Hey Duade. Thank you so much for this video and all the content you put out. This one has really struck a chord especially on an emotional side. I absolutely love winton and was able to visit on my last trip last year and you pointed me in the right direction of places to go when I emailed you so I want to thank you personally for that. It will be a while before I’m able to travel back there due to health reasons but I hope when I do I’ll be able to bump into you for a bit of birding fun. Thanks again for sharing your journey with us and being real. This by far makes you the best at what you do and why I’m sure it strikes such a chord with so many of us. Good health and happiness to you and your loved ones. Thank you.
Thanks for the kind words and feedback, I really do appreciate it. So glad you had a good time there. Be sure to reach out next time you visit and I hope your own health journey is going well. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade thanks Duade, I’ll certainly be in touch. Hopefully the grey skies will clear over the Xmas period here in the uk so I can get out and get shooting. Thanks again and stay strong. Cheers Mark.
Great Video! It's a very grey Winter's day here in Germany, I'm jealous of the light you have! I've sold all my mirrorless gear and kept my 'retro' stuff (5D Mk2) I use photography for my mental balance.
Haha, I've just been out with my 5d mkii with a pentacon 50mm 1.8, something nice about the clunkiness... I'm sure optical viewfinders are better for your mental health!
A field trip with Duade is always fun. And as you’ve proved again and again it’s not the gear but the person behind the camera who takes the great pictures while enjoying what they do. 👍👍👍
Duade - Thank you so much for sharing your human-ness with your viewers. Your love of birds and photography is refreshing. I hope, pray and wish the best for you and your love-ones.
I truly love watching your videos, there aren't many folks that combine all the elements of passion, knowledge, photography skills and stunning images that even show how much the RAW file has changed and exactly how much of a crop was done, thank you!!! and all with a sense of humour that just encourages us to keep coming back. Have a wonderful festive season, hope the inspiration never fails.
Duade, I love watching you work! It’s cold and grey in my part of the US. Even so, when I’m out in nature, I hear you in my head…”where else would you want to be”. I’ll never see Australia in person, so these normal outings for you are priceless to me! I cared for my mother and father at the end of their lives, it really takes a toll on you physically and mentally. I know this isn’t the same as caring for a partner. Nature is the best medicine for the soul. Thank you for everything that you do. Sending you good thoughts.
Thanks Kelly, your words are very kind, I think caring for anyone is something we can never prepare for but when it happens your life will change forever. Often life throws us these experiences that you would never wish on another person but at the same time give you the lesson of what is important. That is to be kind, empathetic, loving and to treasure those times with loved ones. Take care and happy birding, Cheers, Duade
Beautiful and emotional video mate, with as always, some stunning photos. Shows very good that it's the person behind the camera that are most important. Best wishes for you and yours♥ Cheers, Bjoern
Keep the faith Duade, may God bless you and those in your care. Whether through your love of photography or your compassion for those in your life you are giving us such an excellent example, whether you know it or not, of how life in 2024 can still provide meaningful opportunities for those that need it to focus (no pun intended) on what really matters. (You and your family will be in my daily prayers brother.)
Thank you so much for the support, I really do apprecaite it. I agree thats lifes challenges are great lessons and reminders of what is important and helps me to be grateful for what I have and treasure the memories of the past. I am being positive about 2025 and the experiences and challenges it will bring. Cheers, Duade
Thanks as always for sharing this Duade, it is a terrific reminder of priorities. I’m sorry to hear of some of your challenges. Hoping you can still have a very Merry Christmas! With all best wishes…
Always love your enthusiasm Duade. Glad you get some time to follow your passion and keep your mental health. Your dedication to your partner and your craft is exemplary. Lovely video. Take care of yourself .
Hi Duade. Thank you for the video and the channel. It is one of my favorite photography channels on RUclips. I like those videos that reflect on the connections between photography, nature, and our lives, sometimes more than the technical ones. When I started with wildlife photography years ago, I noticed that just being there with the camera makes me feel closer to nature. Good luck with the coming year.
I'm so glad I found your channel because I've learned so much from you and your gear. I understand about getting "away" being in nature; I'm trying to think of a phrase, but it's not coming to mind. Thanks for being real. May God bless you and your loved ones. And keep shooting!! Love you!!
Thank you for sharing your experiences in spite of your circumstances. You’re incredibly inspirational! Whenever I see a new video from either you or Jan Wigner I immediately get excited. May God grant you the strength to continue to encourage others. Thank you!
Hi Duade. Thank you so much, that really was just the most beautiful video. Thank you for taking us out with you to the wonderful Winton Wetlands and showing what great images you can get with really quite basic gear by todays standards. Most importantly of all can I give my most sincere best wishes to you and your loved one for now, at this Christmas time, and for the future as well. John
Love this! Thank you so much for sharing. I don’t travel any further than my backyard around the farm. I love watching the horses and birds and kangaroos and rabbits and anything that moves and this time of year there are birds feeding babies everywhere! Your channel is down to earth and makes me feel anything is possible and any day with a camera is a great day!
That intro really got to me. I could not have put it into better words myself as to how I feel when I am out photographing wildlife. Thank you so much for doing what you do and showing that I am not alone in how I experience the joy of wildlife photography! Duade is one of the few people that I would really like to meet and go out photographing with one day, so this video was really awesome for me to feel like I was out there with him having a blast! I also really liked how you showed the RAW and edit together. It's really neat to see the whole process from you hitting the shutter to the final image. There were many important messages and lessons about life and photography. Every location nearby that I have been to is unique and special in its own way, and I don't think one needs to feel like it's necessary to travel in order to be a successful photographer. I think that having the knowledge of and connection to one's favorite area creates much more intimate and impactful photos. Best wishes for you and your loved ones Duade!
Thanks Matt, I really appreciate the comment and it made me smile, I think so many of us have the same feelings and experiences, maybe we just don't share or express them as well as we could. Have fun in your local area, sounds amazing. Cheers, Duade
Great video mate, thank you for once again sharing your joy and enthusiasm, if you never did another gear review I could happily watch videos like this 24/7. I know first hand your content has helped a lot of people who are struggling through difficult times, 100% appreciate your efforts. Best wishes to you and your family!
Duade you’re a wonderful man. I can say for complete certainty that your content brings joy to others. People may question things a times but… you do you mate! All the best from the UK!
It is snowy and cold winter in my country now. How good to see that somewhere on our planet the sun is shining and birds singing! Thank you, Duade, for sharing this with us
That was a great moment - you standing by the water saying 'I'm just waiting for something to happen', while i lie on my bed in New Zealand with a Scotch in my hand, yelling 'Behind you, behind you... turn around you fool!' So - my Border Collie, Fergus Au Fait, obviously thought i was talking to him and sprang off the bed and went hurtling out the door, scattering cats everywhere as he went. Anyway - great content. Loved the environment and the shots - particularly partial to the Roo snacking and the Fairy Wren who looked fabulous on the charred stump with that beautiful band of red foliage cutting across the background. Nice work! Cheers.
Love seeing you in your happy place. Quite liberating to just enjoy the moment and not be worried about anything else. That was the first lens I used for shooting birds, such a great piece of kit, and so light! A joy to use for sure.
Hi Duade, this video shows again, that we're doing the bird photography for the pure enjoy and happiness not for the gear. Sometimes we tend to overweight less important things and forget the real ones. All the happiness you gather during these sessions will help us to survive the rollercoaster of emotions on the tough days. I'm still in the "happy 40D owner's club" and I don't want to change it. Meanwhile here (Europe) we're in the grey winter season I'm bringing up the old pictures from 2009 till today and reprocessing the best ones with the current best softwares (DxO PureRaw + Lightroom) and I'm absolutely shocked how good output comes from 10Mpixel and mid-range lens. I'll take your habit and do one session every year with the old gear only. Thanks Duade, wish you good health and happy birding,
Thanks mate, great to hear you still have the 40D also. It has brought me a lot of joy so the least I can do is give it a run every now and again :-) Yes, I have also gone back and found some great shots I overlooked at the time. Cheers, Duade
Love your videos. Thanks for being a carer for your family. I love seeing a new video from you waiting for me to watch. It’s great that you go back to the same spots, and sometimes with old gear, proving that photography is about the journey and not the gear. Cheers.
G'day Duade. I fully agree our style of photography is good for mental health. And even watching your videos helps us in this corner ! I'm also having to take care a bit of my 82 year old mother, but I don't think it comes even close to how you're taking care of your loved one. Your words in this video give a deeper meaning to your earlier comments I should cherish sharing this passion with my wife .. Your composition of the fairy-wren at 12:30 is simply awesome !! And your swallow at 14:13 illustrates well the benefits of pre-capture and 40fps on your 40D 🙈 .. or was it simply natural talent outshining the latest tech 💪?? Warm greetings from cold and rainy Belgium for you and your loved one ❤
Thanks Werner, thanks for taking the time to share and yes caring for loved ones can be a challenge but at the same time I think it is special we have the ability to care for others who cared for us. Take care and enjoy your 2025. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for sharing this video, Duade. I like the approach here -- using your old gear to just get out and enjoy the day. I think people get way too caught up in the gear pursuit and forget about having fun and enjoying what you already have and more importantly what nature has to offer. I know I'm guilty of dreaming after new gear way to often only to find that I often most enjoy shooting with my older equipment anyway. Cheers.
Another thing I have learned in the last few years. I am not a wildlife photographer, but I love taking pictures of wildlife. When animals that may be common to me and the country I live in come around I don't really take many pictures of them because I see them everyday. But then I realized that yes, I see them everyday, but people outside of my country haven't so when you see a Kangaroo, please take pictures of them for me. I live in Suriname South America and that is one animal we don't have here. But also the other common birds and animals, most people from other countries may have never seen them.
It's worth taking pictures of animals (particularly birds) that you see every day. Get a good close-up of what is to you a common animal, and have a really good look at it. All of a sudden, you might perceive that animal in a completely different way, with renewed understanding. This especially applies to macro photography. Creatures you formerly considered commonplace suddenly become beautiful.
@@CrowPal thanks for the tip. I will do that. Macro photography is something I haven't been able to do yet, but it is something I hope to do. In the last few years, I have seen many different animals close to my house that I have never seen before and I grew up here. And I have been able to photograph some of them, which I am really happy to be able to do. Most of those pictures I have been using my Canon Rebel T5 with the Canon 55-250mm lens for. Some day I will get myself a good macro lens and enjoy that part of photography as well.
@@Duade you're welcome. It is a reminder for me as well. I hope some day to get some time free to go for a drive and take pictures of wildlife, but for now, kind of around my house, which living close to the jungle means I see many types of animals here. Another thing maybe you could focus on with common animals is behavior and trying to capture those different moments in their life. I look forward to more videos.
Thanks for this video, Duade. I wish the best for you and your partner. You really pushed the 40D's 10 MP to the max. I hope 2025 is a better year for you.
Duade, you are such a kind person and I'm so pleased that in spite of life's challenges you are able to get out, do what you love, and share it with us. Thanks for your generosity of spirit, and as always, for your great photos and your joyous spirit.
Thanks Duade, enjoyed your trip down memory lane with your old 40D. Understand what you say about being a primary carer - an often solitary journey. Have a good Xmas with your loved one and hang in there
Just want to wish you all the best. I hope mornings like this help you deal with the challenges you have right now. Finding your channel has been one of the highlights of my bird photography year. Thank you so much for making the time to give us your insights and advice. - Mick Thompson
Thanks Mick, I appreciate the support and yes, it was a wonderful morning and I am very grateful to have this channel and the support I do. Cheers, Duade
Nailing a Welcome Swallow in flight with a 40D... Not a simple thing and goes to show how good you are. Your comment about sharing the things with the people you love really hits home as my wife and I are in our retirement years but pretty active, but the little muscle niggles are becoming more prevalent as time marches on.
Thanks mate, Swallow was more luck than skill :-) And yes totally agree about spending as much time out with loved ones. Have fun out there, Cheers, Duade
You are truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing openly and reminding us to be thankful and there's so much more to art than the latest tech. Your beautiful work shines. God bless.
Beautiful video, Duade. I always enjoy these videos of you just getting out there and enjoying yourself. I'm sorry to hear about your loved ones' health. Being a carer is a hard thing to do and even harder when it's a loved one. Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year, Duade. I look forward to seeing your content next year. I enjoy being a member of your channel, knowing that I'm supporting such a great, down to earth bloke. Thanks Michael
Thanks Michael, I appreciate the support and kind words. Just seeing your beautiful Kingfisher made me smile. Take care and happy birding, Cheers, Duade
Wonderful Video, wonderful peaceful place to fotograph and enjoy the nature. Thank you Duade for sharing your thoughts and emotions with us. Good luck for your family and your future 🍀🍀🍀
The bush, with camera in hand, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature is my tonic. Glad you're able to recharge as well Duade, all the best mate !!!! 🤠😎
I enjoy learning from your outings than knowing what new gear is out. For a 3 year amateur photographer hobbyist, I get extremely discouraged on trying to sell my photos but I enjoy shooting just to share with my friends and dad even if I don't earn from shooting due to the fact that photography is over saturated and social media prioritized on being like Tik Tok. Thanks for sharing this outing.
Duade, this is completely awesome! When I moved to mirrorless earlier this year, I sold my 20D, 7D Mk II, and 1DX Mk III and my EF/EF-S lenses. However, I held on to my original DSLR, my 300D that I bought new in 2003. This is partly because it would get me maybe $5 in a trade-in, but mostly because it's just too much of an old friend to ditch. I also kept one EF-S lens, the 18-55 kit lens that came with the camera. They still work perfectly fine, and are great walk-around gear. I'm a musician by training, and learned a very expensive lesson about this back in the '80s: I got into terrible debt chasing the latest and greatest technology, and just as bad, I completely forgot the point of the gear: To make music! Once I got myself sorted out, I realized that there's no such thing as "obsolete", as long as your gear does what you need it to do. As an example, I held onto my very favorite synthesizer from 1992 until it finally went to digital heaven in 2020. (I have to admit, it was like losing a family member.) Keep up the great work, and Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Great video! Sorry your loved one is suffering like that. Thanks for sharing it helps people who are in similar situations. Knowing you aren't alone helps a lot. Going out birding the worst case scenario is just having a great time enjoying nature and missing the good photos. Getting a few great photos is a bonus!
Really powerful Duade. It's way too easy to assume that You Tube creators are living the dream life when it's obvious we all have the same issues, concerns, worries. I hope things improve for you in 2025. Thanks for all the videos, tips and inspiration you bring. Have a great xmas and new year, cheers!
Thanks Colin, I appreciate the support. Yes, we never really know what other people are going through so its important to be kind and emphatic with others. Cheers, Duade
Totally agree, the gear is just a tool to express yourself. Good gear just helps to make that process a little easier and allows more creativity. Cheers, Duade
I enjoy your channel very much for the photography insights but I comment today for another reason. I wish you the very best as you provide care for your loved one. I can only imagine what that entails from a physical and emotional perspective. Your message to do things with those you love while you are able has not fallen of deaf ears. Thank You Duade.
Thanks Doug, I appreciate the feedback, it is emotionally taxing that is for sure but through some therapy and support I am doing much better. Cheers, Duade
Very nice video as usual, Duade. I absolutely enjoy your work, your candor and your love of wildlife. I share your passion. Thanks for teaching me. I pray 2025 will bring more blessings to you and your loved ones… 🙏🏾🙏🏾
WOW! Those sulfur-crested cockatoos are my favorite birds I think! [Those pink ones in the Red Center are kool too though.] The images @ 3:30 and @4:10 so kool, then the bird in flight, did I already say wow? It doesn't even look like you had to crawl around in the mud very much! Good on ya taking care of your loved ones, touching and classy mention. I was also just imagining a Canon executive being proud that their 17 year-old camera is still taking images like that. Then I imagine the same executive going, oh sh*t.
Hi Duade, thankyou for another great video. No matter what equipment a person has, if they don't have the gift you so obviously have then they will find it hard work. I'm constantly blown away with the images you produce. All the very best for Xmas & 2025 to you & your loved one & I hope things improve for you Thanks again 👍
Always love your videos and thank you for producing them! I know you have been to that location many times and I can't get enough of it! Just an amazing place! Here is wishing you a Happy New Year and prayers for your loved one needing care.
Thanks for that Duade. Your field videos are so peaceful, relaxing. I was sorry to hear about your partner. Best of luck to both of you! I also like the message of getting out to local spots. You get to know the birds, and get better shots. I look forawrd to your 2025 videos!
Don't stop and keep going doing this channel and sharing your knowledge. It's important. Even showing such beautiful surroundings is nice, as we on the other side of the globe have snow, rain, and cold now. Thanks a lot.
Great video with a good message. This is something that has held me back for years from wildlife photography. I thought I had to have expensive glass and camera to produce images like yours. I have learned, now, that is so far from the truth. Love your videos! Thank you.
Always enjoy these style of videos Duade! I share a similar perspective on wildlife/photography as you do, like most viewers here, and the Winton Wetlands scenes remind me a ton of my local swamp photography spot along the Mississippi River. I may not have the best gear but I have the time of my life every time I get out there in the field to reconnect with nature. I hope you are doing alright these days and best wishes to you and your family this holiday season.
Duade, another great video. I concur on the calm down part when out in the wild and just being at a good birding spot and enjoying nature. Glad you got out and enjoyed nature. Totally understand the caregiving and wish that aspect of your life the best to you and your loved ones. Not easy, as I have been there. I wish you the very best in the upcoming New Year!
First of all, strength and good luck to you and your family. This video says everything about wildlife photography and any type of photography. And it really is, enjoy what you do, certainly not always chasing the latest material. I thank you Duade for your inspiring words and beautiful images Cheers from Belgium
Another great video, Duade! I appreciate the message about not traveling. Many people can't for a variety of reasons, and the YT culture sometimes makes it seem like you absolutely have to travel all over to get great photos. There's a lot to be said for just shooting in the same locations and seeing your progress over time. Thanks for sharing with us, Duade!
Hi Duade. Thank you for another fantastic video. I’m not a photographer, but my good friend is and he told me about your channel, knowing how much I love Australia, and I watched one video and became a subscriber. I’m a bird/parrot and animal lover, and I have a longstanding love for Australia. I especially love the cockatoos and how much joy you take in birding and photography. It is so inspiring to watch your videos and see how much you love what you do. I know it’s never easy being a caregiver and I send good thoughts to your loved one. Thank you for sharing that with us too. I wish you the best and look forward to your next video. G’Day!❤
It’s a old term and still holds true, the only camera you need is the one in your hand, creativity of the shot is so important as that’s the story and thank you for sharing your own story. Amazing photos for a cheap old camera 🤩🤩🤩🥳🥳🥳🥳
I remember when you were out and about and came across Derek Hinton. Always liked his channel. He was a character. Being a caretaker can be hard but anyone who does it with love is thankful for the chance to do so. Happy holidays and good health
Duade thanks for this video and other content. Had no idea until I saw this what you've been through this year. Sending best wishes to you and yours. All the best for 2025.
Being prime carers for one of our sons and a keen bird photographer, I can totally relate to this video. Keep up the great work. Thoroughly enjoy your work.
Everyone has a story and a context for their interests and passions. Thank you for sharing yours - it makes all the difference. So very glad that you have something that you enjoy so much. All the best to you and your family for the coming year.
Duade, during late 2019 I was tested for a life threatening disease fortunately the results came negetive! Believe me when I say this your "For gratitude, thankful for being alive" just hits different for me personally...Merry christmas in advance🎄💚
I loved this video as I do any of your videos where you are out shooting. The joy and excitement you let us share as you are shooting helps me and makes me want to get out and shoot more. My husband had a massive hemorrhagic stroke 13 years ago at the age of 46 which left him disabled an unable to do the things we used to enjoy together. Photography is one of those things. So when I get to go out I almost feel guilty but he enjoys serving what I capture and photography helps me deal with the stress and depression of being the sole provider for my family. My husband is partially paralyzed on his right side and has no use of his right arm and hand. This year I purchased a used Canon 7D Mark II and with it set on a tripod with a gimbal head he can take photos again from a seated position. It is a joy when we can go out together and he can photograph the birds and animals we love. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved one. Blessings to you this Holiday Season.
Thanks a million Duade for this heart-warming and fantastic vlog. I love older gear and often take out my 40D with a 70-200 f/4 L for the sheer enjoyment of hearing that shutter and trying to capture something in the mid-distance.
This was such a great watch, thank you! The images you got are beautiful, and the cockatoos - how lucky were you?!! The kangaroo scenes are fab too. I am still able to get out but I only feel happy in my own local area and never travel, so similar to you, but different reason, for revisiting old favourite places. (And yours look so much more interesting than mine!!) More like this video would be wonderful. I love the Australian birds and creatures - SO different from our UK selection!
Been watching your channel a long time. This just nails it, its not about gear, its about being in the moment and enjoy nature and wildlife. Merry Christmas to you
Another perfect example of how to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. Just pure enjoyment. Take care of your loved one, yourself and everything else is a bonus.😸
Loved this video, Duade! I know you have to do gear reviews (and, I enjoy those, too), but I wish all your videos could be like this one! Great following along with your outings where you live, such a change of scenery from the eastern U.S. Just curious: do you have to be extra careful due to venomous snakes? I know Australia has plenty of them.. Also, my hat's off to you for your obvious love for the person in your life who needs special care.
Hey mate, this is by far your best video! You showed us your heart and passion for photography. As an old 7D Mk II shooter, you repeatedly proved that you don't need high-end gear to make gorgeous photos. There's nothing better than using your skills and intuitive sense to capture these beautiful birds in flight and play. Bravo, my friend. We'll keep the light on for you. I hope all goes well for you and your loved one.
Duade, you're an inspiration to us aspiring bird photographers. You make richer videos because they express your love for life and care for others. It's not about gear but about how photography complements and expresses your journey in life. That element makes your videos so special. We, your viewers and subscribers learn about your selflessness and people you care about more with each video. I met my wife when I was a club photographer at university. She has encouraged me to get back into photography in my later years. Then she passed away and I swear I would never pick up my camera again. But somehow i remembered what she said to me. It was a year after her death I thought I should get into bird photography. To me, meeting the birds is a spiritual experience that brings me excitement and renewed hope.
Hey mate, thanks for sharing your story and sorry to hear of your loss, grief is one of the hardest emotions for us as humans to cope with. I was reflecting on losing my photography friend Matt and how we would have loved that session together and then had a wonderful cup of coffee talking about life and photography. I treasure those memories and just wish I could create a few more. Life is a strange old thing the way it creeps up on you and all of sudden it takes a turn you didnt expect but your life will forever be changed by it. I guess the challenge for everyone who has grief or loss is working out how to continue in a meaningful way. Getting joy or even allowing joy can be a challenge and I am happy to hear you seem to be allowing it back into your life. Take care mate and happy birding. Cheers, Duade
Wow! I really enjoyed every bit of this short video. I've been following your channel for a while now. You are amazing. The way you talk and explain about photography is so good. Nothing complicated. I'm sure, after watching this video, every new photographer/enthusiast will definitely go out and enjoy taking photos of the nature/landscape etc. I love taking pictures of the birds too. In my very small garden and when I'm out and about. My camera is always with me. 😄 Thank you once again for sharing your experience and advice! You mentioned that you look after someone. My best wishes are with you and your family to be healthy. Stay blessed always 🙏🏼
I have to congradulate you for your BIF shots with that camera. Not an easy task. Your enthusiasm once again comes through. I hope the new year is good to you.
Amazing video Duade! Thank you very much for sharing and thank you for all the content you have made over the years. Your channel is by far my favorite wildlife photography channel on youtube, there's nothing like a good in the field wildlife trip or gear review with Duade. Every time I watch one of your videos I always feel motivated to try new things and get creative with photography and it's helped me quite a lot in getting to where I am now especially from watching the tips & tricks videos. I wish you and your loved ones all the best. Thank you
This is exactly the type of content I love the most from you. I'm glad that my main goal out in the field is still to enjoy the time there and you help me to keep that in mind. Thank you.
I've always enjoyed your videos. I considered you one of my mentors as I was getting into this a few years ago. I'm sorry to hear you have a loved one who is struggling. Prayers and positive thoughts.
Hi Duade , thank you for yet another cracking video, very thought provoking - I have to admit it even brought a tear to my eye. I started with a 30D ( then a 40D which I still have) and have worked my way over the years through the Canon system and now have an R5 mkii. Sitting here with a F10 gale going on and pouring rain, I envy your weather. Best wishes from a very stormy Shetland UK.
Thanks for taking the time to comment I appreciate it. Great to hear you also have the 40D. It is 42 degrees today so I would take the cooler weather, maybe not the rain and wind though ;-) Cheers, Duade
Duade, this video was fantastic! I've owned almost every Canon APS-C DSLR since and including the D30 (no, not the 30D...there really was a D30 (3MP IIRC) followed by the D60, which was then followed by the 10D and up). My wife now has my old 40D, but it was one of my favorite bodies. This video not only proved that a skilled, educated photographer can make great images with almost any camera and does not need the latest, greatest, most expensive toy out there. It was also inspirational in giving us the KITA to just get out there and have fun. The smile on your face and the excited tone of your voice say it all! Keep 'em coming!
11:17 ❤❤❤ Same here. I’m a father to a severely disabled child. I can explore what’s within a radius of ~2 hours of driving at most.
Credit to you, it is never easy. I'm glad to hear you are able to explore your local areas. Take care and happy birding, Cheers, Duade
I enjoy these outings more than the gear reviews. I’m not in the market for new gear so I love this. Nice to see you do too.
Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Hey Duade. Thank you so much for this video and all the content you put out. This one has really struck a chord especially on an emotional side.
I absolutely love winton and was able to visit on my last trip last year and you pointed me in the right direction of places to go when I emailed you so I want to thank you personally for that. It will be a while before I’m able to travel back there due to health reasons but I hope when I do I’ll be able to bump into you for a bit of birding fun. Thanks again for sharing your journey with us and being real. This by far makes you the best at what you do and why I’m sure it strikes such a chord with so many of us. Good health and happiness to you and your loved ones. Thank you.
Thanks for the kind words and feedback, I really do appreciate it. So glad you had a good time there. Be sure to reach out next time you visit and I hope your own health journey is going well. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade thanks Duade, I’ll certainly be in touch. Hopefully the grey skies will clear over the Xmas period here in the uk so I can get out and get shooting. Thanks again and stay strong. Cheers Mark.
Great Video! It's a very grey Winter's day here in Germany, I'm jealous of the light you have! I've sold all my mirrorless gear and kept my 'retro' stuff (5D Mk2) I use photography for my mental balance.
Haha, I've just been out with my 5d mkii with a pentacon 50mm 1.8, something nice about the clunkiness... I'm sure optical viewfinders are better for your mental health!
👍
Interessante Kombination... ;-)@@Wilbafarce
Thanks for the feedback, yes, something unique about shooting on a DSLR. Cheers, Duade
A field trip with Duade is always fun. And as you’ve proved again and again it’s not the gear but the person behind the camera who takes the great pictures while enjoying what they do. 👍👍👍
Thanks for the support, Cheers, Duade
Duade - Thank you so much for sharing your human-ness with your viewers. Your love of birds and photography is refreshing. I hope, pray and wish the best for you and your love-ones.
Thanks Mark, I apprecaite the support, Cheers, Duade
I truly love watching your videos, there aren't many folks that combine all the elements of passion, knowledge, photography skills and stunning images that even show how much the RAW file has changed and exactly how much of a crop was done, thank you!!! and all with a sense of humour that just encourages us to keep coming back. Have a wonderful festive season, hope the inspiration never fails.
Thanks Sarah, Cheers, Duade
Duade, I love watching you work! It’s cold and grey in my part of the US. Even so, when I’m out in nature, I hear you in my head…”where else would you want to be”. I’ll never see Australia in person, so these normal outings for you are priceless to me! I cared for my mother and father at the end of their lives, it really takes a toll on you physically and mentally. I know this isn’t the same as caring for a partner. Nature is the best medicine for the soul. Thank you for everything that you do. Sending you good thoughts.
Thanks Kelly, your words are very kind, I think caring for anyone is something we can never prepare for but when it happens your life will change forever. Often life throws us these experiences that you would never wish on another person but at the same time give you the lesson of what is important. That is to be kind, empathetic, loving and to treasure those times with loved ones. Take care and happy birding, Cheers, Duade
Beautiful and emotional video mate, with as always, some stunning photos. Shows very good that it's the person behind the camera that are most important. Best wishes for you and yours♥
Cheers, Bjoern
👍
Thanks mate, I apprecaite the ongoing support, happy birding. Cheers, Duade
Keep the faith Duade, may God bless you and those in your care. Whether through your love of photography or your compassion for those in your life you are giving us such an excellent example, whether you know it or not, of how life in 2024 can still provide meaningful opportunities for those that need it to focus (no pun intended) on what really matters. (You and your family will be in my daily prayers brother.)
Thank you so much for the support, I really do apprecaite it. I agree thats lifes challenges are great lessons and reminders of what is important and helps me to be grateful for what I have and treasure the memories of the past. I am being positive about 2025 and the experiences and challenges it will bring. Cheers, Duade
Thanks as always for sharing this Duade, it is a terrific reminder of priorities. I’m sorry to hear of some of your challenges. Hoping you can still have a very Merry Christmas! With all best wishes…
Thanks Ben, Cheers, Duade
Always love your enthusiasm Duade. Glad you get some time to follow your passion and keep your mental health. Your dedication to your partner and your craft is exemplary. Lovely video. Take care of yourself .
Thanks Martin, I appreciate the support, Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thank you for the video and the channel. It is one of my favorite photography channels on RUclips. I like those videos that reflect on the connections between photography, nature, and our lives, sometimes more than the technical ones. When I started with wildlife photography years ago, I noticed that just being there with the camera makes me feel closer to nature. Good luck with the coming year.
Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
I'm so glad I found your channel because I've learned so much from you and your gear. I understand about getting "away" being in nature; I'm trying to think of a phrase, but it's not coming to mind. Thanks for being real. May God bless you and your loved ones. And keep shooting!! Love you!!
Thank you for the support Rhonda, I really do appreciate it. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for sharing your experiences in spite of your circumstances. You’re incredibly inspirational! Whenever I see a new video from either you or Jan Wigner I immediately get excited. May God grant you the strength to continue to encourage others. Thank you!
Thanks Jay, Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thank you so much, that really was just the most beautiful video. Thank you for taking us out with you to the wonderful Winton Wetlands and showing what great images you can get with really quite basic gear by todays standards.
Most importantly of all can I give my most sincere best wishes to you and your loved one for now, at this Christmas time, and for the future as well. John
Thanks John, I apprecaite the ongoing support and kind words. I also wish you the best going forward. Cheers, Duade
Love this! Thank you so much for sharing.
I don’t travel any further than my backyard around the farm. I love watching the horses and birds and kangaroos and rabbits and anything that moves and this time of year there are birds feeding babies everywhere!
Your channel is down to earth and makes me feel anything is possible and any day with a camera is a great day!
Thanks Julie, yes, the outdoors is a great treatment and I need to do more of it to be honest. Cheers, Duade
That intro really got to me. I could not have put it into better words myself as to how I feel when I am out photographing wildlife. Thank you so much for doing what you do and showing that I am not alone in how I experience the joy of wildlife photography! Duade is one of the few people that I would really like to meet and go out photographing with one day, so this video was really awesome for me to feel like I was out there with him having a blast!
I also really liked how you showed the RAW and edit together. It's really neat to see the whole process from you hitting the shutter to the final image. There were many important messages and lessons about life and photography. Every location nearby that I have been to is unique and special in its own way, and I don't think one needs to feel like it's necessary to travel in order to be a successful photographer. I think that having the knowledge of and connection to one's favorite area creates much more intimate and impactful photos.
Best wishes for you and your loved ones Duade!
Thanks Matt, I really appreciate the comment and it made me smile, I think so many of us have the same feelings and experiences, maybe we just don't share or express them as well as we could. Have fun in your local area, sounds amazing. Cheers, Duade
Great video mate, thank you for once again sharing your joy and enthusiasm, if you never did another gear review I could happily watch videos like this 24/7. I know first hand your content has helped a lot of people who are struggling through difficult times, 100% appreciate your efforts. Best wishes to you and your family!
Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Mate, have been following you for years. This one was one of your best. Thanks for always keeping it so real.
Thanks Robert, I appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Duade you’re a wonderful man. I can say for complete certainty that your content brings joy to others. People may question things a times but… you do you mate! All the best from the UK!
It is snowy and cold winter in my country now. How good to see that somewhere on our planet the sun is shining and birds singing! Thank you, Duade, for sharing this with us
That was a great moment - you standing by the water saying 'I'm just waiting for something to happen', while i lie on my bed in New Zealand with a Scotch in my hand, yelling 'Behind you, behind you... turn around you fool!' So - my Border Collie, Fergus Au Fait, obviously thought i was talking to him and sprang off the bed and went hurtling out the door, scattering cats everywhere as he went. Anyway - great content. Loved the environment and the shots - particularly partial to the Roo snacking and the Fairy Wren who looked fabulous on the charred stump with that beautiful band of red foliage cutting across the background. Nice work! Cheers.
Thanks for the comment and sorry to set the dog off lol, yes, I missed that moment. Glad you enjoyed the shots, Cheers, Duade
Love seeing you in your happy place. Quite liberating to just enjoy the moment and not be worried about anything else. That was the first lens I used for shooting birds, such a great piece of kit, and so light! A joy to use for sure.
Thanks mate, it sure was a great outing, Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade, this video shows again, that we're doing the bird photography for the pure enjoy and happiness not for the gear. Sometimes we tend to overweight less important things and forget the real ones. All the happiness you gather during these sessions will help us to survive the rollercoaster of emotions on the tough days.
I'm still in the "happy 40D owner's club" and I don't want to change it. Meanwhile here (Europe) we're in the grey winter season I'm bringing up the old pictures from 2009 till today and reprocessing the best ones with the current best softwares (DxO PureRaw + Lightroom) and I'm absolutely shocked how good output comes from 10Mpixel and mid-range lens. I'll take your habit and do one session every year with the old gear only. Thanks Duade, wish you good health and happy birding,
Thanks mate, great to hear you still have the 40D also. It has brought me a lot of joy so the least I can do is give it a run every now and again :-) Yes, I have also gone back and found some great shots I overlooked at the time. Cheers, Duade
Great video and shots! This video shows me that the 40d is more than capable to do bird photography. I wish you health to your loved one too.
Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Love your videos. Thanks for being a carer for your family.
I love seeing a new video from you waiting for me to watch. It’s great that you go back to the same spots, and sometimes with old gear, proving that photography is about the journey and not the gear.
Cheers.
Thanks Jeffrey, Cheers, Duade
G'day Duade. I fully agree our style of photography is good for mental health. And even watching your videos helps us in this corner ! I'm also having to take care a bit of my 82 year old mother, but I don't think it comes even close to how you're taking care of your loved one. Your words in this video give a deeper meaning to your earlier comments I should cherish sharing this passion with my wife ..
Your composition of the fairy-wren at 12:30 is simply awesome !! And your swallow at 14:13 illustrates well the benefits of pre-capture and 40fps on your 40D 🙈 .. or was it simply natural talent outshining the latest tech 💪??
Warm greetings from cold and rainy Belgium for you and your loved one ❤
Thanks Werner, thanks for taking the time to share and yes caring for loved ones can be a challenge but at the same time I think it is special we have the ability to care for others who cared for us. Take care and enjoy your 2025. Cheers, Duade
Thank you for sharing this video, Duade. I like the approach here -- using your old gear to just get out and enjoy the day. I think people get way too caught up in the gear pursuit and forget about having fun and enjoying what you already have and more importantly what nature has to offer. I know I'm guilty of dreaming after new gear way to often only to find that I often most enjoy shooting with my older equipment anyway. Cheers.
Thanks for the feedback, I apprecaite it, Cheers, Duade
Another thing I have learned in the last few years. I am not a wildlife photographer, but I love taking pictures of wildlife. When animals that may be common to me and the country I live in come around I don't really take many pictures of them because I see them everyday. But then I realized that yes, I see them everyday, but people outside of my country haven't so when you see a Kangaroo, please take pictures of them for me. I live in Suriname South America and that is one animal we don't have here. But also the other common birds and animals, most people from other countries may have never seen them.
It's worth taking pictures of animals (particularly birds) that you see every day. Get a good close-up of what is to you a common animal, and have a really good look at it. All of a sudden, you might perceive that animal in a completely different way, with renewed understanding. This especially applies to macro photography. Creatures you formerly considered commonplace suddenly become beautiful.
@@CrowPal thanks for the tip. I will do that. Macro photography is something I haven't been able to do yet, but it is something I hope to do. In the last few years, I have seen many different animals close to my house that I have never seen before and I grew up here. And I have been able to photograph some of them, which I am really happy to be able to do. Most of those pictures I have been using my Canon Rebel T5 with the Canon 55-250mm lens for. Some day I will get myself a good macro lens and enjoy that part of photography as well.
Thanks Mikey, very true, we often take things for granted. Galahs are super common but are so beautiful. Thanks for the reminder. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade you're welcome. It is a reminder for me as well. I hope some day to get some time free to go for a drive and take pictures of wildlife, but for now, kind of around my house, which living close to the jungle means I see many types of animals here. Another thing maybe you could focus on with common animals is behavior and trying to capture those different moments in their life. I look forward to more videos.
Thanks for this video, Duade. I wish the best for you and your partner. You really pushed the 40D's 10 MP to the max. I hope 2025 is a better year for you.
Thanks mate, Cheers, Duade
Duade, you are such a kind person and I'm so pleased that in spite of life's challenges you are able to get out, do what you love, and share it with us. Thanks for your generosity of spirit, and as always, for your great photos and your joyous spirit.
Thanks for the lovely comment, Cheers, Duade
Your enjoyment of the moment is what makes your channel one of the best on RUclips! Thank you for sharing.
My pleasure, Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duade, enjoyed your trip down memory lane with your old 40D. Understand what you say about being a primary carer - an often solitary journey. Have a good Xmas with your loved one and hang in there
Thanks for the support and kind words, I do apprecaite it. Yes, being a carer can be very isolating for sure. Cheers, Duade
Just want to wish you all the best. I hope mornings like this help you deal with the challenges you have right now. Finding your channel has been one of the highlights of my bird photography year. Thank you so much for making the time to give us your insights and advice. - Mick Thompson
Thanks Mick, I appreciate the support and yes, it was a wonderful morning and I am very grateful to have this channel and the support I do. Cheers, Duade
Nailing a Welcome Swallow in flight with a 40D... Not a simple thing and goes to show how good you are.
Your comment about sharing the things with the people you love really hits home as my wife and I are in our retirement years but pretty active, but the little muscle niggles are becoming more prevalent as time marches on.
Thanks mate, Swallow was more luck than skill :-) And yes totally agree about spending as much time out with loved ones. Have fun out there, Cheers, Duade
You are truly an inspiration. Thank you for sharing openly and reminding us to be thankful and there's so much more to art than the latest tech. Your beautiful work shines. God bless.
Beautiful video, Duade. I always enjoy these videos of you just getting out there and enjoying yourself. I'm sorry to hear about your loved ones' health. Being a carer is a hard thing to do and even harder when it's a loved one. Have a merry Christmas and a happy new year, Duade. I look forward to seeing your content next year. I enjoy being a member of your channel, knowing that I'm supporting such a great, down to earth bloke. Thanks Michael
Thanks Michael, I appreciate the support and kind words. Just seeing your beautiful Kingfisher made me smile. Take care and happy birding, Cheers, Duade
Watched this video, straight after packed my camera gear and heading out tomorrow to go and enjoy nature.
Thank you Duade...your intro says it all...why bird and why photography...❤
Thank you, Duade. Your honest approach to photography and life is a great source of inspiration. I wish you all the best! Cheers!
Wonderful Video, wonderful peaceful place to fotograph and enjoy the nature. Thank you Duade for sharing your thoughts and emotions with us. Good luck for your family and your future 🍀🍀🍀
Great video Duade, and great to see you out there again. 👏🤝
Thanks Chris, it was a lot of fun, Cheers, Duade
The bush, with camera in hand, enjoying the sights, sounds and smells of nature is my tonic. Glad you're able to recharge as well Duade, all the best mate !!!! 🤠😎
I enjoy learning from your outings than knowing what new gear is out. For a 3 year amateur photographer hobbyist, I get extremely discouraged on trying to sell my photos but I enjoy shooting just to share with my friends and dad even if I don't earn from shooting due to the fact that photography is over saturated and social media prioritized on being like Tik Tok. Thanks for sharing this outing.
Thanks for the feedback, yes, it is a good reminder to just head out and enjoy oneself. Cheers, Duade
Duade, this is completely awesome! When I moved to mirrorless earlier this year, I sold my 20D, 7D Mk II, and 1DX Mk III and my EF/EF-S lenses. However, I held on to my original DSLR, my 300D that I bought new in 2003. This is partly because it would get me maybe $5 in a trade-in, but mostly because it's just too much of an old friend to ditch. I also kept one EF-S lens, the 18-55 kit lens that came with the camera. They still work perfectly fine, and are great walk-around gear.
I'm a musician by training, and learned a very expensive lesson about this back in the '80s: I got into terrible debt chasing the latest and greatest technology, and just as bad, I completely forgot the point of the gear: To make music! Once I got myself sorted out, I realized that there's no such thing as "obsolete", as long as your gear does what you need it to do. As an example, I held onto my very favorite synthesizer from 1992 until it finally went to digital heaven in 2020. (I have to admit, it was like losing a family member.)
Keep up the great work, and Happy Holidays to you and yours!
Thanks for taking the time to comment, I enjoyed reading it. Great lessons there. Cheers, Duade
Merry Christmas to you and your wife have a good one mate.👍🙂🙂
Great video! Sorry your loved one is suffering like that. Thanks for sharing it helps people who are in similar situations. Knowing you aren't alone helps a lot. Going out birding the worst case scenario is just having a great time enjoying nature and missing the good photos. Getting a few great photos is a bonus!
Thanks for the comment and what a great perspective, worst case scenario is a wonderful day out in nature :-) Sounds good to me. Cheers, Duade
Yep, went out for a photo excursion yesterday. Today is a recovery day watching your excursion.
Great to hear, Cheers, Duade
Really powerful Duade. It's way too easy to assume that You Tube creators are living the dream life when it's obvious we all have the same issues, concerns, worries. I hope things improve for you in 2025. Thanks for all the videos, tips and inspiration you bring. Have a great xmas and new year, cheers!
Thanks Colin, I appreciate the support. Yes, we never really know what other people are going through so its important to be kind and emphatic with others. Cheers, Duade
Appreciate your reminder that so much of quality photos is about our technique, when, where, time of day and luck to get THAT photo capture.
Totally agree, the gear is just a tool to express yourself. Good gear just helps to make that process a little easier and allows more creativity. Cheers, Duade
I enjoy your channel very much for the photography insights but I comment today for another reason. I wish you the very best as you provide care for your loved one. I can only imagine what that entails from a physical and emotional perspective. Your message to do things with those you love while you are able has not fallen of deaf ears. Thank You Duade.
Thanks Doug, I appreciate the feedback, it is emotionally taxing that is for sure but through some therapy and support I am doing much better. Cheers, Duade
Thanks Duade. Your videos bring me joy and I have learned a lot from watching you. All the best to you and your family.
Thanks mate, I appreciate the support, Cheers, Duade
Very nice video as usual, Duade. I absolutely enjoy your work, your candor and your love of wildlife. I share your passion. Thanks for teaching me. I pray 2025 will bring more blessings to you and your loved ones… 🙏🏾🙏🏾
Thanks Rich, I appreciate the support, Cheers, Duade
WOW! Those sulfur-crested cockatoos are my favorite birds I think! [Those pink ones in the Red Center are kool too though.] The images @ 3:30 and @4:10 so kool, then the bird in flight, did I already say wow? It doesn't even look like you had to crawl around in the mud very much! Good on ya taking care of your loved ones, touching and classy mention. I was also just imagining a Canon executive being proud that their 17 year-old camera is still taking images like that. Then I imagine the same executive going, oh sh*t.
Hi Duade, thankyou for another great video. No matter what equipment a person has, if they don't have the gift you so obviously have then they will find it hard work. I'm constantly blown away with the images you produce.
All the very best for Xmas & 2025 to you & your loved one & I hope things improve for you
Thanks again 👍
Thanks George, I appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Always love your videos and thank you for producing them! I know you have been to that location many times and I can't get enough of it! Just an amazing place! Here is wishing you a Happy New Year and prayers for your loved one needing care.
Such a beautifully peaceful video, Duade. You've captured the essence of your mood and message perfectly!
Thanks for that Duade. Your field videos are so peaceful, relaxing. I was sorry to hear about your partner. Best of luck to both of you! I also like the message of getting out to local spots. You get to know the birds, and get better shots. I look forawrd to your 2025 videos!
Another honest and fantastic vlog, Merry Xmas to you and your loved ones Duade. Keep the videos coming in 2025.
All the best Duade, take care.
Don't stop and keep going doing this channel and sharing your knowledge. It's important. Even showing such beautiful surroundings is nice, as we on the other side of the globe have snow, rain, and cold now. Thanks a lot.
Thanks for the feedback and encouragement, Cheers, Duade
I can feel that shutter sound 🥰🥰
Great video with a good message. This is something that has held me back for years from wildlife photography. I thought I had to have expensive glass and camera to produce images like yours. I have learned, now, that is so far from the truth. Love your videos! Thank you.
Thanks for the feedback and yes, you can get amazing wildlife shots from more affordable gear. Cheers, Duade
Thank you, Duade! Love your videos. All the best.
Always enjoy these style of videos Duade! I share a similar perspective on wildlife/photography as you do, like most viewers here, and the Winton Wetlands scenes remind me a ton of my local swamp photography spot along the Mississippi River. I may not have the best gear but I have the time of my life every time I get out there in the field to reconnect with nature. I hope you are doing alright these days and best wishes to you and your family this holiday season.
Love this Duade. Merry Christmas to you all
Duade, another great video. I concur on the calm down part when out in the wild and just being at a good birding spot and enjoying nature. Glad you got out and enjoyed nature. Totally understand the caregiving and wish that aspect of your life the best to you and your loved ones. Not easy, as I have been there. I wish you the very best in the upcoming New Year!
Thanks Bruce for the comment and understanding, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade
First of all, strength and good luck to you and your family.
This video says everything about wildlife photography and any type of photography.
And it really is, enjoy what you do, certainly not always chasing the latest material.
I thank you Duade for your inspiring words and beautiful images
Cheers from Belgium
Amazing joy to watch the video Duade,the displaying cockatoos photo stunning!
Another great video, Duade! I appreciate the message about not traveling. Many people can't for a variety of reasons, and the YT culture sometimes makes it seem like you absolutely have to travel all over to get great photos. There's a lot to be said for just shooting in the same locations and seeing your progress over time. Thanks for sharing with us, Duade!
Thanks for the comment, great point and worth reminding myself of at times. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thank you for another fantastic video. I’m not a photographer, but my good friend is and he told me about your channel, knowing how much I love Australia, and I watched one video and became a subscriber. I’m a bird/parrot and animal lover, and I have a longstanding love for Australia. I especially love the cockatoos and how much joy you take in birding and photography. It is so inspiring to watch your videos and see how much you love what you do. I know it’s never easy being a caregiver and I send good thoughts to your loved one. Thank you for sharing that with us too. I wish you the best and look forward to your next video. G’Day!❤
It’s a old term and still holds true, the only camera you need is the one in your hand, creativity of the shot is so important as that’s the story and thank you for sharing your own story. Amazing photos for a cheap old camera 🤩🤩🤩🥳🥳🥳🥳
You are one of the pure hearted gems of RUclips!
I remember when you were out and about and came across Derek Hinton. Always liked his channel. He was a character.
Being a caretaker can be hard but anyone who does it with love is thankful for the chance to do so.
Happy holidays and good health
Thanks John, I appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Duade thanks for this video and other content. Had no idea until I saw this what you've been through this year. Sending best wishes to you and yours. All the best for 2025.
Being prime carers for one of our sons and a keen bird photographer, I can totally relate to this video. Keep up the great work. Thoroughly enjoy your work.
Thanks Steve, I appreciate the comment, being a carer is a tough but rewarding responsibility. Take care, Duade
Everyone has a story and a context for their interests and passions. Thank you for sharing yours - it makes all the difference. So very glad that you have something that you enjoy so much. All the best to you and your family for the coming year.
Duade, during late 2019 I was tested for a life threatening disease fortunately the results came negetive! Believe me when I say this your "For gratitude, thankful for being alive" just hits different for me personally...Merry christmas in advance🎄💚
Glad to hear the outcome was positive, yes, we sometimes need these experiences to remind ourselves of what is important. Cheers, Duade
Excellent Video. All the very best to you.
I loved this video as I do any of your videos where you are out shooting. The joy and excitement you let us share as you are shooting helps me and makes me want to get out and shoot more. My husband had a massive hemorrhagic stroke 13 years ago at the age of 46 which left him disabled an unable to do the things we used to enjoy together. Photography is one of those things. So when I get to go out I almost feel guilty but he enjoys serving what I capture and photography helps me deal with the stress and depression of being the sole provider for my family. My husband is partially paralyzed on his right side and has no use of his right arm and hand. This year I purchased a used Canon 7D Mark II and with it set on a tripod with a gimbal head he can take photos again from a seated position. It is a joy when we can go out together and he can photograph the birds and animals we love. My thoughts and prayers are with you and your loved one. Blessings to you this Holiday Season.
Thanks a million Duade for this heart-warming and fantastic vlog. I love older gear and often take out my 40D with a 70-200 f/4 L for the sheer enjoyment of hearing that shutter and trying to capture something in the mid-distance.
This was such a great watch, thank you! The images you got are beautiful, and the cockatoos - how lucky were you?!! The kangaroo scenes are fab too. I am still able to get out but I only feel happy in my own local area and never travel, so similar to you, but different reason, for revisiting old favourite places. (And yours look so much more interesting than mine!!) More like this video would be wonderful. I love the Australian birds and creatures - SO different from our UK selection!
Been watching your channel a long time. This just nails it, its not about gear, its about being in the moment and enjoy nature and wildlife. Merry Christmas to you
Thanks Morten, I apprecaite the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Another perfect example of how to enjoy yourself without breaking the bank. Just pure enjoyment. Take care of your loved one, yourself and everything else is a bonus.😸
Thanks Kevan, Cheers, Duade
Duade is the epitome of a gentleman. God Bless!
Thanks Christopher, you are too kind, Cheers, Duade
Another great outing. Thanks for letting us be part of your adventures.
Loved this video, Duade! I know you have to do gear reviews (and, I enjoy those, too), but I wish all your videos could be like this one! Great following along with your outings where you live, such a change of scenery from the eastern U.S. Just curious: do you have to be extra careful due to venomous snakes? I know Australia has plenty of them.. Also, my hat's off to you for your obvious love for the person in your life who needs special care.
Hey mate, this is by far your best video! You showed us your heart and passion for photography. As an old 7D Mk II shooter, you repeatedly proved that you don't need high-end gear to make gorgeous photos. There's nothing better than using your skills and intuitive sense to capture these beautiful birds in flight and play. Bravo, my friend. We'll keep the light on for you. I hope all goes well for you and your loved one.
Duade, you're an inspiration to us aspiring bird photographers. You make richer videos because they express your love for life and care for others. It's not about gear but about how photography complements and expresses your journey in life. That element makes your videos so special. We, your viewers and subscribers learn about your selflessness and people you care about more with each video. I met my wife when I was a club photographer at university. She has encouraged me to get back into photography in my later years. Then she passed away and I swear I would never pick up my camera again. But somehow i remembered what she said to me. It was a year after her death I thought I should get into bird photography. To me, meeting the birds is a spiritual experience that brings me excitement and renewed hope.
Hey mate, thanks for sharing your story and sorry to hear of your loss, grief is one of the hardest emotions for us as humans to cope with. I was reflecting on losing my photography friend Matt and how we would have loved that session together and then had a wonderful cup of coffee talking about life and photography.
I treasure those memories and just wish I could create a few more. Life is a strange old thing the way it creeps up on you and all of sudden it takes a turn you didnt expect but your life will forever be changed by it.
I guess the challenge for everyone who has grief or loss is working out how to continue in a meaningful way. Getting joy or even allowing joy can be a challenge and I am happy to hear you seem to be allowing it back into your life. Take care mate and happy birding. Cheers, Duade
Wow! I really enjoyed every bit of this short video. I've been following your channel for a while now. You are amazing. The way you talk and explain about photography is so good. Nothing complicated. I'm sure, after watching this video, every new photographer/enthusiast will definitely go out and enjoy taking photos of the nature/landscape etc. I love taking pictures of the birds too. In my very small garden and when I'm out and about. My camera is always with me. 😄 Thank you once again for sharing your experience and advice! You mentioned that you look after someone. My best wishes are with you and your family to be healthy. Stay blessed always 🙏🏼
I have to congradulate you for your BIF shots with that camera. Not an easy task. Your enthusiasm once again comes through. I hope the new year is good to you.
Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
You're an inspiration. Thankyou for impacting my journey positively. Your humility is unparalleled. Keep strong, keep shooting.
Amazing video Duade! Thank you very much for sharing and thank you for all the content you have made over the years. Your channel is by far my favorite wildlife photography channel on youtube, there's nothing like a good in the field wildlife trip or gear review with Duade. Every time I watch one of your videos I always feel motivated to try new things and get creative with photography and it's helped me quite a lot in getting to where I am now especially from watching the tips & tricks videos. I wish you and your loved ones all the best. Thank you
Gracias por compartir y por ser tan humano !!
This is exactly the type of content I love the most from you. I'm glad that my main goal out in the field is still to enjoy the time there and you help me to keep that in mind. Thank you.
I've always enjoyed your videos. I considered you one of my mentors as I was getting into this a few years ago. I'm sorry to hear you have a loved one who is struggling. Prayers and positive thoughts.
Hi Duade , thank you for yet another cracking video, very thought provoking - I have to admit it even brought a tear to my eye. I started with a 30D ( then a 40D which I still have) and have worked my way over the years through the Canon system and now have an R5 mkii. Sitting here with a F10 gale going on and pouring rain, I envy your weather. Best wishes from a very stormy Shetland UK.
Thanks for taking the time to comment I appreciate it. Great to hear you also have the 40D. It is 42 degrees today so I would take the cooler weather, maybe not the rain and wind though ;-) Cheers, Duade
Thanks! It’s what like you are saying, “It’s not about the photos but the experience or to put it another way, the thrill of the hunt.”
Duade, this video was fantastic! I've owned almost every Canon APS-C DSLR since and including the D30 (no, not the 30D...there really was a D30 (3MP IIRC) followed by the D60, which was then followed by the 10D and up). My wife now has my old 40D, but it was one of my favorite bodies. This video not only proved that a skilled, educated photographer can make great images with almost any camera and does not need the latest, greatest, most expensive toy out there. It was also inspirational in giving us the KITA to just get out there and have fun. The smile on your face and the excited tone of your voice say it all! Keep 'em coming!