Digital Cameras, Exposed!

I find that most graphic designers (web designers included) seem to have a natural affinity for photography as a hobby. Perhaps it's the connection between technology and art. Anyhow, like most budding photographers I have done my share of research in selecting a digital (single lens reflex) camera (DSLR). In doing so, I've discovered a close correlation between the business practices of the automobile and camera industries. For example, most automobile manufacturers may only change the cosmetics of a car model for a period of three to five years along with minor feature additions--the engine and drivetrain are essentially unchanged. This is also quite true of camera manufacturers. The same basic sensor (the heart of the camera that records the digital image) that powered the 6 megapixel DSLR four years ago is still being used in todays 6 DSLR models. For example, the 6meg sensor for the current Nikon D40 model is the same used in the four year old Nikon D100. While there have been minor improvements in the image quality of .jpg images, if you shoot raw (taking the digital "negative" and creating the final .jpg version yourself") the images will look quite similar. For the camera buyer, it means that the need to upgrade is largely marketing driven.

This is true with all camera makers. The same sensor in the four year old Pentax *IstD model also powers the current K100D. The Canon 300D of four year vintage uses the same sensor stuffed with more pixels for the upgraded 350D and 400D models.

Knowing this, I buy digital cameras like I buy a car. Purchase last year's model and avoid paying for costly depreciation. Like cars, cameras start losing their value the moment they leave the showroom. And most of that value is lost in the first year after a new model comes out. Buy last years model and save some big bucks!

I'll share some additional observation in future posts!