How Big is Your Gun?Many photographers take their photography very seriously. And often rightly so. Photography can be an art form, a passion, an avocation, and a career. But for the vast majority of camera buyers it's about having fun – recording personal and family memories.

The perception exists that a serious camera is needed to take good photographs, which is why we see so many tourists with DSLRs. Yet we know that they'll never make more than 5X7" prints or post their shots to a web sharing site. That's fine of course, but my experience is that many amateurs burden themselves unnecessarily with bulky and expensive cameras when something smaller and lighter will do.

And what about pros and serious amateurs – those who are most likely the readers of this site? Do we always need to carry our big guns? Do we even want to? Is there an alternative that can make casual shooting fun again?

Late Blossoms – Toronto, April 2010Sony HX5 @ ISO 125

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