It is all too common for a wide range of emotions to complicate the decision to upgrade the body of a camera. Perhaps there are fond memories associated with the camera, or maybe the familiarity has made it especially simple to use.
Unfortunately, it is sometimes necessary to set nostalgia aside in order to recognize when it is indeed time to update your camera or camera lens. Many of these signs are readily apparent, provided you understand what it is you should be looking for.
Obvious Signs Indicating the Need to Update Your Camera Body
If you have a point and shoot camera — sometimes called a digital camera — there are several plainly obvious signs it is time to you update your camera body. In the overwhelming majority of circumstances, each of the following issues is indicative of the need for a new camera:
- Camera is visibly broken or damaged
- Batteries or battery case reveal extensive signs of corrosion
- Built-in lens no longer opens or closes automatically
Although many of these issues can be addressed through repair, it is important consider the cost of repairing the camera relative to the cost of replacing it.
Subtle Indicators of the Need for an Upgrade
It is not always so easy to recognize that it is time to upgrade your camera. In fact, many of the most common reasons a camera might be replaced are quite subtle and require a bit of reflection on your part. If you have noticed any of the following subtleties, you might discover that a new camera is the best solution:
- Poor photo clarity
- Lack of specific features
- Inadequate functionality
Fortunately, many of these same issues can be addressed without replacing the camera. Of course, this requires an understanding of what might be achieved through a lens upgrade.
When Should a Camera Lens Be Upgraded?
Serious photographers tend to prefer professional-grade cameras featuring several different lenses, each of which can be used for a specific purpose in photography. Since these lenses are used for a variety of different purposes, it is also necessary to understand how each lens suits your specific photographic needs or if it is even worth considering a professional-grade camera. In order to make a decision, it is helpful to ask yourself each of the following questions:
- What do you hope to accomplish with your camera/camera lens?
- How serious are you about photography?
- Are you considering a professional career as a photographer?
- What kind of megapixels do you want to work with?
- Does name brand matter for your camera or lens?
Once you have answered these questions, you should have a greater deal of clarity regarding how to best proceed. As you go forward, there are a few additional issues to keep in mind when looking at the wide selection of cameras and camera lenses available to you. Serious photographers understand the importance of properly investing in equipment, so if you are indeed quite serious you ought to first carefully consider any budgetary constraints and determine the best approach from there.
Of course, with just a little time and effort, you may be able to find a more cost-effective version of the camera you are looking for, and it is always wise to remain keenly aware of what you want out of your camera and what specific purposes you will be using it for. After all, your specific photography needs should always be the greatest consideration of all.
About Hamish McLaren
Hamish McLaren is a professional photographer in Australia and maintains a digital publication sharing his photographs and tips for novices and experts alike.