GETTING YOUR HANDS ON A NEW camera is always exciting, opening up a world of possibilities. But finding and buying the right camera can be daunting. There’s a lot of gear on the market with very different capabilities.
Buying an expensive camera won’t automatically make you a master wildlife photographer. That takes creativity, time and dedication. But using the right gear can make a massive difference.
Over the decades, many photographers have eyed my gear and tried to engage me in the ‘Canon or Nikon?’ debate. But brand doesn’t define you as a photographer. Camera technology is now so advanced, and many brands – including Canon, Nikon, Sony, Fujifilm, Leica, Panasonic (Lumix) – produce high-quality cameras that can deliver the goods. But photography is personal – it’s less about brand and more about finding the right system for your needs.
Online research is essential, and it’s worth asking other photographers for recommendations. But nothing beats having a camera in your hand and testing it out. If you’re about to invest in a new system, the more you can ‘try before you buy’, the better. If you know, rent out camera bodies and lenses.
