Lee’s beloved Kyoceras were among the victims of the ravages of time. “I’ve had 15 copies pass through hands. About 11 of them were dead on arrival and three died within a year. That means I only have one copy left now. Basically, it is a camera only for special occasions, because I never know when it will die.”
These photographers have learned that sometimes it’s better to move on from a potential time bomb, especially if the equipment is still in demand. O’Keefe uses the Epson R-D1 as an example. This digital distance meter from printer manufacturer Epson, with the upper gauges made by Epson’s Seiko, originally sold as a Leica alternative, but now carries a price tag as high as the Leica. “I actually sold mine a year and a half ago,” she said. I love it, it’s so beautiful. But the point for me is that I can see that this thing is definitely going to die, probably in the next five years.” many years ago. So I sold that one, but it was a great experience taking pictures. Because what other digital camera has a lever to actually roll the shutter?”
#NoBadCamera
For a recent influx of people, the digital camera community appears to be adjusting well. Sofia Lee says the growing popularity of digital cameras is an opportunity to meet new collaborators in a field where it has previously been difficult to connect with like-minded people. “I’m so happy that more people are interested in this field, because when I first started in it, I was considered completely crazy,” she said.
Despite the definition of digital cameras morphing to include more types of cameras, Lee seems to be accepting of all comers. “I’m pretty lenient in allowing people to explore what they think is right,” Lee said. While not every camera is “right” for every photographer, many of them agree on one thing: reclaiming used gear is a win for the planet and a way to against the constant changes in consumer technology.
“It’s interesting to look at what is considered outdated,” Lee said. “From a carbon standpoint, the biggest footprint is at the point of production, which means every piece of technology has untapped potential.” O’Keefe agrees: “I like it from an environmental perspective. Do we really need to reduce waste?” [by releasing] There’s a new camera every few months?”
For James Warner, part of the appeal is using lower-cost equipment that more people can afford. And with a lower cost of entry, it’s easier to reach a larger community of creators. “With some clubs, you won’t get invited if you don’t have nice things,” he said. “But they felt welcome and it seemed like they could participate in photography at a reasonable cost.”
O’Keefe even coined the hashtag #NoBadCameras. She believes that all digital cameras have their own characteristics and that if a curious photographer just takes the time to learn about the device, it can yield good results. “Don’t take it personally,” she said. “Just pick something up, shoot it and have fun.”
