The record-breaking Leica 0-Series sold at auction in Vienna in May this year and is just the latest in a steady succession of record-breaking camera sales. When the Leica was originally placed in the auction it had a reserve of just US$290,000 (HK$2.3m), a figure it quickly—and breathtakingly—exceeded.

　　　　It’s not surprising. With the introduction of digital photography, the camera has suddenly become ubiquitous. Everyone now has a digital camera in their pocket and, crucially, over the past five or six years, they have had access to dedicated software that allows them to modify their photos, often by simply using the same device. Whilst much of this photographic software is largely based around clearing up imperfections, its use in the hands of a professional can produce some breathtaking imagery.