Brendan Goss I absolutely agree. It's easy to be blinded by the wonders of technology and forget about the story. I have had to invest in new cameras specifically because I've been trying to get more into videography as a business, but I have done that so I can pay for college and actually have something of a budget for my passion work, so it balances out. If someone wants to exclusively focus on narrative and documentary filmmaking, though, you don't need to invest so heavily in technology. Invest in your story, because in the end, that should matter more to you, otherwise, you're in the wrong profession entirely.
Brendan Goss - It's also against the 10 Commandments of Filmmaking. "To even look upon a camera with lust is to commit adultery with it in your heart." - Tripod 3:17
*20 years later* "Why I *Still* Won't Buy a New Camera" *40 years later* "Why I *STILL* Won't Buy a New Camera" *60 years later* "Why I Used Only One Camera My Entire Life"
Honestly, every time I look at my camera and want to upgrade, I just watch Simon's videos and I instantly feel better about my gear. Also, nice T-Shirts, definitely getting one soon.
Seems like he's posting these as soon as I'm almost going to upgrade my reason. And then I watch the video and feel bad for choosing a new camera...sigh
The expenses don't stop at that one camera either, you'll end up spending money for all the bits and bobs that go with the camera too. E.g. wanna shoot high bitrate 4K? You'll need a computer that can edit and grade 4K etc.
Keep the good work with your t3i. I hope you don't change it. Its so important to show how the gear is not that important. I was kind of unhappy with my t5i, then I started watching your videos and learned that my camera is awesome, I just needed better light and color grading. I was almost sucked at this black hole of upgrading the gear expecting it to solve the problem of better content/quality/etc.
bro just understand where he's coming from. like simon says you dont need a really expensive camera to make videos. chill out and you may not agree with simon but at least respect his views
The t3i is horrendously outdated. It's fantastic to learn with but this day and age it's just becoming irrelevant. Sure, it gets a good image but clients will want slow motion and 4k and high dynamic range and better low light. Check out Sony's lower end mirrorless cameras a6000, a6300, a6500. They're far superior than canon's rebel line and offer so much more.
as much as i love seeing a crisp, clean 4K HDR image, i have a 4K HDR TV and lack of support from mainstream media at the moment as well as on demand services such as Netflix and prime video doesn't justify the added cost of the TV. until more services start supporting 4K and HDR then it may just become a fad that just fades away in a similar way to 3D. and thats quite sad because it looks amazing when done right
I have a different attitude: Gear isn't the most important thing in making a movie but it definitely does help in making it better. Ultimately it's all about lighting, lenses and the person behind it tbh
DSLRguide I would say if you can afford it and pay it off and make money off it I'm fine with buying good gear. Obviously not everyone is gonna need a RED or Alexa for everything but everyone has different needs
It's not really about if you can afford it. It's about what you can't afford if you use you money on an expensive cameras. There's more important things, like acting, color grading, storytelling, screen writing, music, etc....
JJSculpting like I mentioned it's different for everyone. one person could be able to buy a camera like the a7s ii and pay it off instantly others couldnt.
But you would still have less money to create the everything else you project needs, because you have used a big percentage on the camera. Yes, if you have a budget 500.000 dollars it makes sense, because the camera would be a small percentage. If not, i think there's more important stuff to spend you money on.
I agree with what you're saying to an extent, but I also think you're setting up some false dichotomies as well. $300 Camera vs $3000 Camera. But there are plenty of cameras in between that would be a huge increase in image quality for not much more money than what you spent on your t3i, like the Panasonic G7 for example. Spending all your time learning about cameras instead of learning about filmmaking craft. Can't you do both? Are they mutually exclusive? Can you build a house with just a cheap hammer and hand saw? Sure, but why would you want to other than to prove a point? Better tools will make the job faster, easier and more precise. Buying a nicer camera won't make you a better filmmaker, but becoming a professional filmmaker means that your tools eventually need to match the level of your craft.
No! Stop! Please! You're making me change my mind! I don't want to spend more money! But look it's so shiny!! But I don't need it!! Yes you do, buy it!!!Ahhhhhh
I agree 100%... There comes a point where one can be an amateur or cross the bridge to become a professional. A professional in any arena in life comes with professional tools. I have worked on large projects and I always make sure my teams have the right tools for the work and it makes a huge difference. You can save money on the front end, but it always costs you on the back end and can significantly impact delivery... besides clients have certain expectations and you need to meet those expectations if you want bigger and better work.
IMO, and I think Simon would agree, it's not about the money. If you limit yourself by what camera you use, it forces you to actually BE a better filmmaker, not just seem like a better filmmaker. For example: Sure, Panasonic G7 can shoot 4k. Why not buy that? Only a few hundred dollars more than the T3i, right? Well 4k is going to allow you to get better low light shots, and better resolution, and even punch in an entire 100% of ur frame if you wanted to. However, having all of those things can make you lazy. You can get better low light with 4k, so why setup a light plot? You can just use the light available, because you'll be able to get a clean shot anyway now that your low light is just a bit better. Don't bother taking the time to think about how you can make the shot more interesting with light, because you can now get the shot you want without lighting gear. Better resolution? The shot will look great anyway cuz it's in 4k, why do I have to think about composition and lighting and all of the other things that makes a film so great? Don't have a lens with a long enough focal length? Whatever. Just shoot in 4k and punch in. These are clearly all extreme examples but definitely possible. Having a good camera can make you lazy if your creative mind isn't working properly. Being able to shoot at 120fps can mess with your head. ME for example. I do a lot of church video. It's super easy for me to just shoot at 120fps and slow it down to make it look cinematic, instead of actually thinking about how I can make my shots look more cinematic. Everything looks cinematic in slow motion. But it doesn't really require any effort. All I'm saying is, having a camera that can do the work for you is sometimes dangerous when you have a tough situation that your camera can fix. Rather than doing the work to fix it and putting in the time to solve the problem, you just crank the ISO or shoot in slow motion or shoot in 4k or whatever the camera can do that will solve your problem. I'm highly considering going back to a T3i for all my serious shoots because I keep finding that my videos have gotten worse since I got an a6500. Probably because I bought it to fix the problems I was having, rather than using as a tool to my already refined craft.
Still using my 8+ year old GH2 for daily content. Am only considering a new camera for stabilization, slow mo, and that my audio input is finally dying.
There are a lot of voices who say not to get caught up in camera list - but not many who practice what they preach. Kudos to you on making such unbelievably great content! What a great example and inspiration.
its really really satisfying when you do wait for your skills to truly catch up with your gear. When you buy a new piece of equipment, not because its cool or you want it (though it is perfectly ok to just want cool stuff because its cool), but because i really will help you or allow you do do new things. Its a great feeling, and the camera tends to sit on the shelf a lot less often then when you buy something out of GAS.
I kinda disagree too. I mean, upgrading to a A7s or even mk2 isnt THAT expensiv when you use ist for years (like your t3i) and the benefits that you get out of will def help your filmmaking. And i am not just talking about resolution. I think about things like filming in log, (real) slowmotion ability, focus peaking, zebra, and so on. And even just 1080p looks 10 times sharper on the a7s vs t3i. But i mean if you really want to, go for it. Not trying to be mean, just my thoughts about it
I Agree with most of your points, but there is an oversight in this side of the argument, let me explain my opinion: 1) Budgeting doesn't work that way, there's a reason it's called an investment, like the way your t3i is used for years, if I buy a A7S II today for $3000 and use it to shoot 100 project over the course of next 4 years, it's like 30 bucks per project 2) Content Quality isn't determined by Pixel Resolution is a GREAT MENTALITY, I can't deny that, but what if in the coming years 4K master become the new de-facto if you want a Home Video, or even Theatrical Release, you wouldn't be able to do that with a t3i (even now, What If you need to shoot at 120 fps because 60 fps just isn't slow enough, a t3i can't do that), and this leads to the third point 3) Demand, If Consumer wants 4K, it will get adopted widely, If they wanted HDR, It will get adopted, if something gets widely adopted by consumer, it becomes standard. Camera and A/V Manufacturers will push these standards, there will be a point in the future when producers will demand 4K or HDR if you want to get the budget, and you will need that budget if you want to make a movie beyond indie (you can't spend time and energy focusing 100% on creating films if you don't have money to eat, you need an income to buy a new camera too, and when it become your full time profession, you need to realize and oblige what the standard is) we see this time and time with Stereo, Surround, FHD, (Even IMAX and Atmos in case of theater screens) and now 4K/HDR 4) Your Point that I agree is don't get in the hype, if you're asking "do i really need this new fancy-ass RED Camera everyone is getting" or "maybe i should get this camera, everyone said it's great, and it will maybe improve my work" than you don't need it, spend anywhere else, but if you find yourself in need for those extra resolution, RAW Shooting capability, ability to shoot with barely any light (A7S II is popular for a reason) or any other feature those thousand dollar cameras have, don't feel guilty buying a new camera 5) As Indie Creators, It's easy to say "spend more time on the story", in high level production, other people do these kind of "what camera to use" for the director, there are separate camera directors and operators, The Director do occasionally discuss this, as he/she will always takes place in most decision making, but in fact, GEAR wouldn't determine the content, A Better Gear doesn't make you more lazy in creating and kill your skill, and an outdated gear wouldn't end your career as a filmmaker, but there is need for a balance between these "creative hermits" and "consumerist businessman" mentality if you want to survive, and if you don't want to, just let others take care of those stuff for you, just don't actively resist it from your hands like a hot potato In The End I don't want to undermine any of your point, especially in the indie community, emphasizing content over gear is important, because we're the ones who can easily get deceived by these hype marketings, but Hollywood don't use Arri Alexas for bragging rights or just because they can, it's because they need it. I had a coffee with my old film teacher a few months ago, in his class he always says things similar to what you said in this video, but near our graduation he said to us: "When you leave this class the situation is different, when you need a new camera, don't blame that you can't cover your gear's shortcoming with your skills, at that time it's you skill and level in film making that has outgrown your camera, just like when you move from your smartphone camera to your first DSLR two years ago at the start of the class"
Tbh I have no idea of cameres or whatsoever but your voice and the way you edit your videos is so calming it's amazing. I could listen to you for hours!
I have been in the business for 22 years, what you are saying is very wise. You are are very talented and you will very shortly be blessed with the budgets that will allow for you to have the cameras of your dreams, mark my word. Your current focus is so clean and your spirit is right, your talent shows it. You are so right about your view on consumerism. I have a C100, a C300, a xf300, a 6d, a5DMKII, a 50D, a 40D and awhole lot of other stuff and I want a C700 and a C300MKII and don't even have a job lined up for it. You have helped me off the roof, Thank you . . .
i have learnt so much from you simon but it's about time you make a upgrade. i saw the frustration in you "not as simple as 'follow your dreams' " video and i can completely relate to that but the scale of a project you will be working requires more than T3i. i don't mean to say t3i does not shoot well but there are so many cameras out there which will improve your quality by substantial amount without breaking your bank. please buy something like Gh4 and sigma 17-35 lens, or a6500 and check the quality for yourself and see the difference. you will have alot less to work on post processing. i hope the best for you simon. cheers
really? i been using t3i for last 3 years and thinking to upgrade and gh4 seems to have great reviews on sites. To know pros and cons from owner itself would be great. please let me know you experience Haldered, Thank you!
I just wish the 4K performance would be better... 30 FPS and crop. No 60 FPS 4K. And 1080p is full of noise at night video and @120 FPS the bitrate is too low. The camera comes with a lot of disadvantages hence the cost.
P3rform3rDesign I understand what you are saying but the advantages for me personally, far outweigh the disadvantages. I only shoot In 24fps so I can't really comment on the other frame rates.
it depends on what you shoot , if you make money from videos , then you need to keep up and expand , if you are a casual shooter who focuses mostly on an art piece , then the existing system is good enough . ive had the same experience , shot with my nikon d5200 and it was horrible , now i shifted for a G7 and its a whole new experience
I've been watching a lot of your videos this morning, and I am really impressed with how wise, practical, and down-to-earth you are. That can be hard to find in this industry, and its really encouraging. Thank you, and keep up the good work.
Ok. You really got me. I've been wrecking my time doing insane amounts of research on cameras. Canon 77D, 80D, a7s mark 2, G85, GH5... It's a crazy list and when I do lock on to one camera that I think I like, I take another look at my 7D and am just not convinced about whether I should spend my money on another camera for video
GAMINGFOREXPERTS The 1DX MK2 can do 4k I think... but that doesn't really count because in 2017 you shouldn't have to spend over £4000 to get 4k video.
i think you made a great point. The same principle applies to music production for example. When you stick with normal prices mic's and music production software, its kind of about you building up the skill to make these limited samples sound good. if you just go for the most expensive sample packs right away, you will never learn how to mix/eq/compress cheaper sounds to sound real good. Missing out on a lot of learning possibilities ...
Conterpoint: owning a high end camera can get you gigs. I would argue that you should consider camera equipment a PR and marketing expense and not a production equipment expense. Having a Canon c300 is expensive, but what if owning a $10,000 camera gets you one $10,000 gig you wouldn't have gotten without it? I'd add that most filmmakers are trying to get clients, where as "Gone Girl" is trying to get tickets. Small commercial or indie filmmakers sell themselves based on clout and capabilities where as Hollywood movies sell themselves on PR campaigns. You gotta switch the money buckets around, I think it's apples to oranges.
I would agree with this as well. Nothing better than showing up for a shoot with equipment that really gives off the professional vibe. And being able to pitch that you have professional equipment as well to get that gig. Not gonna show up to film a wedding with a g7x lol
I've never really thought of it like that... Whether a client 'practically' needs 4K or not is irrelevant, if you have the gear that's capable it's a great thing to tell them and could certainly be a pull factor between you and a competitor....
Good point Kyle! A professional appearance is important. On the other hand getting gigs is also about having connections and if the people know what you are capable of doing they don't care that much about your equipment. For me as a composer the expensive stuff doesn't help a lot in that matter, it's all hidden ;)
I totally disagree! You can't use a $10,000 camera with a $100 tripod, $200 lens, etc...right? I've found that before you know it, expensive pieces of gear exponentially grow in price once you realize that all of your gear should be at a similar level of quality.
i've never had a client / sponsor ask for 4K, or care about which camera I used. but in the high-end commercial industry they definitely would care. that's why everyone rents the big cameras for those. and thanks!
yeah, man. You are perfectly right. I spend a lot of time searching "golden tools", but always procrastinate when I need 2 or 3 hours to write a good scenario. Your advice it's very powerful thing for beginners. Thanks a lot
Right on simon. You know what id like to see. You take some footage and walk us through loading it into your editing program, showing us the settings you use in your program, color correcting, etc... And then finally rendering it. I mean maybe you could just make an episode of everything you went through to make that episode. I must say i really like your channel, your shared wisdom, honesty and professionalism.
How do you get such a clean image out of the T3i? I have a T5i, and my footage is usually pretty soft and compression artifacts appear with minimal grading. It's 1080p but looks like upscaled 720p. I think it's the compression.
I don't do anything fancy with compression, just standard H.264. For me, my footage looks soft & artifact-y when my footage is underexposed, or just doesn't have good lighting / enough light. If I were you, i'd focus on practicing lighting, and see what happens.
So, since your work is pretty dark in terms of color grading, do you simply expose properly (or perhaps over expose a bit to abuse the way h.264 compression works) and then bring it back down in post?
HOW TO GET CLEAN SMOOTH FOOTAGE : Make sure if your doing any kind of grading after, that first you shoot in the correct exposure and shutter settings, and 2nd make sure you are export with a high Bitrate preferably a variable bitrate, and make sure to overkill the bitrate if uploading to youtube ...OVERKILL IT since they cut anything you upload in half, right off the bat
as an actor this is so refreshing to hear. so many filmakers try to get proffessionals for next to nothing. probably down to what you say about equipment. its awesome you obviously value actors more. :)
The carbon fiber upgrade isn't just the body material, it also upgrades the processor which allows higher frame rates and higher data rates. It also makes the body lighter for gimbals and 3D rigs. Not necessary but if you're shooting with a multi million dollar budget, it's a good upgrade.
Most of the time, camera equipment is rented because the rental house manages repairs and upgrades. Sometimes they are purchases in the cases that buying a camera would be most cost effective than renting. For example The Hobbit required 48 Red Epic-X cameras since each rig needed 2 cameras for 3D and there were 12 rigs (cranes, steadicam, mancam, etc), plus 12 rigs for second unit. The rental cost would be way too much since they shot for I believe 266 days and an Epic-X at the time was probably 800-1200 a day.
All big studios buy their own equipment, they never rent a fucking thing. Only smaller studios rent, some cameras like those 70mm can only be rented so you have no choice, Tarantino rented his 70mm panavision.
You are definitely right in most your points, but it is very rare to find a movie that buys its cameras, renting is the way to go. But buying a new camera lets say a Red or Arri, Arri is definitely better than Red, will get you more work because clients want there product to look good and if they know you own a Red or Arri they will hire you.
So you basically say: It doesn't matter if you shoot good stuff as long as you own a RED (aka. lots of money) Everyone wants to hire you with an expensive camera. Thats a stupid statement.
Don't get me wrong, if you shoot good stuff and the right people see it its gonna lead you somewhere good (more jobs connections ect.) I should have stated it a little different, everyone has to start somewhere, I started with a t3i, now I use Arri's. But from all the people I know who personally own Reds and Arri's clients are able to look up there financials and see what they have a lease on or have had a lease on and see they leased an Arri or Red and because of that they have a higher chance of being hired. But where I come from (which is not owning a cinema camera) you can still get good jobs and get hired no matter what you have.
I agree with for the most part. I 100% believe that the story is more important than any camera's technology could ever be, but if you really really need a certain feature of a camera, then you can pull the trigger and invest. Say I really wanted a camera for its FPS. A camera for shooting concerts and one that could go super slo-mo, would that be a good investment?
I have had a t3i for 4 years and it still is an excellent camera. You did a great job reasoning out the pros and cons of buying anything including a camera. You have wisdom beyond your years. Good job!
Damn! I guess I couldn't be more in line with the way you think! I've been using the 60D for 6years and I don't see myself getting a new camera anytime soon! Yes, I got microphones, lights, desktop cpu for faster editing, but still, 60D gets the job done!
lumavisualexperience i got a 60d myself. And if i get more than 3-4 video-deals the upcoming year im definitely upgrading. Only beeing able to shoot 30fps is maddening. And if you don't have control over the light the quality can really take a hit
I had the same opinion for quite a while. I shot with the t4i for a couple years and loved it. As people around started upgrading to the GH4 and A7s I kept with the "Your skill is what makes your film great" mentality, which I still agree with.. But then I finally decided to sell the t4i for $600 and bought a G85 for $850 and spent $300 on a great lens. So I really only had to spend $550 to upgrade to a camera that would only showcase my skill even more. Plus the ability to shoot in 4k, shoot in slow motion, in body stabilization and so much more was so so worth the investment. So I agree that your skill is what makes your film great, but why insist on not upgrading when it really doesn't cost that much? Anyway, just my thoughts. You're a great filmmaker and I would love to see your stuff be complimented by great equipment.
Stonewall Johnson I think it's more of a humility thing. I think he feels he can do better. And he can. Check out canon france's official t3i film that was made to showcase the camera's ability. The most filmic I've seen a t3i look.
Let me start by saying, I think you're an incredibly insightful and thoughtful young filmmaker. I have been watching your content for the past year and I would be lying if I said I haven't learned anything from you. The way you logically and analytically express your views/ opinions is one of your greatest assets. Unfortunately, in this video though your logic failed me. Your David Fincher - Gone Girl example was completely irrelevant. As I'm sure you're aware, essentially all professional projects these days are shot primarily on ARRI, RED or film. Let's pull some figures out of the air here. If Fincher decided to shoot on ARRI, the camera and lens production cost would have maybe been 1 million dollars (1.6% of the total budget). If it was 35mm film it may have been over 1 million (maybe 1.9%). There are no other options. This is the case in all Hollywood productions. This doesn't mean that indie filmmakers should aim for similar figures. The comparison simply doesn't translate. I'm not saying you should get caught up in new camera hype and buy a new one every year. Rather, you should be smart with your investments and get the best quality gear in your reach. We look to Hollywood to learn the craft, to learn their practices. But we shouldn't blow our situation out of proportion and compare it to theirs. We shouldn't always strive to replicate Hollywood's decisions. For example: I don't feel the need to make a superhero film just because studios currently back that type of genre. In the same way, I don't feel the need to only use a low range DSLR just because it makes my financial decisions (budgets) proportional to Hollywoods'. And let's be honest - 8-bit H.264 T3i footage has its limits. No one is forcing you to buy a new camera. But, given your financial situation (500000 subscribers, products/ merchandise for sale and sponsorships) the only reason you're still using this T3i is pride - that you think you're good enough to produce quality content without expensive gear (which no one argues with btw). However, this shouldn't involve you refusing to upgrade cameras on the grounds of some ridiculous comparison. Seek any self-justification you want, but deep down surely you know you can reach for more.
cientos de peliculas estrenadas en el cine estan hechas con 7d canon y t3i canon. Eso quiere decir que se puede estrenar una pelicula de bajo presupuesto con una dslr y ganar dinero con ello.
makes a lot of sense, surprised you did not mention lighting or post production as the basic area to improve image before upgrading your camera body or your lens. i believe the thing that cost not much, does not take long to add but that bring a lot to the emotional impact of the movie is finding a good music. sure you can find elevator music for free that will fill the void but a really compelling music will turn a "ok" movie into a "great" movie.
just go and buy an a6500 and use and adapter and continue to use ur canon lenses. u will be blown away by the 4k quality and the camera is so cheap considering the pro image quality you get
yeah, there's only one thing i think is left out in this video: when you divide the cost of the camera in the total film budget, you should consider that you don't buy a new camera for every film. so if you shoot 5 movies you could divide the cost of a 6300 around those. yet this vid does make me feel better about owning a T6 :,v
I find that the best time to buy now is on the production run out when the price often halves so you can get pretty good quality for an excellent price. You're right though when you say focus on craft makes the biggest difference.
For those who disagree with him, Simon's films, attitude and skills probably surpass yours by miles. That's why he's thriving as a youtuber and filmmaker, while you are here mumbling BS trying to justify the money you dumped on your expensive camera (if you even make films at all).
I attempted to leave a comment on another of your videos but could not. Maybe it was too long. I just want to tell you that I am pushing 80 years old and just started into videography. I find you speak clearly, concise and pass on information that is relevant. I subscribed to your channel. Thank you.
I agree with simon. he's exactly right. staying with your camera will only make you better at film making, having you use all of your resources to the max. then , when you can't do anything else to optimize your films, you get a new camera. this increases your creativity and resourcefulness. a camera is only a tool, not your savior. if you don't have the necessary skills to film a good film, but you have a nice camera, your finished product will plainly be a piece of shiny crap. period.
hahaha thats true. and you can see those shity films/video's here on youtube. So many people buy those expensive camera but don't know how to use them and make those crapy videos. just get to know the camera you have and take the best out of it. in the end if you know your stuff u can always make great films
hahhah :D , Well having two of the same is different argument for not upgrading.Just kidding... Actually you are right but buying new gear is great experience which by itself is satisfying.The main difference is when you know that buying gear is based on emotional decision more than rational.
I disagree with the mathematics at the start. You don't buy a camera on this level for just one single production. Also - working for some clientele, there are different needs with this 4K emerging world and broadcast.
that is a fair point. the hollywood movies usually rent too, so their percentage would be less than 0.6% too. I should have worded it "the cameras they are using are worth 50,000 " and "indie filmmakers use cameras that are worth 3000"
Thanks for replying. I strongly admire the approach for not having too much of a dependency upon the equipment and I personally own an a7s and a 600D both of which I use equal amounts depending on the circumstances and requirements of the project.
Incredible mate!!! I needed to hear that. I'm so focused that I need a drone to make my videos much better. That I forgot my style of filming and tell stories has nothing to do with that. Thank you so much for this video.
Improving your gear allow you to improve the story more than you think. Slow motions can help the story, my 6D can't shoot slow motion neither does your T3i unless you go for interpolation which works in very specific ways only. Color grading also helps the story and the overall feeling. Shooting on a camera that shoots 10bits or raw will bring you a world of difference. having an internal stabilisation system prevent you from having too much gears to carry around and also helps the visual feeling of the shoots. Seeing what you are producing, I understand that you wouldn't. This is not the case of everyone, and certainly not my case and what I've learned working in various companies in many years. What your stating mostly apply to your self only. Although you are right on one thing: Having a better camera doesn't make the story getting better. But buying a better camera doesn't mean you are not focused on the story as well.
But these cameras shot real 60fps That can be interpreted to 24fps (equals to 40% of speed) Or what do you mean by real slow motions? I'm not very experienced at this and i wanna really know bro
MsMoeb I mean this question genuinely... Could one shoot 90% of the shots on the cheaper camera and then rent a higher end camera for the day for slow mo shots? If this was done on 10 projects how would the math unfold? Would the cost be about the same or much cheaper for one or the other?
You don't want to do that lol. The drop in quality from the slow motion shots of an a7s ii for example to the normal shots of a t3i would be extremely noticeable and not match the rest of your project whatsoever.
Having features is nice, but not absolutely necessary. His point is that it's better to use what you already have than to perpetually chase new shiny stuff because you get new shiny features. Technically a T3i can shoot slow motion if you use 720p and a higher frame rate than your project's normal frame rate; I have done this many times by shooting at 60p for a 24p production. 10-bit color, RAW, and log formats are somewhat overrated and add significantly to storage requirements and editing/render time and require extra skills; the rule with 8-bit cameras is to get it as right as possible in-camera and avoid the "flat" and CineStyle junk that might be good on 10-bit cameras but just ruin the footage on cheaper ones.
Story is king. everything else is subservient to the story. I think you proved this last time by making a neat film with a really cheap camera. I don't care what "K" you shoot in if your story sucks, you suck! Good stuff Simon. You never disappoint.
This video has helped me more to decide what camera to buy than all of the videos about cool cameras and all the features the new cameras have that every manufacturer wants you to believe that you need
for you no need to buy a new camera at least this year, because canon is slow to add new features. We can illustrate that by comparing your camera and the latest models in Canon DSLR line.
Good point. No need to upgrade to a *Canon* camera. If Canon ever puts 4K and a decent codec in a DSLR for under $2K... that will be a proud moment for them... finally joining the 2010's. LOL
Great message, I'm a photographer with a nikon D750 and willing to do film, but I was stuck with not having the right camera, I'm going to get the best of it! and as someone said, I will return to this video again and again, thxs!
Congratulations that you've found this amount of wisdom at this age and don't need to waste time. There is another aspect to what you're saying that holds true for most hobbyist or semiprofessional people who do things like movies besides day jobs: they have money to invest in cameras. But they have no time to invest into learning storytelling, learning framing, learning to deal with actors, getting the best set designer, learning about light etc. I also keep my t3i, btw :D
I bought an A7sii and a Ursa Mini 4.6k. Both of them were paid off in 2 1/2 months of freelancing. Seriously, it's not that hard to upgrade. You make it sound like people should be shamed for upgrading.
agree , if the camera budget is 10% of what you earn for a year , or if you can dish it out to make more money then you can get it . but i think that dslr guide was born with the Rebel T series so it might stay that way as there are shooters who still have a small budget or old equipment out there . if he goes for a blackmagic ursa or c100 then the sole purpose of teaching will be lost and we might see a film riot style channel (but i seriously do think that he needs to upgrade )
Even though my parents had bought themselves a high end camera for a couple hundred euros, for my best project ever I chose a decade (or more) old small 720p camera. It still made me more proud than ever about my video. I can confirm it's the knowledge (which I have acquired through your channel) that makes the film a film and not just a home recording.
Very well put young man. Wisdom has dawned upon you at an early age. You have a great future ahead. All the very best. Thank you for taking the time to put this excellent presentation on RUclips.
Just get a new camera Lol. You're being limited by what your t3i can do man. I don't care if you're trying to prove a point that gear doesn't matter, but in the long run you're only holding yourself and your content back. With your talent, your videos could look 100x better with a newer camera. I suggest getting a full frame camera like the Canon 5d mkIV or a Sony A7S ii. In my opinion, gear does matter
Kaipo Fitisemanu I agree. A new camera will pay itself off quickly; in fact his whole argument is flawed. Buying new technology will expand his prospects and make him more hireable
I feel what he's trying to prove or show is that using an entry level camera over a pro one , increases and hones your skills and teaches you a lot more things.
Gnarly Rascal Buying an entry level camera won't 'teach you more things' - a beginner just wouldn't be able to utilize the features of a professional camera enough to justify spending the money. However, many people *know* why they need certain new features; there are many reasons to invest in new gear, that are totally disregarded in this video.
Here in Brazil isn't a matter os choice, but an imposition. In a place where the cameras are extremely expensive (a A7SII body costs around 14 minimum salaries haha), the high tech cameras are only available for TV, high level cinema and few commercial producers... And richs, of course. Your philosophy guides me through an alternative way and the results drives all this people crazy. Thanks Simon.
there is a huge difference between smart with your budget and being cheap.. and using outdated gear when you have said yourself that it would improve your videos a lot, is just dumb. I get the angle your saying be well rounded etc fix your other skills before spending more on gear etc..but gear should also never limit you or hinder your project. so if better gear exist and would make other things easier for you, then it's clearly worth the investment. especially with a 6 yr old camera
There's certain kind of hipsterism/snobbyness with not upgrading when it's time to upgrade. GH5 might be expensive, but what about G85? This video is soft btw, I hope it's intentional? If not, it really is time to upgrade to something better.
Some great points, I like the shirt & graph too. This can apply to many things. There comes a time when the camera is weakest link but perhaps not as soon as we may think.
This video needs to be watched by more indy filmmakers. We love to get caught up in the camera hustle. I kept my T2i for 5 years after I bought it, then my BMPCC for 2 years, now I have a GH4 which I think I will hang on to for quite some time. The in-camera slow motion is my favorite part of having this camera. Though I can achieve some of the same crispy goodness with my old T2i, I honestly can't compare the 2. The GH4 is the better piece of equipment at the end of the day (to me), BUT, the creation process of using the T2i challenged me. I'm thankful for that
![Blox Fruits Dragon Rework Update [Full Stream]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/EqDAp8udhm0/mqdefault.jpg)
Camera lust can become so distracting.
that is a beautiful summary of this whole topic.
deep.
Brendan Goss I absolutely agree. It's easy to be blinded by the wonders of technology and forget about the story. I have had to invest in new cameras specifically because I've been trying to get more into videography as a business, but I have done that so I can pay for college and actually have something of a budget for my passion work, so it balances out. If someone wants to exclusively focus on narrative and documentary filmmaking, though, you don't need to invest so heavily in technology. Invest in your story, because in the end, that should matter more to you, otherwise, you're in the wrong profession entirely.
Brendan Goss - It's also against the 10 Commandments of Filmmaking. "To even look upon a camera with lust is to commit adultery with it in your heart." - Tripod 3:17
Elite Lens Films Perfect lol.
*20 years later* "Why I *Still* Won't Buy a New Camera"
*40 years later* "Why I *STILL* Won't Buy a New Camera"
*60 years later* "Why I Used Only One Camera My Entire Life"
hahahaha actually tho
Elite Lens Films Lol
Elite Lens Films lol
70 years later "I saved a bunch of money by not buy a new camera"
*80 years later*: "Why I never once used a camera on a shoot."
Honestly, every time I look at my camera and want to upgrade, I just watch Simon's videos and I instantly feel better about my gear. Also, nice T-Shirts, definitely getting one soon.
Same with me
NoSarcasm same with me
Seems like he's posting these as soon as I'm almost going to upgrade my reason. And then I watch the video and feel bad for choosing a new camera...sigh
NoSarcasm same here with me 70d
Graphicsc yeah i did it like 4 times. But now idk why in 2017 i want to upgrade my 70D to a GH4
I'm still using my 4 years 600d, and my client is always satisfied because they don't know the different :)
Trimakasih tutorial sony vegas, sy bljar 6 thn yg lalu 🙏
I like how you explain like you are not in a rush.....every word is crisp. Great job
"So I can keep making more videos about not buying a new camera"
hahaha
He should make a video on getting his parents to buy him a new camera ;)
That there was fun-ee!
The expenses don't stop at that one camera either, you'll end up spending money for all the bits and bobs that go with the camera too. E.g. wanna shoot high bitrate 4K? You'll need a computer that can edit and grade 4K etc.
TLDR: dont get a mac :p
sure... but you need a pc to cut 1k also... no difference
Great mindset to have as a creative. Very inspiring!
Keep the good work with your t3i. I hope you don't change it. Its so important to show how the gear is not that important.
I was kind of unhappy with my t5i, then I started watching your videos and learned that my camera is awesome, I just needed better light and color grading.
I was almost sucked at this black hole of upgrading the gear expecting it to solve the problem of better content/quality/etc.
The diminishing returns graph nails it!
someone just get him a new camera
I can see Sony sending one.
I agree. Lok from Digital Rev (not anymore) got a new camera from sony, with only 70k subscribers. i thing simon deserves one as well.
bro just understand where he's coming from. like simon says you dont need a really expensive camera to make videos. chill out and you may not agree with simon but at least respect his views
www.gofundme.com/dslrguidecamera
Nick. Do you know Simon personally? How are you going to make sure either the funds or the camera will reach him?
I always stop by and come here every single time I want to buy a new camera.. ughh but I save money
Big Dan ASMR Save and buy a new camera. It will pay itself off, and will be a great investment to improve your filmmaking prospects.
The t3i is horrendously outdated. It's fantastic to learn with but this day and age it's just becoming irrelevant. Sure, it gets a good image but clients will want slow motion and 4k and high dynamic range and better low light. Check out Sony's lower end mirrorless cameras a6000, a6300, a6500. They're far superior than canon's rebel line and offer so much more.
Hayden G oh yeah I don't have a t3i I have a t5i to learn on. I've just been focusing on lenses.
as much as i love seeing a crisp, clean 4K HDR image, i have a 4K HDR TV and lack of support from mainstream media at the moment as well as on demand services such as Netflix and prime video doesn't justify the added cost of the TV. until more services start supporting 4K and HDR then it may just become a fad that just fades away in a similar way to 3D. and thats quite sad because it looks amazing when done right
4k cant fade away because its not a gimmick unlike 3D. its just advancement of product. That's like saying 1080p and 720p were just fads of the time.
I have a different attitude: Gear isn't the most important thing in making a movie but it definitely does help in making it better. Ultimately it's all about lighting, lenses and the person behind it tbh
that's fair - the real question is what percentage of your 'filmmaking spending' do you think should go to equipment?
DSLRguide I would say if you can afford it and pay it off and make money off it I'm fine with buying good gear. Obviously not everyone is gonna need a RED or Alexa for everything but everyone has different needs
It's not really about if you can afford it. It's about what you can't afford if you use you money on an expensive cameras.
There's more important things, like acting, color grading, storytelling, screen writing, music, etc....
JJSculpting like I mentioned it's different for everyone. one person could be able to buy a camera like the a7s ii and pay it off instantly others couldnt.
But you would still have less money to create the everything else you project needs, because you have used a big percentage on the camera.
Yes, if you have a budget 500.000 dollars it makes sense, because the camera would be a small percentage. If not, i think there's more important stuff to spend you money on.
I love this guy
Best RUclips channel related to filmmaking. awesome bro.
most indie filmmakers arent buying cameras for shoots. they are renting them
I agree with what you're saying to an extent, but I also think you're setting up some false dichotomies as well. $300 Camera vs $3000 Camera. But there are plenty of cameras in between that would be a huge increase in image quality for not much more money than what you spent on your t3i, like the Panasonic G7 for example. Spending all your time learning about cameras instead of learning about filmmaking craft. Can't you do both? Are they mutually exclusive?
Can you build a house with just a cheap hammer and hand saw? Sure, but why would you want to other than to prove a point? Better tools will make the job faster, easier and more precise. Buying a nicer camera won't make you a better filmmaker, but becoming a professional filmmaker means that your tools eventually need to match the level of your craft.
Very well summed up! I feel like it is kind of ignorant to neglect this fact.
No! Stop! Please! You're making me change my mind! I don't want to spend more money! But look it's so shiny!! But I don't need it!! Yes you do, buy it!!!Ahhhhhh
Of cause you can do both when it comes to focusing on cameras and filmmaking but I guess quality trumps quantity.
I agree 100%... There comes a point where one can be an amateur or cross the bridge to become a professional. A professional in any arena in life comes with professional tools. I have worked on large projects and I always make sure my teams have the right tools for the work and it makes a huge difference. You can save money on the front end, but it always costs you on the back end and can significantly impact delivery... besides clients have certain expectations and you need to meet those expectations if you want bigger and better work.
IMO, and I think Simon would agree, it's not about the money. If you limit yourself by what camera you use, it forces you to actually BE a better filmmaker, not just seem like a better filmmaker. For example: Sure, Panasonic G7 can shoot 4k. Why not buy that? Only a few hundred dollars more than the T3i, right? Well 4k is going to allow you to get better low light shots, and better resolution, and even punch in an entire 100% of ur frame if you wanted to. However, having all of those things can make you lazy. You can get better low light with 4k, so why setup a light plot? You can just use the light available, because you'll be able to get a clean shot anyway now that your low light is just a bit better. Don't bother taking the time to think about how you can make the shot more interesting with light, because you can now get the shot you want without lighting gear. Better resolution? The shot will look great anyway cuz it's in 4k, why do I have to think about composition and lighting and all of the other things that makes a film so great? Don't have a lens with a long enough focal length? Whatever. Just shoot in 4k and punch in. These are clearly all extreme examples but definitely possible. Having a good camera can make you lazy if your creative mind isn't working properly. Being able to shoot at 120fps can mess with your head. ME for example. I do a lot of church video. It's super easy for me to just shoot at 120fps and slow it down to make it look cinematic, instead of actually thinking about how I can make my shots look more cinematic. Everything looks cinematic in slow motion. But it doesn't really require any effort. All I'm saying is, having a camera that can do the work for you is sometimes dangerous when you have a tough situation that your camera can fix. Rather than doing the work to fix it and putting in the time to solve the problem, you just crank the ISO or shoot in slow motion or shoot in 4k or whatever the camera can do that will solve your problem. I'm highly considering going back to a T3i for all my serious shoots because I keep finding that my videos have gotten worse since I got an a6500. Probably because I bought it to fix the problems I was having, rather than using as a tool to my already refined craft.
Still using my 8+ year old GH2 for daily content. Am only considering a new camera for stabilization, slow mo, and that my audio input is finally dying.
There are a lot of voices who say not to get caught up in camera list - but not many who practice what they preach. Kudos to you on making such unbelievably great content! What a great example and inspiration.
its really really satisfying when you do wait for your skills to truly catch up with your gear. When you buy a new piece of equipment, not because its cool or you want it (though it is perfectly ok to just want cool stuff because its cool), but because i really will help you or allow you do do new things. Its a great feeling, and the camera tends to sit on the shelf a lot less often then when you buy something out of GAS.
Wonderful message Simon, I couldn't agree more. (I'll get a t-shirt)
Do you have a video about doing those charts, arrows, texts, etc?
thanks for the encouragement & support, honestly I appreciate it hugely. I explain the process in this video: ruclips.net/video/2Aqk8OaIyXg/видео.html
I kinda disagree too. I mean, upgrading to a A7s or even mk2 isnt THAT expensiv when you use ist for years (like your t3i) and the benefits that you get out of will def help your filmmaking. And i am not just talking about resolution. I think about things like filming in log, (real) slowmotion ability, focus peaking, zebra, and so on. And even just 1080p looks 10 times sharper on the a7s vs t3i.
But i mean if you really want to, go for it. Not trying to be mean, just my thoughts about it
Hark Meinrich agreed
I Agree with most of your points, but there is an oversight in this side of the argument, let me explain my opinion:
1) Budgeting doesn't work that way, there's a reason it's called an investment, like the way your t3i is used for years, if I buy a A7S II today for $3000 and use it to shoot 100 project over the course of next 4 years, it's like 30 bucks per project
2) Content Quality isn't determined by Pixel Resolution is a GREAT MENTALITY, I can't deny that, but what if in the coming years 4K master become the new de-facto if you want a Home Video, or even Theatrical Release, you wouldn't be able to do that with a t3i (even now, What If you need to shoot at 120 fps because 60 fps just isn't slow enough, a t3i can't do that), and this leads to the third point
3) Demand, If Consumer wants 4K, it will get adopted widely, If they wanted HDR, It will get adopted, if something gets widely adopted by consumer, it becomes standard. Camera and A/V Manufacturers will push these standards, there will be a point in the future when producers will demand 4K or HDR if you want to get the budget, and you will need that budget if you want to make a movie beyond indie (you can't spend time and energy focusing 100% on creating films if you don't have money to eat, you need an income to buy a new camera too, and when it become your full time profession, you need to realize and oblige what the standard is) we see this time and time with Stereo, Surround, FHD, (Even IMAX and Atmos in case of theater screens) and now 4K/HDR
4) Your Point that I agree is don't get in the hype, if you're asking "do i really need this new fancy-ass RED Camera everyone is getting" or "maybe i should get this camera, everyone said it's great, and it will maybe improve my work" than you don't need it, spend anywhere else, but if you find yourself in need for those extra resolution, RAW Shooting capability, ability to shoot with barely any light (A7S II is popular for a reason) or any other feature those thousand dollar cameras have, don't feel guilty buying a new camera
5) As Indie Creators, It's easy to say "spend more time on the story", in high level production, other people do these kind of "what camera to use" for the director, there are separate camera directors and operators, The Director do occasionally discuss this, as he/she will always takes place in most decision making, but in fact, GEAR wouldn't determine the content, A Better Gear doesn't make you more lazy in creating and kill your skill, and an outdated gear wouldn't end your career as a filmmaker, but there is need for a balance between these "creative hermits" and "consumerist businessman" mentality if you want to survive, and if you don't want to, just let others take care of those stuff for you, just don't actively resist it from your hands like a hot potato
In The End I don't want to undermine any of your point, especially in the indie community, emphasizing content over gear is important, because we're the ones who can easily get deceived by these hype marketings, but Hollywood don't use Arri Alexas for bragging rights or just because they can, it's because they need it. I had a coffee with my old film teacher a few months ago, in his class he always says things similar to what you said in this video, but near our graduation he said to us:
"When you leave this class the situation is different, when you need a new camera, don't blame that you can't cover your gear's shortcoming with your skills, at that time it's you skill and level in film making that has outgrown your camera, just like when you move from your smartphone camera to your first DSLR two years ago at the start of the class"
Tbh I have no idea of cameres or whatsoever but your voice and the way you edit your videos is so calming it's amazing. I could listen to you for hours!
I have been in the business for 22 years, what you are saying is very wise. You are are very talented and you will very shortly be blessed with the budgets that will allow for you to have the cameras of your dreams, mark my word. Your current focus is so clean and your spirit is right, your talent shows it. You are so right about your view on consumerism. I have a C100, a C300, a xf300, a 6d, a5DMKII, a 50D, a 40D and awhole lot of other stuff and I want a C700 and a C300MKII and don't even have a job lined up for it. You have helped me off the roof, Thank you . . .
*he is soo talented my font bolded*
Hhhhhhhhhhhhhh omg loool u made me pisse. On myself
lol! :D
hhhhh what are u doing here
i have learnt so much from you simon but it's about time you make a upgrade. i saw the frustration in you "not as simple as 'follow your dreams' " video and i can completely relate to that but the scale of a project you will be working requires more than T3i. i don't mean to say t3i does not shoot well but there are so many cameras out there which will improve your quality by substantial amount without breaking your bank. please buy something like Gh4 and sigma 17-35 lens, or a6500 and check the quality for yourself and see the difference. you will have alot less to work on post processing. i hope the best for you simon. cheers
i have a GH4 and it's overrated. useful, but overrated.
really? i been using t3i for last 3 years and thinking to upgrade and gh4 seems to have great reviews on sites. To know pros and cons from owner itself would be great. please let me know you experience Haldered, Thank you!
Moving from a T3i to a A6300 changed everything for me, i was ready to quit until i got the new camera.
I just wish the 4K performance would be better... 30 FPS and crop. No 60 FPS 4K. And 1080p is full of noise at night video and @120 FPS the bitrate is too low. The camera comes with a lot of disadvantages hence the cost.
P3rform3rDesign I understand what you are saying but the advantages for me personally, far outweigh the disadvantages. I only shoot In 24fps so I can't really comment on the other frame rates.
one of the rules for shooting at night....don't shoot at night...
Dan O'Brien Get the a7sii
it depends on what you shoot , if you make money from videos , then you need to keep up and expand , if you are a casual shooter who focuses mostly on an art piece , then the existing system is good enough . ive had the same experience , shot with my nikon d5200 and it was horrible , now i shifted for a G7 and its a whole new experience
I've been watching a lot of your videos this morning, and I am really impressed with how wise, practical, and down-to-earth you are. That can be hard to find in this industry, and its really encouraging. Thank you, and keep up the good work.
Ok. You really got me. I've been wrecking my time doing insane amounts of research on cameras. Canon 77D, 80D, a7s mark 2, G85, GH5... It's a crazy list and when I do lock on to one camera that I think I like, I take another look at my 7D and am just not convinced about whether I should spend my money on another camera for video
-accidently brakes camera-
yeah never mind
I would genuinely buy a second hand T3i haha
Nstar 😂😂😂😂😂😂
DSLRguide lol
DSLRguide lol
Lmao hahaha wow Mr Cade
Only man I know who can make a justified argument on still using the T3i. As I said before, you're the man.
I love my 600d
That's not old (yet)
600D is the t3i!
Trampathon Same here.
600D is awesome!
(canon is slow to innovate, we still haven created proper 4k DSLR yet)
GAMINGFOREXPERTS The 1DX MK2 can do 4k I think... but that doesn't really count because in 2017 you shouldn't have to spend over £4000 to get 4k video.
GAMINGFOREXPERTS 5d mark IV and 1DX mkII
I also love that someone as awesome and talented as you is around to share my journey with this cam !
i think you made a great point. The same principle applies to music production for example. When you stick with normal prices mic's and music production software, its kind of about you building up the skill to make these limited samples sound good. if you just go for the most expensive sample packs right away, you will never learn how to mix/eq/compress cheaper sounds to sound real good. Missing out on a lot of learning possibilities ...
Conterpoint: owning a high end camera can get you gigs. I would argue that you should consider camera equipment a PR and marketing expense and not a production equipment expense. Having a Canon c300 is expensive, but what if owning a $10,000 camera gets you one $10,000 gig you wouldn't have gotten without it?
I'd add that most filmmakers are trying to get clients, where as "Gone Girl" is trying to get tickets. Small commercial or indie filmmakers sell themselves based on clout and capabilities where as Hollywood movies sell themselves on PR campaigns. You gotta switch the money buckets around, I think it's apples to oranges.
I would agree with this as well. Nothing better than showing up for a shoot with equipment that really gives off the professional vibe. And being able to pitch that you have professional equipment as well to get that gig. Not gonna show up to film a wedding with a g7x lol
I've never really thought of it like that... Whether a client 'practically' needs 4K or not is irrelevant, if you have the gear that's capable it's a great thing to tell them and could certainly be a pull factor between you and a competitor....
A totally valid point, a T3i is fine for vlogging and art, but you won't get hired to shoot pro level footage.
Good point Kyle! A professional appearance is important. On the other hand getting gigs is also about having connections and if the people know what you are capable of doing they don't care that much about your equipment. For me as a composer the expensive stuff doesn't help a lot in that matter, it's all hidden ;)
I totally disagree! You can't use a $10,000 camera with a $100 tripod, $200 lens, etc...right? I've found that before you know it, expensive pieces of gear exponentially grow in price once you realize that all of your gear should be at a similar level of quality.
t3i squad!
600d
This video really needed update :D Do clients ask a lot for 4k videos?
BTW: Congrats on half million subs ;)
i've never had a client / sponsor ask for 4K, or care about which camera I used. but in the high-end commercial industry they definitely would care. that's why everyone rents the big cameras for those. and thanks!
well... maybe it is time you had one :)
JoeAnim IDN. if the footage looks dull color grade it. as far ISO im not sure you want to go any higher than 400 anyway.
yeah, man. You are perfectly right. I spend a lot of time searching "golden tools", but always procrastinate when I need 2 or 3 hours to write a good scenario. Your advice it's very powerful thing for beginners. Thanks a lot
Right on simon. You know what id like to see. You take some footage and walk us through loading it into your editing program, showing us the settings you use in your program, color correcting, etc... And then finally rendering it. I mean maybe you could just make an episode of everything you went through to make that episode. I must say i really like your channel, your shared wisdom, honesty and professionalism.
Great message dude! I'm sticking with my 70D for a while and this was VERY validating.
How do you get such a clean image out of the T3i? I have a T5i, and my footage is usually pretty soft and compression artifacts appear with minimal grading. It's 1080p but looks like upscaled 720p. I think it's the compression.
I don't do anything fancy with compression, just standard H.264. For me, my footage looks soft & artifact-y when my footage is underexposed, or just doesn't have good lighting / enough light. If I were you, i'd focus on practicing lighting, and see what happens.
So, since your work is pretty dark in terms of color grading, do you simply expose properly (or perhaps over expose a bit to abuse the way h.264 compression works) and then bring it back down in post?
Just upload the footage to RUclips - it covers up all the compression artifacts nicely... with more compression.
HOW TO GET CLEAN SMOOTH FOOTAGE : Make sure if your doing any kind of grading after, that first you shoot in the correct exposure and shutter settings, and 2nd make sure you are export with a high Bitrate preferably a variable bitrate, and make sure to overkill the bitrate if uploading to youtube ...OVERKILL IT since they cut anything you upload in half, right off the bat
don't heavily grade, that's the trick. get some lights, or film outside
They don't buy 4 RED's they rented it ...
You are 100% right on this. There is no need to buy the latest and greatest if your work is already coming out solid.
as an actor this is so refreshing to hear. so many filmakers try to get proffessionals for next to nothing. probably down to what you say about equipment. its awesome you obviously value actors more. :)
Yeah but RED cameras looks so *COOL!*
good point, I hadn't thought of that. maybe I will upgrade ;)
Yeah gotta rock that carbon fibre look ;) xD
another pretentious upgrade that nobody needs...
The carbon fiber upgrade isn't just the body material, it also upgrades the processor which allows higher frame rates and higher data rates. It also makes the body lighter for gimbals and 3D rigs. Not necessary but if you're shooting with a multi million dollar budget, it's a good upgrade.
Uh...they don't buy cameras for movies. They rent all the equipment.
Actium Films they do buy cameras at times
Most of the time, camera equipment is rented because the rental house manages repairs and upgrades. Sometimes they are purchases in the cases that buying a camera would be most cost effective than renting. For example The Hobbit required 48 Red Epic-X cameras since each rig needed 2 cameras for 3D and there were 12 rigs (cranes, steadicam, mancam, etc), plus 12 rigs for second unit. The rental cost would be way too much since they shot for I believe 266 days and an Epic-X at the time was probably 800-1200 a day.
Only if you are Lubezki
Exactly.
All big studios buy their own equipment, they never rent a fucking thing.
Only smaller studios rent, some cameras like those 70mm can only be rented so you have no choice, Tarantino rented his 70mm panavision.
You are definitely right in most your points, but it is very rare to find a movie that buys its cameras, renting is the way to go. But buying a new camera lets say a Red or Arri, Arri is definitely better than Red, will get you more work because clients want there product to look good and if they know you own a Red or Arri they will hire you.
sure, so in that case it'd be even less than 0.6% right? as for the Red / Arri debate, I'm not the best person to talk to about that
So you basically say: It doesn't matter if you shoot good stuff as long as you own a RED (aka. lots of money) Everyone wants to hire you with an expensive camera. Thats a stupid statement.
Don't get me wrong, if you shoot good stuff and the right people see it its gonna lead you somewhere good (more jobs connections ect.) I should have stated it a little different, everyone has to start somewhere, I started with a t3i, now I use Arri's. But from all the people I know who personally own Reds and Arri's clients are able to look up there financials and see what they have a lease on or have had a lease on and see they leased an Arri or Red and because of that they have a higher chance of being hired. But where I come from (which is not owning a cinema camera) you can still get good jobs and get hired no matter what you have.
I agree with for the most part. I 100% believe that the story is more important than any camera's technology could ever be, but if you really really need a certain feature of a camera, then you can pull the trigger and invest. Say I really wanted a camera for its FPS. A camera for shooting concerts and one that could go super slo-mo, would that be a good investment?
I have had a t3i for 4 years and it still is an excellent camera. You did a great job reasoning out the pros and cons of buying anything including a camera. You have wisdom beyond your years. Good job!
Damn! I guess I couldn't be more in line with the way you think! I've been using the 60D for 6years and I don't see myself getting a new camera anytime soon! Yes, I got microphones, lights, desktop cpu for faster editing, but still, 60D gets the job done!
Indeed! 60D it's a great machine! And together with ML or external monitor with peaking is a great tool for most of the work a freelancer will do
lumavisualexperience i got a 60d myself. And if i get more than 3-4 video-deals the upcoming year im definitely upgrading. Only beeing able to shoot 30fps is maddening. And if you don't have control over the light the quality can really take a hit
I'm still using 60D. Pun intended.
I had the same opinion for quite a while. I shot with the t4i for a couple years and loved it. As people around started upgrading to the GH4 and A7s I kept with the "Your skill is what makes your film great" mentality, which I still agree with.. But then I finally decided to sell the t4i for $600 and bought a G85 for $850 and spent $300 on a great lens. So I really only had to spend $550 to upgrade to a camera that would only showcase my skill even more. Plus the ability to shoot in 4k, shoot in slow motion, in body stabilization and so much more was so so worth the investment. So I agree that your skill is what makes your film great, but why insist on not upgrading when it really doesn't cost that much? Anyway, just my thoughts. You're a great filmmaker and I would love to see your stuff be complimented by great equipment.
Stonewall Johnson I think it's more of a humility thing. I think he feels he can do better. And he can. Check out canon france's official t3i film that was made to showcase the camera's ability. The most filmic I've seen a t3i look.
Let me start by saying, I think you're an incredibly insightful and thoughtful young filmmaker. I have been watching your content for the past year and I would be lying if I said I haven't learned anything from you. The way you logically and analytically express your views/ opinions is one of your greatest assets. Unfortunately, in this video though your logic failed me. Your David Fincher - Gone Girl example was completely irrelevant. As I'm sure you're aware, essentially all professional projects these days are shot primarily on ARRI, RED or film. Let's pull some figures out of the air here. If Fincher decided to shoot on ARRI, the camera and lens production cost would have maybe been 1 million dollars (1.6% of the total budget). If it was 35mm film it may have been over 1 million (maybe 1.9%). There are no other options. This is the case in all Hollywood productions. This doesn't mean that indie filmmakers should aim for similar figures. The comparison simply doesn't translate. I'm not saying you should get caught up in new camera hype and buy a new one every year. Rather, you should be smart with your investments and get the best quality gear in your reach. We look to Hollywood to learn the craft, to learn their practices. But we shouldn't blow our situation out of proportion and compare it to theirs. We shouldn't always strive to replicate Hollywood's decisions. For example: I don't feel the need to make a superhero film just because studios currently back that type of genre. In the same way, I don't feel the need to only use a low range DSLR just because it makes my financial decisions (budgets) proportional to Hollywoods'. And let's be honest - 8-bit H.264 T3i footage has its limits.
No one is forcing you to buy a new camera. But, given your financial situation (500000 subscribers, products/ merchandise for sale and sponsorships) the only reason you're still using this T3i is pride - that you think you're good enough to produce quality content without expensive gear (which no one argues with btw). However, this shouldn't involve you refusing to upgrade cameras on the grounds of some ridiculous comparison. Seek any self-justification you want, but deep down surely you know you can reach for more.
cientos de peliculas estrenadas en el cine estan hechas con 7d canon y t3i canon. Eso quiere decir que se puede estrenar una pelicula de bajo presupuesto con una dslr y ganar dinero con ello.
Lol I know. Once I got started I kinda realised that I had a lot to say.
Thanks for taking the time to read it though, I appreciate it.
Absolutely spot on.
I completely agree with you.
Boston868 yeah.... new cameras suck.... they suck hard...
It's not the brush that creates the painting it's the artist, hat's off to you Simon keep up the great work bro!!
Thank you! You're a rebel and that's a great quality to have as a filmmaker! Love how you think!
The Question is: which Camera did you use to record this video, when you showed us your camera in the video? :)
That's actually a good point haha :D
he has 2 of the same cams
4TEXXT i think he only uses his t3i with his films but not for youtube videos im not quite sure.
-plot twist: he as TWO canon t3i lmao-
Jorden Young okay, good to know thank you 😄
He uses the G4
makes a lot of sense, surprised you did not mention lighting or post production as the basic area to improve image before upgrading your camera body or your lens. i believe the thing that cost not much, does not take long to add but that bring a lot to the emotional impact of the movie is finding a good music. sure you can find elevator music for free that will fill the void but a really compelling music will turn a "ok" movie into a "great" movie.
just go and buy an a6500 and use and adapter and continue to use ur canon lenses. u will be blown away by the 4k quality and the camera is so cheap considering the pro image quality you get
yeah, there's only one thing i think is left out in this video: when you divide the cost of the camera in the total film budget, you should consider that you don't buy a new camera for every film. so if you shoot 5 movies you could divide the cost of a 6300 around those. yet this vid does make me feel better about owning a T6 :,v
Sam D'Cruz This. You can also adapt old m42 lenses, which are mega cheap and amazing for video; the focus peaking is also really useful here.
Every video of your channel makes me redefine the way I’m thinking as a filmmaker. Because you’re truly right
I find that the best time to buy now is on the production run out when the price often halves so you can get pretty good quality for an excellent price. You're right though when you say focus on craft makes the biggest difference.
For those who disagree with him, Simon's films, attitude and skills probably surpass yours by miles. That's why he's thriving as a youtuber and filmmaker, while you are here mumbling BS trying to justify the money you dumped on your expensive camera (if you even make films at all).
Bro, why dont you start a podcast? You have an easy-to-listen-to voice.
Finally. Cade Swag to rock when I leave my cave to get sunlight.
Hey, man. Hope you get better soon. ;)
lol thx mate.
I still use my 550D today. Flat picture profile, quality lenses and good lighting will do wonders!
I attempted to leave a comment on another of your videos but could not. Maybe it was too long. I just want to tell you that I am pushing 80 years old and just started into videography. I find you speak clearly, concise and pass on information that is relevant. I subscribed to your channel. Thank you.
I agree with simon. he's exactly right. staying with your camera will only make you better at film making, having you use all of your resources to the max. then , when you can't do anything else to optimize your films, you get a new camera. this increases your creativity and resourcefulness. a camera is only a tool, not your savior. if you don't have the necessary skills to film a good film, but you have a nice camera, your finished product will plainly be a piece of shiny crap. period.
hahaha thats true. and you can see those shity films/video's here on youtube. So many people buy those expensive camera but don't know how to use them and make those crapy videos. just get to know the camera you have and take the best out of it. in the end if you know your stuff u can always make great films
Kadmiel Mccrory Batman V Superman is a prime example
Nave Art Look at canon France's official t3i short film. I have yet to see anybody get that look out of the t3i.
What did you shoot this video on, since you're holding your T3i in your hand?
I have two DSLRs, both are Canon T3i
hahhah :D , Well having two of the same is different argument for not upgrading.Just kidding... Actually you are right but buying new gear is great experience which by itself is satisfying.The main difference is when you know that buying gear is based on emotional decision more than rational.
@@DSLRguide When you're bringing sons and find out those are twins
I disagree with the mathematics at the start. You don't buy a camera on this level for just one single production. Also - working for some clientele, there are different needs with this 4K emerging world and broadcast.
that is a fair point. the hollywood movies usually rent too, so their percentage would be less than 0.6% too. I should have worded it "the cameras they are using are worth 50,000 " and "indie filmmakers use cameras that are worth 3000"
Thanks for replying. I strongly admire the approach for not having too much of a dependency upon the equipment and I personally own an a7s and a 600D both of which I use equal amounts depending on the circumstances and requirements of the project.
Incredible mate!!! I needed to hear that. I'm so focused that I need a drone to make my videos much better. That I forgot my style of filming and tell stories has nothing to do with that. Thank you so much for this video.
Love and respect your opinion man! Keep creating A grade, thought provoking content. That's what we love!
Improving your gear allow you to improve the story more than you think. Slow motions can help the story, my 6D can't shoot slow motion neither does your T3i unless you go for interpolation which works in very specific ways only. Color grading also helps the story and the overall feeling. Shooting on a camera that shoots 10bits or raw will bring you a world of difference. having an internal stabilisation system prevent you from having too much gears to carry around and also helps the visual feeling of the shoots. Seeing what you are producing, I understand that you wouldn't. This is not the case of everyone, and certainly not my case and what I've learned working in various companies in many years. What your stating mostly apply to your self only. Although you are right on one thing: Having a better camera doesn't make the story getting better. But buying a better camera doesn't mean you are not focused on the story as well.
But these cameras shot real 60fps
That can be interpreted to 24fps (equals to 40% of speed)
Or what do you mean by real slow motions? I'm not very experienced at this and i wanna really know bro
MsMoeb I mean this question genuinely... Could one shoot 90% of the shots on the cheaper camera and then rent a higher end camera for the day for slow mo shots? If this was done on 10 projects how would the math unfold? Would the cost be about the same or much cheaper for one or the other?
You don't want to do that lol. The drop in quality from the slow motion shots of an a7s ii for example to the normal shots of a t3i would be extremely noticeable and not match the rest of your project whatsoever.
Having features is nice, but not absolutely necessary. His point is that it's better to use what you already have than to perpetually chase new shiny stuff because you get new shiny features. Technically a T3i can shoot slow motion if you use 720p and a higher frame rate than your project's normal frame rate; I have done this many times by shooting at 60p for a 24p production. 10-bit color, RAW, and log formats are somewhat overrated and add significantly to storage requirements and editing/render time and require extra skills; the rule with 8-bit cameras is to get it as right as possible in-camera and avoid the "flat" and CineStyle junk that might be good on 10-bit cameras but just ruin the footage on cheaper ones.
MsMoeb have you seen the lighting and grip setups used with those "better cameras"? They go more in-depth than anyone with a DSLR these days.
Watching this video makes me happy that I bought my Nikon d750 for both stills and Video. I'm a hybrid user!
I'd be happy to have a d750 over my d5300
@@stevengonz And me a 5300 over my 3300...
Story is king. everything else is subservient to the story. I think you proved this last time by making a neat film with a really cheap camera. I don't care what "K" you shoot in if your story sucks, you suck! Good stuff Simon. You never disappoint.
Haha yep. But it takes less talent to buy something rather than create something.
The most truthful video yet - the manufacturers will hate you but your rationale is rock solid!
This video has helped me more to decide what camera to buy than all of the videos about cool cameras and all the features the new cameras have that every manufacturer wants you to believe that you need
Brilliant thinking in this one, I completely agree! Same ideas apply with music equipment too I've found!
for you no need to buy a new camera at least this year, because canon is slow to add new features. We can illustrate that by comparing your camera and the latest models in Canon DSLR line.
MySamaa too much attention on what the camera does and not how the camera does it.
Good point. No need to upgrade to a *Canon* camera. If Canon ever puts 4K and a decent codec in a DSLR for under $2K... that will be a proud moment for them... finally joining the 2010's. LOL
"So, mate, the other day over lunch I told Spielberg about my CONTROVERSIAL decision to keep shooting in 720i..."
Great message, I'm a photographer with a nikon D750 and willing to do film, but I was stuck with not having the right camera, I'm going to get the best of it! and as someone said, I will return to this video again and again, thxs!
Incredible life lesson - i just bought a new camera and will start my first steps in filming - i will invest in people from now on - thanks !
Because you won't be able to make "Why I wont buy a new camera" videos anymore.
There is a very noticeable whistle that happens constantly in your videos.
Someone buy this man a new camera, jesus
iOS Tutorials 😂😂😂
I suggest you do it. It's your idea after all.
hahahahahaha. i swear i agree with you. it is really getting out of hand.
I started looking into new cameras today and then I remembered this video. A great reminder I don't need a new one.
Congratulations that you've found this amount of wisdom at this age and don't need to waste time. There is another aspect to what you're saying that holds true for most hobbyist or semiprofessional people who do things like movies besides day jobs: they have money to invest in cameras. But they have no time to invest into learning storytelling, learning framing, learning to deal with actors, getting the best set designer, learning about light etc. I also keep my t3i, btw :D
turned my screen to give thumbs up just to find out I already did it
damn it, did it again :'D
I bought an A7sii and a Ursa Mini 4.6k. Both of them were paid off in 2 1/2 months of freelancing.
Seriously, it's not that hard to upgrade. You make it sound like people should be shamed for upgrading.
Why not enjoy a higher bit rate, pro res, advanced color grading, high frame rates etc. Why don't you like any of that?
agree , if the camera budget is 10% of what you earn for a year , or if you can dish it out to make more money then you can get it . but i think that dslr guide was born with the Rebel T series so it might stay that way as there are shooters who still have a small budget or old equipment out there . if he goes for a blackmagic ursa or c100 then the sole purpose of teaching will be lost and we might see a film riot style channel (but i seriously do think that he needs to upgrade )
Are you still using this same one?
Even though my parents had bought themselves a high end camera for a couple hundred euros, for my best project ever I chose a decade (or more) old small 720p camera. It still made me more proud than ever about my video. I can confirm it's the knowledge (which I have acquired through your channel) that makes the film a film and not just a home recording.
Very well put young man. Wisdom has dawned upon you at an early age. You have a great future ahead. All the very best. Thank you for taking the time to put this excellent presentation on RUclips.
Just get a new camera Lol. You're being limited by what your t3i can do man. I don't care if you're trying to prove a point that gear doesn't matter, but in the long run you're only holding yourself and your content back. With your talent, your videos could look 100x better with a newer camera. I suggest getting a full frame camera like the Canon 5d mkIV or a Sony A7S ii. In my opinion, gear does matter
and you are...? lol
I'm someone telling him that he has too much talent to be held back by an outdated t3i. Got a problem with that?
Kaipo Fitisemanu I agree. A new camera will pay itself off quickly; in fact his whole argument is flawed. Buying new technology will expand his prospects and make him more hireable
I feel what he's trying to prove or show is that using an entry level camera over a pro one , increases and hones your skills and teaches you a lot more things.
Gnarly Rascal Buying an entry level camera won't 'teach you more things' - a beginner just wouldn't be able to utilize the features of a professional camera enough to justify spending the money. However, many people *know* why they need certain new features; there are many reasons to invest in new gear, that are totally disregarded in this video.
Good for you! as I said one your first video on why..you are wise beyond your years.
20th Century Fox did not purchase these camera packages. They rented them.
you're right. so they spent an even smaller percentage of their budget on cameras:)
You're a hero mate. This video of yours (and the previous one) has saved me so much money, killing my craving for new gear.
Here in Brazil isn't a matter os choice, but an imposition. In a place where the cameras are extremely expensive (a A7SII body costs around 14 minimum salaries haha), the high tech cameras are only available for TV, high level cinema and few commercial producers... And richs, of course. Your philosophy guides me through an alternative way and the results drives all this people crazy. Thanks Simon.
there is a huge difference between smart with your budget and being cheap.. and using outdated gear when you have said yourself that it would improve your videos a lot, is just dumb. I get the angle your saying be well rounded etc fix your other skills before spending more on gear etc..but gear should also never limit you or hinder your project. so if better gear exist and would make other things easier for you, then it's clearly worth the investment. especially with a 6 yr old camera
but a 600d is not outdated?? it's digital, it's 1080p, it has interchangeable lenses... what more do you want??
There's certain kind of hipsterism/snobbyness with not upgrading when it's time to upgrade. GH5 might be expensive, but what about G85? This video is soft btw, I hope it's intentional? If not, it really is time to upgrade to something better.
But how to tell when it's time to upgrade?
Next video : Why I still STILL won't buy a new camera :D
Tech with T.M.K 😂
Some great points, I like the shirt & graph too. This can apply to many things. There comes a time when the camera is weakest link but perhaps not as soon as we may think.
This video needs to be watched by more indy filmmakers. We love to get caught up in the camera hustle. I kept my T2i for 5 years after I bought it, then my BMPCC for 2 years, now I have a GH4 which I think I will hang on to for quite some time. The in-camera slow motion is my favorite part of having this camera. Though I can achieve some of the same crispy goodness with my old T2i, I honestly can't compare the 2. The GH4 is the better piece of equipment at the end of the day (to me), BUT, the creation process of using the T2i challenged me. I'm thankful for that