If you're a hobbyist. How much do you spend on photography? [Archive]

doctorA

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 09:39

gasrocks

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 09:50

Sounds like a question for the general photography section.

bohdank

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 09:51

Look at my, and others, links to their gear.

Butch Cassidy

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 09:55

look at my gear list also, it does not show,bags,cf cards and all of the other stuff,but you get the idea and I am fixing to add either a 7D or 1Dmkiii and a 300 2.8L is

JeffreyG

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 09:58

The answer to this question is going to have a lot more to do with a person's total income than with their passion or interest in the hobby.

Also worth a note, even people with a lot of expensive camera gear probably have less money sunk than for a lot of other popular hobbies. Look at what motorcycles, boats, golf gear (plus greens fees) etc. all cost and photography is not really all that expensive comparably.

I make some income with photography but it is certainly not my 'real' job. All my gear would probably be worth something like $11,000 on the used market right now.

irishman

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:00

I prefer the word "amateur" to hobbyist ("a person who engages in a study, sport, or other activity for pleasure rather than for financial benefit or professional reasons.") I've spent in the neighborhood of $15,000 on gear over the recent years, and have made a little back in jobs but nowhere near that. But---I'm a middle aged man with no other diversions. My friends drive fancy cars and have boats or golf or wave runners---all which cost them much more than my equipment does me.

J-Blake

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:01

I find myself selling off my old hobbies in support of this one, and though I'm still a Noob, I'm trying to become a respectable Noob. A large factor in the equation of how much spent is how long you've been into it.

irishman

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:02

JeffreyG ^^^^^^You beat me to the punch!

Moooney

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:06

i've collected what is listed below, and have bought and sold five other lenses in the past fourteen months since taking this up as a hobby. i can't recommend buying lenses used here on the forums enough - you can essentially rent the lens for as long as you want for free because generally they don't depreciate once already used.

I've had one paying gig shooting architectural shots of retail space for my town, and they've said they are going to get me to do more stuff, but it is looking like these opportunities are going to be few and far between.

timnosenzo

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:10

Read this thread, should give you a pretty good idea.

http://photography-on-the.net/forum/showthread.php?t=138747

TooManyShots

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:11

Oh, I have fewer gears than you have...that really saves a lot of money...

500L F4 IS.
Carl Zeiss 21mm ZE.
1d MarkIII.
EF 100mm F2.
135L.
Gitzo carbon fiber monopod.
Jubo Design gimbal head.

Total...$15,000. :) Every time I go birding I carry $10,000 worth of equipment with me. Don't tell anyone though.

I just spend what I need and I don't need to cover every focal length.

montanawild

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:19

I spent over $40,000 in the last two years. Actually $45,000 with the new mkIV that arrived a couple weeks ago. So far I have sold close to $1,000 worth of shoots/photos.

AlanU

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:24

Photography is rewarding to me. Priceless pics of my 2 little kiddies is worth every cent on camera gear.

HeleneD

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:27

Photography is rewarding to me. Priceless pics of my 2 little kiddies is worth every cent on camera gear.

I couldn't have said it better myself.

Lowner

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:53

Up to a couple of weeks ago I'd bought nothing other than paper and inkjet cartridges for maybe 2 years. I've just ruined it by buying a 16-35 f/2.8L. I also going to have a serious look at the 1Ds mark IV when (if) it materialises some time this year. Hopefully that will be enough spending for the next 3 or 4 years, then it will probably be computer related, not photo gear directly.

So far as selling work, I'm just slightly behind Montanawild. So I'd rapidly starve if I tried to earn a living from my images.

neil_r

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:58

Another take on this would be that non photographers like Lawyers, Doctors, CEOs and the like have way more money than the average photographer to spend on their kit. :-)

zero85ZEN

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 10:59

As much as my wife let's me get away with. :D

Tapeman

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:07

It' been over two years since I purchased any photo gear. (Although I received a Better Beamer for Christmas.) I may consider a 1D MKIV toward the end of the year if the price comes down a bit.

I carry $20k in insurance for my gear which is close to replacement cost.

TooManyShots

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:07

Another take on this would be that non photographers like Lawyers, Doctors, CEOs and the like have way more money than the average photographer to spend on their kit. :-)

True....if you have the money. If you don't, you can save up.....

PrimeGlass

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:13

Photography is rewarding to me. Priceless pics of my 2 little kiddies is worth every cent on camera gear.

Same thought here

aaxxii

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:37

A few thousand.

I'm also a computer enthusiast, albeit I definately prefer Photography (although I'm still a noob at this point), since many years later lens degrade little in value, while for computer parts the value can degrade as much as 40% in just a little more than a year.

Chairman7w

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:56

QFT

Also worth a note, even people with a lot of expensive camera gear probably have less money sunk than for a lot of other popular hobbies. Look at what motorcycles, boats, golf gear (plus greens fees) etc. all cost and photography is not really all that expensive comparably.

Chairman7w

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 11:56

LOL You tell her how much it is???

As much as my wife let's me get away with. :D

heatherwb

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:05

I love this hobby enough that I'm willing to spend the extra money on better quality gear (see my sig), but I know the limits of my budget. Most of my gear purchases these days are for things I've given a lot of thought to buying before actually buying. I say this after doing lots of buying and selling in an effort to figure out what I really want--I got my first DSLR in 10/07.

My best advice for anybody who's wondering how much money they should spend on gear is to buy the best you can afford. While you can produce similar results from both cheap and expensive gear, better quality gear makes the job easier, both in using it and editing pics afterwords. :)

Since switching from Pentax last summer, I've been in the process of building my Canon kit and I'm happy to say that I'm almost done. :) All that I lack is a 1.4x TC, which I should be picking up within a couple of months. I do eventually want to go FF, but what I have will work just fine until I get the money saved up to do so. :)

HTH,
Heather :)

zero85ZEN

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:06

LOL You tell her how much it is???

Heck NO! But she has quite a high IQ and the down side of that fact is that she quite easily figured out how to look up the costs of photo equipment on the Web. :(

gasrocks

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:07

One of my private students was a surgeon who only did retinas. Owned his own pratice. He had every piece of equipment they sold. Had no idea how to take a pix when not in auto everything though. I admit it did bother me a bit to see some of the equipment that I would love to try out in the hands of someone who didn't really appreciate it much.

tkbslc

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:09

As much as my wife let's me get away with. :D

I'm actually the opposite. I spend as little as I can get away with and still get pictures I am proud of.

I don't know, this question seems a little odd. I don't know if the OP is trying to brag about how much he has spent, or justify it. Either way, its your money and your hobby so spend whatever you want. If it feels like you have spent way too much, you probably have.

photomom2one

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:12

I have spent about $1500 in equipment in the last year and a half. That is nothing in comparison to what my dear hubby has spent on trucks, cars, tools, and other stuff, so I have quit feeling guilty about it!

Besides, like it was mentioned, the pics I have gotten of my son over that period of time are worth so much more! And I have never taken him to a studio to have portraits done.

Another thing - photography gives me such peace and joy, it's really cheaper than other forms of therapy! LOL!

ScottsGT

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:20

CameraAddict

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:22

I look at old pictures taken starting from the day when a 1 MP camera was $900 until nowadays, when you can spend an unlimited amount on GREAT equipment, and I have never once regretted spending what I've spent on memories. My only wish is that my original digicam pictures were as good of quality as the ones I get now.

I haven't spent nearly as much as some of you on the current equipment. Just upgraded to DSLR at Christmas and have a 50D, a 50mm f/1.8, a 100mm f/2.8 macro, a EF-S 10-22mm, a 70-300mm, a 28-135mm, so about $2500-3000. I'm sure the stash is going to grow and so is the enjoyment of it.

Hey, this is a positive hobby. It's not like you're spending the money on crack! ;-)...although sometimes it feels maybe just as addictive, LOL.

aaxxii

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:32

tkbslc

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 12:39

My aunt was like this- she always shot on Auto with her L lens when she worked as a Tourism photographer :confused:

Did her pictures suck or something?

sue.t

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 13:06

You forgot to add in the computer equipment you likely own to complement digital photography.

Even so ...

It's cheaper than being a private pilot with your own aircraft.
Or, owning and wrenching on vintage cars.
Or, camping with your own RV.
Even cheaper than being a rower with your own racing shell and equipment.

It's all relative, isn't it?

LTZ470

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 13:13

I feel good after reading about others having 10k in equipment...I thought I was overboard at 3k...I still can't get over how well the 7D and L Lens perform...I am really astounded...well worth every penny...

themadman

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 13:13

Well, I am a hobby photographer and sinec I started photography I've had to downsize my other hobbies. I haven;t gotten any airsoft or paintball stuff since. I also haven't really bought or played many computer/video games, card, games, etc. I still build computers... but thats cause I really wanted a 64bit machine to do photo editing on.

Everything in my gear list I obviously bought =)

BiPolarBear

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 13:35

With the gear I've acquired over the past few years, dollar per image, I probably have the most expensive cat portraits in existence.
But they like them, so it's all good! :D
Greg

racketman

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 13:47

I've never failed to pay off my credit card so as far as i'm concerned I have not gone overboard enjoying a hobby that gets me out and about to places I would otherwise not see.
I know a chap locally who has 1D bodies and every L lens Canon makes. He earns far more than most pro photographers so its all relative.

TweakMDS

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 14:47

Canon 70-200 f4L IS
Canon 18-200 IS
Canon 70-300 USM IS

Bit of overlap?
The 18-200 I can get, since it's more of a walkaround / scout lens maybe.
Do you actually use the 70-300 when you have the 70-200 F4 IS?

Apart from that, I spent quit a lot on this stuff, and nowhere near done. Still need a telezoom or a long prime, thinking about 70-200 F4 IS and 300 F4 IS. I've also been lusting after a tokina 50-135 for a long time, but still looking for a good deal on a used one...

Kramer80

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 17:20

stephen_g

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 17:32

I'm only 17, and broke and unemployed and all but I've got:

1D Classic
50 f/1.8 II
Tamron 17-35 f/2.8-4
3x Alien Bees CSRB's
Alien Bees CST
540EZ
430EZ
SB-24
Giotto's Tripod (it's a legit one, not one of those cheapo $10 thangs)
Couple other tripods which are just cheapo's, for lightstands
Lowepro Minitrekker

Canonopathy

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 17:47

I have several hobbies. One is gun collecting and shooting. In guns, I have well over $10K, but I cannot take them out and start shooting in a crowd, at a kids soccer game, in the city streets, at parks, etc.. Photography lets me have a hobby I can use when ever I WANT to! I really enjoy the returns I get when I start processing on the iMac or sharing the photos.
Another hobby I have is my '66 Mustang GT Fastback I've been restoring. I have as much in that as I do my camera gear, but it's still a pile of parts in the garage! It's a hobby of frustration.
Just check out my sig line.....

Very good point. For me it's a great way to get away from my hectic daily routine. Although I have quite a bit of money in gear I doubt most of it will stick around. If you buy smart you will likely get the initial purchase price back if sold within a reasonable amount of time. Most of my glass would easily sell within a day for the amount I paid. Realistically, I would do just fine with my 1D III, 16-35, 24-70, 70-200 and maybe one prime like the 35L. Really, I have way too much glass! :lol:

err

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:08

I am also an amateur and never made a cent off my photographies. See my sig for the list of gears that i have. I believe i have spent close to $10k for everything including accessories.

I started about 5 years ago with a rebel and 17-40L. I have since upgraded to 30D, 5D and recently 5DII. Yes i know that photography could be an expensive hobby especially if you have been infected with L-lust :) but the way i see it is that the only expenditure that i really have is the fast depreciating value of the camera bodies. I have justified purchasing expensive and high end L lenses because they hold their value. Of course i am not recommending people to start going to their local camera store and start their spending spree... I happen to be a patient buyer and i only pull the trigger when there are super good deal on the body or lenses. Waiting for canon rebate, bing, coupons, or anything that lower the price of your purchase is a must :)

i have owned multiple lenses and used them for years and sell them back in the used market. So far, i have made money on some of my lenses, barely breakeven (which is my goal) or lose not more than 10% of what i had spent. My only exception was he sigma 10-20mm that i lost about 25% on. I should have purchased canon 10-22 and maybe break even :)

so even having spent $10k on toys, i still feel this is a cheap hobby compared to most other hobby out there with high depreciation value. Getting superb photos and capturing beautiful moments along the way with this hobby is the priceless bonus!

Apart from little toys here and there (Electronics, ipod, ds, wii) i dont really have other high priced collection or hobby...i hardly have enough time to shoot with my camera!

Just my 2 cents :)

Mastamarek

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:15

I spent everything into photography. lol. I have a ****ty apartment with no heating or AC. I don't do any sports or other fun activities as they cost extra $$. But hey I do what I luv.
in the next few months I should be expecting a shipment with:
35L
50L
85L
100L
200L f2.0
7D and some other goodies.

For me its worth living in $150 rental apartment. But its extreme sometimes. No AC, heating, dishwasher, laundry or any other luxuries :D

Canonopathy

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:16

A few year back I spent $7,000 on an Optoma projector (HT is another hobby of mine). I put less than 100 movies on it and sold it a year later for $2500. That was a $4500 loss or $45 per movie watched. Photography equipment (well, Canon glass) has great resale value if you keep your gear in good condition. Bodies and non-Canon glass may be a different story though.

This is not a good hobby for addictive personalities. I'm lusting for a 200L f2 but I'm considering going frugal and picking up a 300 2.8 :lol:. I'll have to sell off a couple of lenes and a body to make myself feel better.

Panda_stunter

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:30

ive spent about 4k on mine including desktop and softwares.

im not the best but good enough to be paid.

Kiwikat

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:34

This is not a good hobby for addictive personalities. I'm lusting for a 200L f2 but I'm considering going frugal and picking up a 300 2.8 :lol:. I'll have to sell off a couple of lenes and a body to make myself feel better.

You KNOW you've lost it when you call the 300 2.8 frugal. :p

I've been at it for around 8 months now and have already accumulated around 3000 dollars in gear. I am actually quite happy with my kit now that I got my 100 macro. I'd like a better general purpose zoom, but that can wait for some other time. I think a new laptop is next on my to-buy list.

I can't wait for spring to come! Then I can learn to use all the gear I've acquired over the winter months. :oops:

Canonopathy

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 18:44

You KNOW you've lost it when you call the 300 2.8 frugal. :p

I've been at it for around 8 months now and have already accumulated around 3000 dollars in gear. I am actually quite happy with my kit now that I got my 100 macro. I'd like a better general purpose zoom, but that can wait for some other time. I think a new laptop is next on my to-buy list.
I can't wait for spring to come! Then I can learn to use all the gear I've acquired over the winter months. :oops:

I've been looking out for a new PC as well. I NEED more power for processing files in LR. I have a Dell with an i7, 12GB RAM, and a 24" IPS monitor in my cart. I doubt I'll pull the trigger unless I've had a few too many tonight. I'm gonna disconnect my router just in case. :lol::lol:

MMURAD

13th of February 2010 (Sat), 23:53

I am pretty new to this hobby, bought my first DSLR (t1i) in Nov 09. As a hobby it seems fairly inexpensive when you look at how well lenses hold their value and how frequently you can "do" this hobby. Hours of fun to dollars spent seems pretty good so far. Plus you have a record of the "fun" you had forever.

I used to ride dirt bikes, now that is an expensive sport with massive depreciation. I spent $12,000 on a new KTM and was lucky to sell it for $6,000 2 years later. And that was just the bike not counting all the gear, gas, travel time and hospital bills. And I could only do that a couple times a month at best.

I also play guitar and have 1 Les Paul that is worth twice as much as all my camera gear. Though that may actually go up in value. :) But most music equipment depreciates a lot when compared to decent camera gear.

Now I have not gotten the L prime lens bug yet, and I don't shoot sports since my kid is only 7 weeks old...so all this may change.

Trixster!

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 04:19

ceriltheblade

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 04:33

well, i will agree that one's general budget is important, as well as saving for retirement, health insurance, other daily expenses, kids.....

I bought my first DSLR last month with a single lens....and I may pick up a 50 1.8 soon so as to play with reversal rings and/or extension rings for my macro side.....

but my general plan in regards to photography is no more than 1 big purchase per year....

Of course, I don't have a very long wish list....a good macro lens, the 70-200 range lens, and a flash....
If I get really ambitious I will think about the MPE and possible flash for macro....
but I don't see myself getting into the hobby so as to need a separate room just for the gear! :)

but as I read the above responses, it just goes to show you - everything is very individual....

I am not interested in all the L's ever made, but I woud love to spend that kind of money for some courses in photography and the trips to practice!

ScottsGT

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 08:05

pingflood

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 09:19

I have to agree with the ones saying that relatively speaking photography is an inexpensive hobby. I know people who do the car thing (and I used to) and don't think twice about sinking $10k worth of 'mods' into a car, knowing they might recover less than half of that should they decide to sell the stuff. Not to mention the cost of bass boats, motorcycles, guns, yada yada.

Meanwhile, my 1Ds2 I bought a year ago for $2k would probably sell for $1800 today, my 400/5.6 I bought for $850 would sell for the same, my 300/4 IS I paid $1050 for (mint) would probably fetch $1k today... so while the cash outlay / opportunity cost is not insignificant, the overall cost of ownership is surprisingly low. :)

mouettus

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 09:19

I have to balance my photography hobby with funding climbing, caving, mountain biking and mountaineering habits! That said, I like to have decent quality gear because for me it adds to the enjoyment I get.

yesssss! I thought I was the only one thinking that. I'm thinking of buying a 7D over my Rebel XS... not that I NEED it... but I would certainly enjoy more, holding a semi-pro camera with all the bells and whistles...

Seeing the result is only a part of my enjoyment. Walking in a city, holding a cam and pointing at things has really been a blast for me so far. That's why I can skimp a bit on image quality and save some dough, thinking that for now, even my 18-55 IS can bring some good and sharp shots home!

nphsbuckeye

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 09:22

I think you'll find a correlation between ones income and the amount of gear they have. A founding CEO will have more than a manager at a restaurant.

friz

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 10:03

I think it is a great hobby,because you can spend almost any amount and your success is still a function of knowledge, ability, and dedication. A used digicam, old beater P4 PC, and GIMP can get someone rolling for very few bucks. I have often thought of putting together a used rebel setup, an old PC with GIMP loaded and ready and giving it away to someone with interest and no funds.

oaktree

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 10:34

I spend as much as I need to keep me happy. Fortunately, I have a wife whose last buy recommendation to me was , "Get the 5DmkII" :D

The last half dozen things I've bought for my hobby has been books and 2 of these are on printing. If I can get good at printing, a Epson 3880 is in the future :D:D:D

EcoRick

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 14:32

My geat list shows what I own so it's fairly easy to figure cost of hardware. I'd add another $2,500 for "stuff" like backpacks, Domke bags, printers, computer upgrades, etc.

At the end of the day, I think this is a relatively inexpensive hobby. As long as you buy quality gear, everything but the body retains it's value. I have other hobbies which are sinkholes of money. Once you're into photography, you can quit spending money and enjoy the results. The barrier to entry into photography is as little or as much as you'd like to spend. Some of the pictures that creative individuals have posted with very inexpensive gear makes me realize what a great hobby this can be for a minor investment.

spkerer

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 14:50

I've spent a fair amount on my gear. I enjoy this hobby. With my day job, I can afford to buy the gear I've bought - and I enjoy photography and using my gear as a form of relaxation and not a potential money-making opportunity. I don't have the skill or inclination to make the money I would need to buy this gear working as a photographer.

It's not really that expensive of a hobby. Talk to someone who has a boat - not a little 10-footer with a 4 HP outboard like mine, but a decent sized boat. Photography is cheap! ;-)

I'm happy I've been able to help out a friend from the fire dept who is into photography, still in high school and shoots Canon. I'm happy to let him borrow my 300 f/2.8 for some of the events he shoots. He can't afford to buy one, but appreciates what it is and takes good care of it. He probably babies it more than I do.

In general, I've wanted be in the state where my skill is the limiting factor in my photography, not my gear.

Dragos Jianu

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 14:53

Photography is not expensive at all. It's a mildly bad investment with a moderate upfront. Compared to cars, or IT, photo gear holds it's value incredibly well. Cameras are a bad investment,which is why I don't buy new bodies, but lenses are very decent. My 4 lenses added up to around 3600euro. But i can always sell them for just about as much. If that money was spent on a car or computer gear, then I could at best hope for 1/3. So, I don't consider it an expensive hobby, (granted that I buy my bodies just around the time they are replaced) , even though it's just a passion for me, I don't make money from it.

fotoworx

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 14:58

Since photography is an expensive hobby.

Yeah but is it really?

ed rader

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 15:50

travelling is a pretty expensive hobby too and the only thing you get to keep are the memories .... which i like to preserve with photography :D.

ed rader

nphsbuckeye

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 16:10

Yeah but is it really?
Perhaps. It kind of rare that it caters to all crowds: you can spend $200 on a point and shoot camera for you can spend six figures on a "do it all" kit. Therefore, it is an extremely relative definition.

Cheaper hobbies could be just running or knitting; more expensive ones could be yachting, vacationing, or car collecting.

Therefore, photography is in the middle, or its own category, of which you can spend a little or a lot.

heatherwb

14th of February 2010 (Sun), 17:18

travelling is a pretty expensive hobby too and the only thing you get to keep are the memories .... which i like to preserve with photography :D.

ed rader

Getting excellent quality vacation pics is the best souvenir for me--no need for stupid crap that clutters up my house even more than it is now. :)

With my camera gear, my ultimate goal is to get a setup that will keep me happy for many years to come. I'm happy to say that I've made a good bit of progress towards that goal already. Swap the 40D for a 5DII, the 50/1.8 for a 50/1.4 and perhaps swap the Tamron 90 for a 100/2.8 IS and I'll consider it accomplished. :D

Heather

OnTheLakeFishing

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:15

Had a teacher tell us, "shop at Goodwill, eat leftovers, save your money for good glass"

Nifkin

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:32

travelling is a pretty expensive hobby too and the only thing you get to keep are the memories .... which i like to preserve with photography :D.

ed rader

Susan Sontag in On Photography has a pretty good take on our impulse to subordinate an actual experience (e.g. a holiday) to the imperative of capturing it with a photograph, to make the experience 'tangible' in some way ;)

hsmoscout

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:49

I am running on minimal equipment. (look in sig) Cheapest lenses, cheaper flash, cheapest DSLR...you get the point. When I get enough money for a 100mm f/2.8 macro, it will be my first lens over $175

kouasupra

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:52

For a hobbist I've probably spend around 30k for all of my gears and etc. Including buildig a new computer just for photoshopping.

melz

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:57

I just started and I'm already at $4k...

themadman

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 15:58

To this day (not including my computer since I use it for other things as well) prolly around $4000-$5000 I don't really want to add it up... I might become depressed.

I just added it... $6400...

javig999

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 18:20

Started in August of 2008:

XSI -$650 with kit lens
18-55 IS - INCLUDED ABOVE
55-250 IS $260 (SOLD for $160)
50 1.8 $95
Tamron 28-75 $275 (dropped it - then gave it away)
Tamron 70-200 2.8 $650
430EX $180
Tokina 12-24 $300 or $325
Sigma 24-70 EX DG Macro 2.8 - $400
SD cards - $75 (4 x 4GB cards - 1 will no longer format, 1 my dog ate)
LaCrosse 900/Eneloops - $125 (thereabouts?)
2 x 285HV's + Cactus V2s set - $125
2 x light stands/32" shoot thru umbrellas/modeling lamps/bag - $85
Canon BG-E5 - $80
Extra LP-E5 battery (generic) - $17 shipped
DIY bounce card for 430EX - $2 (foam/velcro)
DIY gels for 285HV's - $6.09
Lowepro Fastpack 250 - $120
Canon Gadget Bag - $0 (gift from mom)
Tripod my father in law gave me - $0

LITTLE WISH LIST:
3rd V2s Rx (+ spare Tx) for my 430EX (MPEX - $37)
umbrella brackets with cold shoe mounts ($15/each on ebay)
42" reflective umbrellas ($22/ea)
6' x 9' Muslin backdrops ($35 cheapies...beats a bed sheet!)
More Eneloops ($50 for 16?)

BIG WISH LIST:
5D Classic - $1250-1350 used (5d2 is a dream)
Canon 85 1.8 or Sigma 85 1.4 - $350 / $700 respectively
ND filter(s) - $200 (67mm / 77mm)

I love this hobby but its addictive and expensive...

DarthVader

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 18:47

Lenses only $15K

Panda_stunter

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 18:50

Lenses only $15K

WOW!!!

i wish i have that much!

i only really want 100mm macro, 70-200 2.8 IS, 10-22mm UWA, 85L, 135L and 300L added to my arsenal and i will call it quits...oh and a 7D and a 5d2 as well! :lol:

ErnieT

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 19:48

I've spent all together maybe 20K or so. Sickening! Worth more than my darn car!

kidslash

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 19:53

Spent $5000 in lenses last month alone!

guntoter

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 20:14

A little over $5000. I have plans (Lord willing) for more in the near future. Maybe a 7D,

doz

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 20:27

More my wifes stuff than mine (not into it like she is). All aquired since 1 year ago. Previously had a 40d that we bought brand new, but it broke and they replaced w/ a 50d :D

Canon 50d w/ battery pack, 6 extra batteries
530EX flash
Canon 28-135
Canon 17-40 IS L
Canon 70-200 IS L f/2.8
Manfrotto Tripod w/ ballhead

monk3y

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 20:41

So far...since November 2009..around 4 months

Canon 500D kit + 1 Battery
Tamron 18-270mm VC + Kenko Zeta Filter (too expensive but no choice)
Canon 50mm f/1.8
Phottix Battery Grip
Seagate Extension 1TB
Naneu Alpha L Bag
TOTAL = almost $2100

in the process of acquiring:
190xprob / 055xprob + giottos ballhead
Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8

by far, my most expensive hobby... hehe

AmberTillman

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 21:43

I think the expensiveness of a hobby is all relative. It completely depends on your income and expenses. I am professor full time, but I have a mortgage, a family, etc. I buy things overtime. I also have other hobbies that people consider "expensive." I make and sell jewelry too. So, I have to balance both of my loves.

As long as it makes you feel good, you enjoy it, and you aren't going to lose valuable people in your life, or the necessities to survive, who cares how much you spend on a hobby. That is how I see it. I photograph my family the most and wouldn't change those memories for the world!
http://i47.photobucket.com/albums/f169/amberjaye1/IMG_7398.jpg

Edshropshire

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 21:58

Ask a golfer how much they spend on their hobby, you might be surprised how cheap photography can really be for someone. Several of my friends spend way more than I do on photography. I would say my gear list is pretty close to your list. Personally I love photography, travel and my family and find that I can combine all three to make a fun hobby. I Just need to keep it all in perspective and not let photography dictate my family pace.

Ed

Ok this has been nagging me. Since photography is an expensive hobby.
If you're not a proffessional photographer, don't make any money off of photography, what kinda gear do you have? In other terms, how much do you spend on photography hobby?

mine:

7D, 50D
Canon 70-200 f4L IS
Canon 10-22
Canon 100 f2.8 macro
Canon 18-200 IS
Canon 70-300 USM IS
Canon 50 f1.8 (nifty fifty)
Sigma 150-500 OS
Tamron 17-50 f2.8
Kenko teleplus pro 300 DG 1.4X
Tamron 2X TC
Bunch of filters, and hoods.
Wireless shutter release
Lowepro 350 aw slingshot bag
Tarmac bag
Sunpak Platinum 72" tripod/monopod

Lenses that I had but don't anymore (sold) Canon 18-55, and 28-135

How about you guys?

rklepper

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:17

Photography is actually my least expensive hobby.

rklepper

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:18

What do you teach? I am a Chemistry Prof. I get all the fun. :)

I think the expensiveness of a hobby is all relative. It completely depends on your income and expenses. I am professor full time, but I have a mortgage, a family, etc. I buy things overtime. I also have other hobbies that people consider "expensive." I make and sell jewelry too. So, I have to balance both of my loves.

As long as it makes you feel good, you enjoy it, and you aren't going to lose valuable people in your life, or the necessities to survive, who cares how much you spend on a hobby. That is how I see it. I photograph my family the most and wouldn't change those memories for the world!

Morlow

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:27

Including all accessories I have about $8k worth of gear right now. I was actually curious what number I was up to now. I pretty much drop every extra penny I have into photography since it is my only hobby and I am single.

That_Fox

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:36

I spend far too much on it. Currently I have about 17K invested in photography gear.

monk3y

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:38

I am poor...I can't even make $6,000 a year yet so this is very expensive for me

shaftmaster

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:48

Considering what I used to spend developing and printing film, I think digital photography is actually saving me money. If I took as many shots with a film camera as I do now with a DSLR, I would've gone broke.

robtography

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:53

I'm a hobbyist...look at my sig line.

Rey.dos

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 22:57

spent a lot that I don't want to think about it
and still building up...
the good thing about it is I'm getting
the money back using the gears I bought...

Mocows

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 23:00

I have to balance my photography hobby with funding climbing, caving, mountain biking and mountaineering habits! That said, I like to have decent quality gear because for me it adds to the enjoyment I get.

That's pretty dead on. I have about $5k CAD but I do also have a lot of camping/snowboarding gear. I also don't go out much, burn my money gambling, or doing unnecessary things so I figure I've earned it. :D

AWGD8

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 23:02

5D classic
Canon 17-40mm L
Sigma 85mm prime

All are just a dream for now! 5dc is close to becoming a reality. ;-)

To answer your question, I spend more time dreaming for my next gear! I don`t have much money to spend. :-)

LBI

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 23:02

I spend way too much!

kensei

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 23:33

you people throw around more money than i have ever seen :( Ive spent about 3400 on my stuff and about a thousand of that was wasted on a few bags filters, a lense i dont use anymore. I wish i could do it all over again with what i know now.

Kekumba

3rd of March 2010 (Wed), 23:50

Stuff in my sig + a bag and a tripod worth about $300 or so total. Been buying my own stuff since last July, had used whatever my school could supply me for the few years before. Haven't spent anything since Christmas, won't be spending any until probably summer. Expensive, but my only real hobby these days.

fotoworx

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 00:23

It's only money....you can't take it with you.

Maureen Souza

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 00:24

I probably spend about $2500/year on equipment.

AmberTillman

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 00:33

What do you teach? I am a Chemistry Prof. I get all the fun. :)

Communication. "me talk real good" :)

Dragos Jianu

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 02:56

Started in 2005: It's just a hobby for me

20D (still own it) - 1600e
5D (still own it) - 1600e
Sigma 18-55 f/3.5-5.6 - 100e, sold for 50 - 50e
Sigma 28-105 f/2.8-4 - 300e, sold for 150 - 150e
Canon 70-200 f/4 L- 550e, sold for 550e - 0e
10-22 SH, swapped for 17-40L for no extra charge - 400e
50 f/1.4 - 350e, sold for 275e - 75e
85 f/1.8 - 350e, sold for 300e - 50e
100 f/2.8 Macro (still own it) - 500e
35 f/1.4 L SH (still own it) - 1000e
85 f/1.2 L II (still own it) - 1700e
580EXII (still own it) - 400e
430EX (still own it) - 300e
420EX SH (still own it) - 100e
AF macro tubes - 100e
gear bag - 100e

TOTAL: 8125e / 11300$

So about 2200$/year. Cheaper then I thought actually :) Though the bulk of that cash has been spent during the last 2 years actually.

At 2000-3000$ per year it's not a hugely expensive hobby compared to others, especially when you consider the very high resale value of quality glass. Though it can add up to frightening figures over the years. But hey, at least it's a very creative hobby, so well worth it.

germinal

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 06:08

Ask a golfer how much they spend on their hobby, you might be surprised how cheap photography can really be for someone. Several of my friends spend way more than I do on photography. I would say my gear list is pretty close to your list. Personally I love photography, travel and my family and find that I can combine all three to make a fun hobby. I Just need to keep it all in perspective and not let photography dictate my family pace.

Ed

actually Golf doesn't have to be so expensive ;)

I Have been playing golf since 2005 and still do.. but not much anymore

first year/ equipment - entrance fee and other stuff: 4000 euro
the other years around 1000 euro/ year so that makes: 10.000 euro for 6 years of golf.

Photography since 2008
40D 500 euro - SOLD 450
5D 850 euro SOLD 750
5Dmk2 1600 euro
28-135 200 - SOLD 250
24-70 850 euro - SOLD 800
70-200 800 euro - SOLD 750
85L 1100 euro
580EX 300 euro - SOLD 230

TOTAL 2920.. but planning to get 35L and 17-40 so that's around 5000 euro for 2 years

ofcourse the thing is I can sell my stuff now and then I would have payed only 600 euro for 2 years photography fun

I can never get any golf money back... So in that sense photography is cheap

pinoyed

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 07:24

all hobbies are expensive...
i like to golf and i have $1500 worth of golf gear and spend over $500 a year playing on courses (not including yearly membership)
i like the moutain/road bike and i have well over $10,000 invested in 4 bikes and gear...

Invertalon

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 07:45

I have been significantly adding to my gear in the past 6 months due to my new engineering intern job. It helped me afford my new 7D, 24-105L, 12-24, new backpack, some software, and soon to be 30mm 1.4. I don't need high end stuff, no, but it just makes it more fun IMO. To relate, as a musician (drummer), you can do the same thing with a cheap, $200 ebay drumset that you can with a high end, $2500 drumset. However, the sound, finish, ease of tuning, durability, craftsmanship and enjoyment due to following reasons increase significantly. Same thing with photography. So if you can afford it, there is no reason not to upgrade (to me).

I don't get any return on my equipment (I don't get paid for anything I shoot), but other then camera bodies, the resale value is great. I can get 85% or better of a return on my lenses if I resold. It's like a savings account :D With benefits!

purelithium

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 08:22

I spend 2-3 thousand a year. I'm surprised I'm on the low end of the spectrum!

Abyssgh0st

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 08:23

So far, around $1500. It'll be $1000 more, *atleast* by the end of the month. $3500 by the end of the year.

Joe300

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 08:51

Photography all my life=== PRICELESS!!!!
From 35mm film cameras to MF Bronica SQ-Ai systems to Canon digital 300D,40D,50D, lens and gear to support it all... maybe I should of brought a house instead... Oh! Snap! I have that too! LOL
keep shooting and enjoy,
Joe

alpha_1976

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:19

my signature :)

fiebru1119

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:23

More than my wife needs to know about ;-)

jhoag

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:29

If photography is your passion, how do place a value on that? Your investment in photo gear is an indication of its priority in your life. Some go with needlessly expensive cars (in my opinion- but that may be their passion) and use really lousy cameras. Others, like myself, are more utilitarian about other aspects of life, and focus on their passion.

Life is so short, especially evident the older you get. If you are one of the lucky few who find a passion, then figure out owe to work it into your life.

luant16

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:35

photography is an expensive hobby, i feel bad when i see how much ive been spending on it, but everytime i felt it, i just think its better spend on equipments than buying some bottle in the bar - at least still got resale value (excused) :D

ScottsGT

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:38

More than my wife needs to know about ;-)

Ditto! But she does enjoy the photos I show her! She wants to start traveling when she gets established in her new career after graduation this May. I figure I have to go along to document everything. Hmmm, wifes getting a new 6 figure + income starting in June (job is already guaranteed in the medical field)...What can I add that I'm going to need for documentation ;)

Kuma

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:41

I have a modest gear list and I really don't think much about how much it's worth. I enjoy photography. I don't make any money from it. I really only have one rule. I only buy camera stuff I have cash for. Somtimes that means waiting and that's ok. I have no regrets or bills attached to my gear. Been doing it this way for 30yrs. and it's a nice way to do it if you can.

mcruzer82

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 09:43

For me it's almost like an addiction, I'm spending way too much money on this stuff when I should really be saving more. I always justify it by looking at the ridiculously expensive bags my wife buys. At least my purchases are funcional.

Trixster!

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:10

I'm a hobbiest but I think it's worth spending cash on something you enjoy doing, hence the reason I've completely changed my setup from crop to FF in the last month or so. It wasn't cheap to do so but I think it's worth it!

hannibal31

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:12

I spent about $4,000 on a 40D and 3 lenses and a few accessories. All within 2 years.

Doc Fluty

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:16

Photography is rewarding to me. Priceless pics of my 2 little kiddies is worth every cent on camera gear.

^^^exactly

I dont even have much.. 1 body, 2 lenses & and a few helper items and im over $6000

jdlloyd67

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:42

Life is so short, especially evident the older you get. If you are one of the lucky few who find a passion, then figure out owe to work it into your life.
So very true! Well said!!!

jhoag

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:51

Ditto! But she does enjoy the photos I show her! She wants to start traveling when she gets established in her new career after graduation this May. I figure I have to go along to document everything. Hmmm, wifes getting a new 6 figure + income starting in June (job is already guaranteed in the medical field)...What can I add that I'm going to need for documentation ;)

Sounds to me like a great time to invest in a really great travel bag for your gear, like the Think Tank Airport Security or Airport International.

Good luck with that ;)

JH

guntoter

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:53

Anyone who thinks photography is an expensive hobby should check into Bass Fishing. My brother has that hobby. The boat alone can be over $30,000. Then, of course, there is all the equipment, lures, gasoline, licenses.

Photography is cheap.

I guess everything is relative.

DSLR-Canonier

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:07

so far 13000 EUR (+ 2000 EUR this year planned)

rooeey

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:13

I read a sig that sais when i die please don't let my wife sell my gear for what i told her i paid for it.....This goes for me also..
I am lucky my wifes not that into cameras and so i have her under the impression that smaller cameras are actually more expensive than larger ones
as it is with so much technology...

Ditto! But she does enjoy the photos I show her! She wants to start traveling when she gets established in her new career after graduation this May. I figure I have to go along to document everything. Hmmm, wifes getting a new 6 figure + income starting in June (job is already guaranteed in the medical field)...What can I add that I'm going to need for documentation ;)

rooeey

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:15

Spot on it does seem that we have evolved to have to spend money to enjoy our selves.....Bit off topic sorry..
Anyone who thinks photography is an expensive hobby should check into Bass Fishing. My brother has that hobby. The boat alone can be over $30,000. Then, of course, there is all the equipment, lures, gasoline, licenses.

Photography is cheap.

I guess everything is relative.

zaathrus

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 16:12

Urrr.

How much? Too much...

That_Fox

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 17:50

jntuan21

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 18:06

depends on how much you can afford

Laudrup

4th of March 2010 (Thu), 19:01

There's no pockets in a shroud as the adage goes. I've spent a few quid on this hobby, but it's better than spending it on beer and dining out and getting fat.

neil_r

5th of March 2010 (Fri), 04:25

There's no pockets in a shroud as the adage goes. I've spent a few quid on this hobby, but it's better than spending it on beer and dining out and getting fat.

Unfortunately, I still managed to find the time and money for those activities as well :o

realmike15

5th of March 2010 (Fri), 06:36

Ok this has been nagging me. Since photography is an expensive hobby.
If you're not a proffessional photographer, don't make any money off of photography, what kinda gear do you have? In other terms, how much do you spend on photography hobby?

mine:

7D, 50D
Canon 70-200 f4L IS
Canon 10-22
Canon 100 f2.8 macro
Canon 18-200 IS
Canon 70-300 USM IS
Canon 50 f1.8 (nifty fifty)
Sigma 150-500 OS
Tamron 17-50 f2.8
Kenko teleplus pro 300 DG 1.4X
Tamron 2X TC
Bunch of filters, and hoods.
Wireless shutter release
Lowepro 350 aw slingshot bag
Tarmac bag
Sunpak Platinum 72" tripod/monopod

Lenses that I had but don't anymore (sold) Canon 18-55, and 28-135

How about you guys?

The amount of money I've spent on recording equipment (Pro Audio) far exceeds what I spend on camera equipment. There are much worse hobbies financially you could get yourself into. That said, if you are using the stuff you buy... and not blowing every cent you have on camera gear. Then I don't think there's anything wrong in what you're doing.

Now if you're one of those people that collects gear and never uses it, or someone who spends his entire pay check on camera gear... and your savings is 0 at the end of each month. Well, then you might have a problem.

ErnieT

5th of March 2010 (Fri), 08:59

Goto A Leica, Hasselblad, Phase One, or forum like that and ask the same question. See?.. we're not doing so bad after all! :)

caliguy

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 10:37

the way i see it, if i had all the money to buy any equipment i want, and not worry about how much it'd cost, my appreciation for photography and any equipment would be different.

Sharpmaxell

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 10:42

i look at some signature and think, "they have entirely too many lenses."

being in college doesnt allow for many hobbies and between my car and photography, there's not much i can do. with that being said, i cant wait for tax returns!

Jam.radonc

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 10:47

pixel_junkie

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 10:58

The cool thing about photography is that unlike many other hobbies, with very little effort, you can actually get paid for your photos. You don't even have to have talent (as there are plenty of examples around me to prove it). You just need to know how to market yourself well. If you do have some skills, it just gets easier. So this hobby actually offers potential for a return on your investment and can be free of charge.

pinoyed

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 11:05

linh811

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 11:51

My wife thinks I'm spending way too much on this hobby. But then you see the kids are growing fast (I have three :)) and if you don't capture it then the moment might be lost forever. To me if any I may not be spending enough but don't let my wife hears that.

This photography stuff + kids is weird. My wife gets on my case when I spend money on other hobbies (motorcycles, guns, etc..), but never says a word when I buy more camera stuff. 4 months ago we were fine with a canon g9, then 3 months ago bought everything in my sig, last week just bought a canon sd940 and panasonic ts1 because the wife wanted something 'small and cute' and something else waterproof...

dmo580

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 12:48

It's funny. I carry two snowboards in my trunk (one's my beginner board but it's a good set too, but another set w/ bindings is worth well over $700 that I just bought last season). I also carry my T1i and all my lenses in the back in a bag so I can bring my camera anywhere I go. I also my have GPS and N-Series smartphone (my backup phone) stashed.

My friend asked me "if someone breaks into your car, what are you gonna do?" I thought about it for a second and I figured that my life would be over. I'd probably just rage quit and stick to the other toys I have at home (not many toys so it'd be quite boring). Hahaha. Who knows? I just can't really dump a few thousand to rebuy everything I lost. He totally agreed (of course this comes from a guy who also went through 3 snowboards in less than 2 years... 1 was stolen... and lost an iPod touch from flying out into the snow while doing jumps with me).. so I guess when it comes down to it I'll probably buy a new set... maybe a T2i and just stick to kit lens for a LONG time if anything did happen....

gte357s

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:47

This hobby is addictive. I start off with a $478 XS with kit lens, now I have over $4000 investment on it. Luckily, the lens sort of holds it value pretty well .. so, unlike other hobby, if I decided to sell of my gear, I think I should at least get back half very conservatively.

yagit80

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:49

on my sig plus about to get my very first prime 85L II and a 35L this month!

gkarris

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:53

(stares at ceiling leaning head side-to-side...
stares at ceiling leaning head side-to-side....
shrugs shoulders..)

:D

Tyler's Mom

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 13:56

So far just for my Rebel Xti and my kit lens it was 400.00 and I just purchased a 430 exii Flash :) I just got today for 265.00. Honestly I love this hobbie and plan on making it a small side bussiness ounce I get hang of it more. So I'll just invest slowly into it. I'm not against buying used :) saves money

TheFrost

11th of March 2010 (Thu), 14:01

How many of you recognize this?
"I have spent quite some money on photography this month, but for now I'm set.... i think, maybe,... unless, maybe just a...."

pingflood

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 18:57

The infamous "I'm done" that's usually followed by the biggest gear purchasing extravaganza so far. I was "done" when I'd cut the foam in my big Pelican case to hold all my gear JUST SO, and a few hours later I was seriously debating selling everything off and going to Sony...

Jerobean

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 19:12

that's a first, canon to sony? what would spur that decision? I can see to nikon...sort of, but sony?

Lesner

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 19:14

5K and counting...

Snydremark

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 19:16

I'm nearly done with my zoom collection, then I can move on to building out my prime collection and go from there :)

I've been a cheap one so far, though, compared to most around here:

40D
Tamron 18-270mm VC super zoom
Canon 100-400mm L
Tamron 18-50mm VC
Canon 100mm f/2.8 macro
Canon 50mm f/1.8 MkII
Bogen Manfrotto 055PROBX tripod + 488RC2 ball head
Lowepro Fastpack 250
Canon camera backpack (retired)
Rocket Blower
Lens Pen
Various UV filters and polarizers

Planned zooms:
70-200mm f/2.8 MkII
Tokina 11-16mm f/2.8

pingflood

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 19:17

that's a first, canon to sony? what would spur that decision? I can see to nikon...sort of, but sony?

I like portraits and landscapes. Take a look at an A900 or A850 file sometime. :) Amazing stuff.

mzondeki

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 19:28

My wife thinks I'm spending way too much on this hobby. But then you see the kids are growing fast (I have three :)) and if you don't capture it then the moment might be lost forever. To me if any I may not be spending enough but don't let my wife hears that.

Looking at your signature, it appears your wife is RIGHT..You are close to $10K

Familiaphoto

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 21:01

I recently created a Bento DB to catalogue all my gear. Interesting exercise. Just looking at what I own now the purchase price (without taxes) comes to just under 13k. I had no idea I'd spent that much. This is not counting what I've owned and sold. Very scary.

Shhh, don't tell my wife.

Oh, I have never earned a dime from my photography, it is just for me.

Accessoire

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 21:19

lets see...the body + 50/1.4 + 50-135/2.8 + 17-50/2.8 + a macro of some sort not bought yet...and I'll need a flash soon, so...more than I initially was going to spend.

jcw122

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 21:21

I've spend around $3000. It feels like a lot, but some of the gear I've sold. It's all been very worth it, and I've been able to take lots of IM sports photos for friends and what not, or just covered other events for fun, and to give photos to friends.

Kramer80

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 21:38

I don't like selling gear to buy gear. My tab is at 15,000.00 U.S and growing. Help me, I have baaaaaaaaad GAS.

postal 1

12th of March 2010 (Fri), 22:35

Right now, only about $2000, but im ready to upgrade from xsi in the next month or two. My thinking right now is ive got 2 thousand plus what i get for xsi and 55-250 lens for either a 50d or 7d and 1 good lens. I do make some money, I bought g-11 last year with some of it. Thats a good feeling! mike

fritz1

13th of March 2010 (Sat), 00:09

I had the following with me at work.
Tamrac Expedition 7 containing
5D, 20D, 400 f5.6, 70-200 f4, 24-105 f4, 17-40 f4, Sigma 10-20, 580EXII, filters and batteries and a bunch of miscellaneous stuff, my coworker said what do you have in that bag about $2500?
When I told him that was the price of the 5D with no lens when new he looked at me like I was crazy.