Upgrading lenses

Lenses can be expensive... Since I got my camera, I had just shot with its kit lens. It did its job well and taught me a lot about framing, distance, and working within limits. But recently, I upgraded to a zoom lens (70 - 300mm) - a gift from my mum. It was hers but she graciously gave it to me to use for my Masters course, the wonderful woman she is! It has changed the way I approach photography in ways I didn't fully expect.

The most obvious difference is flexibility. With the zoom, I don't feel the same pressure to physically move into every composition, which when you're photographing surfers it can be a little difficult to change where you are without getting in the water... I can stay back, observe longer, and let things unfold in front of me. This has been especially useful when photographing people moving through the landscape, where stepping closer isn't always possible. The extra reach gives me space to observe rather than interrupt - leading to a much more natural image.

Slas surfer, photograph, Canon 2000D.

What surprised me most wasn't the technical change, but the shift in how I slow down. Instead of constantly adjusting position, I find myself waiting more. Zooming becomes a way of refining attention rather than replacing movement. I am still walking, still responding to landscape, but with more options and less distraction from enjoying the presence on the walks as well.

My first test with it newly attached to my camera body was a little walk along the sea front from my Uni house in Aberystwyth. I found myself excited by how far i could zoom and the things I was able to capture, like boats out at sea and light reflecting off of buildings in the distance and the sun setting on the horizon...

Sunset in Aber, Photograph, Canon 2000D.

Knowing that this lens was a gift adds another layer t0 it. It feels personal, carrying it reminds me that this practice is supported, encouraged, and shared - even when I am out walking by myself. That sense of connection matters more than sharpness or specs ever could to me. I am not interested in chasing perfect equipment as it is always changing, always upgrading - it's how you use your gear not what gear you have that makes the difference. New gear is exciting and makes life easier, but working with what you've got is important too. It opens up new ways of working.

Sunset Rowers, Photograph, Canon 2000D.

Upgrading lenses hasn't changed what I photograph, but it has changed how I approach it. I find myself paying more attention to distance, timing, and restraint. That feels like a meaningful shift.