why are camera owners different to other consumers

Topically enough I will have to argue and say that in most enthusiast forums such as this, you will find bickering between owners of certain brands/models - if anything a lot of car owners can be even worse than the camera guys a lot of the time.

You have to also remember your audience here - typically people who have invested in a system, and seem to need some validation that they haven't spent thousands of dollars on the wrong brand. There is also something to be said for the fact that the internet seems to bring out the worst in many when they can say whatever they want safe behind a wall of anonymity, with this forum not being a particularly great example of comradeship.

I think it is worth noting that the camera club I am a member of in real exhibits none of this sentiment, and any brand, format or style is happily accepted.

If it makes a difference, my chosen preferences include the Canon for DSLR, Panasonic m4/3 for a compact alternative, Nikon for old manual film cameras plus a whole range of odd stand alone bodies and cameras...

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