Photography gear and trends for 2019 

As with everything, the trends change based on the global needs and requirements from the art side, the basic man in the street, through to the commercial scene. Knowing Photographers need to observe and be on the lookout as to what the photo libraries are seeking and what people are looking for online, print media and in their homes. This is what society dictates and it is important that one keeps in check to stay within these trends.

To stay within the reality of these so called trends, photographers need to visit the likes of the larger image banks and photography libraries for references and direction. The move is now focused on what is happening in society, how humans perceive the challenges that they are surrounded by and conditioned to in order to survive in both business personal needs and pleasure.

We all have an eye and a taste for what we regard as perfect in all genres of photography, from colour to black and white, from textured impressions to clean high key images. One needs how to adapt and use this talent in knowing how to operate their camera according to the environment that they are placed.

What camera gear do I need?

Cameras and camera gear is forever evolving as technology is the forerunner in the decision-making process. The big question is what camera do I buy and what lenses do I need to get the results that I am looking to achieve. Fortunately, for those that have an understanding of photography, lenses remain lenses, it’s about “glass” and the purpose for you are using that lens in terms of subject and genre. 

Lenses 

OK, let us not overlook the costs of lenses, unfortunately the cost has a major impact, this is where the “glass”, and in turn,the speed and quality of the pronounces itself.

My suggestion is to avoid the entry-level kit lenses, they will only provide frustration and disappointment in the final outcome. This is disheartening and often results in passionate and avid photographers losing interest and self-worth in photography which is sad and unnecessary.

All major players in the market place offer these introductory starter lenses, my advice is to buy your lenses with care and caution. Read up on the various online sites for advice and guidance to avoid making costly mistakes in the buying process. There are many affordable intermediate lenses other that offer great results and “glass” at affordable prices, if you don’t have a large budget like most people, this is the direction to follow in making a good choice.

Also, consider the second-hand market. The second-hand market offers a wide range of well looked after intermediate and professional lenses at great prices. One should pay half that of a new lens, just make sure you have the lens checked out at a liable store or though someone that is knowledgeable and trustworthy. This is very important as lenses do get scratched and damaged from overuse and misuse, from the condition of the glass to the sensors that operate the lens when mounted on the camera.

Cameras 

Your choice of camera is subject not only to your budget but to your photography needs. Be careful walking into a shop without having done some homework. Firstly the choices are overwhelming and secondly, the prices can be steep. You need to make a choice as often the salesperson will lead you to buy the wrong camera, you don’t want to be stuck in this position and compromise on starting over with this process and losing a great deal of money at the same time.

Make sure that you focus on a brand with good back up and service. There are so many brands on the market all offering wonderful specs and gimmicks, be careful, its about quality, not quantity. My suggestion is look at Canon as a first choice, as this brand generally ticks all the boxes from entry level DSLR’s through to the professional models.

Although mirrorless technology is stepping in and making an impact, unless you have the budget to buy top of the range, rather stick to the DSLR as there is only one moving part and generally well built to last. Intermediate DSLR cameras will give you around 200 000 actuations or shots, maybe more. 

If possible, stay away from the entry-level camera bodies, due to the fact that they are “cheaply constructed” and will not last as long, if well used. The components and hardware also lack in quality and performance. My suggestion is to consider the intermediate range, generally, this level of camera has proved its worth across the brands to be well manufactured all around.

The secondhand market is also something to consider, as there are many photographers and hobbyists alike that either lost interest, decided to upgrade, or purchased the wrong model when starting out.

A camera body with a low shutter count normally shows that the camera has been lightly used. A low shutter count is anything below 15000 actuations. If you want to check the number of shots the camera has taken, there is software available, normally at the larger more established camera outlets that will determine this for you. This is something that you pay for it you want to download yourself, so rather save this time and the costs and visit your local camera store for the answers.

As mentioned, its the lens that should take priority over the camera, the camera is really the workhorse, where the lens provides the images quality and the satisfaction to the photographer.

Once the mirrorless technology is on par, then maybe make this option to mind. Currently, the brands being praised in the mirrorless sector of the market are Sony, Fuji film and Nikon, with Canon just behind. Needless to say, if you want a good affordable entry-level mirrorless camera, consider viewing the Fuji range, they are definitely making waves in the industry./

If you would like to take your photography skills to the next level sign up for one of our pro & advanced photography workshops or if you’re just starting out, check out our beginner photography courses.