Almost every time I run into someone and they find out that I am a photographer they ask me what camera do I use. The truth is that it's not really about the camera or the lenses, or Canon or Nikon, or anything like that. For most people, even professionals, it is about the finished product: the final image.
I have used some of the "Best Cameras" in the world, Phase One's, Hasselblads, Leaf's, D3s (if I had to chose a favorite). They all rank at the top of the charts and do an amazing job, but I think most people just need to work on their images, not their equipment.
The key is to learn the limitations of what you currently have and keep it simple, instead of getting a 5D Mark II with 3 - 2.8 IS L lenses, a flash and a bunch of stuff to fill up your bag try getting a D7000 or 7D with 1 - f/4 zoom and just use it a lot, shoot a lot. If you do not like carrying around an SLR to shoot all of the time, grab a point-and-shoot that works for your needs and carry it. It is amazing what you can do with just a little exposure compensation and proper exposure settings.
Even your iPhone can produce some amazing images, remember, the best camera is the one you have with you!
Some camera and non camera things to consider:
- Nikon COOLPIX AW100 - You can throw it around in your car, jersey, or purse; get it wet, drop it and still get the shot!
- Nikon COOLPIX P7100 - A great "I don't want to carry my SLR" camera, but I want some pro performance.
- iPhone 4s - You will most likely always have this camera on you and it is quite a little power house.
- Best Camera - A fast powerful app that really goes to the heart of the issue.
- Instagram - So cliché but if you are stuck in a creative rut this kind of app can help you out.
- Postagram - Want to share your images threw good old snail mail, check out this little dandy of an app.
- Camera+ - A bit more performance for the iPhone's camera.
Once you have reached the limitations of your equipment and tried to figure every way around it, think of what equipment that you may want to add to your gear list. Before you do, make sure you try before your buy. Online rental options out there are becoming more and more affordable, plus they ship you your equipment! This is especially convenient if you do not live in a major metro area.
At all the races I see people with:
- 2 - pro bodies $9000
- 2- pro lenes $4500
- 1- pro flash $1000
- 1- power pack $500
- TOTAL $15,000!
I say put all that away (it's bulky and hard to manage anyway) go with a aforementioned smaller body and single lens, look at the light and the subject that exists and capture it!
