What Camera should you buy?
The age-old question of "What camera should I buy?" often echoes in the minds of photographers and filmmakers alike. It can be a world of confusion given how quickly technology is progressing.
You may have seen a video I produced late in 2023 suggesting the the newest cameras were overkill for the majority of photographers (and filmmakers, however I think they offer a lot more benefit to filmmakers than they do photographers). In response to this, I received an overwhelming number of comments and DMs from people asking the very question, “what camera should I buy?”
Unfortunately, I cannot answer these questions.
I do not know the specifics of each individual use case, nor the technical ability of the user or their potential future uses. Only the individual can address that. I also just don’t have the experience with the majority of today’s cameras so could never recommend them based on the fact that I’ve just not used them!
So what can I do?
Well, this blog (and the accompanying video) sets out a list of points to consider if and when you’ve decided it is time for a new camera. I’m hoping that these will make you realise that you don’t need to necessarily aim for the highest spec cameras. The best case scenario is that you may find that you actually don’t need to upgrade at all, and can save yourself a decent amount of money that can be invested in something else that will further progress your photography.
Here’s the list:
Evaluate Your Current Gear:
Before diving into the world of new cameras, take a critical look at your existing equipment. Identify the limitations of your current camera or cameras. Whether it's weather sealing, low-light performance, or autofocus capabilities, understanding these limitations is crucial to determining your needs. You don’t need to purchase a camera that does everything ‘just in case’. Work out exactly what features you need and take it from there.
Brand Affiliation and Switching:
Consider the implications of changing camera brands. Loyalty to a particular brand often involves significant investments in lenses. Changing brands may result in financial setbacks. Assess whether the allure of a new brand is worth the potential drawbacks before making a switch. In my experience, there’s little between the leading brands now. Selection of one brand over another need not be made on technical specifics, but may come down to usability more than anything else.
Identify Your Real Needs:
Attempt to separate emotional desires from practical needs. As mentioned above, scrutinize the features offered by potential cameras and assess their relevance to your style of photography. Again, avoid falling into the trap of acquiring features you won't use. it’s important to recognise that more features don't necessarily equate to better photography.
Budget Considerations:
Set a realistic budget and stick to it. Avoid going into debt or paying more than you intended for the latest camera gear, especially if you're a hobbyist. Older cameras can still deliver exceptional results, and overspending may not necessarily translate into better photos. Check out the comments section of this video and you will see how many people are using older cameras, but are more than happy with their output.
Consider Alternatives to new Camera Bodies:
Explore other avenues for improvement before investing in a new camera. Assess the quality of your lenses, invest in workshops or courses, or embark on photography-centric trips. Sometimes, enhancing your skills or experiences can contribute more to your growth than upgrading equipment.
Reflect on your Technical Limitations:
It’s important to consider any technical shortcomings in your work. Acknowledge that the pursuit of better gear may not always address fundamental issues in your photography or filmmaking skills. Embrace challenges as a means of growth rather than relying solely on advanced equipment.
Timing Your Purchase:
Keep an eye on upcoming camera releases, as new models can lead to price reductions on older ones. Every brand out there will release a new camera this year, and that will have a direct impact on older models. Waiting for a new release may allow you to acquire a previous model at a more affordable price or explore the used market for better deals.
New Vs Used:
Consider buying used equipment, especially if budget constraints are a concern. I think that many photographers treat their gear with the utmost care and attention, so there can be real value in the used market. If the condition of gear is a return, think about buying from a reputable used gear trader (such as Wet or MPB) for further peace of mind. You can save a fortune buying your gear used. What’s more, if you decided that a certain camera is not for you then the financial loss will be minimal should you decide to sell it on.
What would I buy Today?
Based on my previous experiences with brand, I’d look no further than the Fujifilm X-T4. I go into more detail about why this is in this post
In Summary
Hopefully, that gives you some guidance and explains why I cannot recommend a certain camera for any individuals use - It is absolutely essential to prioritise individual needs over industry trends.. By looking at your current gear, considering brand loyalty, identifying YOUR REAL needs, sticking to your budget, exploring alternatives, reflecting on technical limitations, timing purchases strategically, and considering the benefits of buying new or used, I hope that you can make an informed decision that aligns with your unique creative journey.
Ultimately, the goal is to find a camera that enhances the joy of photography and fuels artistic growth, rather than something that tries to do EVERYTHING.