Sometimes even noise can be an artistical flair, the over-sharpened "fashion" of TikTok, RUclips Shorts and Reels make most of new photographers think that the best is only the sharpest, instead of focusing on the composition and the story of the image. That's why most Instagram/TikTok "photographers" capture the same "boring" pictures all the time. That also also using the same presets to edit all pictures that they've posted, makes everyone around take the same style and same pictures, because everybody nowadays is copying everyone around and forgetting to be original
@@simon_dentremont using auto ISO. I used to stay well clear of auto ISO, but now, with better noise reducing software (well AI software) it's really not as big a problem as it used to be. So now I use auto ISO quite a lot when I'm shooting action or in changeable conditions.
You still NEED those who does video "for every single lens that comes out" to see at least in average how it works, and what you can expect. Don't hate those people, because without them, you wouldn't see how it works and some people sacrifice a lot of time for going through really hard technical aspects and tests..
It's often best to stick with what you've got unless it's truly holding you back. A 50mm is never going to be an acceptable replacement for a 200mm lens if that's what you need, although with today's pixel rich sensors it's not as big of a deal, provided you don't need the difference in angle.
@@pentagramyt417 I agree, not everybody has a full complement of lenses. And a lot of people may benefit from a new lens, even if they already have all the ones they "need" just to shake things up a bit and bring back some of the novelty.
@@VietnameseCosmonaut Yes, although you can get interesting effects with different sensitivities. And the answer will depend a bit on whether it's slide film or negative film.
@@SmallSpoonBrigade it shouldn't surprise you. while old models are victims of the limitations of older technologies, technologies constantly change and develop. Software processing in camera also improves, so set up your Aperture, Exposure time to achieve the effect you want and don't think of ISO. Use the correct ISO and do not fall slave of old mantras.
@@jamesburne3893 funny that so many people use 'Manual' as much automatic as any of priority modes. You have effectively 4 variables (sensitivity, time, aperture, exposure compensation) and in M, A, and S modes you set 3 of them and let camera calculate remaining one. Its just a choice which one is least important or most tedious to dial for you.
@@anupew3276 I used to, but I stopped doing so in recent years as most of the time, I cared about either aperture or shutter speed and I was just using the other one that gave me the desired exposure. I mostly just use manual mode if I need to lock both of them down and allow for the auto-ISO to dial in the exposure. Then again, I started out with a Canon 10D and the ISO was a lot more limited, so I was dialing it in more manually just to get close enough with the RAW files to adjust from there.
Forced myself to shoot manual when I was starting out and I don’t regret it. I just rely on my muscle memory and took Simon’s tip to intentionally stop down to 2 in exposure and brighten it in post is a real game changer. Especially with my non-image stabilized 50mm prime lens if I need to use a faster shutter speed
Honestly my biggest lesson was (and still is) to be less critical of myself. I tend to not be happy with my photographs because I compare it to all the great ones out there. I gifted a calendar of my photographs to my family for Christmas last year and recently my Grandma told me an acquaintance of hers wouldn't believe that this wasn't a store bought calendar. Compliments like that definitely help out with feeling better about one's work :) Thank you, Simon, for all your amazing work! 🤗
Got my first dslr in my early 20s, was so afraid of posting photos on social media because there're so many great photographers out there (it's the dslr era before smartphone photography was a thing). So I gave it up for many years. Now in my mid 30s, I suddenly don't give a damn anymore. I just feel the overflowing love for everything around me, the sunset, the street, my children... I take countless photos and love them all. Wish I felt that way in my younger years...
I personally know when I've got an exceptional one because I look at it and forget that I was the one that captured it. I have never felt like that when it wasn't one of the best photos I've ever taken. Sometimes you just look at it and know it's special and don't feel the temptation to pixel peek.
You nailed it when you said we are our own worst critics! The problem with gifting the calendars is you just know the next year they'll be expecting another one! LOL
@@aztechuhs 🤔🤔🤔Have You Watched,Astrobackyard,Nico Carver@Nebula Photos,Alyn Wallace,Who Is No Longer With Us😢RIP Alyn,Dillon O’Donnell…This Person Is The Greatest In Your Mind…Not Everyones…Wow…Expand Your Viewing
Something I've found to be more important than MPs is how a camera feels in my hands. I never thought I'd care, but after a whole day of shooting on a safari and shooting for days back-to-back, the feel of a camera in my hands is now towards the top of my priority list
Absolutely. I’ve used tons of ILCs but nothing feels as good to hold as my RX10 IV. The camera is special to me and motivates me to get out and the IQ is usually fine.
I have to agree as well. The first DSLR I handled was a Canon D30 (not a typo). A 3mp, $3000 body. And it just didn’t fit me at all. I handled a Nikon D100, fell in love and had to have one. Ergonomics now a days is more important (imho) than anything else. Most all cameras do a really good job. Just don’t let my Canon-shooting friend hear me say that! 😉
Agree, ergonomics and usability of a camera body are my top priortiy when choosing a body and sometimes even a lens... some lenses just don't feel right or the controls aren't laid out right.
1:14 (1)sharpness isn't everything 2:42 (2)fuss more over lenses than cameras 3:58 (3)get out in the right light 4:54 (4)Any mode can deliver great results 7:32 (5)get out in bad weather 8:41 (6) more MP isn't always needed 10:05 bonus tip
Use OM System gear which is fully weather proofed and rain and snow won't matter. 🙂 (This is true, but I understand your concern about taking care of your gear).
In the 15 years of my photography I learned that the more genres I am interested the more expensive this hobby becomes both financially and on my time/attention but bing so curious means I can never get bored and there's always something I can and want to shoot. Don't get stuck on just one kind of subject/photography.
100% agreed. Just out of curiosity I went out one night to try night fotography. Basically I just wanted to understand how long exposure works with my camera. Best decision ever. It was like 0°C and yet I was kneeling on the pavement, trying to get the perfect shot.
Yeah I can’t understand how so many people can restrict themselves to one or two genres. I understand that when you’re marketing for money you need to get proficient, but many don’t seem to explore
More addictive to me than drugs. I have a lens selection for Canon that has been excellent. I especially love their portrait and Birding lenses. The RF28-70 f2 is my favorite. It’s worth every penny.
Dear Mr. d'Entremont, thanks a lot for liberating me from the slavery of pixel peeping, sharpness obsession, and gear upgrades. I own a modest camera (Sony a6000), a decent lens, and I make pictures that I like and that other people like. That's enough for me, in the current phase of my photography journey. Thanks, merci!
“Get the shot and process to taste the photo that you have.” As a new photographer with less than a year of experience, this has been the lesson I’m focused on. I bought the camera to capture memories of trips to South America and the Canadian Rockies. 20,000+ photos later, I have several images that really speak to me, so I plan to print and hang on the wall. Thanks, Simon, for all the tips. This channel has been a tremendous help in my photography journey!
As primarily a landscape photographer I thought that shooting from a sturdy tripod was always a necessity. I realize now that with sufficient light, higher ISO, and faster shutter speeds a tripod might not always be required. There’s an amazing sense of freedom not being tied to a tripod for every photograph.
What I've learned from watching Simon is that no matter how experienced you are…you can always learn something new! Best photography channel on RUclips..bar none. Cheers from Cape Breton MikeR.
The biggest lesson I've learned over the years as a photographer is shoot your shot, some will love it and others won't, but that shouldn't stop you from doing your style, from comp to final edits. You're in control and only you can hinder and stop your photography. Great information as always Simon, one of the best photography instructors on RUclips!
No scantily dressed models, language that won't embarrass you if family walks into the room & best of all, advice that inspires me to get out the camera.
As a beginner photographer, your videos are an absolute must to watch. Just way too many opinions on RUclips. Thank you Simon for your knowledge and honesty in all your videos
You, sir, speak straight to the heart when it comes to the essence and meaning of photography. Thank you My own lesson: After a few months as an amateur photographer, I soon realizrr that framing and composition is what matters most. Tecnhical knowledge should just help to take the photo. There are many visual components that play huge role in the content quality and story of a photo. The more I study them, the less I worry about if my camera is the right one. But I will somehow worry about the next lens I am going to buy 😊 And overall I am happy that it didn't took me years to realise the essence of framing and composition. And I thank many youtubers about that and especially you Sir.
the point about quality is by far the most important thing here, i used to be very scared of grain and rough patches in my photos, but when looking through some of the greatest photos ever taken, the majority are grainy and poor quality, but they capture a moment and story, which is all that mattered.
I am not a wildlife and nature photographer, but I appreciate your take on photography in general. Far more helpful and interesting than many other RUclipsrs with followers in the millions. As for what I have learned over a lifetime of photography . . . capturing "the moment" is most important . . . every other quality of a photo is art . . . sometimes everything falls into place . . . and the "Magic" works. Cheers to many more years or your beautiful work.
I'm 27, a full-time teacher and started sports photography last February 2024. I know I started late but I know I'll get there. Your tips and tricks really helped me. Thanks, Sir! 🙌🏻
Started late? Lol. I started at 56 and have a nice little business shooting wildlife and landscapes, self publishing calendars and books and selling greeting cards and prints from my website. Go directly for it, sonny boy. :) I wish you lots of success.
Simon, your voice booms into my living room with your tips like a close friend helping me out. I find myself watching and listening to your superb, polite, encouraging and yet so informative videos wherever I am in the world. As consumers we have no idea of what camera and what lens works best. You remind us of what an AP photographer told me 20 years ago. "The money is in the glass" Thank you and keep making the videos!
I love your comments..... I kept the AUTO ISO shooting mode "secret" for many years as many people acted like I was committing a crime against the photography gods if I did. Do what works for you since situations varies so one mode may not work in all conditions. I always get an "allergic" reaction to those who are "absolutist" about photography..... "if you don't do this you are no good" is their line, I am glad people like you helps to dismiss these concepts.
I was stunned to learn that this includes croppers. "I don't crop" is a boast? I did that for a month as a challenge and training of my skills, but not as a benchmark of status
Yep - same. I had people react in disgust to my use of AutoISO - I simply ignore them. I nearly always get the shots I want in street photography where I walk in and out of shadows all the time because the camera can react way faster than I can to change of light. I use aperture priority to get the depth I want - and leave the camera to do its job
Crisp clear message + great production quality + in-depth subject + high energy pitch = another Simon d'Entremont RUclips video I have enjoyed many of these. Thank you Simon for all you are doing for the "sport" of photography.
I started out in the 70’s; in 1980 I got a degree in applied technical photography/commercial stuff. THEN- as now, the concerns are the same: Did I nail Focus. Did I properly Expose. Did I Capture? And darkroom. I still can’t nail critical focus at times. Sometimes spray/pray is needed. I still shoot stuff and wonder wtf? I still overshoot. My WHOLE life. AND THERE IS NOTHING I MISS ABOUT FILM!! 😂
So much good advice here Simon. For a little while I was one of those who only shot in manual. On reflection, I realised I was only doing this to sound cool. Learning to shoot manual is great for understanding how the technical side of photography works. But like you said, what really matters is getting the shot, regardless of what mode you used to get it. These days if my camera can do the heavy lifting of picking the best settings so I can concentrate on the action and getting the best composition then I'm all for letting the camera do its work. If I am in a situation where the camera might struggle to get it right, that is when I'll switch to manual. Learning when to let the camera do the work and when to take over is probably one of those things that will largely come down to time and experience.
Personally to me, I feel that one of the most important aspects of photography in all genres is "Don't feel bad for yourself. Recognition by others is less important than your own personal fulfilment" You should feel good about your work before thinking about how others will think. Your own work stays with you in your own lifetime not with others, so its most critical that you yourself feel good about it first.
One of the most important things I’ve learned in 45+ years of photography is that I’m not Ansel Adams, Edward Steichen, nor even Simon d’Entremont (yes, that guy)! That is to say, most of my photos aren’t as good as the ones used or displayed by those photographers. But that shouldn’t be a source of discouragement. It should be encouraging. They encourage me to improve. And improving is the important thing.
Photography is deceptive. In theory,I don't see why I shouldn't be able to get Ansell Adams shots. I absolutely understand why I can't dunk Michael Jordan's shots. We have to learn our own happiness with what we create (the games we play) and find that happiness in a world where an idol, like Simon or Jordan, exists.
I'm just a hobby photographer, but I'm a pro musician. I played a concert on Monday, and one of the audience came up to me afterwards and said something like 'It makes us hobby players feel inferior." I replied that this wasn't the intention! In fact if someone heard something that I'd played and thought "I'm going to learn that" or "I haven't played that for ages, I'll dig out the music and have a go." then I've inspired someone to do something, to make some music, and that's a good thing - I've done something positive! Simon's videos are a must for me and they've encouraged me to think about many things differently - ISO is no longer permanently set to 100, for example!
This is one of the best photographic advice videos that I’ve heard on RUclips, from a guy who really does photography. Viewers should really take this to heart because the end product, the image, is the goal, not the gear that you use. Of course camera companies are trying hard to tempt us with better and better gear and famous gear influencers are trying to have the camera company money truck do a dump into their bank accounts but at the end of the day it’s you in your personal light cone that gets the inspiration to go “click” and enjoy taking the shot and viewing the shot.
Memories, memories and more memories. I am a hobbyist photographer that shots mainly while traveling, family events, holidays, and chasing the grandkids. I am 71 years old, lots of film albums of my daughters growing up, lots of travel photographs of all the places I have been lucky to visit with my wife and family and now lots of photograph of my grandkids. Sharp or not sharp, exposure proper or not for me who cares...memories are priceless. Thanks Simon for sharing your valuable thoughts.
I just want to say thank you Simon for all the work you do. I got into photography a year ago, and began watching your videos. I mainly stuck with wildlife and nature, learning from all of your videos and some other great photographers on youtube. This week, I began training for my first photography job doing candid sports photography and senior portraits for high schools using my wildlife portfolio. I never dreamed I'd be where I am today when I started, and I feel like it's just the beginning for me in my photography journey. I really do consider your videos to be one of the biggest reason's I've seen such an improvement in my skills in such a short amount of time. You are a great teacher!
When I started, I used to obsess about noise/grain in my images. But as I progressed in my art and began to embrace the idea that it was inevitable, I actually started liking it and preferring it in some of my images.
Thanks Simon you are a great teacher and person. My philosophy is to “get the shot”, nothing more, nothing less. You make the compromises to make the shot, and decide later how big you can realistically print.
While studying photography, I was getting closer to the moment when I was supposed to pick a genre for specialization. Eventually, I decided to drop school and focus on understanding my own sight, rather than choosing a genre. I got personal time (and saved some money I would spend for school), traveled a bit, and got my telephoto. That was the moment when I put together my technical knowledge and my particular way of looking at things. That increased my enjoyment and commitment to photography. I eventually went back to school, but that decision was such a game-changer.
I took up photography at 56 as form to heal from pain. I taught myself, I print my work, and hang them up. I’ve given my images to friends as gifts. I had a professional critique some of my work. She asked me who I took images for. I said “ for myself” I shoot landscape and anything that feels right. It is a hobby. I love it you do you. Good luck.
2 things that have helped me that is mostly wrong in most photography circles are. 1. I shoot less shots vs more almost like film. I look at the frame and if it isn't right, I don't press the shutter. 2. I shoot RAW+ since I strive for a good image in jpeg "owning" mistakes and don't post process (still have the raw if I ever choose to change). Now I am not the greatest photographer by any means but have learned a lot with these in mind and lots of great books and RUclips videos like yours. So in conclusion I don't think there is a right or wrong way for any of us to create images as long as we are enjoying the process, like what we have created and learn more while helping others meanwhile appreciating the work of others.
Came for the wildlife photography, stayed for the landscapes. Simon's astro and landscapes are most excellent 👌. Oh, and he is a top notch teacher as well!
Thank you for this. I have been struggling with this and figuring it out. I went back to my old photos and have pulled many more that I didn't approve in the past. This is the same with music. A great composition is a great composition. Period
You brought up a very good point about using photos you previously thought weren’t good enough. The reason I started using OM (previously Olympus) was because of RUclipsr, David Thorpe. The Olympus system worked with the way he shared his photos and made it easier to carry equipment on his bike. Sadly, he’s deceased but his videos are still on RUclips and worth watching regardless of camera brand. Thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us. Both my wife and I are big fans.
Agree with EVERY point you make Simon! For many years my main concern was to get the right camera ... Meanwhile I learned that the most important aspects in photography are these: 1) Some talent necessary to recognize and to anticipate a worthwhile scene, 2) Experience - also in mastering blindly the technical stuff, 3) and the opportunity TO BE THERE IN THE DECISIVE MOMENT
Love the advice, when I started out 20 odd years ago a seasoned pro advised me when choosing a manufacturer body (basically Canon or Nikon in those days) you're buying into a lens system as you'll keep your glass far longer than your bodies. It was great advice as I've gradually built a set of great lenses over that time and had maybe 8 or 9 different camera bodies as technology has advanced.
I think you are one of the most inspiring photographers active on RUclips right now. I have learned so many things from you. I stopped to reach ISO-100 all the time. I started to look for composition, not sharpness. It's all because of you. You made us better photographers, and you are the one who leads us to be better and better all the time. Thank you! ;)
Totally agree. Just a short story from my side. A few months ago, as we were having dinner with some friends, I told that I had spent several hours and making over a 1.000 photos, trying to get a picture of a seagull coming up from the water with a fish. One of the people present shook his head. "A good photgrapher only needs a one or two shots to get that..." We got into a discussion and I explained that, after 50 years of photograpy (I started in 1973 with a Praktika and a 50mm lens) I still need "my time" to get the picture I want. Sometimes even to the point where I look at photos a few months later and suddenly see a detail that I had missed before, making this photo more valuable for me, even if it is not perfect.
Only non photographers say things like that lol everyone thinks they can take pictures. They are right,however ,we don’t take pictures,we make images lol I’m sure you are awesome. Clearly you have standards for your images
Great advice. I have a sign at work that says, "Progress, not perfection", which I have learned to apply to photos as well. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
Hello Sir, i'm one of your absolute devouted viewers and I can't thank you enough for this tittle !! we don't often hear and read (I was wrong) these days !! specially coming from such a professional and a wise man. Thank you for sharing you experience with us, Sir. these informations are priceless for begginers that are looking for a solid base to start building on.
Another great video Simon. The timing and subject matter were perfect in helping me overcome a minor crisis in confidence, and helped me realise that I was still on the right path on my photographic journey. Thank You.
I joined a site called 52Frames to expand what I shot and to see how others shot the same topic. I took your many topics and used a 100-500 to shoot something only 15 feet away to capture “the moment “ and to me it turned out as expected. Thanks for all you bring to this beginner.
The most important thing I learned from this guy was to not be afraid of higher iso. Lean a bit towards overexposure and your high ISO shots will be much cleaner. Super important for wildlife and freezing action. Thanks!
The only people who fuss over sharpness are photographers and art directors. I love using lower MP cameras because of the ease of working with smaller files. My 2 favorite camera bodies are the 12MP Nikon D300 and the 16mp Pentax K5. With regards to dynamic range, I turn it down because I want to get the look of slide film. I want my shadows to go black. I don't need the latest and "greatest" gear to get the results I want. I'm retired and photograph for fun. The last thing I want to do is make a business out of my hobby, because I don't want to work anymore.
I really like you make photography more accessible with your great tips and down to Earth style! Not like "do this and that otherwise that's not photography". Also love when you support your topics with the picture you made. It just makes everything more clear! Really love to watch your videos even if I have less time to go out there and take photos nowadays!
Man, thanks so much for all your work to share this information! Ive become way more confident in taking pictures and took my camera to more places and thus making more pictures. Once again, thank you so much!
You are plain and simple, THE BEST!! I’ve been shooting for 40 yrs but you teach me something new every time. At a minimum, you force me to think, rethink something I thought was important, or better yet, you make me look outside my comfort zone. Thank you!!
I love that you said that a good photo doesn't mean to be the sharper one. For too many times I didn't like the photo that I took just beacuse it was not the sharpest. Thank you for your words!
From more than 60 years of photographic experience (got my first camera at the age of 7 and haven’t stopped shooting, now 68) I can say, that you are spot on with all statements in this video. Some of my best shots from mountaineering are shot on positive film with very low dynamic range, shadows blown out, but viewers love these images and they have sold my books on mountaineering. In the days of analog (that I still use a lot byside digital) the camera wasn’t important for obvoius reasons, on the other hand the film and lens was, and as you say even today the lens is the most important thing. Great video, thanks for cutting through all bullshit 😀
I have learned many things with practice (after more than 40 years behibd the camera), just like you. But you know how to express it. Congratulations for a great video, you are a wonderful teacher!
That‘s the spirit. Never seen a more inspiring video about photography. Thanks very much for sharing your thoughts and your tremendous amount of experience in such an unagitated way!
A lot of good advice. This is why I am subscribed to this channel. A humble professional shares his hard earned knowledge. What else is there to say. Cheers, Simon, and thank you.
Hi Simon, another inspiring video that makes you want to go out and photograph. I've heard photographers say if you shoot in TTL flash your not a Pro. I shoot in TTL and it does a fine job. I've taken 68 Thousand photos since 2011. I used to delete photos that weren't that sharp as well, and not going out when it rains. I now go out on rainy days and photograph the people with Umbrella's, you get some really nice Colours. Thanks for this video Simon its much appreciated 😊
68 thousand in over 10 year ? , no offense but im just curious how is it only 68 thousand , im a video guy but ive accrued over 70k over the course of a year
I take photos at soccer games and what I have found is as the goalie is making the save get lots of photos. I shoot at 5 frames per second, I could do more but it would be way too many. As it is I come home typically with 500-800 photos per game. My key point is immediately review and delete 80-90% of the photos you took. Then share the rest with the team and the team's parents. I also find, the team and parents do want you taking photos of everyone, not just your own child or grandchild. Get photos of everyone.
Bonjour Simon! As you know, we Nova Scotians like to say "if you don't like the weather, wait 15 minutes" - your point about bad weather in this video was very interesting, and I think it would make a good topic for its own whole video (how to set up & take care of your gear in weather, etc.) Keep up the great work.
I would disagree that the photos of "Tank Man" and the Abbey Road Beatles cover are poor quality photos. They were both shot on film, the China photo shot on a Nikon FE2 camera through a Nikkor 400mm 5.6 ED-IF lens and TC-301 teleconverter on a Fuji 100 ISO film; the Beatles photo was shot on a Hasselblad 500C camera with 120 transparency film, probably Kodachrome II film (maybe Ektachrome?). They are very good quality for the time period, both shot on the best equipment available for the situation and purpose. Also, the webinized and digitized files shown in the video likely do not show the full quality of the original film images. Photography was much different before current digital cameras. Something not touched on in the video is that prior to modern autofocus lenses and cameras, focus was manual. Camera settings were really not a big deal when shooting. Photographers new what settings to use in most situations and there were built-in and hand-held light meters that helped as a guide. The video talks about taking thousands of pictures in a short time. With film, this wasn't the same. Yes, it was possible to shoot many, many rolls, but each photo was important at the moment it was taken. And each photo had to be focused. With modern cameras shooting 30 photos a second, in focus, with all auto settings, photgraphy, such as for sports, is a different craft. Not better or worse, but different. Ultimately, it is the emotional impact of the finished photo that makes the difference, for example this year's Olympic photo of the surfer with his finger pointing to God or the photo of the moment Lee Harvey Oswald what hit with the bullet. In any case, it seems valuable to learn how to shoot manual so that one understands how each of the auto settings can successfully be used in the most positive way. And yes, there are situations where manual is best, such as when studio strobes or when trying to get an artistic look in an unusual lighting situation.
The world's greatest photographs were taken with basic equipment on limited settings and mostly manual focus. The photographer had to hone their craft and become skilled. Nowadays we go all gaga over photos taken with extremely fast autofocus, fps that leave you breathless, and auto everything. Of course there are still skills involved but most of them have been transferred to the (computerised) gear.
Simon, this is one of your best videos. I have experienced and gone through these things. In this video, you were really animated and a little funny. I could actually feel you reliving these moments. As photographers we generally have the same misconceptions, make the same mistakes and finally arrive at the same key learnings.
100% agree with your comment about weather. I've learned the exact same thing over 40 years. Bad weather = great opportunities. You illustrated it well with the images you provided. Bad weather adds a "mood" to the photo / video that bright sunshine misses. Similarly, learning to shoot at dawn or dusk, even at night opens up wonderful creative opportunities.
Excellent advice, as always. I shoot a 20MP M43 for high school sports and used to agonized about keeping ISO low to reduce noise. I now shoot manual with auto ISO and just worry about getting the shot. Many more keeper now.
Oh, and about the lesson I have learned after 50 years of photography: Since life isn't perfect, perfect pictures show illusions. I rather have not that good pictures showing "the moment" then missing the moment because the picture maybe would not have been perfect.
I still uses the lenses I used when I was younger, my dad had a big collection of Pentax lenses and I use to use them to when I was still living whit my parents. I think I had my first camera before I was 10, now 40+ years later I got all the old lenses from my dad, got a Pentax K1 markII and really enjoying to use the lenses again. the slower paste of focusing makes you more aware what I''m doing and want to make. the most important bit is that it makes me happy and that is the best thing of all. now doing a lot of macro with bellows and backward lenses it's a nice challenge that keeps me from the street.
I agree with sunset over the water shots. However, the magic of low-angle sunlight on subjects is incredibly compelling. This quality of light is particularly challenging to replicate through post-processing.
What you said about sharpness really hit home. When we were in Florence walking down a street, a small group was approaching, two couples, one who'd obviously just married. They were all so happy looking, I quickly raised my camera and snapped a shot of them as we passed each other. It's still a favorite because of the story and their joy in it.
Yep. Good lens takes priority. We used to think a SLR with interchangeable lenses meant getting a stack of lenses for different situations. Nup. Being able to buy body and lens separately allows you to match body and lens preferences / needs.
My biggest challenge is combining my bird photography passion with a very hectic family life, three very young kids, I cannot travel everywhere near and far and get out at the “right time” to catch the best lighting conditions. Do you have any tips to overcome this? :)
The best thing is knowing your camera so well you know the photo before you take it…Take thousands of photos till you can shoot without thinking… but knowing 🤔👍🏻🤩
I'm just starting my own journey so I have learned just a few things, the most important is to hear the more experienced professionals. Your advice will grow in fertile soil. Thanks for the video.
I really liked this channel, but recently I noticed that the new videos are just repeated tips from previous videos. You are an amazing teacher, but in my opinion, there is a lack of new, maybe smaller tips. These are my observations, maybe I am wrong.
After returning to photography from a long hiatus, I dove into all the research of gear and techniques to use. There is always more we can learn and apply, composition being my favorite and most challenging one. As far as what I've learned, it is easy to work with a darker image than over exposed but also, what we may be over critical of, other may not care about. Cheers Simon.
"how do you determine how many stops of dynamic range are in your photos?" -- what do you mean by that question? There is no such thing as DR of a "photo", because "photo" is not defined. You probably know that dynamic range of the scene you take picture of is practically always much higher than that of the RAW file, and jpeg has much lower DR, and display or print may have even lower DR than that. DR of the scene is always being reduced by compression and truncation, we never observe in the final image what we see in nature.
I love your videos there is always so much truth in them, I myself by saying that “everyone is a photographer until M” I almost gave up photography, the only thing that has given me joy since I was 12 years old. I could not understand and come to why people catch all these great moments on M as they predict how to set it all up in a split second. Until I realized that they don't do it at all in the studio where nothing is chasing us the conditions are constant you can work on the manual mode, since I set the camera correctly in the aperture mode and learned how to use it I finally enjoy photography again, I also use the other modes, but I finally understood what each of them is used for how to use them fully. Thanks for another great video :)
@11:50 how did you know that these photographs have this much of dynamic range.. If Iam looking at photograph which I took, how would I know how many stops of dynamic range it has? could you please help on that.
First thing first, you really are an amazing teacher with a wealth of real world knowledge to share. I have always been the same sharpness freak, but I agree some of my best photos were not the sharpest or the most megapixels and I cherish them. Those once in a lifetime photos, or just those that elicit such emotion or beauty that everything else fades away. I also used to say "I can fix that in post", what a crock- these days I take my photos with the intent of not spending all my time editing (I love shooting). Each of us have to do what works for us, but with your exceptional insights and tips, I am confident we will all improve by watching and listening to you. Thank you!
This is brilliant. All a photo has to have is impact. Learn to compose and shoot, shoot, shoot. And good advice about keping the less than perfect old photos.
I know a few professional photographers that DO shoot all manual when there is no logical reason to do so. From what I see, having to handle more dials than necessary only invites exposure mistakes, and those guys do make a lot of them... Perhaps "looking like a pro" means a lot to some people, even if they are actual pros.
Great advice Simon. I have definitely made the mistake of trying to get technical perfection and deleted photos that had more grain than I liked or were a bit fuzzy. Capturing the soul of your subject or telling a great story is a far more compelling photo. I appreciate your perspective and willingness to share how your mindset has changed over time. Great content as always!
Great DR is what allows me getting nice blue skies and landscape details at the same time. There are plenty of times when you need as much DR as you can get even resorting to HDR, as well as there are times when it doesn't matter. Anybody saying that it's always one way or the other is an ignoramus.
I have taken thousands of photos. Don't have super-expensive equipment. I mainly take photos as potential reference pics for paintings. Often, a softer pic is fine. Even a phone pic can be fine for some paintings. I entered a national amateur photo competition & all three photos achieved "commended". Someone who has achieved prestigious awards told me that having a good eye is more important than the type of camera.
@@coin777 think of the photo around that same time stamp with the sun behind and the sun stars, if it would have been midday could have been a boring photo, but the sun at that location helps make the photo Also, a sun peaking behind clouds to add sun streaks, etc... Basically, the weather conditions/time of day can change how an image looks when captured
I started shooting in 1968. I don't remember what I thought was most important. At this point I just shoot for me and share. About the only thing I was never stuck on was film. The end of film for me was my first DSLR in 2008. I spent many years from 1968 to 1998 in a darkroom. I appear to be over that now. Nice memories but that's it.
Simon, this and other videos of yours have freed me from the self-imposed constraints that you described so well. Photography is even more fun for me as a result. Thanks!
![Coheed and Cambria - Searching for Tomorrow [Official Video]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/hDsYGLbmadg/mqdefault.jpg)
What lesson have you learned after many photos? Let me know!
Sometimes even noise can be an artistical flair, the over-sharpened "fashion" of TikTok, RUclips Shorts and Reels make most of new photographers think that the best is only the sharpest, instead of focusing on the composition and the story of the image. That's why most Instagram/TikTok "photographers" capture the same "boring" pictures all the time. That also also using the same presets to edit all pictures that they've posted, makes everyone around take the same style and same pictures, because everybody nowadays is copying everyone around and forgetting to be original
Started playing with ISO instead of the “have to shoot at 100” rule
Don’t be afried of noise.
@@simon_dentremont using auto ISO. I used to stay well clear of auto ISO, but now, with better noise reducing software (well AI software) it's really not as big a problem as it used to be. So now I use auto ISO quite a lot when I'm shooting action or in changeable conditions.
Using a flash isn't cheating. Getting the image "out of camera" without post processing doesn't mean you are better.
Instead of making hype videos on every single new lens that comes out, you make videos that actually help people take better photos. Thanks for that.
I appreciate that!
Like those 2 'know it all's" do.
You still NEED those who does video "for every single lens that comes out" to see at least in average how it works, and what you can expect.
Don't hate those people, because without them, you wouldn't see how it works and some people sacrifice a lot of time for going through really hard technical aspects and tests..
It's often best to stick with what you've got unless it's truly holding you back. A 50mm is never going to be an acceptable replacement for a 200mm lens if that's what you need, although with today's pixel rich sensors it's not as big of a deal, provided you don't need the difference in angle.
@@pentagramyt417 I agree, not everybody has a full complement of lenses. And a lot of people may benefit from a new lens, even if they already have all the ones they "need" just to shake things up a bit and bring back some of the novelty.
Best teacher on RUclips! Never again fell to the trap of trying to shoot everything at ISO 100 thanks to you! And my pictures couldn't be better!
*except films... :)
True, everything i know, i learned from @simon_dentremont
It kind of blew my mind when I found out that some modern dSLRs actually have better noise a couple ISO speeds above minimum.
@@VietnameseCosmonaut Yes, although you can get interesting effects with different sensitivities. And the answer will depend a bit on whether it's slide film or negative film.
@@SmallSpoonBrigade it shouldn't surprise you. while old models are victims of the limitations of older technologies, technologies constantly change and develop.
Software processing in camera also improves, so set up your Aperture, Exposure time to achieve the effect you want and don't think of ISO. Use the correct ISO and do not fall slave of old mantras.
'Shoot in the mode that gets you the photo you want'
Never a truer sentence said.
Yeah manual.
@@jamesburne3893 funny that so many people use 'Manual' as much automatic as any of priority modes. You have effectively 4 variables (sensitivity, time, aperture, exposure compensation) and in M, A, and S modes you set 3 of them and let camera calculate remaining one. Its just a choice which one is least important or most tedious to dial for you.
@@anupew3276 I used to, but I stopped doing so in recent years as most of the time, I cared about either aperture or shutter speed and I was just using the other one that gave me the desired exposure. I mostly just use manual mode if I need to lock both of them down and allow for the auto-ISO to dial in the exposure.
Then again, I started out with a Canon 10D and the ISO was a lot more limited, so I was dialing it in more manually just to get close enough with the RAW files to adjust from there.
Forced myself to shoot manual when I was starting out and I don’t regret it. I just rely on my muscle memory and took Simon’s tip to intentionally stop down to 2 in exposure and brighten it in post is a real game changer. Especially with my non-image stabilized 50mm prime lens if I need to use a faster shutter speed
“Never a truer sentence”
Settle down there, champ.
Honestly my biggest lesson was (and still is) to be less critical of myself. I tend to not be happy with my photographs because I compare it to all the great ones out there.
I gifted a calendar of my photographs to my family for Christmas last year and recently my Grandma told me an acquaintance of hers wouldn't believe that this wasn't a store bought calendar. Compliments like that definitely help out with feeling better about one's work :)
Thank you, Simon, for all your amazing work! 🤗
Got my first dslr in my early 20s, was so afraid of posting photos on social media because there're so many great photographers out there (it's the dslr era before smartphone photography was a thing). So I gave it up for many years. Now in my mid 30s, I suddenly don't give a damn anymore. I just feel the overflowing love for everything around me, the sunset, the street, my children... I take countless photos and love them all. Wish I felt that way in my younger years...
I personally know when I've got an exceptional one because I look at it and forget that I was the one that captured it. I have never felt like that when it wasn't one of the best photos I've ever taken. Sometimes you just look at it and know it's special and don't feel the temptation to pixel peek.
You nailed it when you said we are our own worst critics! The problem with gifting the calendars is you just know the next year they'll be expecting another one! LOL
@@jerrypuckett7303 I created a reusable one so that won't be an issue 😂
The same with me. I am my own worst enemy. I'll be going to Yellowstone in a few weeks. I'm going to try to follow more of what Simon has said. :-)
Simon really is the GOAT of RUclips photography. Great teacher and his photos blow away most other RUclipsrs
Totally agree
Goat means Getting Old And Tired. Retire that acronym. It's silly.
@@GaryIrving-x5oIt means what is generally accepted by MOST. Yours is not one I’ve ever heard or seen anywhere.
@@aztechuhs 🤔🤔🤔Have You Watched,Astrobackyard,Nico Carver@Nebula Photos,Alyn Wallace,Who Is No Longer With Us😢RIP Alyn,Dillon O’Donnell…This Person Is The Greatest In Your Mind…Not Everyones…Wow…Expand Your Viewing
Something I've found to be more important than MPs is how a camera feels in my hands. I never thought I'd care, but after a whole day of shooting on a safari and shooting for days back-to-back, the feel of a camera in my hands is now towards the top of my priority list
million percent agree.
Absolutely. I’ve used tons of ILCs but nothing feels as good to hold as my RX10 IV. The camera is special to me and motivates me to get out and the IQ is usually fine.
I have to agree as well. The first DSLR I handled was a Canon D30 (not a typo). A 3mp, $3000 body. And it just didn’t fit me at all. I handled a Nikon D100, fell in love and had to have one. Ergonomics now a days is more important (imho) than anything else. Most all cameras do a really good job. Just don’t let my Canon-shooting friend hear me say that! 😉
Completely agree. My Canon 90D fits perfectly in my hands. I can use it all day.
Agree, ergonomics and usability of a camera body are my top priortiy when choosing a body and sometimes even a lens... some lenses just don't feel right or the controls aren't laid out right.
1:14 (1)sharpness isn't everything
2:42 (2)fuss more over lenses than cameras
3:58 (3)get out in the right light
4:54 (4)Any mode can deliver great results
7:32 (5)get out in bad weather
8:41 (6) more MP isn't always needed
10:05 bonus tip
Thank you so much for this. Greatly appreciated.
@@tarikuvianello2566 Kinda' like audio equipment: great speakers and a mediocre amp beat a great amp and poor speakers every time.
You should do a video on how to protect your equipement in bad weather. Kind of scrared to get out with 4000$ of equipment when it’s pouring rain.
Use OM System gear which is fully weather proofed and rain and snow won't matter. 🙂 (This is true, but I understand your concern about taking care of your gear).
In the 15 years of my photography I learned that the more genres I am interested the more expensive this hobby becomes both financially and on my time/attention but bing so curious means I can never get bored and there's always something I can and want to shoot. Don't get stuck on just one kind of subject/photography.
100% agreed. Just out of curiosity I went out one night to try night fotography. Basically I just wanted to understand how long exposure works with my camera. Best decision ever. It was like 0°C and yet I was kneeling on the pavement, trying to get the perfect shot.
I have also found that taking pictures of multiple subjects has made my photography better my "main" genre
Yeah I can’t understand how so many people can restrict themselves to one or two genres. I understand that when you’re marketing for money you need to get proficient, but many don’t seem to explore
@w0lfyovi294 Yep, and any "shutter time" provides a better understanding of photography principles and familiarity with your camera.
More addictive to me than drugs. I have a lens selection for Canon that has been excellent. I especially love their portrait and Birding lenses. The RF28-70 f2 is my favorite. It’s worth every penny.
Dear Mr. d'Entremont, thanks a lot for liberating me from the slavery of pixel peeping, sharpness obsession, and gear upgrades. I own a modest camera (Sony a6000), a decent lens, and I make pictures that I like and that other people like. That's enough for me, in the current phase of my photography journey. Thanks, merci!
“Get the shot and process to taste the photo that you have.” As a new photographer with less than a year of experience, this has been the lesson I’m focused on. I bought the camera to capture memories of trips to South America and the Canadian Rockies. 20,000+ photos later, I have several images that really speak to me, so I plan to print and hang on the wall. Thanks, Simon, for all the tips. This channel has been a tremendous help in my photography journey!
As primarily a landscape photographer I thought that shooting from a sturdy tripod was always a necessity. I realize now that with sufficient light, higher ISO, and faster shutter speeds a tripod might not always be required. There’s an amazing sense of freedom not being tied to a tripod for every photograph.
Yes 100%, and a tripod can actually limit your ability to freely compose and get more unique perspectives.
What I've learned from watching Simon is that no matter how experienced you are…you can always learn something new! Best photography channel on RUclips..bar none. Cheers from Cape Breton MikeR.
The biggest lesson I've learned over the years as a photographer is shoot your shot, some will love it and others won't, but that shouldn't stop you from doing your style, from comp to final edits. You're in control and only you can hinder and stop your photography.
Great information as always Simon, one of the best photography instructors on RUclips!
Great advice. Probably more important that every one Simon listed.
No scantily dressed models, language that won't embarrass you if family walks into the room & best of all, advice that inspires me to get out the camera.
As a beginner photographer, your videos are an absolute must to watch. Just way too many opinions on RUclips. Thank you Simon for your knowledge and honesty in all your videos
You, sir, speak straight to the heart when it comes to the essence and meaning of photography. Thank you
My own lesson: After a few months as an amateur photographer, I soon realizrr that framing and composition is what matters most. Tecnhical knowledge should just help to take the photo.
There are many visual components that play huge role in the content quality and story of a photo. The more I study them, the less I worry about if my camera is the right one.
But I will somehow worry about the next lens I am going to buy 😊
And overall I am happy that it didn't took me years to realise the essence of framing and composition. And I thank many youtubers about that and especially you Sir.
the point about quality is by far the most important thing here, i used to be very scared of grain and rough patches in my photos, but when looking through some of the greatest photos ever taken, the majority are grainy and poor quality, but they capture a moment and story, which is all that mattered.
I am not a wildlife and nature photographer, but I appreciate your take on photography in general. Far more helpful and interesting than many other RUclipsrs with followers in the millions. As for what I have learned over a lifetime of photography . . . capturing "the moment" is most important . . . every other quality of a photo is art . . . sometimes everything falls into place . . . and the "Magic" works. Cheers to many more years or your beautiful work.
Listen to this man! 100% correct. Thank you for being clear, level headed, contextualized, unhyped, and to the point. Great evolution on the mindset.
Glad you enjoyed it!
I'm 27, a full-time teacher and started sports photography last February 2024. I know I started late but I know I'll get there. Your tips and tricks really helped me. Thanks, Sir! 🙌🏻
Started late? Lol. I started at 56 and have a nice little business shooting wildlife and landscapes, self publishing calendars and books and selling greeting cards and prints from my website. Go directly for it, sonny boy. :) I wish you lots of success.
Simon, your voice booms into my living room with your tips like a close friend helping me out. I find myself watching and listening to your superb, polite, encouraging and yet so informative videos wherever I am in the world.
As consumers we have no idea of what camera and what lens works best. You remind us of what an AP photographer told me 20 years ago.
"The money is in the glass"
Thank you and keep making the videos!
I love your comments..... I kept the AUTO ISO shooting mode "secret" for many years as many people acted like I was committing a crime against the photography gods if I did. Do what works for you since situations varies so one mode may not work in all conditions.
I always get an "allergic" reaction to those who are "absolutist" about photography..... "if you don't do this you are no good" is their line, I am glad people like you helps to dismiss these concepts.
I was stunned to learn that this includes croppers. "I don't crop" is a boast? I did that for a month as a challenge and training of my skills, but not as a benchmark of status
Yep - same. I had people react in disgust to my use of AutoISO - I simply ignore them. I nearly always get the shots I want in street photography where I walk in and out of shadows all the time because the camera can react way faster than I can to change of light. I use aperture priority to get the depth I want - and leave the camera to do its job
@@donperegrine922 Those who don't crop probably never took a photo of a hummingbird. Those things are restless and with completely random movement.
Crisp clear message + great production quality + in-depth subject + high energy pitch = another Simon d'Entremont RUclips video
I have enjoyed many of these. Thank you Simon for all you are doing for the "sport" of photography.
I started out in the 70’s; in 1980 I got a degree in applied technical photography/commercial stuff. THEN- as now, the concerns are the same:
Did I nail Focus. Did I properly Expose. Did I Capture? And darkroom.
I still can’t nail critical focus at times. Sometimes spray/pray is needed. I still shoot stuff and wonder wtf? I still overshoot. My WHOLE life.
AND THERE IS NOTHING I MISS ABOUT FILM!! 😂
So much good advice here Simon. For a little while I was one of those who only shot in manual. On reflection, I realised I was only doing this to sound cool. Learning to shoot manual is great for understanding how the technical side of photography works. But like you said, what really matters is getting the shot, regardless of what mode you used to get it. These days if my camera can do the heavy lifting of picking the best settings so I can concentrate on the action and getting the best composition then I'm all for letting the camera do its work. If I am in a situation where the camera might struggle to get it right, that is when I'll switch to manual. Learning when to let the camera do the work and when to take over is probably one of those things that will largely come down to time and experience.
Personally to me, I feel that one of the most important aspects of photography in all genres is
"Don't feel bad for yourself. Recognition by others is less important than your own personal fulfilment"
You should feel good about your work before thinking about how others will think.
Your own work stays with you in your own lifetime not with others, so its most critical that you yourself feel good about it first.
Exactly
💚💚💚
Excellent!! "Let the camera adjust itself within a thousandth of a second." Finally, realistic phography advice.
One of the most important things I’ve learned in 45+ years of photography is that I’m not Ansel Adams, Edward Steichen, nor even Simon d’Entremont (yes, that guy)!
That is to say, most of my photos aren’t as good as the ones used or displayed by those photographers. But that shouldn’t be a source of discouragement. It should be encouraging.
They encourage me to improve. And improving is the important thing.
Simon’s work is something we can all strive for.
Photography is deceptive. In theory,I don't see why I shouldn't be able to get Ansell Adams shots.
I absolutely understand why I can't dunk Michael Jordan's shots.
We have to learn our own happiness with what we create (the games we play) and find that happiness in a world where an idol, like Simon or Jordan, exists.
I'm just a hobby photographer, but I'm a pro musician. I played a concert on Monday, and one of the audience came up to me afterwards and said something like 'It makes us hobby players feel inferior." I replied that this wasn't the intention! In fact if someone heard something that I'd played and thought "I'm going to learn that" or "I haven't played that for ages, I'll dig out the music and have a go." then I've inspired someone to do something, to make some music, and that's a good thing - I've done something positive! Simon's videos are a must for me and they've encouraged me to think about many things differently - ISO is no longer permanently set to 100, for example!
This is one of the best photographic advice videos that I’ve heard on RUclips, from a guy who really does photography. Viewers should really take this to heart because the end product, the image, is the goal, not the gear that you use. Of course camera companies are trying hard to tempt us with better and better gear and famous gear influencers are trying to have the camera company money truck do a dump into their bank accounts but at the end of the day it’s you in your personal light cone that gets the inspiration to go “click” and enjoy taking the shot and viewing the shot.
Memories, memories and more memories. I am a hobbyist photographer that shots mainly while traveling, family events, holidays, and chasing the grandkids. I am 71 years old, lots of film albums of my daughters growing up, lots of travel photographs of all the places I have been lucky to visit with my wife and family and now lots of photograph of my grandkids. Sharp or not sharp, exposure proper or not for me who cares...memories are priceless. Thanks Simon for sharing your valuable thoughts.
I go way back...to film. On my trip to Antarctica, I shot 32 rolls of film. Penguins and seals. South Georgia island is well worth the trip.
I just want to say thank you Simon for all the work you do. I got into photography a year ago, and began watching your videos. I mainly stuck with wildlife and nature, learning from all of your videos and some other great photographers on youtube.
This week, I began training for my first photography job doing candid sports photography and senior portraits for high schools using my wildlife portfolio. I never dreamed I'd be where I am today when I started, and I feel like it's just the beginning for me in my photography journey. I really do consider your videos to be one of the biggest reason's I've seen such an improvement in my skills in such a short amount of time. You are a great teacher!
When I started, I used to obsess about noise/grain in my images. But as I progressed in my art and began to embrace the idea that it was inevitable, I actually started liking it and preferring it in some of my images.
Thanks Simon you are a great teacher and person. My philosophy is to “get the shot”, nothing more, nothing less. You make the compromises to make the shot, and decide later how big you can realistically print.
While studying photography, I was getting closer to the moment when I was supposed to pick a genre for specialization. Eventually, I decided to drop school and focus on understanding my own sight, rather than choosing a genre. I got personal time (and saved some money I would spend for school), traveled a bit, and got my telephoto. That was the moment when I put together my technical knowledge and my particular way of looking at things. That increased my enjoyment and commitment to photography. I eventually went back to school, but that decision was such a game-changer.
I took up photography at 56 as form to heal from pain. I taught myself, I print my work, and hang them up. I’ve given my images to friends as gifts. I had a professional critique some of my work. She asked me who I took images for. I said “ for myself” I shoot landscape and anything that feels right. It is a hobby. I love it you do you. Good luck.
2 things that have helped me that is mostly wrong in most photography circles are.
1. I shoot less shots vs more almost like film. I look at the frame and if it isn't right, I don't press the shutter.
2. I shoot RAW+ since I strive for a good image in jpeg "owning" mistakes and don't post process (still have the raw if I ever choose to change).
Now I am not the greatest photographer by any means but have learned a lot with these in mind and lots of great books and RUclips videos like yours.
So in conclusion I don't think there is a right or wrong way for any of us to create images as long as we are enjoying the process, like what we have created and learn more while helping others meanwhile appreciating the work of others.
Came for the wildlife photography, stayed for the landscapes. Simon's astro and landscapes are most excellent 👌. Oh, and he is a top notch teacher as well!
Glad you enjoyed it
Thank you for this. I have been struggling with this and figuring it out. I went back to my old photos and have pulled many more that I didn't approve in the past. This is the same with music. A great composition is a great composition. Period
You brought up a very good point about using photos you previously thought weren’t good enough. The reason I started using OM (previously Olympus) was because of RUclipsr, David Thorpe. The Olympus system worked with the way he shared his photos and made it easier to carry equipment on his bike. Sadly, he’s deceased but his videos are still on RUclips and worth watching regardless of camera brand.
Thank you for sharing your knowledge with all of us. Both my wife and I are big fans.
Agree with EVERY point you make Simon! For many years my main concern was to get the right camera ... Meanwhile I learned that the most important aspects in photography are these: 1) Some talent necessary to recognize and to anticipate a worthwhile scene, 2) Experience - also in mastering blindly the technical stuff, 3) and the opportunity TO BE THERE IN THE DECISIVE MOMENT
Love the advice, when I started out 20 odd years ago a seasoned pro advised me when choosing a manufacturer body (basically Canon or Nikon in those days) you're buying into a lens system as you'll keep your glass far longer than your bodies. It was great advice as I've gradually built a set of great lenses over that time and had maybe 8 or 9 different camera bodies as technology has advanced.
I think you are one of the most inspiring photographers active on RUclips right now. I have learned so many things from you. I stopped to reach ISO-100 all the time. I started to look for composition, not sharpness. It's all because of you. You made us better photographers, and you are the one who leads us to be better and better all the time.
Thank you! ;)
Wow, thank you!
Totally agree.
Just a short story from my side.
A few months ago, as we were having dinner with some friends, I told that I had spent several hours and making over a 1.000 photos, trying to get a picture of a seagull coming up from the water with a fish. One of the people present shook his head. "A good photgrapher only needs a one or two shots to get that..." We got into a discussion and I explained that, after 50 years of photograpy (I started in 1973 with a Praktika and a 50mm lens) I still need "my time" to get the picture I want. Sometimes even to the point where I look at photos a few months later and suddenly see a detail that I had missed before, making this photo more valuable for me, even if it is not perfect.
Only non photographers say things like that lol everyone thinks they can take pictures. They are right,however ,we don’t take pictures,we make images lol I’m sure you are awesome. Clearly you have standards for your images
Great advice. I have a sign at work that says, "Progress, not perfection", which I have learned to apply to photos as well. Thanks for sharing your wisdom!
I see Simon upload, I drop everything I'm doing to watch!
same sentiment. because if i do another thing I might miss this important video.
Hello Sir, i'm one of your absolute devouted viewers and I can't thank you enough for this tittle !! we don't often hear and read (I was wrong) these days !! specially coming from such a professional and a wise man.
Thank you for sharing you experience with us, Sir. these informations are priceless for begginers that are looking for a solid base to start building on.
Another great video Simon. The timing and subject matter were perfect in helping me overcome a minor crisis in confidence, and helped me realise that I was still on the right path on my photographic journey. Thank You.
I joined a site called 52Frames to expand what I shot and to see how others shot the same topic. I took your many topics and used a 100-500 to shoot something only 15 feet away to capture “the moment “ and to me it turned out as expected. Thanks for all you bring to this beginner.
This is what I love about Simon's videos. Common sense and simple but effective advice. Another great vid! Thanks
Well done as always. You always present the material in a clear and easy to understand manner. Thank you.
The most important thing I learned from this guy was to not be afraid of higher iso. Lean a bit towards overexposure and your high ISO shots will be much cleaner. Super important for wildlife and freezing action. Thanks!
The only people who fuss over sharpness are photographers and art directors. I love using lower MP cameras because of the ease of working with smaller files. My 2 favorite camera bodies are the 12MP Nikon D300 and the 16mp Pentax K5. With regards to dynamic range, I turn it down because I want to get the look of slide film. I want my shadows to go black. I don't need the latest and "greatest" gear to get the results I want. I'm retired and photograph for fun. The last thing I want to do is make a business out of my hobby, because I don't want to work anymore.
Thanks for that tip re: slide film.
I really like you make photography more accessible with your great tips and down to Earth style! Not like "do this and that otherwise that's not photography". Also love when you support your topics with the picture you made. It just makes everything more clear! Really love to watch your videos even if I have less time to go out there and take photos nowadays!
Man, thanks so much for all your work to share this information! Ive become way more confident in taking pictures and took my camera to more places and thus making more pictures.
Once again, thank you so much!
You are plain and simple, THE BEST!! I’ve been shooting for 40 yrs but you teach me something new every time. At a minimum, you force me to think, rethink something I thought was important, or better yet, you make me look outside my comfort zone. Thank you!!
Simon, this is one of your best videos ever. Thank you! Kind regards from Romania
I love that you said that a good photo doesn't mean to be the sharper one. For too many times I didn't like the photo that I took just beacuse it was not the sharpest. Thank you for your words!
You are brilliant!!! Honest and straightforward!!! Thank you!!!
You are so welcome!
From more than 60 years of photographic experience (got my first camera at the age of 7 and haven’t stopped shooting, now 68) I can say, that you are spot on with all statements in this video. Some of my best shots from mountaineering are shot on positive film with very low dynamic range, shadows blown out, but viewers love these images and they have sold my books on mountaineering. In the days of analog (that I still use a lot byside digital) the camera wasn’t important for obvoius reasons, on the other hand the film and lens was, and as you say even today the lens is the most important thing. Great video, thanks for cutting through all bullshit 😀
2:02 is an amazing photo! It doesn't look like a photo, it looks like a painting.
I have learned many things with practice (after more than 40 years behibd the camera), just like you. But you know how to express it. Congratulations for a great video, you are a wonderful teacher!
Beautiful video as always Simon! Love your work and knowledge!
Many thanks!
That‘s the spirit. Never seen a more inspiring video about photography.
Thanks very much for sharing your thoughts and your tremendous amount of experience in such an unagitated way!
Hello Simon! Thank you again for your helpful videos!
A lot of good advice. This is why I am subscribed to this channel. A humble professional shares his hard earned knowledge. What else is there to say. Cheers, Simon, and thank you.
Hi Simon, another inspiring video that makes you want to go out and photograph. I've heard photographers say if you shoot in TTL flash your not a Pro. I shoot in TTL and it does a fine job. I've taken 68 Thousand photos since 2011. I used to delete photos that weren't that sharp as well, and not going out when it rains. I now go out on rainy days and photograph the people with Umbrella's, you get some really nice Colours. Thanks for this video Simon its much appreciated 😊
Thanks Simon ☺️
68 thousand in over 10 year ? , no offense but im just curious how is it only 68 thousand , im a video guy but ive accrued over 70k over the course of a year
@@JJARCHIE No offence taken. I am a full time Carer for my mum, so I don't have much time for myself as your impressive 70 Thousand a year.
@@seaeagles6025 ah thats fair
@@JJARCHIE 👍
I take photos at soccer games and what I have found is as the goalie is making the save get lots of photos. I shoot at 5 frames per second, I could do more but it would be way too many. As it is I come home typically with 500-800 photos per game. My key point is immediately review and delete 80-90% of the photos you took. Then share the rest with the team and the team's parents. I also find, the team and parents do want you taking photos of everyone, not just your own child or grandchild. Get photos of everyone.
Great lessons Simon, well done! Thanks!
My pleasure!
Bonjour Simon! As you know, we Nova Scotians like to say "if you don't like the weather, wait 15 minutes" - your point about bad weather in this video was very interesting, and I think it would make a good topic for its own whole video (how to set up & take care of your gear in weather, etc.) Keep up the great work.
I would disagree that the photos of "Tank Man" and the Abbey Road Beatles cover are poor quality photos. They were both shot on film, the China photo shot on a Nikon FE2 camera through a Nikkor 400mm 5.6 ED-IF lens and TC-301 teleconverter on a Fuji 100 ISO film; the Beatles photo was shot on a Hasselblad 500C camera with 120 transparency film, probably Kodachrome II film (maybe Ektachrome?). They are very good quality for the time period, both shot on the best equipment available for the situation and purpose. Also, the webinized and digitized files shown in the video likely do not show the full quality of the original film images.
Photography was much different before current digital cameras. Something not touched on in the video is that prior to modern autofocus lenses and cameras, focus was manual. Camera settings were really not a big deal when shooting. Photographers new what settings to use in most situations and there were built-in and hand-held light meters that helped as a guide.
The video talks about taking thousands of pictures in a short time. With film, this wasn't the same. Yes, it was possible to shoot many, many rolls, but each photo was important at the moment it was taken. And each photo had to be focused. With modern cameras shooting 30 photos a second, in focus, with all auto settings, photgraphy, such as for sports, is a different craft. Not better or worse, but different.
Ultimately, it is the emotional impact of the finished photo that makes the difference, for example this year's Olympic photo of the surfer with his finger pointing to God or the photo of the moment Lee Harvey Oswald what hit with the bullet.
In any case, it seems valuable to learn how to shoot manual so that one understands how each of the auto settings can successfully be used in the most positive way.
And yes, there are situations where manual is best, such as when studio strobes or when trying to get an artistic look in an unusual lighting situation.
The world's greatest photographs were taken with basic equipment on limited settings and mostly manual focus. The photographer had to hone their craft and become skilled. Nowadays we go all gaga over photos taken with extremely fast autofocus, fps that leave you breathless, and auto everything. Of course there are still skills involved but most of them have been transferred to the (computerised) gear.
Simon, this is one of your best videos. I have experienced and gone through these things. In this video, you were really animated and a little funny. I could actually feel you reliving these moments. As photographers we generally have the same misconceptions, make the same mistakes and finally arrive at the same key learnings.
Thank you, Simon! Could you consider creating educational videos on lenses and lens technology?
noted
@@simon_dentremont Thank you! Please consider filters as well.
100% agree with your comment about weather. I've learned the exact same thing over 40 years. Bad weather = great opportunities. You illustrated it well with the images you provided. Bad weather adds a "mood" to the photo / video that bright sunshine misses. Similarly, learning to shoot at dawn or dusk, even at night opens up wonderful creative opportunities.
Excellent advice, as always. I shoot a 20MP M43 for high school sports and used to agonized about keeping ISO low to reduce noise. I now shoot manual with auto ISO and just worry about getting the shot. Many more keeper now.
Oh, and about the lesson I have learned after 50 years of photography:
Since life isn't perfect, perfect pictures show illusions. I rather have not that good pictures showing "the moment" then missing the moment because the picture maybe would not have been perfect.
I still uses the lenses I used when I was younger, my dad had a big collection of Pentax lenses and I use to use them to when I was still living whit my parents. I think I had my first camera before I was 10, now 40+ years later I got all the old lenses from my dad, got a Pentax K1 markII and really enjoying to use the lenses again. the slower paste of focusing makes you more aware what I''m doing and want to make. the most important bit is that it makes me happy and that is the best thing of all. now doing a lot of macro with bellows and backward lenses it's a nice challenge that keeps me from the street.
I've gotten to the point in my life where I prefer not to see yet again another sunrise or sunset light photograph. Many have become cliche!
Ok I thought it was just me.
A sunrise/set photo is only as good as the foreground. There is still room for fine pictures of this kind, so keep looking.
I agree with sunset over the water shots. However, the magic of low-angle sunlight on subjects is incredibly compelling. This quality of light is particularly challenging to replicate through post-processing.
Not all sunset/sunrise photos are equal
Ppl like you make me glad I take photos for myself not for others
What you said about sharpness really hit home. When we were in Florence walking down a street, a small group was approaching, two couples, one who'd obviously just married. They were all so happy looking, I quickly raised my camera and snapped a shot of them as we passed each other. It's still a favorite because of the story and their joy in it.
I have to go to work but I have to watch your video.
Hope you enjoyed it!
Yep. Good lens takes priority. We used to think a SLR with interchangeable lenses meant getting a stack of lenses for different situations. Nup. Being able to buy body and lens separately allows you to match body and lens preferences / needs.
My biggest challenge is combining my bird photography passion with a very hectic family life, three very young kids, I cannot travel everywhere near and far and get out at the “right time” to catch the best lighting conditions. Do you have any tips to overcome this? :)
When you can’t find uncommon subject, get uncommon photos of the common ones.
The best thing is knowing your camera so well you know the photo before you take it…Take thousands of photos till you can shoot without thinking… but knowing 🤔👍🏻🤩
1.5M photos in 12 years is an average of 10,000 to 11,000 photos per month. Insane 😮
I'm just starting my own journey so I have learned just a few things, the most important is to hear the more experienced professionals. Your advice will grow in fertile soil. Thanks for the video.
Best of luck!
I really liked this channel, but recently I noticed that the new videos are just repeated tips from previous videos. You are an amazing teacher, but in my opinion, there is a lack of new, maybe smaller tips. These are my observations, maybe I am wrong.
Noted
After returning to photography from a long hiatus, I dove into all the research of gear and techniques to use. There is always more we can learn and apply, composition being my favorite and most challenging one. As far as what I've learned, it is easy to work with a darker image than over exposed but also, what we may be over critical of, other may not care about. Cheers Simon.
Here’s something I’ e never thought about…….how do you determine how many stops of dynamic range are in your photos?
Wondering this too
There are display tools that can determine this.
@@simon_dentremontInteresting…what tool do you use?
@@simon_dentremont are you willing to point those out to us?
"how do you determine how many stops of dynamic range are in your photos?" -- what do you mean by that question? There is no such thing as DR of a "photo", because "photo" is not defined.
You probably know that dynamic range of the scene you take picture of is practically always much higher than that of the RAW file, and jpeg has much lower DR, and display or print may have even lower DR than that. DR of the scene is always being reduced by compression and truncation, we never observe in the final image what we see in nature.
I love your videos there is always so much truth in them, I myself by saying that “everyone is a photographer until M” I almost gave up photography, the only thing that has given me joy since I was 12 years old. I could not understand and come to why people catch all these great moments on M as they predict how to set it all up in a split second. Until I realized that they don't do it at all in the studio where nothing is chasing us the conditions are constant you can work on the manual mode, since I set the camera correctly in the aperture mode and learned how to use it I finally enjoy photography again, I also use the other modes, but I finally understood what each of them is used for how to use them fully. Thanks for another great video :)
@11:50 how did you know that these photographs have this much of dynamic range.. If Iam looking at photograph which I took, how would I know how many stops of dynamic range it has? could you please help on that.
There are machines that measure this, but I was going off of graphs that plot the iso against dynamic range www.photonstophotos.net/Charts/PDR.htm
@@simon_dentremont Thank you!
First thing first, you really are an amazing teacher with a wealth of real world knowledge to share. I have always been the same sharpness freak, but I agree some of my best photos were not the sharpest or the most megapixels and I cherish them. Those once in a lifetime photos, or just those that elicit such emotion or beauty that everything else fades away. I also used to say "I can fix that in post", what a crock- these days I take my photos with the intent of not spending all my time editing (I love shooting).
Each of us have to do what works for us, but with your exceptional insights and tips, I am confident we will all improve by watching and listening to you. Thank you!
Pros use M mode and always set your ISO at 100 are the most BS ones 😂
This is brilliant. All a photo has to have is impact. Learn to compose and shoot, shoot, shoot. And good advice about keping the less than perfect old photos.
I know a few professional photographers that DO shoot all manual when there is no logical reason to do so. From what I see, having to handle more dials than necessary only invites exposure mistakes, and those guys do make a lot of them... Perhaps "looking like a pro" means a lot to some people, even if they are actual pros.
Great advice Simon. I have definitely made the mistake of trying to get technical perfection and deleted photos that had more grain than I liked or were a bit fuzzy. Capturing the soul of your subject or telling a great story is a far more compelling photo. I appreciate your perspective and willingness to share how your mindset has changed over time. Great content as always!
Don't tell Tony Northrup that DR doesn't matter. 😂😂😂
Great DR is what allows me getting nice blue skies and landscape details at the same time. There are plenty of times when you need as much DR as you can get even resorting to HDR, as well as there are times when it doesn't matter. Anybody saying that it's always one way or the other is an ignoramus.
I have taken thousands of photos. Don't have super-expensive equipment.
I mainly take photos as potential reference pics for paintings. Often, a softer pic is fine. Even a phone pic can be fine for some paintings.
I entered a national amateur photo competition & all three photos achieved "commended".
Someone who has achieved prestigious awards told me that having a good eye is more important than the type of camera.
4:34 what does a "light has great potential" mean?
It has the ability to make great effects in your photos.
@@simon_dentremont i still dont understand 😭 maybe its a good video idea with some examples?
@@coin777 think of the photo around that same time stamp with the sun behind and the sun stars, if it would have been midday could have been a boring photo, but the sun at that location helps make the photo
Also, a sun peaking behind clouds to add sun streaks, etc...
Basically, the weather conditions/time of day can change how an image looks when captured
@@coin777 There was a ton of examples.
I started shooting in 1968. I don't remember what I thought was most important. At this point I just shoot for me and share. About the only thing I was never stuck on was film. The end of film for me was my first DSLR in 2008. I spent many years from 1968 to 1998 in a darkroom. I appear to be over that now. Nice memories but that's it.
How many shutters has he broken
I’ve never broken a shutter actually.
if you rarelyshoot series and keed the insides of the camera crazy clean, 600k clicks are possible for even non top cameras like canon 70d
@@sunlbx interesting just wondering since i hear people in the internet talk about that it wont go more than 200-300k and i am on 150k on my z5
Simon, this and other videos of yours have freed me from the self-imposed constraints that you described so well. Photography is even more fun for me as a result. Thanks!
Fantastic!