On our recent six week road trip I made a mistake that I warned others about in any number of programs and classes we conducted through the years. I packed one camera body which I had used infrequently in the month or two prior. We had limited space on this trip, so I pared my kit down considerably, only one camera body and two lenses. My reasoning, such that it was, had to do with size. I carry the camera nearly everywhere with me, and my standard tried and true body was bulkier and heavier. Wouldn’t it be better to have something lighter weight? I thought that it would be no problem, after all, this camera was an earlier version of the heavier one, and similar to my main camera of several years ago. I knew the controls and feel.
Yes, the controls were similar, and similarly placed, but sensor resolution, number of focus points, ISO range and other points were very different. I did get some good shots, after all, experience has to count for something. But, I managed some really bad shots on things that should have been standard ones for me, fumbling a few times looking for settings as the photo opportunity passed. I did discover that the older but new-to-me Canon 28 – 135 mm lens worked very well as an all around, every day lens, so all was not lost.
Upon our return the lens went on the camera body I’ve come to know best. Yes, it is heavier and bulkier. I guess I’ll start lifting weights, get a bigger everyday bag, and use the phone camera if I need a smaller, quick shot.
Nichter Photography PLUS 