You have this amazing camera. It cost you a small fortune. But your shots, well, they look no better than the ones you've taken with your camera phone or a point-and-shoot camera. Why?
Reason # 1: You’ve spent too much time obsessing over the latest gadgets online that you don’t have time to actually shoot.
You've watched every YouTube video review, you've been in every forum, and you’ve read every article about the latest gadgets in the market. With all these time you've spent studying, it’ll do you good to actually go out and shoot some photos. But, because you've spent most of your days figuring out which gear is the best in the market, you haven't even gotten the chance to actually try out your photography skills. So, put the smartphone or the mouse down, take up your camera, and take it out for a photo walk.
Reason #2: You've studied gadget reviews, instead of photography
While you're online reading about why your gear is the best out there, why don’t you try to go to websites that will actually help you use your gear? There are a number of websites out there, including this one that can teach you a thing or two about taking photographs, not just buying cameras.
Reason #3: Professional gear doesn't always translate to professional shots.
It’s a common misconception among non-photographers that professional gear will let you produce professional shots. The expensive gear does help, but it doesn't do the job for you. You actually need to put in the time and the effort to practice, practice, practice!
Reason 4: You were just caught in the bandwagon of photography.
These days, every other person has a DSLR. Of course, you wouldn't want to be left out of the latest trend. Photography actually takes passion, commitment, and investment, so it’s not enough to have the top-of-the-line gear to get you shooting like a professional.
Reason 5: The controls and functions of a professional camera are more complex
More advanced functions usually mean more advanced controls, so if you're barely familiar with basic photography, it’ll be harder for you to capture great shots using a DSLR that professional photographers use. Don’t feel bad; these people do this for a living. With some practice and a lot of studying time, you’ll be able to get it.
Reason 5: You’re buying pro gear to satisfy you’re G.A.S. (Gadget Acquisition Syndrome)
Do you have G.A.S.? It’s an addiction to buying the latest gadgets and then you reselling themt, so you can buy the new “latest thing”. The thing about G.A.S. is, the gadget doesn't stay with you long enough to get acquainted with it, so you were never able to master it, thus the amateur shots.
Reason 6: You bought your pro gear as a status symbol
Most people just like to lug around their cameras on their necks. It’s cool. It looks professional, but a person dressed in a suit isn't necessarily a businessman. You may dress the part, but you need a whole lot more than a high-end camera around your neck to take professional shots.
Reason 7: Because you don’t want to damage your gear, you won’t even take it out.
So, you went to the beach to take amazing landscape shots, but you barely took you camera out to shoot because you wouldn't want the elements to touch it. Guess what? The reason your camera is so expensive is because it’s weatherproof. Relax; it’s okay for your pro gear to get wet or to have some sand on it.
Reason 8: You lack basic photography knowledge
Instead of investing time and money on workshops or basic DSLR cameras, you splurge on the most expensive one in the market. What now? A professional camera won't provide you with professional experience in photography.
Reason 9: You don’t have mentors.
Whether it is from free online tutorials, online articles, or a buddy who’s been into photography for quite some time now, mentors will help you learn how to use that professional gear you’ve been lugging around. Take the time to be mentored and to learn from the best.
Reason 10: You have a camera that isn't the best for you
The best camera for one photographer may not be the best camera for all photographers. One brand isn't better than another. One model isn't necessarily the right match for you just because it’s the most expensive one on the market. Producing professional shots is about finding the DSLR that works best for you and with you.
Helpful links: Sell your old camera gear. OR See the best way to market your images.
Article by YD Photography