I'm an 80 year old amateur photographer who has thoroughly enjoyed and learned a great deal from your videos over the last ten years. Keep up the good work.
It is so hard to find things now on youtube because they just push junk and shorts. Even videos that I know exist I can't find without doing a search via a search engine because they never come up in a youtube search.
It's less yt and more with the general public. We like to say corporations are greedy but individuals are worse. If some person is offered $$$ to push a product they'll do it regardless of what it is. Those people are the ones flooding yt with terrible videos like AI generated readings off of someone's website. Top 10 list of random stuff with zero facts, conspiracy knuckleheads and sensational news. Let's also not shy away from us, who can't even read more than 3 sentences at a time or spend more than a minute to watch a video
That's true. I've been watching a Hungarian debate show from classic TV here on RUclips for a year now. As it's released once a week I used to get it in my feed as soon as it was published. Now I can't find it even if I search for it. I ALWAYS need to use the filters and rank the videos by most recent to by able to find something that RUclips used to just recommend me right in my feed. They know I want to watch it, yet they now expressly hide it.
@@peterhunorI do have exactly the the same problem. I’ve been trying to find videos which I did watched 10 years ago( some of them have lots of views) and I couldn’t find them
I agree with this so much, its getting harder and harder to find quality content, I aggressively use the "do not recommend this channel" feature because youtube is constantly pushing garbage I have no interest in. I'm also at a point where I'm afraid of clicking on something I'm kinda curious about but know I would never watch more than one video of because if I do, suddenly that topic will be all over my feed for the next month.
It's all money. That's why I like those smaller channels. Big channels don't even bother to reply to your comments any more. If you don't feel you are part of the community what's the point of participating.
In a way it's kinda sad that it's the expected way of things - small channel starts out with zero audience, interacts with the few, starts gathering mass, they can only reply to the first/top few comments, then they become more successful and even bigger, and by then they can only reply to one or two comments or none at all. as much as I'd like for those now bigger channels to continue interacting with me, I know they just can't. also if you find a cool channel and they're already big, there's no way you'll be able to build a relationship with them the same way the people who followed them since they were a smaller channel would. it's unfortunate but natural. that's why sometimes I prefer watching smaller channels since it feels more personal when they take the time to read and reply to comments. but I also want them to succeed so...
@@KyrosX27I still respond to some comments. I do it less than when I started because the comments were so toxic for a while. I think RUclips has gotten better at filtering them because they aren’t as bad anymore
@@chelseanorthrup8787i suggest that you guys should reply with main channel id and personal initials or something. You're both very good at replying to comments but most people will probably think you're bots 😅
2023 India’s population was 1,425,775,850 which is 138 billion people more than the US & they’re churning out content like you wouldn’t believe. The point is many Americans think RUclips is theirs. Fact is it’s not & US content will diminish as access to social media & affordable cameras & devices permeate developing & 3rd world countries. As a regular traveler to Asia I’ve seen people in very poor countries using inexpensive smartphones to make content. You have the general breakdown of numbers of content creator but not the demographics. They would be interesting & perhaps more revealing.
It seems the better our videos get, the fewer views they get. 4 years and we're making less than when we first were monetized. But, we love photography. We're passionate about creating beautiful videos as we travel in our van, so we're going to keep going (letting go of the pressure) and make videos for the joy of it. (It's a privileged place to be.)
My tip is spend less time on the videos. I believe this is going to become a “genre”. It’s the difference between being a youtuber, which I define as people doing things and going places to make a yt video. And being a person passionate about something, and they just so happen to have a camera also and are capturing a few of the moments along the way, with much less editing etc. I think that’s the future because it’s less fake and you get more actual experts showing you things. I hope I made sense
That short attention span is so true. You both seem to get the pace perfect actually. I don’t even feel like you’re rambling cause everything you say is educational. (relevant to your title). (Probably because of your depth of experience.) In contrast, alot of creators just use a catchy title and thumbnail and then ramble for minutes then only like 5% of that video addresses that catfish title. and on the other hand many creators on social media especially , just chop/chop/chop to only impress but you didn’t get to really learn what that was about. Thanks for keeping to your good qualities. 🙌
I have a small landscape photography based channel with less than 2k subs. There was a comment you made about the platform pushing new creators for a short while and then backing away, and that kind of happened to me for a time. I had one video that just rose above the rest of my content and my subs grew - then suddenly it stopped! And it has never picked up. I've followed Tony's advice though, to just carry on being me and making videos about aspects of landscape photography that I enjoy. I was told that the average life of a channel is about 5 years - I've been publishing regularly since 1st Jan'2021 so I've got a few more years to go to beat that average, and that is my first goal; to get to 1st January 2026 and celebrate my 5 years anniversary on RUclips :)
I've been subscribed to you guys for about 7 years, with notifications enabled. Yet, for some reason, RUclips started to show less and less videos from you in my feed, to the point where I had forgotten about the channel until today, when I saw this video in my feed. I think the last time I saw one of your videos in my feed was about 6 months ago, or maybe more. Subscriptions and notifications mean shit to RUclips these days. They will show you whatever the algorithm thinks will engage you.
I've watched a fair number of your videos over the last 6 years, and they were very helpful as a beginning photographer. I still watch a lot of videos about photography and I've noticed that videos from your channel are never recommended to be anymore. I do get tons of recommendations for photography videos from other creators. I'm not sure why this would be the case, but since you're talking about these things I thought I would let you know. A few weeks back I was wondering if y'all were still making videos because I hadn't seen one in several years. Glad to see you're still at it! Thanks for all the help!
Thanks so much for this video Tony & Chelsea. No disrespect but you guys are like the Mom and Dad of RUclips. You both provide a lot of wisdom and guidance yet displaying tons of confidence and patience in guiding folks doing the best they can at making it in this RUclips thing. Thanks for being the voices of reason, beacons of light, and encouragement for so many years on this platform. I absolutely love you guys! ❤
Especially in the last two years somehow tony and chelsea have elevated their game and videos are even more appealing to watch with an unseen level of honesty. Love them❤️
“Be yourself” is a major reason I’m one of your long time subscribers. It NEVER feels like you’re trying to win me over to make me like you. I DO like you for that, as well as for both being genuine, honest, and willing to share useful info in the photo / video space. My DSLR education in 2012 with my Canon 60D was here (and your book). My Mavic Air education was here - and much more along the way. Here you are again sharing honest, real world info about life in the RUclips space, which will be useful to any “creators” who see it - hopefully a lot, but you’ve done it regardless which is the point. Thanks to you both! 👍
Excellent advice! As a 63 yo physician and amateur photographer Covid took the breathe out of my passion and joy in my job … photography was my savior and after three years of intense learning and life changing trips I’ve combined my passion for medicine and love for photography into a new RUclips channel “ Healing through Art - A Doctor’s Photographic journey for Hope “ I only have 131 followers but it is an outlet for my passion and IF I ever get traction all proceeds will go to my wife’s Cancer Pt Charity and if not what fun I’m having growing in this amazing world of photography and videography …a win -win 😍
To be honest, I've grown tired of RUclips. Not only RUclips, but in fact the internet as a whole. Jaded. With respect to RUclips, it's become too slick. Too many ads. I don't watch it for entertainment any longer, but rather for information, reviews or instructions on how to do something. The good stuff on RUclips is crowded out by all the rubbish. As far as AI goes, I have absolutely no time for it. No time for anything that is fake. Tony and Chelsea, I do like your videos very much and appreciate how you are so honest, down-to-earth and real, and relate well to many things you cover.
Get a good ad-blocker. Funny thing was, when youtube found a way around my ad-blocker, all the ads that got through were for adblockers :o) Own goal! I use Adblock. Currently blocking 100%
I totally agree and I am sick of youtubers complaining about how hard their lives are. Get a life! I think its also that during and after Covid, youtube peaked. Then suddenly there was increase in wanna-be equipment reviewers.Long form content seems to be doing better than short form but Its still mainly boring.
I have been taking pictures for 66 years and I am very much an amateur (I am retired now and was an engineer/scientist). I have always loved photography as it is the junction between art and science, so I am very glad you have the patience to continue to provide the high quality information that a lot of us crave and have not let the chronically critical viewers destroy your willingness to continue to try and help us all and share in your experiences. I have watched many of your YT videos and have always found them to be instructive, agnostic (no obvious affiliations) and, most of all, helpful. This video confirms what we were all suspecting and we just hope you will continue to produce them and above all "be yourselves'.
I think your channel is excellent. When I moved to the Hasselblad X2D system, your channel was one of the main ones I consulted/watched. I was not 100% sure I was doing the right thing - but your views and opinions clarified in my own mind that the X2D was right for me and my landscape & travel photography. Long may you be successful on youtube. Thanks
I am retired and do not need to make money at RUclips. I have had fun with it and earned enough money to buy better cameras. Because of RUclips I have been asked to work on projects for the local Historic Society. It also helped me get a grant to make displays and videos for a local historic site. Being a RUclipsr is just fun and I do not feel any pressure.
I learned photography through this and few other channels, but throughout years I keep watching less photography channels . To this one I welcome back . Keep up
A problem is that here are too any creators, many of whom make poor presentations - not very informative or not presented well. It seems to me that there are many copy cat presenters who see something that they think they can do, but do a bad job of it. I have several interests that I view on RUclips, including photography, politics, and drawing. I have narrowed down my preferred presenters to just a few for each interests. But of course, occasionally a new good one will pop up. I don’t have the time to explore the new ones.
You can’t put it in the bank, but don’t forget your “psychic income “. I am one of many who count you both as teachers and mentors. Your work has guided my development in the hobby I love. You have produced joy and satisfaction and you have contributed to my steadily growing creative success. Although you will never put that on a deposit slip, it’s still “money” in the bank. Thanks for all you do.
It was never a better time for an opportunities than before. We live in over digitised world with dwindling human to human genuine interactions, so attention span is our modern currency.
Thank you Chelsea, Tony, your video made me feel so good. I have a small channel that is 4 years old now, and up to 2 years ago it has been slowly but steadily growing subscribers and views. I have not monetized it, but started BMOC. It never got to the point where it contributes a significant part of my income, just something to help justify the crazy amount of time I put into the channel. Then, even though the subscribers keep on growing steadily, the views have steadily declined from 2 years ago, I am getting the fraction of the views despite now I have a lot more followers. There was a point where I wanted to stop, but I just stopped looking at the subscriber count and view count altogether and it became far less depressing. I also stopped dealing with negative comments, and that also made a huge difference in how it feels to have the channel. Keep up your channel, I am glad you are still here! Cheers, Janos
Thank you so very much for sharing some straight talk with the RUclips creator community. As a small (very, very small) channel, I've often found the world of RUclips frustrating and demoralizing, but those feelings always come up when I pay too much attention to growing on RUclips and not enough attention to my own creative energy and the fulfillment of my personal vision. Your video could not have come to me at a better time, and you've reaffirmed what I've known all along: The greatest rewards that creatives can hope for are the rewards that have no monetary value. Making money is not always fun, but creativity is. Thanks again.
This was a lot of good info! I started my channel for fun but decided I wanted more growth and now that I've had the growth in subs (from some viral shorts) I really need more growth in views for my long videos. It really is hard and it's been a little down for me lately which is frustrating.
Great video! I learned the basics of photography from you and your book and am loving the journey of continuing to learn how to create content that produces real value. Because I’m an educator, I’m lucky to not depend on any income from RUclips but am so happy there is this place for me to create and access an audience.
i've been on youtube ever since the beginning(2005) but only as consumer, only in the last few years(mainly due to the *global incident that shall not be named) that i decided to get into it.. somewhat. i never stop watching you guys, and being watching you guys since almost the beginning of the channel(also), your transition into not only a camera channel is refreshing.
There are very few channels that I watch every video that they put out. Yours is one and making a living on RUclips is very tough. Love you guys. Keep cranking them out and I’ll keep watching.
Me and my wife started a podcast for fun. No money coming from it haha I already do my church’s livestream on RUclips with my cameras so decided to use them during the week for a podcast. Literally just feels like we’re just talking and catching up and just spending time together. So knowing we aren’t making money takes away any pressure on “making it” lol
I saw your entire video. Yes, I do RUclips for fun. To me, RUclips is as a platform that hopefully, if I live long enough, I can reflect or reminisce on the times when I was younger and the places that I went to. It's great that I'm able to share with people on the internet. It brings me joy.
Great commentary on the state of RUclips. The insight you guys have on this topic is really interesting. I don’t feel sad I didn’t become successful on RUclips personally. It’s still fun to make a vid now and then regardless.
Ya'lls videos are ok - but that part about people leaving before getting to the point. There's alot of creators that make a 15 minute video about something that only takes 20 seconds to explain - so that does get kinda annoying.
This is very helpful to hear. As a content creator who has been on RUclips since 2010, I find my numbers are much lower and haven't been able to figure out why. I'm glad in one hand that I'm not the only one, but I'm saddened on the other because we all have so much we can provide. I'm fortunate that 98% of my revenue comes from courses and subscriptions; for those who are using ads and affiliate marketing; phew, it's tough when the views are low. I hope this algorithm changes soon for everyone.
I don't think I can let this vid pass without a few remarks . the first thing that came to mind for me was the recent U-Tube vs. the AdBlocker xit-fight. to understand this we need to look at minutes as currency . if the video forces me to watch ads as in "video will play after this ad" -- or -- skip ad option -- these distractions deprecate the value of the entire video, and predictably tempt the cancel option as the value of the video becomes less than the value of the minutes required. further reflection though leads to a deeper question, that being should we look at the video as being the advert rather than as a vehicle for pushing adverts onto the viewer's system ? some videos that are being produced now will offer a "trailer" -- which is actually an advert for a full subject presentation . this could be via online/stream or DVD purchase ... any way we bake the cookies here I think it's likely that the role of U-Tube, or "how we use U-Tube" -- is very likely changing . to survive we need to adapt as our enviroment changes , ... /GW
That was true, over the last 6 months I have noticed a change in the RUclips way of doing things. Small channels like mine suddenly get featured in browse a lot once you publish an episode. I used to have a 1000 views after a month now in 2days and I am not alone. Seems yt is actively reassessing the monopoly of bigger channels
RUclips grew up just like those smaller creators did. But their ethos is still the same as it always was, a platform to connect people with content they want to see. There's a reason those big creators are big.
I am just starting out and I have noticed that RUclips used to be a great place to learn and now it has become a big commercial for photography gear. I hate and love it at the same time. I just wish that it would go back to being a place where you could support the person by watching his or her videos.
it's going to take a couple years but the amount of creators for RUclips is going to go down, because you got people who are doing this for nothing and just a hobby and time changes and they will abandon their channel and not do it as much and stop all together.. there is a BOOM of kids who are reaching from age 15 to 18 years old who are now old enough to get into making a channel but most of of them are not making money so they will resort to a job or something else and not have time for their channel, and so most of them will go away in time give it 2 to 5 years and about 50% to 75% of them will be gone.. How ever you do have the new kids turning to that age bracket some will start their channel but most won't probably.. It all depends, so most of these creators will go away.. And a lot of them are gamers who have a game or simulation hobby such as Microsoft flight simulator 2020 many of them are making their channel and not really doing it for a living to make money but their hobby.. How ever Film and Photography Channels have gone up in the past 6 years they are more than 120% now than they use to be 6 years go.. But again many of them are hobby and will eventually go away..
There are also a lot of channels which are basically just computer-generated YT channels, at least in the space of science/education videos. Look at some of Kyle Hill's videos, such as the one for _"RUclips’s Science Scam Crisis"._ I'm a person who watches YT videos, and there's another problem which I've noticed on some of the channels. It seems that as the money from ads shrinks, some creators try to make longer videos so their videos will get more ads. But I can't spend 12-24 hours a day watching videos. And as some videos get longer without being more-useful, I decide to drop watching some channels.
As a photography enthusiast, I have been following your channel for ~ 10Y. Primarily - thanks guys for doing this. As a footnote, I have a broad spectrum of interest, and a short attention span, so I watch almost all instructional videos in double speed mode. As long as I can follow the speech, that's fine by me.
I think this is an incredibly important topic right now, with more and more people trying (and failing) to make it on social media. So thanks for doing a deep dive and actually getting the data, etc., this was an interesting video. Especially getting to hear your perspectives as people who've been on the platform and creating for so long.
Thanks for your insights, T&C! One aspect you touched on but didn't explore deeper was the percent of the money that goes to the creator. Besides the middlemen taking most of the payment, there's google itself. Google used to pay more per view, more per ad, etc. I don't have the figures, although I assume you know it, but my sense is that google has been reducing their payments year by year so that they keep most of the advertising money.
I’m not a RUclipsr. I just follow the two of you and watch the videos. My family used to own a camera store and photo lab in southeastern CT, so I grew up in the business. I enjoy photography as hobby and have learned a lot watching your videos and buying your books. I don’t know anything about the RUclips business model. However, I do know that in any career you can only be successful by being yourself and doing your job because you love it. There are few people that are successful in any career they don’t love. Please continue doing the videos you love to do and not the ones you think you have to do just to get a few more followers and likes. I know that’s easy for me to say, but I think that’s the best model to survive in a very competitive marketplace where everything you do gets viewed under a microscope by someone that just wants to complain. I personally enjoy your videos and hope you continue to create and publish content.
I have had a camera in my hand since the age of 14; I am now 75. I am still an amateur who is still learning. Your channel is the first I turn to when I am in doubt. Thank you for all you taught me. Keep doing what you are doing because it works.
A fascinating insight into Youtubing. I think that you are spot-on with the attention span reducing. This could be for various resaons. One because most younger generations want everything immediately. They are not prepared or using to waiting/gaining knowledge, infoe, results etc, and because with youTube, it's tied to how many hits you can achieve. The surging popularity of RUclips shorts could also account for reduction of attention span, vs a full blown video of say 45 minutes. also agree about your comment onsponsored v non-sponsored chanells.
This was my first time watching you guys and I must say, really great conversation. You hit the nail on the head with multiple things. I love the fact that you mentioned that you are not willing to create something for someone whose only interested in you getting to the point in 10 seconds or less because I feel the SAME WAY! I have chosen to focus on viewers who are interested in watching long-form content and want the MEAT so that they can actually implement what they learned.
Thanks for your opinions. Great to hear your experiences. Opening up about the financials in you previous videos show how much work it still takes. It is great that you still have income from previous books and other projects in addition to RUclips. I don't expect I can support myself with RUclips, but this clip inspires me to create more. Like your set and three camera interview. Yes, I watched it from start to finish.
With regard to attention span, I would argue that one of the reasons that attention span is shrinking is that fewer people are communicating meaningfully and intentionally, and it's off-putting to those of us who want to know that the time we spend comsuming that content is going to be beneficial to us in some way. Whether it's print media or broadcast media, there seems to be a lack of ability to structure communication to draw people in. Either writers and creators haven't been taught how to instantly draw people in, or they are ignoring what they've been taught. What I've observed in print and broadcast media is this unnecessarily long tease of what the content is going to be about, assuming it's about anything at all. We're talking basics here - an introduction with a preview or brief synopsis of what's going to be covered, then getting into it in an ordered and cohesive format, followed by a conclusion or wrap-up. Instead, especially on RUclips, what I encounter all too often is a minute or two of yammering on without any discernable purpose, followed by 10-15 minutes of random thoughts that have no particular direction. What scares me is that I suspect that RUclips's own artificially manipulated algorithms might be driving the trend. Quite frankly, it pisses me off. If they can't immediately indicate to me that they've thoughtfully created content that's going to benefit me in some way, I move on. Conversely, I'll read an article that's pages long or watch a video that's 30+ minutes if the writer or creator did their damn job and gave me a compelling reason to continue reading or watching. I'd sooner watch a 25-minute video from Tony and Chelsea than a 5-minute video from some of the others out there. So, my observations and response to attention span metrics is that they are being affected by poorly crafted content, content that's just vomited up with less planning and purpose than you would use to make a PB&J sandwich. We're really going to start seeing the creme rise to the top soon, in all media, because there's such a deluge of crap that people are losing interest.
I created my videos with key points right at the beginning and go deeper into the analysis as I go on. Some complain about the length, but I'm not writing content to the 3 minute mark. Its as long as it needs to be to convey the message.
I run a small RUclips channel where i make videos about my minority languages: very few subscribers. I started recently a Tiktok profile that i neglet: I've already got 4 times the subs. Not to mention Facebook and IG where I'm in tge thousands. It's true that longer videos are not liked anymore but i still need them to explain important points about my language, but it's the meme stuff that makes the views. My wife is so much into short format that i can't even watch a film with her anymore 😢
Great video guys. Honestly, this doesn't even bother me because I'm a performing guitarist, been playing live for about 40 years now, but I have been on RUclips for about 18 years, my 1st video upload was October 2006, and RUclips was WAY different back then. My primary purpose of RUclips was to spotlight my music, & how we ( my wife & I ) money was clients would see what I do & then hire us, so we made money through RUclips by people hirings us, so all this worrying about money on RUclips doesn't even phase us. I have heard of whole groups of people turning their backs on all social media in favor of just living a stress free life. The good thing about being a Baby Boomer is we don't need social media because we've always socialized in real life, now THAT'S LIVING!!! GREAT advice guys, you ROCK!!! Stay Creative, Live Life, Rock On & God Bless.
RUclips never suggests this channel anymore. When I search camera topics I have to actually add Tony and Chelsea to the search. I have been subscribed since the beginning of the channel.
I agree. Its very annoying. This channel and a lot of other channels I have followed for years seem to be getting replaced with things Im less interested in. Also the algorithm is hopeless. I may look for instructional videos on something like fixing a tap and then for ages after watching that video Im bombarded with numerous DIY videos about tap fixing! It doesn't seem able to differentiate between long term interest and one offs.
@@chelseanorthrup8787 I’m all for giving new channels a little help but some of them have a ridiculous amount of views with minimal effort in their content. The algorithm has gone off the rails. This is still my favorite photo channel. I’ll just keep checking in to make sure I don’t miss out on anything 😂
I've been subscribed for years, but I wasn't watching any photo-related YT content for a long time while I was in grad school. I recently was looking into upgrading my camera, and realized that I hadn't seen a video from y'all hit my sub box in at least a couple of years. After searching for and watching your review of the a7r ii I was looking to buy, I've since seen all of your new content in my sub box. The algorithm is tricky, and I wonder if it's more "all or nothing" with niche content like this.
you’d think that photo creators would have more staying power on RUclips - but you’re wrong! Because Photography has ALWAYS been super competitive. Which makes it all the more hilarious: MOST “photographers” on YT….AREN’T! For some damn reason now- owning a camera makes you a photographer.
As a photographer who is working on creating a channel about my photographic art (capture and editing), I am still optimistic about doing it. Even though I know it is a saturated area, I think I have some unique approaches to teach it on You Tube (mostly in creative editing). Time will tell how it goes. This channel helps motivate me and I watched it for years. Whether I am part time now or full time in the future that is fine for now. I will add e-courses and affiliate product reviews.
Niche is the best! It's like a "small town feel." Lots of polite interaction from people who are passionate about your interests. I watched Mr Beast once. Once. I regretted it immediately. It was obvious that that channel and I have nothing in common. Your channel is the best balance. Keep up the great work!
A lot of people are saying how hard it is to find their favorite creators on RUclips. I subscribe to the creators I want to see and then just click on the Subscriptions menu on the side and watch everyone I like and I don't miss any. That way it doesn't matter what RUclips is recommending, I get the creators I want, especially Tony and Chelsea (shameless plug).
As a small creator, I tried going the route RUclips keeps pushing and it was honestly soul sucking. I’ve lost a ton of subscribers and views but I’m finally doing something that I enjoy. It’s been frustrating and have noticed it’s so much harder to push new types of content
I stopped caring about the number of subscribers, just keep pushing better content, trying different things. I have a core that loves it and appreciate the value I bring. I get tired sometimes and burned out, but it's not easy doing two different careers. I wish you well and glad you found your groove.
I know how you feel, I don't do YT for the money and 3.3k subs I get a steady monthly amount but it doesn't really cover costs of making the content. But still, it's hard not to get sucked into focusing on the view counts. I think all discussions about being a RUclips creator should be divided into people doing it for fun and those trying to make some kind of living. The best advice for each is quite different.
I had thought about doing RUclips for years, never took the plunge as I was camera shy and didn’t know how to edit video… I feel a level of regret not trying sooner, but it is what it is… I’ve started posting now mostly because I realised all the closest people in my life don’t actually care about tech as much as I do… So I will use as an outlet to voice opinions and if any successes come from it, great! If not… it’s so far been fun talking to people in the comments section and learning
Don't worry about anyone seeing your content. Your friends won't find you - it's just how the formula works. Once I realized this, I became relaxed. Just play around, try new things and learn. Set some goals and objectives and revisit your vision from time to time. When you do get big enough for people to find out, your content won't be embarrassing from your viewpoint. But the best part, is learning something new all the time - it's a great hobby, and when you do get monetized, no matter how little, your hobby starts paying for itself.
@@OrdinaryFilmmaker thanks for the words of encouragement - Tbf, I’m over the idea of people I know finding my content, if anything it could help views lol… I notice in my life, depending on who I’m talking too my speaking subtly changes. If I’m talking to the guys, a little more bass in my voice might come out… if I’m talking to someone shy, I might sound a little more enthusiastic to help relax them a bit etc… talking to a camera? Zero feedback and I’ve been a little inconsistent in my videos. Just had a scroll through your page, you’ve had some great success at 50k subs… will check out some of your videos on my way into work shortly…
Well the bigger channels might be down in their stats, my small channel, like many other small channels are up in their stats... So youtube and its audience seemed to have switched focus.
Thanks for a thoughtful discussion. You guys were on eof the first guys I started watching not long after you started.The stats were interesting. I do have purpose in my channel bit it's not to make money.Tony's tip on being yourself and not having other people you are trying to copy is very important in my opinion.I am a daggy grandad and that's not likely to change.cheers Geoff
We can always count on you guys to tell it as it is. I am one of those channels that just passed the 10K mark. Yes there is stress, highs and lows, but overall learning and a lot and that is motivating, specially when I can share with an audience and hear that what I am sharing is helping. Now If we can go from motivation to a little cash, then I'll be set 😅
It's interesting hearing your perspective. Being old myself, I stayed to the end. I started my channel to learn new skills and hope to save a few hundred a month for my next camera. I never expected to turn it into a real business, but did that last year incorporating. I want this to be my retirement gig, but love doing it and want to keep doing it, trying new things If I am not very popular, that's fine. I need this to be fun, building a community. Thanks for your perspective - all good and healthy advise. I just need more sleep. Doing this and a day job is a challenge, but its building to 2029 retirement date ;)
You guys hit the nail right on the head. I've just started but I've noticed a video will get some traction and suddenly it just cuts off like YT just stops showing it even though it was trending compared to all my others.
![Lethal Company Music Video 🎵 "Follow The Orders" [VERSION A]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/QeooZB4Z7RA/mqdefault.jpg)
I'm an 80 year old amateur photographer who has thoroughly enjoyed and learned a great deal from your videos over the last ten years. Keep up the good work.
👍😉
Thanks!
It is so hard to find things now on youtube because they just push junk and shorts. Even videos that I know exist I can't find without doing a search via a search engine because they never come up in a youtube search.
Same on instagram. It’s unusable. As long as there are people mindlessly scrolling and viewing whatever they feed them, we will be paying the price
It's less yt and more with the general public. We like to say corporations are greedy but individuals are worse. If some person is offered $$$ to push a product they'll do it regardless of what it is. Those people are the ones flooding yt with terrible videos like AI generated readings off of someone's website. Top 10 list of random stuff with zero facts, conspiracy knuckleheads and sensational news. Let's also not shy away from us, who can't even read more than 3 sentences at a time or spend more than a minute to watch a video
That's true. I've been watching a Hungarian debate show from classic TV here on RUclips for a year now. As it's released once a week I used to get it in my feed as soon as it was published. Now I can't find it even if I search for it. I ALWAYS need to use the filters and rank the videos by most recent to by able to find something that RUclips used to just recommend me right in my feed. They know I want to watch it, yet they now expressly hide it.
@@peterhunorI do have exactly the the same problem. I’ve been trying to find videos which I did watched 10 years ago( some of them have lots of views) and I couldn’t find them
I agree with this so much, its getting harder and harder to find quality content, I aggressively use the "do not recommend this channel" feature because youtube is constantly pushing garbage I have no interest in. I'm also at a point where I'm afraid of clicking on something I'm kinda curious about but know I would never watch more than one video of because if I do, suddenly that topic will be all over my feed for the next month.
It's all money. That's why I like those smaller channels. Big channels don't even bother to reply to your comments any more. If you don't feel you are part of the community what's the point of participating.
In a way it's kinda sad that it's the expected way of things - small channel starts out with zero audience, interacts with the few, starts gathering mass, they can only reply to the first/top few comments, then they become more successful and even bigger, and by then they can only reply to one or two comments or none at all. as much as I'd like for those now bigger channels to continue interacting with me, I know they just can't. also if you find a cool channel and they're already big, there's no way you'll be able to build a relationship with them the same way the people who followed them since they were a smaller channel would. it's unfortunate but natural. that's why sometimes I prefer watching smaller channels since it feels more personal when they take the time to read and reply to comments. but I also want them to succeed so...
@@KyrosX27I still respond to some comments. I do it less than when I started because the comments were so toxic for a while. I think RUclips has gotten better at filtering them because they aren’t as bad anymore
@@chelseanorthrup8787i suggest that you guys should reply with main channel id and personal initials or something. You're both very good at replying to comments but most people will probably think you're bots 😅
2023 India’s population was 1,425,775,850 which is 138 billion people more than the US & they’re churning out content like you wouldn’t believe. The point is many Americans think RUclips is theirs. Fact is it’s not & US content will diminish as access to social media & affordable cameras & devices permeate developing & 3rd world countries. As a regular traveler to Asia I’ve seen people in very poor countries using inexpensive smartphones to make content. You have the general breakdown of numbers of content creator but not the demographics. They would be interesting & perhaps more revealing.
@@BusterMcFlea How bad is your math? India's population is not 138 billion people more than the US, how big do you think India is?
This is one of the most honest and sincere videos I have watched on the RUclips Journey!
It seems the better our videos get, the fewer views they get. 4 years and we're making less than when we first were monetized. But, we love photography. We're passionate about creating beautiful videos as we travel in our van, so we're going to keep going (letting go of the pressure) and make videos for the joy of it. (It's a privileged place to be.)
My tip is spend less time on the videos. I believe this is going to become a “genre”. It’s the difference between being a youtuber, which I define as people doing things and going places to make a yt video. And being a person passionate about something, and they just so happen to have a camera also and are capturing a few of the moments along the way, with much less editing etc. I think that’s the future because it’s less fake and you get more actual experts showing you things. I hope I made sense
That short attention span is so true.
You both seem to get the pace perfect actually. I don’t even feel like you’re rambling cause everything you say is educational. (relevant to your title).
(Probably because of your depth of experience.)
In contrast, alot of creators just use a catchy title and thumbnail and then ramble for minutes then only like 5% of that video addresses that catfish title.
and on the other hand
many creators on social media especially , just chop/chop/chop to only impress but you didn’t get to really learn what that was about.
Thanks for keeping to your good qualities. 🙌
I have a small landscape photography based channel with less than 2k subs. There was a comment you made about the platform pushing new creators for a short while and then backing away, and that kind of happened to me for a time. I had one video that just rose above the rest of my content and my subs grew - then suddenly it stopped! And it has never picked up. I've followed Tony's advice though, to just carry on being me and making videos about aspects of landscape photography that I enjoy. I was told that the average life of a channel is about 5 years - I've been publishing regularly since 1st Jan'2021 so I've got a few more years to go to beat that average, and that is my first goal; to get to 1st January 2026 and celebrate my 5 years anniversary on RUclips :)
Thank you Tony and Chelsea for this video. I needed your tips.
I've been subscribed to you guys for about 7 years, with notifications enabled. Yet, for some reason, RUclips started to show less and less videos from you in my feed, to the point where I had forgotten about the channel until today, when I saw this video in my feed. I think the last time I saw one of your videos in my feed was about 6 months ago, or maybe more. Subscriptions and notifications mean shit to RUclips these days. They will show you whatever the algorithm thinks will engage you.
I’ve heard from a lot of people that they stop getting notifications about our videos
I've watched a fair number of your videos over the last 6 years, and they were very helpful as a beginning photographer. I still watch a lot of videos about photography and I've noticed that videos from your channel are never recommended to be anymore. I do get tons of recommendations for photography videos from other creators. I'm not sure why this would be the case, but since you're talking about these things I thought I would let you know. A few weeks back I was wondering if y'all were still making videos because I hadn't seen one in several years. Glad to see you're still at it! Thanks for all the help!
I knew I will never make a penny off of YT, but I never imagined how hard would be to gain subs.
subs mean nothing, yt isnt twitch
Thanks so much for this video Tony & Chelsea. No disrespect but you guys are like the Mom and Dad of RUclips. You both provide a lot of wisdom and guidance yet displaying tons of confidence and patience in guiding folks doing the best they can at making it in this RUclips thing. Thanks for being the voices of reason, beacons of light, and encouragement for so many years on this platform. I absolutely love you guys! ❤
Awww thank you for the kind words ❤
Thank you so much!
Especially in the last two years somehow tony and chelsea have elevated their game and videos are even more appealing to watch with an unseen level of honesty. Love them❤️
“Be yourself” is a major reason I’m one of your long time subscribers. It NEVER feels like you’re trying to win me over to make me like you. I DO like you for that, as well as for both being genuine, honest, and willing to share useful info in the photo / video space. My DSLR education in 2012 with my Canon 60D was here (and your book). My Mavic Air education was here - and much more along the way. Here you are again sharing honest, real world info about life in the RUclips space, which will be useful to any “creators” who see it - hopefully a lot, but you’ve done it regardless which is the point. Thanks to you both! 👍
Excellent advice! As a 63 yo physician and amateur photographer Covid took the breathe out of my passion and joy in my job … photography was my savior and after three years of intense learning and life changing trips I’ve combined my passion for medicine and love for photography into a new RUclips channel “ Healing through Art - A Doctor’s Photographic journey for Hope “ I only have 131 followers but it is an outlet for my passion and IF I ever get traction all proceeds will go to my wife’s Cancer Pt Charity and if not what fun I’m having growing in this amazing world of photography and videography …a win -win 😍
To be honest, I've grown tired of RUclips. Not only RUclips, but in fact the internet as a whole. Jaded. With respect to RUclips, it's become too slick. Too many ads. I don't watch it for entertainment any longer, but rather for information, reviews or instructions on how to do something. The good stuff on RUclips is crowded out by all the rubbish. As far as AI goes, I have absolutely no time for it. No time for anything that is fake. Tony and Chelsea, I do like your videos very much and appreciate how you are so honest, down-to-earth and real, and relate well to many things you cover.
Honestly, I feel the same way. The internet used to be more fun.
Get a good ad-blocker. Funny thing was, when youtube found a way around my ad-blocker, all the ads that got through were for adblockers :o) Own goal!
I use Adblock. Currently blocking 100%
I totally agree and I am sick of youtubers complaining about how hard their lives are. Get a life! I think its also that during and after Covid, youtube peaked. Then suddenly there was increase in wanna-be equipment reviewers.Long form content seems to be doing better than short form but Its still mainly boring.
I now have a Square Space site!
You guys I’ve been watching you for years and I DO pay attention. Thank you for your integrity.
Thank you for watching!
Thanks for this inspirational and comforting talk. I feel my channel is moving at Andy's tunnel pace, just hope it won't take 19 years 🙂
I have been taking pictures for 66 years and I am very much an amateur (I am retired now and was an engineer/scientist). I have always loved photography as it is the junction between art and science, so I am very glad you have the patience to continue to provide the high quality information that a lot of us crave and have not let the chronically critical viewers destroy your willingness to continue to try and help us all and share in your experiences. I have watched many of your YT videos and have always found them to be instructive, agnostic (no obvious affiliations) and, most of all, helpful. This video confirms what we were all suspecting and we just hope you will continue to produce them and above all "be yourselves'.
Very good perspective and well presented with true facts. Let's see where this road will lead us to.
Much love 💕
Matthias 👋
“Be yourself repeatedly and passionately.” 100%
I think your channel is excellent. When I moved to the Hasselblad X2D system, your channel was one of the main ones I consulted/watched. I was not 100% sure I was doing the right thing - but your views and opinions clarified in my own mind that the X2D was right for me and my landscape & travel photography. Long may you be successful on youtube. Thanks
I am retired and do not need to make money at RUclips. I have had fun with it and earned enough money to buy better cameras. Because of RUclips I have been asked to work on projects for the local Historic Society. It also helped me get a grant to make displays and videos for a local historic site. Being a RUclipsr is just fun and I do not feel any pressure.
You two are a great double act - have been subscribed to you for years and very much appreciate the content you create
I learned photography through this and few other channels, but throughout years I keep watching less photography channels . To this one I welcome back . Keep up
Apart from your knowledge about everything photography your strongest point is that you are nice, honest and open-minded people.
A problem is that here are too any creators, many of whom make poor presentations - not very informative or not presented well. It seems to me that there are many copy cat presenters who see something that they think they can do, but do a bad job of it. I have several interests that I view on RUclips, including photography, politics, and drawing. I have narrowed down my preferred presenters to just a few for each interests. But of course, occasionally a new good one will pop up. I don’t have the time to explore the new ones.
You can’t put it in the bank, but don’t forget your “psychic income “. I am one of many who count you both as teachers and mentors. Your work has guided my development in the hobby I love. You have produced joy and satisfaction and you have contributed to my steadily growing creative success. Although you will never put that on a deposit slip, it’s still “money” in the bank. Thanks for all you do.
That’s so nice to hear! We’re teachers first and it makes us so happy when we hear our work is helping people.
It was never a better time for an opportunities than before. We live in over digitised world with dwindling human to human genuine interactions, so attention span is our modern currency.
Thank you Chelsea, Tony, your video made me feel so good. I have a small channel that is 4 years old now, and up to 2 years ago it has been slowly but steadily growing subscribers and views. I have not monetized it, but started BMOC. It never got to the point where it contributes a significant part of my income, just something to help justify the crazy amount of time I put into the channel. Then, even though the subscribers keep on growing steadily, the views have steadily declined from 2 years ago, I am getting the fraction of the views despite now I have a lot more followers.
There was a point where I wanted to stop, but I just stopped looking at the subscriber count and view count altogether and it became far less depressing. I also stopped dealing with negative comments, and that also made a huge difference in how it feels to have the channel.
Keep up your channel, I am glad you are still here! Cheers, Janos
Been following for many years and enjoy your NO affiliation and sincere opinions
The problem is RUclips is all enshittified with too many ads now. It is misery for the viewer.
Thank you so very much for sharing some straight talk with the RUclips creator community. As a small (very, very small) channel, I've often found the world of RUclips frustrating and demoralizing, but those feelings always come up when I pay too much attention to growing on RUclips and not enough attention to my own creative energy and the fulfillment of my personal vision. Your video could not have come to me at a better time, and you've reaffirmed what I've known all along: The greatest rewards that creatives can hope for are the rewards that have no monetary value. Making money is not always fun, but creativity is. Thanks again.
Great video guys! Many niches have bigger and bigger problems, including mine that is Astrophotography
This was a lot of good info! I started my channel for fun but decided I wanted more growth and now that I've had the growth in subs (from some viral shorts) I really need more growth in views for my long videos. It really is hard and it's been a little down for me lately which is frustrating.
Great video! I learned the basics of photography from you and your book and am loving the journey of continuing to learn how to create content that produces real value. Because I’m an educator, I’m lucky to not depend on any income from RUclips but am so happy there is this place for me to create and access an audience.
i've been on youtube ever since the beginning(2005) but only as consumer, only in the last few years(mainly due to the *global incident that shall not be named) that i decided to get into it.. somewhat. i never stop watching you guys, and being watching you guys since almost the beginning of the channel(also), your transition into not only a camera channel is refreshing.
There are very few channels that I watch every video that they put out. Yours is one and making a living on RUclips is very tough. Love you guys. Keep cranking them out and I’ll keep watching.
Thank you!
I have learned and continue to learn a ton from watching your channel. Thank you for all of the great content, y’all are the best!
I have always loved your live shows since i first got into photography. Its my favourite part of your channel guys ❤
"Most people have dropped off by now." That got a smile out of me!
Me and my wife started a podcast for fun. No money coming from it haha I already do my church’s livestream on RUclips with my cameras so decided to use them during the week for a podcast. Literally just feels like we’re just talking and catching up and just spending time together. So knowing we aren’t making money takes away any pressure on “making it” lol
I saw your entire video. Yes, I do RUclips for fun. To me, RUclips is as a platform that hopefully, if I live long enough, I can reflect or reminisce on the times when I was younger and the places that I went to. It's great that I'm able to share with people on the internet. It brings me joy.
Great commentary on the state of RUclips. The insight you guys have on this topic is really interesting. I don’t feel sad I didn’t become successful on RUclips personally. It’s still fun to make a vid now and then regardless.
Ya'lls videos are ok - but that part about people leaving before getting to the point. There's alot of creators that make a 15 minute video about something that only takes 20 seconds to explain - so that does get kinda annoying.
This is very helpful to hear. As a content creator who has been on RUclips since 2010, I find my numbers are much lower and haven't been able to figure out why. I'm glad in one hand that I'm not the only one, but I'm saddened on the other because we all have so much we can provide. I'm fortunate that 98% of my revenue comes from courses and subscriptions; for those who are using ads and affiliate marketing; phew, it's tough when the views are low. I hope this algorithm changes soon for everyone.
Solid content. The experience of 15 years is invaluable, honestly.
I don't think I can let this vid pass without a few remarks .
the first thing that came to mind for me was the recent U-Tube vs. the AdBlocker xit-fight. to understand this we need to look at minutes as currency . if the video forces me to watch ads as in "video will play after this ad" -- or -- skip ad option -- these distractions deprecate the value of the entire video, and predictably tempt the cancel option as the value of the video becomes less than the value of the minutes required.
further reflection though leads to a deeper question, that being should we look at the video as being the advert rather than as a vehicle for pushing adverts onto the viewer's system ? some videos that are being produced now will offer a "trailer" -- which is actually an advert for a full subject presentation . this could be via online/stream or DVD purchase ...
any way we bake the cookies here I think it's likely that the role of U-Tube, or "how we use U-Tube" -- is very likely changing . to survive we need to adapt as our enviroment changes , ...
/GW
Love your content; great insights!
Thanks for this video. Its good to know that my experience that things are changing and harder is validated and I'm not just hallucinating :)
RUclips used to be more social and about the smaller creators.
Still can be, you just need to find it.
Way back when RUclips UK did an in depth documentary on lighting and positioning for small creators. Long gone now.
That was true, over the last 6 months I have noticed a change in the RUclips way of doing things. Small channels like mine suddenly get featured in browse a lot once you publish an episode. I used to have a 1000 views after a month now in 2days and I am not alone. Seems yt is actively reassessing the monopoly of bigger channels
@@PaulTakesPhotos I remember the days when you could change the color of your channel and add friends lol.
RUclips grew up just like those smaller creators did. But their ethos is still the same as it always was, a platform to connect people with content they want to see. There's a reason those big creators are big.
I am just starting out and I have noticed that RUclips used to be a great place to learn and now it has become a big commercial for photography gear. I hate and love it at the same time. I just wish that it would go back to being a place where you could support the person by watching his or her videos.
Watching all the way through, great information thank you.
it's going to take a couple years but the amount of creators for RUclips is going to go down, because you got people who are doing this for nothing and just a hobby and time changes and they will abandon their channel and not do it as much and stop all together..
there is a BOOM of kids who are reaching from age 15 to 18 years old who are now old enough to get into making a channel but most of of them are not making money so they will resort to a job or something else and not have time for their channel, and so most of them will go away in time give it 2 to 5 years and about 50% to 75% of them will be gone..
How ever you do have the new kids turning to that age bracket some will start their channel but most won't probably.. It all depends, so most of these creators will go away..
And a lot of them are gamers who have a game or simulation hobby such as Microsoft flight simulator 2020 many of them are making their channel and not really doing it for a living to make money but their hobby..
How ever Film and Photography Channels have gone up in the past 6 years they are more than 120% now than they use to be 6 years go..
But again many of them are hobby and will eventually go away..
There are also a lot of channels which are basically just computer-generated YT channels, at least in the space of science/education videos. Look at some of Kyle Hill's videos, such as the one for _"RUclips’s Science Scam Crisis"._
I'm a person who watches YT videos, and there's another problem which I've noticed on some of the channels. It seems that as the money from ads shrinks, some creators try to make longer videos so their videos will get more ads. But I can't spend 12-24 hours a day watching videos. And as some videos get longer without being more-useful, I decide to drop watching some channels.
As a photography enthusiast, I have been following your channel for ~ 10Y. Primarily - thanks guys for doing this. As a footnote, I have a broad spectrum of interest, and a short attention span, so I watch almost all instructional videos in double speed mode. As long as I can follow the speech, that's fine by me.
I think this is an incredibly important topic right now, with more and more people trying (and failing) to make it on social media. So thanks for doing a deep dive and actually getting the data, etc., this was an interesting video. Especially getting to hear your perspectives as people who've been on the platform and creating for so long.
I really liked the graphs too.
It’s not you guys. You’re still the best. Not so New to your channel but watching all the time.
Thanks for your insights, T&C! One aspect you touched on but didn't explore deeper was the percent of the money that goes to the creator. Besides the middlemen taking most of the payment, there's google itself. Google used to pay more per view, more per ad, etc. I don't have the figures, although I assume you know it, but my sense is that google has been reducing their payments year by year so that they keep most of the advertising money.
I’m not a RUclipsr. I just follow the two of you and watch the videos. My family used to own a camera store and photo lab in southeastern CT, so I grew up in the business. I enjoy photography as hobby and have learned a lot watching your videos and buying your books. I don’t know anything about the RUclips business model. However, I do know that in any career you can only be successful by being yourself and doing your job because you love it. There are few people that are successful in any career they don’t love. Please continue doing the videos you love to do and not the ones you think you have to do just to get a few more followers and likes. I know that’s easy for me to say, but I think that’s the best model to survive in a very competitive marketplace where everything you do gets viewed under a microscope by someone that just wants to complain. I personally enjoy your videos and hope you continue to create and publish content.
I'm in the UK and I love your YT content. You've helped me to get the right settings etc. Keep up the good work.
A great video thanks
There is much to watch on youtube as well as my hobby
I have had a camera in my hand since the age of 14; I am now 75. I am still an amateur who is still learning. Your channel is the first I turn to when I am in doubt. Thank you for all you taught me. Keep doing what you are doing because it works.
Thank you! We’re so grateful we get to be a part of people’s photo journey
Whatever lens you’re using here is extremely sharp. Looks great!
A fascinating insight into Youtubing. I think that you are spot-on with the attention span reducing. This could be for various resaons. One because most younger generations want everything immediately. They are not prepared or using to waiting/gaining knowledge, infoe, results etc, and because with youTube, it's tied to how many hits you can achieve. The surging popularity of RUclips shorts could also account for reduction of attention span, vs a full blown video of say 45 minutes. also agree about your comment onsponsored v non-sponsored chanells.
This was my first time watching you guys and I must say, really great conversation. You hit the nail on the head with multiple things. I love the fact that you mentioned that you are not willing to create something for someone whose only interested in you getting to the point in 10 seconds or less because I feel the SAME WAY!
I have chosen to focus on viewers who are interested in watching long-form content and want the MEAT so that they can actually implement what they learned.
This was a really encouraging video, thanks guys!
Interesting, still following your channel, not sure how many years it has been now but still enjoying it.
Thanks for your opinions. Great to hear your experiences. Opening up about the financials in you previous videos show how much work it still takes. It is great that you still have income from previous books and other projects in addition to RUclips. I don't expect I can support myself with RUclips, but this clip inspires me to create more. Like your set and three camera interview. Yes, I watched it from start to finish.
Same for Instagram. Corporations doing their algorithm hell and it causes that everything is worse for everyone. We can’t win.
Anything that is saturated is hard.
That s what she said
💯
With regard to attention span, I would argue that one of the reasons that attention span is shrinking is that fewer people are communicating meaningfully and intentionally, and it's off-putting to those of us who want to know that the time we spend comsuming that content is going to be beneficial to us in some way.
Whether it's print media or broadcast media, there seems to be a lack of ability to structure communication to draw people in. Either writers and creators haven't been taught how to instantly draw people in, or they are ignoring what they've been taught.
What I've observed in print and broadcast media is this unnecessarily long tease of what the content is going to be about, assuming it's about anything at all. We're talking basics here - an introduction with a preview or brief synopsis of what's going to be covered, then getting into it in an ordered and cohesive format, followed by a conclusion or wrap-up.
Instead, especially on RUclips, what I encounter all too often is a minute or two of yammering on without any discernable purpose, followed by 10-15 minutes of random thoughts that have no particular direction. What scares me is that I suspect that RUclips's own artificially manipulated algorithms might be driving the trend. Quite frankly, it pisses me off. If they can't immediately indicate to me that they've thoughtfully created content that's going to benefit me in some way, I move on.
Conversely, I'll read an article that's pages long or watch a video that's 30+ minutes if the writer or creator did their damn job and gave me a compelling reason to continue reading or watching. I'd sooner watch a 25-minute video from Tony and Chelsea than a 5-minute video from some of the others out there.
So, my observations and response to attention span metrics is that they are being affected by poorly crafted content, content that's just vomited up with less planning and purpose than you would use to make a PB&J sandwich. We're really going to start seeing the creme rise to the top soon, in all media, because there's such a deluge of crap that people are losing interest.
I created my videos with key points right at the beginning and go deeper into the analysis as I go on. Some complain about the length, but I'm not writing content to the 3 minute mark. Its as long as it needs to be to convey the message.
I run a small RUclips channel where i make videos about my minority languages: very few subscribers. I started recently a Tiktok profile that i neglet: I've already got 4 times the subs. Not to mention Facebook and IG where I'm in tge thousands. It's true that longer videos are not liked anymore but i still need them to explain important points about my language, but it's the meme stuff that makes the views. My wife is so much into short format that i can't even watch a film with her anymore 😢
Great video guys. Honestly, this doesn't even bother me because I'm a performing guitarist, been playing live for about 40 years now, but I have been on RUclips for about 18 years, my 1st video upload was October 2006, and RUclips was WAY different back then. My primary purpose of RUclips was to spotlight my music, & how we ( my wife & I ) money was clients would see what I do & then hire us, so we made money through RUclips by people hirings us, so all this worrying about money on RUclips doesn't even phase us. I have heard of whole groups of people turning their backs on all social media in favor of just living a stress free life. The good thing about being a Baby Boomer is we don't need social media because we've always socialized in real life, now THAT'S LIVING!!! GREAT advice guys, you ROCK!!! Stay Creative, Live Life, Rock On & God Bless.
RUclips never suggests this channel anymore. When I search camera topics I have to actually add Tony and Chelsea to the search. I have been subscribed since the beginning of the channel.
I agree. Its very annoying. This channel and a lot of other channels I have followed for years seem to be getting replaced with things Im less interested in. Also the algorithm is hopeless. I may look for instructional videos on something like fixing a tap and then for ages after watching that video Im bombarded with numerous DIY videos about tap fixing! It doesn't seem able to differentiate between long term interest and one offs.
That happens to me with creators I follow, too. I try to tell the algorithm I’m interested but they keep showing me new people.
@@chelseanorthrup8787 I’m all for giving new channels a little help but some of them have a ridiculous amount of views with minimal effort in their content. The algorithm has gone off the rails. This is still my favorite photo channel. I’ll just keep checking in to make sure I don’t miss out on anything 😂
I've been subscribed for years, but I wasn't watching any photo-related YT content for a long time while I was in grad school. I recently was looking into upgrading my camera, and realized that I hadn't seen a video from y'all hit my sub box in at least a couple of years. After searching for and watching your review of the a7r ii I was looking to buy, I've since seen all of your new content in my sub box. The algorithm is tricky, and I wonder if it's more "all or nothing" with niche content like this.
you’d think that photo creators would have more staying power on RUclips - but you’re wrong! Because Photography has ALWAYS been super competitive. Which makes it all the more hilarious: MOST “photographers” on YT….AREN’T! For some damn reason now- owning a camera makes you a photographer.
i just need everybody else to give up
I was going to switch to something else but she started in on shortened attention spans so I stayed and watched to the end just to be contrary.
As a photographer who is working on creating a channel about my photographic art (capture and editing), I am still optimistic about doing it. Even though I know it is a saturated area, I think I have some unique approaches to teach it on You Tube (mostly in creative editing). Time will tell how it goes. This channel helps motivate me and I watched it for years. Whether I am part time now or full time in the future that is fine for now. I will add e-courses and affiliate product reviews.
Very intersting honest discussion. I learned a lot. Thank-you.
I watched to the end (not checked but I assume I'm not the only one that has said the same)! 🙂
Love your content always as a very new beginner you help a lot.
Niche is the best! It's like a "small town feel." Lots of polite interaction from people who are passionate about your interests. I watched Mr Beast once. Once. I regretted it immediately. It was obvious that that channel and I have nothing in common. Your channel is the best balance. Keep up the great work!
A lot of people are saying how hard it is to find their favorite creators on RUclips. I subscribe to the creators I want to see and then just click on the Subscriptions menu on the side and watch everyone I like and I don't miss any. That way it doesn't matter what RUclips is recommending, I get the creators I want, especially Tony and Chelsea (shameless plug).
Thanks for being real and authentic
As a small creator, I tried going the route RUclips keeps pushing and it was honestly soul sucking. I’ve lost a ton of subscribers and views but I’m finally doing something that I enjoy. It’s been frustrating and have noticed it’s so much harder to push new types of content
I stopped caring about the number of subscribers, just keep pushing better content, trying different things. I have a core that loves it and appreciate the value I bring. I get tired sometimes and burned out, but it's not easy doing two different careers. I wish you well and glad you found your groove.
I know how you feel, I don't do YT for the money and 3.3k subs I get a steady monthly amount but it doesn't really cover costs of making the content. But still, it's hard not to get sucked into focusing on the view counts.
I think all discussions about being a RUclips creator should be divided into people doing it for fun and those trying to make some kind of living. The best advice for each is quite different.
I had thought about doing RUclips for years, never took the plunge as I was camera shy and didn’t know how to edit video…
I feel a level of regret not trying sooner, but it is what it is…
I’ve started posting now mostly because I realised all the closest people in my life don’t actually care about tech as much as I do…
So I will use as an outlet to voice opinions and if any successes come from it, great! If not… it’s so far been fun talking to people in the comments section and learning
Don't worry about anyone seeing your content. Your friends won't find you - it's just how the formula works. Once I realized this, I became relaxed. Just play around, try new things and learn. Set some goals and objectives and revisit your vision from time to time.
When you do get big enough for people to find out, your content won't be embarrassing from your viewpoint. But the best part, is learning something new all the time - it's a great hobby, and when you do get monetized, no matter how little, your hobby starts paying for itself.
@@OrdinaryFilmmaker thanks for the words of encouragement - Tbf, I’m over the idea of people I know finding my content, if anything it could help views lol…
I notice in my life, depending on who I’m talking too my speaking subtly changes.
If I’m talking to the guys, a little more bass in my voice might come out… if I’m talking to someone shy, I might sound a little more enthusiastic to help relax them a bit etc… talking to a camera? Zero feedback and I’ve been a little inconsistent in my videos.
Just had a scroll through your page, you’ve had some great success at 50k subs… will check out some of your videos on my way into work shortly…
Thanks. This is a great video. So many excellent points. A lot of this resonates with my experience in recent months. Something is clearly changing.
Well the bigger channels might be down in their stats, my small channel, like many other small channels are up in their stats... So youtube and its audience seemed to have switched focus.
I really enjoy and learn from all your videos! Thank you!
Same here - a lot of good points in here.
Chelsea & Tony - interesting and unique video - loved it!
Would you please post a link to the referenced stats?
Yes we added a link to where I got most of the info
Keep on keeping on! I love learning and being up-dated… still not mirrorless…
Thanks for a thoughtful discussion. You guys were on eof the first guys I started watching not long after you started.The stats were interesting. I do have purpose in my channel bit it's not to make money.Tony's tip on being yourself and not having other people you are trying to copy is very important in my opinion.I am a daggy grandad and that's not likely to change.cheers Geoff
We can always count on you guys to tell it as it is. I am one of those channels that just passed the 10K mark. Yes there is stress, highs and lows, but overall learning and a lot and that is motivating, specially when I can share with an audience and hear that what I am sharing is helping. Now If we can go from motivation to a little cash, then I'll be set 😅
I dislike shorts , enjoy your content.
12 minutes and…….. 41 seconds still here
Really great info. Thanks for your research. And yes, it's gotten much harder.
It's interesting hearing your perspective. Being old myself, I stayed to the end. I started my channel to learn new skills and hope to save a few hundred a month for my next camera. I never expected to turn it into a real business, but did that last year incorporating. I want this to be my retirement gig, but love doing it and want to keep doing it, trying new things If I am not very popular, that's fine. I need this to be fun, building a community. Thanks for your perspective - all good and healthy advise. I just need more sleep. Doing this and a day job is a challenge, but its building to 2029 retirement date ;)
Best of luck and I hope you get that sleep 😂
You guys hit the nail right on the head. I've just started but I've noticed a video will get some traction and suddenly it just cuts off like YT just stops showing it even though it was trending compared to all my others.