Hello from Glasgow, I have a bag full of Canon gear that I used to use all the time, but one day I was diagnosed with blood cancer which changed everything. Long story short, I now have one camera with one lens for the rare good days and a very compact pocket camera for all other times, without it I would rarely ever get to use a camera.
Thank you for your comment! It seems you'll soon have a new book on your shelf. :) Congratulations! Please contact me via my website, and I'll send you the "Frames of Andalucia" book.
Hello. I’m a professional photographer since 2004 and I haven’t been taking street photos for years. After I discovered your channel I started to do that again. Thank you so much. I’ve found myself again.
Gear absolutely does matter. Two years ago I was working 80 to 100 hours a week as a nurse when I suddenly started having health problems at the relatively young age of 45. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and put on disability. Photography had been my passion for 30 years and I had just bought a nice Nikon kit. However, due to my illness I was unable to use it. After a hospitalization in April I was also told that I needed to be tested for multiple sclerosis immediately. Then in May I was told it was very likely that I have Lupus as well. Inspired by you I bought a Q3 that I can actually hold to use and it brought back the joy of photography for me. I do have to say Malaga is a great area. I spent a summer there when I was 20 and have never felt more at home.
For me gear matters. You have to enjoy the feeling of the camera and be inspired in order to make good images. Having never been to Malaga these videos opened my eyes to a possible new destination for my travel bucket list. Great work guys.
Yes, gear matters…it is hard to photograph without gear. I shoot digital and film including 35mm, 120 and 4x5. I select the gear depending upon the results that I want, or sometimes I just feel like using a particular camera. I live in northern Spain and have been to Málaga and would like to see it again someday.
The Gear not just matter, it’s essential. The right tool for the job is making the master. To know what tool you need is job of the master. I just come back from Malaga, and unfortunately from this video I’ve learn about the Joel exhibition and your event. I had great time with my Leica Q2 there and only now I’ve learn that you and mike were there. I will definitely go back to Malaga. Great place, climate, food, people and place to live.
Thank you for sharing, I was following this project since the beginning and also with several other participating photographers. And that was exciting story overall. I tend to the opinion that experiencing the gear and ability to motivate you for picture talking is major factor why the gear matters. And yes Malaga and Spain in general is small Mexico waiting for me to explore.
I believe that equipment matters, and a lot. Before I delved into photography, I was much more focused on the piano and musical composition. I created different works on different instruments, and each one led me to a certain kind of music. Some pianos, with a drier, more metallic sound, guided me toward jazz sounds, while other pianos with a sweeter sound inspired me to create ambient music. I believe the same thing happens with photography. The camera, the lens, the digital or analog medium, etc. Each different piece of equipment leads you to different results, inspires a certain kind of photography, and will profoundly influence your work. It's not a matter of the quality of the equipment, but its nature, its characteristics, its soul.
Very well said, great comment, I shoot film and I try and match film and camera/lens characteristics to each project for a personal take that hopefully helps to define the outcome.
I am beginning to see that gear doesn't matter because I miss the gear and times I had in my youth learning photography. I would trade all the gear in the world to go back to that point and just have my first film camera and that sense of wonder.
Gear matters because it's important to enjoy what you're using, enjoy the process and want to take your kit out an capture moments but also have what you need to be able to capture what you need to. Malaga has been on my list forever but due to circumstances I've never been able to go but one day if I get the chance, I definitely will.
Initially I was going to say no, gear doesn’t matter… unless you’re on a specific Photography assignment and the brief called for a particular look I suppose.. Though watching this amazing video entirely through, I changed my mind and I’m going to say yes gear does matter, without it we wouldn’t be capturing any pictures at all! Awesome Video, very entertaining! Congratulations Robin and all the Photographers and people involved with it Definitely looked liked a whole a lot of fun being part of that amazing Spanish, Andalusian project (well deserved) also congrats on getting your new Panasonic, S5II camera! I’d definitely love to visit Malaga someday, for sure!😎✌️
Gear matters for me like you said - because of the experience and the desire to go out and shoot. For me unfortunately the Sony cameras didn't provide me that. When I moved to Fujifilm and then to Leica - that's when I wanted to go out and shoot, because of the gear feeling in my hands using it and also got inspired to grow my own small YT channel (and not because of any spec sheets or image quality) Great work and amazing project - would love to see that docu and of course also be proud to own one of these books :) Greeting from your homeland 'Schland 😁
I believe that if gear is considered an art form through craftsmanship, ie lenses or camera. Then it can be the root of inspiration to create art every time you take it out the house.
Absolutely gear matters, my experience has been that the simpler the setup, the more engaged the photographer is with the creative process, and the more satisfying the photography experience is. Thank you for all your content and congrats!
My take on "Does gear matter?": I pretty much agree with you guys. If one camera gets you excited about creating and/or photographing the world and another camera does not imbue the same excitement then there really is no question whether gear matters....of course it does in that case! Ever since I managed to get my first used Leica M back in 2019 I've had a desire to take it with me wherever I go. No other camera made me feel that way and I've been shooting since 2005. Have I been to Malaga? No. Would I consider traveling to Malaga? Absolutely! I have been to Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Hungary, France, Italy, Serbia, and would love to add Spain to the list (Gemany as well ;) ) In the meantime, I'd love to visit Spain by turning the pages of that book! Thank you, Robin!
Here are a few points why I think gear matters. 1. Quality and Opportunities: Gear absolutely matters. While modern cameras offer similar image quality, investing in a specific brand can indeed open up unique opportunities. Different systems have their strengths, whether it’s low-light performance, dynamic range, or specialized lenses. Consider your shooting style and preferences when choosing gear. 2. Inspiration and Comfort: The tactile experience matters too. A camera that feels comfortable and inspires you to shoot is crucial. If it motivates you even on days when creativity feels elusive, that’s a win. Whether you’re exploring alone or with others, the gear becomes an extension of your vision. 3. Budget and Priorities: Gear doesn’t have to break the bank. Entry-level DSLRs or mirrorless cameras can produce fantastic results. Ultimately, prioritize the gear that aligns with your creative goals. 4. Malaysia Through My Lens: Now that I’ve recently moved to Malaysia, I’m captivated by the vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and diverse people. I aim to capture the colors of bustling markets, the serenity of rainforests, and the warmth of local interactions. Letting my gear be a conduit for these experiences enriches my photography. 5. Skill, Vision, and Gear: As I explore Malaysia, my eye for composition and storytelling is shaped by the vibrant culture and landscapes. While skill and vision are essential, the right gear enhances my ability to translate those moments into remarkable images. As for visiting Spain, it's actually on the shortlist of countries I'm considering relocating to after Malaysia. And nice work on this video. Very cool adventure!
Hello from Sweden! First of all yes gear matters. I started out with a Canon 500d about 13 years ago. Fast forward I now use Fuji GFX for the most of the time and im now thinking of adding a Leica to my collection. Mainly why gear matters are color for me. The GFX have 16bit and that makes a whole lot of difference. I get very inspired of your videos because you are telling about photo in a way so everybody can understand. Why im going for a Leica is to slow down my photography. To not just shot from the hip and get lucky. BTW never been in Malaga. Thank you for sharing your thought and knowledge on RUclips :)
Never being in Malaga, hopefully in the future. The book looks amazing!. Gear matters? YES! Once I got my Q I completely forgot about the x100, the only thing I miss from thw x100 is the smaller form factor.
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The gear matter to me and I bought Leica Q, Leica Q2 and Leica M11 because of you. When I first watched your videos from Seoul I was 100% sure I will buy Leica. Now I am Leica user more then 7 years. Thank you for doing this videos. Im also supporter as I have all your books and presets 😂
Been following you for a while since BKK ... I was using the X100V but took the plunge to Q2mono seeing how much u loved monochrome at the time ... I used to do do a lot of film photography and black and white was my thing ... from processing to printing... had tons of mice camera gear and they all had a different look to them ... recently I'm in a Q2M phase ... I was gonna get the Q3 but probably skip it and save up for the Hasselblad X2D ... love the Hassey look ..
Hi Robin, yes I do think gear matters. Ihave had serious G.A.S. for a long time and have had numerous cameras , from 4x5 + 8x10 film, medium format both film and digital , full frame + apsc Sonys, Lumix G9 , several Olympus cameras and several pinholes cameras, Holgas, etc. up until a year ago I would have said gear does not matter as I had searched hi and lo to find “the camera” for me, and had no luck. Then I purchased a what I thought of as a nothing camera, a Ricoh GR3X, and I found my camera, finally. The use of the Ricoh, very small, no viewfinder, allowing 1 handed use, a set frame of 40mm, ibis ,excellent quality has set me free somehow, I approach photography in a different manner somehow and I see differently, sounds flaky but it’s true. So yes I love this little quirky camera and the opening of a door in my photography world. I’d love to see it run in a place as beautiful as Malaga, but travel is not in the cards for me so I can watch the videos, hopefully win this draw and have the book😀Thanks Robin for the work you put into your videos to bring the exotic places of the world to those of us who are unable to see it personally, it means a lot to us.👍
Great video as always. Yes for me gear matters, as a pro photographer for the last 40 years, I have not always shot with the cameras I would of preferred but now that I’m Retiered, I can shoot with a Leica which I’ve always dreamed of. I have visited Malaga, briefly during a vacation in 2008 and would certainly go back. I have recently returned from a Portugal tour. The book look amazing and it would be a great addition to my photo book collection. Cheers from Canada!
Yes and no for me. When I was a teen, my parents wouldn’t buy me a camera for an overseas trip but dad borrowed his brother who lent me his worst one with masking tapes all over it to hold it together. It did no effect to the resulting images but I saw other kids’ smirks and whispers. It was embarrassing. Later when using Canon DSLR, that was when opportunities started coming as at that time, DSLRs weren’t super common yet and it symbolised seriousness. But it wasn’t until a Leica M, I was IN LOVE even more. So in this way, yes, gear matters. But I also use my phone for some competition winners. So in this case, it doesn’t matter. Never been to Malaga or Spain yet. Hopefully one day with my family.
Does gear matter? Absolutely...I was, and still am, into Fuji X cameras and some years ago was chosen, together with 100 other photographers, to participate in a worldwide exhibition organised by Fujifilm to celebrate 5 years of the X series cameras. I had never entered a photography competition in all my life and only did it because I was really into Fuji at the time then couldn't believe when the chose my photo. I love travelling and Andalucia is definitely on my list, it looks amazing...
I think gear matters. I recently sold all of my Sony gear and went to Fuji. The Sony felt soulless and uninspiring. The Fuji is just fun, and as far as image quality I’d say it’s 96% of what my Sony A7r IV was. And, yes I want to go to Spain.
It’s nice to see the results of the documentary and the book finally. Gear is something that you want to get out of your way for the task at hand. Yesterday I took a Voigtländer Bessa II out on the street during a festival, and it is about the least appropriate camera for street or quick snapshots possible. So yes, the gear matters once you’ve got your basic needs met. But also I have been reviewing over fifteen years of digital photography in Lightroom and the results teach me that you don’t look at the photo and remember the camera very often. Looking at the metadata, I’ve often guessed wrong. I’ve owned Canons, Nikons, Fujis, a Leica M9 and the photos look way more similar than they have meaningful differences. In that sense, gear doesn’t at all matter. I’d love to see Malaga, or anywhere in Spain (with a camera and an empty stomach, especially). Nice job, I’m going to go watch that documentary now!
Nice video and update on you robin, and congratulations to your project, awesome photo book you and other members of that project. I followed you from the time your start shooting with leica m6 and other film cameras you used and bought along your journey, I inspired how you shoot with films, also leica m6, and later you do leica Q, Q2 monochrome ( by the you sold it?), and now leica Q3 nice improvement from previous model. Gear matters, because it is your own personal choice of tool or tools to get or take photos, or encourage you to take outside, sometimes it's also experiencing new things in photography, new lens, new filters, etc. It's not the brand, it's more of the wants and needs and what makes you feel happy, enjoying using on daily basis or hobby. I wanted to visit the place you go, but right now Japanese yen is not good, but I'm happy to see you, with the new update videos and what you doing. Thank you Robin God bless 🙏👍📸
Congratulations! Strangely, I was already planning to go back to Málaga to see the Meyerowitz exhibition. We have family nearby. Gear matters in the sense that each choice opens certain possibilities and closes others. Like you, I love the Leica Q (2 monochrom). But if I ever find it getting in the way of the images I want to make, I won't hesitate to change.
A year ago I bought the Ricoh GRIIIx after a ton of mirrorless cameras. This camera changed completely my perspective. Last December I bought my dream camera, the Leica Q3. After 6 months I sold it because of the focal lenght: it's too wide to me. In the meantime I started to use the flash and also this changed my perspective. Therefore, gear, as well as the study and exercise, matters
Thank You for the awesome video. Gear does have a massive impact on me. I only found out about the great community and unbelievable hobby film photography is, because I searched for cheap old lenses for my digital camera. Now I have gear acquisition syndrome and only shoot film. Why? because of the gear, the haptic nice sensation and the dedication one needs. To slow down, measure, focus manually etc. Most of my friends now want to borrow my cameras to try themselves after not only noticing the cool look of my gear but after the first touch and picture they took. I dont think gear makes you a better photographer but I do think it makes for a pleasant experience. This leads to better mood -> less stress -> more focus -> more creativity -> better pictures. Have a nice one and thank You 🤝
If you love your gear and enjoy using it then there is more chance you will practise your craft and grow your creativity. Who knows where that will then take you and your photographic endeavours? We just need to be weary of overly focusing on gear - at the expense of getting out and being creative. I really enjoyed watching the various RUclips videos posted by the participants in the Andalucia project - seeing the different styles and approaches. I’m looking forward to spending some time in Andalucia next year myself.
Gear matters, without gear you couldn’t photograph. Once you have gear (or anything that takes photographs), what matters is the photographer. I was twice and now I’m eager to come back for Joel’s Exhibition.
For me there is one particular aspect why gear indeed matters: When I began with photography as a teenager there where cameras I could only dream of since I couldn't afford buying them at all. Nonetheless at this this age I developed a lifelong love for photography (also with the modest equipment that matched my tight budget). Nowadays I all the more enjoy buying my dream cameras of those long-gone times (e.g. a Nikon F2 and analog rangefinders) and insofar gear for me is also one reason I like coming back to film (in addidition to my digital cameras) so much.
Gear matters for me , i used the fuji XT-4 and later the XT-5 and shoot monochrom with it untill i saved enough money i bought myself a Leica M11 Monochrom > this changed everything related to quality of the photos .
Hello Robin, thank you very much for your videos, I love to watch them. Gear matters to inspire. I started my photography journey with a film photography, I had a DSL and I did not feel myself comfortable to take it with me every day and shoot street photography + I hated the colors and the look of my photographs, yes I wasn't even close to be okayish photographer. I found your and many other film photographer videos on youtube and got inspired to try. I bought my first film camera and tactile feeling of the buttons and dials + results on a beautiful portra inspired me to start my photography journey. Now I'm okay to shoot film and digital, I can set up in manual mode any camera, I have several film cameras that I choose to shoot depending on my feelings, a weather outside, a film I plan to shoot and I have several digital cameras that I choose to use same way. So a gear matters for me for sure. I would like to tell that if tomorrow I would have only one camera with me - I would be happy to shoot it no matter what - just to get the results that I want. By the way - I love to shoot Sony A7 camera series, I don't think that I definately need Leica just to photograph.
No, I haven’t been to Malaga, but would sure like to visit. I think gear does matter, even if in a different way than when most people think when justifying a purchase. Got to agree with Mike: it changes the experience of shooting. You said it well in the video, most modern cameras are capable of producing quality images. But the shooting experiences are as different as there are photographers, so the ideal gear for me, might not be for you or someone else.
Hello from California, yes, I think that gear matters. It’s like you said, it is how you feel when you use the camera. I love using my Leica Q3 or other Leica because it feels good in your hands and to me I’m making art. I think Spain is lovely and I hope to travel there again someday to take some photos. I lived there for a few years in the mid-70’s, but did not have a camera to capture the many beautiful places I traveled to. Thanks for a nice video .
Gear matters to me in the sense that the experience of shooting is different when I use my M6 or my A7IV. It’s not the results, it’s the joy of using the camera. After watching the vlogs from most of the photographers involved in this project I’ve been considering doing a road trip through Andalusia.
I’m clearing space for a forthcoming Q. What I’m looking for in a camera now is a soulmate that won’t hold me back. Just a simple travel companion with exquisite taste who won’t ask too much of me. A quiet friend who’s a joy to be with.
Gear matters….well yes and no! As the years progress I value simplicity (prime lenses are so much more rewarding), but shooting analogue on 40 year old kit again as well as newish digital makes me smile! I will try and get to Malaga for the exhibition if I can.
For me, gear matters in the sense of if it inspires me to use it or not. Gear also matters depending on the type of photo assignment you will be doing.
Gear is all subjective. If gear is important to you then it absolutely matters. If the image is the most important thing to you and there are plenty of gear options for cheap that will do just fine compared to more expensive options. Specifically with film cameras. All they are is a light sealed box. The film stock and the glass are the most important. Also great work, congrats on the doc and the book! Hoping to get out to Spain in the near future!
Gear CAN matter. Sometimes experiencing the limitation of a piece of gear can heighten the creative mindset. OR a new piece of gear can make the mind feel refreshed and can influence creativity in a new way. The eye and the skills still lay inside the operator however. If you don’t enjoy the gear, or if it doesn’t “click” with you, it can also put a damper on that creativity.
I just visited Andalucia a few months after your trip. I saw almost all the places that you guys had covered. Took some pictures too but I'd be very much interested in seeing such a beautiful corner of the world through your eyes too. Gear? It does matter. When it's a hobby then the gear should motivate you picking it up in a first place. When it's a profession, the gear the one that helps you putting food on the table.
Thanks for the great video 👍🏻 Please keep it up. I'm part of Team Gear matters. A camera is not just a tool for taking photos/videos. It can also be a motivation to go out and take photos and a fashion accessory. I haven't been to Malaga yet, but the video is a good advertisement for this beautiful city.
Gear does matter more for one than the others. Anyway, if you can afford it and you like it just go for it. I really enjoy your Channel. and the project in Malaga was great. I'm sure you're really enjoy it. Congratulations. I have been in Malaga last year for work, and I absolutely looking forward to go there again.
I think for some genres gear doesn't matter but once you head into certain niches (wildlife, macro,sports) gear does start to matter.... Meanwhile Málaga is somewhere I'd like to visit
Gear matters. Even if it is just a tool, it still matters in any profession. Like right boots matter for a hike or umbrella in a rainy day, same applies to photography gear. It is just the experience and preference that changes for a photographer. When it's dark, some will get faster lens, but some will use flash, and in the end result will be same, but different.
Gear matters if it motivates going out and taking pictures. What gear it is at the end does not matter, it is just all about photography. Malaga and Costa Del Sol is one of the most beautiful places with great people and awesome food. Thanks Robin for the video, it makes wanna go to Malaga and of course taking some pictures ;)
Great video! Cool to see you and Mike together. I love cameras and lenses as much as I love taking pictures, so gear definitely matters to me. I don’t get why some photographers hate talking about gear, for me it’s all part of the same thing. Whatever inspires you to go and explore with a camera. Malaga looks interesting, hope to visit one day!
Robin, thanks for sharing your journey with us! I hope I can view the documentary as well. As for gear, yes I basically agree with you and Mike. There are technical aspects of making a photo that you need to have the right gear to create. This is how it matters in the basic sense. The other aspect is your style of shooting and personal preferences. For me, I like simplicity and a minimalist approach. The less settings to fiddle with on my camera means more time thinking about creating something. I also think that the right gear for someone is stuff that makes them comfortable and augments their capabilities as an artist, rather than getting in the way.
Gear matters to me because as well as enjoying photography I collect cameras and gear. I like trying out new to me cameras, learning to use them and even repairing them. I like experimenting with different gear, to me its part of the fun of photography. I have not been to Malaga yet but would love to go one day.
Gear does matter, I have added a pancake lens to my Fuji X-T4 and I am taking it everywhere with me, taking more street pics. I would love to go to Malaga, I have heard wonderful things about the city. I can't wait to get my first leica soon, your videos have inspired me to do so. Keep up with the great work
To me gear matters! Ima camera chick inspires me to go out and shoot matters! My Q3 and M11 are going with me to Europe this summer for that exact reason. Image quality now isn’t the issue - all modern cameras can turn out a great photo. Btw - am going to try out the sling bag idea for my trip.
Hi Robin, Thanks for the video. Your question prompts us to consider whether the tools are important to the experience and process rather than just the expression itself. I believe gear does matter. If we consider photographers as artists, then cameras are essentially the tools of their trade. These tools impact the workflow, the creative process, and the artist's approach to their work. For photographers, the choice of camera can influence how they perceive and capture the world.
Hi Robin :) Old time follower from Sweden. Nice video frist of all, was nice watching you go through that amazing experience and be a fly on the wall. Seeing your reaction to that beautiful project and film being on the big screen. Very cool :) So if gear matters? Yes i really think it does, but not in the perspective of quality or technical specs etc. Or at least it does not for me, i like you also shoot film and for me the feel and handling of the camera and character of the lens is what matters the most to me. And most of my gear choices are affected by those qualities more than anything else. As i once said on this channel several years ago before getting my first Q, your videos inspired me somewhat do get one to begin with. And it was my beginning into Leica and up until now that has continued to be cameras and lenses that inspires me a lot still. So yes, in that regard it really matters a lot! Never been to Malaga actually, and never really had any real incentive to go. But it looks nice and after seeing this you at least opened my eyes to te possibility, looks awesome :) Cheers! Regards Martin.
I've never been to Malaga but it looks like a nice place to shoot. Gear certainly matters. Beyond the performance aspects of being able to reliably capture what you experience, the gear selected can have a role in determining how your vision is artistically portrayed by varying lenses to achieve a specific field of view or depth of field, as well as how the lens renders colours, bokeh, contrast etc. Gear that is a joy to use, and keeps up with your expectations or not can determine your enjoyment of the shoot and either motivate you to shoot more or be a nuisance and discourage you if it doesn't do what you need it to.
Gear matters? Not really, today most cameras can create a pretty good result. It’s more a question about the creativiy of the person behind the VF. Guys like you who knows how to catch the moment.
Yes, gear matters. As you said rightly, today's cameras can produce exceptionel results, but the feel of the camera matters very much! Congrats on the Spanish project!
For me gear does matter. I can connect with Mike’s take, the experience with your gear has to emotionally connect and if it does it can inspire one to use it more often. And as most know, the key to good photography is to take a lot of images and stay current with your photography. I have been to Spain in the summer, down in Rota. Next time I’ll go in the off season when it’s not as hot 😅
Totally agree, while of course your own abilities are part of the equation, gear does matter in the technical aspect as well to a certain degree. But also, how you connect with the camera and other tools is also important. If it feels good to use, then it inspires you to go out and use them. Heck, had I not made the silly decision to get an M240 last year, I wouldn't have gotten back into photography at all. As for Malaga, I'm not sure if I would go there as I'm not so familiar with the place (I wouldn't say no if someone flew me there, of course) but I really want to go out and travel to actually put all this accumulated gear to use.
Yes & No. No because a photographer can pick up any camera and able to use it and capture pictures. Yes depending on the style of photography you enjoy photographing. Like some camera are better suited and your style. I think it’s the focal length that matters more than the camera. It’s all up to the individual what choice that will suit them.
I think gear matters to a point, in a similar way that Mike mentioned, certain lenses (or focal lengths) definitely can impact our photography. I’ve been to Malaga once, last year and it was incredible (but very hot since it was July 🥵) I would love to visit again in a different season.
Gear matters, but it's about picking the right gear for the job. I also think that too many new photographers get the wrong idea about the gear that they need, and sadly it's a lot of the RUclips content that fuels the GAS.
Gear does matter.....ish! It matters technically to the pint it allows you to create the images you want or need to, but after that point of entry its no longer an issue. The other way it might matter is what it enables you to do and how it makes you feel when you use it. That definitely matters when it comes to art. Only briefly been to Malaga ince for a work trip and would love to go back to see and photograph it in detail. Looks a lovely place.
When audience see your imagens, they don't care which gear or setting or any technical aspect was used to get the imagen, they only care is about the results, the final imagen. For me is more important to have a purpose, an objective, a project to work on it, and based on this select the best tool (gear) that help me to accomplish it. Gear should never be the center of your work, because once the love is gone you will in need to find a new gear (new love) that inspire you to go out to shoot more.
Not so much for general pictures, I took great pics with phone as well, however, the feelings of the subject are definitely different with a camera and you feel it especially with kids and their attention.
I have not been to Malaga but would love to one day! I think gear absolutely matters. I just bought a Leica myself and it makes me want to take photos everyday! It may just be the honeymoon phase but this time it feels different.
Wonderful video! Yes I think gear matters. If you got the right gear, it forces You to go out really wanting to create as good as possible and you also inspire you even more to do it better next time you're out there or try out an other way....Keep on the good work, you really inspire us to go out there and shot some photos!
I agree with Mike that gear matters in the sense that it has to fit with your work flow and it has to help inspire you to want to go out there and make work. I have never been to Malaga or anywhere in Spain. The country looks beautiful!
it matters, exactly how the two of you said. i am bringing my leica everywhere because i simply love how it feels and shoots. my old 5d was nice but too big and ugly 😅
the gear for me it is important, the feeling with it improve the confidence when you are in the streets I went ti Malage some days during a road trip done in 2010, it is amazing during the fiesta
I agree with you on gear. It only matters in whether or not you like using it. And ive been to galicia but no other part of spain . Hopefully will see the rest soon . Now please pick me to get that book 😊
Gear matters a lot to me. I'm totally a gear head first and photographer second. And as far as visiting Malaga of course it would a an awesome place to see.
This is a great, fresh take on this topic and I agree - gear does matter - but it matters for reasons inherent to the owner. It’s subjective, not objective.
It matters that the gear that you use fades away and allows you to take images as a flow of thought. It does not matter how new, shiny or state of the art it is.
Io a Malaga non ci sono mai stato ma tu in Italia quando ci vieni? Allora ascolta, quando deciderai di venire in Italia porterai anche il libro... se la macchina fotografica è importante? Te lo dico quando verrai in Italia. Un caro saluto.
Ich glaube das Kameraequipment auf jeden Fall eine wichtige Rolle spielt, auch wenn manchmal nur aus haptischen Gründen oder anderer Bedienung. Und einige Fotos kannst du auch einfach schwer mit einem 200mm Objektiv oder so machen ;) Malaga finde ich tatsächlich schon länger interessant, habe mich aber bei meinem letzten Foto-Trip für Istanbul entschieden...
Gear matters. Es ist grundsätzlich schön sich mit der Technik zu befassen, aber es darf sich nicht darauf beschränken. Schliesslich zählt ja ein gutes Foto am Schluss! Danke für deine tollen Videos! LG aus Österreich
Deine Videos sind klasse. Nach Malaga werden wir auch noch reisen hoffentlich schon mit einer gebrauchten Leica Q2 im Gepäck. Es ist ein langer Traum von mir diese Kamera zu besitzen.
A camera matters only so far as you can't take a picture without one. Not sure why you didn't edit out the part about the photo exhibit. Just because you were disappointed doesn't mean I needed to be too. I gave up on the video after that.
Hi Robin, great video with Mike, another favourite of mine. The video filmed in Malaga was additional fun, because we've been there last year and stayed at the exact hotel where you filmed the pool video at the beginning. Weired. We'll be back in Malaga in October and I'm very much looking forward to that! Gear matters, I'm with Mike here. Photography is the combination of tech and creativity. It's important how the tech feels to be creative. Of course I'd love to win the book 😂
Hi Robin - I found your story very interesting of how buying a Q in 2015 impacted your journey as a photographer. As both you and Mike shared there are many high quality cameras available, but once you find one that is most suitable for the type of photography you do, I believe plays a huge role in contributing to the creative process. I also was introduced to Leica by buying a Q. The first time I shot with it, I became hooked. The camera felt comfortable in my hands, I really liked the minimalist layout of the camera and menu and I was blown away by the image quality that the lens produced. I’ve heard people say that a camera is nothing more than a tool, which I suppose is true, but some bring us more joy when using them and in turn fuels our creativity. On another note, Southern Spain seems to be a very cool part of Europe. Thanks for the video.
Hello from Glasgow, I have a bag full of Canon gear that I used to use all the time, but one day I was diagnosed with blood cancer which changed everything. Long story short, I now have one camera with one lens for the rare good days and a very compact pocket camera for all other times, without it I would rarely ever get to use a camera.
Thank you for your comment! It seems you'll soon have a new book on your shelf. :) Congratulations! Please contact me via my website, and I'll send you the "Frames of Andalucia" book.
Hello. I’m a professional photographer since 2004 and I haven’t been taking street photos for years. After I discovered your channel I started to do that again. Thank you so much. I’ve found myself again.
Gear absolutely does matter. Two years ago I was working 80 to 100 hours a week as a nurse when I suddenly started having health problems at the relatively young age of 45. I was diagnosed with Crohn’s disease and put on disability. Photography had been my passion for 30 years and I had just bought a nice Nikon kit. However, due to my illness I was unable to use it. After a hospitalization in April I was also told that I needed to be tested for multiple sclerosis immediately. Then in May I was told it was very likely that I have Lupus as well. Inspired by you I bought a Q3 that I can actually hold to use and it brought back the joy of photography for me. I do have to say Malaga is a great area. I spent a summer there when I was 20 and have never felt more at home.
For me gear matters. You have to enjoy the feeling of the camera and be inspired in order to make good images. Having never been to Malaga these videos opened my eyes to a possible new destination for my travel bucket list. Great work guys.
Yes, gear matters…it is hard to photograph without gear. I shoot digital and film including 35mm, 120 and 4x5. I select the gear depending upon the results that I want, or sometimes I just feel like using a particular camera. I live in northern Spain and have been to Málaga and would like to see it again someday.
Love this Robin. In the sense that gear puts a smile on my face and inspires me to get out a take photos, then I agree with your thoughts.
The Gear not just matter, it’s essential. The right tool for the job is making the master. To know what tool you need is job of the master.
I just come back from Malaga, and unfortunately from this video I’ve learn about the Joel exhibition and your event. I had great time with my Leica Q2 there and only now I’ve learn that you and mike were there. I will definitely go back to Malaga. Great place, climate, food, people and place to live.
Thank you for sharing, I was following this project since the beginning and also with several other participating photographers. And that was exciting story overall. I tend to the opinion that experiencing the gear and ability to motivate you for picture talking is major factor why the gear matters. And yes Malaga and Spain in general is small Mexico waiting for me to explore.
I believe that equipment matters, and a lot. Before I delved into photography, I was much more focused on the piano and musical composition. I created different works on different instruments, and each one led me to a certain kind of music. Some pianos, with a drier, more metallic sound, guided me toward jazz sounds, while other pianos with a sweeter sound inspired me to create ambient music. I believe the same thing happens with photography. The camera, the lens, the digital or analog medium, etc. Each different piece of equipment leads you to different results, inspires a certain kind of photography, and will profoundly influence your work. It's not a matter of the quality of the equipment, but its nature, its characteristics, its soul.
Very well said, great comment, I shoot film and I try and match film and camera/lens characteristics to each project for a personal take that hopefully helps to define the outcome.
I am beginning to see that gear doesn't matter because I miss the gear and times I had in my youth learning photography. I would trade all the gear in the world to go back to that point and just have my first film camera and that sense of wonder.
Gear matters because it's important to enjoy what you're using, enjoy the process and want to take your kit out an capture moments but also have what you need to be able to capture what you need to. Malaga has been on my list forever but due to circumstances I've never been able to go but one day if I get the chance, I definitely will.
Initially I was going to say no, gear doesn’t matter… unless you’re on a specific Photography assignment and the brief called for a particular look I suppose..
Though watching this amazing video entirely through, I changed my mind and I’m going to say yes gear does matter, without it we wouldn’t be capturing any pictures at all!
Awesome Video, very entertaining! Congratulations Robin and all the Photographers and people involved with it Definitely looked liked a whole a lot of fun being part of that amazing Spanish, Andalusian project (well deserved) also congrats on getting your new Panasonic, S5II camera! I’d definitely love to visit Malaga someday, for sure!😎✌️
Gear matters for me like you said - because of the experience and the desire to go out and shoot. For me unfortunately the Sony cameras didn't provide me that. When I moved to Fujifilm and then to Leica - that's when I wanted to go out and shoot, because of the gear feeling in my hands using it and also got inspired to grow my own small YT channel (and not because of any spec sheets or image quality)
Great work and amazing project - would love to see that docu and of course also be proud to own one of these books :)
Greeting from your homeland 'Schland 😁
I believe that if gear is considered an art form through craftsmanship, ie lenses or camera. Then it can be the root of inspiration to create art every time you take it out the house.
Gear doesn't matter. I just happen to own 20+ various cameras by accident...
Do they all work? My problem with collecting is that I have this disappointment quite regularly!
@@grahamrichards8531 last time I checked they did.
Absolutely gear matters, my experience has been that the simpler the setup, the more engaged the photographer is with the creative process, and the more satisfying the photography experience is. Thank you for all your content and congrats!
My take on "Does gear matter?": I pretty much agree with you guys. If one camera gets you excited about creating and/or photographing the world and another camera does not imbue the same excitement then there really is no question whether gear matters....of course it does in that case! Ever since I managed to get my first used Leica M back in 2019 I've had a desire to take it with me wherever I go. No other camera made me feel that way and I've been shooting since 2005. Have I been to Malaga? No. Would I consider traveling to Malaga? Absolutely! I have been to Austria, Czech Republic, Switzerland, Hungary, France, Italy, Serbia, and would love to add Spain to the list (Gemany as well ;) ) In the meantime, I'd love to visit Spain by turning the pages of that book! Thank you, Robin!
Here are a few points why I think gear matters.
1. Quality and Opportunities: Gear absolutely matters. While modern cameras offer similar image quality, investing in a specific brand can indeed open up unique opportunities. Different systems have their strengths, whether it’s low-light performance, dynamic range, or specialized lenses. Consider your shooting style and preferences when choosing gear.
2. Inspiration and Comfort: The tactile experience matters too. A camera that feels comfortable and inspires you to shoot is crucial. If it motivates you even on days when creativity feels elusive, that’s a win. Whether you’re exploring alone or with others, the gear becomes an extension of your vision.
3. Budget and Priorities: Gear doesn’t have to break the bank. Entry-level DSLRs or mirrorless cameras can produce fantastic results. Ultimately, prioritize the gear that aligns with your creative goals.
4. Malaysia Through My Lens: Now that I’ve recently moved to Malaysia, I’m captivated by the vibrant culture, lush landscapes, and diverse people. I aim to capture the colors of bustling markets, the serenity of rainforests, and the warmth of local interactions. Letting my gear be a conduit for these experiences enriches my photography.
5. Skill, Vision, and Gear: As I explore Malaysia, my eye for composition and storytelling is shaped by the vibrant culture and landscapes. While skill and vision are essential, the right gear enhances my ability to translate those moments into remarkable images.
As for visiting Spain, it's actually on the shortlist of countries I'm considering relocating to after Malaysia.
And nice work on this video. Very cool adventure!
Hello from Sweden! First of all yes gear matters. I started out with a Canon 500d about 13 years ago. Fast forward I now use Fuji GFX for the most of the time and im now thinking of adding a Leica to my collection. Mainly why gear matters are color for me. The GFX have 16bit and that makes a whole lot of difference. I get very inspired of your videos because you are telling about photo in a way so everybody can understand. Why im going for a Leica is to slow down my photography. To not just shot from the hip and get lucky. BTW never been in Malaga. Thank you for sharing your thought and knowledge on RUclips :)
Never being in Malaga, hopefully in the future. The book looks amazing!.
Gear matters? YES! Once I got my Q I completely forgot about the x100, the only thing I miss from thw x100 is the smaller form factor.
The gear matter to me and I bought Leica Q, Leica Q2 and Leica M11 because of you. When I first watched your videos from Seoul I was 100% sure I will buy Leica. Now I am Leica user more then 7 years. Thank you for doing this videos. Im also supporter as I have all your books and presets 😂
Been following you for a while since BKK ... I was using the X100V but took the plunge to Q2mono seeing how much u loved monochrome at the time ... I used to do do a lot of film photography and black and white was my thing ... from processing to printing... had tons of mice camera gear and they all had a different look to them ... recently I'm in a Q2M phase ... I was gonna get the Q3 but probably skip it and save up for the Hasselblad X2D ... love the Hassey look ..
Hi Robin, yes I do think gear matters. Ihave had serious G.A.S. for a long time and have had numerous cameras , from 4x5 + 8x10 film, medium format both film and digital , full frame + apsc Sonys, Lumix G9 , several Olympus cameras and several pinholes cameras, Holgas, etc. up until a year ago I would have said gear does not matter as I had searched hi and lo to find “the camera” for me, and had no luck. Then I purchased a what I thought of as a nothing camera, a Ricoh GR3X, and I found my camera, finally. The use of the Ricoh, very small, no viewfinder, allowing 1 handed use, a set frame of 40mm, ibis ,excellent quality has set me free somehow, I approach photography in a different manner somehow and I see differently, sounds flaky but it’s true. So yes I love this little quirky camera and the opening of a door in my photography world. I’d love to see it run in a place as beautiful as Malaga, but travel is not in the cards for me so I can watch the videos, hopefully win this draw and have the book😀Thanks Robin for the work you put into your videos to bring the exotic places of the world to those of us who are unable to see it personally, it means a lot to us.👍
Gear is a necessity, you need what you need for the kind of art that you did...and also is awesome =)
Great video as always. Yes for me gear matters, as a pro photographer for the last 40 years, I have not always shot with the cameras I would of preferred but now that I’m Retiered, I can shoot with a Leica which I’ve always dreamed of. I have visited Malaga, briefly during a vacation in 2008 and would certainly go back. I have recently returned from a Portugal tour. The book look amazing and it would be a great addition to my photo book collection. Cheers from Canada!
Yes and no for me. When I was a teen, my parents wouldn’t buy me a camera for an overseas trip but dad borrowed his brother who lent me his worst one with masking tapes all over it to hold it together. It did no effect to the resulting images but I saw other kids’ smirks and whispers. It was embarrassing. Later when using Canon DSLR, that was when opportunities started coming as at that time, DSLRs weren’t super common yet and it symbolised seriousness. But it wasn’t until a Leica M, I was IN LOVE even more. So in this way, yes, gear matters. But I also use my phone for some competition winners. So in this case, it doesn’t matter.
Never been to Malaga or Spain yet. Hopefully one day with my family.
Does gear matter? Absolutely...I was, and still am, into Fuji X cameras and some years ago was chosen, together with 100 other photographers, to participate in a worldwide exhibition organised by Fujifilm to celebrate 5 years of the X series cameras. I had never entered a photography competition in all my life and only did it because I was really into Fuji at the time then couldn't believe when the chose my photo.
I love travelling and Andalucia is definitely on my list, it looks amazing...
I think gear matters. I recently sold all of my Sony gear and went to Fuji. The Sony felt soulless and uninspiring. The Fuji is just fun, and as far as image quality I’d say it’s 96% of what my Sony A7r IV was. And, yes I want to go to Spain.
It’s nice to see the results of the documentary and the book finally. Gear is something that you want to get out of your way for the task at hand. Yesterday I took a Voigtländer Bessa II out on the street during a festival, and it is about the least appropriate camera for street or quick snapshots possible. So yes, the gear matters once you’ve got your basic needs met. But also I have been reviewing over fifteen years of digital photography in Lightroom and the results teach me that you don’t look at the photo and remember the camera very often. Looking at the metadata, I’ve often guessed wrong. I’ve owned Canons, Nikons, Fujis, a Leica M9 and the photos look way more similar than they have meaningful differences. In that sense, gear doesn’t at all matter. I’d love to see Malaga, or anywhere in Spain (with a camera and an empty stomach, especially). Nice job, I’m going to go watch that documentary now!
Nice video and update on you robin, and congratulations to your project, awesome photo book you and other members of that project. I followed you from the time your start shooting with leica m6 and other film cameras you used and bought along your journey, I inspired how you shoot with films, also leica m6, and later you do leica Q, Q2 monochrome ( by the you sold it?), and now leica Q3 nice improvement from previous model.
Gear matters, because it is your own personal choice of tool or tools to get or take photos, or encourage you to take outside, sometimes it's also experiencing new things in photography, new lens, new filters, etc. It's not the brand, it's more of the wants and needs and what makes you feel happy, enjoying using on daily basis or hobby. I wanted to visit the place you go, but right now Japanese yen is not good, but I'm happy to see you, with the new update videos and what you doing. Thank you Robin God bless 🙏👍📸
Congratulations! Strangely, I was already planning to go back to Málaga to see the Meyerowitz exhibition. We have family nearby.
Gear matters in the sense that each choice opens certain possibilities and closes others. Like you, I love the Leica Q (2 monochrom). But if I ever find it getting in the way of the images I want to make, I won't hesitate to change.
A year ago I bought the Ricoh GRIIIx after a ton of mirrorless cameras. This camera changed completely my perspective. Last December I bought my dream camera, the Leica Q3. After 6 months I sold it because of the focal lenght: it's too wide to me. In the meantime I started to use the flash and also this changed my perspective. Therefore, gear, as well as the study and exercise, matters
Thank You for the awesome video.
Gear does have a massive impact on me. I only found out about the great community and unbelievable hobby film photography is, because I searched for cheap old lenses for my digital camera. Now I have gear acquisition syndrome and only shoot film. Why? because of the gear, the haptic nice sensation and the dedication one needs. To slow down, measure, focus manually etc.
Most of my friends now want to borrow my cameras to try themselves after not only noticing the cool look of my gear but after the first touch and picture they took.
I dont think gear makes you a better photographer but I do think it makes for a pleasant experience. This leads to better mood -> less stress -> more focus -> more creativity -> better pictures.
Have a nice one and thank You 🤝
If you love your gear and enjoy using it then there is more chance you will practise your craft and grow your creativity. Who knows where that will then take you and your photographic endeavours?
We just need to be weary of overly focusing on gear - at the expense of getting out and being creative.
I really enjoyed watching the various RUclips videos posted by the participants in the Andalucia project - seeing the different styles and approaches. I’m looking forward to spending some time in Andalucia next year myself.
Gear matters, without gear you couldn’t photograph. Once you have gear (or anything that takes photographs), what matters is the photographer.
I was twice and now I’m eager to come back for Joel’s Exhibition.
For me there is one particular aspect why gear indeed matters: When I began with photography as a teenager there where cameras I could only dream of since I couldn't afford buying them at all. Nonetheless at this this age I developed a lifelong love for photography (also with the modest equipment that matched my tight budget). Nowadays I all the more enjoy buying my dream cameras of those long-gone times (e.g. a Nikon F2 and analog rangefinders) and insofar gear for me is also one reason I like coming back to film (in addidition to my digital cameras) so much.
Gear matters for me , i used the fuji XT-4 and later the XT-5 and shoot monochrom with it untill i saved enough money i bought myself a Leica M11 Monochrom > this changed everything related to quality of the photos .
Hello Robin, thank you very much for your videos, I love to watch them. Gear matters to inspire. I started my photography journey with a film photography, I had a DSL and I did not feel myself comfortable to take it with me every day and shoot street photography + I hated the colors and the look of my photographs, yes I wasn't even close to be okayish photographer. I found your and many other film photographer videos on youtube and got inspired to try. I bought my first film camera and tactile feeling of the buttons and dials + results on a beautiful portra inspired me to start my photography journey.
Now I'm okay to shoot film and digital, I can set up in manual mode any camera, I have several film cameras that I choose to shoot depending on my feelings, a weather outside, a film I plan to shoot and I have several digital cameras that I choose to use same way. So a gear matters for me for sure. I would like to tell that if tomorrow I would have only one camera with me - I would be happy to shoot it no matter what - just to get the results that I want. By the way - I love to shoot Sony A7 camera series, I don't think that I definately need Leica just to photograph.
No, I haven’t been to Malaga, but would sure like to visit.
I think gear does matter, even if in a different way than when most people think when justifying a purchase. Got to agree with Mike: it changes the experience of shooting. You said it well in the video, most modern cameras are capable of producing quality images. But the shooting experiences are as different as there are photographers, so the ideal gear for me, might not be for you or someone else.
Hello from California, yes, I think that gear matters. It’s like you said, it is how you feel when you use the camera. I love using my Leica Q3 or other Leica because it feels good in your hands and to me I’m making art. I think Spain is lovely and I hope to travel there again someday to take some photos. I lived there for a few years in the mid-70’s, but did not have a camera to capture the many beautiful places I traveled to. Thanks for a nice video .
Gear matters to me in the sense that the experience of shooting is different when I use my M6 or my A7IV. It’s not the results, it’s the joy of using the camera.
After watching the vlogs from most of the photographers involved in this project I’ve been considering doing a road trip through Andalusia.
I’m clearing space for a forthcoming Q. What I’m looking for in a camera now is a soulmate that won’t hold me back. Just a simple travel companion with exquisite taste who won’t ask too much of me. A quiet friend who’s a joy to be with.
Gear matters….well yes and no! As the years progress I value simplicity (prime lenses are so much more rewarding), but shooting analogue on 40 year old kit again as well as newish digital makes me smile! I will try and get to Malaga for the exhibition if I can.
For me, gear matters in the sense of if it inspires me to use it or not. Gear also matters depending on the type of photo assignment you will be doing.
Gear is all subjective. If gear is important to you then it absolutely matters. If the image is the most important thing to you and there are plenty of gear options for cheap that will do just fine compared to more expensive options. Specifically with film cameras. All they are is a light sealed box. The film stock and the glass are the most important.
Also great work, congrats on the doc and the book! Hoping to get out to Spain in the near future!
Gear CAN matter. Sometimes experiencing the limitation of a piece of gear can heighten the creative mindset. OR a new piece of gear can make the mind feel refreshed and can influence creativity in a new way. The eye and the skills still lay inside the operator however. If you don’t enjoy the gear, or if it doesn’t “click” with you, it can also put a damper on that creativity.
I just visited Andalucia a few months after your trip. I saw almost all the places that you guys had covered. Took some pictures too but I'd be very much interested in seeing such a beautiful corner of the world through your eyes too. Gear? It does matter. When it's a hobby then the gear should motivate you picking it up in a first place. When it's a profession, the gear the one that helps you putting food on the table.
Thanks for the great video 👍🏻 Please keep it up. I'm part of Team Gear matters. A camera is not just a tool for taking photos/videos. It can also be a motivation to go out and take photos and a fashion accessory. I haven't been to Malaga yet, but the video is a good advertisement for this beautiful city.
Gear does matter more for one than the others. Anyway, if you can afford it and you like it just go for it. I really enjoy your Channel. and the project in Malaga was great. I'm sure you're really enjoy it. Congratulations. I have been in Malaga last year for work, and I absolutely looking forward to go there again.
I think for some genres gear doesn't matter but once you head into certain niches (wildlife, macro,sports) gear does start to matter.... Meanwhile Málaga is somewhere I'd like to visit
Gear matters. Even if it is just a tool, it still matters in any profession. Like right boots matter for a hike or umbrella in a rainy day, same applies to photography gear. It is just the experience and preference that changes for a photographer. When it's dark, some will get faster lens, but some will use flash, and in the end result will be same, but different.
Gear matters if it motivates going out and taking pictures. What gear it is at the end does not matter, it is just all about photography. Malaga and Costa Del Sol is one of the most beautiful places with great people and awesome food. Thanks Robin for the video, it makes wanna go to Malaga and of course taking some pictures ;)
Great video! Cool to see you and Mike together. I love cameras and lenses as much as I love taking pictures, so gear definitely matters to me. I don’t get why some photographers hate talking about gear, for me it’s all part of the same thing. Whatever inspires you to go and explore with a camera. Malaga looks interesting, hope to visit one day!
Robin, thanks for sharing your journey with us! I hope I can view the documentary as well. As for gear, yes I basically agree with you and Mike. There are technical aspects of making a photo that you need to have the right gear to create. This is how it matters in the basic sense. The other aspect is your style of shooting and personal preferences. For me, I like simplicity and a minimalist approach. The less settings to fiddle with on my camera means more time thinking about creating something. I also think that the right gear for someone is stuff that makes them comfortable and augments their capabilities as an artist, rather than getting in the way.
Gear matters to me because as well as enjoying photography I collect cameras and gear. I like trying out new to me cameras, learning to use them and even repairing them. I like experimenting with different gear, to me its part of the fun of photography. I have not been to Malaga yet but would love to go one day.
Gear does matter, I have added a pancake lens to my Fuji X-T4 and I am taking it everywhere with me, taking more street pics. I would love to go to Malaga, I have heard wonderful things about the city. I can't wait to get my first leica soon, your videos have inspired me to do so. Keep up with the great work
To me gear matters! Ima camera chick inspires me to go out and shoot matters! My Q3 and M11 are going with me to Europe this summer for that exact reason. Image quality now isn’t the issue - all modern cameras can turn out a great photo. Btw - am going to try out the sling bag idea for my trip.
Hi Robin, Thanks for the video. Your question prompts us to consider whether the tools are important to the experience and process rather than just the expression itself. I believe gear does matter. If we consider photographers as artists, then cameras are essentially the tools of their trade. These tools impact the workflow, the creative process, and the artist's approach to their work. For photographers, the choice of camera can influence how they perceive and capture the world.
Hi Robin :) Old time follower from Sweden. Nice video frist of all, was nice watching you go through that amazing experience and be a fly on the wall. Seeing your reaction to that beautiful project and film being on the big screen. Very cool :)
So if gear matters? Yes i really think it does, but not in the perspective of quality or technical specs etc. Or at least it does not for me, i like you also shoot film and for me the feel and handling of the camera and character of the lens is what matters the most to me. And most of my gear choices are affected by those qualities more than anything else.
As i once said on this channel several years ago before getting my first Q, your videos inspired me somewhat do get one to begin with. And it was my beginning into Leica and up until now that has continued to be cameras and lenses that inspires me a lot still.
So yes, in that regard it really matters a lot!
Never been to Malaga actually, and never really had any real incentive to go. But it looks nice and after seeing this you at least opened my eyes to te possibility, looks awesome :)
Cheers! Regards Martin.
I've never been to Malaga but it looks like a nice place to shoot. Gear certainly matters. Beyond the performance aspects of being able to reliably capture what you experience, the gear selected can have a role in determining how your vision is artistically portrayed by varying lenses to achieve a specific field of view or depth of field, as well as how the lens renders colours, bokeh, contrast etc. Gear that is a joy to use, and keeps up with your expectations or not can determine your enjoyment of the shoot and either motivate you to shoot more or be a nuisance and discourage you if it doesn't do what you need it to.
Gear matters? Not really, today most cameras can create a pretty good result. It’s more a question about the creativiy of the person behind the VF. Guys like you who knows how to catch the moment.
Yes, gear matters. As you said rightly, today's cameras can produce exceptionel results, but the feel of the camera matters very much! Congrats on the Spanish project!
For me gear does matter. I can connect with Mike’s take, the experience with your gear has to emotionally connect and if it does it can inspire one to use it more often. And as most know, the key to good photography is to take a lot of images and stay current with your photography. I have been to Spain in the summer, down in Rota. Next time I’ll go in the off season when it’s not as hot 😅
Totally agree, while of course your own abilities are part of the equation, gear does matter in the technical aspect as well to a certain degree. But also, how you connect with the camera and other tools is also important. If it feels good to use, then it inspires you to go out and use them. Heck, had I not made the silly decision to get an M240 last year, I wouldn't have gotten back into photography at all.
As for Malaga, I'm not sure if I would go there as I'm not so familiar with the place (I wouldn't say no if someone flew me there, of course) but I really want to go out and travel to actually put all this accumulated gear to use.
Yes & No. No because a photographer can pick up any camera and able to use it and capture pictures. Yes depending on the style of photography you enjoy photographing. Like some camera are better suited and your style. I think it’s the focal length that matters more than the camera. It’s all up to the individual what choice that will suit them.
I think gear matters to a point, in a similar way that Mike mentioned, certain lenses (or focal lengths) definitely can impact our photography. I’ve been to Malaga once, last year and it was incredible (but very hot since it was July 🥵) I would love to visit again in a different season.
Gear matters, but it's about picking the right gear for the job. I also think that too many new photographers get the wrong idea about the gear that they need, and sadly it's a lot of the RUclips content that fuels the GAS.
Gear does matter.....ish! It matters technically to the pint it allows you to create the images you want or need to, but after that point of entry its no longer an issue. The other way it might matter is what it enables you to do and how it makes you feel when you use it. That definitely matters when it comes to art.
Only briefly been to Malaga ince for a work trip and would love to go back to see and photograph it in detail. Looks a lovely place.
When audience see your imagens, they don't care which gear or setting or any technical aspect was used to get the imagen, they only care is about the results, the final imagen. For me is more important to have a purpose, an objective, a project to work on it, and based on this select the best tool (gear) that help me to accomplish it. Gear should never be the center of your work, because once the love is gone you will in need to find a new gear (new love) that inspire you to go out to shoot more.
Not so much for general pictures, I took great pics with phone as well, however, the feelings of the subject are definitely different with a camera and you feel it especially with kids and their attention.
I have not been to Malaga but would love to one day! I think gear absolutely matters. I just bought a Leica myself and it makes me want to take photos everyday! It may just be the honeymoon phase but this time it feels different.
Wonderful video! Yes I think gear matters. If you got the right gear, it forces You to go out really wanting to create as good as possible and you also inspire you even more to do it better next time you're out there or try out an other way....Keep on the good work, you really inspire us to go out there and shot some photos!
I think Mike Chudley nailed it - you once get past a baseline of decent cameras, it’s all about experience + utility/match with workflow needs.
I agree with Mike that gear matters in the sense that it has to fit with your work flow and it has to help inspire you to want to go out there and make work. I have never been to Malaga or anywhere in Spain. The country looks beautiful!
it matters, exactly how the two of you said. i am bringing my leica everywhere because i simply love how it feels and shoots. my old 5d was nice but too big and ugly 😅
Yes, gear matters, yes I’ve been to Malaga and third yes I want the book 😂. Btw is the movie only available on youtube? Best!
the gear for me it is important, the feeling with it improve the confidence when you are in the streets
I went ti Malage some days during a road trip done in 2010, it is amazing during the fiesta
I agree with you on gear. It only matters in whether or not you like using it. And ive been to galicia but no other part of spain . Hopefully will see the rest soon . Now please pick me to get that book 😊
Gear matters a lot to me. I'm totally a gear head first and photographer second. And as far as visiting Malaga of course it would a an awesome place to see.
The fact that you felt the need to get the S5II over the S5 pretty much gives away your personal attitude on that question. :)
This is a great, fresh take on this topic and I agree - gear does matter - but it matters for reasons inherent to the owner. It’s subjective, not objective.
the documentary definitely makes a strong case for visiting the south of spain.
I‘m in love with Andalusia, will be back in Sevilla in two weeks 😊 I would love to win the book
Gear definitely matters! You will shoot more with gear that inspires you.
It matters that the gear that you use fades away and allows you to take images as a flow of thought. It does not matter how new, shiny or state of the art it is.
Gear dose matter not as quality wise but as personal preference 👌🏻
Gear matters because it set the stage for your journey of discovery 🎉
Of course it matters, I have finally found tools that i like.
Gear matters and the gear you use influence your taste and desire of craft
Gear matters, but it also not. All depends on the context.
Io a Malaga non ci sono mai stato ma tu in Italia quando ci vieni? Allora ascolta, quando deciderai di venire in Italia porterai anche il libro... se la macchina fotografica è importante? Te lo dico quando verrai in Italia. Un caro saluto.
Malaga is beautiful and gear definitely matters.
Ich glaube das Kameraequipment auf jeden Fall eine wichtige Rolle spielt, auch wenn manchmal nur aus haptischen Gründen oder anderer Bedienung. Und einige Fotos kannst du auch einfach schwer mit einem 200mm Objektiv oder so machen ;) Malaga finde ich tatsächlich schon länger interessant, habe mich aber bei meinem letzten Foto-Trip für Istanbul entschieden...
Gear matters. Es ist grundsätzlich schön sich mit der Technik zu befassen, aber es darf sich nicht darauf beschränken. Schliesslich zählt ja ein gutes Foto am Schluss! Danke für deine tollen Videos! LG aus Österreich
Deine Videos sind klasse. Nach Malaga werden wir auch noch reisen hoffentlich schon mit einer gebrauchten Leica Q2 im Gepäck. Es ist ein langer Traum von mir diese Kamera zu besitzen.
A camera matters only so far as you can't take a picture without one. Not sure why you didn't edit out the part about the photo exhibit. Just because you were disappointed doesn't mean I needed to be too. I gave up on the video after that.
I let it in for a reason but in order to understand why, you need to watch further. 😶🌫️
Главное любовь к тому что ты делаешь)
Chudders!
Hi Robin, great video with Mike, another favourite of mine. The video filmed in Malaga was additional fun, because we've been there last year and stayed at the exact hotel where you filmed the pool video at the beginning. Weired. We'll be back in Malaga in October and I'm very much looking forward to that!
Gear matters, I'm with Mike here. Photography is the combination of tech and creativity. It's important how the tech feels to be creative. Of course I'd love to win the book 😂
Hi Robin - I found your story very interesting of how buying a Q in 2015 impacted your journey as a photographer. As both you and Mike shared there are many high quality cameras available, but once you find one that is most suitable for the type of photography you do, I believe plays a huge role in contributing to the creative process. I also was introduced to Leica by buying a Q. The first time I shot with it, I became hooked. The camera felt comfortable in my hands, I really liked the minimalist layout of the camera and menu and I was blown away by the image quality that the lens produced. I’ve heard people say that a camera is nothing more than a tool, which I suppose is true, but some bring us more joy when using them and in turn fuels our creativity. On another note, Southern Spain seems to be a very cool part of Europe. Thanks for the video.