Well, as it’s a rather crappy afternoon (weather wise) here today I thought I’d stay inside, sit by the fireplace, and jot down another blog entry.  I was just thinking about how the quality of our camera equipment can (and does) impact the end result from both a hands-on practical, technical standpoint, and also from the human psychological perspective. 

We often hear the phrase “a good carpenter never blames his tools” or, “equipment does not an artist make” which of course are both valid – however, it’s not quite that simple – because gear also does indeed matter.

Sure, it’s a given that no ultra expensive camera setup alone is going to teach someone how to create a stunning composition, just as no high-end editing software programme will ever be able to give someone the ability to work wonders with colour, form, structure, space, etc., nor have the natural feel and ability to capture wonderful photographs. These skills are only achieved through a combination of natural talent, study, constant practice, hard work, ability to learn, plus an inner passion.

However, the equipment that we use does make a difference on two fronts.

Firstly, once a competent level of understanding and ability are obtained – using pro grade gear will offer a superior end result.  IF you take good shots, regardless, using a top notch lens will produce a better image quality, nicer bokeh, less vignetting, and usually be much sharper throughout the entire focal range, etc.

When you finally hit that “sweet spot”  it will just be all that much greater.

An expensive camera body with a more sophisticated digital sensor system & functionality will promote and enable greater technique and allow the user to approach a larger range of possibilities and related issues.

This analogy not only applies to photography but any art that incorporates the use of modern technology.

Take music for example…

When I was a teenager with my first home-made guitar amp & lousy speaker cabinet, no matter how well I played, the tone always sounded kinda rough and thin, which was rather uninspiring to me. Then, a bit later on I purchased some decent Marshall gear, and suddenly “hey man, dat sounds soooo sweet!”

Not only did it actually sound much better to my ears, but because of that improvement in tone, etc - I was encouraged a whole lot more to continue learning and thus consequently went on to play guitar for 35 years and write/record my own music.

It’s just like trying to build a boat or house with cheap, poorly made tools – yes you can probably get the job done, but the ‘finishing’ touches won’t be so fine, it will end up kinda rough around the edges, and have the look of a lesser quality.

Secondly, we humans rely very highly upon (and respond to) “emotion” based feedback an awful lot. Therefore, if we achieve a pleasing, satisfactory & positive outcome, especially in the early stages of our endeavors, we then soldier on and overcome the obstacles that lie ahead of us. Good results inspire us and validate our self-worth, but if the initial results are somewhat negative or mediocre, then we often quit, quickly lose interest and move on to something else.

So, once again – the quality of equipment used - plays an important role here.

No, it won’t make us a great photographer all by itself – but it does “facilitate” the learning process required to become one. So obviously, the smoother the vehicle, the better the tool, the nicer the ride – the more enthusiasm & encouragement there will be.

KEV

Next up – “Flower passion”

Coming soon: