When it comes to photography, years ago I got a Cannon EOS 800D, the same camera I used in high school. I had, during my time in high school, became a published artist for my photography. I was featured in galleries and my art was sold at charity auctions. I really enjoyed the heavy feeling of a camera, and as I had not had a mobile phone, it was just fun to be able to take a bunch of pictures.
Before lockdown, I spent a lot of time with my camera, but as someone who was always interested in macro-photography, I liked taking close up shots that didn’t quite vibe with the lens I had. I didn’t really look into other lenses, and over time decided my phone’s camera was good enough, retiring my physical camera to my side table. I still took a lot of photos and enjoyed taking them, but they were on my phone! Then, last month, I went off to a gaming event and bumped back into a friend of mine who knows cameras.
As a parent who also works full time, I feel like I never had the time to research and figure out exactly what would be good for my camera, but with my friend on board, it was much easier. The Cannon camera that I have is one that can take a beating, though a bit older, is perfectly fine for photography now-a-days. Apparently, it’s known as a workhorse of a camera, which is fine by me as I am not the most delicate with my technology. As I really like close up photography, it was recommended that I grab a 50mm prime lens. These lenses don’t allow you to zoom in, but they to take really good photos and are better for macro-shots, once you learn about their distance and focus. I also went with a f1.8 lens, which blurs the background automatically.
It turns out, there are loads of websites that allow you to purchase used lenses, but I went with MPB on my friend’s recomendation, which has detailed photographs, clear and easy to read descriptions, and everything is checked before you get it, so you won’t be scammed in anyway. This does mean I purchased a used lens, but the condition it came in was immaculate, so it didn’t matter much at all to me. I am looking into picking up a telephoto lens, which will allow me to get more detailed pictures of birds and such, without having to get really close to them.
With these three lenses (the one that came with my camera, and the two that I am purchasing used) I will have a full camera bag of lenses to switch between, depending on what I want to photograph! Since I started using this new lens to take pictures of food, my family and flowers – I really noticed how much better it is than my phone. It’s fantastic to get back into a hobby, especially after retiring it for so long. Is this post primarily an excuse to show off my recent photos? Maybe, but I am extremely happy with my lenses as well!
I have to check out MPB. I need to upgrade my photography game, and it sounds like a great company.
I have a few lenses, but they’ve succumbed to the ravages of time. I need to upgrade, so I’m glad I found this!
I need to upgrade my photography game. I need a dedicated camera with some lenses for better shots. I’ll give MPB a look.
I’m really happy for you. Rediscovering a hobby is priceless and allows temporary escape from the hustle and bustle of work life and motherhood. Good for you!
I enjoyed your rediscovery of passion for photography through exploring new lenses, particularly the 50mm prime lens for macro-shots. Your journey back into the world of photography, guided by a friend’s recommendation and your experience with MPB, is both inspiring and relatable, especially for myself putting aside hobbies due to life’s demands. It’s refreshing to read about your excitement and satisfaction in returning to your beloved hobby, capturing moments with newfound clarity and depth.
Your photos are beautiful. I love trying new lenses too and have found some good camera, equipment, and lenses on Facebook marketplace.
I totally get how finding time for hobbies can be a challenge. Your experience with MPB sounds awesome – it’s great to hear about reliable sources for used gear.
What a relatable journey! It’s easy to settle into using our phone cameras, but there’s something special about the artistry of macro-photography. It’s great to hear how you rekindled your passion for photography after reconnecting with your friend. Can’t wait to hear more about your experiences with different lenses and how they’ve transformed your perspective! 📸✨
I used to what to learn photography but couldn’t afford the different lenses. Your photos are really good. Love the cat one
I was advised to get myself an additional lens for my camera to help me with some of the images I take for work. It’s great that you can get second hand lenses as that must help you make a great saving and be able to afford a few different items.
Photography is an awesome skill to have in my opinion. Cannon is a truly wonderful camera brand!
I am a photographer, and your post made so much sense. I have to upgrade some of my lenses. So, I would try out MPB.