If you made it through the holidays without buying any photography gear, you may still think about later on. There’s nothing wrong with that, especially if an upgrade or an alternate camera is in order anyway. However, what you have to watch out for are gear traps, which could make you focus more on the camera or lens than photography itself.
In the video above, UK-based Sean Tucker shares his insights on the topic, having recently purchased a Sony a7C. He talks about developing a pragmatic mindset about purchasing gear. His intention is to avoid three major gear traps: spending too much on fancy cameras; “babying” gear so they don’t get used enough; and drawing motivation to shoot from the camera itself.
Ultimately, he reminds us that there’s nothing wrong with being excited and fascinated with photography gear. Collecting cameras and lenses isn’t a problem if you can afford it. However, you should also ask yourself, are you buying them primarily to shoot with or just to collect? Do you want to focus on becoming a skilled photographer, or are you content at being a collector?
Any insights you want to add on Tucker’s approach to buying photography gear? Do share them with us in the comments below, or in our group discussion if you’re already part of the Photofocus Community!
