I would like to add a fourth advantage to your list: you, personally, can serve as an inspiration and teacher for those who view your videos. It's the altruism of posting your videos. As always, thanks for taking us along and sharing your knowledge and experiences as well as the images.
I've been following you for a couple of years and your vids and photographs are a must watch. Your ability to get so much from what appears to be not much is a reminder about what good photography actually is and I love your work and approach. I used to work with helicopter outfits videoing and photographing their operations in Alaska, Canadian Arctic and NZ. Most of the time conditions are hard going with long days but my film industry experience from the 70's and 80's taught me to just keep going no matter what. Interestingly my best work came from difficult conditions.
Your strength of will to get out of the car in the wind, cold and rain has led to some amazing image-making over the years. And it's an inspiration for the rest of us to be braver as well.,
I've been doing still photography for 35 years, but only got back into video again a few years ago. The access, quality, and availability of editing software has rekindled an old love of "telling a story" in pictures. I originally started doing RUclips to make a visual guide for a local camera club, but I kept making new ones every time I thought of something interesting I'd like to talk about. I haven't kept a scheduled time for posting or anything- I just do them when the subject feels right and I feel like someone might get some use out of the information. I don't have many subscribers, but this doesn't bother me anymore. I do the videos more for myself and then if someone wants to come along for the hike, that's fine too. The great part is that I'm learning so much all the time again! Each time out, I might hit a snag or something that forces me to learn a new aspect that I didn't know before- like sound, lighting, speaking, editing with purpose, or even how to use RUclips itself! So even though I don't have many views on my channel, it's all good practice for me! I learn, and that's always a plus! I also must mention that watching your videos and the videos of other RUclipsrs, I have learned so much more about our world!
If I ever thought that you were a You Tuber rather than a great stills photographer Steve, I'd stop watching your videos. The You Tubers are more concerned with their viewing and subscribing figures to keep the sponsorships coming. That is why you see titles like I slipped and bought a Leica, or this Sony will change your life, or I'd die for my Fuji or something stupid along those lines. You are a photographer, and that is why I watch your work on You Tube.
It’s an interesting topic, I have a thoroughly enjoyed This channel and it’s clear you are primarily a photographer. It’s generous to share your time and effort but for me personally I can’t imagine juggling anything other than stopping for a brew or putting the camera down and just enjoying being there.
It’s surprising how quickly it becomes second nature to constantly pause for B roll clips and record multiples angles to illustrate the photography process. It is most intrusive when struggling through undergrowth or climbing mountains as you have to retrace your steps to retrieve the video camera!
Thanks Steve. Living in OZ I make a video now and again for my brother in UK to show my 'backyard' as it were, when I'm out on the bike or off somewhere on a walk. He does the same for me from his place in Lincolnshire. It really lets you feel you're there, much more than a still photo and I highly value the footage. It's much the same with your vids. I feel privileged that you take us out with you, in all weathers, so we don't have to get cold and wet to enjoy it. Top stuff, thanks again.
Just want to thank you for the birthday inspiration and entertainment. I really enjoy your photography and your video word. So pleased that you are sharing.
RUclips has definitely been an extra motivator to get out. Filming yourself is almost always a huge hassle. Setting up a camera to film myself doing something nearly mundane, like operating a camera, feels so weird and self obsessive, but is needed to tell a story, show the atmosphere, and place yourself in the environment you are photographing.
As ever, a superb viewing/learning experience. As a solely stills photographer, a major pair of disadvantages would be (1) the expense of the video and editing equipment, which could be spent on stills equipment (2) the energy/time expended to learn the video technology. It seems very brave, to me, to put yourself out there to the world, as you do so regularly. When I taught, I only put myself out to 10-15 students, less if a graduate level class - and even that exposure went against my grain. toodle pip, Russ
I am glad that you tell your adventures on youtube. I have learned a lot and it is always entertaining to see you battle the wind. 😊 Yet, still get good photos
Wise words 👍 From My prospective I have seen a number of Negative effects which make RUclips a mixed platform. Which does not enrich my Art on balance.
It makes me a better photographer to know people are looking at what I am creating, no matter if it is my images on an exhibition, images in my books, or as you those RUclips videos. And I like the interaction with my viewers, as that often gives me ideas to new interesting projects. So RUclips is definitely positive for my photography.
Thank you for making your videos. I don't often get the opportunity to get out to the coast or north Wales, your videos are close to walking in these places. Your photographs and technique have benefited my photography for which I am grateful.
Interesting to watch as someone with a channel . Inspired by people such as yourself . Everything you said resonated with me My approach is 100% selfish or at least minimal clutter , it's a video diary , in the early days I tried to do all the stuff the others do , cut away shots of me walking towards or away from the camera , time lapse of skies wizzing past . I film on an iPhone 13 handheld these days . As a viewer of videos I find all the unnecessary stuff " unnecessary! I watch most videos on 2 x speed and slow down when the pictures are displayed Love Thomas Heaton for example but I have no interest in what he's having for dinner or him lacing his boots But that's just me I guess judging from the 1/2 million people who follow him Thanks for all the work you have done over the years !
At least for me, I mentally separate the photographers who also happy to enjoy posting videos on youtube, from those who are "RUclipsrs". Even if they do not directly disclose their motives in a video, the orientation of the content on the channel speaks for itself usually. Your channel has always been more the former than the latter to me. I enjoy your videos and your work. I have one of your photos on my wall that serves as insirpration to me.
I can see that being a YT photographer provides a push to get out and make content, but does that sense of obligation ever seem like a burden? No doubt you are always (?) glad that you made the effort when you reflect on a trip afterwards. The videos you've posted here are a terrific body of work of which you can be very proud. I'll keep watching for as long as you continue to make them, and beyond!
It could seem like a burden prior to getting out David but once I reach a location, even a local one I’m glad I had the initial push of creating a video to get me started.
You’d be proud of me Steve, today I packed my camera bag and set off out the front door in -7c ice and frost, and couldn’t get into the car, the doors were frozen shut. But the great point you make is about having some discipline. And while treating a hobby as a ‘job’ is a bit of a stretch it’s a very similar mindset, don’t let yourself down for lack of effort.
Hi, I am this guy asking you to come to Blackpool : ) I am glad I discovered your YT account, because you show not only skill but also you have an academic approach to explain things. I am very greatfull to you for sharing all this knowledge.
Additional disadvantage: Missing the moment. I have seen various RUclips photographers miss the moment when it is very ephemeral (sun peeks out from behind a cloud for a moment, things like that). Setting up the drones and video cameras and things of that nature can be a distraction at the worst possible moment. Additional advantage: Channels like yours are actual educational opportunities for your audience. In my mind, there is nothing more noble than teaching. In addition, being a teacher forces competency. The best way to learn something really thoroughly is to teach it to others. In order to be sure of your content, it is necessary to self-educate so that the content is correct.
You can miss the moment Dann but I usually shoot the image first then record footage. If the light is static I will do video first then get in with the stills in my own time.
Very helpful, and I see myself agreeing with all your six points, both negative and positive. Truthfully - and I'm not just saying this - I have always marveled at your extraordinarily good photographs, have always been interested to "see" you making them (traveling to and fro the locations, setting yourself up. and your commentary as you check out various locations or angles before deciding one one) and frankly I am now very impressed to hear you are not, as I thought, a full-time professional photographer, but an IT guy with a passion for great photography! Ignore all the haters and those with nothing to offer themselves but petty criticisms of others way more talented than they could ever be. And l selfishly add - I hope you keep making these wonderful videos for as long as they are helpful, or edifying, or educating to - in fact, even just pleasant experiences for - you. And thank you sincerely for all I've enjoyed and learned from you already. [Roger]
Thanks Roger and I’m so pleased to hear that you enjoy the videos. Occasionally I wonder why I make them but most of the time it’s great fun and I do like to watch them back, especially the earlier ones where I look so much younger 😀
Best advice I ever heard was from a guy whose channel is called Exeter Rider and his words were 'Treat it like a Business' Not that I'm doing it with this channel currently, well not on RUclips anyway, but it's working with my other (motorcycle) channel. Now about that resolution to use less film in 2021/2/3/4?
I’m not sure I know the difference James, I suppose vlogging is just recording your day to day activities as opposed to making content specifically to publish (like this video 🙂).
As a consumer of RUclips photography videos, a few observations come to mind. The first is these things are free entertainment. There is absolutely no compulsion to watch, the viewer is not paying for the privilege, except for sitting through boring adverts. Second is RUclips photography is mostly artifice. The walk away shot is followed by the return journey, after the cut. One RUclips photographer claims to dislike tripods, yet the support for his carefully framed video camera shot - is a tripod! Third: the video setting the scene is often better than the still image. Not always, but frequently. Four: landscape photographers tend to visit picturesque places. Because I get deja vu from photos of Striding Edge, Chrome Hill and Snowdon, doesn't mean they're not attractive to other people. Finally, great light is a rare thing, so don't blame the RUclipsr if its less than perfect. One of my favourite shots was of a filthy day on the moors. 20 seconds of beauty from 10 hours of miserable bog hopping. Try setting a video camera up for that.
Speaking of RUclips... I am searching the net for a countryman of yours who has a channel where he makes add on B&W add-ons for LR & PS. He has the same first name as your, sometimes, sidekick. Maybe? Can you help?
An intuitively obvious benefit of making RUclips videos is the increasing of your "public presence." You have about 37000 subscribers; how many of those do you think would be aware an appreciative of your work had you not produced YT videos?
I enjoy watching certain youtubers but I must admit to a certain puzzlement/admiration as to why they do it. Luckily I was born as ugly as sin so will never be tempted to follow in your footsteps.
the bottom line is this~ if you are going to upload videos on RUclips, you ONLY DO IT FOR YOURSELF. It is not something that you should be doing for anybody else, including the viewers. You do what YOU want to do and then upload the video based on what you want to do. The biggest reason why channels fail is because people are doing videos based on what the viewers want you to do. that is the absolute wrong way to go about a RUclips channel. if you do that, eventually you loose the joy of making videos. Make the videos that YOU want to make and the people that align with your interests will find you and follow along.
Like a lot of people, I found myself with lots of free time in early 2020 and thought about RUclips or a podcast. However the old guy complaining format is low hanging fruit, and been done ad nauseam. I’ll just stay up here in the balcony with the other muppets.
I would like to add a fourth advantage to your list: you, personally, can serve as an inspiration and teacher for those who view your videos. It's the altruism of posting your videos. As always, thanks for taking us along and sharing your knowledge and experiences as well as the images.
Agree 💯 % 🙂
Thank you, I suppose I was looking at it from the perspective of the creator, not the viewer 🙂
so true! ❤
I've been following you for a couple of years and your vids and photographs are a must watch. Your ability to get so much from what appears to be not much is a reminder about what good photography actually is and I love your work and approach. I used to work with helicopter outfits videoing and photographing their operations in Alaska, Canadian Arctic and NZ. Most of the time conditions are hard going with long days but my film industry experience from the 70's and 80's taught me to just keep going no matter what. Interestingly my best work came from difficult conditions.
It's all about the content and yours is very valuable. Your work is also excellent.
I appreciate that 🙂
Your strength of will to get out of the car in the wind, cold and rain has led to some amazing image-making over the years. And it's an inspiration for the rest of us to be braver as well.,
Thank you Graham, I’m glad you enjoy the ramblings.
I've been doing still photography for 35 years, but only got back into video again a few years ago. The access, quality, and availability of editing software has rekindled an old love of "telling a story" in pictures. I originally started doing RUclips to make a visual guide for a local camera club, but I kept making new ones every time I thought of something interesting I'd like to talk about. I haven't kept a scheduled time for posting or anything- I just do them when the subject feels right and I feel like someone might get some use out of the information. I don't have many subscribers, but this doesn't bother me anymore. I do the videos more for myself and then if someone wants to come along for the hike, that's fine too. The great part is that I'm learning so much all the time again! Each time out, I might hit a snag or something that forces me to learn a new aspect that I didn't know before- like sound, lighting, speaking, editing with purpose, or even how to use RUclips itself! So even though I don't have many views on my channel, it's all good practice for me! I learn, and that's always a plus! I also must mention that watching your videos and the videos of other RUclipsrs, I have learned so much more about our world!
Always found your channel a great resource Steve and always clear you are a photographer first, sharing your knowledge via video.
“I enjoy making videos” - and there is a great reason to do it. I also agree with the capturing of place and the experience.
If I ever thought that you were a You Tuber rather than a great stills photographer Steve, I'd stop watching your videos. The You Tubers are more concerned with their viewing and subscribing figures to keep the sponsorships coming. That is why you see titles like I slipped and bought a Leica, or this Sony will change your life, or I'd die for my Fuji or something stupid along those lines. You are a photographer, and that is why I watch your work on You Tube.
It’s an interesting topic, I have a thoroughly enjoyed This channel and it’s clear you are primarily a photographer. It’s generous to share your time and effort but for me personally I can’t imagine juggling anything other than stopping for a brew or putting the camera down and just enjoying being there.
It’s surprising how quickly it becomes second nature to constantly pause for B roll clips and record multiples angles to illustrate the photography process. It is most intrusive when struggling through undergrowth or climbing mountains as you have to retrace your steps to retrieve the video camera!
Thanks Steve. Living in OZ I make a video now and again for my brother in UK to show my 'backyard' as it were, when I'm out on the bike or off somewhere on a walk. He does the same for me from his place in Lincolnshire. It really lets you feel you're there, much more than a still photo and I highly value the footage. It's much the same with your vids. I feel privileged that you take us out with you, in all weathers, so we don't have to get cold and wet to enjoy it. Top stuff, thanks again.
Just want to thank you for the birthday inspiration and entertainment. I really enjoy your photography and your video word. So pleased that you are sharing.
Thanks for offering us all the best videos on RUclips.
It's my pleasure Michael.
RUclips has definitely been an extra motivator to get out. Filming yourself is almost always a huge hassle. Setting up a camera to film myself doing something nearly mundane, like operating a camera, feels so weird and self obsessive, but is needed to tell a story, show the atmosphere, and place yourself in the environment you are photographing.
As ever, a superb viewing/learning experience.
As a solely stills photographer, a major pair of disadvantages would be (1) the expense of the video and editing equipment, which could be spent on stills equipment (2) the energy/time expended to learn the video technology.
It seems very brave, to me, to put yourself out there to the world, as you do so regularly. When I taught, I only put myself out to 10-15 students, less if a graduate level class - and even that exposure went against my grain.
toodle pip, Russ
I am glad that you tell your adventures on youtube. I have learned a lot and it is always entertaining to see you battle the wind. 😊 Yet, still get good photos
Thanks Erich, I have also realised that I’d lost track of the number of videos I’d made, nearly 300 now so I must like it 😊
Wise words 👍
From My prospective I have seen a number of Negative effects which make RUclips a mixed platform.
Which does not enrich my Art on balance.
It makes me a better photographer to know people are looking at what I am creating, no matter if it is my images on an exhibition, images in my books, or as you those RUclips videos. And I like the interaction with my viewers, as that often gives me ideas to new interesting projects. So RUclips is definitely positive for my photography.
Another good point, with so many people seeing the images it puts pressure on you to make them as good as possible 👍
Thank you for making your videos. I don't often get the opportunity to get out to the coast or north Wales, your videos are close to walking in these places. Your photographs and technique have benefited my photography for which I am grateful.
I’m really glad you enjoy the outings Richard.
Interesting to watch as someone with a channel . Inspired by people such as yourself . Everything you said resonated with me
My approach is 100% selfish or at least minimal clutter , it's a video diary , in the early days I tried to do all the stuff the others do , cut away shots of me walking towards or away from the camera , time lapse of skies wizzing past . I film on an iPhone 13 handheld these days .
As a viewer of videos I find all the unnecessary stuff " unnecessary! I watch most videos on 2 x speed and slow down when the pictures are displayed
Love Thomas Heaton for example but I have no interest in what he's having for dinner or him lacing his boots
But that's just me I guess judging from the 1/2 million people who follow him
Thanks for all the work you have done over the years !
At least for me, I mentally separate the photographers who also happy to enjoy posting videos on youtube, from those who are "RUclipsrs". Even if they do not directly disclose their motives in a video, the orientation of the content on the channel speaks for itself usually. Your channel has always been more the former than the latter to me. I enjoy your videos and your work. I have one of your photos on my wall that serves as insirpration to me.
I can see that being a YT photographer provides a push to get out and make content, but does that sense of obligation ever seem like a burden? No doubt you are always (?) glad that you made the effort when you reflect on a trip afterwards. The videos you've posted here are a terrific body of work of which you can be very proud. I'll keep watching for as long as you continue to make them, and beyond!
It could seem like a burden prior to getting out David but once I reach a location, even a local one I’m glad I had the initial push of creating a video to get me started.
Hello Steve! Thanks for your views. We love your content and watch them over again. Keep doing ..
Love from India
- Rahul Deshpande
Thanks Rahul, I’m glad you enjoy the videos.
You’d be proud of me Steve, today I packed my camera bag and set off out the front door in -7c ice and frost, and couldn’t get into the car, the doors were frozen shut. But the great point you make is about having some discipline. And while treating a hobby as a ‘job’ is a bit of a stretch it’s a very similar mindset, don’t let yourself down for lack of effort.
Shame about the ice Steven but at least you tried 😊
Hi, I am this guy asking you to come to Blackpool : ) I am glad I discovered your YT account, because you show not only skill but also you have an academic approach to explain things. I am very greatfull to you for sharing all this knowledge.
Thank you, I hope Blackpool is on the list to revisit this year 👍
Thank you for your content
You are most welcome.
Additional disadvantage: Missing the moment. I have seen various RUclips photographers miss the moment when it is very ephemeral (sun peeks out from behind a cloud for a moment, things like that). Setting up the drones and video cameras and things of that nature can be a distraction at the worst possible moment.
Additional advantage: Channels like yours are actual educational opportunities for your audience. In my mind, there is nothing more noble than teaching. In addition, being a teacher forces competency. The best way to learn something really thoroughly is to teach it to others. In order to be sure of your content, it is necessary to self-educate so that the content is correct.
You can miss the moment Dann but I usually shoot the image first then record footage. If the light is static I will do video first then get in with the stills in my own time.
Very helpful, and I see myself agreeing with all your six points, both negative and positive. Truthfully - and I'm not just saying this - I have always marveled at your extraordinarily good photographs, have always been interested to "see" you making them (traveling to and fro the locations, setting yourself up. and your commentary as you check out various locations or angles before deciding one one) and frankly I am now very impressed to hear you are not, as I thought, a full-time professional photographer, but an IT guy with a passion for great photography!
Ignore all the haters and those with nothing to offer themselves but petty criticisms of others way more talented than they could ever be. And l selfishly add - I hope you keep making these wonderful videos for as long as they are helpful, or edifying, or educating to - in fact, even just pleasant experiences for - you. And thank you sincerely for all I've enjoyed and learned from you already. [Roger]
Thanks Roger and I’m so pleased to hear that you enjoy the videos. Occasionally I wonder why I make them but most of the time it’s great fun and I do like to watch them back, especially the earlier ones where I look so much younger 😀
@@SteveONions Ha ha, and good!
Best advice I ever heard was from a guy whose channel is called Exeter Rider and his words were 'Treat it like a Business' Not that I'm doing it with this channel currently, well not on RUclips anyway, but it's working with my other (motorcycle) channel. Now about that resolution to use less film in 2021/2/3/4?
I’ve actually used quite a lot less film since 2020, partly down to mixing in digital content but also from the effect of those big price rises! 😲
Steve, one question I have is… is there a difference between video-blogging and "info'tainment"? Which do you prefer?
I’m not sure I know the difference James, I suppose vlogging is just recording your day to day activities as opposed to making content specifically to publish (like this video 🙂).
As a consumer of RUclips photography videos, a few observations come to mind. The first is these things are free entertainment. There is absolutely no compulsion to watch, the viewer is not paying for the privilege, except for sitting through boring adverts. Second is RUclips photography is mostly artifice. The walk away shot is followed by the return journey, after the cut. One RUclips photographer claims to dislike tripods, yet the support for his carefully framed video camera shot - is a tripod!
Third: the video setting the scene is often better than the still image. Not always, but frequently. Four: landscape photographers tend to visit picturesque places. Because I get deja vu from photos of Striding Edge, Chrome Hill and Snowdon, doesn't mean they're not attractive to other people. Finally, great light is a rare thing, so don't blame the RUclipsr if its less than perfect. One of my favourite shots was of a filthy day on the moors. 20 seconds of beauty from 10 hours of miserable bog hopping. Try setting a video camera up for that.
I also think the video clips often look better than the stills 😊
Happy New Year Steve. Look forward to seeing your videos in 2025. A good look on the world of YT and great points good n bad. atb Alan
Thanks Alan and all the best for 2025 to you too.
Oh the faffing about 😂 this made me chuckle
Must admit “YouTubing” gets me out shooting stuff I wouldn’t normally consider.
Great video
Thanks Lee.
Your photography is great don't worry about that.
Probably the best photographer on youtube I would say.
Thank you 😊
Speaking of RUclips... I am searching the net for a countryman of yours who has a channel where he makes add on B&W add-ons for LR & PS. He has the same first name as your, sometimes, sidekick. Maybe? Can you help?
I’m not familiar with that person unfortunately Harry.
An intuitively obvious benefit of making RUclips videos is the increasing of your "public presence." You have about 37000 subscribers; how many of those do you think would be aware an appreciative of your work had you not produced YT videos?
That’s true I suppose although I haven’t really thought about the numbers.
I enjoy watching certain youtubers but I must admit to a certain puzzlement/admiration as to why they do it. Luckily I was born as ugly as sin so will never be tempted to follow in your footsteps.
😀 I don’t think any of the RUclips photography clan would win a beauty contest 🙂
the bottom line is this~ if you are going to upload videos on RUclips, you ONLY DO IT FOR YOURSELF. It is not something that you should be doing for anybody else, including the viewers. You do what YOU want to do and then upload the video based on what you want to do. The biggest reason why channels fail is because people are doing videos based on what the viewers want you to do. that is the absolute wrong way to go about a RUclips channel. if you do that, eventually you loose the joy of making videos. Make the videos that YOU want to make and the people that align with your interests will find you and follow along.
You obviously don’t make videos 😊
Disadvantage no 4:- Making images only for the sake of content.
Possibly true but any trip out is better than no trip 🙂
I wish I could disagree with any of those points!
Maybe you’re not a RUclipsr…. Maybe you’re an influencer! 😁😬
That’s worse!
Like a lot of people, I found myself with lots of free time in early 2020 and thought about RUclips or a podcast. However the old guy complaining format is low hanging fruit, and been done ad nauseam. I’ll just stay up here in the balcony with the other muppets.
Finding a new angle for RUclips videos would be amazing 🙂