@BigMackCam, thanks for your interesting and engaging essay. My thinking mirrors your theme.
May I add a few thoughts?
I think that by emphasizing the gear, we risk losing sight of the 'bigger picture' -- that is, the
outcomes that we hope to achieve in our photography. This echos your idea of 'context'.
Outcomes
Desirable outcomes may vary from person to person, but these might apply to us hobbyists:
- Enjoyable shooting experience
- Ease and convenience in post processing
- Rewarding images
- Compliments from family, friends, photo club members, etc
- Manageable impact on our personal or family budget.
For professionals, I would add increased revenue and profit, client satisfaction and repeat business, and referrals.
So, one should ask, "Which camera format would likely maximize the outcomes that I desire?" Since you mention the new K-3 III, we might reflect on Ricoh Imaging's emphasis on the
shooting experience, and that aspect interests me. While my K-3 II has served me well, I would love an enhanced shooting experience in each of the tens of thousands of times that I will hold the camera up to my eye. Above all, it's the overall experience I value most in my photographic hobby.
It's gratifying when others compliment one's pictures. My local camera club (Camera Club of Ottawa -- celebrating 125 years) holds regular 'slide' and 'print' competitions. And guess what? We never learn what camera systems were used to produce any of the images; I'm sure the gear ranges from camera phones to point and shoots to larger format sensors and film. I've managed to achieve "Awards of Excellence" and "Honourable Mentions" for some of my submissions, and I'm not convinced that I would achieve recognition more frequently from a full frame camera.
Achieving these outcomes depends on a number of factors, not only the gear. For example, to improve my shooting experience in the c-c-c-cold Canadian winters, should I invest in a new camera, or should I look for a better clothing system to keep me warm and allow better manipulation of the camera? Could I afford both?
Focus on the Output
With respect to the final
output of our endeavours, consider the various elements in the chain from the subject to the display of a finished image. The photographer controls many of these elements. If a photographer is keen to improve their output, I would suggest that several key areas should be addressed: the subject (e.g., selection, lighting, composition); the camera system; the user's knowledge and skill in using the gear; colour management; image processing; digital display; and printing (e.g., media selection, inks, framing, ambient lighting). Indeed, the camera sensor format and system play a vital role,
but it's not the only element in the chain.
Worrying about What is worst or What is Best
In considering what is "best," I often think our discussions generally neglect a methodical approach to the question. Some of us might claim a couple of benefits -- the cost is lower, the IQ is higher, the gear is smaller, the shadows are less noisy, it's got a flip screen. But, as you imply, "best" really depends on the importance that individuals place on various criteria and the compromises that they're willing to accept to arrive at their 'sweet spot'. These criteria may include:
- Cost
- Dimensions and mass/weight (affecting portability, handling)
- Image Quality
- Lens availability
- File size (affecting data storage, processing speed)
- Operability and convenience of use
- User experience
In the final analysis, a user needs to be happy with their gear and their shooting experience. Some folks will place a large importance on cost, while others might strive for superior IQ at any cost. As you say, it's up to each individual to decide their personal objectives and choose accordingly.
In my case, I've been happy with my APS-C K-3 II. Because most of my photo sessions are outdoors, including city walks and trail hikes, I place a high importance on compact, lightweight equipment that allows me to attain a pretty good output while achieving my desired outcomes.
- Craig