I upgraded from nothing to an X-T5. That was a pretty good upgrade.

If you’re constantly looking for new gear, then you’re not a photographer but a techie. A lot of KZfaqrs push new bodies and lenses.

Nothing beats a camera that is within your budget.

I really love following you because you’re one of the few that advocate for not spending money on camera gear, and rather embracing what you have.

I used to shoot with Sony, and I had all of the latest and greatest bodies and GM lenses. After a while, it was just work to me... I had no interest in shooting for myself anymore. So, I purchased an X-Pro3 to play with on the weekends, and within three short months, I was so happy shooting on my X-Pro3, I had sold all of my Sony gear, and 'downgraded' to Fujifilm. I now shoot professionally on Fuji with XT5 bodies, and I shoot with my X-Pro3 fro myself with some Voigtlander manual focus lenses. I am IN LOVE with photography again. Technically speaking, my Sony gear was better in every way to Fujifilm (dynamic range, auto focus, noise and the list goes on), but none of that actually matters. These days every camera is good enough, and because I love photography again through playing with film-sims, the dials for my manual exposure, and the overall feel of fuji, I can say it was the best decision ever. There is truely something magical about Fujifilm (in my opinion). So, that is a short story of the best 'downgrade' ever!

I'll classify myself as a hobbyist and have gone through multiple brands and models. I've always wanted a Leica and now that I've gotten 3 of them, he is right. It wears off and it will not make you any better. If you truly care about good/improving your photography the gear really doesn't matter for the most part. However if you're just a causal shooter like me that enjoys shooting for the experience (even though most of the shots are crap), get the camera that you enjoy using.

I think it’s better to invest good lenses than the latest bodies! If you find a great lens that you love to work with, you will keep it for years and years but you will change the bodies.

For many years I photographed seaside sunrises and sunsets, but I got tired of the subject and for some time I was looking for inspiration. Something started pulling me towards street photography and I found you. I just downgraded from Canon EOS R with couple of lenses to second hand Fuji XT-20 with 23mm f2... i love this little camera and colors of the photos. Now i fell so light - literally and figuratively.

I "upgraded" from an SLR setup to a mirrorless system, but I'm now going back, I just don't enjoy the mirrorless way of shooting, the mirror slap of the mirror and the tactile feeling of the mirror mechanism is something so integral to my photography experience that I never knew I'd miss. It's something I never would have known if I hadn't tried it but it's not something I've ever seen mentioned in any gear videos.

I recently 'upgraded' my Olympus OM-D E-M10 III to a Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, which I know is not much of a upgrade, but for me it was important to have a camera that is weather sealed because I want to be able to also shoot during some typical Dutch weather (aka rain). Both camera's I have bought second hand (around 250 - 300 Euro) as I am a beginner, and did not wanted to spend a lot of money. Maybe in a few years of so when I still enjoy taking photo's (mainly street and trips), and still learning about lighting and composition I will upgrade to a much better camera, but for now they are more than good enough for me.

This is why I like your channel. You’re not one of those other KZfaqrs that put those click bait titles like “YOU NEED THIS CAMERA IF YOURE A PHOTOGRAPHER”. No, you don’t . You don’t need FF (unless you make a living shooting in uncontrolled low light environments like weddings) You don’t need the BEST autofocus. People used to shoot with the same camera for decades. I know someone that has a old Nikon DSLR that’s 12mp (costs 70 dollars now) with the cheapest kit lens, and his pictures are better than mine, even with the XT4 and prime lenses. Difference is he’s been a photographer for 30+ years. He refuses to buy a new camera, and he is a developer so he definitely has the money to splurge on one. Oh also he is legally blind in one eye… when he started showing me images it made me re think the whole gear thing 😂

It is about people and their skills not tools. Still someone asked me whether he needs to update his R6 to R6II even he just got his R6 less than 6 mounthes, and he is one of gear master who likes taking pics for his kid at mid of day under the brightest sunshine. He complained Canon does not have the Dynamic Range as Sony :) He sold all his gear before to switch to Sony, and now he wants Canon's Auto focus, then switch it back...... Same as playing Disc Golf, all those guys love asking what kind of disc you use since they saw you toss disc straight and far. You can borrow him what you are using and watching some fun.

Totally with you on that. The only times I ever upgrade any type of gear is either because the thing is literally falling apart beyond repair, or because of physical limits that make it near impossible to use it or extremely frustrating. I don't care if my camera doesn't shoot as quickly as others, and if I was happy with the image quality when I bought it, I will remain happy with it. I only retired my old SLR camera when the local lab closed down and I had no good place to bring rolls to. Only went from a crop-sensor DSLR to a fullframe mirrorless with the pandemic, when I got tired of not being able to shoot low light indoors during lockdowns. Things like that. Right now, I'm beyond happy with my kit and hopefully I won't have to upgrade it for another decade or two.

Regarding our collective obsession with gear and not asking the important questions regarding light and the environmental conditions…your absolutely right. In fact, Ansel Adams made same observation. :-) "I am well are of a compelling impulse of photographers to discuss, with collector's dedication, the equipment and materials they and their colleagues use, down the smallest detail. I have never known painters to debate with such intensity the kind of canvas, paper, brushes, and paints used in their creative work. With photographers, however, such knowledge is traded in a kind of inner language of arcane significance. More meaningful would be discussion of such matters as the shapes, luminance values, and colors of the subjects." -The Making of 40 Photographers "Rock and Surf"

Great video, and the last point was one of the ones that hit me hardest. A couple of years back I talked myself into buying a new camera, and consciously ignored the obvious shortcomings of it for my personal shooting style and needs, and regretted it within months. Sold it to MPB and got a decent return, but still, you're right - that was a good lesson painfully learned...! Also, agreed regarding people asking "What camera did you shoot that on?" because once any photo gets the Lightroom treatment, it could realistically be from any brand or model camera!

I bought a used X-T30 a few years back. I’d love a new X-T5, X100V maybe, but I can’t help thinking how gutted I’d be getting a scratch on a brand new one. As it is, it’s already a few years old - if I scuff it it’s not gonna break my heart (too much) 😂 This for the video, always interesting to watch your vids 👍🏻

I upgraded from my old Nikon D7000 to a Fuji XT-5 and man, what a difference! Those ten years of advancements are so worth the money. Not only the performance and features but also how small and light it is. It's a joy to use.

I update my cameras and lenses so seldom (switched from X-T1 to X-T3 this summer) that new gear always gives me a surge of inspiration which makes the photography fun again.

I agree, and I have also upgraded because I wanted smaller and lighter. Went from full frame to MFT just so I would have my camera with me more of the time.

Really great video, Roman! Sound advice. I’ve had an X-T2 since it was released and haven’t upgraded until now. It’s gotten quite janky now and I’ve needed to get a new camera but went the second hand route through MPB! I recently started my own KZfaq channel so just wanted to thank you for the inspiration as you’re one of the channels that has really pushed me to start my own YT journey 😊

A lot of new/novice Fuji owners think that the Fuji camera is weather proof when they see the WR on the lens or camera. They look somewhat disappointed when they find out it stands for weather resistant, not proof. Thought about a X-T5 but realized it's more camera than I'll ever need & never totally explore its capabilities. Got a good deal on an open box/demo X-T4 & have a buyer for my X-T3. Upgrade was not that costly in the end.

Even professionals shouldn't be so focus on gear. I have a small photography and filmmaking business, it's my first year: I much rather prefer focusing on my skills, on my connections and everything else than be always like "I need that 3000€ camera". Great video, as always!

A brilliant down to earth video Roman, and it's actually inspired me to go and pick up one of my cameras and go out to play 😀

Totally agree with your thoughts, Roman! For 25 years I used a Nikon FE2 with three Nikkor Series E Lenses and it never occurred to me that I needed to "upgrade." Fast forward to the internet, social media, and KZfaq and the thought is presented seemingly on a daily basis by "Gear KZfaq Reviewers" -- but I've learned it's the person behind the camera that makes the difference, not the camera!

I upgraded my 10 year-old dslr with a new one due to a lack of frames/sec. In event and documentary photography it makes a significant difference if you only have 3 f/s. or 11 to work with. My mirrorless new camera even offers 23 f/sec. which really helps me getting the shots I always wanted to achieve (but just couldn´t with my "granny" as I call my old cam). Upgrading makes sense if a certain type of lense alone will not help your purpose.

Fantastic advice Roman, love your open and honest answers - very few people would say your last point. It’s so true. I’ve had mixed experiences with upgrades, but finally found my happy place through my experiences. Keep up the awesome work. 👏👏

I've been taking photos on and off for about 48 years, I know new gear won't make a lot of difference to my shots but it doesn't stop me buying it 🤣 I love the thrill of experiencing a new camera or lens and learning how to use it 🤪at the moment I shoot with a Canon M5, Canon R & R3, shooting with the R3 is such a pleasure, it feels so good to hold (I have big hands) I love the ergonomics of it, however my best and favourite shots where taken on the M5 or my old 7D that I gave to my son.

Great video, Roman. Very sound advice. Your views on gear have saved me spending a bunch of cash that I could put to better use. I will eventually have to upgrade, but as hobbyist, I'm enjoying the process and experience of shooting with my Canon 70D Loving the Travel Channel 👏🏾👏🏾👏🏾

thanks you for the well made video and content. i really like the photos of the cityscapes and streets - excellent framing and lighting

I completely agree with you (this is one of your best videos).

One of the best videos about G.A.S. , explanations, shots...GOOD WORK

Thanks Roman. Very good advice

Thanks for the advised. Appreciate it.

I have always had a problem with knowing the difference between what I want and what I need. 😆

Props on including the “experience” section on prioritizing switching to a more compact rig that you can more easily take with you. I “downgraded” from an X-T3 to an X100V for greater portability, and it made a huge difference in how often I have my camera with me to capture scenes & moments.

Great video Roman I love my XT-4 but think the XT-5 looks great but I’m even happier with my camera thanks to your video Well done 😊

Totally agree with your views. I have the X-S10 and been thinking about upgrading but then I think…..we’ll why, it has everything I want and it’s a great little camera. I’ve now decided to keep it and use my funds to travel more. Great video Roman, cheers. 👍🏼

My gradual migration into mirrorless is primarily a weight issue as the dslrs are getting heavier to carry as I age. I have found that there has been greater innovation in software tools over the last 5 years than in hardware tools and now images I captured more than 10 years ago are holding up very well against captures on the latest cameras. If you are going to upgrade it’s better to buy used from KEH or MPB. I recently purchased a Olympus EM 1 Mark II from MPB for $600 to replace an aging EM 5. It has at least 80 percent of the functionality and the same image quantity as the new OM-1 for 1/4 the price. Buy used and invest the savings in good lenses where the real upgrade impact will be most noticed in your photography

Loved this video, particularly the last point 😄

Thank you, really good ideas.

Excellent well thought out view points! Best Regards, Jay

10:44 This is a very good lesson... And after switching between 5 cameras I still dream about full-frame camera with IBIS... Even though I won't notice a huge difference probably, because I don't use my camera much. The desire to buy a new camera gives hope that I will become better, that I will go out for a walk more often, but in the end nothing will change. Millions of professionals use APS-C cameras and even MFT ones, but I complain that I don't have enough aperture, that's stupid. I understand it, but I just cannot control myself.

Totally agree with you!Hope you enjoyed Lisboa ☺️

I agree with you. Many thanks...

Mr. Fox makes some solid observations about the psychology of photography -and he may even be helping his sponsor.

I completely agree!

I have three cameras that use for my 9-5 job, they are technically brilliant and I have a fleet of lenses to cover a number of requirements. In MY time I use a single small body camera with a fixed 50mm and I will never update it because it does everything I could ever need to on the street, that small camera brings me so much joy and keeps me engaged and in love with photography when working with cameras day in day out could result in me losing my personal passion for the medium. My advise to myself has always been for my personal work, keep things simple. I don't need the latest tech, the best lenses, the newest this or that, just kleep it simple and focus on the skills of grass roots image composition and the pure joy and challenge of getting out there and challenging yourself. Like any other thing be it the newest TV's, cars, computers, consoles, if you're chasing the newest thing, you will never be satisfied. Canon, Sony etc behave like Apple and other major brands now in that they promote consumerism by releasing models of camera every single year with WITHHELD technology to keep you buying the latest models.

I recently did exactly what you said: sold my Canon 80D + 3 lenses (2 of them big/heavy) and bought a Fuji + 1 zoom + 1 prime. Oh god, I feel so light and agile with the small kit. The difference is HUGE. I don't even know how I was able to carry almost 2kg in my hand all day. Also it's way easier to do street photography when you're not pointing a bazooka at strangers.

Great video and insight. thank you brotha 🙏🏼

Great advice.

Great insight mate. Cheers

Great video on this subject and like you been there and done it .

Highly recommend MPB, great service!

This was a very good balanced video! You showed empathy to different people in different situations. As someone who wants to make a KZfaq channel as a business I bought the Panasonic S5 Mark I last year. At the time I was not passionate about camera gear (I was when younger but then I had my phone photo and video period) So I took the research of what to invest in my KZfaq channel more logically than emotionally. The Panasonic S5 was the best for my needs at the 2000$ price range (and it came with 2 !!!! Lenses for the price) I got it knowing it’s limitations (AF). After getting it and learning how to use it I love it. From the way it feels in the hand to the results it produces. As I have always wanted a 2 camera setup I will be getting the Panasonic Lumix S5 Mark II (And I will keep my Mark I) The Mark II fixes almost all limitations and improves in other areas. It is a revolution not just an evolution. However as you mentioned with your Fuji camera, the Mark II will NOT produce a better image as the sensor is the same. If you do not need the improved AF you can skip the update. In conclusion the main reasons for an upgrade are: - if it gives you MAJOR Quality of Life improvement (as you said you can upgrade to a SMALLER camera and feel better) - if it removes a limitation - if it will help you make money And I watched a Pierre T. Lambert video on some lens and he was thinking in terms of: Do I need this gear or can I invest in a trip/plane ticket Maybe you need a change of scenery and conditions to ignite your creative spark.

Solid video as always. If anything I think I'd upgrade from my X-T30 to get IBIS for use with my vintage lenses, or something with weather sealing as in and around the rain/snow are some of my favourite times to take photos. That being said, the X-T30 is very compact, and I'd worry about losing that compactness, as it helps to encourage me to bring it out wherever I go, just in case I have the opportunity to use it. I reckon I'll end up using the X-T30 till it bites the dust as it were.

Wise words Roman!

Nice advice!

This is the title they've attached to your video in DIY Photography "HERE’S WHY YOU PROBABLY SHOULDN’T UPDATE YOUR CAMERA GEAR (YET)" I saw it and smiled; I'm still shooting on a D700

great video and a very interesting topic to discuss. I do downgrade my gear on purpose for at least two reasons. first of all to focus only on my photography skills and than second to get the best out of it. This helps me to improve my photography level a lot and it's challenging as well.

Great info, thanks

Hi Roman, I totally agree with you, but I have had a rather different experience recently, I, like many other hobby photographers, had hit a little rut. I own an x-pro3 an XT-3 and even a little x30-pro. what really excited me and got me back taking photographs was buying (from MPB incidentally) an XE-1 with a 27mm pancake lens ( the MK2 with the aperture ring). The cut down experience where the simple exposure triangle knowlwdge alone with manual zone focusing got me back in a zone. Street is already more exciting with this rather old camera and lens combination.

Completely agree with you specially when you mentioned the part of boredom and uninspired. I am currently going through this moment. I almost bought a new camera thankfully 😅 I didn’t. I have started to process how can I get out this creative rut, what’s impacting this mood for I can get to back to taking photos again. Cheers Roman

You last comment was the best! Great video!

Lisbon is beautiful !! But there’s more of Portugal 😊 Thanks for sharing and another great and beautiful instructive content. Cheers

Totally agree, in fact I made a video similar to this after I bought and returned my X-T5. I just liked my X-pro2 better. However, I’m looking at the Q2 because it’s just better. I love the build quality, the beautiful image quality and the one camera, one lens limitations. Plus I love Leica colors. I’ve been shooting Fuji for 7 years and I almost only shoot BW because I don’t like the colors. I am however keeping the xpro2 because it’s a special camera.

The excitement of camera purchase never gets old

I chose to upgrade my gear 2 years ago because I wanted to switch to a mirrorless and lighter setup. My old camera wasn't bad, but the new one is so much easier to carry around and I really like mirrorless. So for me, it was worth the money and I regret nothing. Now I ordered a 50 mm equiv. lens, which will most definitely not make me a better photographer but I wanted one for so many years (and now it's on sale) - for the DOF and especially for darker scenes. My kit lens goes down to f3.2 at roughly 50 mm which is just not enough, I don't like the ISO noise that I get in these images, due to APS-C and, well, the camera. Also, I do have a film camera with a 50 mm prime (and no other lens for it) and really enjoy using that, I suppose the limitation of not being able to zoom makes me think more about the photo. With this camera and lens, I consistently took more photos with compositions that I like, so the decision feels right. While I do fear missing out on some photo opportunities, at the same time I think having this fear doesn't make much sense. I'd rather have less good photos than more bad ones that I took without thinking enough. Aside from all that, I didn't upgrade or buy anything and while I do like macro lenses, it just doesn't make sense. The possibilities I have right now are already almost endless and I think that adding one whole genre of photography to that would lead to confusion or a lack of focus. And the good thing with lenses is: they are here to stay, we have lenses in the household that are decades old and still work, and a 50 mm prime isn't exotic enough to be a huge financial risk. One more thing: I think enjoyment is tremendously important. Whatever it is you use, scissors if you're a tailor, the hammer of a smith, the press of a bookmaker, the keyboard of a programmer - if you don't like the tool, can you fully enjoy what you do? If someone buys Fuji for the experience and they love it, that's great and as it should be (this applies to almost everything). And the last point you made is important, most of us have so much time left in our lives that one mistake, like buying for the wrong reason or upgrading although it's unnecessary, won't be the end of the world. Just do it better next time and you'll be fine.

Greta video thank you

Thanks a lot for this video, it was exactly what I needed! I have Canon EOS R with 24-105mm and another 50mm. I keep seeing lots of people on Instagram with Sony camera and funny enough, the algorithm only suggests people with high number of followers. Even though I'm not into that, it creeps into you, and I kept thinking I need to change Canon to Sony, even though I love my camera and I think that Canon lenses are on a budget compared to the Sony system. I get bored because I don't challenge myself with new stuff, I keep shooting the same and the same, no wonders I am bored! Thanks a lot, Roman! ❤

The first one about pro level features is very true and something I hadn't really thought about. I am guilty of this one and often times I'll see others justifying all weather sealed pro 1.4 lenses, and the latest and greatest auto focusing FF body- only to find out that they intend to take photos of their upcoming newborn baby and 'don't want to miss the shot'. The baseline/boredom point is something a lot of us really need to hear. Sitting here with gear that I obsessed about and purchased last year, only to be bored with it scouring YT and obsessing over a different camera...

Thank you for this video. I’m not a pro and sometimes we want the newest top of the line but as you said we don’t need that and we won’t use all the newest features better to save money for better lenses

Exactly why I still shoot a XT2 but would love some prime lens upgrades.

I am one of those people who only upgrades my equipment when the old equipment breaks. The exception was when I got my used XE4. I needed a camera I could fit (conceal) in my pocket because I do urban night photography solo. It is dangerous in the US for a woman to do. I originally was going to get a 100v but they are so hyped no one had them in stock. For less than that price I got the XE4 and two lenses - a 27mm and a Sigma 55mm. The Sigma made the camera easier for me because I usually shoot Nikon and getting used to the aperture ring has been tedious (both Nikon and the Sigma use a dial)

My camera buying advice outside of the typical advice is to only buy camera equipment you can afford to replace. If you cant replace it you will leave it at home when things get adventurous, meaning you will miss some of your best photo ops. I can drop my xs10 and sigma 18-50, 70-300 or the 2.0 primes off a canoe and buy replacements as soon as I have service.

Nice to see Lissabon again. I was there last Sunday. Tip: take the high speed train to Faro. You will love it there.

Thanks

Hi Roman, really good content! I have been watching your videos a lot lately. In 18mm f1.4 lens review video you said you didn't go with the 23mm because you could easily crop the photos to 35mm focal length if you need to. May I ask how do you crop to 35mm in the post? Just guesswork or there's any crop settings available in your editor? Thanks mate!

Great video Roman, full of common sense as usual, selling my Ferrari tomorrow 👍

Another fantastic video, Roman - and very wise. I actually am in the minority because I don't upgrade per se. I just buy because I happen to just LOVE cameras and so I collect them. I'll buy a broken film camera for the looks or a micro 4/3 for the experience of how good or not the IBIS works. I've sold a full frame Nikon and the next day bought a Rolleiflex. It's some kind of illness, I think!!

Good vid. When are you coming to Dubai next ?

I wanna see a video where you use the GFX100s + GF50mmf3.5 ‘pancake’, plz.

I used to upgrade because I wanted a change, or thought that one feature or another would be a big upgrade, but it never was. I use a X-T2 with a viewfinder that has burn in, wifi doesn't work, and regularly locks up, but I love the thing. I'm tempted to upgrade to the X-t3 (the X-T5 just came out), but I'm still not sure if the money justifies the upgrades. I'm trying to end my "shiny new thing" wanting ways.

Lisbon

I’m thinking about upgrading my XT-3 to a XT-5. I do a fair amount of travel photography and I’ve got a beautiful Fuji XF prime lenses that are not weather sealed and are f/1.4’s and 56mm f/1.2. With your H2 camera body are you using the older primes? And if so, have you ever done a side-by-side comparison with the newer lenses that will resolve that sensor better? Or have you not seen a difference at all with the older lenses, if you have them.

Been there. Done that. Started with a 12mp Nikon the size of a briefcase. Bought an Olympus Pen, bought a Leica. Sold it 5 months later. Sold my XT-3 (to mpb) and bought an XT-5. None of the above made my photography better - Just the new camera bounce of taking the same crap images.

Good video

I do hope people listen to you as it all makes perfect sense. If people buy the same camera as you so they can photograph like you, then they will realise it's not the camera! However, on the plus side, they now don't have an excuse, so maybe just maybe they will up their game and try harder. For me, the XT3, kit lens, & 55/200 went, the XT5, 16/80 and 70/300 came in, The Ibis and the XT3 type screen did it for me. Now I just need an 23F2.

The right tool for the right job. I choose to use Fuji bodies. That means I have given up having the best focus. Sony & Canon can make that claim. Do I need the best? Is close enough good enough for me? Does my body have the features I need & want? Are my images pleasing enough for me? Can I afford the new kit? Answering these questions will determine whether I upgrade my kit. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret).

So true...I upgraded from xt3 to xt4 because the xt4 had features I had been awaiting ... ibis, still-video switch, flippy screen, better battery ... for me, the weathersealed xt4 ticks all the boxes, so I have no interest in the xt5 or the h2 series. Throw on the 70-300 zoom with it's pseudo-macro and I'm happy all day. For an edc, the x100v is great ... weather sealed, tilt screen, leaf shutter, flash (leaf shutter and flash is great for fill flash), improved lens, built-in ND filter usable with stills and video, hdr+ when needed, usable digital zoom(never though I would say that) ... I don't live off photography ... it's a hobby ... so I find gear with features important to me, I can stop looking. H2 series? Nice but don't need it. XT5? Don't need 40mp. Tilt screen... ugh. GAS? Hey, I just got a bowlback mandolin that I now need to learn to play ... who says GAS is just for cameras?

Upgrading camera gear really depends if you are a pro or hobbyist meaning if one you are getting income from images and a new camera has more options vs just playing around but serious about new styles of images. Videos is maybe the also want a new thing but a lot of work in post. All things are now bundled into one box. If you have a lot of lenses for your camera you may need to stay with the same brand. One thing to think about is software, I have several older digital cameras a point and shoot with telephoto 15+ years old and a DSLR 10+ years old todays software can make images look better. The problem in the old days was software being expensive like PS and Lr both cost $800+ so you had to use a makers software. A reason I went to another was 1. It came with an expensive SW but only $30 2. With a $20 adapter I could use all my very old film lenses (all fast glass 1.4,1.8, many 2.8) as well as my DSLR lenses 3. On camera apps a digital filter, toy look, time lapse, lens correction and a lot more 5. It was the HDR era so one model backeted 5 @ +/- 3EV (many uses) 6. It had night vision also. Upgrade again same maker 3 years later IBIS no need for sticks and finding while using it would do 3 @ +/- 2EV with no sticks in a very high dynamic area Canyon while other in the group were on sticks doing long exposure while I was all over even on my belly clicking away. One thing to always remember is the reviews are by pros holding out a carrot for a maker trying to get you to stop using your handy phone camera that also does video. Yes you can spend a few hours in post to edit but remember the camera also has an auto mode that you pay for too. Lenses are forever except when a maker goes from DSLR to Mirrorless that can make you able to go to another maker and sell your old lenses. 1. old film lenses (fast Glass from the past no lens correction needed) 2. Bracketing on day tour 3. Night tour laying on by back hand holding 4. The first time seeing the Milky Way with only a 16-35mm f/4 lens at 16mm Lastly just a hobbyist that made a good decision 9 years ago.

I have a Fuji X-T3 and cant see any reason to change it of my photography (not interested in doing video). I'll be buying an X-T1as an extra camera once I see a bargain.

I actually went the other direction, downgraded. Started out in mirrorless with an X-2. Found out I preferred the earlier Trans2, and consequently traded it for an x-E2, which I much prefer, in form as well. As I could care less about video or action photography, having an upgraded model wouldn’t do me any good. $375 in mint, very low shutter condition, a bonus Ta Boot!

True facts 👌 but I’ve got to buy a new lens or camera every year just to make me believe it will make me produce better photos

I bought a new camera and 2 lenses in January, switching from panasonic to Fuji, so it'll be a while before I do that again.

That is precisely my situation. Im selling mine xt3 shutter count 4,5 with 16-80 and 10 24 lenses with some tripods extra batteries and some vintage Nikkor for 1600 euros with the hope of buying a better camera but let me explain how I feel about that. I've somehow convinced myself if I invest more money in fuji gear it will be a waste of my money and I will dig a deeper hole for myself if I want to change later. I'm like don't remember when I had a proper trip in nature( I shoot mostly woodlands) for some photography., I feel that I will never reach the full potential of my hobby with this APSC camera and I'm aware that I do even don't invest in skills to become better at this genre of photography, just hoping that better gear will give me much better results.

KZfaq and much of the rest of the media seems to be about flogging stuff and with so many review and comparisons sites out there trying to make a living through building up excitement about the next big thing (or really incremental and obscure) upgrade it isn't surprising that GAS seems rife. Over the last four years I have done quite a bit swopping of kit. That is because I have been finding my way as I now have more time to engage with photography and improve my practice. Most importantly as I progress I find myself expanding my range of interests and moving towards different genres. Frankly there is a bit of GAS involved, however I'm big enough to own that. I also need to add I've made a bunch of mistakes as well. Which is a bit of a bummer. The key things I've learned are these. Firstly don't rush into buying kit. What genres are you interested in? Second prioritise lens range over all else. Then work out how you are going to display or output your images. And pick a sensor resolution to suit. If you need to print and crop hard to do so, a high mp sensor is going to deliver results. 40mp + is ideal. Then tracking and auto focussing. What do you actually need? Finally and far from the least important, are do the systems on your list feel good in the hand? Do you like using them in a tactile way? Does the screen info and the menus help you or get in the way? Is weight of lenses and camera a factor? I have answered those, to some degree and have a Sony A7R IV bought used which is a tool. I buy used where possible. X-T5 for low weight and all the great stuff it brings. X-E4 which is my favourite. Not a perfect solution. More than good enough for years to come. And I know, I've been luck enough to have some cash in the bank. If I hadn't my set up would have been rather different.

I totally want an x-t5 for the megapixels , on the other hand with my x-e4 I try to frame better so I don't need cropping . conundrum lol . At the same time I want a canon R8 cos I still use ye olde 6D2 and 7D . Yes cameras are an addiction (looks at lotto)

Ideally I’d like to be able to borrow my next upgrade so I can pick one I can live with.

Are you saying you never considered a GFX camera? I have XT5 and I might get 50s 2 once it’s on cash back offer.

Me who bought the XH2S today. Finding this video and regretting nothing