Ghostly. August, 2009Panasonic GH1 with 14-140mm, @ ISO 100Photographic equipment, for reasons which will be explored in a moment, is in somewhat of a different category than most other purchases. For this reason both the price and value of things find themselves subject to a great deal of discussion in online forums.

The reason why camera gear is different than say, cars, boats, homes, watches, or golf clubs, is because while these and similar items are both practical as well as lifestyle purchases, photo equipment can also be associated with a person's profession, avocation, hobby, or art. As such it isn't simply a matter of being able toafforda high-end item, and therefore buying it, as with anS Class Mercedes, or aJaeger Le Cultrewatch. The rich can, if they wish. The less rich can't. It's as simple as that.

But aLeica S2or aNikon D3xisn't just an expensive consumer item. It can be the means by which some people earn their livelihood, a tool for creating their art, or simpl...