Returning to photography after a long break

Discussion in 'Beginner Questions' started by Ian Carroll, May 28, 2024.

  1. Ian Carroll

    Ian Carroll New Member

    Joined:
    May 5, 2023
    Messages:
    9
    Location:
    Medway Kent
    Equipment:
    Canon EOS 20D, Canon EOS 70D, BG-E14 battery grip, Canon 10-18, Canon 18-200, Sigma 18-125, Sigma 70-300, 580EX Speedlite, Slik 88 tripod
    Hi everyone,

    I'm returning to photography after a long spell away from using my camera. With this renewed interest in photography I've purchased a new desktop pc (current one is 13+ years old and running Elements 5) which will run final choice of editing software you think would be best for a keen amateur. So far I'm considering Photoshop Elements 2024 and Premier Elements 2024, but would consider other software at around the same price point, especially if ease of use was a major factor.

    The next upgrade, after the pc, is a new camera to replace my EOS 70D, or maybe run alongside the new one. Budget wise would put the EOS R7 and the EOS R8 on my potential purchase list. I currently own the following lenses if this would aid making a choice on the new camera easier. Canon EFS 10-18mm IS, Canon EFS 18-200mm IS, Sigma 18-125mm 3.5-5.6 and Sigma 70-300mm F4.5-5.6. I am considering a longer lens 400mm - 600mm for nature and motor sport.

    There you have it, I'm looking for photo/video editing software and potentially the R7 or the R8. I look forward to your replies and advice. Thank you in advance.

    A recent photograph for the last motor show I went to. The Granada from the Sweeney TV show. IMG_1826 - Copy - Copy - Copy.JPG
     

  2. GDN

    GDN Well-Known Member

    Joined:
    Jul 22, 2018
    Messages:
    2,199
    Location:
    South Island, NZ
    Equipment:
    A little Canon stuff
    Nice image of an Escort.

    But with buying gear. Just use what you have at the moment, and upgrade one thing at a time instead of going out and doing a bulk purchase. Try your gear, and see where you think that you are lacking with. Keep your 70D and use it. Keep your lenses and use them. See which ones you like, and see which ones you don't like so much. Review your images, and consider if wider lens, longer lens, faster lens, etc would be of benefit to you.

    Start to relearn your skills, and enjoy yourself.

    Gary
     
  3. Craig Sherriff

    Craig Sherriff Well-Known Member Site Supporter

    Joined:
    Apr 25, 2017
    Messages:
    3,241
    Location:
    Tasmania, Australia
    Equipment:
    60D,350D 1dmark3, T70, AV1, lenses ranging from 28mm to 600 mm, canonet Junior, Canonet QL 25, Mamiya C3 and 3 lens sets,Mamiya 645 pro TL and 3 lenses.Mamiya universal press camera and 4 lenses, Mamiya RB67 Pro S and 5 lenses, Pentax MG and various lenses, Toyoview 4 * 5 inch large format camera,Calimat C1 8*10 inch ultra large format camera.
    As Gary said , keep the 70D, I have the 60D with the battery grip and have no issues with it.
     
  4. Imagecreator

    Imagecreator New Member

    Joined:
    May 10, 2024
    Messages:
    7
    Location:
    Northern California
    Equipment:
    Canon 5D4, with Five Canon L lenses
    PS Elements is a good one for the beginner.
    As for equipment. Use what you got. No reason to jump on the mirrorless band wagon just yet. You have fine equipment. No one can tell from your photos what equipment you use.
     

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