It’s “Gary” Fong, not “Larry”

Thanks, Stephen. Note to self… remember your basic journalism rules.

That’s hilarious that I did that. You’re absolutely right. I’ve been reading about cinematographer, LARRY Fong this week, and wrote Larry instead of Gary on this post. Thanks for the correction!

Larry Fong, for those who don’t know is the AMAZING cinematographer who shot the movie 300, and has been working on the upcoming superdigital IMAX movie, Watchmen. His work blows me away. He also graduated from the same film program I did at Art Center College of Design. For more on Larry Fong, here’s a nice little interview with him:
http://asianconnections.tv/2007/03/11/larry-fong-cinematographer-of-300/

Gary Fong, is a very successful wedding photographer and entrepreneur who markets a bunch of nifty photography lighting tools such as the Light Sphere. For more about his products, click here:
http://store.garyfonginc.com/gafoge.html

So my question is… how much does one spend on all of this fun gear if one wants to upgrade from her Cannon Powershot Elph 1000?

I know the cost can seem daunting, Jennifer, but if you’re willing to be patient, a slow build-up of gear is the best way to go. I started with my Nikon DSLR and the 18-70mm kit lens. Then I added a used 70-210mm lens and then a used 50mm lens. The rest of the goodies came gradually.

I’m still building my kit. Next on my list are a new tripod, a lightstand, umbrella and attachment clamp, and eventually a second flash with syncro device.

There are also deals to be had, if you don’t feel compelled to buy the newest, shiniest, fanciest gear. Prices are dropping on cameras like the D70s, the D200, and some other models to make room for the new D300 and upcoming D700. EBay and sites like http://www.keh.com are great for finding deals on used equipment. If you look at the whole shebang, it’ll be too big an expense all at once, but if you pace yourself, inside two years, you could have all the goodies you need.

Good luck!