15 minutes is ideal - except if there is so much that needs to be covered...then 20+ minutes is ok. 30 minutes: way too much time to take, but I do either way, for your videos. :-) When I see your videos come up, I check the duration and decide if I have to hold off watching until later.
10-15 minutes generally covers it. Maybe longer to complete all the salient points of a topic or tutorial. If the subject is interesting, no need for the stopwatch.
It does depend on the type, 15 minutes or so for the average video but anything up to an hour is cool for more in depth stuff, I'd say longer in depth ones should be now and again projects to save yourself on workload and allow you to roll out more content, the shorter videos are easier to digest regularly but it's nice to also have the option of a few longer videos from creators you enjoy for the occasions you might have a little more time on your hands and your mood/attention span is primed for something more substantial
For me a good video consists of consistently quality content with the creator showing their personality without veering away from the purpose of the video. It’s hard for me to watch videos do to my ADHD, but when I am in the mood and stay have the self control to stay focused I can watch a video that I like for an amount of time whether it’s 5 minutes or it’s an hour. I personal love B-Roll with the commentary over as long as it makes sense. I hope this was helpful in anyway.
If you forget the "starting hand" like I do.... then I do the finishing hand(s) with the number of fingers showing the number of exposures taken, so at least I have a way of counting backwards to the start of the sequence.
That's a great tip! I've always done the finishing hand instead of the starting hand...but not done the finger count idea. Thanks for the fantastic idea! 😁👍
I think you can avoid the worry of length by "indexing the content". For example in this video in the description section put a time marker for each hack (I.e. 3:15 anchoring your tripod).
There's a tech conference called "No Fluff, Just Stuff". I think that's a good guideline for RUclips photography videos. I'd rather just cut to the point of an instructional video, and can do without all the sweeping drone shots set to epic music. That's one of the reasons I like your channel, Mark. For the most part, I don't see a lot of that here. IMHO, a good length of a video is whatever the topic requires, without any additional "fluff". I have no problem with longer videos if they stay on topic and hold my attention. The content should dictate the length, not the other way around.
That's a great guideline! Love it! There are some creators I wish would just get to the point of their video. I think Mark does a great job with staying on topic!
Well said!! Getting to the point without the fluff is great! I do enjoy seeing the area where they (Mark or other RUclipsr) are taking the photo, but don’t need b-roll of them walking away etc, would rather see what they are looking at in selecting location/site to shoot.
As much as I'd like to give suggestions or criticism your videos are the perfect balance. I never find myself bored or fast forwarding to parts so any length works for me. Something I LOVE about your channel is you provide information that helps us all, no matter how experienced become better photographers. I've been doing photography for 40 years and yet I still am always learning. RUclips has an overabundance of gear reviews, they do have their place but your channel provides something much more valuable to me. Not all great photographers are good teachers, you check both boxes. Only advice I can give is keep doing what you're already doing, I look forward to every video.
The hand trick is the best. I have wasted a lot of tine going thru focus stacking shots. Creating a separate folder is cumbersome bc i havent made it a custom function. Hand is still quicker. THANK YOU.
I feel if the content is valuable, timing is not that important. You never seem to have a problem making your videos relevant, informative and valuable to watch. Keep it up!
I learned the hard way about the legs in water trick. I bought my first pro tripod recently, an FLM. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the tripod was a perfect height by just extending the top two leg sections, making it more stable than if I extended the bottom sections. Well, I did my first beach shoot, did not extend the bottom sections, got home and found sand all up the inside of the bottom legs, thus requiring a tear down and cleaning. I am in Maui on vacation and shooting beach sunsets every day, I now extend the bottom section and all of that grief is gone.
I’m a fan of the 15-20 minute video length. It seems to provide enough time to get really useful information across to the viewer without overwhelming. It also is a manageable amount of time to fit into a day. It is easier to carve out 15-20 minutes to watch. Thanks for your great videos. They’re always interesting and helpful.
I think 10-15 minutes is great. You consistently put out great quality videos that I like to sit down and take a moment to take in. Keep up the good work.
I'm completely fine with 10:01 and longer - we know your ad rev doubles (in theory) ;) Seriously, it doesn't matter to me. I really enjoy watching a longer video from you from time to time... you have a calming vibe to you that isn't present in another that I'm doing at the moment. Watching your video is a nice relaxing time for me.
Mark I personally think 10-15 mins, like most others here, is the "sweetspot" with longer or shorter videos as required from time to time for specific topics and subjects. No fluff is a good call too - keep it on topic and on point and you'll keep folks attention longer. And did I mention that hand hack? excellent idea. Thank you!
The hand one is great. I literally took a bunch of panos this weekend, got home started processing them and thought I really should take a photo of my hand before and after. It would make this so much easier.
Hey Mark, one thing I'd love to see more of in your videos (and photography channels in general) is a full process from shot set up to end product (including the full post processing) of photos. This would be a longer video, but probably the most instructive type of content one could have.
I abandoned the hand trick for focus stacking. I now use Nikon's focus shift shooting for producing images for focus stacking. It automatically puts images for a focus stack in a separate folder. Very slick application.
15 to 20 minutes or an occasional longer works for me. If there is too much “fluff” or they get off topic I tend to lose interest. Yours are just right.
The hand trick is amazing and simple! The length of this type of video is perfect. For videos about editing like focus stacking I wouldn’t focus on how long they are. I am still learning how to use LR and PS and usually have to pause your videos and google why something isn’t working like you describe. How To videos just need all of the relevant information regardless of length. I love your videos more than any of the other photographer channels I’ve found! Thank you for making them!
There are some excellent suggestions here already. I'm not fond of very short videos... after that I think the suggestion of whatever the topic needs is good. I don't mind B roll at all as it often provides information about location, light etc that I personally enjoy since I've been working since pre-COVID for seven days a week and have not been able to get out to shoot at all. So the B roll and the talk before we get to the subject makes me feel like I have been out shooting to a degree! I think you mix it up well on your videos. I try to watch them all! Sometimes I'm watching to "live through you" to be taken to a location and at others I'm particularly interested in "how too". So I think you set the tone at the beginning and do what it appropriate in your opinion for the topic. Just keep mixing it up Mark... you bring peace, joy and good info to my overworked life! Thank you!
The shower cap idea is smart. I also fold a large plastic bag (the kind used for lining the trash can under the kitchen sink) and stick it in my back pocket. I often shoot at a beach where I bring a camera/lens for birds and another camera for seascapes. The plastic bag provides a clean way to set either camera down while I use the other. It could also be used in case of sudden rain.
No matter the time as long as I feel the video is insightful I’m game for any time because I love hearing from experienced photographers and watching their experience let me see how I would approach how yours would be different and where I can improve my composition and photography skills in general
I love your channel bro. I've only had a camera in my hands for a year now, but creators, like you, really help grow faster than straight up hard knocks.
The hand trick is gold. I have often keep a sheet of paper with me and photographed them for breaks in my photo set. I can't believe I never thought of just using my hand. That is so much simpler! Thanks.
Thanks for sharing ! I've been doing panorama's for some time now and notice editing software always tend to have a lower vertical size on the edges so take extra pictures at the left and right sides of your panorama's so you can crop and keep full height. You can also do a multi-row panorama to have more height. Make sure the rotation base of your tripod is level before you start. Just expreriment before you are actually on location where you need to have it work out all right !
Personally, 10-15 minutes is good. I realize some subjects require longer times, your videos are right to the point so I don’t mind them being a little longer. Great video, i had questions about many of the hacks you mentioned. Thanks again!
You threw some things in here I'd never thought about! Love the hand shots to mark the series of shots. I've had to struggle often trying to figure out what pics went in a series. Enough good stuff to definitely hit "subscribe."
Since you are my favorite, probably any length of time would be enjoyed to the max. However, 15 min. videos can be squeezed into even hectic days. Thank you for taking the time to prepare and share each of your videos.
Hi Mark, helpful tips. Another variation on the hand trick that comes from Scott Kelby is to hold one finger up at the start and two fingers at the end. That way if you have multiple panos together it’s easier to tell the beginning from the end. As far as video length- it depends on the subject but 15-20 is probably best for routine viewing; longer if you’re teaching something engaging. Enjoy your subjects and atmosphere of your videos- very relatable.
for the hand thing for stacking, develop your own system, you know 1 finger means something 2 means something could be focus stack, or pano stitch or just start and end. I also use it for whenever I switch to a manual lens with no EXIF data. That way I know which lens it is and when I am testing certain scene I might even use the fingers to show what aperture I am using for the manual no exif data lens.
Great vid Mark and some useful tips, thank you. I like vids between 10 and 20 minutes, especially on location shoots. Your camera hack vid was great time wise, straight to the point, informative and no fluffy B-roll!
If you ever lose your tree or would like to see a whole grove of similar looking trees, head on to Canada. Golden Ears park, a temperate rain forest near Vancouver. Has a whole grove of trees like that one growing beside and over the trail. What makes them even more magical is they are covered in moss and the weather, being a temperate rain forest, can get moody any time of the year. Oh and the whole area is covered with cathedral looking, steep and green mountains.
For me, video length doesn't matter as long as the information/content is valuable and interesting. Your personality is always engaging, and the info is always useful, so 20 minutes for you is different than 20 minutes for someone else.
Hey Mark, honestly I think the quality should dictate the length. If it's short and sweet that's just and good as long and rich! As far as b-roll and such, I want you to do whatever you feel that week! If it's hectic for you and you want some easy post processing then skip it! If your feeling exceptionally creative the I'd love to see your cinematic touch! On another note, I really enjoyed the way you showed very clear examples of what you were talking about! I myself just got my hands on my first camera this week in rather drab conditions, and that backing off the aperture and lowering the shutter speed trick was something I got a lot of practice with! But clear examples 👌🏼! Awesome man, thanks a lot!
Another very helpful video. Love the KISS approach. Bunge cord hack is brilliant. I would say 15-20 minute video is good. Plus or minus a little but not too much. I think breaking something into two parts is better than doubling the length.
Love videos like these Mark! I think you shared the hand organization in one of your previous videos and I have been using that since then. Bungee cord hack was spot on!
I used a modified version of your hands suggestion on a recent family holiday. I have a second camera that my 2 boys use. In the past they would argue over who took which shot. This time I made them take a picture of their shoes before they shot anything else. When the camera was passed to their sibling they would snap a picture of their shoes and then shoot their images. It was very helpful.
Amazing video and I personally like 20 to 30 minute video but honestly if it's one of your videos in watching it regardless how long it is. Keep up the great work.
WOW ,,,, Mark, this is a superb tutorial. Your story, your detailed information, your passion and knowledge are such a great help to an old Aussie Bloke like me. Guess what I’m going to be concentrating on when this darn rain stops, 3 months of almost non stop rain. Thanks Mark. Great video.
I find a circular polarizer and some of your "dragging the shutter" techniques will virtually always be sufficient to slow my shutter sufficiently for waterfalls.
I understand and appreciate your use of a polarising filter as it certainly works for you. I never use a polariser as for me, it kills the picture. I feel that reflections are part of the lighting upon a scene.
Excellent work, sir! Nothing wasted. I am fine with adding back a little b-roll. The length was fine, but a few minutes of your cinematic work added would be welcome. I think we are all learning about what makes better photos and videos and testing things out on RUclips seems like part of the process.
I'm in agreement with the folks saying 10-15 minutes is good with longer for a more in-depth video. I wanted to thank you for showing the raw files before and after the polarizing. I always forget to do test shots like that to see how my gear works in a given situation, plus my old eyes sometimes can't tell the difference on the camera. Seeing your example is prompting me to start doing that now. I just need to remember to do it.
Great tips, Mark. I appreciate your time. I don't do a lot of this type of shooting, but am curious if when not shooting a panorama with a nodal centered camera, how much trouble do you have in post getting things to line up? thanks.
The hand organizer trick, made my day. So easy, so good. Thx man :) Keep up the good work. Can`t wait till autumn hits here in Norway in a few weeks, I feel it will be really great this year.
Firstly, that is one beautiful tree you have there. It resonates with me as I have a favorite tree close by too that I love to visit on multiple occasions. I hope for you that you can enjoy it for a long time to come. As to the perfect length I don’t have a preference as long as the content is interesting. Advantage of RUclips is that we can pauze the video and continu later. So, thank you for yet another video full of interesting topics/hacks!
I enjoy videos that is 10-12 minutes. Quiet specific but at that range I feel confortable that the video is quality since it isn’t to short but also that it isn’t draged out and to complicated because it’s to long. I also tend to watch the entire video when it is around that length. But all content doesn’t work in 10-12 minutes , not sure if it would hurt or benefit your type of videos if it where 10-12 minutes. Either way your videos are great and honestly my favourites within photography. I feel like I learn a lot whenever I watch and I always find it interesting. Keep it up!
Excellent tips Mark, thank you. 10 - 20 minutes is an ideal length of time, depending on the content. In a spectacular location with great content that stays on track and is holding my attention I am quite happy to watch for 20 minutes (or for a good editing video). Having said that sometimes quality content that is to the point on an important subject can come across really well in 3 - 4 minutes. I do hope that your tree remains for many years to come as clearly it's a tree of inspiration for you. Really appreciate the effort that you go to in all your videos.
You are one of my favourite youtubers because I have learnt so many things from you which helps me to improve my photography skills, this video also gonna be so informative as well, Thanks to make this kind of Video lessons...
These are really great tips! About 10-15 minutes is fine. I honestly don’t even mind a long video. If the content seems interesting, I will watch it. Cheers
Videos like this one of many tips, can last as long as you want. The normal ones where 3 or 4 images are presented explaining how the shots are taken, between 10 and 20 minutes. Congratulations on your work.
Hi Mark, Thanks for sharing these great photo hacks. I prefer 15-20 minute videos. As mentioned in other comments I’ll happily watch longer videos with lots of good info😊. Thanks for all you do for the landscape photography universe!
Great tips. This content helps tremendously. I definitely practice many of these tips and hope to find more 🙂 Your content is valuable and is worth watching no matter the time frame. I'd agree with most people in the comments that 10-15 minutes is perfect
Hi Mark. I prefer anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes. I think the kind of videos you do has to be at least that because of how detailed you are which I appreciate. I've found that I can watch a video that's even an hour long depending on the subject and my interest and how well it's done. BTW I love your work!
20 mins is great for me! Allows all elements of the film, story, information, technicals, marketing etc. to be present. Keep up the good work, and who cares if its 25-30 mins now and again!! :)
The length of the video does not seem particularly important, but if it is more than ~20 minutes then the topic and its delivery need to be spot on, the way yours always are. Glad you added the hand organizer section; that meant I needn't bring it up.
I will happily watch 15-25 mins if the content is in the field as it’s nice to see far-flung places and methods of working. For an office-based one maybe 10-15 or so.
I'm going to have to try the bungee cord idea. Honestly, I don't care how long the video is. If the video is a really good video and it's 2 hours long I'll take breaks here and there and watch the whole thing. Your videos are always great! I still wish you would do a series on composition. Normally, on videos I speed up the video by 1.5 times and it works well for me.
I regularly, and intentionally watch videos that are 15 minutes to 30 minutes or longer when it comes to trying to learn something new that is not inherently easy or wisdom from experience. A lot of times I’ll actually skip videos that are under 5 minutes because I feel like there’s no substance and when I watch them I’m more confused that when I started. Sometimes I’ll find a video about a simple topic and 3 minutes makes sense but, to cram in a lifetime of knowledge about a particular subject in under 5 minutes I think is silly lol Thanks for the videos man you’ve helped me out for sure.
Honestly, it kind of takes care of itself. Usually 10 to 15 mins, plenty of quality content, w some b roll thrown in for a little flex... I like the way your videos have always flowed. Even better, when you're able to get out in the trees. Great work sir, oh and bungee hack is legit. Great idea!!
I really like videos that get to the point quickly: no yelling, no hand waving. To me, length is irrelevant if the content is poignant. Sometimes, videos can be too short especially when dealing with a complex topic. Anywhere between 10 and 15 minutes should suffice. When dealing with more complex subjects, double that to include detailed demonstrations.
Thanks for this video, Mark! I was curious which polarizing filter you were using in this video -- it does not seem to be the same as the filter in your list of recommended gear, and looks to have a more substantial mount than most ring filters (or is on a step-up ring?). Can you share? Thank you!
The length depends on the topic. If it is one of your videos sitting in your room I tend to like shorter versions. You could even bread a couple of them up a little and get 2 or 3 videos out of it. When you are out in the field I like them a bit longer with the details of you setting up and explaining what and why you are doing what you are doing. I don't think they would break up nicely. I like the last tip with the hand, but I usually only take a photo of my hand at the end of the series and hold up the number of fingers to know how far back to go. Great video.
Mark, as a daily youtube watcher, to answer your question. To me it does not matter the length of the video as long as the content is good and not boring. Unless I'm specifically searching for an answer to a problem or question. Then I want the a short answer and quick. But otherwise, I'm watching for entertainment, but also learning at the same time.
Video length kind of depends on how much time I have, but that 10-15 minute range works well. I do enjoy watching you set up your tripod, though! Great stuff, useful tidbits as always.
Great tips. Thanks. Quick question about combining 2 of your hacks: Can I use a polarizer on each image used in a vertical telephoto panorama? Will the effect of the polarizer cause issues when stitching together the individual images? Thanks for all of your great work!
For me I think the length is tied to the content value and how quickly you can get that info across. Good hack on the mini bungee cable, that’s handy to try, thanks Mark!
Very helpful hacks! Apart from dragging the shutter, one can also take multiple images and merge them in Photoshop to get the long exposure effect. Length of video doesn't matter in so far as content and presentation is interesting. A couple of B-Rolls are actually interesting to show the environment you are in. Such good videos. Thanks. Mark!
Depends on the frequency. For weekly videos, I find 15 to 20 minutes ideal. Another channel from Scotland posts bimonthly 45 minute videos, which are also ideal because they do not post every week.
Regarding longer shutter speeds and having no filter: I tend to use the high resolution mode of my camera. In fact the camera will capture several images an stitch it together. Moving water will be blurred out easily. Nowadays several camera manufacturers offer that possibility.
In your opinion, what’s the best duration of a video?
15 minutes is ideal - except if there is so much that needs to be covered...then 20+ minutes is ok. 30 minutes: way too much time to take, but I do either way, for your videos. :-) When I see your videos come up, I check the duration and decide if I have to hold off watching until later.
10-15 minutes generally covers it. Maybe longer to complete all the salient points of a topic or tutorial. If the subject is interesting, no need for the stopwatch.
It does depend on the type, 15 minutes or so for the average video but anything up to an hour is cool for more in depth stuff, I'd say longer in depth ones should be now and again projects to save yourself on workload and allow you to roll out more content, the shorter videos are easier to digest regularly but it's nice to also have the option of a few longer videos from creators you enjoy for the occasions you might have a little more time on your hands and your mood/attention span is primed for something more substantial
25 min for very informative video!!!
For me a good video consists of consistently quality content with the creator showing their personality without veering away from the purpose of the video. It’s hard for me to watch videos do to my ADHD, but when I am in the mood and stay have the self control to stay focused I can watch a video that I like for an amount of time whether it’s 5 minutes or it’s an hour. I personal love B-Roll with the commentary over as long as it makes sense. I hope this was helpful in anyway.
If you forget the "starting hand" like I do.... then I do the finishing hand(s) with the number of fingers showing the number of exposures taken, so at least I have a way of counting backwards to the start of the sequence.
That's a great tip! I've always done the finishing hand instead of the starting hand...but not done the finger count idea. Thanks for the fantastic idea! 😁👍
That's a great idea!
Good idea ! I usually do the hand at the start - no longer ! Cheers.
I think you can avoid the worry of length by "indexing the content". For example in this video in the description section put a time marker for each hack (I.e. 3:15 anchoring your tripod).
There's a tech conference called "No Fluff, Just Stuff". I think that's a good guideline for RUclips photography videos. I'd rather just cut to the point of an instructional video, and can do without all the sweeping drone shots set to epic music. That's one of the reasons I like your channel, Mark. For the most part, I don't see a lot of that here. IMHO, a good length of a video is whatever the topic requires, without any additional "fluff". I have no problem with longer videos if they stay on topic and hold my attention. The content should dictate the length, not the other way around.
Really appreciate the feedback Dave!
That's a great guideline! Love it! There are some creators I wish would just get to the point of their video. I think Mark does a great job with staying on topic!
Well said!! Getting to the point without the fluff is great! I do enjoy seeing the area where they (Mark or other RUclipsr) are taking the photo, but don’t need b-roll of them walking away etc, would rather see what they are looking at in selecting location/site to shoot.
Evening Mark. My video length preference is 10-15 mins & treat us to some longer specials every so often. Enjoy your channel. Cheers Phil.
Appreciate the feedback Phil!
I agree, 10-15 is perfect, even if I have nothing against a longer video 👌
Spot on 10-15 with a feature is perfect
As much as I'd like to give suggestions or criticism your videos are the perfect balance. I never find myself bored or fast forwarding to parts so any length works for me. Something I LOVE about your channel is you provide information that helps us all, no matter how experienced become better photographers. I've been doing photography for 40 years and yet I still am always learning. RUclips has an overabundance of gear reviews, they do have their place but your channel provides something much more valuable to me. Not all great photographers are good teachers, you check both boxes. Only advice I can give is keep doing what you're already doing, I look forward to every video.
The hand trick is the best. I have wasted a lot of tine going thru focus stacking shots. Creating a separate folder is cumbersome bc i havent made it a custom function. Hand is still quicker. THANK YOU.
I feel if the content is valuable, timing is not that important. You never seem to have a problem making your videos relevant, informative and valuable to watch. Keep it up!
I learned the hard way about the legs in water trick. I bought my first pro tripod recently, an FLM. I was pleasantly surprised to find that the tripod was a perfect height by just extending the top two leg sections, making it more stable than if I extended the bottom sections. Well, I did my first beach shoot, did not extend the bottom sections, got home and found sand all up the inside of the bottom legs, thus requiring a tear down and cleaning.
I am in Maui on vacation and shooting beach sunsets every day, I now extend the bottom section and all of that grief is gone.
I’m a fan of the 15-20 minute video length. It seems to provide enough time to get really useful information across to the viewer without overwhelming. It also is a manageable amount of time to fit into a day. It is easier to carve out 15-20 minutes to watch.
Thanks for your great videos. They’re always interesting and helpful.
I think 10-15 minutes is great. You consistently put out great quality videos that I like to sit down and take a moment to take in. Keep up the good work.
I'm completely fine with 10:01 and longer - we know your ad rev doubles (in theory) ;)
Seriously, it doesn't matter to me. I really enjoy watching a longer video from you from time to time... you have a calming vibe to you that isn't present in another that I'm doing at the moment. Watching your video is a nice relaxing time for me.
Mark I personally think 10-15 mins, like most others here, is the "sweetspot" with longer or shorter videos as required from time to time for specific topics and subjects. No fluff is a good call too - keep it on topic and on point and you'll keep folks attention longer. And did I mention that hand hack? excellent idea. Thank you!
The time required is different for different subjects. Thanks for your work.
The B roll and shots of you taking your camera out and setting up so always satisfying though.
The hand one is great. I literally took a bunch of panos this weekend, got home started processing them and thought I really should take a photo of my hand before and after. It would make this so much easier.
Hello Mark, I lke your videos very much. For me, 15-20 minutes is perfect!
Hey Mark, one thing I'd love to see more of in your videos (and photography channels in general) is a full process from shot set up to end product (including the full post processing) of photos. This would be a longer video, but probably the most instructive type of content one could have.
I abandoned the hand trick for focus stacking. I now use Nikon's focus shift shooting for producing images for focus stacking. It automatically puts images for a focus stack in a separate folder. Very slick application.
15 to 20 minutes or an occasional longer works for me. If there is too much “fluff” or they get off topic I tend to lose interest. Yours are just right.
I find the 14-17 minute vids have about the right content without being redundant or repetitive. Keep up the helpful info.
The hand trick is amazing and simple! The length of this type of video is perfect. For videos about editing like focus stacking I wouldn’t focus on how long they are. I am still learning how to use LR and PS and usually have to pause your videos and google why something isn’t working like you describe. How To videos just need all of the relevant information regardless of length. I love your videos more than any of the other photographer channels I’ve found! Thank you for making them!
As long as the content is interesting Mark, length is of no consequence and yours are always interesting!
There are some excellent suggestions here already. I'm not fond of very short videos... after that I think the suggestion of whatever the topic needs is good. I don't mind B roll at all as it often provides information about location, light etc that I personally enjoy since I've been working since pre-COVID for seven days a week and have not been able to get out to shoot at all. So the B roll and the talk before we get to the subject makes me feel like I have been out shooting to a degree! I think you mix it up well on your videos. I try to watch them all! Sometimes I'm watching to "live through you" to be taken to a location and at others I'm particularly interested in "how too". So I think you set the tone at the beginning and do what it appropriate in your opinion for the topic. Just keep mixing it up Mark... you bring peace, joy and good info to my overworked life! Thank you!
The shower cap idea is smart. I also fold a large plastic bag (the kind used for lining the trash can under the kitchen sink) and stick it in my back pocket. I often shoot at a beach where I bring a camera/lens for birds and another camera for seascapes. The plastic bag provides a clean way to set either camera down while I use the other. It could also be used in case of sudden rain.
No matter the time as long as I feel the video is insightful I’m game for any time because I love hearing from experienced photographers and watching their experience let me see how I would approach how yours would be different and where I can improve my composition and photography skills in general
10 minutes of solid content without fluff.
I love your channel bro. I've only had a camera in my hands for a year now, but creators, like you, really help grow faster than straight up hard knocks.
Thanks so much!
The hand trick is gold. I have often keep a sheet of paper with me and photographed them for breaks in my photo set. I can't believe I never thought of just using my hand. That is so much simpler! Thanks.
Thanks for sharing ! I've been doing panorama's for some time now and notice editing software always tend to have a lower vertical size on the edges so take extra pictures at the left and right sides of your panorama's so you can crop and keep full height. You can also do a multi-row panorama to have more height. Make sure the rotation base of your tripod is level before you start. Just expreriment before you are actually on location where you need to have it work out all right !
Personally, 10-15 minutes is good. I realize some subjects require longer times, your videos are right to the point so I don’t mind them being a little longer. Great video, i had questions about many of the hacks you mentioned. Thanks again!
So far the content is informative. Time don't matter. Thanks Mark for tips
For me, 15-20 minutes is perfect!
Also, a deep give into the lightroom differences between color grading and split toning would be cool!
You threw some things in here I'd never thought about! Love the hand shots to mark the series of shots. I've had to struggle often trying to figure out what pics went in a series. Enough good stuff to definitely hit "subscribe."
Since you are my favorite, probably any length of time would be enjoyed to the max. However, 15 min. videos can be squeezed into even hectic days. Thank you for taking the time to prepare and share each of your videos.
Hi Mark, helpful tips. Another variation on the hand trick that comes from Scott Kelby is to hold one finger up at the start and two fingers at the end. That way if you have multiple panos together it’s easier to tell the beginning from the end. As far as video length- it depends on the subject but 15-20 is probably best for routine viewing; longer if you’re teaching something engaging. Enjoy your subjects and atmosphere of your videos- very relatable.
Content is priority, but not more than 12 minutes. Thanks for this week's tips!
Side note:
The texture that medium format captures is absolutely incredible. The first photo you shared is phenominal.
for the hand thing for stacking, develop your own system, you know 1 finger means something 2 means something could be focus stack, or pano stitch or just start and end. I also use it for whenever I switch to a manual lens with no EXIF data. That way I know which lens it is and when I am testing certain scene I might even use the fingers to show what aperture I am using for the manual no exif data lens.
Depending on topic I like the 10-15 minute videos. Always enjoy your weekly videos. Thanks
I don’t mind the length as along as the content is good. I usually watch videos on my lunch break or while on the treadmill. Thanks for making videos.
Hey Mark, I think anything around 15m is a good start 👍🏻
Great vid Mark and some useful tips, thank you. I like vids between 10 and 20 minutes, especially on location shoots. Your camera hack vid was great time wise, straight to the point, informative and no fluffy B-roll!
If you ever lose your tree or would like to see a whole grove of similar looking trees, head on to Canada. Golden Ears park, a temperate rain forest near Vancouver. Has a whole grove of trees like that one growing beside and over the trail. What makes them even more magical is they are covered in moss and the weather, being a temperate rain forest, can get moody any time of the year. Oh and the whole area is covered with cathedral looking, steep and green mountains.
For me, video length doesn't matter as long as the information/content is valuable and interesting. Your personality is always engaging, and the info is always useful, so 20 minutes for you is different than 20 minutes for someone else.
10-15 mins is perfect I feel
Always sticking around to that length...especially for vids like urs
Hey Mark, honestly I think the quality should dictate the length. If it's short and sweet that's just and good as long and rich! As far as b-roll and such, I want you to do whatever you feel that week! If it's hectic for you and you want some easy post processing then skip it! If your feeling exceptionally creative the I'd love to see your cinematic touch!
On another note, I really enjoyed the way you showed very clear examples of what you were talking about! I myself just got my hands on my first camera this week in rather drab conditions, and that backing off the aperture and lowering the shutter speed trick was something I got a lot of practice with! But clear examples 👌🏼! Awesome man, thanks a lot!
Another very helpful video. Love the KISS approach. Bunge cord hack is brilliant. I would say 15-20 minute video is good. Plus or minus a little but not too much. I think breaking something into two parts is better than doubling the length.
Love videos like these Mark! I think you shared the hand organization in one of your previous videos and I have been using that since then.
Bungee cord hack was spot on!
Great to hear you enjoyed it Jackie!
I used a modified version of your hands suggestion on a recent family holiday. I have a second camera that my 2 boys use. In the past they would argue over who took which shot. This time I made them take a picture of their shoes before they shot anything else. When the camera was passed to their sibling they would snap a picture of their shoes and then shoot their images. It was very helpful.
Amazing video and I personally like 20 to 30 minute video but honestly if it's one of your videos in watching it regardless how long it is. Keep up the great work.
WOW ,,,, Mark, this is a superb tutorial. Your story, your detailed information, your passion and knowledge are such a great help to an old Aussie Bloke like me. Guess what I’m going to be concentrating on when this darn rain stops, 3 months of almost non stop rain. Thanks Mark. Great video.
Thanks for the video.
I shoot my index finger before and after my panos for quite a while now. Helps tremendously.
Ohhh great. The Hand Organizer is just what I need👍 Thanks. Please do more of this videos.
I find a circular polarizer and some of your "dragging the shutter" techniques will virtually always be sufficient to slow my shutter sufficiently for waterfalls.
I understand and appreciate your use of a polarising filter as it certainly works for you. I never use a
polariser as for me, it kills the picture. I feel that reflections are part of the lighting upon a scene.
Excellent work, sir! Nothing wasted. I am fine with adding back a little b-roll. The length was fine, but a few minutes of your cinematic work added would be welcome. I think we are all learning about what makes better photos and videos and testing things out on RUclips seems like part of the process.
I'm in agreement with the folks saying 10-15 minutes is good with longer for a more in-depth video. I wanted to thank you for showing the raw files before and after the polarizing. I always forget to do test shots like that to see how my gear works in a given situation, plus my old eyes sometimes can't tell the difference on the camera. Seeing your example is prompting me to start doing that now. I just need to remember to do it.
My preference is 10-20mins with out superfluous "fluff", just sticking to the topic in hand. Thanks for the tips Mark.
Great tips, Mark. I appreciate your time. I don't do a lot of this type of shooting, but am curious if when not shooting a panorama with a nodal centered camera, how much trouble do you have in post getting things to line up? thanks.
I am happy to watch your videos whatever length there are because they are always interesting
Don't think it matters if it's shorter or longer vid. It's like reading a smaller book or bigger book. When it's great it's great. Nice vid man.
The hand organizer trick, made my day. So easy, so good. Thx man :) Keep up the good work. Can`t wait till autumn hits here in Norway in a few weeks, I feel it will be really great this year.
Firstly, that is one beautiful tree you have there. It resonates with me as I have a favorite tree close by too that I love to visit on multiple occasions. I hope for you that you can enjoy it for a long time to come.
As to the perfect length I don’t have a preference as long as the content is interesting. Advantage of RUclips is that we can pauze the video and continu later. So, thank you for yet another video full of interesting topics/hacks!
Wonderful hacks.. I specially loved the bunjee cord, and slow shutter speed hacks because these were the ones troubling me... Thanks
I really enjoy your in-field videos, Mark.
That first tree looks magical
Thanks Javier!
I enjoy videos that is 10-12 minutes. Quiet specific but at that range I feel confortable that the video is quality since it isn’t to short but also that it isn’t draged out and to complicated because it’s to long. I also tend to watch the entire video when it is around that length. But all content doesn’t work in 10-12 minutes , not sure if it would hurt or benefit your type of videos if it where 10-12 minutes. Either way your videos are great and honestly my favourites within photography. I feel like I learn a lot whenever I watch and I always find it interesting. Keep it up!
Really appreciate the feedback Tim!
Pace, content and delivery are the key.
I do a lot of lightening photography, the shower caps are a life saver since you are pretty much in some sort of moisture.
Excellent tips Mark, thank you. 10 - 20 minutes is an ideal length of time, depending on the content. In a spectacular location with great content that stays on track and is holding my attention I am quite happy to watch for 20 minutes (or for a good editing video). Having said that sometimes quality content that is to the point on an important subject can come across really well in 3 - 4 minutes. I do hope that your tree remains for many years to come as clearly it's a tree of inspiration for you. Really appreciate the effort that you go to in all your videos.
You are one of my favourite youtubers because I have learnt so many things from you which helps me to improve my photography skills, this video also gonna be so informative as well, Thanks to make this kind of Video lessons...
These are really great tips! About 10-15 minutes is fine. I honestly don’t even mind a long video. If the content seems interesting, I will watch it. Cheers
Appreciate the feedback Curtis!
Videos like this one of many tips, can last as long as you want. The normal ones where 3 or 4 images are presented explaining how the shots are taken, between 10 and 20 minutes.
Congratulations on your work.
Thanks so much!
I have a favorite tree too!! Content matters to me, not length of the video. And the hand trick is awesome!! Wonderful video as always!
OMG the hanging bag blowing around...I always wondered why people did that...your hack is genuis!
Hi Mark,
Thanks for sharing these great photo hacks. I prefer 15-20 minute videos. As mentioned in other comments I’ll happily watch longer videos with lots of good info😊. Thanks for all you do for the landscape photography universe!
Thanks so much for the feedback Mark!
Great tips. This content helps tremendously. I definitely practice many of these tips and hope to find more 🙂 Your content is valuable and is worth watching no matter the time frame. I'd agree with most people in the comments that 10-15 minutes is perfect
Hi Mark. I prefer anywhere between 15 and 20 minutes. I think the kind of videos you do has to be at least that because of how detailed you are which I appreciate. I've found that I can watch a video that's even an hour long depending on the subject and my interest and how well it's done. BTW I love your work!
20 mins is great for me! Allows all elements of the film, story, information, technicals, marketing etc. to be present. Keep up the good work, and who cares if its 25-30 mins now and again!! :)
The length of the video does not seem particularly important, but if it is more than ~20 minutes then the topic and its delivery need to be spot on, the way yours always are. Glad you added the hand organizer section; that meant I needn't bring it up.
I will happily watch 15-25 mins if the content is in the field as it’s nice to see far-flung places and methods of working. For an office-based one maybe 10-15 or so.
I'm going to have to try the bungee cord idea. Honestly, I don't care how long the video is. If the video is a really good video and it's 2 hours long I'll take breaks here and there and watch the whole thing. Your videos are always great! I still wish you would do a series on composition. Normally, on videos I speed up the video by 1.5 times and it works well for me.
I regularly, and intentionally watch videos that are 15 minutes to 30 minutes or longer when it comes to trying to learn something new that is not inherently easy or wisdom from experience. A lot of times I’ll actually skip videos that are under 5 minutes because I feel like there’s no substance and when I watch them I’m more confused that when I started. Sometimes I’ll find a video about a simple topic and 3 minutes makes sense but, to cram in a lifetime of knowledge about a particular subject in under 5 minutes I think is silly lol
Thanks for the videos man you’ve helped me out for sure.
For your vertical - what is the camera mount you are using? Also I need to replace my tripod- what do you recommend?
Thanks in Advanced.
Honestly, it kind of takes care of itself. Usually 10 to 15 mins, plenty of quality content, w some b roll thrown in for a little flex... I like the way your videos have always flowed. Even better, when you're able to get out in the trees. Great work sir, oh and bungee hack is legit. Great idea!!
Appreciate the feedback Karl! Yes bungee for the win!
I really like videos that get to the point quickly: no yelling, no hand waving. To me, length is irrelevant if the content is poignant. Sometimes, videos can be too short especially when dealing with a complex topic. Anywhere between 10 and 15 minutes should suffice. When dealing with more complex subjects, double that to include detailed demonstrations.
Thanks for this video, Mark! I was curious which polarizing filter you were using in this video -- it does not seem to be the same as the filter in your list of recommended gear, and looks to have a more substantial mount than most ring filters (or is on a step-up ring?). Can you share? Thank you!
The length depends on the topic. If it is one of your videos sitting in your room I tend to like shorter versions. You could even bread a couple of them up a little and get 2 or 3 videos out of it. When you are out in the field I like them a bit longer with the details of you setting up and explaining what and why you are doing what you are doing. I don't think they would break up nicely. I like the last tip with the hand, but I usually only take a photo of my hand at the end of the series and hold up the number of fingers to know how far back to go.
Great video.
Mark, as a daily youtube watcher, to answer your question. To me it does not matter the length of the video as long as the content is good and not boring. Unless I'm specifically searching for an answer to a problem or question. Then I want the a short answer and quick. But otherwise, I'm watching for entertainment, but also learning at the same time.
Video length kind of depends on how much time I have, but that 10-15 minute range works well. I do enjoy watching you set up your tripod, though! Great stuff, useful tidbits as always.
Very nice tips which got me thinking. Thank you mark.
Great tips. Thanks. Quick question about combining 2 of your hacks: Can I use a polarizer on each image used in a vertical telephoto panorama? Will the effect of the polarizer cause issues when stitching together the individual images? Thanks for all of your great work!
For me I think the length is tied to the content value and how quickly you can get that info across. Good hack on the mini bungee cable, that’s handy to try, thanks Mark!
Very helpful hacks! Apart from dragging the shutter, one can also take multiple images and merge them in Photoshop to get the long exposure effect. Length of video doesn't matter in so far as content and presentation is interesting. A couple of B-Rolls are actually interesting to show the environment you are in. Such good videos. Thanks. Mark!
Depends on the frequency. For weekly videos, I find 15 to 20 minutes ideal. Another channel from Scotland posts bimonthly 45 minute videos, which are also ideal because they do not post every week.
Great hacks Mark, love the bungee cord, how simple!
7-12 min is fine for one man show. I'd like to see more photographs supporting the talking in any lansdcape video.
After three month I'm able to follow again you videos. Really interesting and a fantastic location. Thanks !
Regarding longer shutter speeds and having no filter: I tend to use the high resolution mode of my camera. In fact the camera will capture several images an stitch it together. Moving water will be blurred out easily. Nowadays several camera manufacturers offer that possibility.
Great tips, as always! Thanks for sharing 😉