Me, my six-year old camera, and the need to upgrade
Whenever I ask some of my office colleagues to take my photos for my lookbook posts in this blog, they almost always tell me to get a new camera already. For the record, I'm using a lowly 6-megapixel Nikon D40, my first ever DSLR (entry-level) that's been with me since 2007. My colleagues, on the other hand, are using much higher-end models of either Nikon or Canon (Jessops has a great selection of both, by the way).
But almost six years into my camera, I'm proud to say that it's still very actively used, and I daresay it still produces some really decent photos. However, I must admit that sometimes I do think of buying myself a new camera because I want to take much better photos, especially in low light. Yes, my D40 has its share of limitations.
I still remember the excitement I felt then with my new toy, and I really thought I could become a photographer back then, or at least moonlight as one.
Back then, a couple of hobbyists I know told me I had an eye for photography. Unfortunately, I never really pursued it. And frankly, I've never really even mastered the right combinations of shutter speed and aperture without having to resort to doing test shots first. Nonetheless, I get it right eventually. Or when in a hurry, there's always the Program mode.
Despite having the eye and even the skill, I do find that a photographer can also be limited with his equipment, occasionally at least. I mean, you can only shoot so much in low light with a D40. Yup, I need both a camera and a lens (and a tripod even) that can spare me the grainy images that go with ramping up the ISO and the exposure value.
Although I can still get that bokeh effect (shallow depth of field) with my D40 by staying close to my subject, I can't do that, however, when I'm zooming in with my 18-55mm kit lens. I need another lens.
While I still believe that the beauty of photos taken rests not with the camera but with the photographer, I also believe that the photographer can definitely do much more with a more superior camera and lens. So I'm hoping I can save enough for a new camera real soon.
Meanwhile, I still have my D40 to keep me company. It's light and it serves its purpose. So even if I do manage to upgrade, I don't see myself ditching it completely. It would still be great as a backup camera or when lugging around a bigger one would prove to be too much of a hassle. :)
But almost six years into my camera, I'm proud to say that it's still very actively used, and I daresay it still produces some really decent photos. However, I must admit that sometimes I do think of buying myself a new camera because I want to take much better photos, especially in low light. Yes, my D40 has its share of limitations.
I still remember the excitement I felt then with my new toy, and I really thought I could become a photographer back then, or at least moonlight as one.
One of my earlier photos, taken on June 2007 in Bolinao, Pangasinan. I swear this photo has never been Photoshopped or anything.
Back then, a couple of hobbyists I know told me I had an eye for photography. Unfortunately, I never really pursued it. And frankly, I've never really even mastered the right combinations of shutter speed and aperture without having to resort to doing test shots first. Nonetheless, I get it right eventually. Or when in a hurry, there's always the Program mode.
One of my "photographer" moments back in 2007; Boracay Island.
Despite having the eye and even the skill, I do find that a photographer can also be limited with his equipment, occasionally at least. I mean, you can only shoot so much in low light with a D40. Yup, I need both a camera and a lens (and a tripod even) that can spare me the grainy images that go with ramping up the ISO and the exposure value.
How I wish this image was clearer and less grainy.
Although I can still get that bokeh effect (shallow depth of field) with my D40 by staying close to my subject, I can't do that, however, when I'm zooming in with my 18-55mm kit lens. I need another lens.
Getting really close to my subject, coupled with some cropping, gave me this.
Bokeh's always cool.
While I still believe that the beauty of photos taken rests not with the camera but with the photographer, I also believe that the photographer can definitely do much more with a more superior camera and lens. So I'm hoping I can save enough for a new camera real soon.
Meanwhile, I still have my D40 to keep me company. It's light and it serves its purpose. So even if I do manage to upgrade, I don't see myself ditching it completely. It would still be great as a backup camera or when lugging around a bigger one would prove to be too much of a hassle. :)
Those are really cool pics, you should probably buy a new one and keep gettin better, don't you think?
ReplyDeleteBut really amazing pics, huh
http://mytigermx.blogspot.mx
thanks. yeah, maybe i should.
DeleteYou have a really good camera in my opinion, but buy one could be even better, but don´t worry I think you´re good at taking pictures
ReplyDeleteThese pictures are really amazing!
thanks, man!
Deletehow lovely!
ReplyDelete:)
DeleteI can totally relate to your feeling, of wanting an upgrade. I just upgraded from my 40x half a year ago - felt so nice to finally upgrade! you should if you can. :)
ReplyDeletexx
smudged-fingerprints.blogspot.com
hopefully soon :)
DeleteReally nice photos!! :D. Thanks for your comment
ReplyDeleteWherever the Sunset is
thanks. and you're welcome!
DeleteAmazing pics my dear friend!
ReplyDeleteBest Regards
Miss Margaret Cruzemark
http://margaretcruzemark.blogspot.com/
thank you!
Delete