SharpShooter Loc: NorCal

Yes, I too just look in the mirror. But, what do I see? I always see the guy that's standing behind me!!
Funny how that works?!

selmslie Loc: Fernandina Beach, FL, USA

Yes, some of it is right and some of it is wrong.

Seemed to me that the entire tone of his article would appeal to many UHH members since it resembles so much of what we see posted here.

Acountry330 Loc: Dothan,Ala USA

I think he is a little off his rocker in a lot of his assumptions.I spend a lot of hard earned money on my gear and will not trash it just so I will look like a pro in his eyes. Just an amateur speaking.

Pepper Loc: Planet Earth Country USA

Real pros don't give a rats patoot what the amateurs do or don't do only those who feel threatened or insecure would ridicule the amateurs. Real pros offer support and encouragement not condescending name calling. As for me I really don't care what the "pros" think of my approach to photography, I'm strictly in it for fun. BTW I take very good care of my stuff.

rook2c4 Loc: Philadelphia, PA USA

He didn't really make such statement, but rather pointed out that gear of the pro looks heavily worn, unlike gear of the amateur. Which is quite logical... the pro probably uses the gear 10 times as much, and occaisionally in rushed or less ideal situations, making unintended damages to the equipment more likely. The pro doesn't want to lose camera gear - the tools of trade - anymore than the amateur.

Darkroom317 Loc: Mishawaka, IN

A lot of it right

St3v3M Loc: 35,000 feet

Funny!

Bobgood1 Loc: Indianapolis, IN

I agree with some of what he was saying. I like to travel light whether backpacking or a photo shoot. He is right about the tripod. With modern cameras, they eliminate the need most of the time. If low light conditions might be encountered, I like a uni-pod. It is also good for defense and walking stick.

Photographer Jim Loc: Rio Vista, CA

Although I like KR's equipment reviews and respect his photographic knowledge, this article served very little purpose other than for Ken to let off some steam because some amateur may have stepped in front of him and ruined what he was sure was the shot of a lifetime. It comes across as being more anger or ego there than actual good information, IMHO. I have seen some very well known pros do exactly what he says pros don't do.

Backpacks: care to do a 10 mile hike into the Utah desert where you plan to use all of your lens with just a fanny bag? I think not. LCD magnifier (Hoodman?): like it or not, Ken, they DO help in bright conditions when you want to take a look at the histogram to check exposure, amateur or pro alike. Tripod in full daylight: if he can take a handheld shot using 15 stops of ND filter to capture cloud movement without a tripod, more power to him. And alas, those of us with hand tremors will just have to be resigned to knowing that our reliance on a tripod will forever prevent us from joining the Pro ranks.

I guess my biggest problem with the article is that if he feels right in publishing such generalized, opinionated, self-serving dribble concerning other photographers, can I still trust that his equipment reviews are, in fact, as objective as I have thought?

Wendy2 Loc: California

A bit too harsh, but that's Ken Rockwell, very opinionated.

PalePictures Loc: Traveling

I just lost respect for this guy. I shoot the street. I only need two lenses to do it. I carry around Model releases, Lens cleaning stuff Photos, an iPad. I think I might look a little funny walking around with a large purse. What better way than a backpack.

I think Ken Rockwell has spent a little to much time writing articles rather than shooting...in the real world.

Annie_Girl Loc: It's none of your business

I have this camera bag, you can borrow it if you like. :evil:

http://www.epiphaniebags.com/Red_Clover_p/cl0005red.htm

Pepper Loc: Planet Earth Country USA

Now that right there is funny! :thumbup:

Harvey Loc: Pioneer, CA

I too feel this guy is his own best friend - maybe his only one -
his renting about not needing a tripod anymore hits on ignorant of each photographers needs and preference.
Grant you I.S. , shutter & film speed have come a long way but not that far - I shoot my Lumix FZ18 without a tripod 95% of the time - but I do know when to drag out the tripod (which I always have - just like my camera) for it's intended use.
JMHO
Harvey

T2i_Lorne Loc: Surrey BC Canada

There are lousy Pros and really great amateurs. What you look like is nobody's concern. If it works for you, fill yer boots.

I still don't get why a guy like K.R. has to beg for money on his website. The suggested donation is $9.99 per month - for information that can be gotten for free from a thousand other sources. I raised 2 boys on much less than he makes and never once asked for a handout from anyone.

Just sayin' :-)