Wanting More, but Don’t Need It – Throwback 2022

“Start where you are. Use what you have. Do what you can.” – Arthur Ashe

Back in 2020, I purchased my current camera, a Nikon D7500 off of eBay. It was a used camera I bought off someone who was selling off all of their equipment. I knew it was a good deal at the time, I just didn’t know how good. This summer I decided to start researching into getting a new camera. I knew what my budget was, and I started to look around. I was comparing different cameras, mainly focused on Nikons with an F-type lens mount because I could use all of my current lenses. As I was looking, the price of a new D7500 was more than I paid before. I know inflation has made prices higher in the last year, but currently a new D7500 is 4 times what I paid for it. I started to realize that the deal I got on my camera in 2020 was going to be hard to top. While I wanted a new camera, I realized the one I have exactly what I need.

I did end up getting some upgrades for my current camera this year. In the end, I decided to upgrade what I have. Here are some of the accessories I bought that enhanced my photography.

• K&F Concept 52mm Variable ND Filter ND2-ND400: This is what I used to capture long exposure photos during the day. This is a great lens, and the price isn’t too bad.
• Mini-Tripod: I rarely bring my full-size tripod with me because it is heavy. This tripod fits right inside my mini-camera bag that I wear while riding my bike, and while I am on longer hikes. This is the tripod I use most often while taking long exposure photos of various bodies of water.
• GoPro Hero 10: I did end up buying this video camera this year. I was looking for a new underwater camera because we are going on a cruise on spring break, and this is the one most people recommended. It’s small, light-weight, and can do more than just take action videos.

I took these photos last summer while hiking at South Mountain State Park in North Carolina. This is a beautiful park, filled with wonderful trails, flowing steams, and breath-taking waterfalls. This is a great place to hike and enjoy nature for the day.