If you've ever complained that your photography gear just isn't good enough to take a great photo, you need to watch the video below.
In it, Pulitzer Prize-winning photographer Oded Balilty tries his hand at taking photos with a cheap toy camera.
As you might imagine, Balilty's skills and talents as a photographer shine through, even though he used a toy to take the photos.
It really is incredible what he pulled off, but then again, there's a reason why he's won the Pulitzer Prize.
Of course, what makes these images so great is his ability to capture the light, focus on the emotion of the moment, and the knack for snapping the photo at just the right moment.
In other words, this experienced pro is capable of taking amazing images with any kind of camera, which is proof positive that buying the most expensive camera and lenses you can find really won't do you any good unless you're willing to put in the time and energy to practice your craft.
Learn More:
- Beginner Photography Tip: Choosing the Best DSLR for You
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And by avoiding buying ultra-expensive photography gear, you can accomplish other needed things.
For starters, if you buy used gear, you can challenge your skills with higher-end gear without paying higher-end prices.
For example, a brand-new Sony a7R II is $1,598.00, but a used one in excellent condition is $1,499.00. As another example, a brand-new Canon EOS Rebel T6i is $549.00 while a used one in like-new condition is just $419.00.
What's more, not buying the big, new, fancy gear and instead investing in cameras and lenses that have been gently used and cared for means that you can actually build a better kit with more things in it.
Who wouldn't want a nice camera and two or three lenses for the price of a brand new camera and one lens?!
When it comes down to it, investing your money in opportunities to learn more about photography - whether that's taking a class, buying a photography book, or going on a photography workshop - will get you farther than if you blow it all on the latest, greatest camera.
On top of all that, as demonstrated in the video, there's something to be said for working within the constraints of your gear and finding ways to be more creative.
Now, this isn't to say that you should buy cameras and lenses that are beneath your skill level...
However, switching things up from time to time and limiting yourself to using only your smartphone or only your mom's point-and-shoot camera can help you rediscover your creative eye.
Besides, a little challenge every now and then never hurt anybody!
If you're lacking for inspiration or otherwise just want to see some great photography, check out the full video above.
For more photography tips, be sure to visit DigitalRev TV on YouTube.
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- Buying Your First DSLR: Expectation vs Reality
- Here's Why a 35mm is the Best Lens for Travel Photography