Jonathan Keenan wrote:- >How much pro stuff is shot on MF/5x4 digital backs simply to convince >the client it's worth all that money and to polish the photographers >ego?
A very seductive argument that willl appeal to all owners of 35mm bodied digital cameras. Back in the real world however ...... it's all a matter of sophistication , expectation and the harsh realities of high end advertising. If one has clients that can't tell the difference between files from a prosumer camera and those from the likes of Sinar , Lightphase , Imacon etc, then it's more than likely that those clients have the sort of budgets that reflect this myopia. However if one is fortunate enough to have clients who can't tell the difference but still have huge budgets , then surely it's still down to the truly professional photographer to give them the best quality available when the budget allows ? If, as a photographer ,one can't tell the difference betwen the files from a prosumer camera and a high end back , then I would seriously doubt that photographers analytical faculties when it comes to supplying digital images. When it comes to the question of ego , then we are in danger of also getting embroiled in camera envy...." it's not the size that matters , it's what you do with it ". Now ( when it comes to cameras that is :-) ) , this is an argument that can hold some sway. I've always been an advocate of imagery first , technology second . Some of my own favourite images were shot on a 10x8 camera with a piece of cardboard with a small slot in it instead of a lens ( 45 minute exposure ). But , and its a big but , the act remains that some camera systems are just not up to the tasks demanded of them by some commissions , and one would be seriously deluded to think otherwise. BTW much as I'm sure us smudgers love to give our brilliantly , some might say blindingly glossy egos another buffing , personally I'm still saving for the boat , so a few dull patches are to be expected . And when it comes to convincing clients it's worth all the money , I'm afraid it's no longer the Eighties. Reality rules. Bottom line is that buying into high end systems is a commercial decision. If you already have the client list and the technical savvy , and the energy to keep the systems working , then it can be profitable . Just investing the dosh into such systems isn't going to make you either wealthy or a better smudger overnight. And if you can't tell the difference between prosumer and high end , it's very likely to make you a whole load poorer. Regards , Bob Marchant. =============================================================== GO TO http://www.prodig.org for ~ GUIDELINES ~ un/SUBSCRIBING ~ ITEMS for SALE
