October 29

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Your Gear, Your Style, Your Way

By Dan

October 29, 2012

I’m back from last week’s PDN PhotoPlus Expo, where I had a great time meeting with clients new and old, hanging with friends, new and old, checking out all the latest photography gear, and of course, eating slices of NY pizza every chance I got.

I’ll spend the rest of this week showing you some of the cool new products that I saw at the show, but before I do that, I wanted to prep you with this idea that I came up with while flying home.

Every time I walk the aisles of a trade show floor and see the endless array of booths filled with cameras, lenses, software, accessories, bags, packs, iGadgets, video doo dads and other photography whiz bangs, it occurs to me just how overwhelming it can be to narrow it all down into a workable kit.

Think about it. Every single item can be used in some way to create great imagery. Each tool and gadget has some kind of value in terms of adding technical capabilities and artistry to whatever kind of photography you do.

Obviously, you can’t use every single item, so you rely on reviews, advice from other photographers and your own experimentation to figure out what gear will be ideal for you and your style. It’s not always easy, though, because we’re all different. Gear and methods that work for one shooter may not work for you, even if your photographic styles are similar.

Keep this in mind: More than style or genre, it’s our own unique methods that set us apart from other photographers. That’s what you need to focus on when you’re thinking about buying new gear. In addition to picturing the type of photography that you could make with that item, consider how it might fit with your own style, budget and methods.

So come back tomorrow for my PhotoPlus Expo rundown, but today, mull over this block of words:

  • There is no right gear.
  • There is no right style.
  • There is no right way.
  • There is only your way.
About the author

Hi, I'm Dan Bailey, a 25+ year pro outdoor and adventure photographer, and official FUJIFILM X-Photographer based in Anchorage, Alaska.


As a top rated blogger and author my goal is to help you become a better, more confident and competent photographer, so that you can have as much fun and creative enjoyment as I do.


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