We asked about how you make decisions about equipment. Not surprisingly as a group you do your homework before buying. More than 50% of you are looking at 4 of the 9 categories here. Magazines provide your greatest source of information followed closely by Vivid Light Photography and other online photo sites. About half of you read spec sheets and get opinions from other photographers. Camera companies have long felt that an endorsement by a pro photographer was valuable but only 31% of you indicated that you look at what the pros are using.

We think these numbers are encouraging. It means that you're spending the time to find the right gear for your needs.

Finally, and again not surprisingly, we found that you are an influential group. 86% of you indicated that other photographers seek out your advice when they are buying equipment.