Originally Posted by Doug b

I'm with you Bob. That Leica is actually the same as the Panasonic, but with a Leica red dot, and slightly different firmware. The latter of course, can make a significant difference.

It sure aint the body, or the sensor which makes a good photograph. (depending on the time of the shot). In fact, I reckon that on a good mental day, a good photographer can get better results out of a $5.99 throw away film camera than someone who has no experience or imagination and a $6k body with a $4K lens.

Of course, having such tools at your disposal should at least count towards justification and having a job that pays you to do the type of demanding work that is required and expected of you. If one is a weekend warrior, and simply looking for bragging rights, then leave them be. Seems there are too many people like that on the types of forums you're talking about Bob. They're immediately transparent, and usually have no choice but to flock in similar groups. They sure won't get the attention of real photographers or those who take their work seriously.

As for myself, I simply love to shoot and am still exploring what there is for me out there. I don't do it for money anymore (I'll take the occasional job) and really only care about learning and enjoying my time while I'm here. If there's no joy in your life, what's the point?

Doug