[Looking forward to a 85 1.2]

I love the 1.2 apertures, but I am SO happy with my 50 1.2 that I am not too antsy for the 85 version. The 50 is stellar!

Caroline, you are spot on with that statement. I recently rented the 50 1.2 and fell in love. After my trip next month, one more tool will be added to the kit.

[Niches]

This is a great question.

There is no doubt that the market favors the niche. I think this is especially true on Instagram. That said, it is possible to cover a broad range of subject matter. I got into photography because it allowed me to explore all kinds of different things, not just one thing. In 2022 I shot a cookbook for National Geographic, was commissioned to shoot a series of massive 50x70 black and white silver gelatin prints of Maine Seascapes, and shot 10 short films and 4 photo essays on Health Equity in America on a year-long project that was underwritten by a Fortune 20 company. Honestly, these projects had almost nothing to do with one another.... and that's the way I like it. Keeps things interesting.

I'm not sure where this leaves you but I would say, initially you would be well served to have a niche but I would encourage you to maintain a broad set of visual interests.

Like Akira, I too am in a similar situation. Your response has been rather helpful. Thanks for the insight.