New Kit = Better Pictures. Must Have, Must Have.

Do you feel the ‘pull’ to buy new kit (camera, Lenses. Tripods etc) when they hit the market? Do you buy new gear when it comes out? Do you change brand when new cameras come out that are not your usual brand because they seem to offer a little extra than your current brand?

So here’s the question: Do you think pro photographers buy new gear when it comes out? The answer is generally ‘No’. Have you wondered why? Or are you one of those folk who believe that new kit = better images?

I’m going to try and answer these questions based on my own experience and that of fellow professionals. Why? Simply because so many people – especially those who come on my courses – ask whether they should upgrade (or not) to the latest gear. For example, it may seem obvious and sensible to upgrade from DSLR to mirrorless…for lots of reasons. BUT…is this a case of the ‘tail wagging the dog’?

Reality is pro photographers don’t always rush to upgrade their cameras and photography equipment every time a new model hits the market. This decision is influenced by a blend of practical, financial, and personal factors. So let’s explore these reasons in some detail.

 Familiarity and Mastery

One of the primary reasons professionals stick with their current gear is familiarity. Imagine you’ve been using a particular camera for years. You know its settings inside out, understand its quirks, and have mastered how to get the best results from it. Switching to a new camera means starting from scratch to some extent. There’s a learning curve involved, and during this period, your efficiency and productivity might take a hit.

Cost Considerations

High-end cameras and lenses are significant investments. We’re talking about thousands of dollars for a single piece of equipment. For many professionals, the cost of constantly upgrading to the latest model isn’t justifiable. They often prefer to allocate their budget to other essential areas, such as new lenses, lighting equipment, or even travel expenses for shoots. It’s about getting the most value out of their investment.

Sufficient Performance

Many professional cameras are built to last and offer excellent performance for years. The improvements in new models might be incremental rather than revolutionary. For instance, a new camera might offer a slight increase in resolution or a marginally faster autofocus system. While these improvements are nice to have, they might not be game-changers for a professional who is already getting great results with their current gear.

Reliability and Trust

Professionals rely on their gear to perform consistently under various conditions. A well-tested and trusted camera is less likely to fail during critical moments. New models, while often improved, can sometimes have initial issues or bugs that need to be resolved. Sticking with a reliable camera that has proven its worth over time can be a safer bet.

Compatibility with Existing Gear

Photographers often have a collection of lenses and accessories that are compatible with their current camera system. Switching to a new camera might require additional investments in new lenses or adapters, which can be costly and inconvenient. For example, a photographer using a Canon DSLR might have a range of EF lenses. If they switch to a new mirrorless system, they might need to buy new RF lenses or use adapters, which can be an added expense and hassle.

Workflow Integration

Professional photographers have established workflows for editing and processing their images. New cameras can introduce changes in file formats, colour profiles, and other technical aspects that might require adjustments in their post-processing routines. This can be time-consuming and might disrupt their established workflow. Sticking with their current gear ensures a smooth and efficient process from shooting to editing.

Personal Preference

Photography is a highly personal art form, and many photographers develop a preference for certain camera brands and models. They might feel that their current camera perfectly suits their style and needs, making them less inclined to switch. For instance, a photographer might prefer the colour science of Canon cameras or the ergonomics of Nikon bodies. These personal preferences play a significant role in their decision to stick with their current gear.

Incremental Upgrades

Camera technology often advances incrementally. While new models may offer better specs, the improvements might not be significant enough to warrant an upgrade. Professionals often wait for a major leap in technology before considering a new purchase. For example, the jump from DSLR to mirrorless was a significant shift that prompted many photographers to upgrade. However, the incremental improvements within the same category might not be as compelling.

Environmental Considerations

Upgrading frequently can contribute to electronic waste. Some photographers are mindful of their environmental impact and choose to use their equipment for as long as possible before upgrading. This sustainable approach not only benefits the environment but also aligns with a more mindful and responsible way of consuming technology.

Focus on Skill Over Gear

Ultimately, great photography is more about the skill and vision of the photographer than the gear. Professionals understand that mastering their craft and improving their skills can have a more significant impact on their work than constantly upgrading their equipment. A talented photographer can create stunning images with almost any camera. It’s the person behind the lens who makes the real difference.

Real-World Examples

To illustrate these points, let’s look at some real-world examples:

Wildlife Photographers

Wildlife photographers often work in challenging environments where reliability and durability are crucial. They might be shooting in extreme weather conditions, from the freezing Arctic to the sweltering African savannah. In such situations, having a camera that they trust to perform consistently is more important than having the latest model. Additionally, wildlife photographers often use long lenses, which are significant investments. Switching to a new camera system might require new lenses, which can be prohibitively expensive.

Wedding Photographers

Wedding photographers need to capture critical moments without any hiccups. They rely on their gear to perform flawlessly throughout the day. A new camera might offer better specs, but if their current camera is already delivering excellent results, the risk of switching might not be worth it. Moreover, wedding photographers often have a well-established workflow for editing and delivering images to clients. Introducing a new camera into this workflow can create unnecessary complications.

Travel Photographers

Travel photographers often work in remote locations where access to repair services or replacement gear is limited. They need equipment that is rugged and reliable. A new camera might offer better features, but if their current camera has proven its durability and reliability, they might prefer to stick with it. Additionally, travel photographers often carry multiple lenses and accessories. Switching to a new camera system might mean carrying additional adapters or new lenses, which can add weight and complexity to their gear.

The Role of Lenses and Accessories

It’s also important to consider the role of lenses and accessories in a photographer’s decision to upgrade. High-quality lenses can last for decades and often have a more significant impact on image quality than the camera body itself. Many photographers prioritize investing in good lenses over upgrading their camera bodies. For example, a professional might choose to invest in a fast prime lens or a versatile zoom lens that can open up new creative possibilities.

Accessories such as tripods, filters, and lighting equipment also play a crucial role in a photographer’s toolkit. These items are often compatible with multiple camera bodies and can be used for years. Investing in high-quality accessories can enhance a photographer’s capabilities without the need to constantly upgrade their camera.

The Psychological Aspect

There’s also a psychological aspect to consider. The constant release of new camera models can create a sense of “gear envy” or the fear of missing out (FOMO). However, seasoned professionals understand that the latest gear doesn’t necessarily make them better photographers. They focus on honing their skills, developing their style, and creating compelling images with the equipment they have. This mindset helps them resist the pressure to constantly upgrade and instead focus on what truly matters – their craft.

Conclusion

Professional photographers don’t always change their cameras and photography equipment when new models come out for a variety of reasons. Familiarity with their current gear, cost considerations, sufficient performance, reliability, compatibility with existing equipment, workflow integration, personal preferences, incremental upgrades, environmental considerations, and a focus on skill over gear all play a role in their decision-making process.

Photography is an art form that relies more on the vision and skill of the photographer than the equipment they use. While new camera models can offer exciting features and improvements, professionals weigh these benefits against the practicalities of cost, familiarity, reliability, and their specific needs. This careful consideration helps them make informed decisions about when and if to upgrade their gear.

Ultimately, the best camera is the one that allows photographers to capture their vision and create compelling images. Whether they choose to stick with their trusted gear or embrace the latest technology, the focus remains on the art of photography and the stories they want to tell through their images. So, the next time you see a professional photographer using an older camera model, remember that it’s not just about having the latest gear – it’s about making the most of what you have and creating something truly remarkable.

Hope this sheds a little light folks.

As for me?…I still use DSLR and for the foreseeable future don’t intend to go mirrorless. Why? Certainly for all the reasons above but, in addition, because I shoot thousands of images on wildlife shoots battery life is CRUCIAL. And mirrorless just doesn’t cut it for me. In addition, ‘If it works, don’t fix it’. I love my DSLR because it’s an extension of me as a photographer. Sure, the kit is heavy but I’ve found ways round that to my advantage. Weight, at the moment, is not a real problem for me. In a nutshell: I know what I like and I like what I know. And it works.

Remember, the most important bit of kit you have is the six inches behind the viewfinder. That’s the thing that should ALWAYS be upgraded. Photography is about the photographer…not the kit.

Happy snappin’ folks