Many people have a misguided view that by purchasing the latest and greatest camera body, their photos will instantly become that much better. The truth of
the matter is that if one does not know how to use what they have effectively,
adding a greater amount and more complex options often causes more frustration
and failed shoots. Making the jump from an entry-level camera to the top-of-the-line
model may not be the smartest decision. A camera body is a tool. If the skill
level beyond the fundamentals is present, such an upgrade might not be such an
intimidating process. However, If one has yet to grasp the basics of their
current-level camera body, upgrading to the latest and greatest will often be
met with a steep learning curve. Consideration given to the moderation of the
level of camera one steps up to is important.

      The fact is, a skilled photographer is capable of creating great images with
just about any camera body. It is a matter of knowing their desired expected
results and executing. Previsualization, as Ansel Adams coined. The only
limitation would be the capabilities of the image sensor and the camera’s
available options from the period of production. The first limitation is fairly
straightforward. The sensor’s megapixel count and dynamic range are not going
to change magically. The second limitation is capable of being mitigated when a
photographer has a firm grasp on the general concepts of photography. For example,
the featured lava flow photograph, seen above, was captured with a Nikon D70
and the sub-$200 70-300mm f/4.5-5.6 G (Pre-VR). Gear can make a difference, but
skill and knowledge can make the gear aspect not nearly as important.

      This article has no intention to dissuade one from upgrading to the latest and
greatest. Some people out there learn very quickly and adapt to the new systems
with few problems. Following the release of the Nikon D850, a group created on
Facebook exposed how 45mp will exacerbate any and every flaw in one’s shooting
style and overall knowledge of photography rules and fundamentals. Many
complained that “it must be the camera,” and that argument simply was not true.
It was the skill-level of the photographer. For example, the Focal Length Versus Shutter Speed Rule is a bit outdated. In my experience, the shutter speed required with super-high megapixel cameras for a sharp handheld image needs to be at least 1.5 times the focal length. It is fairly common knowledge to astrophotographers that the 500 Rule isextinct in cameras above 18mp. However, even using the NPF Rule, which replaced the 500 Rule, can result in unwanted star trails. Those are just but two examples of the many.

      The learning curve is steep when one makes a massive jump in any piece of
technical gear. For those who can adapt easily and are willing to put in thenecessary work; Research your options and consider what goals you wish to achieve with the camera by investing. To those readers who are struggling with the camera body that they currently own; Do not think that upgrading to the best camera body that money is going to solve all your problems. More than likely, they will increase them. Use the money that you would otherwise spend on a high-end camera body and use it for better glass or on photography workshops to learn the craft on a deeper level.

      Lenses, in most cases, will outlive the useful lifespan of the average digital
camera. Proper care of your glass will see a much larger return on investment than buying the latest and greatest camera now, struggling to learn it and take full advantage of it, and, by the time you do, it is now an outdated model. Upgrading your glass will give one the instant gratification without a steep learning curve while also being a wise investment.

      Workshops, classes at your local community college, or classes offered through
local camera clubs are worth the investment because they will provide you a chance to learn from respected individuals or teams locally or on-location. This option does not result in a tangible product, but it will increase your knowledge and, with any luck, skill. Workshops and other forms of classes allow one to develop their skills while having teachers or mentors give them individual feedback and instruction on how to correct and better their photography skills.

      Remember, the camera is a tool. It, like any other tool, is only as good as its
operator. If the capability to learn quickly and adapt is present, by all means – Go for it! That is rarely the case, unfortunately. Glass, workshops, and classes are the most likely ways to better your photographs, not dumping money into the most expensive camera available. As the Notorious B.I.G. famously titled one of his tracks, “Mo’ Money Mo’ Problems.” Invest the money that you earmarked for your photography budget on what has the chance of increasing your success. This article is not saying jumping into the deep end, combined with some calculated risk, is a bad idea. However, investing in high-quality lenses stand to leave one with the likelihood of a much higher return on investment.
Workshops and classes are also other major contenders. Knowledge is capable of far more power than megapixel counts. Besides, with sensors today, that high-end glass is needed to resolve the cameras on the market fully!

— As a tech geek, it would be a falsehood to say that I have always practiced what I preach in this piece. The occasional jump off the deep end happens to most everyone. I have found myself in this situation a time or two. If this happens to you, let it serve as an educational lesson. Not only about jumping off the deep end without doing the necessary research, but force yourself to advance your knowledge and skill level to new highs. Buyer’s remorse is not going to change anything. Make the best of the situation! Get help from the people you know and take some workshops or classes. Let the mistake turn into a success! Thank you for reading my first blog post on my new website and I hope that you enjoyed it! -Brian —