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CAPTURED - Weekly Newsletter

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When to Upgrade Your Equipment

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Hey Reader,

Every photo in this email was taken on my Fujifilm X100F, a camera from 2017.

It’s not the newest, the fastest, or the best. But it still takes photos I’m proud of.

But sometimes, it’s easy to feel like your gear is holding you back.

We see new camera launches every year.

Higher megapixels, faster autofocus, better video specs.

It’s tempting to think, “If I had that camera, my photos would be better.”

But most of the time, it’s not true.

Older cameras can still produce amazing results.

And until your gear limits what you want to shoot, there’s no need to upgrade.

That said, there are moments where investing in better gear does make sense.

Let's dive in!

When Your Camera is Holding You Back

If your current gear stops you from getting the photos you want, that’s the clearest sign it’s time to upgrade.

For example, maybe you’ve started shooting more sports and need faster autofocus to keep up with the action.

Or maybe you’re travelling more and want a camera that can shoot both high-quality photos and smooth B-roll video.

When your gear is slowing you down, not your skills, that’s when an upgrade will feel worth it.

For Professional Growth

If you’re charging for your work, investing in better gear becomes less of a “nice-to-have” and more of a “must-have.”

In 2025, clients expect photographers to be able to offer both photo and video.

Being able to deliver both makes you more valuable and more versatile.

This is why I shoot with Sony setups for pro shoots.

The autofocus is reliable, the video quality is excellent, the lens selection is huge, and overall, the system just works when I need it to.

Better gear helps you produce better work, which leads to more referrals, repeat clients and more opportunities.

And the investment isn’t only about image quality.

The reliability of current cameras makes professional jobs smoother.

Things like longer battery life, better ergonomics and improved connectivity can have a big impact on your workflow when you’re juggling shoots, edits and client communication.

Video Has Improved Massively

This ties into the point above.

If you’re mostly a photo shooter, you can get away with using an older camera.

But for hybrid shooters or anyone wanting to create video content, 2017 cameras simply can’t compete.

Video specs today: stabilisation, frame rates or colour profiles are miles ahead.

So, if you want to film high-quality video for clients or for your own content, an upgrade makes a huge difference.

How I'll Upgrade in the Future

Right now, I’m eyeing the Fujifilm X-E5 for when I want a small, travel-friendly camera that can handle both photo and video well.

I’m also interested in adding more Sony video cameras to my kit (FX3...).

They’re far ahead when it comes to video, and a lot of the work I’m being asked to do requires that level of performance.

Outside of cameras, I’ve been upgrading my home workspace too.

I am checking out a new monitor, recently bought a proper desk chair and I’m slowly decking out my home studio here in Barcelona.

These changes might not seem as exciting as a new camera, but they make a big difference.

Having a more comfortable setup helps with editing long sessions, colour grading and even just staying productive when running a business from home.

The truth is, upgrading isn’t just about taking better photos... It’s about building a setup that supports every part of the creative process...

So, when should you upgrade?

When your gear (or your setup) can’t keep up with what you want to create.

Until then, there’s a lot you can make with what you already have.

Catch you next week,

Matty 📷 🚀

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