Cameras and lenses

I have used Canon cameras exclusively since my early 20’s – I find them reliable and backed by a huge array of lenses and accessories. Most of my early photography was done on a Canon AE1 film camera which I eventually upgraded to a Canon T90,this was the flagship of their range before they changed the lens mount to the EOS system. Ironically the AE1 still works but the T90 has packed in and can’t be repaired.

Using the new EOS system I acquired a Canon EOS 500 and then an EOS30 before the arrival of the digital age which for me was a revelation. Until then I shot most of my images on slide film using Fuji Velvia or Kodachrome but I was disappointed with the number of badly composed or exposed shots and the real irritation of setting up a slide projector and screen to show them properly. With digital all this went away and although the purists argued initially and I think with some justification that digital simply didn’t have the quality, the technology soon increased exponentially to the point where most professionals use digital.

My digital kit started with a Canon 10 D (6 megapixels) which is a superb camera and ideal for portraits. I then took the plunge and bought a full frame Canon 5D (12 megapixels) which produces truly amazing image quality. I also acquired a Canon 40D but never really got on with as I found the image quality lacking despite its 10.1 megapixel sensor. I therefore part exchanged this for my latest camera a Canon 7D which is truly amazing and has an 18 megapixel sensor. I have now upgraded the Canon 5D to its latest incarnation the 5D Mk2 I also use a Canon G9 compact which in good light gives superb images.

I have built up a fairly large stock of lenses over the years ranging from a Sigma 12 – 24mm zoom to a Canon 100 – 400mm zoom. Most are Canon L lenses which are not cheap but deliver exceptional quality and are built to withstand the inevitable knocks and scrapes. A downside to this is weight they are all heavy and as the years take their toll lugging a bag round with several lenses and a camera becomes more difficult.

In addition to all this I have accumulated a fair array of flash guns and other bits of kit all of which get used occasionally although I have to admit to being a gadget lover....

Despite all this technology I still sometimes come back from a day out with very few images which I would regard as good.

Digital imaging has solved the problem of exposure and colour balance etc but a successful photograph relies on the person behind the lens and in my case there is much room for improvement.