I wish I had access to your videos when I was in college in the ‘90. I was an award winning photojournalist for about a decade after I graduated… you’re doing your best to make people understand that photography is all about people… and light. The better you understand your subjects, the better the photographer you will be!
Thank you Peter for reminding me what it is all about!! It's about the image, the right light and making the person look good and feel good about the image!!!
Your story is a great reminder of two points. 1. There is no substitute for doing the work (practice practice practice) 2. Desire to improve / learn your craft is way more important than talent, or gear.
That is not rant, that's professionnal teaching. With your teachings, I have improve my relationship with my models (ordinary people) by 100% & the quality of my pictures. Thank you for that 🙏
Very well expressed, Peter. The biggest challenge in art is having something personal/original to say. All of the gear in the world won't substitute for the absence of a personal original voice.
Peter another entertaining video, it was great to see some of your early work and confirm you have worked hard to get where you are today. Enjoy the last of the season Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Latest podcast was great all the way to the end. Was a good last race we just have to wait just over 100 days now till the next one.@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
How many wise word I have heard in this video. Practise makes perfect. But still, done is better than perfect. I'm not trying to take the greatest picture in the world, I'm trying to beat my earlier self. From time to time I take a look at the photos I took 10-20 years ago, and I see a huge difference. And I'm still learning the ropes. Cheers from Bashkortostan
Your positive attitude and genuine interest in encouraging rather than critiquing is a breath of fresh air. I sometimes feel people try to find something wrong to bolster themselves and their high-brow attitude towards what they think is great photography instead of helping someone new. I have been a photographer both professional and amateur for about 24 years (blimey that scared me) and I have learnt a lot from the way you approach the subject and the elements you add to your pictures to make them the best you can produce (they are stunning - just saying) so thank you for all you do
Really good advice. It's not about the gear it's about the images. You don't see any well known photographer books about what gear or setting they used. It's about the images what year it is, the subject and locations. Oh yes everyone starts somewhere. I don't like putting other people's work down. But if I like something I will tell them I like it. People also have to remember that not everyone is going to like your work! If people do it's a bonus. But you have to like what you do and always find ways to improve and say I do this next time or I will try it this way next time. Excellent video Peter!!
This man is MY INSPIRATION! I have heard people say some of the worst things. I like that you don’t think with a critical eye. You just don’t know how much you have inspired me.
"It's not the gear it's the photographer" is something I still need to learn in a way. Over the last 6 years I have been shooting at a higher level I have definitely had an upgrade in my gear, and I have taken some great photos with it. But I do know that, with the knowledge I have now I could take out my first DSLR and kit lens and still take a great photo. That being said, I also need to get behind the camera more and shoot and really try to connect with models. One thing that I hope will help is having an actual studio. I mostly shoot outside and having a place that I can work in any time of day, regardless of the weather shoudl get me behind the camera more. But I am also scared sh*tless about opening a studio because I am afraid of failure. But I feel like it is something I need to do, to experience. And if I fail I will take that knowledge and apply it to future endeavors. And I want to say thank you, Peter, for all your videos. Especially these ones that that have a more intimate feel. They are a great boost and guide for when I am feeling a little lost. :)
Peter, thank you so much for doing all of these videos. I once read an interview with HCB ,he was asked do you need a Leica to take great photos. He replied no I remember seeing a set of portraits by Cecil Beaton of Marilyn Monroe , they were some of the best portraits I have ever seen and they were taken on a box Brownie .A true story he said. You are up there with the best as well as your beatiful models .Regards to you all from an old guy in England. Jake.
Excellent video and so well stated. There is a saying to the effect that "comparison is the thief of joy". If we spent more time getting experience behind the camera or just in front of our subject we would have less far time to worry about what others think or how we measure up. Thanks for sharing!
I'm one of those photographers moving away from various "-scapes" to shooting people. Two of my challenges will be working with humans and intentionally manipulating light rather than working with what nature gives me. I'm a late starter in so far as serious photography goes and I'm not sure what awaits me business-wise (if that is even possible). Thanks for another great video rant Peter. I've followed you for a while now and always learn something. Cheers.
Peter, you have no idea how much inspiration you are to me. i often think about giving up. I watch your videos and find inspiration when I am not feeling creative but more importantly you keep me going when I think of quitting. Thank you so very very much. If you ever find your way to Lodi, Ca...bring Ra Ra and Bec!!! I will supply the wine!!
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer ahhha no sir Lodi California. Like the credence Clearwater revival song Stuck in Lodi!! We have the best wine in California.
Lean and clean explanation. This is what people need instead of "you need ISO 64.000 BS, Game Changing clickbait and nitpicking alike. You share the wealth of lightning knowledge which is so much more important. Thanks for sharing and greetings form the land of Max Verstappen ;-)
I was lucky enough to spend some time with the set photographer on the original Lord Of The Rings shoot in New Zealand. I briefly assisted the wonderful Pierre Vinet as he photographed cast for the film posters in a studio setting as well as on set. The thing I remember wasn't his equipment or settings, but the rapport and respect he had with the cast and the way they responded to his encouragement.
This was a great video you made Peter and right on the mark on everything you said. And also, think, all those "photographers" in the web world that are judging other photographers work might not have ever taken a decent image themself :)
Many thanks for this video and for letting us know more about your beginnings in photography. The words I like the most are: “… theses pictures meant a lot to me…” because they are directly related to building one’s style. For me, to receive negative comments to my photographs or to be ignored is not a problem; they are from me to me. Making money from photography doesn’t worry me, I have a primary job therefore I don’t have the pressure to produce photographs for others. Regarding equipment, I don’t consider it the goal but a means; I wish, in the past, I had have the camera/lens I am using at this moment. Take good care of yourself, so that we can continue to see you in these videos.
Great video , as usual. Perfect advice. I have seen people who fall perfectly into the category of "all the gear and no idea" wondering why, after copying someone else's settings, they can;t get a good image.
When I first started doing photography the photos I admired were the ones I saw in magazines by current photographers and those I saw in books about photography masters. I didn't worry about comparing my photography to theirs. There was no comparison. I just loved doing photography. But, looking at those photographs and reading about those photographers was how I learned to be a photographer. That and just going out and doing photography. I hope that young new photographers will appreciate having a site like yours, Peter, from which to learn photography. I'm still learning, btw.
At last i've discovered a photography channel and photographer where someone considers the human aspects to image capture. Thank goodness there isnt any techno dribbling but instead heaps of understanding of the creative thinking and result. As they say 'its not what you've got, but how you use it'. Sound and solid advice....Cheers Mr Coulson
This is one of the most useful photography videos on youtube. It took me thousands of hours to learn most of the truths you listed and Im still pretty awful. Your level of no BS honesty is appreciated.
Great video Peter, It's such a refreshing change to see people be honest about their start in the profession and you are only the second person I've ever seen to critique your own work.
This is great advice ,and it doesn't just apply to photography. If you think the science and the gear are going to make you better at anything you're doing, you're taking the wrong approach. None of these things can make up for the difference in skill. And developing any skill takes time and patience.
I love your work It is real life and most of what i see is way better than any magazine photos. Just love your style everybody has a style or trying to develop a style. I have heard a few great photographers say the best rule in photography is to break every one of them or put another way there are no rules in creativity.
Hey @PeterCoulson - love your collaboration with @Beck! HOWEVER: pls do keep publishing your camera settings with your photos… even if it does not magically help the photographer and the muse mind-meld, it does help set the stage.
Thanks, but I think it's more important for you as a photographer to learn the settings that work best for your look not the settings that works for me
Thanks Peter, so much wisdom shared here. Life is about reward for effort, using passion in your execution and being open to learn. Your work is extraordinary, watching you work with a model, and working with lighting is mesmerising
Peter, I enjoy your videos because of the relaxed way you interact with the models. You get them involved in the process so they give the emotion you are looking for and are better a their profession. Your ability to see the nuances in light is amazing. I’ve tried to do a better job of looking at the light when I’m taking pictures.
Hi Peter. Just a quick note to say thanks for the inspiration. I left the NYC workshop a couple months back inspired to find my new look. Great experience and this video reminded me that the random stuff I'm exploring now will eventually lead to something more later. Cheers!
Thanks Peter! It’s so good to revisit this topic which you often reference as it is! The gear I use is not considered industry “standard” and I don’t care, it suits me for what I have done and move towards as I learn. Peter Lindbergh is also a hero of mine and so that was an extra buzz that you had a book of his for reference! So much of your advice and thoughts around giving power to the model to help you both achieve the shot is what I use with the people I have in my images. Even during my broad range of “jobs” like footy teams or a corporate Xmas party …when I do their individual portraits, I treat it for that less than a minute or two max, as an opportunity to draw them out and as if it’s a fine art sitting….truly appreciate what you do, the time it takes and the feedback you give … cheers 🙏🏼
Lindbergh is such a good example to use to make the point you do. He is an absolute master, however I don't personally get moved by his work. Then I started noticing, every woman who I spoke to, from assistants to MUA's to clients all LOVED his work. I began to realise, he sees something I don't and women in particular react to that. He makes women beautiful to women, he's in tune with how they see themselves and how they would like to be seen. He was well known for being a models favourite, someone who they loved working with and who they loved being shot by. He's just more in tune than I ever was. He sees deeper. That's the mark of a master. None of that has anything to do with gear. If he were alive, he could take a better picture on an iphone than 99% of us. But those skills were nurtured, his taste and instinct honed. Everyone needs a place to start and it's really important that it's without judgement. That comes later.
I have been trying to get more people to photograph. i believe I do a good job of realistically capturing them however I have posted some of my work with an open invitation to add to my and there portfolio and crickets none jumping in. @@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
This is precisely why I hold you in such hard regard. We look at the desired result over the methods and gear. There are obviously differences between strobe / continuous and Hasselblad vs Canon / Nikon / Sony / etc... it's knowing the basics and most importantly getting the interaction with the subject to get the eyes and expressions.... I'd gladly get beaten by you whilst using your Hasselblad vs you with a Polaroid :-)
Yeah, I started my photography journey in the 60's and was and have always been an amateur. I shoot for the fun of it and to challenge myself to be better than I was last week. Mostly I shoot sports but in the last 10-12 years I've been fascinated by portraiture which brought me to Peter Coulson. I searched around many photography websites until I found you and Inspire. You were one of the few tog's that minimized the tech and taught expressions that can only emerge on the face when you have a feeling inside and this actually works and the difference is a breakthrough in photo quality. Thanks for being my mentor! I think I will join Inspire again
Hello Pete, So nicely said. It is a lost art almost to be able to communicate with model. Plus it dose make for a better work environment. We are all told gear dose not matter, which I agree to some extent. But find the kit that you are happy with not fighting with dose help a bit.
Love this. I've been in groups where it was all about the gear not the use of light and the posing. When I suggested using the pop up flash on the camera to get just enough of a pop of light on the face everybody just went crazy. I'm all about using whatever you have at that moment. It's about the moment.
you are so right that the 'numbers' is the easy part. even though a lot of PWAC (people with a camera) dont know that. ive been shooting probably as long as you (1976?) and i learned all of that technical stuff by 1978 (old manual focus/manual settings/manual flash camera) and while i still know it and use it, i have such a difficult time finding anyone to stand in front of my camera besides myself. i loved working with your models in Chicago in 22 but in the end, i still dont have my own style. i dont know what i need to do to find my own style, that isnt a derivative of someone elses... i dont see this as a rant, but a candid heart to heart
All true Peter but a lot of us are gear heads and it is fun to talk about the gear. It is like car enthusiasts love to talk about cars. Fishermen love to talk not only about the fish they catch but also about what gear they use, even though the goal is to catch the fish. The process is half the fun!!
Love your "daily criticism" comment, a double edged sward there.When I started I was doing an engineering apprenticeship, great to provide the funds for film and processing, bad because I could never afford the switch to full time photographer. So after joining a local group run by a proper tutor, I had the chance to photograph models, use his darkroom and get some proper advice on where to go next. Today I have returned full time to photography, deciding on what I like and what I think is a terrible photo. I wish I had a digital camera back in the 80's but then I wouldn't have learnt to be slow, consider the lighting, composition, etc., and of course the confidence you don't have with models as a spotty teenager XD
It’s humbling to hear the elite give newcomers a virtual hug and nudge in the right direction. There’s a perceived gap between the higher echelon professionals and us mere mortals, and whilst the gap does include skill and experience, Peter continues to show the human side is all equal. Love the technical output, but love listening to the person just as much. Respect.
Another one, great, edifying video from you Peter. Long time ago, my then girlfriend (also my model in learning days, film days) asked me: "What is more important to you, idea or technique?" I answered: "both, because I can't achieve my idea without technique". Basically, her question was fundamental, an you just gave answer. Back then I was killing myself studding reflections in models eyes, or on glossy surfaces trying to figure out how some photo was taken, or trying to recreate some pictures from Peter Lindberg or Helmut Newton. Of course, you have to have technique, and some equipment, but essence is in you, and your idea and persistence to achieve what you are after...
Always nice to hear you talk about your progression. Equally nice to see your work of course. I find I’m doing more video these days, documentary stuff, with some stills, and learning editing along the way. It’s hard, but interesting, and for an old guy, rewarding to see the slow but continuing progress. Some one step forward and two back, but one advantage of being older is that is no longer devastating. Expected. Engage first gear and proceed again. No money involved but the participants are actually thrilled. That’s encouraging, and I’m not even buying new gear! Exploring how capable the gear I have actually is can be almost as much fun as new gear. Astounding for an Engineer, but ok. As always, looking forward to your next lesson. All the best to you and ladies we have come to enjoy seeing.
Great content, as always. You have had a huge impact on my photography, primarily in the way that you interact with models, but also in your techniques. I listened to a 2-part podcast in which you were the guest. I believe it was from a couple of years ago. It was at the time when the Covid lockdowns were ending. You talked about how you adjusted your business to compensate. You said that you had even tried shooting through FaceTime just to experiment. I’ve wanted to see someone of your talent do a shoot with an app called Clos. Even with its limitations, I know that you could produce incredible results. Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge with us. It’s inspiring and immeasurably valuable.
Peter, I hinted at my thoughts on your creative nature once before; your passionate about your work and I know it’s can be taken the wrong way “Your a perfectionist” ensuring your idea of perfection is met. So in a nut shell if you assume your tools are the key to your outcomes, they are not ‘It’s your artistic temperament’. I don’t like photoshopped work at all, and what I do like is persistence. One day we will and have a wonderful discussion “both being Melbourne”. Sincerest congratulations on your extraordinary work. Regards Roland
I was the Year Book Photography in High School , My grade 12 yearbook is kinda my early portfolio , I took many pictures and also processed the film/prints B&W , as it was 100% B&W back then. We also were the first team to include a book cover photo of the school which I took. A wrap around photo. I have always loved B&W and now getting back to it more with Digital. Watching these RUclipss gives me inspiration which helps alot. Many of the the things you talk about I have learned thru 1 day courses similar to your workshops (I guess) but in Toronto. So it is cool to watch these as they are sometimes so close to how I take pictures. I used Kodak Tri-X 400 , and have found Lightroom/C1 profiles to create that look. Also Nikon Z7ii I have B&W profiles so camera sees in B&W, but I think I need to use Color for taking images and then convert in Post. Sorry for the long post. Thank you.
To folks that ask about camera settings I would reply "if you look at a painting in an art gallery are you wondering whether the artist used sable, hog's hair or synthetic brushes?" I often think that some photographers hope that if they set the flash in the same position at the same power they will realise the same image. I blame a lot of it on the photographic press. They focus on gear more than images because their revenue comes in ad revenue from camera and lighting manufacturers. There's no money in writing about images, several magazines that did went out of business. So we get gear, gear, gear. Buy this and your pictures will be like one of our ambassadors. I wish!
It's like seeing a hill and climbing it, looking back and thinking "gee, I'm pretty high!". Then you turn towards the trail and dang, there's another hill! You climb that, look back and: Oh wow! I'm much higher! But there's another hill. At some point you start to think how silly it was to think you were so high when you weren't but after the third hill or so - you really were pretty high (or your work was really good, but your tastes change and your current work is just a bit better - it doesn't really devalue your previous work). There may come a time where there is one more hill to climb but for any number of reasons you won't/can't go any further. But I hope one would encourage others to keep climbing. There is a lot of value in helping someone else do good work while you're happy at where you're at.
Great video! I agree with with tecnical. its so toxic. earlier days i did a shot where it wow-ed many but when i told that it was taken with certain cheap lens they started changing their prespective that its no longer great. Over time i ignore those and its getting overwhelming silly.
Love the video peter. Fashion used to be my goal. I still shoot some models for fun sometimes but there is no fashion industry anymore so its not a goal anymore. The people at the top dont get payed to shoot fashion, even vogue has photographers paying for everything including the models and mua and so on, just for "the honor" to get published. It's impossible to buy food from model photography so i try to do as little as possible of it. I try to shoot things that allow me to buy food. I only ever use one camera and one lens for all the images i make. I only own one camera and lens. One thing has not changed. Spending way more time in post than actually shooting, it depends on the people i shoot but overal for sure many times more time in post than shooting, so shooting practice is limited. But both my clients and the rare model shoot i do love the work i do in Photoshop. One the changes i been thinking about lately is not letting the models pick the images. It's a tough one. But i feel models often don't pick the best images. I been trying to figure what they pick their images based on. You talked about this before but i think its brutal to do like you said and i only pick one image per outfit and that's all they get.
I still let models pick images so it gives me an idea of what they do or don't like about themselves but a lot of the time the photo they pick isn't the one I will end up using
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer from what I seen. when I let the models pick the images. They very often go for neutral face images without emotion. And I am more likely going to pick the smiling ones. Like what from your experience do they often look at that makes them pick one image over the other? Because so far the neutral face has been the most common recurring thing by far that I seen. My last 2 shoots, both times I agreed on about 50% of their liked images and 50% of the time I liked a different image of that outfit more.
All of This!!!! Yea the facebook part I have to be honest, I don't get into a lot of camera clubs because everything is a competition with "people". That one person always downs the other thus you can't find anything about them and they smack talk others who have good shots. "CC" s not even a "cc". I tell people all the time, "Stop asking permission for people to criticize your work! YOU are the photographer for THAT photo not others. Anyone telling you what to do with your photo is their vision not yours". I'd tell them to compare their work toe the real industry photos. I avoid camera clubs and their camera club talk and I focus on actual industry work like submitting to agents. I'm working products right now and I'm comparing to other places like Nieman Marcus and so on. People today don't know and/or has forgotten what photography is. I would join your group but I don't shoot people much because I'm sick of the fake wannabe models and babysitting them lol
Now there’s a life lesson, that with a little bit of imagination is applicable in every field: Try to make your subject look amazing. (maybe exchange ‘look’ for ‘be’, but that’s all)
Seems to me like many are chasing for a status rather than a good result. I think the older you get the more you ask the question, do I enjoy what I am doing? Too few seem to and too many want to compete. Street (private) and corporate event (commercial) are my thing and you learn early on no own can compete with the circumstance and composition you deliver. They are not there, I am! I guess the same is with the models. My only experience on that is family and friends and I treat it pretty much like street. Learn their face muscles, avoid facial transitions, get in close. As you say the science of photography is just numbers; the art of photography is practice and feel what you are doing. If that was a rant, then I like your rants. Suitably calm for a mature audience. A.,
I wish I had access to your videos when I was in college in the ‘90. I was an award winning photojournalist for about a decade after I graduated… you’re doing your best to make people understand that photography is all about people… and light. The better you understand your subjects, the better the photographer you will be!
So true
Love love love these chats
Thank you Peter for reminding me what it is all about!! It's about the image, the right light and making the person look good and feel good about the image!!!
I love the platform you created for newbies to share their work and feel safe to not be “ripped a new one”!
I appreciate that! thanks
Absolutely love this and love the videos were Peter is talking to us candidly - it feels like talking to a wise, experienced, and kind friend
Wow thank you
Your story is a great reminder of two points. 1. There is no substitute for doing the work (practice practice practice) 2. Desire to improve / learn your craft is way more important than talent, or gear.
Yes exactly, always need to keep practicing
That is not rant, that's professionnal teaching. With your teachings, I have improve my relationship with my models (ordinary people) by 100% & the quality of my pictures. Thank you for that 🙏
Thanks for watching
Very well expressed, Peter. The biggest challenge in art is having something personal/original to say. All of the gear in the world won't substitute for the absence of a personal original voice.
Peter another entertaining video, it was great to see some of your early work and confirm you have worked hard to get where you are today. Enjoy the last of the season Abu Dhabi this weekend.
Thanks, yes I can't wait
Latest podcast was great all the way to the end. Was a good last race we just have to wait just over 100 days now till the next one.@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
❤ very well said Peter. Everyone is looking for a shortcut, but there isn’t one worth taking. Just put the work in. Nothing else matters.
Yes thanks 😊
Solid Peter...Based. I love your honesty and insight. Refreshing in this industry.
Thanks glad you enjoyed it
Your channel and your work are a remarkable gift to all photographers. Thank you!
Wow, thank you so much
HAPPY THANKSGIVING to THE best photographer on the whole entire Innerwebs!!!
Thank you
How many wise word I have heard in this video. Practise makes perfect. But still, done is better than perfect. I'm not trying to take the greatest picture in the world, I'm trying to beat my earlier self. From time to time I take a look at the photos I took 10-20 years ago, and I see a huge difference. And I'm still learning the ropes.
Cheers from Bashkortostan
Thank you
Your positive attitude and genuine interest in encouraging rather than critiquing is a breath of fresh air. I sometimes feel people try to find something wrong to bolster themselves and their high-brow attitude towards what they think is great photography instead of helping someone new.
I have been a photographer both professional and amateur for about 24 years (blimey that scared me) and I have learnt a lot from the way you approach the subject and the elements you add to your pictures to make them the best you can produce (they are stunning - just saying) so thank you for all you do
Thank you so much Daniel
Really good advice. It's not about the gear it's about the images. You don't see any well known photographer books about what gear or setting they used. It's about the images what year it is, the subject and locations.
Oh yes everyone starts somewhere. I don't like putting other people's work down. But if I like something I will tell them I like it.
People also have to remember that not everyone is going to like your work! If people do it's a bonus. But you have to like what you do and always find ways to improve and say I do this next time or I will try it this way next time.
Excellent video Peter!!
Absolutely agree, thanks heaps
The gentle reminder i needed. Gotta keep going and focus on what’s important.
This man is MY INSPIRATION! I have heard people say some of the worst things. I like that you don’t think with a critical eye. You just don’t know how much you have inspired me.
Thank you, "art" it's not about my eye it's about your eye
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer I adore you!
As long as i join your video and works as much i love your mindset, cause its really close to my thoughts! Thank you for this kind of video !
You're so welcome!
Thank you ! The mindset of art connects to a completly differen world ! @@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
"It's not the gear it's the photographer" is something I still need to learn in a way. Over the last 6 years I have been shooting at a higher level I have definitely had an upgrade in my gear, and I have taken some great photos with it. But I do know that, with the knowledge I have now I could take out my first DSLR and kit lens and still take a great photo. That being said, I also need to get behind the camera more and shoot and really try to connect with models. One thing that I hope will help is having an actual studio. I mostly shoot outside and having a place that I can work in any time of day, regardless of the weather shoudl get me behind the camera more. But I am also scared sh*tless about opening a studio because I am afraid of failure. But I feel like it is something I need to do, to experience. And if I fail I will take that knowledge and apply it to future endeavors.
And I want to say thank you, Peter, for all your videos. Especially these ones that that have a more intimate feel. They are a great boost and guide for when I am feeling a little lost. :)
Thanks so much Christopher
Peter, thank you so much for doing all of these videos. I once read an interview with HCB ,he was asked do you need a Leica to take great photos. He replied no I remember seeing a set of portraits by Cecil Beaton of Marilyn Monroe , they were some of the best portraits I have ever seen and they were taken on a box Brownie .A true story he said. You are up there with the best as well as your beatiful models .Regards to you all from an old guy in England. Jake.
Thanks so much Jake
Excellent video and so well stated. There is a saying to the effect that "comparison is the thief of joy". If we spent more time getting experience behind the camera or just in front of our subject we would have less far time to worry about what others think or how we measure up. Thanks for sharing!
Love that thanks
Great photos Peter, but more importantly you have a great approach with no bullish*t advice and kindness. Thanks mate.
Glad you enjoyed it
I'm one of those photographers moving away from various "-scapes" to shooting people. Two of my challenges will be working with humans and intentionally manipulating light rather than working with what nature gives me. I'm a late starter in so far as serious photography goes and I'm not sure what awaits me business-wise (if that is even possible). Thanks for another great video rant Peter. I've followed you for a while now and always learn something. Cheers.
Thanks heaps
Particularly enjoy these types of videos. Its a good grounding and I find it helpful to see the progression of your work. Thanks for sharing.
Thank you, more to come
Peter, you have no idea how much inspiration you are to me. i often think about giving up. I watch your videos and find inspiration when I am not feeling creative but more importantly you keep me going when I think of quitting. Thank you so very very much. If you ever find your way to Lodi, Ca...bring Ra Ra and Bec!!! I will supply the wine!!
Wow, thank you, Lodi london? every year
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer ahhha no sir Lodi California. Like the credence Clearwater revival song Stuck in Lodi!! We have the best wine in California.
Lean and clean explanation.
This is what people need instead of "you need ISO 64.000 BS, Game Changing clickbait and nitpicking alike.
You share the wealth of lightning knowledge which is so much more important.
Thanks for sharing and greetings form the land of Max Verstappen ;-)
Well said!
I was lucky enough to spend some time with the set photographer on the original Lord Of The Rings shoot in New Zealand.
I briefly assisted the wonderful Pierre Vinet as he photographed cast for the film posters in a studio setting as well as on set.
The thing I remember wasn't his equipment or settings, but the rapport and respect he had with the cast and the way they responded to his encouragement.
its all about the subject and the light
This was a great video you made Peter and right on the mark on everything you said. And also, think, all those "photographers" in the web world that are judging other photographers work might not have ever taken a decent image themself :)
Thank you
Love our little chats, thank you. Inspired to spend more time with my Mamiya and Canon in hand. And a bonus F1 reference. Well done.
Great to hear, thanks
Many thanks for this video and for letting us know more about your beginnings in photography.
The words I like the most are: “… theses pictures meant a lot to me…” because they are directly related to building one’s style.
For me, to receive negative comments to my photographs or to be ignored is not a problem; they are from me to me. Making money from photography doesn’t worry me, I have a primary job therefore I don’t have the pressure to produce photographs for others. Regarding equipment, I don’t consider it the goal but a means; I wish, in the past, I had have the camera/lens I am using at this moment.
Take good care of yourself, so that we can continue to see you in these videos.
Great video , as usual. Perfect advice. I have seen people who fall perfectly into the category of "all the gear and no idea" wondering why, after copying someone else's settings, they can;t get a good image.
Right on!
When I first started doing photography the photos I admired were the ones I saw in magazines by current photographers and those I saw in books about photography masters. I didn't worry about comparing my photography to theirs. There was no comparison. I just loved doing photography. But, looking at those photographs and reading about those photographers was how I learned to be a photographer. That and just going out and doing photography. I hope that young new photographers will appreciate having a site like yours, Peter, from which to learn photography. I'm still learning, btw.
Thank you, so am I
At last i've discovered a photography channel and photographer where someone considers the human aspects to image capture. Thank goodness there isnt any techno dribbling but instead heaps of understanding of the creative thinking and result. As they say 'its not what you've got, but how you use it'.
Sound and solid advice....Cheers Mr Coulson
Thanks heaps Nick
This is one of the most useful photography videos on youtube. It took me thousands of hours to learn most of the truths you listed and Im still pretty awful. Your level of no BS honesty is appreciated.
Wow, thanks!
Thank you Peter for sharing your feelings. You are my GURU. I love you, man!
Wow, thank you so much
To get in the pantheon of fashion art photography greats like Peter Lindbergh -- may he RIP 🙏 just different styles and quite a feat!
Wow thank you
Great video Peter, It's such a refreshing change to see people be honest about their start in the profession and you are only the second person I've ever seen to critique your own work.
Much appreciated
This is great advice ,and it doesn't just apply to photography. If you think the science and the gear are going to make you better at anything you're doing, you're taking the wrong approach. None of these things can make up for the difference in skill. And developing any skill takes time and patience.
I love your work It is real life and most of what i see is way better than any magazine photos. Just love your style everybody has a style or trying to develop a style. I have heard a few great photographers say the best rule in photography is to break every one of them or put another way there are no rules in creativity.
Thanks so much 😊 and no rules in art
Hey @PeterCoulson - love your collaboration with @Beck! HOWEVER: pls do keep publishing your camera settings with your photos… even if it does not magically help the photographer and the muse mind-meld, it does help set the stage.
Thanks, but I think it's more important for you as a photographer to learn the settings that work best for your look not the settings that works for me
This is fabulous and awesome, Peter. You are preaching to the choir, at least in my case.
Thanks
Thanks Peter, so much wisdom shared here. Life is about reward for effort, using passion in your execution and being open to learn. Your work is extraordinary, watching you work with a model, and working with lighting is mesmerising
Thanks so nuch
I needed to see this video today, I thank you..
I'm glad it was helpful
Peter, I enjoy your videos because of the relaxed way you interact with the models. You get them involved in the process so they give the emotion you are looking for and are better a their profession. Your ability to see the nuances in light is amazing. I’ve tried to do a better job of looking at the light when I’m taking pictures.
Glad you like them!
Peter Lindbergh definitely show through in your current style. That and some Herb Ritts.
Thanks so much
Hi Peter. Just a quick note to say thanks for the inspiration. I left the NYC workshop a couple months back inspired to find my new look. Great experience and this video reminded me that the random stuff I'm exploring now will eventually lead to something more later. Cheers!
Fantastic! keep going in that direction
Thanks Peter! It’s so good to revisit this topic which you often reference as it is! The gear I use is not considered industry “standard” and I don’t care, it suits me for what I have done and move towards as I learn. Peter Lindbergh is also a hero of mine and so that was an extra buzz that you had a book of his for reference! So much of your advice and thoughts around giving power to the model to help you both achieve the shot is what I use with the people I have in my images. Even during my broad range of “jobs” like footy teams or a corporate Xmas party …when I do their individual portraits, I treat it for that less than a minute or two max, as an opportunity to draw them out and as if it’s a fine art sitting….truly appreciate what you do, the time it takes and the feedback you give … cheers 🙏🏼
Thanks
Lindbergh is such a good example to use to make the point you do. He is an absolute master, however I don't personally get moved by his work. Then I started noticing, every woman who I spoke to, from assistants to MUA's to clients all LOVED his work. I began to realise, he sees something I don't and women in particular react to that. He makes women beautiful to women, he's in tune with how they see themselves and how they would like to be seen. He was well known for being a models favourite, someone who they loved working with and who they loved being shot by. He's just more in tune than I ever was. He sees deeper. That's the mark of a master. None of that has anything to do with gear. If he were alive, he could take a better picture on an iphone than 99% of us. But those skills were nurtured, his taste and instinct honed. Everyone needs a place to start and it's really important that it's without judgement. That comes later.
So well said, thank you
As usual, down to earth easy to follow, super personable leading me on to the next level. Thanks for all you do for photography Peter.
Wow, thank you!
I have been trying to get more people to photograph. i believe I do a good job of realistically capturing them however I have posted some of my work with an open invitation to add to my and there portfolio and crickets none jumping in.
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
any advise in Canada for finding models for pics for modeling?
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
We had a lot of trouble finding good models last time I was in toronto
You are so honest and down to earth...thanks Peter
Thanks Roger
This is precisely why I hold you in such hard regard. We look at the desired result over the methods and gear. There are obviously differences between strobe / continuous and Hasselblad vs Canon / Nikon / Sony / etc... it's knowing the basics and most importantly getting the interaction with the subject to get the eyes and expressions.... I'd gladly get beaten by you whilst using your Hasselblad vs you with a Polaroid :-)
Thanks but no beatings 😁 we are all equal
Thank you for your very interesting thoughts. From my experience they are very true.
You're very welcome
Yeah, I started my photography journey in the 60's and was and have always been an amateur. I shoot for the fun of it and to challenge myself to be better than I was last week. Mostly I shoot sports but in the last 10-12 years I've been fascinated by portraiture which brought me to Peter Coulson. I searched around many photography websites until I found you and Inspire. You were one of the few tog's that minimized the tech and taught expressions that can only emerge on the face when you have a feeling inside and this actually works and the difference is a breakthrough in photo quality. Thanks for being my mentor! I think I will join Inspire again
Thank you so much for your support
Peter - well done and needed to keep our feet on the ground.
Thanks
Hello Pete, So nicely said. It is a lost art almost to be able to communicate with model. Plus it dose make for a better work environment. We are all told gear dose not matter, which I agree to some extent. But find the kit that you are happy with not fighting with dose help a bit.
Absolutely
Love this. I've been in groups where it was all about the gear not the use of light and the posing. When I suggested using the pop up flash on the camera to get just enough of a pop of light on the face everybody just went crazy. I'm all about using whatever you have at that moment. It's about the moment.
Yes so true
Great, great video, Peter. Very well said. I’m old-school like you are. I hope I get a chance to meet you someday. Thanks. 🙏🏻
Thank you
you are so right that the 'numbers' is the easy part. even though a lot of PWAC (people with a camera) dont know that. ive been shooting probably as long as you (1976?) and i learned all of that technical stuff by 1978 (old manual focus/manual settings/manual flash camera) and while i still know it and use it, i have such a difficult time finding anyone to stand in front of my camera besides myself.
i loved working with your models in Chicago in 22 but in the end, i still dont have my own style. i dont know what i need to do to find my own style, that isnt a derivative of someone elses...
i dont see this as a rant, but a candid heart to heart
Thank you
i enjoyed the positivity.
Thank you
Peter is such a wellspring of good advice.
Thank you
All true Peter but a lot of us are gear heads and it is fun to talk about the gear. It is like car enthusiasts love to talk about cars. Fishermen love to talk not only about the fish they catch but also about what gear they use, even though the goal is to catch the fish. The process is half the fun!!
Love your "daily criticism" comment, a double edged sward there.When I started I was doing an engineering apprenticeship, great to provide the funds for film and processing, bad because I could never afford the switch to full time photographer. So after joining a local group run by a proper tutor, I had the chance to photograph models, use his darkroom and get some proper advice on where to go next. Today I have returned full time to photography, deciding on what I like and what I think is a terrible photo. I wish I had a digital camera back in the 80's but then I wouldn't have learnt to be slow, consider the lighting, composition, etc., and of course the confidence you don't have with models as a spotty teenager XD
It’s humbling to hear the elite give newcomers a virtual hug and nudge in the right direction. There’s a perceived gap between the higher echelon professionals and us mere mortals, and whilst the gap does include skill and experience, Peter continues to show the human side is all equal. Love the technical output, but love listening to the person just as much. Respect.
wow thanks heaps
Another one, great, edifying video from you Peter. Long time ago, my then girlfriend (also my model in learning days, film days) asked me: "What is more important to you, idea or technique?" I answered: "both, because I can't achieve my idea without technique". Basically, her question was fundamental, an you just gave answer. Back then I was killing myself studding reflections in models eyes, or on glossy surfaces trying to figure out how some photo was taken, or trying to recreate some pictures from Peter Lindberg or Helmut Newton. Of course, you have to have technique, and some equipment, but essence is in you, and your idea and persistence to achieve what you are after...
Very well said, thank you
Thank you for all your tutorials and stories Peter@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer
Always nice to hear you talk about your progression. Equally nice to see your work of course. I find I’m doing more video these days, documentary stuff, with some stills, and learning editing along the way. It’s hard, but interesting, and for an old guy, rewarding to see the slow but continuing progress. Some one step forward and two back, but one advantage of being older is that is no longer devastating. Expected. Engage first gear and proceed again. No money involved but the participants are actually thrilled. That’s encouraging, and I’m not even buying new gear! Exploring how capable the gear I have actually is can be almost as much fun as new gear. Astounding for an Engineer, but ok.
As always, looking forward to your next lesson. All the best to you and ladies we have come to enjoy seeing.
Thanks Edward
Great content, as always. You have had a huge impact on my photography, primarily in the way that you interact with models, but also in your techniques. I listened to a 2-part podcast in which you were the guest. I believe it was from a couple of years ago. It was at the time when the Covid lockdowns were ending. You talked about how you adjusted your business to compensate. You said that you had even tried shooting through FaceTime just to experiment. I’ve wanted to see someone of your talent do a shoot with an app called Clos. Even with its limitations, I know that you could produce incredible results.
Thank you for taking the time to share your knowledge with us. It’s inspiring and immeasurably valuable.
Thanks I will have to have a look at Clos
Peter, I hinted at my thoughts on your creative nature once before; your passionate about your work and I know it’s can be taken the wrong way “Your a perfectionist” ensuring your idea of perfection is met. So in a nut shell if you assume your tools are the key to your outcomes, they are not ‘It’s your artistic temperament’. I don’t like photoshopped work at all, and what I do like is persistence. One day we will and have a wonderful discussion “both being Melbourne”. Sincerest congratulations on your extraordinary work. Regards Roland
Thank you Roland
i agree with not giving out camera settings or even equipment i never understood why that was done other than people trying to sell stuff
Yes I agree
I was the Year Book Photography in High School , My grade 12 yearbook is kinda my early portfolio , I took many pictures and also processed the film/prints B&W , as it was 100% B&W back then. We also were the first team to include a book cover photo of the school which I took. A wrap around photo. I have always loved B&W and now getting back to it more with Digital. Watching these RUclipss gives me inspiration which helps alot. Many of the the things you talk about I have learned thru 1 day courses similar to your workshops (I guess) but in Toronto. So it is cool to watch these as they are sometimes so close to how I take pictures. I used Kodak Tri-X 400 , and have found Lightroom/C1 profiles to create that look. Also Nikon Z7ii I have B&W profiles so camera sees in B&W, but I think I need to use Color for taking images and then convert in Post. Sorry for the long post. Thank you.
Thats awesome to hear
Very cool!! Thank you!!
Thank you too!
Really inspiring!
Thanks
"Rip em a new one" - haven't heard that one for a while!
Good rant 😊
Thank you
Thanks for sharing.
Thanks for watching
Good advice, thank you.
Thanks for watching
To folks that ask about camera settings I would reply "if you look at a painting in an art gallery are you wondering whether the artist used sable, hog's hair or synthetic brushes?" I often think that some photographers hope that if they set the flash in the same position at the same power they will realise the same image.
I blame a lot of it on the photographic press. They focus on gear more than images because their revenue comes in ad revenue from camera and lighting manufacturers. There's no money in writing about images, several magazines that did went out of business. So we get gear, gear, gear. Buy this and your pictures will be like one of our ambassadors. I wish!
Well said
Great insight thank you
Glad you enjoyed it!
It's like seeing a hill and climbing it, looking back and thinking "gee, I'm pretty high!". Then you turn towards the trail and dang, there's another hill! You climb that, look back and: Oh wow! I'm much higher! But there's another hill. At some point you start to think how silly it was to think you were so high when you weren't but after the third hill or so - you really were pretty high (or your work was really good, but your tastes change and your current work is just a bit better - it doesn't really devalue your previous work). There may come a time where there is one more hill to climb but for any number of reasons you won't/can't go any further. But I hope one would encourage others to keep climbing. There is a lot of value in helping someone else do good work while you're happy at where you're at.
Yes I agree
Probably the best video you've made so far!!! Thank you very much
So glad you liked it 😁
Great video! I agree with with tecnical. its so toxic. earlier days i did a shot where it wow-ed many but when i told that it was taken with certain cheap lens they started changing their prespective that its no longer great. Over time i ignore those and its getting overwhelming silly.
Thanks
Geartographer. It is crazy that I know this but Im still strugling to shift myself to the subject. At least Im lighting setup freak now 😂
one of my favorite videos ...... so simple
Glad you liked it, thanks heaps
The biggest problem I have getting started with photography is trying to be successful without the use of social media.
Yes
it is so true.👍
Thank you, Peter.
Your welcome
Peter, thank you for explaining the real science behind photography it explained a lot to me, your blood is work bottling.
Thank you so much
Love the video peter. Fashion used to be my goal. I still shoot some models for fun sometimes but there is no fashion industry anymore so its not a goal anymore. The people at the top dont get payed to shoot fashion, even vogue has photographers paying for everything including the models and mua and so on, just for "the honor" to get published. It's impossible to buy food from model photography so i try to do as little as possible of it. I try to shoot things that allow me to buy food. I only ever use one camera and one lens for all the images i make. I only own one camera and lens. One thing has not changed. Spending way more time in post than actually shooting, it depends on the people i shoot but overal for sure many times more time in post than shooting, so shooting practice is limited. But both my clients and the rare model shoot i do love the work i do in Photoshop.
One the changes i been thinking about lately is not letting the models pick the images. It's a tough one. But i feel models often don't pick the best images. I been trying to figure what they pick their images based on. You talked about this before but i think its brutal to do like you said and i only pick one image per outfit and that's all they get.
I still let models pick images so it gives me an idea of what they do or don't like about themselves but a lot of the time the photo they pick isn't the one I will end up using
@@PeterCoulsonPhotographer from what I seen. when I let the models pick the images. They very often go for neutral face images without emotion. And I am more likely going to pick the smiling ones. Like what from your experience do they often look at that makes them pick one image over the other? Because so far the neutral face has been the most common recurring thing by far that I seen.
My last 2 shoots, both times I agreed on about 50% of their liked images and 50% of the time I liked a different image of that outfit more.
Thank you so much, Peter.
You are very welcome
SUCH inclusivity, TOTALLY joining!
Thank you
All of This!!!! Yea the facebook part I have to be honest, I don't get into a lot of camera clubs because everything is a competition with "people". That one person always downs the other thus you can't find anything about them and they smack talk others who have good shots. "CC" s not even a "cc". I tell people all the time, "Stop asking permission for people to criticize your work! YOU are the photographer for THAT photo not others. Anyone telling you what to do with your photo is their vision not yours". I'd tell them to compare their work toe the real industry photos. I avoid camera clubs and their camera club talk and I focus on actual industry work like submitting to agents. I'm working products right now and I'm comparing to other places like Nieman Marcus and so on. People today don't know and/or has forgotten what photography is. I would join your group but I don't shoot people much because I'm sick of the fake wannabe models and babysitting them lol
Great comment thank you
This is a GREAT lesson, a lot of people needs to understand 👏🏻
Thank you
That was nice. F8 ISO 100. Thank you for sharing.
Thanks for watching!
Thank you ,nice conversation , peace
Thank you
Thank you for sharing this peter
Thanks for watching
Now there’s a life lesson, that with a little bit of imagination is applicable in every field: Try to make your subject look amazing.
(maybe exchange ‘look’ for ‘be’, but that’s all)
Thanks
Awesome video Peter, I love your videos and appreciate the video. Very Well said and I loved it.
Thank you
Thank you, thank you, thank you 🙏🏼
You are so welcome!
Great video, totally get it. Really love your work too.
Awesome, thank you!
Always an inspiration Peter. Thanks for sharing your thoughts and time.
Thanks for watching
Seems to me like many are chasing for a status rather than a good result. I think the older you get the more you ask the question, do I enjoy what I am doing? Too few seem to and too many want to compete. Street (private) and corporate event (commercial) are my thing and you learn early on no own can compete with the circumstance and composition you deliver. They are not there, I am! I guess the same is with the models. My only experience on that is family and friends and I treat it pretty much like street. Learn their face muscles, avoid facial transitions, get in close. As you say the science of photography is just numbers; the art of photography is practice and feel what you are doing.
If that was a rant, then I like your rants. Suitably calm for a mature audience. A.,
Thanks heaps for listening to my rant 😁