When was the last time you changed your oil? If you are like the average car driver, your answer should be around every three thousand miles or six months, whichever comes first. Now think about the last time you updated the firmware on your camera. Cameras, like cars, need a tune up just about every few months or so, to make sure they are running in top notch gear.
Each camera manufacturer updates their firmware every few months to fix some bugs or minor problems. Firmware has been in use since the 1970’s. Firmware essentially changes the software of an electronic device without changing any of it's hardware. For instance, the Canon 5d Mark II did not have 24fps video capability for the first 18 months the camera was out. Canon then came out with a firmware update, which allowed the camera to be able to shoot 24fps and the ability to manually change the gain of the mic for sound recording. For more information click "More"
With the newer market of memory cards, many manufacturers are updating their firmware to work with these new cards. Another time when manufacturers update their firmware is when they come out with a new lens.
While updating your firmware has many benefits, you must be sure to update it correctly to avoid damaging your camera. For instance, when updating the firmware of your camera follow all of the instructions provided by the manufacturer, make sure you have a full battery, and do not touch any button on the camera while the camera is updating. If these steps are not followed you risk the chance of something going wrong, in which case you might have to send the camera back to it's manufacturer.
We are in a new era when it comes to electronics and technology. It is amazing to me how many people have to constantly upgrade from one new device to another, when there is usually minimal gain. Since I work in a camera store, many people ask me the same question; when is a new Sony, Nikon, or Canon camera coming out? While I understand the allure of having the most up to date camera, remember that you can also update your firmware to have new and up to date features with a camera you already own.
For firmware updates, check out the manufacturer's website and look for downloads and instructions.