I've been a rental tech for the last 4 years, got started a couple years before that. Back then the Red One was still newish, there were rumors of a new sensor from RED and a competing camera from Arri. Everyone was excited about the big unknown future of digital cinema and what was to come. Every step forward was seen as bold and welcomed by those who wanted to see the industry pushed forward.

Now everyone's gut reaction is pure pessimism. If it doesn't conform to their own personal opinions, you are instantly discredited in their eyes. Manufacturers like Blackmagic, who are actually taking risks and producing unconventional and different pieces of equipment are ridiculed because it doesn't have a shoulder mount and an "Arri" logo on the side.

Literally every time I've mentioned a RED might be a good tool for a job on this sub has resulted in a FLOOD of downvotes--even when it's an argument ABOUT RESOLUTION. I see this as a technician as well. People just want to hear what they want, and they will spend weeks nitpicking instead of shooting just to prove the other guy wrong. People band together and, not wanting to disagree and potentially lose work, all agree about the same stupid stuff. It's no longer about pushing the limits. It's about being appealing to fanboys and being comfortable. EVERY company has become guilty of this.

I've spent the last 2 years in Chicago trying to build a special (practical) effects business. I just opened a shop a few weeks ago! Trying to transition to a section of the industry that actually wants to move forward, with CNC, 3D printing, new materials and electronics, and more. I want some of that old excitement back!