"I can't afford to be a photographer". Bulls**t.

I sold my £1,200 camera setup

and replaced it with a ~£100 setup instead.

"WAIT! Where's the introductory picture?"

 I'm not lying, I sold my pro-level gear for an outdated, cheap substitute. And I don't regret it, mostly[1].

 For the past year, I have been using a Canon 5D Mk2 coupled with a Tamron 24-70mm f/2.8 lens, the most versatile, standalone setup I have ever got my hands on. Crisp, sharp, punchy photos in every focal length, plenty of megapixels for post production, a nice intimidating look that shows I'm serious... but I wasn't happy with it.

 The problem with owning a large, pro DSLR setup is that you don't want to use it for any other purpose. Do you have any idea how hard it is to visit somewhere new and have to trawl a massive piece of kit round whilst simultaneously trying to enjoy your time[2]? It doesn't happen. For that reason, I stopped taking it with me. What sort of photographer decides to leave his camera at home?! This had to change.

 But that isn't the only reason to change. I have recently spoken to a few friends about starting up photography, with a few of them deciding that it's not for them, based purely on the thought that they can't afford a "good" camera[3]. These people weren't intending to be shooting wedding by the end of the month or making millions selling stock photos, it is more about kickstarting a new hobby and passion. But I have found a way to do it for less than £100.

 Meet my new companion; the Canon 20D. This camera was bought used and refurbished from a trade seller on eBay, bundled with a battery and charger, for £44. The lens is a 'nifty-fifty' YONGNUO 50mm f1.8, bought brand new on Amazon for £48. So to recap, a refurbished, good quality body and a brand new lens for £92. The remaining £8 bought me an SD card!

 Now if you spend £50 on a camera, you will get £50 worth of camera, generally speaking, but I'm not sure how much of that is true here. The 20D features the same sturdy build that Canon DSLRs come with as standard, with that iconic rubber grip and port cover. Pro DSLR users would feel right at home thanks to the dial + wheel configuration with the addition of that mini screen on the top. With the ability to shoot RAW photos, you can expect to do a good deal of post processing with ease.

 It's worth noting now that the 20D is APS-C, not full frame, and is only 8MP[4], so the quality will not match up to the higher-level DSLRs, however, it is very unlikely that you will need any more if photography is just a hobby or passion. Hell, 8MP will even allow you to do a good set of prints, including small canvases, without any noticeable quality issues.

 So far, I have saved myself alot of money and what have I lost? I can live with a few less megapixels and no full frame. In fact, I'm happy to be back with my APS-C sensor, because that means I can use the large selection of EF-S lenses that full frame miss out on[5]! Not to mention this setup is lighter, so more comfortable to use, whilst also being so cheap, you need not care about a knock here and there.

 But don't just take my word for it. In one day with my dearly-beloved, I was able to capture these shots:

 So next time you hear someone say that you can't get great shots without lots of money and kit, or maybe they "can't afford to start photography", you can tell them "Bulls**t".

[1] I do miss my 24-70mm lens. I'll find a suitable replacement.

[2] I had a very difficult time trying to enjoy my time in my recent visit to Scarborough, mainly because I had decided to take both my 5D and my Lytro with me, but even other times, such as going out for a drink, I kinda like to take a camera with me to capture candid shots.

[3] My definition of a good camera is one that will suit your personal needs and see you through a long period of time. This may vary from person to person, but that's my view.

[4] For comparison, the 5D Mk2 is 21 MegaPixel.

[5] That 10-18mm f/4.5-5.6 is my favourite budget lens!