Shutter Sisters - Journal - overcoming your gear: let's call it sharking (and, a giveaway!)

Monday

Jun072010

overcoming your gear: let's call it sharking (and, a giveaway!)

Monday, June 7, 2010 by

I’ve stood there in shops, staring through glass at glass... coveted glass.

$1599.99. $989.99. $1249.99. Even if I did have the money, how would I ever choose? I need a macro as much as I need a wide-angle. Instead my camera bag is filled with hand-me-downs and compromises, an extremely limited selection of what are generally considered the most ineffective, inexpensive, kit-grade lenses Canon has ever produced.

The Canon EF 28-80mm f/3.5-5.6 II lens is a very inexpensive starter lens with a low build quality. As long as the person using the 28-80 knows its optical shortcomings, that designation may be fine. Otherwise, they may permanently be turned off by its performance. Its optics are mediocre at best, making it nearly impossible to get ultra-sharp pictures. The price is cheap, and so is the lens; the overall workmanship and quality is low. ~ The Digital Picture

Lately, that’s the one I use most often for nature shots, including the one above.

Build quality of the 50mm f/1.8 is very cheap (as you might expect). This lens feels more like a toy than a piece of optics, with plastic contruction right down to the lens mount.

There is not much to this lens. There is no distance window or markings. There is barely even a focus ring - and the tiny ring that is there is barely usable. Only five non-rounded aperture blades are used in this lens, leading to poor bokeh (image quality of out of focus areas). ~ The Digital Picture

That’s the one I use for portraits, though I'd give it a better review than that.

And that’s pretty much it. A lensbaby for play, as-yet unmastered. A 10-20mm wide angle that’s slow, tough to focus precisely, and distorting around the edges. All mounted to a camera body that’s widely considered to be the beginner point for SLRs. Except it’s been my starting point for years.

I have never used a good lens, let alone a great one. The same goes for a camera body. I’m afraid to even pick one up for the sake of mortgage payments.

+++

Our village is filling up with summer residents, rich folk from the States, England, all points in Europe. With the onslaught of Porsche SUVs comes an onslaught of boats that eat money, sails that literally sparkle, crews outfitted in matching gear.

We’ve got a 40-year-old Shark, adopted, a family of small boats not seen much around these parts. Justin’s spent years sandblasting the keel, replacing the bulkheads, poring the internet for used sails.

"It’s so demoralizing," he said after yesterday’s race. "We came last. I can’t compete with those guys. They’re laughing at us. I don’t even have a roller furling for the jib. The rigging is from the 1960s. There’s no way I can race that boat. I don’t know why I bother."

Later, when the race results came in, Justin was shocked to discover that he hadn’t actually come last. He’d beaten two boats of the fleet. Two better-equipped boats designed to go fast. He beat them because he’s a good sailor. Not because of his boat, but in spite of it.

+++

I feel the limitations of my gear every time I reach for my camera. Clunky, lightweight, noisy, imprecise. I see it when I download, my best-case focusing turning out about as well as I imagine others’ worst-cases.

But every now and then, someone who knows about cameras looks at my images and says, “What do you shoot with?” and I tell them. And in that moment, I get... props.

None of this is a competition, but indulge my metaphor: when it comes to light-bending and composition and storytelling with my camera, plenty of people are ahead of me. I’ll never catch them—not with this glass. But I’m not DFL, either (to borrow from the nautical, Dead F*cking Last).

And for now, I’m content with that. I’ll keep pushing, nudging, compensating, overcoming, until $1249.99 falls from the sky into my lap.

+++

Hello Giveaway!

It’s random giveaway time from our friends at Hello Canvas.

Leave a comment here between now and Tuesday at midnight, and you could win a 20x24 canvas of your photo of choice from Hello Canvas! The prompt: What’s your relationship to your gear? Does it define you? Delight you? Confine you? What are you most grateful for, and how do you see your stable of lenses and equipment evolving in the next year?

Also, winners from our Hello Gorgeous mini contest will be announced on Tuesday. Wheeee!

The winner of the Hello Canvas 20x24 canvas print is Bekkah of Through the Lens, our 68th commenter. Congratulations, Bekkah! And thanks so much to everyone for sharing your thoughts on gear, both today's and tomorrow's (and wishlists).

136 Comments

Reader Comments (136)

I used an entry-level dslr throughout school and for the first couple years of my business, and while I have been blessed to be able to upgrade the body, I still use the 50/1.8 almost exclusively because it is the best lens I have. I remember someone telling me a long time ago that Ansel Adams would have been able to produce amazing photographs with a disposable point-and-shoot, because the gear does not make the artist, and that has stuck with me. Sometime in the next year I hope to be able to invest in another lens, and slowly build my collection as I can. My wishlist: a macro, a wide angle, and an 85mm prime.

June 7, 2010 |

Hannah

Oh I really relate to this post! I have two kit lenses and a $100 50 mm. My 18-55 mm kit lens doesn't auto focus very well because I dropped it and had it fixed, but it's never been the same. I dream and dream about getting a nice quality lens. Someday it will happen...

I try to remind myself that my mid-level DSLR and kit lenses are still SO MUCH BETTER than anything I've ever had before and I am still able to make many great images. Still I can't help wondering what I could do with more. It's nice to know I'm not the only one. :)

June 7, 2010 |

Tracy

I have always been one to long for "better" equipment but usually end up with a new pinhole or toy camera instead:) Now, as a new mother and newly converted to digital photography I just long for time to shoot!

June 7, 2010 |

Lauren Doran

I too don't have the best equiptment. My first SLR is a Nikon D40 with a 35mm fixed lens. My brother in law gave me his D70 but I don't really like the LCD screen. I want to upgrade but just can't justify it. I need to learn more first.

June 7, 2010 |

ladynole35@yahoo.com

Thanks for a great post! I have wanted to upgrade but like you I do not have $1200 for a lens. I would love to have the money to buy what I want or think I need. In the meantime, I'll have fun with what I have.

June 7, 2010 |

Robin

While I believe creativity mostly comes from the eye looking through the lens, I don't believe that gear should be excluded in the creative process. I have a few good lenses that, if anything, inspire me to go out and shoot and improve my skills. There are so many things that can be accomplished through the open eye of a 35mm/f 1.8...but, sometimes, even better, I can extend my view with my 70-300mm and really look closely at an object or throw my view to the skies. In other words, equipment is an extension of our creativity and I too look forward to new "glass" someday.... ;-)

June 7, 2010 |

Alison

I want a wide angle lens with all my being but I LOVE my 50mm 1.8. It suits me and is on my camera most often. I am no pro but I do get the periodic great shot and that makes me happy.

June 7, 2010 |

tracy

I can not begin to express my gratitude for this post.
I shot with a Kodak P712 with a wide angle and a telephoto lens for several years. When I started hearing comments from other photographers in my area, both props and "when are you going to get a real camera", I became disenchanted with my gear. I have upgraded, not due to these comments, but because it was time, and I saved like a crazy person.
I love my canon 50d with the wonderful lenses I have for them...that did not cost me upwards of $1200. Because, I too, have a mortgage, bills and kids to feed and clothe. But, as you stated, I'm not DFL either. I lvoe my images. My clients love my images, and that, in and of itself, speaks volumes.

I've heard it said that anyone can pick up a camera, but not anyone can take my breath away. A good photographer and shoot a GREAT photo with ANYTHING. i am proof. You are proof. And we aren't alone. :)

So...Props to you! Props all around. ;)
Dana

June 7, 2010 |

Dana (Buttercupyaya)

I'm pretty content with my camera, although I've had a hankering for a 50mm, mostly because I've only had my camera for two years and feel like I have a LOT to learn before taking on anything too fancy. I do wish I had about solid week of free time to learn more about editing, that's where I feel completely out of my realm. I appreciated what you had to say. I get compliments on my pictures, but sometimes I'm not sure if it was me or just luck. =)

June 7, 2010 |

Lisa

The grass isn't always greener on the other side....a better camera won't make you a better photographer. Better paint didn't make Picasso a better artist. If you can't be with the one you love (in this case, a new cam + lens), LOVE the one your WITH! Learn your craft, people, and it won't matter what kind of cam + lens you have!!

June 7, 2010 |

Greta S.

I've amassed a collection of lenses that I can work with. Sure, I'd like some better glass, and there are definitely lenses on my wishlist, but right now, I feel like I have the lenses that work for me.

June 7, 2010 |

Gabrielle Smith

Oh, my. I have a three-year-old Rebel XTi and only one good lens--a 50mm 1.4. I vacillate between feeling limited and feeling intimidated with the thoughts of anything new, more complicated, and more expensive. I would be so apprehensive with a new expensive camera or expensive glass, I might not be able to function.

June 7, 2010 |

geneil

Great give-a-way! I am always learning and still have my first camera from when I was a little kid(7-8 yrs. old) I am now 44 and have since upgrade but usually to used slr's and used lenses. I think it's mostly if you have the eye for the photo rather than what equipment you have....but it's always nice to dream about the big camera and lenses:)

June 7, 2010 |

Tammy Hunt

I love my Canon Rebel & my kit lens & my 50mm with the bad review. I L.O.V.E. them. I was so fortunate that my camera was a gift, about one year ago. I'd still be using a crappy OLD PnS and dreaming of a DSL. I have so much to learn. Lighting, composition, processing. Certainly a more expensive body & glass wouldn’t make much of a difference for me right now. I love having my camera in my hand and I love taking photos with it, and I love seeing my progress. I like to think I am developing a better eye. Maybe this camera is all I’ll ever need. Maybe I’ll outgrow it, and have the means to move up. But for now? For now I love shooting with it, I love making pictures.

June 8, 2010 |

Maureen

I spent several years with the xti & the nifty 50. I shot most of my Project 365 with this combination and when I want a reliable, portable solution I often turn to this combo. My next purchase was the 24-70 mm 2.8L. When I first got it it was so heavy I took terrible pictures with it and so I clung to the 50 because I could reliably get good shots. Eventually I bit the bullet and refused to use anything but the 24-70 until I could master it. I am still in that process. Surprisingly enough, graduating to the 5D mii helped balance out the weight of the lens and I am happy now with that combination. Still have a new 100mm 2.0 to break in and lusting after the 70-200 mm 2.8 (I plan on renting it a couple times this year to test drive it -- renting is such a good option for lens that you don't have the bank or consistent need for).

June 8, 2010 |

Sheryl

When I went on my first professional shoot, my client was an artist herself. She had her camera out, taking pictures of her paintings, as she arrived earlier than our shoot was set to start. As soon as I saw her camera, I felt devastated inside. It was nicer and bigger than mine. SHE was paying ME. Why?!

Why? Because I had something to offer her. I knew how to use what I had (have) and use it well. I still get nervous that my gear isn't good enough, but I'm learning that I've got me.... and that is.

June 8, 2010 |

Bree

My gear is not even gear.... I have a Conon Powershot SX10 is, and while I have managed to push it to the max and actually create some pretty good images.... my desire is for a real Canon DSLR and MANY lenses. Maybe, someday.

June 8, 2010 |

Christinellen

I'm a firm believer that it's not the equipment. I get by with my little nikon d40x and a 200mm lens. would I like the fancy stuff? sure would! but........ not in any hurry;) I would love to be entered into this canvas contest! have an image of my daughter I have been wanting on canvas... but alas......... no funds at the moment. would love to win!

June 8, 2010 |

amy

I have a lens envy for sure! Had my eye on a macro for a long time!! Hopefully in a few years will be able to purchase it...but thankful for the my camera body even though its not full frame, it still takes great pictures.........

June 8, 2010 |

Sandy

I have always been happy with my little Nikon D60, and am inspired by photogs with their iPhone! I've always been the kind of gal who does the best with what I have!

June 8, 2010 |

Martha

This is such an incredible post - (having fun just reading through the comments!) I think it's something that all photographers think of, even if only subconsciously - we are always lusting or limiting by our equipment, right? I believe that artists actually work better within limits. If you have too many choices, you become overwhelmed within the paradox you find within. I've always found my best work when I've been hit with a harder budgest and forcest to use my creativity on projects, the similiar goes with not always having the latest lens or the best in editing. I adore my thrift store scores and they are the cheapest equipment by far at under $5 a pop! - everyone always asks about those photographs more than my high tech stuff - (not that I don't love those toys too!)

June 8, 2010 |

j. vorwaller

I am in the beginnings of putting my gear together. I am slowly learning how to photograph. I have a Rebel XT with the lens it came with and recently bought the 50 mm/ 1.8 lens and a book. Slowly but surely I'm hoping to take better photos of at least my family and kids. I love all aspects of photography but since I'm in the medical field it's take a lot of effort in my part to get the kids out to practice on them. I'm hoping once I'm better I will be able to buy better lens but that won't be for a while.

June 8, 2010 |

Lorena Mora

I've got beginner equipment that meets my needs for now (I just keep having to remind myself of that). I do lust for some prime lenses and hope to upgrade at some point in the future, but like you, when it comes down to the mortgage or a new lens...the lens stay on the wishlist. I just have to make do for now and concentrate on improving my skills.

June 8, 2010 |

AnnieS

I love my gear but, I don't have super expensive gear. I'm like you, I stare at the pretty glass and I drool over the possibilities.. but, I don't think that I'd ever use any of it. I'd be too afraid.
I love my 50 and my 28.. I'm still learning but, my small stuff, is big to me and I like the challenge of doing the best I can and more with what I have.

June 8, 2010 |

Rachel - Southern Fairytale

Did you read my personal journal?!! I am right there with you in the glass envy and not DFL...thanks for helping me to feel normal :) Hooraaaay Hello Canvas!

June 8, 2010 |

Katy Leet

I needed to read this. I am always, always wanting better equipment. It's so nice to see that I'm not the only one! Thank you!! I love my camera and lenses for "teaching" me, but feel confined by how much better they could be. Of course, I'll still drool over the nicer stuff over the next year... but who knows if I'll be able to actually splurge.

:)

June 8, 2010 |

Danielle

Wow! I loved this post! Really made me rethink things-especially the bit about your husband continuing to race despite the limitations of his older boat. I have to say that your picture was gorgeous and your writing is sublime.
I have let myself feel limited by my gear, but really what is holding me back at this point is myself. I still have a great deal to learn and could do so much more with my current gear. I don't see myself getting any new gear for a while. Too many others things higher on the priority list.

June 9, 2010 |

Emily

This was comforting to read. I know my lenses aren't the best ever - but I like them. And I try not to read too much about them so I can keep on believing that they're a step on which I can stand and do anything. :)

June 9, 2010 |

Kristin

Amen, sister. I figure if I can rock my cheap stuff, some amazing things will happen when I have great gear in my hands. :D

June 9, 2010 |

Jess

Great post! At first, all I wanted was a DSLR and a portrait lens. Then, I had to have another portrait lens. Then I wanted a wide angle. Now, I lust after macros. Great reminder to just be grateful for what we have.

June 11, 2010 |

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I don't have a DSLR yet, but am desperately hoping for one. I feel frusturated because of the limitations that my camera comes with. Although, I'm working on upgrading soon!

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