User:Bidgee/Camera grant application
Introduction
In late 2011 I had applied for the what was then known as the "large equipment grant" for the Canon 60D with the twin lens pack, close to six years on the shutter actuations count (also known as Shutter cycles) is over 140,000 and on Wikimedia Commons, I have uploaded over 4,700 photographs (with many more yet to be processed and uploaded, which in itself is a slow process) taken using the camera partly paid for by the grant.
While the camera still functions (somewhat), a broken cable has made it rather limited in use, for example I cannot adjust the aperture, change settings, delete files and also have no working buffer (temporary memory for photographs that have been taken but not yet saved on the memory card). To change limited settings (such as aperture), it has to be done using a computer/laptop with the Canon EOS software and this isn't practical with hiking or travelling long distances.
Grant proposal
I would like to apply for the large equipment grant once again to replace (though the 60D will be used, along side the new camera) the camera and possibly the lenses (depending on cost, as I would like to get a 70D). There is also the possibility in going full frame by going down the 5D route (60D and 70D are crop sensor) depending on the cost of the body and the lenses (as crop sensor lenses do not work with full frame cameras).
The new camera would allow me to continue with my photography work on Wikimedia Commons
Proposed spend
While it may make better sense to go for the 5D, cost limitations (even with $1000 grant) is off putting but will not rule it out yet, however I would most likely go for the 70D (or 80D if the 70D becomes unavailable).
Canon 70D
- (RRP) $999.95 (with 18-55 mm EF-S lens)
Pros
- Cheaper than the newer model 80D and full framed Canons
- Both crop and full frame lenses can be used
- Same functions as the 60D (e.g. swivel back screen, video recording), with some slight improvements
Cons
- Cropped sensor, requires lower mm lens or further distance to fit the subject
- Returned stock but still has two year Canon warranty
- Comes with newer 18-55mm EF-S lens
- Limited stock
- Touch back screen
Canon 5D Mk III
- (RRP) $3,799.95 (with 24-105mm lens)
Pros
- Able to fit subjects better
- Same as the 60D (with some features missing)
- HD recording
Cons
- Costly, even when second hand
- Purchase of costly (new or second hand) full framed lenses (under 24mm and over 105mm), as cropped sensor lenses can't be used
- No swivel back screen