3 questions to ask before you buy a new camera
Once you’ve deciphered the geek speak, decided what camera you’re going to buy, and set a budget, it’s time to start coveting the new and improved. Or not: the unfortunate reality in technology (and life, for that matter) is that the grass is always greener. If you’re just trying to upgrade your equipment for the sake of the bigger and the better, you will never be able to achieve your goal. Everything you purchase will fall short of your expectations. Guaranteed. You’ll always want something even better.
In an attempt, then, to quash the covetousness and spark contentment, let’s be real: why do you actually need that new lens/flash/camera/accessory? Should you really buy a new camera?
What current problem am I trying to solve when I buy a new camera?
Low light inability? Missing the action during the basketball game due to a slow reaction time? Too little control over the output of your on-camera flash? You could definitely have a valid problem that would be solved by an equipment upgrade, but if the problem is mostly user error or user laziness, your problem will not be solved with money and new equipment when you buy a new camera.
What am I going to photograph more if I buy a new camera?
An entry-level camera will not let you adjust settings manually, if you are ready to learn the science behind the photographs, an upgraded camera will be the ticket to that learning journey. If you want to start shooting weddings but only have one stock lens, you will very likely need upgraded glass so you can shoot in the variety of complex scenarios weddings are guaranteed to have.
What picture do I love that I could’ve taken *better* if I buy a new camera?
Is there something missing from that photo? Something off just a teeny bit? Would the ability to adjust the settings saved the shot? Maybe you aren’t facing a specific problem (see question #1), but you anticipate a potential quandary or see specific room for improvement in your photos. Identifying the specific desired outcome when purchasing new equipment will ensure that you are buying the right solution to the right problem and will avoid throwing money away in the process.
I’ve been trying to answer these very questions for myself as I wrestle through the very expensive decision of which new lens to purchase. My wishlist currently includes the 50mm 1.2 ($800), the 85mm 1.4 ($1600), and the 35 mm 1.4 ($1800). I don’t specifically have a problem to fix, but I know I would photograph certain scenarios better and more with each option. Ah, the decisions. Wish me luck?
