Saving Up!

As some of you know, I’m currently living a little frugal in an effort to save up for my next camera. Why? Because I’m ready to go full-frame!

While my current camera is wonderful in many ways and suits most of my portrait needs, it’s time to take it up a notch. And, more specifically, it’s time to get REALLY serious about my landscape photography. The answer: a full-frame (Nikon FX body).

Now, don’t let this fool you. I am in no way a gear-junkie. After all, I strongly believe that it’s the photographer and lighting that make a striking image, and not the camera.

However, with that said, there are certain things I just can’t accomplish without a full-frame sensor… like:

Better performance in low-lighting conditions. I would love to shoot a starry night sky, for example.

Higher resolution. Now for the portrait side of my business, this really isn’t an issue. But, for landscape, it can be! And, that is sharper mega-sized images. I want to have the ability to produce a billboard sized image on demand. (What? Did you really not think I was in this for the long-haul?)

More image. Full-frame means just that – a fuller frame. In other words, I get MORE image. Lately, I’ve found the automatic 1.5x crop factor of my DX body to be frustrating. There are certain features of the scene I’m unable to capture because they can’t fit into the frame.

Having a full-frame sensor will not only enable me to do more with my landscape photography, but it will empower my portraits. My overall style is evolving in a more cinematic direction, and that more traditional frame is crucial. Speaking of cinematic, that brings me to my next point.

High quality video capabilities. I’m ready to explore filmmaking for personal and professional endeavors. I would also love to incorporate video into the services I provide.

Now, am I getting rid of my current camera? No way, Jose!
I LOVE my D90. She’s perfect. I love her compact size, performance and intuitive connection with me. I certainly won’t be replacing her.

I’m just investing in another passion tool to grow with. And, that’s the Nikon D800! It’s going to take me a few months to save up for, but it will be SO worth it…

(By the way, check out this amazing short! It was 100% shot with the Nikon D800, and by some pretty notable filmmakers. Not too shabby!)