I love hearing about photo junkies spending thousands of dollars on the greatest and latest cameras knowing for a fact that having the latest-greatest fancy-pants camera will STILL NOT MAKE YOU A BETTER PHOTOGRAPHER. Remember this and save thousands of dollars! That being said, if you are going to invest thousands of dollars spend it on glass (camera lenses) because good glass is still key to higher quality, and not necessarily the newest cameras along with their marketing hype. Cameras depreciate faster than lenses and the latter hold their value longer. I’ve been with Micro Four Thirds for 8 years now. That’s a pretty good track record. Why do I recommend this format? Because it’s dirt cheap, affordable, excellent image quality, and the fact that it works well, being mirror-less technology. In the end, It’s going to be the practice and passion that you put into composing images that will help you grow to become a better photographer. Remember that and avoid the marketing hype. I purchase old discontinued camera bodies at steeply discounted rates and invest the money in glass instead. It’s been a while since I’ve purchased gear and I’m happy with my choices. Practice makes better photos!
Nathan, you’re preaching to one who chased the technology even if I realize that a newer camera is not going to make me a better photographer. So, you get an “Amen!” from this old man.
Just today I watched the LULA guys gushing about the A7RII. When the A7II was released, I was tempted because it would be an excellent platform for all my vintage glass. (I have a lot of Hexanons and they are crying for a full-frame body.) But I’m waiting. I’m not ready yet.
What I am doing is working on my craft. I’m practicing what I know and working on the post work. The rig I’m using now has plenty of capability for about anything I do, excepting wildlife. But I can adapt one of my long Nikkors or Tamrons easily (once I get them out of storage).
It is far better to spend energy working on the craft, studying the works of other excellent photographers, and practicing the post processing to get the best out of the images. A new A7, Nikon, or Canon body will not provide as much benefit as using what you have to the fullest.
Thanks for sharing your wisdom!