I am a regular here. I have owned and enjoyed both Nikon and Canon systems. I find much of the angry hand wringing and somewhat attacking or threatening posts here somewhat surprising. Canon, like Nikon, is a technology company that is very interested in meeting the needs of photographers. That said, it compete in very varied and complex markets with competitors in many industries (think phones, tablets...) making strides to capture a piece of the picture taking puzzle. The offerings of each of the leaders are mind boggling even if we have no interest in most of their products. Someone must as they keep on being refreshed....
I am also frustrated at times with the selection (it is not perfect for my particular needs and budget) but I can't help but be amazed with what my current Canon equipment can do. I have progressed more in the last 6 years of digital work than in the prior 30 of 35mm and dark room work. We live in a great age of tech progress and Canon has delivered beyond what I could ever have imagined...at least that is my POV.
Are all their products priced fairly. No. Are some of their decisions on not providing hoods and other basics with the cameras and lenses sometimes annoying? Yes. Does it seem they are been cheap and predatory at times. Yup, but other companies then spring up with options. Should some basic capabilities be built into the cameras saving us the money and hassle of carrying another item? Yes. All in all, am I happy with the Canon system? Absolutely, and the feedback I get on my pictures now reinforce it on a regular basis.
I think giving Canon calm and non-threatening feedback (unlike: I am selling all my Canon gear! Goodbye Canon! Hello NIKON! etc.) is something useful for all of us. I have learned a great deal here from experts as to what the future might and should hold as far as potential innovations and features Canon or Nikon could offer. There are many here who better understand both the technical and artistic challenges to guide us and the manufactures to the next great camera and/or lens. Those who post here with positive feedback I'm sure will be more effective in making change. The Japanese with their team and consensus focused culture probably could benefit from what it is written here especially if it is in form that can accept comfortably.
I am now in the market for the replacement of the 7D but I am not hoping to buy any of the very top bodies (EOS-1D X and 5d III) being offered/discussed as I feel I am both not good enough to properly exploit them and I would like to leave some cash aside to travel to the places I plan to photograph. I still like to see what is coming out and imagine a little piece of that technology will move within reach for me in the near future.
