setup always reflects his guiding principles: proximity (wide lenses, handheld), lightness (minimal gear), and integrity (honest, disciplined shooting). Whether film or digital, the gear serves the purpose—not the other way around.
Books by Don McCullin
Don McCullin : see it on Amazon
