Too much sense, man. You make TOO MUCH SENSE and my head is going to explode now... So great to hear somebody call it as it is and not fall for the consumerism economy. Well done, Adam! reminding us how to keep our priorities straight. 🙏
Well spoken. I recently grabbed my old APS-C DSLR and went outside to shoot with it. It was a rewarding experience, because it was not about gear and a presumably better technical image, but about the subjects of my interest and the joy of capturing them.
Landscape is one niche where you can get by without latest equipment. Nothing to autofocus, no need for fast bursts or precapture, no need for silent shutter, each session isn’t 5k shots, no supertelephotos needed, low light can be compensated by stacking or long shutter speeds etc. It is important to remember that this is not true for many other types of photography, where the latest cameras not only make life easier but also in many ways even enable it. As sports photographer in often low light environments, mirrorless has been lifesaver. I welcome each advancement in AF, shutter speed, stabilization, faster lenses, and so on. Loved the video anyways! Refreshing to see this vs dozen sponsored gear ads/content.
Absolutely. It’s important to have the right tool for the job. Although, as time moves on, those upgrade gains become increasingly marginal. Really appreciate your time and would definitely be needing a faster lens if I was shooting some sports….which I may be doing soon!!
@ I agree. I don’t really know what else even sports shooters need beyond A9iii/R1/R5mk2/Z9 have today. No issues with rolling shutter, AF is awesome, precapture exists, insane burst speeds etc. On the lenses, we need to really invent something new to squeeze any more low light capabilities from them. Beyond incremental advances, we need design/material breakthru there. Good luck shooting sports! It is so much fun, enjoy!
It is good to upgrade even for landscape, for example only olympus and lumix i think they have star autofocus, when i had dslr i was putting the lens blindly on infinity or struggling to guess when a star is the smallest in liveview
Yep. I'm a motorsports photographer and gear matters a lot in this field. Yet for some other types of photography? Not that important. So yes, it's not really black and white. edit: I don't care about megapixels, I do care about fast accurate autofocus.
@@kadinaatorI don't think that motorsports need the latest and greatest. I do that since years with the Sony A-mount gear. I understand though that the newest Sony E-mount cameras from the A9 mark 1 did superseded the A99ii for sport photography (but 24mpx ff sensor vs 42mpx ff sensor still is nonsense to me)
Totally agree with you on your analysis on the profit/shareholder concept driving the industry(ies) to keep encouraging us to consume, versus what’s important in life. Thank you.
Wise words Adam. I'm still using my 5D M4 and 5d SR, and have no reason or inclination to change these. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. Kind regards, Charles.
I really appreciate that you are questioning the "upgrade cycle" that permeates every aspect of our consumer-driven lives. It's taboo to even talk about it, especially in the US where credit card debt has reached 1.5 Trillion dollars. I tend to be a Cornucopian, but it's still very depressing. I'll continue to just learn how to compose my photos better.
Very refreshing and the reason I’m still subscribed. I recently unsubscribe to a number of other RUclips photography channels as they all started using ‘gifted’ Hasselblad cameras. Totally out of touch with reality and whores to the advertising budget of DJI.
Ι've also started unsubscribing from YT channels that are mostly about gear. Getting free stuff and money by trying to empty my wallet is not my cup of tea! For landscapes I'm pretty happy with my 8-12 year old dslrs and the ultra cheap lens combo I managed to collect from people that were convinced they needed the upgrade. Fair play and good for them. And lucky me!
As a landscape photographer, it's brain dead simple: go on MPB or KEH, buy a 5DsR or Z7 for about USD1,000 or less, add the two lenses you need and be done with it.
FF cameras are not even required for that. I've used a Nikon D7200 and a Sigma 18-35 f1.8. fantastic results ! This lens is one of the best lenses I've ever used for landscape photography.
@ EF Lena options Beat Nikon DSLR options. Z Mount also Beats the DSLR options. That 24-120mm S is a no brainer. Buying a Z7 just for that lens makes sense I think. But hey, the D850 is no slouch!
I love my R5... in Iceland right now, working it out !! I had the 5DmIV just before too... the larger sensor and stepped up autofocus (eye detect) sold me on the R5. It's all I never need.
Have been following you since the beginning and you are my inspiration to KISS it, I think too many photogs want to emulate the pros they see on u tube who promote the latest and greatest gear. Have been very happy with my obsolete Canon 5D MKll/ 7DMKll combo and older EF lenses. Keep up the inspiring work !
I been watching camera videos now for 5 years religiously, and today is the first time your channel has ever came up on my feed, and I am glad this video is made just for me. As I have g.s.s. Thanks
Love your viewpoint! I put off upgrading for quite a long while! Eventually I was able to buy a Nikon Z8 and going mirrorless has been a great experience. I shoot many genres and I find that the technology is helpful. Saying that, I’m sure I’ll shoot this camera until she dies! Thanks for taking me along!
I had a cart full of gear on mpb that I was humming and hawing over for some time. I was trading in my DJI air 3, a few lenses and my trusty and much loved canon 6D that has served me very well indeed. After watching this, I’ve decided that I’d be very much better off sticking with what I have until that falls apart and considering the abuse that 6D has taken it’s showing no signs of it yet. Thanks for that, you’ve saved me fortune.
I was in the same boat as your good self, using the Canon MK4 for 8years almost every day. It is still working. I finally came up with a sensible plan after a year of research. I very recently I bought a second hand R5 for £2500 only 1000 shutter clicks on it. And I just use the EF to RF canon adapter and still use my EF Glass. And my reason for upgrading was the shutter speed dial was playing up a wee bit. Now that I use the R5 I finally enjoy a tilt screen and EVF when working in the dark or using filters. Great to see a fellow wise and honest photographer.
I photographed a full wedding with a Ricoh GR. You would never know. They loved the pictures and recommended ne to other couples. You don't need a load of gear.
Erm, I do love a new bit of gear! But... I agree with spending the money on boots, weather gear and a van. I think the van has turned out to be one of my best purchases, even with its initial problems. I wont mention the new Voigtlander lens no no. Excellent video! And who's this chap popping up at the end 😂 One of the best days of this year!
It's so true. I use 7 year old Sony A7RIII's for my professional work and they produce amazing images that have been used to create 2m wide posters which look great. I have, though, succumbed to the lure of a shiny new system in the shape of the Fujifilm XT5 which is great. Its biggest positive for me is that it's small and discreet and feels good in my hands. As you say all cameras are good enough these days so you can look to other aspects such as size and weight. I think we just love new stuff though, so it's always a challenge to resist the ongoing barrage of new features. How did people even take photos 15 years ago!! 😂
This is why I love watching Adam, he still uses a (Canon) DSLR while other photography RUclips channel folk have moved to mirrorless, expensive cameras, expensive lenses, which is fine but we can't all afford them or even have them gifted to us. Well said Adam and a great philosophy for life!
It was going well up to the moment you shared your views on the DJI Action 4. It’s been one of the best videos cams I’ve owned, more reliable than the Go Pro! On another note, changing to mirrorless from the 5D3 to my R6 has been a revelation and changed the way I shoot ie no tripod and 99% handheld. Your style and preference to shoot photography is key. Great content Adam
Yeah, i recall you saying you'd given up the tripod. It's a good point though and it's definitely about having the right tool for the job. Unless its the Action 4.....that'll never be right!!🤣
Great video! I am still getting great images from a twenty year old 5MP bridge camera! I can print them to A3 for displaying around the house (I’ve no space for anything bigger). Also I have 4 other cameras, all bought used over the years and I couldn’t be happier! But if people have wads of spare cash, go for it! Why not? But I for one are not tempted.
As a purely hobbyist (not even gonna call myself a photographer just a dude with a decent camera), the main reason to upgrade was size & weight plus finding reasonably priced good quality lenses. I shot D90 / 18-200 for long enough but found I like re-discovering photos I took on old trips in Lightroom and on a newer 4k monitor they didn't look good at all. Eventually went to a D850, but for travel I was stuck with a 35mm as the zoom ranges for full frame were either weird or expensive or heavy (850+24-70 weighs almost 2Kg) or not-great quality. Now I can take a Z7ii on holiday with 14-30 plus 24-70 f/4 and come back with amazingly sharp photos using two lenses that weigh significantly less the one F-Mount one.
Thank you for this.. I've been through a major cash spend trying to find the "next thing" for my video work. I had some needs that were not being met and projects that needed more than I could do with my current gear so I needed to invest. I decided to go with pre-owned GH5 MKIIs because they were better than I needed and a fraction of new kit. Also, then it came down to learning that it's far more about the glass than the sensor. Now I know and have invested in some pro lenses and man what a difference. More folks need to talk about real advantages vs the next shiny that's really not applicable to 90% of the folks out there. Again, thanks for this video. Cheers Rick
Great commentary. As a hobbyist I have always used entry level camera bodies because that is what I could afford. I did invest in better quality lenses, all used as that is what I could afford. I recently bumped into another photographer in my area that has all the latest gear. He was so busy telling me how great his gear was that he missed an amazing sunset. We have since compared some prints from a photo session we were both at and he admitted his did not have the same outcome as mine and could not understand it. I suggested he spend time learning his craft rather than buying more gear. Apparently I offended him as he won't speak with me anymore. One of the reasons your channel is so precious is due the fact you don't push gear. Cheers!!!
Depends on your output needs, but also type of photography. Action is probably the main reason for upgrading, with pre-capture, FPS and Auto Focus really help you nail the shot.
The RUclips algorithm, in its infinite wisdom, slipped this video under my nose this morning. In this age of artificial intelligence, a healthy dose of plain old horse sense is most welcome and greatly appreciated. I continue to depend on my venerable D850 while teetering on the brink of the F to Z transition. I created a spreadsheet detailing the transition plan, what would be sold and what would be purchased. Now I’m reevaluating two questions: what functionality that I really need will be gained at what price, and to what extent is the motivation just keeping up with the crowd?
I always appreciate guys like you who squeeze the most out of their gear. I think its really ridiculous that I spent soo much on new cameras for photography only to edit them to look more like "film" and the older DSLRs have horrible ibis/lenses/focus that add all the "grit" that we are all trying to replicate and add back into our photos. For video, I cant disagree enough, the newer technology makes it almost brainless to operate and allows me to focus more on composition and lighting.
From a business perspective, it's all about what the client is happy with...and about what they know. Irrespective, that 'old' 5D is, and will be for many years, a beast!
Love the last few sentences Adam - couldn't agree more. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. One of my cameras is about 16 years old. I only upgraded because one of the kids broke a lens and it wasn't easy to find a replacement. Not a mainstream camera. So upgraded with second hand gear and have continued to enjoy getting out into nature to enjoy the beauty and connections with the world around me.
Hi Adam, your videos always inspire me to get out and shoot more and this one is going to be saved in my Watch again and Favourites folders, well done Derek
I'm still using an old 1DXi + quality lenses, and it handles absolutely anything you throw at it-except for silent shooting at weddings or video work. For pure photography, it’s all you really need. No client has ever complained about the image quality I’ve delivered. And if it ever breaks (a big if), you can easily pick up a second-hand 1DX for next to nothing these days.
I shoot with a canon 90D and my pictures are good enough, so... Sometimes we can have the illusion that our pictures will be better with new gear. New gear, new toy, and we love that, aren't we still like children? Yes. I often remind me Koci Hernandez shooting with an I-phone 4 and doing the process into it. I will never forget this lesson. Thanks, Adam.
I had an RX1 years ago. After a few years of use I traded it in on some new equipment. I've always regretted that decision. The RX1 was one of the best cameras I have ever owned.
Adam My cameras are all Pentax DSLR cameras I bought my first Pentax DSLR in 2005 a Pentax *istDL 6 megapixel CCD Sony sensor camera I still use it today as I've never had any problems with the camera and it uses AA batteries. In 2006 I bought my son a Pentax K100D another 6 megapixel camera. In 2015 I upgraded to a Pentax K50 a 16 megapixel weather sealed camera. In 2018 I have my son the Pentax K50 and I upgraded to a Pentax K70 a 24 megapixel camera with a flip screen. In 2020 my Pentax K70 had Apature block failure so I bought a used Pentax K3-11 that does not have Apature block problems and is Pentax top ASP-C camera to replace the K70. My son sent the K70 camera to a repair facility in Oregon that specializes in Pentax Apature block repair and he had the camera fixed for $100.00 and it works fine now Nobody cares what camera you shot the pictures on they only care about the end results and a DSLR camera for most applications is just as good as a mirrorless camera in taking pictures
Pentax is a good choice and it's funny how many times people have told us they are a dead brand. My first was a K-r, and then I picked up a K-30 (firmware upgrade made it a K-50 and added PLM lens support). I have my eye on a K-S2, which I think is about as much DSLR as I'll ever need. They have such lovely lenses too. Love the handling, the RAW image quality and those special Pentax colours. The Pentax philosophy has always been to deliver features that matter, coupled with a polished user experience. Buttons, control wheels all the in right place, super comfortable grips, the easiest lens change experience in any system ever, and the cleanest and most intuitive menus. IBIS since 2006! Weather sealing in entry level bodies! 100% viewfinder coverage! I could go on...
I couldn't agree more. I did make a jump from the Canon 5D IV to the R5 for very tangible reasons. Slightly lighter and smaller body and lenses, more focus aids, and the articulating LCD screen. Does it take a better photo? Not really. But all the things I listed sure help me as an older photographer moving into my golden years. If I were younger, I would still be using the 5D IV. I learned long ago to stop spending money on new gear without real justification.
Thank you very much for your time spend to put us back on the right path. Indeed, everything you said it is so true. Today it is about camera instead of actual outcome. Today it is about marketing, money and less about creativity, creation. You are one of few who care about the art of photography without thinking about profit. Any camera is good enough as we, the photographers, know how to create. Thank you so much for your work. Thank you.
I bought a second 5D Mark IV in July 2024, after I had dropped my first 5D IV onto onto wet ground. My first one did successfully dry-out, and it is good to now have a spare.
Absolutely spot on! I brought a lumix s5 as my entry point to full frame photography a few years ago - it’s not got the best features but it takes great images and does exactly what I need it to do 👍
Totally agree with you. The best investment is not to buy a new camera but to know deep every function of the camera you own. I've a Canon 6d mk2, five years together and still it is a solid companion of my photography journey. If I've some extra money I prefer to buy another good quality lens (used of course, from a secure shop that offer two years of warranty) to experiment a different view and expand my creativity. Thanks Adam !
The best investment is getting out with your camera and taking photos. I don`t give a shit what my camera can do, never shot a better picture with that. Practice makes perfect, learning what your camera can do is often useless.
انا اتفق معك في كل كلمة قلتها . وانا واحد من الناس الذين يطبق هذه القاعدة . لا انفق المال على شيء لا يضيف لي اي تقدم او فائدة . لذلك مازلت استخدم 3 كاميرات الديجيتال العتيقة بالاضافة الى بعض كاميرات الفيلم العتيقة ايضا والعدسات الممتازة . هذا كل ما احتاجة لانني في مجرد سوى هاوي وعاشق للتصوير ولست محترفا ولكن الامر قد يبدو مختلفا لبعض المصورين الذين يحتاجون الجديد باستمرار خصوصا سرعة الغالق والتركيز البؤري التلقائي ..
I find it quite remarkable that people fall for the marketing. The latest and greatest is soon to become last years model. And you know what? It still works.
I went to an exposition of Elliot Erwitt today. Half of the pictures were what would one consider very unsharp these days. But man, what a freaking good images they all are ! They made my hair stand up. The so called professional photographers on youtube don’t come even near with all there fancy material and unnatural looking photographs.
Finally someone with the same outlook on life and sustainability as me. As a non professional photographer I buy everything when it’s a few years old and I’ve only just upgraded my Nikon D200 to.a D850. I’m not a huge fan of mirrorless as it’s just not the same experience as having a proper viewfinder. Rather than buying a new lens, I spent the money on a three week trip to Japan!
You make a coherent argument, and what you say applies very well to someone who shoots mainly stationary objects, and rarely has to shoot handheld. That's not me -- I often must shoot handheld and I find the added expense of switching from the Canon 5D4 to the Canon R5 very well worth it. I get far more keepers with the R5 when I must shoot handheld, because the AF in the R5 is noticeably superior to that of the 5D4. It just grabs focus, dependably. Also, the in-body stabilization really helps, esp when used with a stabilized lens. And then there's the elephant in the room: being able to look in the viewfinder and see exactly the image you will get at your current settings! It's fantastic -- allowing me to much more quickly adjust my settings in changing conditions. The R5 electronic viewfinder is really high quality, and I never feel that I'm looking into a pale digital imitation of reality. The EOS R viewfinder is also quite good. ALSO, I love the R5's ability to give you a 1.6 crop, and therefore a 60% increase in telephoto reach. I often take the 2 hour ferry ride from Vancouver Island to mainland BC, I regularly must deal with great distances. When you have 45 megapixels, your 1.6 crop still yields close to 20 mpx. AND, I must say, I do like the R5 RAW files. The 5D4's are very good, but I find the R5's are better. There's more depth and robustness to them. Image quality at higher ISO's is significantly better. I'm not running the 5D4 down -- it's an excellent, dependable, high-end camera. But the improvements in the R5 definitely make life easier for the photographer with varied needs, yields more keepers. For this kind of photographer, it is simply a better tool. I do appreciate your honest opinions and well-presented, very informative videos, Adam.
One thing I've learned is that the only thing that can really make me better at anything is doing that thing -- a lot. I still like buying gear, but I almost never buy new. My most recent camera purchases (in 2024) were a Nikon D40X (c. 2007, 10mp CCD) and a Lumix G5 (c. 2012, 16mp). Both are fun cameras that can take better pictures than I can compose. But I'm getting better.
There are many improvements which can be made, but it seems that camera companies are either bad at collecting and addressing user feedback, and/or they lack creativity. I’m using. A Nikon D750, which is 2014 technology. I’ve found little reason to upgrade to anything newer. Image quality is still superb. Having security features, like anti-theft features of IPhones through software, would be useful. Also, having upgraded sensors would be nice. I’d update if the newest D750 successor had 50MP, but they don’t. They’ve all been stuck at 25MP for the last 12 years, unless you want to pay 3-4K. I personally love the DSLR. I can see why mirrorless has its advantages, but I love the clarity of an optical viewfinder, not the miniaturized digital screen of a mirrorless faux viewfinder. Practically, a DSLR can be made to behave like a mirrorless camera when in live view anyway. Battery life is also exceptional with DSLR.
All makes sense, I have a Canon 6D2 and it still does the job. I don't think I need a newer Camera unless the prices come down somewhat. Love your Work !
Just the video I needed. I was thinking of upgrading my 8 year old Sony a6000 but with hours and hours of research realized the image quality of the modern cameras are no better. Plus it weighs only 12 oz. You saved me thousands. Now what else can I spend that money on?
I agree with your sentiments! Photography is more important than cameras ….. following on from your comments about printing, I have really enjoyed pulling together photo books….. it is a project that requires focus and enables us to present a larger body of work together. The per image cost of printing a photo book is very reasonable. I’m currently working to build a couple of bodies of work that I intend to print via books … may take another year or so, but will be well worth it
I got quite used to not upgrading when I bought my OM-1. I kept it for years as my sole camera and still have it. The electronic film camera age totally passed me by, and I didn't miss it at all. However, when I started with digital I was rapidly suckered into the upgrade cycle, until I reached full frame with a Canon 5Dii and a Nikon D600. Both of them keep me quite happy and I've no intention of upgrading, unless some utterly irresistible deal crops up. The largest I ever print is A4 size, and even my ancient APS-C digibodies will do that.
It’s definitely a nice evolution. Although I’d love to hear from sports or wildlife photographers about how many shots they’ve missed due to a rolling shutter. If it’s enough to justify an upgrade, then fair enough.
One of your best video essays Adam! The camera market has trended to video where everyone's so called flagship camera is essentially a video camera that also allows you to shoot stills. They seem to be very good for fast action, moving object photography, but no one seems to tout what you mentioned, excellent dynamics range, low noise at higher iso's, etc. I went from a 5Ds to a R5 and at the end of the day the images were of the same quality. I do enjoy and prefer the the feel and handling of the R5 which is superior. That said I'm not upgrading anytime soon as these hybrid cameras are not for me.
You are absolutely correct, however, every time I hear one of the photographers I follow talking about GAS, I am reminded of my dangerous self, and let me explain, I have been a computer and software professional since the dawn of the computers, well almost😁, at least since the time we have to create code on punched cards that them will be interpreted by a computer occupying a whole floor in building and I am still at it, which has meant an constantly update on skills and technology and adaptation over more than 40 years, this is a long way to explain that the need for changes and chasing new technology, now in the camera world is prevalent and I need to control myself. That being said, since I started back in photography I have own 2 systems, I started with a Canon 90, 50mm and 70-200 mm my intent is to go outside and take the land and sea scapes so I quickly found the equipment to be heavy and dragged me to shorter hikes and less time outside so, after a careful study of options and where I wanted to be in my photography adventure I decided for a fuji X system, specifically the X-H2 and I own a 80mm macro, a 56mm and a 16-55mm, which not only cut the weight almost in half but the change was based on what is the best I can get with the money I have, I was able to pay for more than half of my new system with the money I've got from selling my Canon system. My next investment would be a printer, I have been considering it as my photography is getting better, so I think 🤣, and have to admit that between you and Keith Cooper have me inspired and leaning towards it, aside from the fact that the process of learning how to print seems a good challenge to tackle. Sorry for the long story, I always appreciate your insides and knowledge. P.S. I have to stay away from the Hasselblad site 👹😵💫🤣🤣🤣
Not a long story but similar to my own, oh Ill have nightmares about punched cards and progamming using tape, not quite all floor computers, but about time when IBM brought the first desktop out, you had to book time to use servers
@@andirutherford2615 Whew! I thought I was old but I began writing software on the IBM 8086, swapping 5 1/4 disks to use a word processor or spreadsheet . I did begin my photo journey with the Canon AE-1......
Absolutely spot on the upgrade cycle for new is totally new "upgrades" I basically buy used always on my Olympus equipment for wildlife photography. For family grandchildren shots a top end smartphone is sadly pretty good TBH that's why you have me as a subscriber,, I don't do much landscape photography but you always speak sense!
Seems to me the answer to your conundrum might be to set a budget. In business, this would become a key component of your managed cash flow. Then you'd buy what you need for the next project when you need it - new or used. You would also not be able to start that project until the capacity is there'd your ready to generate a return.
I've been a working professional for 20 years or thereabouts (portraits, headshots, brand photos, mainly but I've done a little bit of everything other than sports). For the first 10 years, I used *one* camera (with a backup body just in case). I now use a Z8 and a D750. I bought the D750 in 2015 and I still use it. I don't plan on 'upgrading' unless something bad happens. When I first started out I used to get dejected because there were amateur gear hoarders that had kit worth 5 times what I had. I now applaud them for supporting photographers by proxy. Some camera companies were at serious risk of going under. Some still are. Your video will make little difference to those, and I'm glad it will. Nice video regardless!
Great vid again! Really refreshing and so practical. Because imagine if you’d bought into a brand new mirrorless system with new lenses, etc.., and then your computer, hard drive & monitor broke! But… I do need to ask some advice and would appreciate your view. I’m relatively new to photography, so bought an APS-C DSLR system second hand with a few of the best complementary lenses I could get/afford. I’ve had some really good results with the landscape genre and recently joined a camera club to get some more experience. Since then, I’ve joined some interest groups within the club and I’m seeing the limitations of relatively poor autofocus & non-weatherproofing but I don’t want to spend a fortune either! The 24MP resolution is fine, but I realise I’d have to change the whole system to address those issues. Love to have your thoughts, or a camera & lenses which you think would be worth consideration.
Stick with what you have. How did photographers in the past manage, yet we love their work don’t we? Being in a club and seeing what other gear people have can be a temptation. I would say work on and improve your skills first, then when you have reached a good level, consider getting a better camera, only if you can easily afford it that is. Consider used, for that is how I buy all my gear.
@ I agree on all you have said. Would need to spend £2k-£3k to get what I need, but definitely doesn’t feel like the right thing to do. Another option would be to spend just £500 on a used Nikon D500 (I have a D5600) to get great autofocus and weatherproofing on the camera at least, and I can still use the same lenses.
You are a welcome exception amongst many photographers on You Tube, who seem to "update' or change cameras every year. I have been shooting with my Nikon D810 since March 2015 and have no reason to buy a new camera yet. Although it's getting more tempting to get a smaller mirrorless camera for lighter travel.
In 2017 I jumped to full frame with a nikon D810. A great camera that I’ve used for all sorts of photography. This summer I hired a z8 to checkout it’s handling for action photography which I’ve been doing a lot recently. I was blown away by its handling - less impressed by battery life. In the end I took the plunge and bought one. This could well be the last camera I buy :)
The latest gear won't improve your photography that much, especially landscape photography, wildlife and birding is different tho tbf. The difference in IQ between FF, APSC and MFT is tiny now, a good photo on any format is a good photo. I shoot APSC and no-one can ever tell if it's FF or not, whether it be printed or on a screen.
If your subject doesn’t move no need to upgrade. If you shoot wildlife and are used to your DSLR getting confused by birds flying over a busy background you should be excited about the abilities of the newer cameras! 🤷♂️ Going from a 7DII and a 5DII to an R5 using adapted EF lenses I’m stunned by how well it tracks a bird across a background using its eye as the target! 🤯
I feel the same way. I photograph landscape and wildlife. I have yet to see a video that convinced my that my D850 is a limitation... and I don't personally want a camera that removes the need for all skill. Then again I also shoot film...
Im thinking of down grading my camera after up grading it because all the extra resolution and updated raw file types means I now need to upgrade my computer and my software (photoshop) which is not very cost effective.
I downgraded from FF to MFT. I can barely see a difference in the pictures. But my whole gear weighs just a fraction of the old and I can easily carry it for hours.
Brilliant video. The only video worth watching about gear, with excellent life advice. I'm in the same boat, I won't spend unless I need to, not want to. I have also lost patience with all the annoying hype videos I get recommended from camera channels. Everything new, makes the " professional " must have gear to survive and be competitive. What absolute tripe. Never ending cycle.
Mate I Shoot with a 80d and one of my favourite lenses is like one you use alot the 17- 40mm f4. I love it plus I'm not that worried about dropping it as much as I would using the R series gear. Which I think could hold me back in the outdoors.
Ahhh the window shopping of the potential upgrade is definitely fun! I'm a bit hard on my cameras, so I wait til I break it which is about every 3-4 years 😂
Nice one but please let everybody Upgrade as they wish. This gives me plenty of opportunity to snatch some great deals on used top notch glass and camera bodies. I e.g. bought a D810 and some fast zooms a while ago for a reasonable price. It serves me very well for ICM and landscape due to the low iso.
I love your thinking and absolutely agree with you. The way I put it, if someone has a few thousand to spend and wants to take better photos, what should they do? 1) buy new gear, or 2) spend it on trips to great locations (not necessarily at the other side of the world). For the fast majority of people, I'm convinced it's hands down option 2. Even those who have really bad gear that limits them (it *is* possible, though not common) could upgrade to not-the-latest version of a good camera and a decent lens, and have some left to travel. Beyond the pictures they come back with, the experience's memories would last forever, while the "having a new fancy camera" feeling will be quickly forgotten
Brilliant video. I’m in a similar position to you with regards to my iMac has just gone past its sell by date. Would you be able to share what set up you went for for photo editing
Hi Adam .. thanks for another great from the heart blog. The times I’m out with my photography friends like minded people who just get it … gear doesn’t give you experiences like that. Yes it’s about photography but the people the places and shared times complete the deal.😊👍.. K - New Zealand
Too much sense, man. You make TOO MUCH SENSE and my head is going to explode now... So great to hear somebody call it as it is and not fall for the consumerism economy. Well done, Adam! reminding us how to keep our priorities straight. 🙏
Well spoken. I recently grabbed my old APS-C DSLR and went outside to shoot with it. It was a rewarding experience, because it was not about gear and a presumably better technical image, but about the subjects of my interest and the joy of capturing them.
Landscape is one niche where you can get by without latest equipment. Nothing to autofocus, no need for fast bursts or precapture, no need for silent shutter, each session isn’t 5k shots, no supertelephotos needed, low light can be compensated by stacking or long shutter speeds etc. It is important to remember that this is not true for many other types of photography, where the latest cameras not only make life easier but also in many ways even enable it.
As sports photographer in often low light environments, mirrorless has been lifesaver. I welcome each advancement in AF, shutter speed, stabilization, faster lenses, and so on.
Loved the video anyways! Refreshing to see this vs dozen sponsored gear ads/content.
Absolutely. It’s important to have the right tool for the job.
Although, as time moves on, those upgrade gains become increasingly marginal.
Really appreciate your time and would definitely be needing a faster lens if I was shooting some sports….which I may be doing soon!!
@ I agree. I don’t really know what else even sports shooters need beyond A9iii/R1/R5mk2/Z9 have today. No issues with rolling shutter, AF is awesome, precapture exists, insane burst speeds etc.
On the lenses, we need to really invent something new to squeeze any more low light capabilities from them. Beyond incremental advances, we need design/material breakthru there.
Good luck shooting sports! It is so much fun, enjoy!
It is good to upgrade even for landscape, for example only olympus and lumix i think they have star autofocus, when i had dslr i was putting the lens blindly on infinity or struggling to guess when a star is the smallest in liveview
Yep. I'm a motorsports photographer and gear matters a lot in this field. Yet for some other types of photography? Not that important. So yes, it's not really black and white.
edit: I don't care about megapixels, I do care about fast accurate autofocus.
@@kadinaatorI don't think that motorsports need the latest and greatest. I do that since years with the Sony A-mount gear. I understand though that the newest Sony E-mount cameras from the A9 mark 1 did superseded the A99ii for sport photography (but 24mpx ff sensor vs 42mpx ff sensor still is nonsense to me)
Totally agree with you on your analysis on the profit/shareholder concept driving the industry(ies) to keep encouraging us to consume, versus what’s important in life. Thank you.
Wise words Adam. I'm still using my 5D M4 and 5d SR, and have no reason or inclination to change these. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. Kind regards, Charles.
I really appreciate that you are questioning the "upgrade cycle" that permeates every aspect of our consumer-driven lives. It's taboo to even talk about it, especially in the US where credit card debt has reached 1.5 Trillion dollars. I tend to be a Cornucopian, but it's still very depressing. I'll continue to just learn how to compose my photos better.
Very refreshing and the reason I’m still subscribed. I recently unsubscribe to a number of other RUclips photography channels as they all started using ‘gifted’ Hasselblad cameras. Totally out of touch with reality and whores to the advertising budget of DJI.
Ι've also started unsubscribing from YT channels that are mostly about gear. Getting free stuff and money by trying to empty my wallet is not my cup of tea!
For landscapes I'm pretty happy with my 8-12 year old dslrs and the ultra cheap lens combo I managed to collect from people that were convinced they needed the upgrade. Fair play and good for them. And lucky me!
If Phase One offer me the XT with IQ150 back, you might have to unsubscribe.......🤣
@ as long as you use it in the rain I’ll stick around for that video 😜
@@Firstmanphotography this is the way
this only tells how much jealous you are and how much emphasis you put on gear
As a landscape photographer, it's brain dead simple: go on MPB or KEH, buy a 5DsR or Z7 for about USD1,000 or less, add the two lenses you need and be done with it.
It will lack the tripod, the remote and the nd filters though 😅
FF cameras are not even required for that. I've used a Nikon D7200 and a Sigma 18-35 f1.8. fantastic results ! This lens is one of the best lenses I've ever used for landscape photography.
Or a Nikon D850
@ EF Lena options Beat Nikon DSLR options. Z Mount also Beats the DSLR options. That 24-120mm S is a no brainer. Buying a Z7 just for that lens makes sense I think. But hey, the D850 is no slouch!
I still have my launch day 5dsr and see no need to upgrade for landscape photography.
A significant reason I continue to view your presentations is because you use a relatable camera, that I also use.
I love my R5... in Iceland right now, working it out !! I had the 5DmIV just before too... the larger sensor and stepped up autofocus (eye detect) sold me on the R5. It's all I never need.
Have been following you since the beginning and you are my inspiration to KISS it, I think too many photogs want to emulate the pros they see on u tube who promote the latest and greatest gear. Have been very happy with my obsolete Canon 5D MKll/ 7DMKll combo and older EF lenses. Keep up the inspiring work !
I been watching camera videos now for 5 years religiously, and today is the first time your channel has ever came up on my feed, and I am glad this video is made just for me. As I have g.s.s. Thanks
Thanks, really appreciate your time.
Love your viewpoint! I put off upgrading for quite a long while! Eventually I was able to buy a Nikon Z8 and going mirrorless has been a great experience. I shoot many genres and I find that the technology is helpful. Saying that, I’m sure I’ll shoot this camera until she dies! Thanks for taking me along!
I still use my Canon 5D and 5DS! And will never change! I love them. And major workhorses!! Great vid Adam!
Hang on to that 5DS. Last time I looked they were going up in value!
@ oh excellent! Thanks for the info!
I had a cart full of gear on mpb that I was humming and hawing over for some time. I was trading in my DJI air 3, a few lenses and my trusty and much loved canon 6D that has served me very well indeed. After watching this, I’ve decided that I’d be very much better off sticking with what I have until that falls apart and considering the abuse that 6D has taken it’s showing no signs of it yet. Thanks for that, you’ve saved me fortune.
Im here to serve. Thanks for watching.
I was in the same boat as your good self, using the Canon MK4 for 8years almost every day. It is still working. I finally came up with a sensible plan after a year of research. I very recently I bought a second hand R5 for £2500 only 1000 shutter clicks on it. And I just use the EF to RF canon adapter and still use my EF Glass. And my reason for upgrading was the shutter speed dial was playing up a wee bit. Now that I use the R5 I finally enjoy a tilt screen and EVF when working in the dark or using filters. Great to see a fellow wise and honest photographer.
I photographed a full wedding with a Ricoh GR. You would never know. They loved the pictures and recommended ne to other couples. You don't need a load of gear.
🎯
For real? Man I'd love to see those images!
Erm, I do love a new bit of gear! But... I agree with spending the money on boots, weather gear and a van. I think the van has turned out to be one of my best purchases, even with its initial problems. I wont mention the new Voigtlander lens no no. Excellent video! And who's this chap popping up at the end 😂 One of the best days of this year!
It's so true. I use 7 year old Sony A7RIII's for my professional work and they produce amazing images that have been used to create 2m wide posters which look great. I have, though, succumbed to the lure of a shiny new system in the shape of the Fujifilm XT5 which is great. Its biggest positive for me is that it's small and discreet and feels good in my hands. As you say all cameras are good enough these days so you can look to other aspects such as size and weight. I think we just love new stuff though, so it's always a challenge to resist the ongoing barrage of new features. How did people even take photos 15 years ago!! 😂
This is why I love watching Adam, he still uses a (Canon) DSLR while other photography RUclips channel folk have moved to mirrorless, expensive cameras, expensive lenses, which is fine but we can't all afford them or even have them gifted to us. Well said Adam and a great philosophy for life!
It was going well up to the moment you shared your views on the DJI Action 4. It’s been one of the best videos cams I’ve owned, more reliable than the Go Pro! On another note, changing to mirrorless from the 5D3 to my R6 has been a revelation and changed the way I shoot ie no tripod and 99% handheld. Your style and preference to shoot photography is key. Great content Adam
Yeah, i recall you saying you'd given up the tripod. It's a good point though and it's definitely about having the right tool for the job. Unless its the Action 4.....that'll never be right!!🤣
Agree, the DJI Action 4 had been great for me and much better quality than any other action cams I've tried.
I agree that printing your photos is the thing to do. It will improve your photography and bring your work from the nebulous to the physical.
Great video! I am still getting great images from a twenty year old 5MP bridge camera! I can print them to A3 for displaying around the house (I’ve no space for anything bigger). Also I have 4 other cameras, all bought used over the years and I couldn’t be happier! But if people have wads of spare cash, go for it! Why not? But I for one are not tempted.
As a purely hobbyist (not even gonna call myself a photographer just a dude with a decent camera), the main reason to upgrade was size & weight plus finding reasonably priced good quality lenses. I shot D90 / 18-200 for long enough but found I like re-discovering photos I took on old trips in Lightroom and on a newer 4k monitor they didn't look good at all. Eventually went to a D850, but for travel I was stuck with a 35mm as the zoom ranges for full frame were either weird or expensive or heavy (850+24-70 weighs almost 2Kg) or not-great quality. Now I can take a Z7ii on holiday with 14-30 plus 24-70 f/4 and come back with amazingly sharp photos using two lenses that weigh significantly less the one F-Mount one.
Thank you for this.. I've been through a major cash spend trying to find the "next thing" for my video work. I had some needs that were not being met and projects that needed more than I could do with my current gear so I needed to invest. I decided to go with pre-owned GH5 MKIIs because they were better than I needed and a fraction of new kit. Also, then it came down to learning that it's far more about the glass than the sensor. Now I know and have invested in some pro lenses and man what a difference. More folks need to talk about real advantages vs the next shiny that's really not applicable to 90% of the folks out there.
Again, thanks for this video.
Cheers
Rick
A few years ago I was in a creative rut in photography until I switched from my 5DIII to my new R6. Now I love photography again !
Absolutely agree, it's so easy to fall into the trap of thinking the latest kit is better, but so often the 'improvements' are irrelevant.
Well done 👏👏! I needed to hear/watch this.
Glad it was helpful!
Great commentary. As a hobbyist I have always used entry level camera bodies because that is what I could afford. I did invest in better quality lenses, all used as that is what I could afford. I recently bumped into another photographer in my area that has all the latest gear. He was so busy telling me how great his gear was that he missed an amazing sunset. We have since compared some prints from a photo session we were both at and he admitted his did not have the same outcome as mine and could not understand it. I suggested he spend time learning his craft rather than buying more gear. Apparently I offended him as he won't speak with me anymore. One of the reasons your channel is so precious is due the fact you don't push gear. Cheers!!!
Depends on your output needs, but also type of photography. Action is probably the main reason for upgrading, with pre-capture, FPS and Auto Focus really help you nail the shot.
Very true, more power to human connections and appreciating our gear whether it be old or new!
I really loved this vídeo. This is wisdom. I will watch it periodically as a method against GAS.
The RUclips algorithm, in its infinite wisdom, slipped this video under my nose this morning. In this age of artificial intelligence, a healthy dose of plain old horse sense is most welcome and greatly appreciated. I continue to depend on my venerable D850 while teetering on the brink of the F to Z transition. I created a spreadsheet detailing the transition plan, what would be sold and what would be purchased. Now I’m reevaluating two questions: what functionality that I really need will be gained at what price, and to what extent is the motivation just keeping up with the crowd?
- Very curious as to what your ultimate conclusion will be.
I always appreciate guys like you who squeeze the most out of their gear. I think its really ridiculous that I spent soo much on new cameras for photography only to edit them to look more like "film" and the older DSLRs have horrible ibis/lenses/focus that add all the "grit" that we are all trying to replicate and add back into our photos. For video, I cant disagree enough, the newer technology makes it almost brainless to operate and allows me to focus more on composition and lighting.
From a business perspective, it's all about what the client is happy with...and about what they know. Irrespective, that 'old' 5D is, and will be for many years, a beast!
Love the last few sentences Adam - couldn't agree more. Thanks for sharing your thoughts. One of my cameras is about 16 years old. I only upgraded because one of the kids broke a lens and it wasn't easy to find a replacement. Not a mainstream camera. So upgraded with second hand gear and have continued to enjoy getting out into nature to enjoy the beauty and connections with the world around me.
Hi Adam, your videos always inspire me to get out and shoot more and this one is going to be saved in my Watch again and Favourites folders, well done Derek
I'm still using an old 1DXi + quality lenses, and it handles absolutely anything you throw at it-except for silent shooting at weddings or video work. For pure photography, it’s all you really need. No client has ever complained about the image quality I’ve delivered.
And if it ever breaks (a big if), you can easily pick up a second-hand 1DX for next to nothing these days.
I shoot with a canon 90D and my pictures are good enough, so... Sometimes we can have the illusion that our pictures will be better with new gear. New gear, new toy, and we love that, aren't we still like children? Yes. I often remind me Koci Hernandez shooting with an I-phone 4 and doing the process into it. I will never forget this lesson. Thanks, Adam.
Nice! My main camera is 10 years old, I bought it 2 years after its release. The mighty SONY RX1
This year I got a GR iiiX as the side-kick
I had an RX1 years ago. After a few years of use I traded it in on some new equipment. I've always regretted that decision. The RX1 was one of the best cameras I have ever owned.
Spot on. I enjoy the rational approach to your videos, as compared to the hype on so many RUclips channels. Keep it up.
Adam
My cameras are all Pentax DSLR cameras I bought my first Pentax DSLR in 2005 a Pentax *istDL 6 megapixel CCD Sony sensor camera I still use it today as I've never had any problems with the camera and it uses AA batteries. In 2006 I bought my son a Pentax K100D another 6 megapixel camera. In 2015 I upgraded to a Pentax K50 a 16 megapixel weather sealed camera. In 2018 I have my son the Pentax K50 and I upgraded to a Pentax K70 a 24 megapixel camera with a flip screen. In 2020 my Pentax K70 had Apature block failure so I bought a used Pentax K3-11 that does not have Apature block problems and is Pentax top ASP-C camera to replace the K70. My son sent the K70 camera to a repair facility in Oregon that specializes in Pentax Apature block repair and he had the camera fixed for $100.00 and it works fine now
Nobody cares what camera you shot the pictures on they only care about the end results and a DSLR camera for most applications is just as good as a mirrorless camera in taking pictures
Pentax is a good choice and it's funny how many times people have told us they are a dead brand. My first was a K-r, and then I picked up a K-30 (firmware upgrade made it a K-50 and added PLM lens support). I have my eye on a K-S2, which I think is about as much DSLR as I'll ever need. They have such lovely lenses too. Love the handling, the RAW image quality and those special Pentax colours. The Pentax philosophy has always been to deliver features that matter, coupled with a polished user experience. Buttons, control wheels all the in right place, super comfortable grips, the easiest lens change experience in any system ever, and the cleanest and most intuitive menus. IBIS since 2006! Weather sealing in entry level bodies! 100% viewfinder coverage! I could go on...
15.18. Is to me what photography is about. Mostly. You are there, out in the elements. LIVING.
15:18
I couldn't agree more. I did make a jump from the Canon 5D IV to the R5 for very tangible reasons. Slightly lighter and smaller body and lenses, more focus aids, and the articulating LCD screen. Does it take a better photo? Not really. But all the things I listed sure help me as an older photographer moving into my golden years. If I were younger, I would still be using the 5D IV. I learned long ago to stop spending money on new gear without real justification.
Thank you very much for your time spend to put us back on the right path. Indeed, everything you said it is so true. Today it is about camera instead of actual outcome. Today it is about marketing, money and less about creativity, creation. You are one of few who care about the art of photography without thinking about profit. Any camera is good enough as we, the photographers, know how to create. Thank you so much for your work. Thank you.
Thanks for this. I can see that you are fine with what you have.
I'm still using my D600 for 11 years. Handles everything perfectly. I even have high speed sync now and it's great.
I bought a second 5D Mark IV in July 2024, after I had dropped my first 5D IV onto onto wet ground. My first one did successfully dry-out, and it is good to now have a spare.
Wow! I've just subscribed because of your attitude and the way you seeing things. Very refreshing and inspiring. Thanks so much!
Absolutely spot on! I brought a lumix s5 as my entry point to full frame photography a few years ago - it’s not got the best features but it takes great images and does exactly what I need it to do 👍
Totally agree with you. The best investment is not to buy a new camera but to know deep every function of the camera you own. I've a Canon 6d mk2, five years together and still it is a solid companion of my photography journey. If I've some extra money I prefer to buy another good quality lens (used of course, from a secure shop that offer two years of warranty) to experiment a different view and expand my creativity. Thanks Adam !
The best investment is getting out with your camera and taking photos. I don`t give a shit what my camera can do, never shot a better picture with that.
Practice makes perfect, learning what your camera can do is often useless.
انا اتفق معك في كل كلمة قلتها . وانا واحد من الناس الذين يطبق هذه القاعدة . لا انفق المال على شيء لا يضيف لي اي تقدم او فائدة . لذلك مازلت استخدم 3 كاميرات الديجيتال العتيقة بالاضافة الى بعض كاميرات الفيلم العتيقة ايضا والعدسات الممتازة . هذا كل ما احتاجة لانني في مجرد سوى هاوي وعاشق للتصوير ولست محترفا ولكن الامر قد يبدو مختلفا لبعض المصورين الذين يحتاجون الجديد باستمرار خصوصا سرعة الغالق والتركيز البؤري التلقائي ..
As someone who goes back to film days, serious photographers were never too bothered about the latest tech.
I am in complete lock step with all of these points. Well said 👍🏼👍🏼
I find it quite remarkable that people fall for the marketing. The latest and greatest is soon to become last years model. And you know what? It still works.
I went to an exposition of Elliot Erwitt today. Half of the pictures were what would one consider very unsharp these days. But man, what a freaking good images they all are ! They made my hair stand up. The so called professional photographers on youtube don’t come even near with all there fancy material and unnatural looking photographs.
You are so inspiring and logical, so much appreciate your perspective in this about such topics.
Finally someone with the same outlook on life and sustainability as me. As a non professional photographer I buy everything when it’s a few years old and I’ve only just upgraded my Nikon D200 to.a D850. I’m not a huge fan of mirrorless as it’s just not the same experience as having a proper viewfinder. Rather than buying a new lens, I spent the money on a three week trip to Japan!
Wow, that snow shot is incredible!
The reminder I very much needed 👍 great video
I could not agree more! Adam. Thanks for sharing
Appreciate your time, Steve. Thanks.
Lovely images and a great attitude about photography and about life!
Solid argument for printing at the end there 💯
You make a coherent argument, and what you say applies very well to someone who shoots mainly stationary objects, and rarely has to shoot handheld. That's not me -- I often must shoot handheld and I find the added expense of switching from the Canon 5D4 to the Canon R5 very well worth it. I get far more keepers with the R5 when I must shoot handheld, because the AF in the R5 is noticeably superior to that of the 5D4. It just grabs focus, dependably. Also, the in-body stabilization really helps, esp when used with a stabilized lens.
And then there's the elephant in the room: being able to look in the viewfinder and see exactly the image you will get at your current settings! It's fantastic -- allowing me to much more quickly adjust my settings in changing conditions. The R5 electronic viewfinder is really high quality, and I never feel that I'm looking into a pale digital imitation of reality. The EOS R viewfinder is also quite good. ALSO, I love the R5's ability to give you a 1.6 crop, and therefore a 60% increase in telephoto reach. I often take the 2 hour ferry ride from Vancouver Island to mainland BC, I regularly must deal with great distances. When you have 45 megapixels, your 1.6 crop still yields close to 20 mpx. AND, I must say, I do like the R5 RAW files. The 5D4's are very good, but I find the R5's are better. There's more depth and robustness to them. Image quality at higher ISO's is significantly better.
I'm not running the 5D4 down -- it's an excellent, dependable, high-end camera. But the improvements in the R5 definitely make life easier for the photographer with varied needs, yields more keepers. For this kind of photographer, it is simply a better tool. I do appreciate your honest opinions and well-presented, very informative videos, Adam.
A very solid argument. It’s important to have the right tool for the job, and like I said in the video, the R5 is pretty much the perfect camera.
One thing I've learned is that the only thing that can really make me better at anything is doing that thing -- a lot. I still like buying gear, but I almost never buy new. My most recent camera purchases (in 2024) were a Nikon D40X (c. 2007, 10mp CCD) and a Lumix G5 (c. 2012, 16mp). Both are fun cameras that can take better pictures than I can compose. But I'm getting better.
A great watch with wise words Adam.
Cheers Gary
There are many improvements which can be made, but it seems that camera companies are either bad at collecting and addressing user feedback, and/or they lack creativity.
I’m using. A Nikon D750, which is 2014 technology. I’ve found little reason to upgrade to anything newer. Image quality is still superb.
Having security features, like anti-theft features of IPhones through software, would be useful.
Also, having upgraded sensors would be nice. I’d update if the newest D750 successor had 50MP, but they don’t. They’ve all been stuck at 25MP for the last 12 years, unless you want to pay 3-4K.
I personally love the DSLR. I can see why mirrorless has its advantages, but I love the clarity of an optical viewfinder, not the miniaturized digital screen of a mirrorless faux viewfinder. Practically, a DSLR can be made to behave like a mirrorless camera when in live view anyway. Battery life is also exceptional with DSLR.
All makes sense, I have a Canon 6D2 and it still does the job. I don't think I need a newer Camera unless the prices come down somewhat. Love your Work !
Just the video I needed. I was thinking of upgrading my 8 year old Sony a6000 but with hours and hours of research realized the image quality of the modern cameras are no better. Plus it weighs only 12 oz. You saved me thousands. Now what else can I spend that money on?
Love this video, one of my favourite on the net 🙂 THX
I agree with your sentiments! Photography is more important than cameras ….. following on from your comments about printing, I have really enjoyed pulling together photo books….. it is a project that requires focus and enables us to present a larger body of work together. The per image cost of printing a photo book is very reasonable. I’m currently working to build a couple of bodies of work that I intend to print via books … may take another year or so, but will be well worth it
I got quite used to not upgrading when I bought my OM-1. I kept it for years as my sole camera and still have it.
The electronic film camera age totally passed me by, and I didn't miss it at all.
However, when I started with digital I was rapidly suckered into the upgrade cycle, until I reached full frame with a Canon 5Dii and a Nikon D600. Both of them keep me quite happy and I've no intention of upgrading, unless some utterly irresistible deal crops up.
The largest I ever print is A4 size, and even my ancient APS-C digibodies will do that.
global shutter in A9mk3 can be considered a game changer for the niche market
It’s definitely a nice evolution. Although I’d love to hear from sports or wildlife photographers about how many shots they’ve missed due to a rolling shutter. If it’s enough to justify an upgrade, then fair enough.
I have no need or desire to ditch my 5DMkIV. It performs beautifully, so until it doesn't, it's a keeper.
Excellent video Adam 👍
Thanks for this great video and well said.
One of your best video essays Adam! The camera market has trended to video where everyone's so called flagship camera is essentially a video camera that also allows you to shoot stills. They seem to be very good for fast action, moving object photography, but no one seems to tout what you mentioned, excellent dynamics range, low noise at higher iso's, etc. I went from a 5Ds to a R5 and at the end of the day the images were of the same quality. I do enjoy and prefer the the feel and handling of the R5 which is superior. That said I'm not upgrading anytime soon as these hybrid cameras are not for me.
You are absolutely correct, however, every time I hear one of the photographers I follow talking about GAS, I am reminded of my dangerous self, and let me explain, I have been a computer and software professional since the dawn of the computers, well almost😁, at least since the time we have to create code on punched cards that them will be interpreted by a computer occupying a whole floor in building and I am still at it, which has meant an constantly update on skills and technology and adaptation over more than 40 years, this is a long way to explain that the need for changes and chasing new technology, now in the camera world is prevalent and I need to control myself.
That being said, since I started back in photography I have own 2 systems, I started with a Canon 90, 50mm and 70-200 mm my intent is to go outside and take the land and sea scapes so I quickly found the equipment to be heavy and dragged me to shorter hikes and less time outside so, after a careful study of options and where I wanted to be in my photography adventure I decided for a fuji X system, specifically the X-H2 and I own a 80mm macro, a 56mm and a 16-55mm, which not only cut the weight almost in half but the change was based on what is the best I can get with the money I have, I was able to pay for more than half of my new system with the money I've got from selling my Canon system.
My next investment would be a printer, I have been considering it as my photography is getting better, so I think 🤣, and have to admit that between you and Keith Cooper have me inspired and leaning towards it, aside from the fact that the process of learning how to print seems a good challenge to tackle.
Sorry for the long story, I always appreciate your insides and knowledge.
P.S. I have to stay away from the Hasselblad site 👹😵💫🤣🤣🤣
Not a long story but similar to my own, oh Ill have nightmares about punched cards and progamming using tape, not quite all floor computers, but about time when IBM brought the first desktop out, you had to book time to use servers
@@andirutherford2615 Whew! I thought I was old but I began writing software on the IBM 8086, swapping 5 1/4 disks to use a word processor or spreadsheet . I did begin my photo journey with the Canon AE-1......
@@gary4739 my first camera was and EOS-620 with a 50 and a 70-200 with autofocus!! I believe the first at the time!
Thank you for this video Adam. You have a very valid point - and I fully agree with you (still using my old Canon 1DmkIV and loving it).
Absolutely spot on the upgrade cycle for new is totally new "upgrades" I basically buy used always on my Olympus equipment for wildlife photography. For family grandchildren shots a top end smartphone is sadly pretty good
TBH that's why you have me as a subscriber,, I don't do much landscape photography but you always speak sense!
My local pub has a 1200mmx800mm canvas print of one of my pics hung on the wall, the detail looks good and it was shot on my old 24MP APS-C Canon M5.
Seems to me the answer to your conundrum might be to set a budget. In business, this would become a key component of your managed cash flow. Then you'd buy what you need for the next project when you need it - new or used. You would also not be able to start that project until the capacity is there'd your ready to generate a return.
I've been a working professional for 20 years or thereabouts (portraits, headshots, brand photos, mainly but I've done a little bit of everything other than sports). For the first 10 years, I used *one* camera (with a backup body just in case). I now use a Z8 and a D750. I bought the D750 in 2015 and I still use it. I don't plan on 'upgrading' unless something bad happens. When I first started out I used to get dejected because there were amateur gear hoarders that had kit worth 5 times what I had. I now applaud them for supporting photographers by proxy. Some camera companies were at serious risk of going under. Some still are. Your video will make little difference to those, and I'm glad it will. Nice video regardless!
I recently purchased the Canon 10d and I'm loving it with a plastic Diana lens I bought 20 years ago for a tenner. Art vrs gear.
Great vid again! Really refreshing and so practical. Because imagine if you’d bought into a brand new mirrorless system with new lenses, etc.., and then your computer, hard drive & monitor broke!
But… I do need to ask some advice and would appreciate your view.
I’m relatively new to photography, so bought an APS-C DSLR system second hand with a few of the best complementary lenses I could get/afford. I’ve had some really good results with the landscape genre and recently joined a camera club to get some more experience.
Since then, I’ve joined some interest groups within the club and I’m seeing the limitations of relatively poor autofocus & non-weatherproofing but I don’t want to spend a fortune either! The 24MP resolution is fine, but I realise I’d have to change the whole system to address those issues.
Love to have your thoughts, or a camera & lenses which you think would be worth consideration.
Stick with what you have. How did photographers in the past manage, yet we love their work don’t we? Being in a club and seeing what other gear people have can be a temptation. I would say work on and improve your skills first, then when you have reached a good level, consider getting a better camera, only if you can easily afford it that is. Consider used, for that is how I buy all my gear.
@ I agree on all you have said. Would need to spend £2k-£3k to get what I need, but definitely doesn’t feel like the right thing to do.
Another option would be to spend just £500 on a used Nikon D500 (I have a D5600) to get great autofocus and weatherproofing on the camera at least, and I can still use the same lenses.
You are a welcome exception amongst many photographers on You Tube, who seem to "update' or change cameras every year. I have been shooting with my Nikon D810 since March 2015 and have no reason to buy a new camera yet. Although it's getting more tempting to get a smaller mirrorless camera for lighter travel.
In 2017 I jumped to full frame with a nikon D810. A great camera that I’ve used for all sorts of photography. This summer I hired a z8 to checkout it’s handling for action photography which I’ve been doing a lot recently. I was blown away by its handling - less impressed by battery life. In the end I took the plunge and bought one. This could well be the last camera I buy :)
The latest gear won't improve your photography that much, especially landscape photography, wildlife and birding is different tho tbf.
The difference in IQ between FF, APSC and MFT is tiny now, a good photo on any format is a good photo. I shoot APSC and no-one can ever tell if it's FF or not, whether it be printed or on a screen.
If your subject doesn’t move no need to upgrade.
If you shoot wildlife and are used to your DSLR getting confused by birds flying over a busy background you should be excited about the abilities of the newer cameras! 🤷♂️
Going from a 7DII and a 5DII to an R5 using adapted EF lenses I’m stunned by how well it tracks a bird across a background using its eye as the target! 🤯
I feel the same way. I photograph landscape and wildlife. I have yet to see a video that convinced my that my D850 is a limitation... and I don't personally want a camera that removes the need for all skill. Then again I also shoot film...
All power to you!
Im thinking of down grading my camera after up grading it because all the extra resolution and updated raw file types means I now need to upgrade my computer and my software (photoshop) which is not very cost effective.
I downgraded from FF to MFT. I can barely see a difference in the pictures. But my whole gear weighs just a fraction of the old and I can easily carry it for hours.
Brilliant video. The only video worth watching about gear, with excellent life advice.
I'm in the same boat, I won't spend unless I need to, not want to.
I have also lost patience with all the annoying hype videos I get recommended from camera channels.
Everything new, makes the " professional " must have gear to survive and be competitive. What absolute tripe.
Never ending cycle.
Great video Adam👍
Mate I Shoot with a 80d and one of my favourite lenses is like one you use alot the 17- 40mm f4. I love it plus I'm not that worried about dropping it as much as I would using the R series gear. Which I think could hold me back in the outdoors.
Great lens that. I had one for many years. Went to the 16-35mm f4 later which has that extra bit of width, but much worse vignetting.
Ahhh the window shopping of the potential upgrade is definitely fun! I'm a bit hard on my cameras, so I wait til I break it which is about every 3-4 years 😂
Nice one but please let everybody Upgrade as they wish. This gives me plenty of opportunity to snatch some great deals on used top notch glass and camera bodies. I e.g. bought a D810 and some fast zooms a while ago for a reasonable price. It serves me very well for ICM and landscape due to the low iso.
I love your thinking and absolutely agree with you.
The way I put it, if someone has a few thousand to spend and wants to take better photos, what should they do?
1) buy new gear, or
2) spend it on trips to great locations (not necessarily at the other side of the world).
For the fast majority of people, I'm convinced it's hands down option 2.
Even those who have really bad gear that limits them (it *is* possible, though not common) could upgrade to not-the-latest version of a good camera and a decent lens, and have some left to travel.
Beyond the pictures they come back with, the experience's memories would last forever, while the "having a new fancy camera" feeling will be quickly forgotten
Brilliant video. I’m in a similar position to you with regards to my iMac has just gone past its sell by date. Would you be able to share what set up you went for for photo editing
Hi Adam .. thanks for another great from the heart blog. The times I’m out with my photography friends like minded people who just get it … gear doesn’t give you experiences like that. Yes it’s about photography but the people the places and shared times complete the deal.😊👍.. K - New Zealand
Absolutely right.
This video is mind-blowing; I'm subscribing right away.