Why I'm Still Using My Sony a5000 and a6000 — And Why You Might Be Too

Why I'm Still Using My Sony a5000 and a6000 — And Why You Might Be Too

Let me start with this: my Sony a5000 and a6000 are still working just fine. They've been through rain, snow, and more than a few sketchy alleyways on photo walks. The lenses are scratched, the grips are shiny from wear, and the menus feel like home. And yet, every camera club meeting I go to, someone asks, "Bob, when are you going to upgrade?"

My answer? Maybe never. Especially now.

The New Camera Hype vs. Real-World Use

Yes, the newest full-frame mirror less monsters are impressive. The auto focus can track a squirrel doing back flips while you're sipping coffee. But for street photography, travel, and daily use, my trusty a5000 and a6000 still deliver. I know them. I know how to push their JPEGs, how to work around the ISO noise, how to squeeze every ounce of drama out of a flat sky.

More importantly — they’re light, discreet, and easy to carry. Try pulling out a $4,000 camera with a white telephoto lens in Kensington Market. You’ll feel more like a surveillance agent than a street shooter.

Tariffs and the Price Wall

Now here's the twist. In case you haven’t been watching the news, camera prices are going way up. With new tariffs on imported electronics — especially anything with advanced image sensors — the latest models are suddenly even more out of reach. That $2,800 upgrade you were eyeing last year? It's now $3,400 before tax.

People in the camera clubs are starting to grumble. They want the new toys, but now they’re facing a reality check: the old gear is going to have to last a lot longer.

Embrace the Old

So here I am, wandering Toronto with my decade-old cameras, experimenting with film simulations, using adapted manual lenses, and printing my photos with a Canon Selphy CP1200. While others are stuck comparing specs online, I'm out shooting.

I say let the gear heads chase specs. If you’ve got a Sony a5000, a6000, or any older mirror less camera — keep using it. Learn it inside out. Push its limits. Post your work. The images still matter more than the megapixels.

And hey, in a few years, we might all be retro cool again.

Stay sharp,

Bob