As with anything that involves new technology in regards to equipment, brands release new models every year. In the camera world, we have just had Photokina. As with anything heading towards Christmas, there has been a lot of new equipment released and announced. The question is, is it worth buying the latest equipment year after year?
In regard to actually doing photography, not it is not worth buying it. The latest gear alone will not make you a better photographer, nor will it give you lasting inspiration. Most likely, you will have a short term inspiration, and then either put it down or move on.
With Nikon & Canon joining the full frame mirrorless war that seems to be waging at the moment, a lot of people are looking at these two behemoth company’s to deliver. Sony currently heading the full frame battle, having released models within this format. The introduction of Nikon and Canon means they are finally dipping their toes into the mirrorless market, which makes sense as this seems to be the way the industry is going.
Fujifilm have been top class in the APSC and digital medium formats respectively. Fantastic updates, and listening to their customers has allowed Fujifilm to consistently release quality cameras and lenses. I personally feel they have the sexiest looking cameras on the market at the moment, modelling the camera and dials on film cameras.
It would be wrong to list the above, without touching on Micro Four Thirds. I still love my Olympus OM-D EM1 MKII, and look forward to seeing what Olympus do for their anniversary in 2019!
So back to the point, why would someone buy the latest models for camera? Now, even pro’s will keep workhorses for a number of years before changing, unless the promoting or selling products. You will usually find people that buy this new equipment every year are either enthusiasts that review the gear themselves (I guess you could say I sometimes fall into this bracket), and people that are just obsessed with equipment and buying it. GAS. Gear acquisition syndrome. This is not a bad thing in and of itself, but it really is “feeding the beast”
It is no secret I am really looking forward to the Ricoh GRIII coming out. I have been trying not to ‘eye up’ the beautiful offerings from Fujifilm, but is hard not to appreciate a good thing(s). What has been on your radar recently?
-Sly