Mercy of the Lens

So when I initially put this outfit together, I thought the overall layered effect with be more uh, slimming ... but I guess somehow the mirror told me that I looked fine (?) and then the camera apparently disagreed with it.

Speaking of cameras, I upgraded last year from my point-and-shoot camera to a Panasonic DMC-FZ150. For a gal who has always used Canon products, it was actually a pretty easy transition to the Panasonic - the FZ150 had some nifty features like a flip-back screen and was remote clicker-compatible, both very nice conveniences for a gal who takes her own pics. Plus  the zoom on this fixed-lens camera is wicked good, seriously (I've taken it to air shows and had no problems zooming in on aircraft doing demos overhead or taxiing all the way across the airfield).

 

However, it's not the best portrait camera. Granted I don't have any sites set on Best Fashion Blogger of the Year or anything, but I do wish I could get some of the color richness and depth from a better camera. And yes, I do now regret that when I was looking last year, I nixed the idea of a DSLR because it seemed complicated (though I am totally that person who will buy something electronic and never ever read the manual. Ever. Eyes crossing even now at the thought) and wanted to save some dollars.

I haven't made my mind up yet if I wanted to make the investment yet, but I am currently considering a Canon T3i with a 50mm lens. Seems like it would not only give me better options for my outfit pics, but it'll let me take richer pictures overall. Though it does make me ask - for a lackluster photog like myself, would a better camera automatically equal better pics?

I'd love to hear some advice from you ladies. Do any of you currently use a T3, and if so, what do you think? Or what kind of camera and lens do you currently use for your blog pics and are you happy with it? 

Blazer: Cartonnier via Anthropologie brief meeting (reviewed here - sim, striped, deal, luxe)
Top: Limited button detailed (worn here - sim, sim, pricey)
Jeans: J.Crew hipslung (worn here - sim, sim)
Necklace: C.Wonder square stone (worn here - sim, sim, cute bows)
Bracelets: J.Crew wildflower (sim), C.Wonder pave initial, Sage K and Co via Etsy (sim)
Bag: Pour La Victoire roma (worn here - sim, sim, pricey)
Shoes: Michael Kors hamilton (worn here - sim, sim, peep, luxe)