So I just made a list of what you might consider buying for the newbie photographer in your life for Christmas. Now I figured I would made a list of the things I’d like to get for Christmas. And unlike the other list, this one ain’t cheap.

Eh, who knows. Maybe Santa or my equally imaginary rich Uncle will see it.

*shrug*

1. Sony a7iv- Despite being first on the list, this is probably the last one I would buy. Here’s the thing. I have the Sony a7iii. It is a fantastic camera and is buy no means obsolete. I don’t really need the a7iv, despite all the massive improvements. Buuuttt…. I still want it. From what I’ve seen, it is an improvement on every level from the previous generation. I especially love that the shutter is locked down when the camera is off, preventing dust from getting on the sensor. Price $2500

2. Tamron 35-150mm f2 - f2.8- I had always thought you should stay away from those all-in-one Zooms. This would seem to be the exception. All the reviews say Tamron knocked this one out of the park. While I had been planning on getting the Tamron 70-180mm f2.8, this would be a great alternative for both travel and for weddings. Price $2000

3. Wandrd “Hexad Access” Duffel- First off, yes. That name is a mouthful. Wandrd is a camera accessory company. Their main focus is on bags. Now, anyone who knows me can tell you that I have a bag obsession. I think its something about the idea of travel that bags bring. I am constantly searching for the perfect camera bag. The Hexad Access Duffel Backpack looks about 4 steps closer than anything I’ve seen so far. Price $260

4. Sony 50mm f/1.2- I know, I know. I’ve said in the past that you shouldn’t buy a 50mm lens. And I stand buy that… butttt… Like the Tamron 35-150, this is in the running for best lens of 2021. The image quality is outstanding. One of my favorite photographers, Manny Ortiz says its his favorite lens. And plus… I want a G Master lens. This is probably the thing I need least of all of them though. Price $2000

5. Sigma 85mm f/1.4- So what’s the deal? I already have this lens, right? So the version I have is an adapted lens, meaning Sigma grafted the Sony E mount onto a previously made version of the lens. The new version is custom designed for the Sony E Mount. What this means is that it is much smaller and lighter. As much as I love my Sigma 85, I often shoot with the Viltrox 85mm f/1.8, because it is so much lighter. I’d like to get rid of both of these and get the new Sigma 85, so I can get back to shooting consistently with my favorite lens. Price $1100

So, yeah. Just 8 grand worth of gear. Not too tall an order.

…I need to get some gigs.