A Little Closer
“It is an illusion that photos are made with the camera… they are made with the eye, heart and head.”
– Henri Cartier-Bresson
I don’t currently have a true macro lens and haven’t had one since selling my Nikon gear over 12 years ago. But I do have a long zoom lens that has a fairly close focus range and acceptable sharpness that can kinda fill in that gap.
Most who have been serious or semi-serious about photography for a significant time would likely agree that photography should focus on its core principles. However, it doesn’t take much investigation to see that photography culture is heavily influenced by gear, driven by industry marketing, and shaped by social media dynamics. This fascination with equipment stems from the tangible excitement and potentiality of gear benefits, especially compared to the invisible, gradual, seemingly slow process of refining one’s craft through practice and study. For self-preservation, the equipment industry and online platforms perpetuate this cycle by promoting debates over brands and technical specifications rather than fostering meaningful discussions about artistry, technique, true needs and realistic results. It’s difficult to say no when buying the latest piece of equipment can seem like a shortcut to upping your game. I am certainly not immune to equipment lust, and I think both amateurs and professionals are often captivated by the allure of new tools, justifying the cost as a means to accelerated positive photographic progress.
So, after all that, is there a macro lens I’ve had my eye on? You betcha! But so far, my self-talk has kept a purchase at bay fairly easily.
Love the color contrast in that first one in particular. Interestingly, I used to salivate over new gear, but somehow, since starting multiple exposure work, I haven’t even looked at new gear. I guess when you are happy in a niche and the gear you have does what you need you stop looking.
Thanks, Howard. I think most of us go through a period when we lust after the latest and greatest gear, and then the excitement and fulfillment taper off. You can also find many examples of people doing excellent photography with some pretty old gear, where the gear. Then there’s retirement on a limited budget. Haha!
I also do not have a macro lens and haven’t for several years. I just can’t justify the cost because I would not use it that much. I learned to use the gear I have and keep it simple. I also have a long zoom lens I can use for more close up images.
I have gone through the stages of fascination with gear and the belief the gear will make me a better photographer. I read where they call it GAS. At this stage of my life I would prefer the money I spent on the gear. But then again, I am the photographer I am because of that gear.
If you enjoy new gear and can afford it, I don’t think there’s anything wrong with buying it. But I guess if you’re focused on improving your photography skills and the photos you produce, you usually come to see that the gear is only a small part of it. Take care and have a good week, Monte.