Invest in Camera or Lens...

[acastlpephotos]

So I have been photographing for some time now. I really would like to start doing this as a professional. Currently I have lined up some volunteer work coming up soon and was thinking of investing in either a new camera (Canon 6D w/ 24-105 F4L kit lens) or invest in a new lens itself (Canon 24-70 F2.8L). I’m aiming to do weddings and engagement shots in the future, I already have 2 free engagement sessions lined up this summer and a possible wedding assistant. I also have a concert lined up next month and since I have some extra cash to invest in I would like to know your input on what would be my wise option.

Current gear:
Canon 60D
Tamron 17-50mm VC (looking to sell)
Canon 70-200 F2.8L
Canon Speedlite 430

some sample of work done recently:

Tony Castle's photosets on Flickr

thanks.

 

[texkam]

Your work suffers from poor lighting and poor post processing choices. I'd work on that first. Consider investing in some lighting gear, including: softboxes, reflectors, and triggers. Also consider a good prime. Perhaps the 85mm f1.2. Careful on the free stuff, for you will quickly develope a reputation as "the cheap guy". Your work has value.

 

[Derrel]

Tony,
I looked at a bunch of your photos. My suggestion would be to keep the same camera, and spend the majority of the $1,000 on lighting equipment, like low-cost Flashpoint monolights with umbrellas, maybe a good speedlight like the 580 EX-II, some light stands, and at least 4 very large "panel" sized reflectors (similar in size to a standard door). Your camera and lenses are quite sufficient, but your work could be notched up quite a ways with access to lighting gear. Just MHO.