In January 2012, I bought my first DSLR, the Canon 7D — it was a huge upgrade from my point and shoot that I’ve been rocking since high school. Growing up, my family had always been the cam-corder type, recording school plays, birthdays and random moments. On Holidays, we’d sit around and watch our precious memories of that year. And that’s when you felt it… the warm fuzzy feeling deep inside your core, threatening to bring tears to your eyes. It was an overwhelming feeling being surrounded by the people you love, remembering the moments you’d shared. I loved it. And till this day, I still do. That’s when it dawned on me. I want to capture people’s precious moments. I want to be able to bring feelings of joy, happiness and love. I want to capture the little things, even after it’s been forgotten.

That’s where the 7D comes in, for starting out, it was perfect for me. The 18 Megapixels, 19 AF-point system the sometime annoying 1.6x crop and the 12,800 ISO capabilities that I didn’t dare push any higher than 2,500 (I am not a fan of grainy photos), performed wonderfully until I felt that I used it to its full capacity. I started my business with this camera, so it holds a very special place in my heart. Yes, it’s was tad bit expensive as a starter camera, but when Jorge told me if I’m going to invest in something, go all the way. Do the research and then make the decision if it is worth, and that’s what I did. For the longest time, the 7D served it’s purpose. Now, this little guy is my second body — my backup.

Now, for the big guy, the Canon Mark 5D II. I’m not going to lie… I lusted over him for some time. His strong and sturdy build with a full frame ability and high ISOs reaching up to 25,600, had me at the sound of his shutter. I first had the chance to test the 5D II when Isabel let me borrow hers while working at one of her weddings. After using him for for 10 hours, I was swooned, en-captivated, convinced. I wanted to get one. Not only did it produced sharp images, the but high ISOs was perfect for the low lite churches. And the full frame? Ugh, sweet as pie!

I purchased my Mark 5D II about a month ago. I didn’t want to write about it until I had him all to myself to inspect from head to toe. Since I had some time with him, I can now say, it was one of the best investments for my business. The only down fall is the 9-point focusing system — it’s less than what I had previously with the 7D, however I am managing well with my focus and recompose; just takes a while to get use to.

If you’re asking why didn’t I just purchased the Mark 5D III? Well, here is my response… Have you seen how much it is!?!? Granted, I’m sure he is like Fabio of all cameras, but currently, it’s not in my best interest. Nor do I wish to go into debt trying to have the latest gear. It’s not the camera that makes the photographer — the person behind the camera. I upgraded because I felt I used the 7D to it’s full potential. Now, it’s time to challenge myself and bring my work to another level… Oh, Mark II, I adore you.