That world of seeing somebody's gear it's a huge problem, you'll start to think more about gear than taking pictures in the field, gear don't really matters at all, light is more important, technique and vision it's critical when taking pictures, just have fun taking pictures out there, great videos!
Love my Fstop Anja, my D850, my Z6ii and my 500mm 5.6 pf …….. plus some assorted landscape lenses. It’s easy to get caught up in a serious case of GAS, especially if you’re a retired guy with more money than brains. My (partial) cure for GAS is this, every piece of gear I acquire must be matched by a purchase of equal value for my wife. She will tell you today I’m behind on balancing the ledger but I am catching up. In the end, getting up at 4 AM to shoot a sunrise or golden hour birds on a pond beats the hell out of that latest purchase. Great videos Josh. Keep it up.
I like that system. Hmmm, I must be due for a serious shopping spree. LoL Josh will tell you I’m a weirdo because most of the time I can’t think of anything I want or need.
I’m a woman and I like your videos-I like landscape/bird/wildlife photography-I don’t watch gear based channels, I find those boring-I like to know what my favorite photographers, use but not why I subscribe to their channels-I enjoy their contents and have added you to my subscription list because of it.
Thank you so much for that feedback. I sometimes worry that nearly all of my subscribers are men. I consult my wife about what I can do to attract more women to the channel. She can’t stand watching gear videos either. She likes watching the little birds and squirrels. I get it! I like making that type of video. Definitely my preferred style. 😃
Some great thoughts, thanks for sharing those thoughts especially roughly 12:30 and on! I always like to say gear is 10%, knowledge, experience, and talent is 90% of the shot!
thanks brother. Yes. I can attest to those percentages. I spend 90% of my time taking crappy shots and 10% thinking my shots are pretty good....Only to realize I like one shot out of 100.
What I enjoy on your channel is the Story Telling Narrative type videos. We can get gear videos anywhere. You are showing your style and your part of the world that is totally different than mine. Your videos are humble and relaxing. They show the world around you. That is what I find enjoyable.
You may not like to make this sort of video but this was an outstanding job. So many of those who made comments miss the point that focusing on equipment for many photographers is an enjoyable activity. Telling them that light, composition or the rest is more important is foolish. Focusing on equipment brings them joy. Simple as that. Always someone out there quick tell us what we SHOULD be doing. Me for one. Sorry.
Josh, when you're struggling with thinking about watching yourself on your videos, just try to remind yourself that if you don't film yourself and talk about what's on your mind, then you can't continue to help others become better by learning all the great things that you have to teach. Even if you just focus on trying to make sure that others don't make the same mistakes that you feel you may have made, that in itself is priceless wisdom to impart. I, and many, many others really appreciate it, and all that you share!! Keep it up, it is well worth it!
Thanks for reminding us that it is not all about the gear. Thinking about and evaluating gear is easier than planning, composing, and creating an image or video.
The end of your video goes right back at you: Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou. I'm looking to upgrade from a fixed lens TZ100 to a ICL system. RUclips world if full of "X is the best", "Y is rubbish". Your simple "gear" video reminded me that its the experience that matters, not breaking the bank to get the best you can afford. I don't care that 'll never get the best shot ever - but I can get photos that I like. Sanity has returned to my life: 50% of the cost for 90% of the performance is more than enough for me.
For sure every photographer loves gear. But the reasons I follow you are simple: You are genuine, excellent videos, great locations and you share YOUR thoughts and not what a company wants you to say.
Really enjoyed this one more because of the insights into why you made the choices you did. Only one point I'll take exception to and challenge you about. You are a professional. Time to embrace that fact. Oh, and his name is Tony. Chelsea's husband. Laughed so hard at that one.
Nice talk about gear… What I’ve learned in my 40 plus years of My photographic adventures is this…. The best gear you have with you at the time, is the gear you have. The best Photographers always get great shots with whatever they shoot with.
Josh. Yeah confess I’m also one of the those Nikon gear nerds but your channel makes me focus on the better things in photography and even more importantly those life reflecting questions you always bring in your ‘story’ videos. Please keep up these reflections that impact photography. I take a lot from them and they do make me a better photographer, better than those ‘gear’ channels out there. They’ll tell buy this, need this and that but don’t really tell you ‘how’ to use it. Thanks josh.
One of the 3% here newly subscibed from the UK after seeing one of your lovely videos of a photo walk with your wife and the one on why you changed to Sony. I like your mix of practical, philosophical, real world challenges, successes and footage from your part of the world.
Perfect at the 12:30 point. Like many others have said, being true to yourself and learning how to get the best out of what you have makes you a better photographer in the long run. I appreciate you and others posting this out there. Enjoy the journey and the moments you get to experience. It may sound really zen like or weird but the photos we take are singular moments in time, never to be duplicated. Enjoy what we are allowed to capture
If you want to take ONE serious step in improving your photography - STOP watching gear channels - especially of non-photographer reviewers - such as 'The Northrups' and 'Fro' - They are gear-heads, NOT photographers! Photography is not about gear, it's about seeing scenes and knowing when to and not-to record them as a photo. Get some decent gear, and yes - it'll be decent tomorrow and probably years after tomorrow, in spite of what reviewers tell you - Make us eof it, and experience(!) where the shortfalls are, and invest in cameras and lenses from that perspective.
Fro knows more about photography than you do. He often makes fun of specification mania with his wind tunnel test etc. He shows gear. So what? I don’t own the latest RF glass etc, but it is nice to see what is out there. This clip rants about viewers asking about gear, when the channel is about photography. That’s all
Thank you Loved it and good you for this video . Yes a drone help me with my photography in landscape , drone first to get the fell of the land around me and the photos so yes good GEAR HELPS But its down to you to see the world , and let others see it too . Thanks and all the best Robert G. Scotland .
It’s addictive and many don’t want to believe they are addicted to gear information. As a community we are all complaining about AF on the Z7ii still when the d750 was good enough for a long time. I’m complaining that my R6 has 20mp but I started with 12mp and has zero issue with my D500… crazy stuff. Great video
I'm still using g a beginners Canon RP with Sigma 150-600 lol and for video a crappy m50 lol. The RP isn't even for wildlife and I'm still having fun. I'll upgrade someday to the r5 or r6 with a prime. But till the n its all about the adventure. Josh you are one of the reasons I got into wildlife and landscape photography. Your genuineness is contagious compared to the big guys who usually sell out. Stay safe brother.
Your recent video about your neighbor's comment about you being "obsessed with birds" was an excellent reminder about the experience of just being out in the great about. Back and budget will not allow me to cart most full-frame gear so I've been experimenting with small sensor cameras. I have two super-zoom cameras, one for distant birds (Canon SX60hs) and one better at tracking birds in motion (Leica V-Lux 114). Together with all my other gear ($50 monopod) I've spent less than two-grand. If I'm honest with myself most of my photographic shortcomings are on me and not the gear but it's that 10% when that really stellar image was soft or the EVF was too slow to help me track a great bird-in-flight moment that we can't help but think about what it would take to get the ones that got away. Keepers are part of the satisfaction experience. I've found your Canon R5 video interesting and even your Nikon Z50 outing (I think I have that right) because you've shot the gold standard in bird photography (D850 with 600mm f4) and I'm curious how you think this other gear stacks up to what you like to use. I admire the results that can be achieved with high-end gear but I'd be happy just to close that 10% gap. I'd gladly spend two-grand with Canon if they'd make a SX80-hs super-zoom camera with a high resolution, high frame rate EVF, modest animal eye-track with an autofocus motor dive speed of even just 6fps and be happy with that but I don't know if Canon would sell many SX80's. I enjoy the balance of tech and art that you bring to your channel.
Love it. Yes, I used to watch Jared and the Northrup couple but stopped some 12 months back. Love your style. I am also a Nikon man (a Z6 and a 7ii) and delighted with their performance. I agree with your comments re using a drone, but have given up using one here in the UK. There are so many restrictions on where we can fly them and we don't have the vast open spaces you guys obviously have. Every time I took mine up (also a DJI) someone took exception so called it a day about three years ago.
Thanks so much Brian. Yeah, some folks really get weird about those drones. I've had a couple of encounters. I am FAA certified and I do all the charting prior to launching and just show them my clearances and they typically have no problem and want to chat with me after that.
Great topic and more importantly approach. I stopped watching the megaphone tubers a couple years ago for people like yourself that are pragmatic and get results. Thanks
Hey Josh!!! I’m part of the 2.3% of women who watch your videos. All of the content on your channel is fantastic, from gear reviews to just documenting your photography outings. Keep up the great work!! Cheers 🍻
Some people just like doing window shopping, just have a look at the gears. I like your trips for birding and I have a group of birders at my place in Malaysia who enjoy exploring mangrove, swamp and jungle around us....just to enjoy seeing birds
Don’t get caught in the comparison trap. It will syeal away your joy! This is one of the wisest bits of advice anyone can hear. Morten says it isn’t about the photography, it is about the experience. Keep making these down to earth videos, Josh……….from the Bayou.
Yout narrated videos is the reason I subscribed. Reminds me of the old Mutual of Omaha tv show. Great work. I appreciate your content and the efforts that it takes to make these videos.
I like your channel Josh and your approach to photography. I've spent the past 40 years shooting wildlife and nature stills. Just been getting into video the past couple and agree the DSLR is not a good video camera. I will one day soon get one of the mirrorless. Probably Nikon since all my stills equipment is Nikon. It won't save me a ton over the long haul but will lessen the initial impact on a retiree's income. I do like the variety in your videos and the human touch. I like the way you and your wife have different interests in nature but how you enjoy being out together and you can each do your own thing while enjoying being together. Keep up the good work and hope your channel continues to grow. My channel won't grow until I get more serious about video and "gasp" get better video gear. I have the same tripod you do, I really need to carry it around more. 90% of my stuff is handheld. A future video on how you edit your videos, software used, your thoughts on it, etc. would be interesting. As someone who basically uses iMovie and very little editing I'd be interested in your thoughts and how you approach it. Others may be as well.
But I love gear!!! I REALLY LOVE GEAR!!! When I first started photography, for the first 2-3 yrs I just loved to be out photographing, wasn't too concerned with what equipment I had.. I was more so concerned with learning about the functions of the camera, how light and background transformed an image and learning about my subjects and their behaviors and how to get close while still getting natural behaviors without disturbing/disrupting... I learned early on those were the most important assets to a great image. BUT THEN, I hit that point that just about every photographer that is passionate and serious about their work, hits. And you realize that gear does matter at that point... Tools matter. Not too many professional trades use a black n decker cordless system.. you can use it and get by but ultimately, its Milwaukee, dewalt, Makita etc... My only problem was, I got so wrapped up into thinking I needed every piece of equipment and body I had ever seen Jim Brandenburge, Moose peterson or Art wolfe use... Mind you, this is pre digital and none of these super zoom 150-600 lenses existed... It was pretty much junk or professional lenses/primes. Obtaining quality equipment for sports and wildlife at an affordable price is soooooo much easier now days. So I got a job at a camera store, became a nikon specialist there and got so many lenses and equipment that I didn't even know what to use. It kept me from getting out or hiking to places because I simply had too much gear and was afraid to not take something because I felt I might need it for this or that if a situation/subject pops up and its what "so and so" would use for it so I do too. I grew out of that and only obtain the minimal lenses I need (want).. my actual camera gear list is about an 1/8 of what it use to be... but have a lot of valuable non camera/lens related accessories that benefit me far more than lenses. But I do love new camera technology... I love getting into whats new.. not because I think its going to magically "give me" better images.. but I just enjoy exploring and using the newest tech. Its like a hobby for me... Its the only thing I spend money on for myself... I don't buy grand boats, 4 wheelers, fancy ice castle ice house (only northern people understand that)... its just my thing.
I totally understand Joe. Don't get me wrong man, If I had the money, I'd have a hard time controlling the urge. I just have to learn to be happy with the gear I have. I hope I make that clear to folks. I just don't want people to lose out on the joy of this beautiful hobby because they see some yahoo on youtube with a fancy camera telling them their stuff is less than stellar.
Excellent video and I really agree with what you have said. Like you I can't afford to change or upgrade every time something new comes along. I also am a Nikon guy and have a lot of top end Nikon lenses, 500 E f4, 500 5.6 PF and a 300 f4 PF and my primary camera is a d850 that I will put up against any of the new cameras for image quality. I did buy a Nikon Z50 for the little bit of video that I do and it has worked just fine. The main thing is get out there and enjoy what you have, like you said you don't have to have the very best gear to get great images and have just as much fun as the other guy. Thanks for sharing your opinions and I think people respect you because of the message you put out there!!
I really enjoyed your videos. You do a great job and it is enjoyable. As you said Fro I leaned a lot from. Chelsea is a pretty lady. Story telling is what you add to photography. Before your time was the Wonderful World of Disney. They had the nature photography 100 percent. I have seen the others show. What gear and how much better it is then one over the other. But your voice adds so much more. Thanks
Gear's a funny thing. I live just outside of Yellowstone and the Tetons. I see the best gear available every time I go. I pull up with my Z6ii or Z7 and my little 500pf and often feel inferior until I look at my pics and realize I'm nailing the same shots they are. Are they better? Worse? Who knows but I'm out there loving the experience. Great video.
Always enjoy your videos for the discussion of the experience of wildlife photography. You and Scott Keys both do such a good job of this! Very refreshing to come from the gear review only channels. That said, it is interesting to see your take on gear every once in a while
Love your philosophy, brother. Recently got a D300 for something to do. Used to shoot with film and quit when it became too inconvenient. Really excited to start shooting again. I realize the D300 is not the D850 but it is more affordable and still takes great pictures. I'll upgrade when I outgrow it.
A great video - I'm new to your channel and I'm still catching up on your previous broadcasts. I have to admit to watching gear videos quite often, but I'm much more interested in the craft of photography as a way of engaging with my environment, whether in a city, or - as now - living close to nature in a very rural part of France. Photography has sharpened my perception of the world around me not only because I have become more aware of form and colour, but I´ve become aware of different dimensions of our human existance. I resonate most with videos which are reflective and offer depth - which is why I subscribed to your channel. I also really enjoy Tony and Chelsea's channel: I've learned a lot about technique through watching them and realising that I could raise my game so that I can the images I want to make. My first 35m camera was a Zorki, and I took some photos with that that I am still happy with, other cameras followed, but they broke. When I was looking for something better a salesmean recommended a used Nikkormat, because he told me that it was built like a tank, and I would have to shoot it to break it. It's still going, and I still use Nikon. Quality matters, and gear videos have their place, but almost anything you can buy today is sharper than the equipment Ansel Adams or Rober Capa had at their disposal, and their images have an iconic quality which endures to our day. Thanks for a thoughtful 15 minutes.
Well I must admit that I stumbled onto your channel yesterday, I also must admit that I found it very refreshing that your style is the narrated video style. Keep up the great work and I also liked it that the first video I watched you gave a shout out to Trond Westbury, he is an amazing photographer.
Much enjoyed your sage commentary and observations of your personal gear choices. Very down to earth advice, as well. While I own some pretty good gear, thx for reminding me that I need to practice my craft some more, using the gear I already have, instead of drooling over other photographers' better gear. Even still, you've convinced me that I need to add some form of drone to my repertoire, at some point in time. This video is most definitely a feel good video and caused me to look for more of your content by hitting that subscribe button, which I have now done. Great job and look fwd to more of your content. Thx so much for sharing this video.
Guilty as charged! I must have used every mirrorless camera (except flagship models). But was never satisfied with my efforts. Became obsessed with what others were using. Currently on a d4s and 200-500 (man! The shutter is loud) but can honestly say I’m much happier just going out searching the wilderness. I’m a new subscriber and enjoying the refreshing attitude towards our passion. ATB
about tripods - deciding between carbon and some alloy - aluminum etc…. the reason for choosing carbon is mostly due to one single fact - usability in situations featuring saltwater and other corrosive environments- alloys will all corrode with saltwater, and begin to be experienced as cosmetic defects, and then as stickiness when using the tripod and adjusting it.
Great vid! We do love gear, but if you look at what kind of gear is used in say, the Audubon Photo Contest… it’s 90% consumer grade. The Grand Prize winner used a D500 this year… (and a 500 mm f/4) You need decent gear but nothing replaces practice & actual time in the field. 🌵
13:21 🤣 I like a humble man. Josh, couldn't agree more. I typically buy "last year's model" and save a ton. Then again, I make pictures for myself only. I don't have the stress of a YT channel and I don't do social media, so I compete with myself only. Having said that, I've had that dang D850 in a shopping cart no less than 10 times over the last 2 years but I just can't push the button!
@@BayouJosh killing me dude. Maybe I'll sell the D500 and upgrade. Never did fall in love with that camera. Ok, I'm gonna tell my wife you talked me into. 👍
I think people watch RUclips videos to get access to a new friend. There are podcasts that talk about nothing in particular to get everyday friends. Sometimes people are more aspirational and travel to exotic places or are an expert in a certain area and we can add them to our friend circle with just a subscription. So it is gear but also I think having a friend to talk about it.
Thanks for the great video. I really like your videos and content. In my case I don't have a bucket loads of excess cash to spend on equipment. Going cheap can cost, but nobody ever talks about what is good enough and you can get on with appreciating your spare time . After all is a hobby for most of us.
As hobbyist photographer, I really relate to your channel. I can't afford the flagship cameras, so I keep shooting with my Nikon gear and enjoy the experience.
Great thoughts and philosophy about the whole gear thing. I feel so inspired to dig into and really practice my current setup rather than to blame it for not being good enough... Thanks man!
Light and Composition much more important than gear, but I sure sure like driving a Corvette over a Prius. And yes I love the use of drone footage in videos for the added drama and how they help to tell the story. It seems many of the photo vloggers that previously used them successfully have gotten a little lazy and stopped using them and their videos have gotten a little stale to me.
Just watched your full video and subscribed. I totally agree with you I have small wildlife photography channel and everytime I make a video about new gear I got I get 10x the views I get VS doing actual wildlife photography lol 😂 Analytics show my viewers are pretty much the same as you. Great video and love your approach keep up the great work !!!
Thanks brother! I really appreciate it. Yeah, they really love those gear reviews. I'm just gonna do one or two every few months. I really like making those narrated short stories.
What a shame I didn't stumble across your channel earlier. The RUclips algorithm obviously failed here. Great content! Thank you! New subscriber here...
Great video! I appreciate your honesty and you are doing very well infront of the camera. You are right about that we should enjoy the experience more than thinking about gear.
Btw, great video.. Yes the drone definitely adds a dynamic, that ups the veiwing experience and Im sure is a fun way to expand your craft. Also, I laughed so hard when you mentioned you can see what your veiwers watch... omg, my youtube is all over the place.. one, my kids use my same one, and even my photography stuff that I "watch", isn't necessarily what I watch... Though I am a youtube junky for photography content... I usually throw on youtube before bed and end up falling asleep with it on, so it'll auto play whatever comes on next... half the stuff on my history I don't actually watch.. whatever I actually watch, I'll usually give it a 👍 and try to comment to help bump the video for the creator.
thanks Joe, You're my kind of guy. Do me a favor and fall asleep while watching my videos. Watch them all the way through....a few times would be nice. 😂 Just kidding. but not really. LOL>
I recently discovered Sam Rino's channel (Sony a1+GM600F4) and he's all about the gear and I love his videos. He also sounds like Christopher Walken LOL.
Hello . I decided myself, not to carry that big gear, so I decided to be crazy and bought a Nikon coolpix P-1000 for nature and wildlife photos . I'm to old and tired to go up and down with all that gear . About my backpack I decided to get an Lowerpro 350AW , to carry my camera plus tripod and gimbal . Just beautiful and satisfied .
I agree with everything you said but i'd like to expand- for me, finding the balance between using my cheap gear and having a more expensive one in perspective was always the good thing. It drove me to be better at using my current gear and when i knew that i'm getting the most use of it - only then i would consider upgrades. I do that to this day- better gear is always a achievable goal, and i can say the same about honing my skills with current equipment. Also, don't worry about focusing on those narrated stories of yours so much. They definitely have much more artistic value than just talking to the camera but you should embrace your ability to talk spontaniously, keeping it interesting and without any ''ummms'' and ''emmms'' in between sentences. You are a good speaker as well. Some creators struggle with this a lot and i know few good and recognizable channels that have this problem even after reaching so many subs. Best regards from Poland Josh!
Greetings from the North Cascade Mountains, WA! Great perspective on the subject. The way you laid out your thoughts and conclusion is excellent. Yes, gear matters and I don’t believe those who says otherwise while the latest gear is showing in their video background. Love your honesty and really enjoyed listening. More word of wisdom please! Liked and sub’ed. Cheers buddy!
Keep doing the story telling videos, one of your first story telling videos I watched, as funny as it sounds it was like listening to Robert redford telling a story. Keep it up. And many thanks. Ryan from Northern Ireland
Guess l have always been a gear nerd with all my hobbies always interested in what the latest product is able to do and still sitting here in lockdown with weeks or months more to follow the mind needs to be occupied so l look up gear what product can do something another can't, what is the shiniest new toy on the market, once out of lockdown l will be able to use my gear instead of studying the gear l don't have, oh l look forward to it but in the meantime what is this next camera or lens going to do that my current doesn't.
Gimbal wise.... I went for the flexshooter gimal style ball head and love it.... but I just discovered you (you just liked my first post on the first video that I watched of yours) and we have the same view on gear. Older, cheaper gear that gets you 90% the experience of the latest greatest. Not sure if you want to be lighter but try the flexshooter....
Hi Josh, I’m thinking about getting a used Z6 (not Z6II) for bird photography (not BIF as I have a D500 for that) and videography. The other reason is I want it as a travel camera. I figure for ~ $1000 that the Z6 is a pretty good deal. Let me know if I’m making a good decision or being short sighted. I wonder if the Z6 not having 4K 60p will lead to future regret. Let me know. Thanks and btw you have a great channel. In a way it reminds me of Charles Karault’s news show with its gentle and contemplative presentation.
I can't imagine ever parting with my Z6 bodies. I have been very impressed with the image quality and the video performance. 4k 60 is useful in slowing down the wildlife motion in post but I never find myself missing 4k 60 with the z6. The few times I've used slow motion with the Z6, I have used the 1080 internal 4x or 5x slow motion which is nearly indistinguishable from the 4k footage. (at least no one on RUclips can tell) That's preference though. One more big preference is the colors from the 8 bit internal video files. A lot of people talk about needing 10bit 4.2.2 or even 12 bit. However, I have enjoyed the easy workflow and straight out of camera quality of the 8 bit video files. The AF is the only limitation and you have the d500 for the fast stuff. Thanks for the compliment. Very kind. Have a great day.
You can have all the best gear there is, but the number one thing you need is a great photographer. I dont have all the gear I would like and probably never be able to afford them, so I just make do with what I have the best I can :) Just be happy.
I’ve switched to m4/3 despite the negative reviews it gets usually. As both camera and lens costed me less than 3k A$. I’m a hobbyists photographer and would rather spend extra money on travel. But I still wanted a camera with high frame rate and lightweight body so Olympus was the perfect choice for me.
Great stuff, love the 90% for 50% cost advice. I feel lucky to have the gear I have. R5 and 100-500mm lens.. and get nice pics..one day hopefully I will land a nice prime but until then I am loving the journey. Keep up the good work
I always buy the best equipment I can afford, just lucky I have been successful with deep pockets ! I only recommend the stuff I use ! But it's certainly not all about the gear ! It' is just a coincidence that my most expensive 600mm f4 is my favourite birding lens ! 🤔😍
Hey Josh, Great video as always. Perfect subject. I enjoy some gear videos so I can see how someone uses it or stores it. I can see things the other way too.... Having to much! What to bring, how to bring it when to use it how use it...... You seem to have a system that works. So far my videos are of what I see and want to share , they are not perfect on anything special for that matter. But they are fun, but frustrating to put together. Hey.... if gear is not so important to you why did you perfectly frame your 600 mm to reflect in the lens of your sunglasses! Frigin perfect! So fun watching your videos. I wish I had someone like you to hangout with around here! Sayin' hey... Greg
Just move your butt up to Idaho. It's freaking gorgeous here. You like that sunglass trick. (total accident...only noticed it when I was editing the video) 😅
Oh yeah, you couldn't have framed the 600 mm lens any better . pun intended. The area of Idaho you are in looks very much like some of the areas that I roam around here. I think I am going to get a plan for my wife and I to take a road trip!
Nice! I'm a fan. I know everyone probably strives to get that 7k camera and 13k lens, but I think I put more value on someone who is doing it with more moderate gear. It is easier to associate with.
Kids still keep my on the bench most days lol. I still Hve 10 years till am empty nest. I'll live viciously through you josh. Keep up the great work brother
Interesting thoughts on your followers. I hope you don't give up on the gear talk with the hope of diversifying your followers. You seem to filter out a good audience. I think I spend more time and enjoy reading the comments more than I do with Fro, Chelsea and her husband. Sorry Tony, couldn't resist. PS: The video quality seemed much nicer in this video than in some others. Something different?
Josh, great video! Gear is fun and exciting, but composition is what counts! I would rather have mediocre gear with an award winning image as opposed to award winning gear with a mediocre image.
I love your videos. Love your story telling. You said an amazing perspective about gears. By the way I am Suneesh George, i Live in Lloydminster Canada. Runs a small business in photography and videography services, And i am a nikon z6ii user. Primarily a portrait photographer and videographer, Recently, i mean very Recently i started doing bird photography, and i should tell you this, your videos are truly an inspiration to me. I wish i could meet you in person and do a bird photography workshop with you. Thanks alot. 😊
Congrats on the new hobby! It’s incredibly fun and difficult at the same time. You’re very kind about the videos. I’m just a dude having fun. If you’re ever down near Boise let me know.
That world of seeing somebody's gear it's a huge problem, you'll start to think more about gear than taking pictures in the field, gear don't really matters at all, light is more important, technique and vision it's critical when taking pictures, just have fun taking pictures out there, great videos!
I’m a woman and I like your videos
Very sensible words, Josh.That's what I needed to hear actually.
Love my Fstop Anja, my D850, my Z6ii and my 500mm 5.6 pf …….. plus some assorted landscape lenses. It’s easy to get caught up in a serious case of GAS, especially if you’re a retired guy with more money than brains.
My (partial) cure for GAS is this, every piece of gear I acquire must be matched by a purchase of equal value for my wife. She will tell you today I’m behind on balancing the ledger but I am catching up.
In the end, getting up at 4 AM to shoot a sunrise or golden hour birds on a pond beats the hell out of that latest purchase.
Great videos Josh. Keep it up.
That's some of the best marital advice ever!!!! Thanks Brian.
I like that system. Hmmm, I must be due for a serious shopping spree. LoL Josh will tell you I’m a weirdo because most of the time I can’t think of anything I want or need.
I’m a woman and I like your videos-I like landscape/bird/wildlife photography-I don’t watch gear based channels, I find those boring-I like to know what my favorite photographers, use but not why I subscribe to their channels-I enjoy their contents and have added you to my subscription list because of it.
Thank you so much for that feedback. I sometimes worry that nearly all of my subscribers are men. I consult my wife about what I can do to attract more women to the channel. She can’t stand watching gear videos either. She likes watching the little birds and squirrels. I get it! I like making that type of video. Definitely my preferred style. 😃
Some great thoughts, thanks for sharing those thoughts especially roughly 12:30 and on! I always like to say gear is 10%, knowledge, experience, and talent is 90% of the shot!
thanks brother. Yes. I can attest to those percentages. I spend 90% of my time taking crappy shots and 10% thinking my shots are pretty good....Only to realize I like one shot out of 100.
@@BayouJosh haha definitely can relate to that
What I enjoy on your channel is the Story Telling Narrative type videos. We can get gear videos anywhere. You are showing your style and your part of the world that is totally different than mine. Your videos are humble and relaxing. They show the world around you. That is what I find enjoyable.
You may not like to make this sort of video but this was an outstanding job. So many of those who made comments miss the point that focusing on equipment for many photographers is an enjoyable activity. Telling them that light, composition or the rest is more important is foolish. Focusing on equipment brings them joy. Simple as that. Always someone out there quick tell us what we SHOULD be doing. Me for one. Sorry.
Thanks my friend.
Josh, when you're struggling with thinking about watching yourself on your videos, just try to remind yourself that if you don't film yourself and talk about what's on your mind, then you can't continue to help others become better by learning all the great things that you have to teach. Even if you just focus on trying to make sure that others don't make the same mistakes that you feel you may have made, that in itself is priceless wisdom to impart. I, and many, many others really appreciate it, and all that you share!! Keep it up, it is well worth it!
Thank you Andrew. I appreciate the encouragement
Thanks for reminding us that it is not all about the gear. Thinking about and evaluating gear is easier than planning, composing, and creating an image or video.
Well said! Thanks William.
The end of your video goes right back at you: Thankyou, thankyou, thankyou. I'm looking to upgrade from a fixed lens TZ100 to a ICL system. RUclips world if full of "X is the best", "Y is rubbish". Your simple "gear" video reminded me that its the experience that matters, not breaking the bank to get the best you can afford. I don't care that 'll never get the best shot ever - but I can get photos that I like. Sanity has returned to my life: 50% of the cost for 90% of the performance is more than enough for me.
For sure every photographer loves gear. But the reasons I follow you are simple: You are genuine, excellent videos, great locations and you share YOUR thoughts and not what a company wants you to say.
Really enjoyed this one more because of the insights into why you made the choices you did.
Only one point I'll take exception to and challenge you about. You are a professional. Time to embrace that fact.
Oh, and his name is Tony. Chelsea's husband. Laughed so hard at that one.
LOL! I'm glad you got that. Oh Tony! Too cool for school!
Nice talk about gear… What I’ve learned in my 40 plus years of My photographic adventures is this…. The best gear you have with you at the time, is the gear you have. The best Photographers always get great shots with whatever they shoot with.
that is true.
Josh. Yeah confess I’m also one of the those Nikon gear nerds but your channel makes me focus on the better things in photography and even more importantly those life reflecting questions you always bring in your ‘story’ videos. Please keep up these reflections that impact photography. I take a lot from them and they do make me a better photographer, better than those ‘gear’ channels out there. They’ll tell buy this, need this and that but don’t really tell you ‘how’ to use it. Thanks josh.
I appreciate it David. thanks man.
One of the 3% here newly subscibed from the UK after seeing one of your lovely videos of a photo walk with your wife and the one on why you changed to Sony.
I like your mix of practical, philosophical, real world challenges, successes and footage from your part of the world.
Perfect at the 12:30 point. Like many others have said, being true to yourself and learning how to get the best out of what you have makes you a better photographer in the long run. I appreciate you and others posting this out there. Enjoy the journey and the moments you get to experience. It may sound really zen like or weird but the photos we take are singular moments in time, never to be duplicated. Enjoy what we are allowed to capture
So true! Well said.
I love your story telling videos. Can’t wait for the next one. Great work, as always
thanks John, Just got back from a long day in the field. sorting through footage now.
Thank You Josh! Watched it twice to remember the great quotes!
If you want to take ONE serious step in improving your photography - STOP watching gear channels - especially of non-photographer reviewers - such as 'The Northrups' and 'Fro' - They are gear-heads, NOT photographers! Photography is not about gear, it's about seeing scenes and knowing when to and not-to record them as a photo. Get some decent gear, and yes - it'll be decent tomorrow and probably years after tomorrow, in spite of what reviewers tell you - Make us eof it, and experience(!) where the shortfalls are, and invest in cameras and lenses from that perspective.
Fro knows more about photography than you do. He often makes fun of specification mania with his wind tunnel test etc. He shows gear. So what? I don’t own the latest RF glass etc, but it is nice to see what is out there. This clip rants about viewers asking about gear, when the channel is about photography. That’s all
@@GerhardBothaWFFNo… From know nada about photography- he’s a gear shill, in possibly one of the worst sheep-wolf disguises!
Thank you Loved it and good you for this video . Yes a drone help me with my photography in landscape , drone first to get the fell of the land around me and the photos so yes good GEAR HELPS But its down to you to see the world , and let others see it too . Thanks and all the best Robert G. Scotland .
Hi Bayou ! Totally agree with you !
It’s addictive and many don’t want to believe they are addicted to gear information.
As a community we are all complaining about AF on the Z7ii still when the d750 was good enough for a long time.
I’m complaining that my R6 has 20mp but I started with 12mp and has zero issue with my D500… crazy stuff. Great video
So true Jesse. Consumerism is the biggest epidemic.
I'm still using g a beginners Canon RP with Sigma 150-600 lol and for video a crappy m50 lol.
The RP isn't even for wildlife and I'm still having fun.
I'll upgrade someday to the r5 or r6 with a prime.
But till the n its all about the adventure. Josh you are one of the reasons I got into wildlife and landscape photography. Your genuineness is contagious compared to the big guys who usually sell out. Stay safe brother.
Your recent video about your neighbor's comment about you being "obsessed with birds" was an excellent reminder about the experience of just being out in the great about. Back and budget will not allow me to cart most full-frame gear so I've been experimenting with small sensor cameras. I have two super-zoom cameras, one for distant birds (Canon SX60hs) and one better at tracking birds in motion (Leica V-Lux 114). Together with all my other gear ($50 monopod) I've spent less than two-grand. If I'm honest with myself most of my photographic shortcomings are on me and not the gear but it's that 10% when that really stellar image was soft or the EVF was too slow to help me track a great bird-in-flight moment that we can't help but think about what it would take to get the ones that got away. Keepers are part of the satisfaction experience. I've found your Canon R5 video interesting and even your Nikon Z50 outing (I think I have that right) because you've shot the gold standard in bird photography (D850 with 600mm f4) and I'm curious how you think this other gear stacks up to what you like to use. I admire the results that can be achieved with high-end gear but I'd be happy just to close that 10% gap. I'd gladly spend two-grand with Canon if they'd make a SX80-hs super-zoom camera with a high resolution, high frame rate EVF, modest animal eye-track with an autofocus motor dive speed of even just 6fps and be happy with that but I don't know if Canon would sell many SX80's. I enjoy the balance of tech and art that you bring to your channel.
Love it. Yes, I used to watch Jared and the Northrup couple but stopped some 12 months back. Love your style. I am also a Nikon man (a Z6 and a 7ii) and delighted with their performance. I agree with your comments re using a drone, but have given up using one here in the UK. There are so many restrictions on where we can fly them and we don't have the vast open spaces you guys obviously have. Every time I took mine up (also a DJI) someone took exception so called it a day about three years ago.
Thanks so much Brian. Yeah, some folks really get weird about those drones. I've had a couple of encounters. I am FAA certified and I do all the charting prior to launching and just show them my clearances and they typically have no problem and want to chat with me after that.
Great topic and more importantly approach. I stopped watching the megaphone tubers a couple years ago for people like yourself that are pragmatic and get results.
Thanks
You're a practical guy, Josh. We can relate to you when we watch your videos. Keep up the great work.
I appreciate that!
I love the narrative videos a lot! Keep them coming.
Glad you like them! definitely more to come.
Hey Josh!!! I’m part of the 2.3% of women who watch your videos. All of the content on your channel is fantastic, from gear reviews to just documenting your photography outings. Keep up the great work!! Cheers 🍻
Awesome!!!! You're too cool!
You don't get just good images, you get great images if you ask me!
Keep enjoying the experience, it is in the end what makes me go out...
Some people just like doing window shopping, just have a look at the gears. I like your trips for birding and I have a group of birders at my place in Malaysia who enjoy exploring mangrove, swamp and jungle around us....just to enjoy seeing birds
Don’t get caught in the comparison trap. It will syeal away your joy! This is one of the wisest bits of advice anyone can hear. Morten says it isn’t about the photography, it is about the experience. Keep making these down to earth videos, Josh……….from the Bayou.
Yout narrated videos is the reason I subscribed. Reminds me of the old Mutual of Omaha tv show. Great work. I appreciate your content and the efforts that it takes to make these videos.
Glad to hear that because those are the ones I really enjoy putting together.
I like your channel Josh and your approach to photography. I've spent the past 40 years shooting wildlife and nature stills. Just been getting into video the past couple and agree the DSLR is not a good video camera. I will one day soon get one of the mirrorless. Probably Nikon since all my stills equipment is Nikon. It won't save me a ton over the long haul but will lessen the initial impact on a retiree's income. I do like the variety in your videos and the human touch. I like the way you and your wife have different interests in nature but how you enjoy being out together and you can each do your own thing while enjoying being together. Keep up the good work and hope your channel continues to grow. My channel won't grow until I get more serious about video and "gasp" get better video gear. I have the same tripod you do, I really need to carry it around more. 90% of my stuff is handheld.
A future video on how you edit your videos, software used, your thoughts on it, etc. would be interesting. As someone who basically uses iMovie and very little editing I'd be interested in your thoughts and how you approach it. Others may be as well.
Thank you so much. I really appreciate you guys. Katie and I were out all weekend. It was very relaxing.
But I love gear!!! I REALLY LOVE GEAR!!!
When I first started photography, for the first 2-3 yrs I just loved to be out photographing, wasn't too concerned with what equipment I had.. I was more so concerned with learning about the functions of the camera, how light and background transformed an image and learning about my subjects and their behaviors and how to get close while still getting natural behaviors without disturbing/disrupting... I learned early on those were the most important assets to a great image.
BUT THEN, I hit that point that just about every photographer that is passionate and serious about their work, hits. And you realize that gear does matter at that point... Tools matter. Not too many professional trades use a black n decker cordless system.. you can use it and get by but ultimately, its Milwaukee, dewalt, Makita etc...
My only problem was, I got so wrapped up into thinking I needed every piece of equipment and body I had ever seen Jim Brandenburge, Moose peterson or Art wolfe use... Mind you, this is pre digital and none of these super zoom 150-600 lenses existed... It was pretty much junk or professional lenses/primes. Obtaining quality equipment for sports and wildlife at an affordable price is soooooo much easier now days.
So I got a job at a camera store, became a nikon specialist there and got so many lenses and equipment that I didn't even know what to use. It kept me from getting out or hiking to places because I simply had too much gear and was afraid to not take something because I felt I might need it for this or that if a situation/subject pops up and its what "so and so" would use for it so I do too.
I grew out of that and only obtain the minimal lenses I need (want).. my actual camera gear list is about an 1/8 of what it use to be... but have a lot of valuable non camera/lens related accessories that benefit me far more than lenses.
But I do love new camera technology... I love getting into whats new.. not because I think its going to magically "give me" better images.. but I just enjoy exploring and using the newest tech. Its like a hobby for me... Its the only thing I spend money on for myself... I don't buy grand boats, 4 wheelers, fancy ice castle ice house (only northern people understand that)... its just my thing.
I totally understand Joe. Don't get me wrong man, If I had the money, I'd have a hard time controlling the urge. I just have to learn to be happy with the gear I have. I hope I make that clear to folks. I just don't want people to lose out on the joy of this beautiful hobby because they see some yahoo on youtube with a fancy camera telling them their stuff is less than stellar.
@@BayouJosh Yeah totally. That was suppose to be my point I was originally trying to make in my comment but went off on a rabbit trail the other way 🤣
Excellent video and I really agree with what you have said. Like you I can't afford to change or upgrade every time something new comes along. I also am a Nikon guy and have a lot of top end Nikon lenses, 500 E f4, 500 5.6 PF and a 300 f4 PF and my primary camera is a d850 that I will put up against any of the new cameras for image quality. I did buy a Nikon Z50 for the little bit of video that I do and it has worked just fine. The main thing is get out there and enjoy what you have, like you said you don't have to have the very best gear to get great images and have just as much fun as the other guy. Thanks for sharing your opinions and I think people respect you because of the message you put out there!!
Thanks for the feedback Keith and thanks for watching.
I really enjoyed your videos. You do a great job and it is enjoyable. As you said Fro I leaned a lot from. Chelsea is a pretty lady. Story telling is what you add to photography. Before your time was the Wonderful World of Disney. They had the nature photography 100 percent. I have seen the others show. What gear and how much better it is then one over the other. But your voice adds so much more. Thanks
You are too kind Don. I really appreciate it.
90% of the capability for 50% of the price. Brilliant! This also explains, I believe, the calculus my wife did just before saying, "Yes."
that's hilarious!
Gear's a funny thing. I live just outside of Yellowstone and the Tetons. I see the best gear available every time I go. I pull up with my Z6ii or Z7 and my little 500pf and often feel inferior until I look at my pics and realize I'm nailing the same shots they are. Are they better? Worse? Who knows but I'm out there loving the experience. Great video.
Thank you for sharing your honest thoughts.
Thank you for watching Maria.
Always enjoy your videos for the discussion of the experience of wildlife photography. You and Scott Keys both do such a good job of this! Very refreshing to come from the gear review only channels. That said, it is interesting to see your take on gear every once in a while
Love your philosophy, brother. Recently got a D300 for something to do. Used to shoot with film and quit when it became too inconvenient. Really excited to start shooting again. I realize the D300 is not the D850 but it is more affordable and still takes great pictures. I'll upgrade when I outgrow it.
A great video - I'm new to your channel and I'm still catching up on your previous broadcasts. I have to admit to watching gear videos quite often, but I'm much more interested in the craft of photography as a way of engaging with my environment, whether in a city, or - as now - living close to nature in a very rural part of France. Photography has sharpened my perception of the world around me not only because I have become more aware of form and colour, but I´ve become aware of different dimensions of our human existance. I resonate most with videos which are reflective and offer depth - which is why I subscribed to your channel. I also really enjoy Tony and Chelsea's channel: I've learned a lot about technique through watching them and realising that I could raise my game so that I can the images I want to make. My first 35m camera was a Zorki, and I took some photos with that that I am still happy with, other cameras followed, but they broke. When I was looking for something better a salesmean recommended a used Nikkormat, because he told me that it was built like a tank, and I would have to shoot it to break it. It's still going, and I still use Nikon. Quality matters, and gear videos have their place, but almost anything you can buy today is sharper than the equipment Ansel Adams or Rober Capa had at their disposal, and their images have an iconic quality which endures to our day. Thanks for a thoughtful 15 minutes.
Great video, lots of wisdom there. Keep up the great work. Love your realistic approach to so many subjects.
Well I must admit that I stumbled onto your channel yesterday, I also must admit that I found it very refreshing that your style is the narrated video style. Keep up the great work and I also liked it that the first video I watched you gave a shout out to Trond Westbury, he is an amazing photographer.
Wow, thank you! I am glad you enjoy them.
Much enjoyed your sage commentary and observations of your personal gear choices. Very down to earth advice, as well. While I own some pretty good gear, thx for reminding me that I need to practice my craft some more, using the gear I already have, instead of drooling over other photographers' better gear. Even still, you've convinced me that I need to add some form of drone to my repertoire, at some point in time. This video is most definitely a feel good video and caused me to look for more of your content by hitting that subscribe button, which I have now done. Great job and look fwd to more of your content. Thx so much for sharing this video.
Thanks for the feedback Mike. I'm glad you enjoyed it.
man lovely videos as allways, but i would like to see more of "birds and you"
not pressure, thanks for your videos
also, im 15 so some people wanting to learn from young really likes your videos
I'm always working on more bird videos. More to come. thanks as always.
"thumbs up" ... omg tripods are so important; even in slight wind ..it can make or break my patience.
Beyond certain point, gears don't matter that much. Agree!
Yep1
Guilty as charged!
I must have used every mirrorless camera (except flagship models). But was never satisfied with my efforts.
Became obsessed with what others were using.
Currently on a d4s and 200-500 (man! The shutter is loud) but can honestly say I’m much happier just going out searching the wilderness.
I’m a new subscriber and enjoying the refreshing attitude towards our passion.
ATB
Good video with great info. More birds please 😁
Working on it brother. 😃
A great piece of advice, for a person like me.
Glad it helped. 😊
An editing workflow video would be cool!
about tripods - deciding between carbon and some alloy - aluminum etc…. the reason for choosing carbon is mostly due to one single fact - usability in situations featuring saltwater and other corrosive environments- alloys will all corrode with saltwater, and begin to be experienced as cosmetic defects, and then as stickiness when using the tripod and adjusting it.
That is true.
Great vid! We do love gear, but if you look at what kind of gear is used in say, the Audubon Photo Contest… it’s 90% consumer grade. The Grand Prize winner used a D500 this year… (and a 500 mm f/4) You need decent gear but nothing replaces practice & actual time in the field. 🌵
Well said! That is a fact.
Gear = consumerism
Happiness = creativity
Amen!!!!
Seriously...I love that statement. I'm using that in the future. thank you.
13:21 🤣
I like a humble man.
Josh, couldn't agree more. I typically buy "last year's model" and save a ton. Then again, I make pictures for myself only. I don't have the stress of a YT channel and I don't do social media, so I compete with myself only. Having said that, I've had that dang D850 in a shopping cart no less than 10 times over the last 2 years but I just can't push the button!
LOL! Buy the dang D850! It's awesome.
@@BayouJosh killing me dude. Maybe I'll sell the D500 and upgrade. Never did fall in love with that camera. Ok, I'm gonna tell my wife you talked me into. 👍
I think people watch RUclips videos to get access to a new friend. There are podcasts that talk about nothing in particular to get everyday friends. Sometimes people are more aspirational and travel to exotic places or are an expert in a certain area and we can add them to our friend circle with just a subscription. So it is gear but also I think having a friend to talk about it.
i'm thankful for your work, and like the new "voice over" style !
thank you Marshal. I appreciate it.
Thanks for the great video. I really like your videos and content. In my case I don't have a bucket loads of excess cash to spend on equipment. Going cheap can cost, but nobody ever talks about what is good enough and you can get on with appreciating your spare time . After all is a hobby for most of us.
Amen, Just a hobby for me too.
love it ,, no BS video
Great video Josh! That F-stop bag is exactly what I'm getting very soon! Cheers
It is super nice. Can't believe I waited so long. You are gonna love it.
As hobbyist photographer, I really relate to your channel. I can't afford the flagship cameras, so I keep shooting with my Nikon gear and enjoy the experience.
Nice! Thank you Cesar.
Good honest video,thanks
Great thoughts and philosophy about the whole gear thing. I feel so inspired to dig into and really practice my current setup rather than to blame it for not being good enough... Thanks man!
I feel like this should be the last gear video i watch, forever.
that is very wise.
Great video 👍🏻👍🏻
Light and Composition much more important than gear, but I sure sure like driving a Corvette over a Prius. And yes I love the use of drone footage in videos for the added drama and how they help to tell the story. It seems many of the photo vloggers that previously used them successfully have gotten a little lazy and stopped using them and their videos have gotten a little stale to me.
I agree. more importantly, I am interested in the story. don't just tell me about a piece of equipment. Tell me a story.
Just watched your full video and subscribed. I totally agree with you I have small wildlife photography channel and everytime I make a video about new gear I got I get 10x the views I get VS doing actual wildlife photography lol 😂 Analytics show my viewers are pretty much the same as you. Great video and love your approach keep up the great work !!!
Thanks brother! I really appreciate it. Yeah, they really love those gear reviews. I'm just gonna do one or two every few months. I really like making those narrated short stories.
@@BayouJosh The narrated short stories are great definitely enjoy them 👍
What a shame I didn't stumble across your channel earlier. The RUclips algorithm obviously failed here. Great content! Thank you! New subscriber here...
You’re very kind my friend. Thank you sir.
Great video! I appreciate your honesty and you are doing very well infront of the camera. You are right about that we should enjoy the experience more than thinking about gear.
Thank you so much!
Btw, great video.. Yes the drone definitely adds a dynamic, that ups the veiwing experience and Im sure is a fun way to expand your craft.
Also, I laughed so hard when you mentioned you can see what your veiwers watch... omg, my youtube is all over the place.. one, my kids use my same one, and even my photography stuff that I "watch", isn't necessarily what I watch... Though I am a youtube junky for photography content... I usually throw on youtube before bed and end up falling asleep with it on, so it'll auto play whatever comes on next... half the stuff on my history I don't actually watch.. whatever I actually watch, I'll usually give it a 👍 and try to comment to help bump the video for the creator.
thanks Joe, You're my kind of guy. Do me a favor and fall asleep while watching my videos. Watch them all the way through....a few times would be nice. 😂 Just kidding. but not really. LOL>
@@BayouJosh Lol... I watch yours all the way through, awake. Sometimes twice 🤣
I recently discovered Sam Rino's channel (Sony a1+GM600F4) and he's all about the gear and I love his videos. He also sounds like Christopher Walken LOL.
I've seen his stuff. he's quite the character. @samrino
Glad I found your channel...
Welcome!
nice job
Hello . I decided myself, not to carry that big gear, so I decided to be crazy and bought a Nikon coolpix P-1000 for nature and wildlife photos . I'm to old and tired to go up and down with all that gear . About my backpack I decided to get an Lowerpro 350AW , to carry my camera plus tripod and gimbal . Just beautiful and satisfied .
great kit. carrying a lot of gear is going to make me old fast. 😉
@@BayouJosh no dought of that !
I agree with everything you said but i'd like to expand- for me, finding the balance between using my cheap gear and having a more expensive one in perspective was always the good thing. It drove me to be better at using my current gear and when i knew that i'm getting the most use of it - only then i would consider upgrades. I do that to this day- better gear is always a achievable goal, and i can say the same about honing my skills with current equipment.
Also, don't worry about focusing on those narrated stories of yours so much. They definitely have much more artistic value than just talking to the camera but you should embrace your ability to talk spontaniously, keeping it interesting and without any ''ummms'' and ''emmms'' in between sentences. You are a good speaker as well. Some creators struggle with this a lot and i know few good and recognizable channels that have this problem even after reaching so many subs.
Best regards from Poland Josh!
Totally agree. I feel as if I am being represented here
👍🏻
Greetings from the North Cascade Mountains, WA! Great perspective on the subject. The way you laid out your thoughts and conclusion is excellent. Yes, gear matters and I don’t believe those who says otherwise while the latest gear is showing in their video background. Love your honesty and really enjoyed listening. More word of wisdom please! Liked and sub’ed. Cheers buddy!
Thanks Brother. I appreciate it.
@@BayouJosh no problem brother. Come visit us up north for some wildlife and nature photography.
@@aviatorman8 I've been planning a trip up there. I just need time. work is a little hectic. thanks for the invite.
@@BayouJosh right on man. Hope you get to visit.
Keep doing the story telling videos, one of your first story telling videos I watched, as funny as it sounds it was like listening to Robert redford telling a story. Keep it up. And many thanks.
Ryan from Northern Ireland
Thank you so much Ryan. Will do. It is definitely my favorite format.
Guess l have always been a gear nerd with all my hobbies always interested in what the latest product is able to do and still sitting here in lockdown with weeks or months more to follow the mind needs to be occupied so l look up gear what product can do something another can't, what is the shiniest new toy on the market, once out of lockdown l will be able to use my gear instead of studying the gear l don't have, oh l look forward to it but in the meantime what is this next camera or lens going to do that my current doesn't.
Gimbal wise.... I went for the flexshooter gimal style ball head and love it.... but I just discovered you (you just liked my first post on the first video that I watched of yours) and we have the same view on gear. Older, cheaper gear that gets you 90% the experience of the latest greatest. Not sure if you want to be lighter but try the flexshooter....
I’ve had that flex shooter in the cart a few times. Never pulled the trigger. Thanks Dean
@@BayouJosh I really like it. It's nice having both a gimbal and a ballhead in a small "light" package. Not essential though.
Hi Josh, I’m thinking about getting a used Z6 (not Z6II) for bird photography (not BIF as I have a D500 for that) and videography. The other reason is I want it as a travel camera. I figure for ~ $1000 that the Z6 is a pretty good deal. Let me know if I’m making a good decision or being short sighted. I wonder if the Z6 not having 4K 60p will lead to future regret. Let me know. Thanks and btw you have a great channel. In a way it reminds me of Charles Karault’s news show with its gentle and contemplative presentation.
I can't imagine ever parting with my Z6 bodies. I have been very impressed with the image quality and the video performance. 4k 60 is useful in slowing down the wildlife motion in post but I never find myself missing 4k 60 with the z6. The few times I've used slow motion with the Z6, I have used the 1080 internal 4x or 5x slow motion which is nearly indistinguishable from the 4k footage. (at least no one on RUclips can tell) That's preference though. One more big preference is the colors from the 8 bit internal video files. A lot of people talk about needing 10bit 4.2.2 or even 12 bit. However, I have enjoyed the easy workflow and straight out of camera quality of the 8 bit video files. The AF is the only limitation and you have the d500 for the fast stuff. Thanks for the compliment. Very kind. Have a great day.
@@BayouJosh Thanks for the advice. All the best to you and your family.
You can have all the best gear there is, but the number one thing you need is a great photographer. I dont have all the gear I would like and probably never be able to afford them, so I just make do with what I have the best I can :) Just be happy.
I'm with you brother. Plus, there's always something better.
I’ve switched to m4/3 despite the negative reviews it gets usually. As both camera and lens costed me less than 3k A$. I’m a hobbyists photographer and would rather spend extra money on travel. But I still wanted a camera with high frame rate and lightweight body so Olympus was the perfect choice for me.
That sounds very wise.
Another great video. I too, have made crappy images with great gear LOL.
😂 it gets us all.
Great stuff, love the 90% for 50% cost advice. I feel lucky to have the gear I have. R5 and 100-500mm lens.. and get nice pics..one day hopefully I will land a nice prime but until then I am loving the journey. Keep up the good work
thank you so much!
I always buy the best equipment I can afford, just lucky I have been successful with deep pockets ! I only recommend the stuff I use ! But it's certainly not all about the gear ! It' is just a coincidence that my most expensive 600mm f4 is my favourite birding lens ! 🤔😍
Hey Josh, Great video as always. Perfect subject. I enjoy some gear videos so I can see how someone uses it or stores it. I can see things the other way too.... Having to much! What to bring, how to bring it when to use it how use it...... You seem to have a system that works. So far my videos are of what I see and want to share , they are not perfect on anything special for that matter. But they are fun, but frustrating to put together. Hey.... if gear is not so important to you why did you perfectly frame your 600 mm to reflect in the lens of your sunglasses! Frigin perfect! So fun watching your videos. I wish I had someone like you to hangout with around here! Sayin' hey... Greg
Just move your butt up to Idaho. It's freaking gorgeous here. You like that sunglass trick. (total accident...only noticed it when I was editing the video) 😅
Oh yeah, you couldn't have framed the 600 mm lens any better . pun intended. The area of Idaho you are in looks very much like some of the areas that I roam around here. I think I am going to get a plan for my wife and I to take a road trip!
good stuff! I'm off to make a gear vid for my channel :)
If you get into the camo.... those shiny glasses will alert wildlife 3 miles away....... go subdued lenses bro
Subscribed. I like real talk :).
Thank you so much
I share your sentiment as most worry about the camera gear.
Thank you for the contend from Germany
Nice! I'm a fan. I know everyone probably strives to get that 7k camera and 13k lens, but I think I put more value on someone who is doing it with more moderate gear. It is easier to associate with.
Yeah. that's my thinking. I like to imagine that I'm the working man's bird photographer.
Kids still keep my on the bench most days lol.
I still Hve 10 years till am empty nest. I'll live viciously through you josh. Keep up the great work brother
Interesting thoughts on your followers. I hope you don't give up on the gear talk with the hope of diversifying your followers. You seem to filter out a good audience. I think I spend more time and enjoy reading the comments more than I do with Fro, Chelsea and her husband. Sorry Tony, couldn't resist.
PS: The video quality seemed much nicer in this video than in some others. Something different?
nailed it
Josh, great video! Gear is fun and exciting, but composition is what counts! I would rather have mediocre gear with an award winning image as opposed to award winning gear with a mediocre image.
Wise words.
My guy josh!
😄
I love your videos. Love your story telling. You said an amazing perspective about gears. By the way I am Suneesh George, i Live in Lloydminster Canada. Runs a small business in photography and videography services, And i am a nikon z6ii user. Primarily a portrait photographer and videographer, Recently, i mean very Recently i started doing bird photography, and i should tell you this, your videos are truly an inspiration to me. I wish i could meet you in person and do a bird photography workshop with you. Thanks alot. 😊
Congrats on the new hobby! It’s incredibly fun and difficult at the same time. You’re very kind about the videos. I’m just a dude having fun. If you’re ever down near Boise let me know.
@@BayouJosh definitely i will and would love to. ❤️. I am so happy to see your reply. You are very kind.