I've purchased a bunch of stuff I've had to grow into for sure, but I don't regret most of the purchases (except that gorilla pod - definitely a bad rookie purchase). Wish I had run into this video earlier for sure. 🙏🏽
Buying an expensive Sony It’s worth it. However when I was a rookie that price slapped me really hard and fast. Should have bought an a6000 or something with full frame lenses
5 years landscape photographer here. Met so many fellow photographers overequiped on the field, with so much unecessary stuff, two tripods, two camera bodies, all the filters that exists, two huge bags to carry all this stuff. The worse is that they explained me how their way of doing is better than mine, while they haven't finished setting up when i finished shooting. They should watch this video. Couldn't agree more with eveything that you said. Man is speaking truth !
True, I have a friend that uses his phone for about 70% of his shots. Being quick can be key to getting a good shot especially in a dynamic world like this. There's still a use for the slow and quality shot but for most of my photography I need to be able to just pull out a cam and snap.
The above photographer you describe is "young." I was that way as well but after lugging substantial weight around for some time, I decided like a good backpacker, to eliminate the unnecessary and unused. When I went out shooting in an area called "Cathedral Grove" here on Vancouver Island yesterday, I brought one camera, one lens and small flash. Today I will take another camera and one zoom (16 to 35), small flash and a tripod (it's dark in there).
@@Male_Parent that'll work if you're taking pictures of your daughter being goody around the house, not if you're actually making a living taking pictures. Phone pictures look like shit when you look at them on anything else but a phone screen.
On your last point, people need to remember that photographers looooved the 5 y/o tech when it first came out. So if they loved it then and made great photos and videos on it back then, then it must be capable of being used to making great photos and videos still. I recently upgraded from an X-E2 to an X-T3. The X-T3 is 5 years old, but I loooove the upgrade from my 9 y/o X-E2 because there were specific features I needed in my work that the X-E2 doesn't have. Also the X-T3 just feels better built. But anyway, if you stay in the past, you'll be happy to upgrade to something that's not quite so far in the past.
I find cleaning a UV filter is easier in the field than cleaning a lens element, where I don’t have to be quite so precious about how I clean it. Also I tend to buy upper range Hoya glass I really like a gimbal for moon pictures with a big lens
Very good points regarding drones and gimbals. A few years ago I bought a drone. After a year not really using it, I sold to to by a gimbal. Same story, very rarely used it and subsequently sold it before it lost too much value. Now I’m investing that money in a high quality tripod which will most likely serve me well for the rest of my life.
I had a UV filter on my lens for a little while because in my mind it made sense in an environment with lots of atomized paint particles floating around in the air. However I started to notice my footage was looking very hazy, turns out the damn thing would fog up!
I could actually see that being a useful scenario for using one, especially if it's a type of paint that doesn't come off easily. But the fogging up thing sucks for sure lol
The drone thing was my biggest problem, I wanna get into real estate shooting more and I purchase a drone with the intention of all the outside shooting but in the densely populated area I’m in near many airports it’s hard to find time to go somewhere with the right environment for practice. I’ve had a drone for like 6 months and only now got a camera, used the drone about twice when I coulda been practicing shooting anything and everything, editing all that stuff this entire time, and now just had to learn to fly. But u live and learn right? I got time lol
I think it may be worth it for folks who really want to focus on aerial stuff, even pursue a part 107 license, but it's tough to feel like it's worth it otherwise. Btw, your user name cracked me up!
Hey Dan, good video. After 15 years of photography, I finally gave up on UV filters. Suddenly, I no longer have sun or light flares in my images. I held onto the practice for years, based on my photojournalism experience where I was put into horrible environmental conditions where I was afraid for the front element of my lenses. But, standing on the sidelines, shooting a football game, I don't have to worry much about environmental conditions. Oh yeah, and my drone never gets used. You're right, all the regulations and restrictions were too much of a pain in the ass.
I put UV filters on all my lenses to protect them and when I went to Nepal I instantly removed them because they trapped fog in between because of the cold.
@@TLK22 wouldn't the fog be inside the lens element had they're not trapped first by the filter glass (unless the lens is weather sealed perhaps)? I wouldn't know but it sounds like it did it's job in this case.
I have scratched filters on my lenses. If the filter was not there, the lens itself would be scratched. I'm going to keep using protective filters on my lenses. Much less expensive to replace a filter than a lens.
sometimes buying gears ended up holding back your creativity. I have bought many camera gears as an intermediate (I make content on other platforms), but sometimes to let creativity flow, I have to strip down all the gear to force myself be creative (except for audio, never compromise). buying better gears doesn't make you a better visual storyteller. it is more important knowing what needs to be in the frame and what needs to be left out, than buying new gears to enhance picture quality, smooth movements, etc.
I Love your comment about better gear. I recall being told many years ago "Nikon make good gear, but buying a Nikon will not make you abetter photographer, it will simple make you a Nikon owner"
I've been taking this hobby seriously for about 4 years now. And I'm actually working as a photographer these days. But you really helped give me the peace of mind that I don't really need the latest and greatest to take some great photos. Cheers!
I am not taking my 'UV' filter off my lens... Actually, I have a promist filter. The amount of times things fly into my lens, not worth the risk. I had lenses that were scratched up, and now are visible. I'd rather replace the filters than need a new lens
Amazing video, thanks for the neutrality (no pun intended). On the camera body it is good to see big photographers still use body cameras that are 3+ years old (with amazing lenses) and of course other big names have the latest... but at that level, companies provide the cameras or discounts. As a beginner I've found that it is much better to experiment and try to take good photos in an old camera because it forces you with those details mentioned: learn to be still or walk in a certain way, adjusting settings and get the most out of the limitations.
A great presentation. Thankyou! Somebody talking sense at last. I especially agreed with and enjoyed your comment at 16:30 "marketing departments seem to have competitions creating non existing problems your will need to fix". At 80 + years I've been active in photography since a 10 yr old and I keep all the junk gear I've bought to remind me DON'T DO IT AGAIN, but that doesn't work..... When you go into camera store leave your wallet and cards in the car! A further thank-you for keeping the background music at a sensible level, many presenters have it so loud one cannot hear the dialogue.
Drones are absolutely insanely difficult to learn. You are very correct to point out that the skill and practice is very time consuming and can result in burnout. Unless all you care about is action cams. Don't get a drone early on
Appreciate it, Ashwin! And yeah... I can't even imagine trying to keep up with the phone market professionally. So much unnecessary hype multiple times per year for features that don't really matter or that are only incrementally better than the previous version.
If I had one minor disagreement with this video capturing 80% is capture and 20% is editing. I come from a photojournalism, sports, and portrait background.
Bit late to the party but I would say that I agree with you on the UV filter thing with one qualifying point. The expensive Nikon 16-35mm VR full frame lens has internal focusing, but the zoom action on it causes the front element to dissapear slightly into the body of the lens, allowing dust to settle in the gap before the lens is re-zoomed into the original positon. In several reviews it was specifically mentioned that a UV filter permanently attached would act as a dust filter to prevent most of the dust in the atmosphere from encroaching into the lens itself and end up visible on the internal elements. I have to say, the cost of the lens made me think the small cost of a good filter was worth it. I agree that the UV filters appear to make no difference to the images at all, and the chances are, if the lens or camera is dropped hard enough to break the filter, the lens front element is going to get clobbered too - so for that purpose, its pointless, as you say. As a dust cover though - I think I'll leave mine on that particular lens as insurance. The reviewers could be spot on, so why take the chance.
Yeah, there were some dust issues with Sigma lenses for a while, too where the front elements weren't properly weather sealed. It seems that had a lot to do with this resurgence in "protection" filters because you're never getting that dust out short of taking it to a repair shop. If your lens is afflicted with that, then a screw on filter can certainly make sense - but then you'd need to go with something really high quality like polarpro's quartz glass to make sure the filter doesn't degrade image quality.
@@DanFox I bought it used and to be fair to the original owner, it was in supreme condition, and had a UV filter pre fitted, a Hoya Pro MultiCoated, also in supreme condition. I shone a powerful torch through the lens and found no sign of dust which, I hope, remains the case. UV filters are a bit of a unique one - we all know that they don't really do anything for digital so that gives people the thought that they should buy a cheap one! It is wrong, obviously as, if you paid hundreds for a good lens, why stick a cheap not too good filter on there? I have never used UV filters before this lens, and have always kept the lens hood on. It seems the new lens I got requires a filter and I'd rather not risk it - landscape is outdoors and lots of dust in the air so why would I not? Great set of videos you have, I only found you a few days back so I'm working through your back catalogue. Thanks.
Assuming you place padding between elements, a diaper bag makes a great "non assuming" camera bag. Most are waterproof as well. Like camera bags, however, you'll find diaper bags can get really expensive as well.
I actually love all this advice. I just graduated from a iPhone 13 Pro with a cage and moment lenses to Sony APSC, and I’m always tempted to get a gimbal bc we don’t grace ibis. But as I’ve gotten better at handheld footage especially with s camera strap, I’ve felt like I need the gimbal less.
I have the 14 Pro. I did get an electronic gimbal. At least with the 14 pro, the stabilization is so good that the gimbal just makes things more complicated. I'm more of a stills person and I have to say that I hate the phone for stills. I hadn't purchased a new phone for quite a few years and thought I'd get one of the better phones, with a decent camera. I have a little bit of buyers remorse on the iPhone. So for me, you could add that to the mix as expensive equipment that I really don't need. I do like it for video though and I did need a new phone. I definitely could have gotten by with a much cheaper phone.
@@CartyCantDance Yeah but I was coming from a Galaxy S7, so I hadn't upgraded in quite a few years. I couldn't run Waze and stream music at the same time. I'm sure a $500 phone would have done that fine.
In defense of the gorilla pod I have found it to be a fairly helpful tool for myself, as I do a lot of toy photography using action figures, where the ability to get the camera really close to the ground, and manipulate the legs so that things like rocks and tree roots aren't a problem is really helpful for getting the shots I want. However, I'd say you do have to be cautious about how you use it. I've never had any problems using it in the fashion you would for a normal tripod with my Cannon 60D, but there's no way I'm wrapping that around a tree branch and hoping nothing bad happens. So I'd say for something that falls in that niche where you need to get the camera really close to the ground on rough terrain it's definitely worth a look, but outside of that I really haven't found it to be super useful.
Well, it is useful to YOUR use. It might not be useful for other people. Or most people. But it is useful to you. So your purchase in this case is completely justified.
I have one too, but I was aware of the pitfalls of the eventually loosening joints. I use it minimally, like if I'm in dense brush where I'm trying to get a very specific shot where a typical tripod can be limited, or precarious, like on damp slippery logs, or boggy soil. Manipulating the legs can be a lifesaver. In that case, it's been fine, but then I've not put it through excessive use. I will say, the ball head has been very decent. I actually thought it may be the weak point. I got it pretty cheap, so I didn't feel too bad about buying it for my specific sporadic usage.
I actually love my gorilla pod. I bought one almost a decade ago and it’s still working great. Nothing has come loose yet. Although the little rubber feet leave marks on surfaces. I think it’s just old. The pod is seriously underrated for handheld use and video. Gorilla pod for handheld and video? Yes! I shape the legs are my arm and shoulder and it provides me a little more stability without having to setup a tripod.
The filter comments are spot on. I used to carry multiple sizes of UV, circular polarizers and a set of graduated ND filters. Today I have a set of lenses with the same filter size and I only carry a circular polarizer and a multistop ND filter. Just 2 filters instead of over a dozen. I would never go back.
Appreciate it! And you only need to look as far as the comments on this very video to see folks disagreeing with me 😉🤣 though some of them appear to have misunderstood me to be saying that there's NEVER a time for certain gear instead of my intent to dissuade beginners from buying all the things until they're sure they need them.
My first camera for YT was a canon g7x 3 what a shame full camera and company this thing cant ever focus or keep focus update or no update My experience with this and them I will never buy a canon product ever again I now use all sony never a issue far more capable for what I video even the cheapest zv e10 is a wonder full unit and yes stabilization is something I don't need so I didn't care about that flaw
Yes, the UV filter on my camera is to protect the lens. From dings and scratches. I was a photojournalist. I have damaged a couple of them, where my filter was completely destroyed but the lens was only slightly damaged with the glass of the lens with no scratches. It was cheaper to replace a $5 to $10 filter than a $200 lens. I have had a scratched lens. But I was a film photographer. I shot a lot of B&W film so I used color filters for creative effect. Yes half of ph You is in the darkroom.
You say this was in the film days and back then we Needed a uv to protect the sensor from uv today we nolonger need them. For me it makes no sense in buying a $4000 lens then slap a $5 buck filter on. If you dropped your lens there is a high chance you done damage in side due to impact. A hood takes care of scratches and lens flaring but if it's dropped from a tripod on hard ground the chances are there maybe damage inside the lens UV is an Upsell by the sales man from my own experience I dropped my 24-70f2.8 v2 the glass was fine but I damage the lens
Definitely the work that made all the difference was in the darkroom. And it's really no different now with post production in Photoshop (or whatever). In-camera jpegs are just the modern equivalent of taking a roll of film to a laboratory/shop to be machine processed and printed.
About filters: I use UV filters for protection and because I live in a very sunny country, I find GND filters essential. I actually got a free CPL with my square filter kit, and I find it useless....
As a hobby photographer/videographer myself, I cannot agree more. I own gimbals when I shoot with my phone and I was very impressed by its functionality. Naturally, I grabbed a gimbal when I switched to Sony body. However, I ignored two aspects: camera gimbals are way heavier and bigger; balancing took way longer. I found myself never talking the gimbal out while on a trip even I had it in my bag. Smooth video is nice, but it sort of takes the realistic part out when I tried to vlog. I was a big fan of drones and even built couple of ones before my first purchase of the mavic pro gen 1. Now after 3 upgrades (or maybe downgrades), I own a mavic mini 2. I had it in my camera backpack all the time due to its small size and weight. It doesn’t give me the best quality, but I realized that flying movement is a lot more important to get usable footage than having a great sensor (I.e. practice). For me, getting the convenient gear that I will actually gonna use is way more important than getting the best gear. Now I own an a7c body, super light 16-35 G pz for landscape and video, a super compact 55mm f1.8 for portrait, a 90mm macro and a flash for macro and distant shot, a mavic mini 2 for aero, and a light weight tripod (carbon fiber) for stills and Timelapse. Are these the best in its class? Not really. But these are the gears that I am WILLING to carry every time when I am out shooting. That’s all it matters.
I needed this comment, badly. I have an A7C, 16-35 PZ G, 50 1.8, 24 2.8, (getting a 30 3.5 macro), and a tripod. I have the appropriate filters, and even the non used UV one. Real Estate photography is really what I wanna do; that, and food. Sold all my original equipment when I moved back to Jersey, and for cheaper than the actual value. I have an RGB light, but know I need a kit... Do u recommend a 2 light kit with soft boxes and bouncers (white, black, gold, silver)? I don't need them for the real estate stuff that I just learned requires me to have an actual website, but for food; I'm not sure that this strong ass little light I have will cut it
I consider "editing" to be a crutch for poor photography, not the reverse. Over 50 years of shooting in formats from Minox to 11x14 here, over 20 in digital.
If you're shooting in raw, editing is a requirement because of the way raw files work. As important as getting your composition and pressing the shutter button. Definitely not a crutch. I don't consider slapping an instagram filter on an image to be "editing" though ;)
One thing that I found VERY helpful was a mono-pod. I use it all the time when I'm blogging and the extended leg helps to steady the camera. Plus, the mono-pod gives me something to hold onto with a good grip. That plus the IBIS in the camera works wonders.
I will say, I keep a stack of cheap UV filters that I use for a very specific case. I shoot a lot in a metal shop and I have had bits of flying screaming hot metal actually melt the front element of my lens while shooting. I use the UV filter because I can just toss it in the trash after a shoot. But yeah, generally never use them outside of the steel fabrication shop. Good vid.
I have seen my fair share of scratched front lens elements and I have also seen a fair bit of lenses saved because they had a filter on it. Even if the front lens element is replaceable, the time it takes to send it away to be fixed is time you don't have use of the lens. The filter is worth it imo. Just get a good one so that has the least amount of negative impact on image quality. Although I suppose the dehaze slider in Photoshop could compensate for that. The gorillapod is a bit of a mixed bag. I use it when I travel and it has been extremely convenient to be able to attach it to railings and branches. It so far can hold my 5d4. My only gripe is the rubber rings on the segments are starting to get soft and is leaving black rubber marks on everything I attach the tripod to. Graduated filters are also a mixed bag. Sometimes you don't have the option to bracket the shot (moving elements like crashing waves) and the range of exposure exceeds the dynamic range of the sensor. Sometimes, gear is to help with workflow because for professionals, time is money. Wasting too much time editing is money lost.
Totally disagree about the Joby Tripod, had mine for years, never had an issue, dead easy to set up low or onto a fence post or tree branch, you couldn't do that with the other tripods you showed as they don't grip round stuff. Always had a UV filter on the end of my lenses as an amateur or 20yrs as a pro photographer, and they undoubtedly protect the end of the lens from general wear and tear. Unsurprisingly after 6 months in Afghanistan as a military photographer the only lens front which was damaged was on my Nikon 14-24, why, because you can't fit a UV filter to the front of that. For the minor loss of image quality a filter is easily worth its weight in gold and avoid lens damage. Camera bags are my particular gripe, they are all ugly, all look like camera bags, all way too expensive and leave no room for a jacket, your lunch, a flask of coffee - I tend to go for just modular cases and use a regular rucksack or man-bag.
All good points, but l have to disagree with the gimbal. The problem with gimbals, as you mentioned is people use them as a stabiliser. But really you need to use them properly and learn the follow functions. The way i shoot you just can't shoot handheld. In fact, i would say, handheld is over rated. Just buy a gimbal and learn it it properly.
Great video Dan. Love how you got the message acrss in an informed way and how you used logical reasoning. The section about filters was particularly good and backed up with impirical evidence. At least now, if people still want to use unnecessary filters or any of the other things you menitoned, they will be doing so out of choice and not out of fear of missing out!!!
Nah, adding that 40€ uv filter is worth more than trying to sell a lense with scratches on it. ppl have no idea how little they affect and want to push the price down. Better be save than sorry. Even on 60mp i dont see any difference in quallity or flares. Had a Tamron without one and it collected scratches like crazy.
Listen to this man. With the exception of the filters, I am guilty of everyone of these purchase mistakes. Great video with solid advice. There is no substitute for experience! Anyone want to buy my unused drone?
Got this video randomly recommended. Did really like it, especially about most people not making use of the "Digital" Part of a Camera. I suppose most people think that using a filter is more authentic than digital post processing, but I personally do not need to spend extra money and space to justify myself to others. If it looks good, it looks good. Subscribed.
have to disgree about the drone i am a drone pilot since 5 year doing amazing shot and amazing video but MAN when i got a camera for the fisrt time it was hard time nothing to compare ABSOLUTLY nothing comparable drone are WAY EASIER
Hey man, I just recently got into photography again, I bought a 17-55mm 2.8 to replace the kit lens my T7 came with, it came with a up filter, is there any reason I should take it off of is it not doing anything i need to worry about?
Dude, this was such an informative video. You definitely made great points & honestly discussed concerns I’ve had in the past about certain products, and now I’m super glad I didn’t buy these things. Thanks a ton!
WTF is a gorilla pod? That thing looks like a gimmicky piece of junk, I will take my $30 Zomie tripod over that thing. It is not the best tripod ever but it won't give from use and it's going on 4 years since I bought it and put a dent in a leg but no issues. With drones you also have to know your local laws, they are banned where I photograph.
I use UV filters as "protection filters". I have tested them against no filter for image degradation, and only my Sony 200-600mm zoom shows any. Protection-wise, my best example is moving to a slightly different position for a landscape shot, slipping on a log, and dropping my camera lens-first onto that same log. This broke the hood, pushing the broken hood piece into and breaking the cheapo UV filter. The front element of my lens was saved. Would the lens cap have done the same? Most likely, but I didn't have it on. The $10 filter save me $2000. Again, I buy the cheapest filter I can. If I'm shooting into light I may remove the filter for the shot.
For a long time I thought an undercamera battery grip is good untill I realized I'm paying too much for functions I might not really need since vertical photos are rare if you're not doing events or weddings. I guess if I had to start over...I'd have a sony a7IV, an 80 GB card, an extra battery, a tamron 28-75 mm and a 70-180mm one, a tripod and a backpack.
My lord, Gorillapods are so bad for cameras XD Like, maybe for lightweight action cams that will have negligible wear on them through weight stress, but normal cameras? Never. I got like 5 knockoff brand versions from Chinese Amazon stores that wanted me to "review" them. I only use these for microphones and action cams, which are decent uses when the tripods are $10-20 and not much of a thought to replace after 4-6 months of positioning wear. Any more than than $20? Nope, I'd rather gaff tape the device to something XD Drones are just a cool/fun factor for me XD I have yet to use them professionally, despite owning a $2k drone and having part 107. Just the setup, scouting, making sure the weather is good for the shots you want, and then having maybe 2-3 hours across a few batteries ontop of needing to get the rest of your shoot done.... For any practical business use, I would be charging out the rear for the hassle and time it would take to make it worth it as someone who isn't a dedicated drone operator (I can operate proficiently and professionally, but it isn't something I live and breathe like those deep in that community). Most of my purchase are either geeky love of the craft and gearhead inspired ones, or because I've identified a problem in my work and could not reasonably improve it through my own skill in a timely manner, if at all. And of course there is always the small imperfections in my works that I will see as the creator, knowing no one else outside of the professional world will ever notice them, but still want to address in some way or another XD But that is the rule of 80/20. 80% of quality is in just having something to shoot photo/video and pure skill and technique, while that last 20% is high end gear that exponentially climbs in price to chance ever diminishing returns.
See, I love a gorilla pod, BUT I don’t trust them with my cameras! They have never felt sturdy enough for me to trust them! HOWEVER I do like them for holding lighting panels or flash in awkward places! But yer, I’m never trusting my camera on one!
I'm not a beginner but one of my regrets was selling my Nikon D750 & downgrading to a mirrorless. I recommend to a beginner especially if you're on a budget is to buy an older DSLR. if you're in the Nikon world it gives cheap access to hundreds older Nikkor lenses. DSLRs picture quality didn't suddenly drop when mirrorless cameras come out!
I don’t own a “new “ camera , I have learned that just because it’s the latest, doesn’t mean it’s the greatest. I have a couple of Nikon F bodies from the 60’s, a legendary F5 from the 90’s, and various other digital cameras that I got from EBay. The last new camera I bought was in 2012,and I just sold it because it was not being used.
Agreed on all , i knew all of this when I was a beginner because iv watched probably a thousand hours worth of yt camera content 😂. I bought a gimbal tho but only because there was a scene in my short movie where we did a mini car chase and that really needed stability. The gimbal still serves me occasionally but I too prefer handheld , its just way less hassle and more organic.
True about the gorilla pod, unless you use it in the same or similar position over time, which is what I have done. 4 years and going strong. But if you fold it and open it daily, then forget it and get something else.
I like the content of your video. Thank you for sharing your experience and tips. I beleived in you. Big helps for me as begginer vlogger. Keep it up. I subscribed you already.
Great assessment as to when to buy and what to buy. "if your current gear holds you back, that might be the signal to upgrade" Maybe the next video is what holds you back, some folks would think that maybe a new sensor would make them look better or sharper, but how do they make sure it's not a skill issue?? Maybe if the same thing has held you back for over a year. IDK.
Know thyself. My photography is really quite simple. I spend much time in the field taking handheld photos of botanical samples for use online. Typically I am in sunny dry a/o dusty areas. A good mid-range zoom and some cropping will get as close to macro as I need to get. I need a body of at east 12 mp, an IS lens with hood, and a midgrade UV filter which will get taken off if I am shooting anything of exceptional interest. I shoot aperture priority unless the wind is blowing in which case I switch to shutter priority. Touch screen is my convenience item, as well as a strong walking stick which frequently serves as an make-do monopod. I carry a cpl filter for shiny or wet surfaces. Tripod, monopod, other filters , extension rings, camera pack, etc., all remain at home.
I've bought my Ronin SC especially for hyperlapse footages. It can be used for stabilizing videos, but i also thoughts i can handle it with my own arms.
UV filter: spend thousands to get the lens with the very best optical quality money can buy, then ruin it by placing a cheap piece of glass in front of it 🤣. Graduated ND, been carrying one for 20+ years, never actually used it(I feel stupid now, please don't tell anybody). Drone: so many restrictions placed on their use that in many countries, you can't really use them at all anymore.
Graduated Filters are advanced. Less about getting a single shot right in camera, more if you need them for long exposures and you need everything exposed properly. Difficult to bracket 2sec and above photos, let alone 10 to 30. Again, this is advanced and you can do some of it with simple ND filters. Graduated are advanced once you find the limitations that a single graduated filter can't do.
"Baking it in camera" is a good thing, not a bad thing. Proof: Fujifilm builds cameras with all kinds of film simulation to do it 'in camera," and this option is very very popular and I personally love it. By the way I also have Canon gear which "in camera baking" really isn't a thing - sadly. I personally want a camera that has all the editing tools my smartphone has so I can edit in camera as well. And while I'm whining, also I'd like EASY transfer of files to the internet such as a smartphone has. Let the "real" process much about in lightroom and photoshop, etc. while us humble amateurs get the job done faster and onto the net easier. In other words, I want smartphone technology in my cameras! Thought I'd edit this in, how about a video on the most under rated but excellent gear, my first vote goes to the monopod, not as good as a tripod but better than hand holding alone even with lenses and cameras with great IBIS and vibration compensation.
I was interested in your comments regarding the Joby Gorilla, I video a music event ever week from a static position in a Pub (bar). I'm actually playing in the band so I can't physically hold the camera or mount the camera on a tripod as it would be obtrusive and impracticable in a crowded bar. So I invested in the Gorilla Pod and I mount it on a metal column and then attach the camera a Zoom Q8 N with a battery backup so the camera mount and camera are slightly overhead it's unobtrusive. In this situation the Gorilla Pod works very well, as I can set my audio level on the camera and just let it record continueously until the end of the evening. I've had no issues with the Gorilla Pod falling apart and I've been recording this open -mic event apart from lockdown since 2019. But I must admit the Gorilla Pod is pricy and the the head mounting screw can loosen. Apart from that it works well for me.
I say the worst mistake to avoid are lens rentals. They are just crazy expensive. Often you pay 10% of MSRP for a single day and easily 20% if you need the thing for a few days. That is just crazy. Also, third party lenses are hardly available as rentals. At these prices, you can buy and resell the gear. Rentals only make sense in very niche cases.
I born at 3800 meters above sea level, (12,500 ft) and shoot film. I have never seen the need to shoot with UV filters, no color shifts or anything related. If anything if they are cheap ones they degrade image quality in both digital and film.
Very valid points, it's really refreshing to see someone actually making truthful RUclips content as.opposed to trying to please Sony's marketing department or trying to sell you their shitty luts.
I can site one time in my photography career, where a UV filter did me a solid and saved my bacon 🥓 for realizes. I was hired to film the finish line of one of those "Fun Mud runs" and every single person would cross the finish line and give a kick towards me and thus flinging a huge mud clot right down the barrel of my lens. I had to swap out and clean that muddy thing over a dozen times that day. (Super fun gig, though)
I have a gymbol. I have not used it since I began using a simple neck strap and a lengthy lens. Neither lens nor camera have stabilisation but the results are still smooth due to the size of the triangle of support I make. It is so much easier to control the direction. Hands are on the lens for focus. I limit my shooting to 10 second bursts to describe the scene. It’s a joy.
I wouldn't put anything heavier than a gopro or phone on a gorilla pod. But for those it's okay. Gear I regret buying? A ball head for the tripod; clumsy to use compared to a good tilt/pan or gimbal head and always seems to want to flop over.
I don’t use the gorillapod for my camera, I use it as a secondary lighting stand and it’s perfect for that. I can get backlights and background illumination set up in seconds without lugging another full size light stand around. Definitely not a good camera tripod.
If you buy a better quality lenses, most of them are nano coated anyway so you do not need to use UV filters that is just a complete waste of time and actually decreases the quality of your images. I also believe that moisture gets checked between the UV filter and the front of the lens, creating a gap which can trap moisture and dirt. Save my advice is don't use them and I am a professional photographer in Australia. I also teach Photography as well and there are some really cool gadgets and there are some really terrible gadgets that you just simply do not need. I don't think the 50% editing 50% capture is probably right but that's okay that's just a number but I definitely agree with you that you don't need to be obsessed with getting the perfect photo. I see guys that sit there for 15 minutes lining up the most perfect shot and for me that missed the moment the moment probably has gone. I have to disagree with you on the graduated filters. I've got a couple of them but I live in Australia and the sunlight here is dam harsh and if you want to sit there and bracket five photos for one shot and then hopefully they all lineup in editing and they are perfectly exposed on the hope that that one image will work. Good luck with that I'm not into that and there are some really good graduated filters that work really well and I just think it's about buying the right brand of filter and knowing how to use it
on the Drone part ... i startet "photography/Videography" with the drone :D and this motivate me to buy an Camera and learn the Camera and match Camera and Drone footage together. Thanks for those advices
I had a very similar discussion with my brother about drones. I love them and will always have a passion for them…but they are in a weird space right now and it just seems like a pain to utilize one as much as I would want on various trips! Great video
have to disagree with the gimbal, simply because where i work, we often had to hire people with little skill in steady hand department , so gimbal is a shortcut for them to make "acceptable" production result, yes we may do mediocre video but when your main concern is making a lot of "ok" video because of demands then gimbal is very important
I believe you said this in a manner but I believe the point is that the latest features don't help much if you did not already know how to maximize results with the old model that lacked those features. Auto everything still fails to fix faults in "f/8 and be there". Sometimes I wonder if my money spent on a new camera might have been better spent on a trip to somewhere worth shooting.
UV filter is a must. First - you don't need a lens caps ever again, second - can't scratch lens with them, they help with weather sealing, last but not least they are way cheaper to replace than the lens, all with barely none IQ degradation. You need to either buy a crappy UV or pixelpeep like a hardcore to see anything to see any.
I bought the gorillapod tripod for my cameras and it was a waste of money. One day I saw it sitting on the shelf and decided to mount my webcam on it for mobile conference calls. Best product ever for very light webcams.
gear you should avoid, is getting any accessories, lenses, tripod, filters, flash... dont even bother all you need in photography is the camera and whatever lens and some memory card dont let influencer tells you to buy any other gear.
The slidder... I guess it is less now but it was the gear to have, that is now sitting at home doing nothing! Great you're doing this, because as you say not only the companies but the youtuber as well are good to make us believe our gear is no longer relevant!!!
No doubt graduated nd filters are the most useless and over-hyped (and expensive) photo gear. I know this because I bought into them after watching videos and ads and ended up with a couple Lee and a set of aHitech grads and can honestly say they have ruined far more shots than helped. In fact I’m not sure I have one decent picture where I’ve used them.
Great info. I have also been saying the same to new photographers. Uv is nothing more than an up sell buy the sales man. Uv was needed in film day, but today, with digital cameras, it is already it. Clad to someone talk about this
Hey disclaimer for any beginners entering this world and have just stumbled across it: YOU DO NOT NEED A GIMBAL. I've been making films for three years now and I'm still terrified of them. Master the necessity of handheld and once you understand every reason to use that technique, do it 100 times more and repurpose those ideas until you know it back to front. Only then, once you've developed a fierce understanding of the consideration of framing, visual narrative and narration, lighting, blocking, and acting, you can even begin to try out a gimbal. I personally don't like them too much anyway, they feel far too streamlined and studio-driven for my taste. I prefer raw, unfiltered, undiluted handheld as it allows the audience to develop a direct connection and relationship with the characters and environment they are getting to know. And if you don't like either, just stick to tripod/still shooting.
What kind of gear have you found to be overhyped? Sound off below! 👇
I've purchased a bunch of stuff I've had to grow into for sure, but I don't regret most of the purchases (except that gorilla pod - definitely a bad rookie purchase). Wish I had run into this video earlier for sure. 🙏🏽
It seems so useful on paper! 😓🤪
Buying an expensive Sony
It’s worth it. However when I was a rookie that price slapped me really hard and fast.
Should have bought an a6000 or something with full frame lenses
lmao where do we start.... Prism? Janky Shoulder Rig? Gimbal... not the electronic one, those old school manual balanced sliders! the list goes on....
Worst gimmick you can find is the lens ball.
5 years landscape photographer here. Met so many fellow photographers overequiped on the field, with so much unecessary stuff, two tripods, two camera bodies, all the filters that exists, two huge bags to carry all this stuff. The worse is that they explained me how their way of doing is better than mine, while they haven't finished setting up when i finished shooting. They should watch this video. Couldn't agree more with eveything that you said. Man is speaking truth !
True, I have a friend that uses his phone for about 70% of his shots. Being quick can be key to getting a good shot especially in a dynamic world like this. There's still a use for the slow and quality shot but for most of my photography I need to be able to just pull out a cam and snap.
Paul one needs to use Prim lenses .
When I go out to shoot I have a purpose and only carry 2 lenses max
The above photographer you describe is "young." I was that way as well but after lugging substantial weight around for some time, I decided like a good backpacker, to eliminate the unnecessary and unused. When I went out shooting in an area called "Cathedral Grove" here on Vancouver Island yesterday, I brought one camera, one lens and small flash. Today I will take another camera and one zoom (16 to 35), small flash and a tripod (it's dark in there).
@@Male_Parent that'll work if you're taking pictures of your daughter being goody around the house, not if you're actually making a living taking pictures. Phone pictures look like shit when you look at them on anything else but a phone screen.
On your last point, people need to remember that photographers looooved the 5 y/o tech when it first came out. So if they loved it then and made great photos and videos on it back then, then it must be capable of being used to making great photos and videos still. I recently upgraded from an X-E2 to an X-T3. The X-T3 is 5 years old, but I loooove the upgrade from my 9 y/o X-E2 because there were specific features I needed in my work that the X-E2 doesn't have. Also the X-T3 just feels better built. But anyway, if you stay in the past, you'll be happy to upgrade to something that's not quite so far in the past.
I find cleaning a UV filter is easier in the field than cleaning a lens element, where I don’t have to be quite so precious about how I clean it. Also I tend to buy upper range Hoya glass
I really like a gimbal for moon pictures with a big lens
Excellent points! As a 67-year-old photographer for over five decades, I agree with ALL of your points!
Very good points regarding drones and gimbals.
A few years ago I bought a drone. After a year not really using it, I sold to to by a gimbal. Same story, very rarely used it and subsequently sold it before it lost too much value. Now I’m investing that money in a high quality tripod which will most likely serve me well for the rest of my life.
I had a UV filter on my lens for a little while because in my mind it made sense in an environment with lots of atomized paint particles floating around in the air. However I started to notice my footage was looking very hazy, turns out the damn thing would fog up!
I could actually see that being a useful scenario for using one, especially if it's a type of paint that doesn't come off easily. But the fogging up thing sucks for sure lol
@@DanFox You rub hand soap on the UV filter, let it sit for a minute or so - then wash the soap off with water. This stops the filter from fogging up.
@@tdunster2011 Yup, so another thing you don't need is fancy anti fog solutions.
The drone thing was my biggest problem, I wanna get into real estate shooting more and I purchase a drone with the intention of all the outside shooting but in the densely populated area I’m in near many airports it’s hard to find time to go somewhere with the right environment for practice. I’ve had a drone for like 6 months and only now got a camera, used the drone about twice when I coulda been practicing shooting anything and everything, editing all that stuff this entire time, and now just had to learn to fly. But u live and learn right? I got time lol
I think it may be worth it for folks who really want to focus on aerial stuff, even pursue a part 107 license, but it's tough to feel like it's worth it otherwise. Btw, your user name cracked me up!
Hey Dan, good video. After 15 years of photography, I finally gave up on UV filters. Suddenly, I no longer have sun or light flares in my images. I held onto the practice for years, based on my photojournalism experience where I was put into horrible environmental conditions where I was afraid for the front element of my lenses. But, standing on the sidelines, shooting a football game, I don't have to worry much about environmental conditions.
Oh yeah, and my drone never gets used. You're right, all the regulations and restrictions were too much of a pain in the ass.
I put UV filters on all my lenses to protect them and when I went to Nepal I instantly removed them because they trapped fog in between because of the cold.
@@TLK22 wouldn't the fog be inside the lens element had they're not trapped first by the filter glass (unless the lens is weather sealed perhaps)?
I wouldn't know but it sounds like it did it's job in this case.
@@shira_yone I use only weather sealed gears when hiking and the fog was trapped between the lens and UV filter so I stopped using them.
I have scratched filters on my lenses. If the filter was not there, the lens itself would be scratched. I'm going to keep using protective filters on my lenses. Much less expensive to replace a filter than a lens.
an you can always take it off when conditions are good (no wind, rain, dust).
sometimes buying gears ended up holding back your creativity. I have bought many camera gears as an intermediate (I make content on other platforms), but sometimes to let creativity flow, I have to strip down all the gear to force myself be creative (except for audio, never compromise). buying better gears doesn't make you a better visual storyteller. it is more important knowing what needs to be in the frame and what needs to be left out, than buying new gears to enhance picture quality, smooth movements, etc.
Gear can definitely become a crutch if you let it!
I Love your comment about better gear. I recall being told many years ago "Nikon make good gear, but buying a Nikon will not make you abetter photographer, it will simple make you a Nikon owner"
I've been taking this hobby seriously for about 4 years now. And I'm actually working as a photographer these days. But you really helped give me the peace of mind that I don't really need the latest and greatest to take some great photos. Cheers!
I am not taking my 'UV' filter off my lens... Actually, I have a promist filter. The amount of times things fly into my lens, not worth the risk. I had lenses that were scratched up, and now are visible. I'd rather replace the filters than need a new lens
Amazing video, thanks for the neutrality (no pun intended).
On the camera body it is good to see big photographers still use body cameras that are 3+ years old (with amazing lenses) and of course other big names have the latest... but at that level, companies provide the cameras or discounts. As a beginner I've found that it is much better to experiment and try to take good photos in an old camera because it forces you with those details mentioned: learn to be still or walk in a certain way, adjusting settings and get the most out of the limitations.
A great presentation. Thankyou! Somebody talking sense at last. I especially agreed with and enjoyed your comment at 16:30 "marketing departments seem to have competitions creating non existing problems your will need to fix". At 80 + years I've been active in photography since a 10 yr old and I keep all the junk gear I've bought to remind me DON'T DO IT AGAIN, but that doesn't work..... When you go into camera store leave your wallet and cards in the car! A further thank-you for keeping the background music at a sensible level, many presenters have it so loud one cannot hear the dialogue.
Drones are absolutely insanely difficult to learn. You are very correct to point out that the skill and practice is very time consuming and can result in burnout. Unless all you care about is action cams. Don't get a drone early on
FPV drones yes totally agree, insanely difficult. But something like a Mavic or Air2s practically flies itself.
As a tech RUclipsr covering phones for the last 10 years... Everything you said after 17:00 applies perfectly to smartphones too
Excellent video btw 😁
Appreciate it, Ashwin! And yeah... I can't even imagine trying to keep up with the phone market professionally. So much unnecessary hype multiple times per year for features that don't really matter or that are only incrementally better than the previous version.
If I had one minor disagreement with this video capturing 80% is capture and 20% is editing. I come from a photojournalism, sports, and portrait background.
Bit late to the party but I would say that I agree with you on the UV filter thing with one qualifying point. The expensive Nikon 16-35mm VR full frame lens has internal focusing, but the zoom action on it causes the front element to dissapear slightly into the body of the lens, allowing dust to settle in the gap before the lens is re-zoomed into the original positon. In several reviews it was specifically mentioned that a UV filter permanently attached would act as a dust filter to prevent most of the dust in the atmosphere from encroaching into the lens itself and end up visible on the internal elements. I have to say, the cost of the lens made me think the small cost of a good filter was worth it. I agree that the UV filters appear to make no difference to the images at all, and the chances are, if the lens or camera is dropped hard enough to break the filter, the lens front element is going to get clobbered too - so for that purpose, its pointless, as you say. As a dust cover though - I think I'll leave mine on that particular lens as insurance. The reviewers could be spot on, so why take the chance.
Yeah, there were some dust issues with Sigma lenses for a while, too where the front elements weren't properly weather sealed. It seems that had a lot to do with this resurgence in "protection" filters because you're never getting that dust out short of taking it to a repair shop. If your lens is afflicted with that, then a screw on filter can certainly make sense - but then you'd need to go with something really high quality like polarpro's quartz glass to make sure the filter doesn't degrade image quality.
@@DanFox I bought it used and to be fair to the original owner, it was in supreme condition, and had a UV filter pre fitted, a Hoya Pro MultiCoated, also in supreme condition. I shone a powerful torch through the lens and found no sign of dust which, I hope, remains the case. UV filters are a bit of a unique one - we all know that they don't really do anything for digital so that gives people the thought that they should buy a cheap one! It is wrong, obviously as, if you paid hundreds for a good lens, why stick a cheap not too good filter on there? I have never used UV filters before this lens, and have always kept the lens hood on. It seems the new lens I got requires a filter and I'd rather not risk it - landscape is outdoors and lots of dust in the air so why would I not?
Great set of videos you have, I only found you a few days back so I'm working through your back catalogue. Thanks.
Assuming you place padding between elements, a diaper bag makes a great "non assuming" camera bag. Most are waterproof as well. Like camera bags, however, you'll find diaper bags can get really expensive as well.
I actually love all this advice. I just graduated from a iPhone 13 Pro with a cage and moment lenses to Sony APSC, and I’m always tempted to get a gimbal bc we don’t grace ibis. But as I’ve gotten better at handheld footage especially with s camera strap, I’ve felt like I need the gimbal less.
Yeah, gimbals are great - when you need them lol. Otherwise, they're just a pain to carry around.
I have the 14 Pro. I did get an electronic gimbal. At least with the 14 pro, the stabilization is so good that the gimbal just makes things more complicated. I'm more of a stills person and I have to say that I hate the phone for stills. I hadn't purchased a new phone for quite a few years and thought I'd get one of the better phones, with a decent camera. I have a little bit of buyers remorse on the iPhone. So for me, you could add that to the mix as expensive equipment that I really don't need. I do like it for video though and I did need a new phone. I definitely could have gotten by with a much cheaper phone.
@@PennyCarlson-cy1iq everything from the 12 onward doesn’t need an upgrade until like the iPhone 20
@@CartyCantDance Yeah but I was coming from a Galaxy S7, so I hadn't upgraded in quite a few years. I couldn't run Waze and stream music at the same time. I'm sure a $500 phone would have done that fine.
In defense of the gorilla pod I have found it to be a fairly helpful tool for myself, as I do a lot of toy photography using action figures, where the ability to get the camera really close to the ground, and manipulate the legs so that things like rocks and tree roots aren't a problem is really helpful for getting the shots I want. However, I'd say you do have to be cautious about how you use it. I've never had any problems using it in the fashion you would for a normal tripod with my Cannon 60D, but there's no way I'm wrapping that around a tree branch and hoping nothing bad happens. So I'd say for something that falls in that niche where you need to get the camera really close to the ground on rough terrain it's definitely worth a look, but outside of that I really haven't found it to be super useful.
Well, it is useful to YOUR use. It might not be useful for other people. Or most people. But it is useful to you. So your purchase in this case is completely justified.
I have one too, but I was aware of the pitfalls of the eventually loosening joints. I use it minimally, like if I'm in dense brush where I'm trying to get a very specific shot where a typical tripod can be limited, or precarious, like on damp slippery logs, or boggy soil. Manipulating the legs can be a lifesaver.
In that case, it's been fine, but then I've not put it through excessive use.
I will say, the ball head has been very decent. I actually thought it may be the weak point.
I got it pretty cheap, so I didn't feel too bad about buying it for my specific sporadic usage.
I actually love my gorilla pod. I bought one almost a decade ago and it’s still working great. Nothing has come loose yet. Although the little rubber feet leave marks on surfaces. I think it’s just old. The pod is seriously underrated for handheld use and video. Gorilla pod for handheld and video? Yes! I shape the legs are my arm and shoulder and it provides me a little more stability without having to setup a tripod.
Gorilla pods only good for pocket strobes, Small LED lights, etc. NOT a camera/lens unless a cell phone.
@@chrisbaudeg3233 also great for GoPros if you want to put them in different spots.
Thanks Dan for the down to Earth video. We definitely need more channels bringing people away from the gear fetish.
Great advice & common sense! Thanks! I sometimes think YT is like a 21st century equivalent of the Gold Rush. New Sub!
Appreciate it!
The filter comments are spot on. I used to carry multiple sizes of UV, circular polarizers and a set of graduated ND filters. Today I have a set of lenses with the same filter size and I only carry a circular polarizer and a multistop ND filter. Just 2 filters instead of over a dozen. I would never go back.
great video, very coherent and 100% true. Unfortunately most people will not be able to take benefit from this.
Appreciate it! And you only need to look as far as the comments on this very video to see folks disagreeing with me 😉🤣 though some of them appear to have misunderstood me to be saying that there's NEVER a time for certain gear instead of my intent to dissuade beginners from buying all the things until they're sure they need them.
My first camera for YT was a canon g7x 3 what a shame full camera and company this thing cant ever focus or keep focus update or no update My experience with this and them I will never buy a canon product ever again I now use all sony never a issue far more capable for what I video even the cheapest zv e10 is a wonder full unit and yes stabilization is something I don't need so I didn't care about that flaw
Yes, the UV filter on my camera is to protect the lens. From dings and scratches. I was a photojournalist. I have damaged a couple of them, where my filter was completely destroyed but the lens was only slightly damaged with the glass of the lens with no scratches. It was cheaper to replace a $5 to $10 filter than a $200 lens. I have had a scratched lens. But I was a film photographer. I shot a lot of B&W film so I used color filters for creative effect.
Yes half of ph
You is in the darkroom.
I found that a lot stuff were gimmicks and I didn’t need.
for me im just going for b&w clear ones so i dont have to clean my lenses as often and especially with the super macro you could get pretty close :)
You say this was in the film days and back then we Needed a uv to protect the sensor from uv today we nolonger need them. For me it makes no sense in buying a $4000 lens then slap a $5 buck filter on. If you dropped your lens there is a high chance you done damage in side due to impact. A hood takes care of scratches and lens flaring but if it's dropped from a tripod on hard ground the chances are there maybe damage inside the lens UV is an Upsell by the sales man from my own experience I dropped my 24-70f2.8 v2 the glass was fine but I damage the lens
Definitely the work that made all the difference was in the darkroom. And it's really no different now with post production in Photoshop (or whatever). In-camera jpegs are just the modern equivalent of taking a roll of film to a laboratory/shop to be machine processed and printed.
About filters: I use UV filters for protection and because I live in a very sunny country, I find GND filters essential. I actually got a free CPL with my square filter kit, and I find it useless....
I shoot in automotive environment and use an UV-Filter to protect my lens from sparks from angle grinders and welders.
As a hobby photographer/videographer myself, I cannot agree more. I own gimbals when I shoot with my phone and I was very impressed by its functionality. Naturally, I grabbed a gimbal when I switched to Sony body. However, I ignored two aspects: camera gimbals are way heavier and bigger; balancing took way longer. I found myself never talking the gimbal out while on a trip even I had it in my bag. Smooth video is nice, but it sort of takes the realistic part out when I tried to vlog. I was a big fan of drones and even built couple of ones before my first purchase of the mavic pro gen 1. Now after 3 upgrades (or maybe downgrades), I own a mavic mini 2. I had it in my camera backpack all the time due to its small size and weight. It doesn’t give me the best quality, but I realized that flying movement is a lot more important to get usable footage than having a great sensor (I.e. practice). For me, getting the convenient gear that I will actually gonna use is way more important than getting the best gear. Now I own an a7c body, super light 16-35 G pz for landscape and video, a super compact 55mm f1.8 for portrait, a 90mm macro and a flash for macro and distant shot, a mavic mini 2 for aero, and a light weight tripod (carbon fiber) for stills and Timelapse. Are these the best in its class? Not really. But these are the gears that I am WILLING to carry every time when I am out shooting. That’s all it matters.
This is such a valuable thing to remember. If gear never gets used, it doesn't matter how good it is.
I needed this comment, badly. I have an A7C, 16-35 PZ G, 50 1.8, 24 2.8, (getting a 30 3.5 macro), and a tripod. I have the appropriate filters, and even the non used UV one. Real Estate photography is really what I wanna do; that, and food. Sold all my original equipment when I moved back to Jersey, and for cheaper than the actual value.
I have an RGB light, but know I need a kit... Do u recommend a 2 light kit with soft boxes and bouncers (white, black, gold, silver)? I don't need them for the real estate stuff that I just learned requires me to have an actual website, but for food; I'm not sure that this strong ass little light I have will cut it
I consider "editing" to be a crutch for poor photography, not the reverse. Over 50 years of shooting in formats from Minox to 11x14 here, over 20 in digital.
If you're shooting in raw, editing is a requirement because of the way raw files work. As important as getting your composition and pressing the shutter button. Definitely not a crutch. I don't consider slapping an instagram filter on an image to be "editing" though ;)
@@DanFox I shoot in raw every day, and never edit. I do process the file into an image, which is not the same as editing.
Dan bought the tripod, which lasted a month. Got it replaced and it lasted six weeks...got refunded.
Wow! Even worse than my experience (though I haven't bought one recently - they must be getting even worse).
One thing that I found VERY helpful was a mono-pod. I use it all the time when I'm blogging and the extended leg helps to steady the camera. Plus, the mono-pod gives me something to hold onto with a good grip. That plus the IBIS in the camera works wonders.
I will say, I keep a stack of cheap UV filters that I use for a very specific case. I shoot a lot in a metal shop and I have had bits of flying screaming hot metal actually melt the front element of my lens while shooting. I use the UV filter because I can just toss it in the trash after a shoot. But yeah, generally never use them outside of the steel fabrication shop.
Good vid.
Yeah, molten metal is a whole different thing 🤣
I have seen my fair share of scratched front lens elements and I have also seen a fair bit of lenses saved because they had a filter on it. Even if the front lens element is replaceable, the time it takes to send it away to be fixed is time you don't have use of the lens. The filter is worth it imo. Just get a good one so that has the least amount of negative impact on image quality. Although I suppose the dehaze slider in Photoshop could compensate for that.
The gorillapod is a bit of a mixed bag. I use it when I travel and it has been extremely convenient to be able to attach it to railings and branches. It so far can hold my 5d4. My only gripe is the rubber rings on the segments are starting to get soft and is leaving black rubber marks on everything I attach the tripod to.
Graduated filters are also a mixed bag. Sometimes you don't have the option to bracket the shot (moving elements like crashing waves) and the range of exposure exceeds the dynamic range of the sensor. Sometimes, gear is to help with workflow because for professionals, time is money. Wasting too much time editing is money lost.
I mainly do macro and nature photography and whack the front of the lens on stuff all the time. I'd feel uncomfortable with the lens just being naked.
ND filters are useful (and necessary) for longer time exposures in daylight. One example: waterfalls with the misty, dreamy flow of water.
Agreed, that's why I said they're useful ("practically necessary", I believe my exact words were). It's graduated NDs that aren't.
Totally disagree about the Joby Tripod, had mine for years, never had an issue, dead easy to set up low or onto a fence post or tree branch, you couldn't do that with the other tripods you showed as they don't grip round stuff. Always had a UV filter on the end of my lenses as an amateur or 20yrs as a pro photographer, and they undoubtedly protect the end of the lens from general wear and tear. Unsurprisingly after 6 months in Afghanistan as a military photographer the only lens front which was damaged was on my Nikon 14-24, why, because you can't fit a UV filter to the front of that. For the minor loss of image quality a filter is easily worth its weight in gold and avoid lens damage. Camera bags are my particular gripe, they are all ugly, all look like camera bags, all way too expensive and leave no room for a jacket, your lunch, a flask of coffee - I tend to go for just modular cases and use a regular rucksack or man-bag.
All good points, but l have to disagree with the gimbal. The problem with gimbals, as you mentioned is people use them as a stabiliser. But really you need to use them properly and learn the follow functions. The way i shoot you just can't shoot handheld. In fact, i would say, handheld is over rated. Just buy a gimbal and learn it it properly.
Great video Dan. Love how you got the message acrss in an informed way and how you used logical reasoning. The section about filters was particularly good and backed up with impirical evidence. At least now, if people still want to use unnecessary filters or any of the other things you menitoned, they will be doing so out of choice and not out of fear of missing out!!!
Nah, adding that 40€ uv filter is worth more than trying to sell a lense with scratches on it. ppl have no idea how little they affect and want to push the price down. Better be save than sorry. Even on 60mp i dont see any difference in quallity or flares. Had a Tamron without one and it collected scratches like crazy.
Listen to this man. With the exception of the filters, I am guilty of everyone of these purchase mistakes. Great video with solid advice. There is no substitute for experience! Anyone want to buy my unused drone?
Got this video randomly recommended.
Did really like it, especially about most people not making use of the "Digital" Part of a Camera.
I suppose most people think that using a filter is more authentic than digital post processing, but I personally do not need to spend extra money and space to justify myself to others.
If it looks good, it looks good.
Subscribed.
have to disgree about the drone i am a drone pilot since 5 year doing amazing shot and amazing video but MAN when i got a camera for the fisrt time it was hard time nothing to compare ABSOLUTLY nothing comparable drone are WAY EASIER
Hey man, I just recently got into photography again, I bought a 17-55mm 2.8 to replace the kit lens my T7 came with, it came with a up filter, is there any reason I should take it off of is it not doing anything i need to worry about?
Dude, this was such an informative video. You definitely made great points & honestly discussed concerns I’ve had in the past about certain products, and now I’m super glad I didn’t buy these things. Thanks a ton!
WTF is a gorilla pod? That thing looks like a gimmicky piece of junk, I will take my $30 Zomie tripod over that thing. It is not the best tripod ever but it won't give from use and it's going on 4 years since I bought it and put a dent in a leg but no issues.
With drones you also have to know your local laws, they are banned where I photograph.
"Last year's model" - lol. It's 6 years at least for me xD. I'm using a 9 yo camera now and planning to upgrade to a 7 yo.
Been shooting and selling Travel and Landscape since 1974. Don’t waste your money unless it will make you money. Travel and or educate yourself first!
I use UV filters as "protection filters". I have tested them against no filter for image degradation, and only my Sony 200-600mm zoom shows any. Protection-wise, my best example is moving to a slightly different position for a landscape shot, slipping on a log, and dropping my camera lens-first onto that same log. This broke the hood, pushing the broken hood piece into and breaking the cheapo UV filter. The front element of my lens was saved. Would the lens cap have done the same? Most likely, but I didn't have it on. The $10 filter save me $2000. Again, I buy the cheapest filter I can. If I'm shooting into light I may remove the filter for the shot.
For a long time I thought an undercamera battery grip is good untill I realized I'm paying too much for functions I might not really need since vertical photos are rare if you're not doing events or weddings.
I guess if I had to start over...I'd have a sony a7IV, an 80 GB card, an extra battery, a tamron 28-75 mm and a 70-180mm one, a tripod and a backpack.
My lord, Gorillapods are so bad for cameras XD Like, maybe for lightweight action cams that will have negligible wear on them through weight stress, but normal cameras? Never. I got like 5 knockoff brand versions from Chinese Amazon stores that wanted me to "review" them. I only use these for microphones and action cams, which are decent uses when the tripods are $10-20 and not much of a thought to replace after 4-6 months of positioning wear. Any more than than $20? Nope, I'd rather gaff tape the device to something XD
Drones are just a cool/fun factor for me XD I have yet to use them professionally, despite owning a $2k drone and having part 107. Just the setup, scouting, making sure the weather is good for the shots you want, and then having maybe 2-3 hours across a few batteries ontop of needing to get the rest of your shoot done.... For any practical business use, I would be charging out the rear for the hassle and time it would take to make it worth it as someone who isn't a dedicated drone operator (I can operate proficiently and professionally, but it isn't something I live and breathe like those deep in that community).
Most of my purchase are either geeky love of the craft and gearhead inspired ones, or because I've identified a problem in my work and could not reasonably improve it through my own skill in a timely manner, if at all. And of course there is always the small imperfections in my works that I will see as the creator, knowing no one else outside of the professional world will ever notice them, but still want to address in some way or another XD But that is the rule of 80/20. 80% of quality is in just having something to shoot photo/video and pure skill and technique, while that last 20% is high end gear that exponentially climbs in price to chance ever diminishing returns.
See, I love a gorilla pod, BUT I don’t trust them with my cameras! They have never felt sturdy enough for me to trust them! HOWEVER I do like them for holding lighting panels or flash in awkward places! But yer, I’m never trusting my camera on one!
I'm not a beginner but one of my regrets was selling my Nikon D750 & downgrading to a mirrorless. I recommend to a beginner especially if you're on a budget is to buy an older DSLR. if you're in the Nikon world it gives cheap access to hundreds older Nikkor lenses. DSLRs picture quality didn't suddenly drop when mirrorless cameras come out!
Great Video . And agree learning new things about Your interests/hobby , keeps things exciting . Like Your suject matter for the video . A new fan .
I don’t own a “new “ camera , I have learned that just because it’s the latest, doesn’t mean it’s the greatest.
I have a couple of Nikon F bodies from the 60’s, a legendary F5 from the 90’s, and various other digital cameras that I got from EBay. The last new camera I bought was in 2012,and I just sold it because it was not being used.
Tripods and Camera Bags, but that can come under the "Category" of New Shiny Objects. :)
For certain types of photography, tripods are absolutely essential, though. The tool we all love to hate 😆
Agreed on all , i knew all of this when I was a beginner because iv watched probably a thousand hours worth of yt camera content 😂. I bought a gimbal tho but only because there was a scene in my short movie where we did a mini car chase and that really needed stability. The gimbal still serves me occasionally but I too prefer handheld , its just way less hassle and more organic.
True about the gorilla pod, unless you use it in the same or similar position over time, which is what I have done. 4 years and going strong. But if you fold it and open it daily, then forget it and get something else.
I like the content of your video. Thank you for sharing your experience and tips. I beleived in you. Big helps for me as begginer vlogger. Keep it up. I subscribed you already.
Great assessment as to when to buy and what to buy. "if your current gear holds you back, that might be the signal to upgrade" Maybe the next video is what holds you back, some folks would think that maybe a new sensor would make them look better or sharper, but how do they make sure it's not a skill issue?? Maybe if the same thing has held you back for over a year. IDK.
For subjects with movement the graduated ND can be irreplaceable...
What a great video. So glad I ran into your channel. Thanks for all the hard work and I look forward to watching you grow.
Appreciate it! Glad you're here!
Know thyself. My photography is really quite simple. I spend much time in the field taking handheld photos of botanical samples for use online. Typically I am in sunny dry a/o dusty areas. A good mid-range zoom and some cropping will get as close to macro as I need to get. I need a body of at east 12 mp, an IS lens with hood, and a midgrade UV filter which will get taken off if I am shooting anything of exceptional interest. I shoot aperture priority unless the wind is blowing in which case I switch to shutter priority. Touch screen is my convenience item, as well as a strong walking stick which frequently serves as an make-do monopod. I carry a cpl filter for shiny or wet surfaces. Tripod, monopod, other filters , extension rings, camera pack, etc., all remain at home.
I've bought my Ronin SC especially for hyperlapse footages. It can be used for stabilizing videos, but i also thoughts i can handle it with my own arms.
UV filter: spend thousands to get the lens with the very best optical quality money can buy, then ruin it by placing a cheap piece of glass in front of it 🤣. Graduated ND, been carrying one for 20+ years, never actually used it(I feel stupid now, please don't tell anybody). Drone: so many restrictions placed on their use that in many countries, you can't really use them at all anymore.
I've still got some ND grads left over from my film photography days, but I've NEVER used them with any of my digital cameras.
Just found your channel. You're a natural. I will stay subscribed if you come back to making videos.
Graduated Filters are advanced. Less about getting a single shot right in camera, more if you need them for long exposures and you need everything exposed properly. Difficult to bracket 2sec and above photos, let alone 10 to 30. Again, this is advanced and you can do some of it with simple ND filters. Graduated are advanced once you find the limitations that a single graduated filter can't do.
"Baking it in camera" is a good thing, not a bad thing. Proof: Fujifilm builds cameras with all kinds of film simulation to do it 'in camera," and this option is very very popular and I personally love it. By the way I also have Canon gear which "in camera baking" really isn't a thing - sadly. I personally want a camera that has all the editing tools my smartphone has so I can edit in camera as well. And while I'm whining, also I'd like EASY transfer of files to the internet such as a smartphone has. Let the "real" process much about in lightroom and photoshop, etc. while us humble amateurs get the job done faster and onto the net easier. In other words, I want smartphone technology in my cameras! Thought I'd edit this in, how about a video on the most under rated but excellent gear, my first vote goes to the monopod, not as good as a tripod but better than hand holding alone even with lenses and cameras with great IBIS and vibration compensation.
I was interested in your comments regarding the Joby Gorilla, I video a music event ever week from a static position in a Pub (bar). I'm actually playing in the band so I can't physically hold the camera or mount the camera on a tripod as it would be obtrusive and impracticable in a crowded bar. So I invested in the Gorilla Pod and I mount it on a metal column and then attach the camera a Zoom Q8 N with a battery backup so the camera mount and camera are slightly overhead it's unobtrusive. In this situation the Gorilla Pod works very well, as I can set my audio level on the camera and just let it record continueously until the end of the evening. I've had no issues with the Gorilla Pod falling apart and I've been recording this open -mic event apart from lockdown since 2019. But I must admit the Gorilla Pod is pricy and the the head mounting screw can loosen. Apart from that it works well for me.
I say the worst mistake to avoid are lens rentals. They are just crazy expensive. Often you pay 10% of MSRP for a single day and easily 20% if you need the thing for a few days. That is just crazy. Also, third party lenses are hardly available as rentals. At these prices, you can buy and resell the gear. Rentals only make sense in very niche cases.
I born at 3800 meters above sea level, (12,500 ft) and shoot film. I have never seen the need to shoot with UV filters, no color shifts or anything related. If anything if they are cheap ones they degrade image quality in both digital and film.
Very valid points, it's really refreshing to see someone actually making truthful RUclips content as.opposed to trying to please Sony's marketing department or trying to sell you their shitty luts.
I can site one time in my photography career, where a UV filter did me a solid and saved my bacon 🥓 for realizes. I was hired to film the finish line of one of those "Fun Mud runs" and every single person would cross the finish line and give a kick towards me and thus flinging a huge mud clot right down the barrel of my lens. I had to swap out and clean that muddy thing over a dozen times that day. (Super fun gig, though)
I just ordered a Nikon D90 to prove to myself that if you're good, you're good no matter what the gear. We'll see. It set me back $149.
I have a gymbol.
I have not used it since I began using a simple neck strap and a lengthy lens. Neither lens nor camera have stabilisation but the results are still smooth due to the size of the triangle of support I make.
It is so much easier to control the direction. Hands are on the lens for focus. I limit my shooting to 10 second bursts to describe the scene.
It’s a joy.
Yes, buying UV Filters is putting a 20$ glass in front of a 3000$ lens, and then expect the same quality of the picture ;)
I once put a UV filter on a lens for protection. After that I threw my lens from a 12 story high building. Can not say that the UV filter worked.
I wouldn't put anything heavier than a gopro or phone on a gorilla pod. But for those it's okay.
Gear I regret buying? A ball head for the tripod; clumsy to use compared to a good tilt/pan or gimbal head and always seems to want to flop over.
I don't believe you can compete in the today's wedding videography field absent a drone. It's basically an expectation anymore.
soooooo interesting and well explained! THANK YOU
I don’t use the gorillapod for my camera, I use it as a secondary lighting stand and it’s perfect for that. I can get backlights and background illumination set up in seconds without lugging another full size light stand around. Definitely not a good camera tripod.
If you buy a better quality lenses, most of them are nano coated anyway so you do not need to use UV filters that is just a complete waste of time and actually decreases the quality of your images. I also believe that moisture gets checked between the UV filter and the front of the lens, creating a gap which can trap moisture and dirt. Save my advice is don't use them and I am a professional photographer in Australia. I also teach Photography as well and there are some really cool gadgets and there are some really terrible gadgets that you just simply do not need. I don't think the 50% editing 50% capture is probably right but that's okay that's just a number but I definitely agree with you that you don't need to be obsessed with getting the perfect photo. I see guys that sit there for 15 minutes lining up the most perfect shot and for me that missed the moment the moment probably has gone. I have to disagree with you on the graduated filters. I've got a couple of them but I live in Australia and the sunlight here is dam harsh and if you want to sit there and bracket five photos for one shot and then hopefully they all lineup in editing and they are perfectly exposed on the hope that that one image will work. Good luck with that I'm not into that and there are some really good graduated filters that work really well and I just think it's about buying the right brand of filter and knowing how to use it
on the Drone part ...
i startet "photography/Videography" with the drone :D and this motivate me to buy an Camera and learn the Camera and match Camera and Drone footage together.
Thanks for those advices
ND filters hep in digital photography. specially if ur files has low Dynamic range to recover shadows at highlights.
Yeah but I prefer having UV filter on, ever since my dog licked the glass of my gorgeous new expensive lens.
I had a very similar discussion with my brother about drones. I love them and will always have a passion for them…but they are in a weird space right now and it just seems like a pain to utilize one as much as I would want on various trips! Great video
have to disagree with the gimbal, simply because where i work, we often had to hire people with little skill in steady hand department , so gimbal is a shortcut for them to make "acceptable" production result, yes we may do mediocre video but when your main concern is making a lot of "ok" video because of demands then gimbal is very important
Gonna disagree on the UV filter. A QUALITY filter offers a lot of upside and little downside.
I believe you said this in a manner but I believe the point is that the latest features don't help much if you did not already know how to maximize results with the old model that lacked those features. Auto everything still fails to fix faults in "f/8 and be there". Sometimes I wonder if my money spent on a new camera might have been better spent on a trip to somewhere worth shooting.
UV filter is a must. First - you don't need a lens caps ever again, second - can't scratch lens with them, they help with weather sealing, last but not least they are way cheaper to replace than the lens, all with barely none IQ degradation. You need to either buy a crappy UV or pixelpeep like a hardcore to see anything to see any.
I bought the gorillapod tripod for my cameras and it was a waste of money. One day I saw it sitting on the shelf and decided to mount my webcam on it for mobile conference calls. Best product ever for very light webcams.
Gear is only good to alleviate issues. Not make you better. At some point, buying a class would help more
gear you should avoid, is getting any accessories, lenses, tripod, filters, flash... dont even bother all you need in photography is the camera and whatever lens and some memory card dont let influencer tells you to buy any other gear.
Gorilla pods are a great concept but they definitely need work on the design and follow through.
The slidder... I guess it is less now but it was the gear to have, that is now sitting at home doing nothing! Great you're doing this, because as you say not only the companies but the youtuber as well are good to make us believe our gear is no longer relevant!!!
No doubt graduated nd filters are the most useless and over-hyped (and expensive) photo gear. I know this because I bought into them after watching videos and ads and ended up with a couple Lee and a set of aHitech grads and can honestly say they have ruined far more shots than helped. In fact I’m not sure I have one decent picture where I’ve used them.
Great info. I have also been saying the same to new photographers. Uv is nothing more than an up sell buy the sales man. Uv was needed in film day, but today, with digital cameras, it is already it. Clad to someone talk about this
Hey disclaimer for any beginners entering this world and have just stumbled across it: YOU DO NOT NEED A GIMBAL. I've been making films for three years now and I'm still terrified of them. Master the necessity of handheld and once you understand every reason to use that technique, do it 100 times more and repurpose those ideas until you know it back to front. Only then, once you've developed a fierce understanding of the consideration of framing, visual narrative and narration, lighting, blocking, and acting, you can even begin to try out a gimbal. I personally don't like them too much anyway, they feel far too streamlined and studio-driven for my taste. I prefer raw, unfiltered, undiluted handheld as it allows the audience to develop a direct connection and relationship with the characters and environment they are getting to know.
And if you don't like either, just stick to tripod/still shooting.