Planned Obsolesce Doesn't Work for Photography

This is The Digital Story Podcast #975, Nov. 26, 2024. Today's theme is "Planned Obsolesce Doesn't Work for Photography." I'm Derrick Story.

Opening Monologue

If you're lucky, your smartphone is viable for 4 years. Your laptop... not much longer than that. Planned obsolesce is a real problem in the world of technology. It's expensive and it creates tons of hazardous waste that's harmful for our planet. But one area in particular seems immune to this diabolical scheme despite manufacturers' efforts: photography. I'll explain why, and its benefits to you, in today's TDS Photography Podcast. I hope you enjoy the show.

Digital Photography Podcast 975

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Today's feature story talking points:

In digital photography, software is extending the life of hardware. AI upsampling and noise reduction are great examples.

In addition to my OM-1, I'm packing a 2017 Pentax KP and a 2015 Olympus TG-4 for Costa Rica. Why? Because they are perfect for the subject and conditions.

Never underestimate the value of a great lens on an older camera. Case in point, my PENTAX-D FA 70-210mm f/4 ED SDM WR zoom lens. Even on the older Pentax body, the images are amazingly sharp and colorful.

All of our cameras have their strengths and weaknesses. Both Pentax and Olympus have amazing weather resistance.

We can still get batteries for older cameras. So if your existing cell is underperforming, you can replace it.

Photography is also a creative pursuit. So we can go all the way back to film cameras and uncoated lenses to create looks that are artistic and unique. And yes, relevant today.

Have you ever pulled out an old camera, put on your favorite lens, then after an hour thought to yourself, "Now I remember why I loved this camera so much!" That's not going to happen with a 10-year-old smartphone.

I understand the need for manufacturers to have us regularly upgrade our cameras. We can be more choosy about how we do that thanks to the longevity of our existing gear. And by doing so, we're saving money and reducing electronic waste that is so very harmful to the planet.

Another angle to this is buying used gear, at a reduced price, instead of always going to something new.

Photography is one area where we can say no to the endless treadmill of upgrades. The power is in our hands as to when we buy and what we choose to invest in.

Canon and Amazon Win Lawsuit Against Counterfeit Batteries and Chargers

You can read the entire article on PetaPixel.com.

Radiant Photo 2 Arrives, Promising Next-Generation Photo Editing

You can read the entire article on FStopperes.com.

Virtual Camera Club News

TDS Photography Workshops! Reserve your spot now. We have an exciting slate of online and in-person events. If you have any questions, use the Nimble Photographer Contact Form. I will get back to you ASAP.

The Nimble Photographer Newsletter is now publishing every Thursday. Readers will enjoy a variety of content spanning from short photo essays, to commentary on weekly events, to reviews of the latest and coolest photo gear.

Inner Circle Members: A big thanks to those who support our podcast and our efforts! We are having a blast at our new Inner Circle hangout, the private group I've set up at DerrickStoryOnline. We'd love it if you join us. You can become an Inner Circle Member by signing up at our Patreon site. You will automatically be added to the new hangout.

Great Photography Articles on Live View - If you check out our publication and appreciate what you see, be sure to follow us and clap for those authors. You can find us at medium.com/live-view.

If you're interested in writing for Live View, drop me a line at dstory@gmail.com.

The New Donation Kit for Carefree Shipping of Found Film Cameras - If you've discovered a film camera that's no longer being used, our new Donation Kit makes it easy to pack and ship. Just visit the Contact Form on thenimblephotographer.com, click the box next to Donating a Film Camera, and let me know what you have. In your note, be sure to include your shipping address.

Affiliate Links - The links to some products in this podcast contain an affiliate code that credits The Digital Story for any purchases made from B&H Photo and Amazon via that click-through. Depending on the purchase, we may receive some financial compensation.

Red River Paper - And finally, be sure to visit our friends at Red River Paper for all of your inkjet supply needs.

See you next week!

You can share your thoughts at the TDS Facebook page, where I'll post this story for discussion.