ltcarizona

For the benefit of those who have years of experience be it professional, instructor, serious enthusiast, or even beginner I strongly advise that those posting requesting information/opinion on what to buy the quality of their photographs provide the following information. Many times I find that information/opinion provided is not true or accurate. Hence it affects the decision being made by the person who has the question. And I find it is usually something that has something as simple as knowing the basics of cameras, lenses, or photography. Let those who have the experience really be able to help or share with those that do not. So I am recommending that people who post add the following info if they want a good answer.
1. Determine what you can afford. Too often it is apparent that not everyone can afford a Nikon D850/D4 or whatever.
2. What is the main interest(s) of your photography? This determines the type of camera as well as the lenses.
3. If someone does not know the basics as explained earlier so let it be known. This is not to knock anyone, but it will help those who don't know become informed, better photographers so they don't waste their money. I had to learn this lesson the hard way during my initial years of photography and later working with, as a pro, and teaching in my 40 years.
Lastly any pro or experienced enthusiast will tell you that the camera and lens is not the most important factor in photography - it really is the individual photographer. You can have the most expensive and one of the best cameras in the world and still turn our poor pictures!

Thank You, others are invited to provide their input.

mrussell

Where is the thumbs-up icon?

ltcarizona

Cute and thanks!

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

When you use "Quote Reply" you will see a "(Show Smiles)" link below the edit box. Click on that and you will find the thumbs up icon.

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

Adding what equipment you currently have is also helpful in getting a useful answer. Also, since the requests often have to do with "making my photographs better" a few words about why you are dissatisfied with your current situation would help.

SalvageDiver Loc: Huntington Beach CA

CHG_CANON Loc: the Windy City

I just want what the cool kids have, that should be enough info ...

DaveO Loc: Northeast CT

G Brown Loc: Sunny Bognor Regis West Sussex UK

I can't get my head around why, you ask a beginner what they want to photograph when they want to buy a camera. Surely all cameras can photograph everything....(yes you will want to add some kit).Beginners generally haven't any idea what they 'want' to photograph....they just think that they want to try it. When they do list their preferences it usually encompasses everything from 'flowers to children, landscapes fireworks' etc - in other words everything and anything.
So many people ask this of beginners - like it is an option such as buying a diesel, electric or petrol car. Having owned but a few cameras - do any have a pop up screen saying ' This scene is unavailable'????

JPL

I agree with you, this would make things a lot easier. At the same time this is meaningless because people are not going to search for this instruction before posting their questions. Maybe if admin would make instructions of this kind pop up when new people start posting then it might be of help.

Bill_de Loc: US

I don't disagree with you. But if you had been here a while longer you would realize the same message has been repeated over and over again. You are basically singing to the choir. The folks who ask questions without giving information are those that don't typically read threads other than their own. Otherwise they would know better.

Good observation on your part!

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Haydon

Just remember the most frequently advocated opinion is a reflection of what the person owns. It's difficult without some form of bias including professional reviews nowadays.

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

Oddly, I don't know anyone who did not have any idea what they wanted to photograph when they started to want a more serious kit. Very few people seem to wake up one day and say "Hey, I have never done any photography at all, think I'll just shell out a grand or so and see what gives." Nope, most I have encountered started with a P&S or a cell phone, found they liked it and wanted to do more. At that point asking them what they like or want to shoot is a very sensible question.

Oh, and most on this site seem to be able to answer the question once they are asked.

BebuLamar

Respectfully disagree!

dsmeltz Loc: Philadelphia

It would only be respectful, if you actually explained your position. That is how discussions and respect work. So, you disagree because.....