Every time I get into a conversation with a fellow keen photographer, it tends to have drastic consequences for me. Last week was no exception. At lunch break I had a lengthy chat with Tim about the sort of problems we face when we design websites for clients and they can't provide you with decent photos. It is a true challenge, and even thought we are wizards when it comes to visuals, the results aren't up to scratch. Bad photography cannot be "hidden" in good design. Photos are what catches your attention when you arrive at a website, and it's frustrating when people can't understand that. Websites aside, we're both keen to do more one-off gigs - I'd like to focus on weddings, children, promotion photos for artists, athletes etc, all of which are excellent opportunities to let creativity flow and really make unique and special imagery. And after speaking with Tim, I realised that the only thing holding me back is the equipment. In 2005 I purchased my first digital SLR after soaking a couple of digi compact ones in drinks in bars. I wen't for the Canon 350d which was quite decent (and costly) and the time. I've added to my kit a flash, a Canon 1.4 50mm, a Canon fisheye 10-22mm and a Tamron 70-300mm, plus bags, straps, flash cards, remote, gorillapod etc. All in all a good set of equipment, but what isn't up to pro standard is now the 350d camera housing. It has certainly served its purpose, but now, over 3 years later, the time has come to move away from the amateur 350d and onto a semi pro one. Big question is, which one?

Here's a comparison between the two affordable candidates, which I found over at Photolectic

Technology wise there's no question, the 40D is superior. Actually, I only had one concern - size and weight. Last saturday I popped round Jessops in the metro centre to try and hold the two candidates, and the difference it size and weight is remarkable. However, the sales girl said she upgraded to a 40d a while back and she has not yet regretted it yet, and she uses it for wedding photography almost every weekend. So 40d it is. I'll just have to get some exercise so that I'll be able to carry my little baby... (And, my mum has agreed to cash out for my 350d)

On a side note, can I just mention that I've picked my favourite in this year's X Factor, and I want Laura to win!