Camera lust and photog fellowship

This morning I got to hang out with a whole bunch of photographers for a breakfast meeting up near my old stomping grounds in North Austin. It was organized by Elizabeth Jayne, a photographer friend who I hadn't seen in a while but have kept up with thanks to social media. Being the rebel that I am, I decided to get french toast at the pancake place. Take that pancakes.

Anyhow, besides the food I met a couple fellow Nikon shooters, Nadine and Anne who were quite gracious in sharing a bit about what they do and how they do it. The downside was that I walked away longing for a new camera based on some high recommendations. The reason this was a downer was simply that it is certainly priced beyond my current budget. But there is an upside and that is that I can still take some pretty decent photos with what I've got. At least that's what I've been told.

The question this highlighted for me was the ever-challenging "what technology is worth it and what is mostly hype?"

You can search the web for reviews on the latest lenses and cameras, the best lighting systems and modifiers, and the best software to enhance those photos and you'll get all sorts of answers. A good rule in my experience has been "go with glass" when facing the question of whether to invest in lenses or camera bodies. A good lens can make a huge difference in the quality of the pictures you can make, especially if you know how to use it.

With the advent of cheaper digital cameras that are more available to enthusiasts and hobbyists, I've been wondering what helps really separate the full-on professionals from the rest? First there is the knowledge and experience, then the creative eye, and then the equipment. There are cameras that will cost you up to $1700 for the body (no lens) and then there are the lenses that truly test your devotion to (or reliance on) photography that start at $2600. That's a bit of separation for ya.

The question is whether or not it's necessary.

For some things it sounds like it is. The more expensive cameras have significant performance advantages in low light situations especially and for pros who tend to wind up doing weddings can attest to, low light is an all-too-common occurrence. In order to work in that industry on the higher tier, some photographers and clients demand that versatility and I can see why from my own personal experience dealing with the low light in post-production. Although I can get good results, it requires a lot more time and effort when adjusting in that post production. Time is money I've been told.

So maybe it is necessary but then there is the budget issue. I've been trying to start up this photography business without loans or debt. So far so good with the notable caveat being a very low personal salary which is not a sustainable situation. So I suppose this camera upgrade issue is now even more incentive to get out there and see if I can't drum up some more business. Considering the amount of pro-bono work I've been doing, I'll probably need to prioritize paying gigs more.

I also need to thank all those who have let me work with them or simply hang around and capture moments of their lives. I am horrible about writing notes but it needs to be done because I do appreciate all you who have and continue to support me and my work. Thank you!

So yes, this morning was a great time to talk, learn, and share with some of the vibrant photographic community here in Austin. I also noticed that there was a steep percentage of ladies to gentlemen in the the group which means I'm a minority. That being said, there are also a high number of Erics in the male photographer ranks so I'm back to a majority... within the minority anyways.

...and that is what I learned and pondered today, the end.