So during my time in Coffs Harbour, I’ve had the chance to try out my recently inherited Canon EOS 30D. The camera originally belonged to one of my best mates, Stewart Orme. Unfortunately, at just 23, Stewart recently passed away after a motorcycle accident. What a blessing it is to have the opportunity to capture a few photographs using his old camera.

Now, I’ve always subscribed to the fact that a great photograph isn’t defined by the equipment that a photographer uses and I’ve told countless photography friends that the camera they have with them will always be the best camera to capture whatever they’re looking at. The kicker was that every time I said this, I’d be holding a Canon 5D II.

I’ve also made a point that regardless of the camera body, the glass is more important. I’ve always said: “Buy a cheap body and a high quality lens and you’ll get more detailed photos”. It was hard trying to sell this concept while I worked at Ted’s Camera Store in Canberra as a sales assistant.

These three photos were all taken using a Canon EF 24-105 L IS lens.

I’ll add that tripods also make a huge difference in landscape photography. I own a Manfrotto 055 CXPro3 and Manfrotto 303PLUS Panoramic head. Quite an investment but I’d spend less on the body and more on my tripod any day!

Well, here’s a twist to the story, now, many of those same mates are shooting Canon 7D’s and here I am poking around with my ‘old school’ 30D.

I’d like to think that my photography is just as good on the 30D as it was with my 5D II. I’ll let you be the judge!

6 Responses

  1. nicely done and I’ve always agreed on the galss. However I have a cheap tripod…what makes a good tripod good?

    1. Hey Stirlo.

      The sole purpose of your tripod is to keep your camera stable (Well… I’ve used mine as a tent pole too). Many of the cheaper tripods I’ve seen and used have failed at this. Especially with heavier cameras. With the amount of walking I do, I’ve opted for a carbon fiber one. Because it’s light, it’s not as stable as a steel one but that’s the sacrifice I’ve made for portability.

      The heavier and more rigid (think plastic vs steel) your tripod is, the better it’s going to do it’s job of stablising your camera.

  2. ok thanks. apart from very heavy lens which I don’t actually own myself mine is probably fine for me then! I was begnning to wonder if I was missing something!

  3. They’re stunning photos!! I had a great lens that recently died… The cost of fixing it was just a few dollars cheaper than buying a new twin lens kit… it means a better camera but not better lenses… When I sold my old camera it meant I got more money back… But I MISS that old lens! It made SUCH a difference to my photos. So I agree – it’s all about the lens! :)

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