Do I really need a semi-pro dSLR??

HoppyUK said:

Didn't mean to question anyone's manhood

Basic ergonomics is a science, not subjective. We all have fingers and thumbs.

Do hobbyists need pro level kit? That's not the question - it's what you shoot, the situation and results you're after that defines need.

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Obviously I disagree.

If this was a clear and unequivocal science we could construct a truth table and it would rule supremely and all cameras would comply and be identical. Obviously this isn't possible and it isn't the case. There's a science to it but it includes a level of art and preference and priority and compromise too.

The guy who came to buy my Sigma 35mm last week had only the use of one arm. Ergonomics are of major importance to him. he uses a monopod while shooting, always. He is more comfortable with lighter cam bodies for obvious reasons. Outside of extremes like that, we all may have hands and fingers, but we're not all built the same. I'm a big enough guy, but I have small-ish hands. I like a good grip, but not overly bulky. I find phones slippery to use for pics, but was comfortable with the D800. Where i would find a D4/5 too big and uncomfortable. in fact that's the biggest thing I'll miss about the D800, how comfortable it is. Even above the image quality. But I have used smaller cameras like the X100s, and it really is just a matter of adapting.

I worked my way up the Canon gear ladder as a hobbyist but last year I felt I wasn't really using the gear to it's potential, so I downsized to the Canon EOS M3 with the 3 additional M lenses and sold my 60D and associated lenses and recouped most of my money.
I now have all the features of a DSLR (when the viewfinder is attached) but in a much smaller package, and very happy with it.

I am definatley looking forwards to the G7, worked out I have lost 40-50% weight of my camera kit. Also managed to get a smaller Giottos tripod at a bargain price from MPB a while back, which is about a kilo lighter than my Manfrotto 190.

Weight isn't the only pro I feel the csc stuff is less intimidating size wise so more likely to take it out and use it than leave it at home.