Just to clear things up: this video isn't sponsored by Sony. Those suggesting it is in the comments obviously haven't actually watched the video because mid way through I actually shit on their brand. Also, do you think Sony would sponsor a video where I use their cameras and hardly any of their glass? Think about it. I always make it clear when I am actually sponsored.
I had Nikon cameras ... like, LOTS of those. I had multiple Fujis with almost every prime lens available at that point in time. I loved those systems to death. Now I shoot Sony and I couldn't give less shits about it. I'm completely with you on that, Sony is boring ... but works.
Well Sigma is the 'Sony' of glass (hype), so it makes perfect sense to me. Not being sponsored doesn't mean that there isn't a large incentive to hawk gear through links. Your work is top notch Sean, and you certainly deserve to make a living in photography and your beautifully crafted videos. I just think there is a more genuine way to generate revenue than the slippery slope of gear links. If just one percent of your subs donated $1 every time a video dropped (starting with yours truly), imagine! At the very least, you wouldn't have to answer to angry, paranoid, tribalist comments. ;-)
Intelligent my ass have heard the rumor of lates many photographers are going back to canon many reviews on youtube why they are switching back to canon eos r. Im giving this idiot 6month to switch back to canon
@@atultayade i agree mate. I know this video was made 6month ago what pisses me off about this numbnut RUclipsr is the caption like ''a message'' to canon and Fuji blah blah like he's the most important thing in the entire world. If you don't give me what I want I'm gonna switch to sony..like canon gives a shit. Sony is about to be fucked over by the canon eos r5 lol. What a salty ballsack
This is probably the most genuine and realest approach on gear and photography in general, what most of the photographers lack these days in my opinion. And I loooooove how you emphasize that it isn't the camera that is important, its the eyes behind it.
Yeah, you just gotta love how down to earth and unbothered by ego, snobbishnes and brand loyalty he is. He sees right through all the bullshit and gets straight to the point and philosophy of photography. No nonsense, just genuine passion and professionalism. Definitely a role model.
Well done. Discovered your channel an hour or two ago and am loving your work, Sean. To be clear: the “work” is not simply your photography, but these videos every bit as much.
Your videos are so honest and well thought, Sean. For some reason this one calmed my anxieties about photography; I've heard those advices a lot before but coming from you they suddenly make sense. Thank you for that.
I don't really know. Probably because I sometimes feel like an impostor having "only" my Sony in hand when the other photographers around me shoot with their big fancy cameras. It somehow looks less professional and reinforce my insecurities about my work. I've watched dozens of videos on RUclips claiming that "gears don't matter, it's what you do with them" but it never really stuck with me, for some reason this one did. Next time I'll shoot I'll think about the fact that Sean (whom work I adore) gave up his fancy cameras to have one just like mine, I hope it will bring me some comfort :)
I totally agree Sophie, Sean's approach to life is such food for the soul isn't it? It just makes me sad that I find a second watching doesn't have the same impact because I'm not hanging on every word haha
Absolutely. Truth be told, I always re-watch Sean's videos before a big job/event (photography related or not) because it helps me focus on what's really important. I stop worrying about gears and setups and mistakes and just remember what I love about shooting. It's always more than photography with Sean :)
You sir are the new voice of reason for a lot of photographers! Great stuff and your thought processes are what a lot of us feel, but are not able to articulate as effectively, Keep up the great work!
I used to think you were an amazing photographer..... But now I am convinced you are an amazing story teller AND an amazing photographer. Please keep telling these stories Sean.
Couldn't agree more but I like these videos more of course. In these videos that we can totally see the result of his hard working with his ideas, personality in ten-twenty minutes and it's very good.
This guy is fantastic. I watched one of Tucker's videos (portrait lighting) at random, and it was good. Then I watched three more, and he's great. Clear, no-nonsense, modest, professional, articulate. Amazing. I've viewed literally hundreds of RUclips clips on photography, and these are among the very best. Tucker, keep it up. I've very grateful.
1st time viewer and WOW I’m impressed. Love how you broke this down and I’m with you it doesn’t seem sponsored by Sony! Subscribed after one video, looking forward to watching more. Thanks...
Make sure you see his videos on "Protect your Highlights" and "Protect your Shadows". You'll be spiritually moved. You'll view photography in a whole different way. Sean has a keen way of infusing philosophy in with photography.
Finally a real photographer who sees a camera as a tool, nothing more. He is spot on about current manufactures and why many people are switching brands. Why be brand loyal? That just gives any manufacturer a reason to be complacent and give us less and less year after year (yes I mean you Canon). I moved to Sony for the same reasons this man has...and have zero regrets. I could care less about whether my neck strap says Canon or Nikon or whatever!
@@raymondlaniel5407 wow your one of those elitists who know everything but yet accomplishes nothing. Butt hurt are we? Let me guess... Your a Canon fanboy!
I’m doing the exact same thing! I went from canon for 5 years then to Fuji for four and for the reasons you are preaching I’m about to make the switch although I’m waiting for the A7IV. I’ve never been excited before about Sony but after doing a lot of research on their lenses it cemented the deal for me. So many different lenses for each focal length ranging from super cheap to lenses with real character like the 55mm 1.8 (which will be my second lens I buy I think.) My first lens will be their 35mm 1.4 G master…looks like a dream lens. Thanks for making quality content and good conversations 👍
Thanks mate. I was recommended your channel for setting up profiles for the Sony, and you've been super helpful in getting me set up quickly, so thank you!
Wow man! I'm honored. Your demeanor is something I wish I had! Hope we can continue to learn and grow from one another. Super stoked you're following along. Cheers Sean.
Very well articulated, Sean! Everything you said was bang on. I have the luxury of being only a photographer and primarily a hobbyist (with some professional work on the side). Like you, I shot with the 5D II for several years and even with a Nikon D750 right before I switched to Fuji. For me, it's mostly about the functionality and the user experience a camera brings to the table. The X-T1 and X-T2 are by far the most enjoyable cameras I've ever shot with. Pair that with their excellent primes and it's a match made in heaven for me. Simplifying your multiple kits into one seems like the logical thing for you (especially from a professional standpoint). I love hearing your thoughts about everything associated with our craft (to include gear). While it's cool (on a very shallow level) to see people you admire use the same gear you do, it in no way should validate the gear choices you make. That should be tailored to your specific needs. I, myself will never shoot Sony simply because I hate the way their cameras are designed, but I certainly appreciate the incredible tech. they pack in their cameras (like the A7III). Fantastic video as always, Sean! Seeing your videos pop up in my subscription feed is the RUclips equivalent of finding gold (It's fairly rare and very valuable).
I recently got the Fuji X-T2 to maybe replace my Sony, but to be honest the difference in IQ is so large I cannot make the switch. I'd love to keep both systems though, especially because of the Fujinon 55-200 with F4.8 at the long side. If only Fuji made an FF camera with Bayer sensor, my problems would probably be over.
Fair enough mate but to say the image difference is so large thats a little miss leading! (pretty much goes against everything thats was just said in the video) its marginal at best (i know I've compared) especially if your shooting landscapes and especially once printed taking into account paper texture and print limitations. If I was to print out the same shot on the cameras in question at the same time of the same place, I suspect truthfully you couldn't even see the difference. I Know i don't walk into a gallery and say that picture was shot on a Nikon d500 @f4 @1/250 with such and such a lens with the sharpness and detail @ 50 and mask of 10 with grain added in lightroom. TBH in this day and age it was probably shot on a google pixel 2. I never had a client say to me "wait thats shot on a crop sensor go away and do it again" . It really doesn't matter they can't tell as long as its fit for its end use. I pay more attention to usability and reliability and for me Sony just isn't there yet. Get the tool that works for you. If fuji it's then great if Sony then great. Full frame, APS-C shouldn't even come into it really the formats are so close.
lakkot.b I have your 55 -200 with f4.8 I use it on the X-Pro2 and the X-H1 Also soup with the Canon 5D Mark III which is full frame and the Canon 1D Mark 4 I must be missing out on something because I don’t see what’s all the fuss about full frame, Especially when I think most people can’t tell the difference.
Earl Rogers Jr you may not be able to tell the difference in some situations, but whenever the light is not ideal it really shows. My girlfriend cannot really the difference between the bodies when I give her a camera to shoot me a portrait, but she unmistakably picks up which photos were done with Sony, the IQ is really noticeable. When I really cannot tell the difference is when I have some landscapes on a not too sunny day when the whole photo fits into the middle of the histogram. In most other situations the Sony clearly wins one over
Thanks for the comments about cameras being tools and you being the photographer. Some people say, "oh, I don't like that camera because it can't/doesn't do ." Part of the fun, for me, is working within the limitations of the camera. Take this Konica C35, all I can do is focus and make sure the needle is in the yellow area? This should be fun.
After 40 years with Canon, I switched to Fuji. Things are getting so complicated, I yearned for the simpleness of yesterday. All I want is a manual aperture, manual shutter, and manual ISO dial. I was very sad to say 'goodby', but at the same time, I was happy to say 'hello'. I'd love to meet you here in Hull.
I decided to go with cameras from (mostly) before I was born now (which would be late '80s). Not to be hipster about it, but your comment resonated with me in terms of the simplicity. - Just grab that good enough camera, use a nice lens, composition/focus/aperture/exposure, slam the light onto the strip, oh and don't forget to advance the roll. ;P - Though I will admit being considerate of the film, with its characteristics such as color/contrast-balance and ISO and all that, is a bit of a headache, it's also part of the fun and creativity.
This was a fantastic video, thanks for this. I recently switched from long term canon use to a Sony system and I felt a lot of the things you did. I chose it as the correct tool for the job and it’s doing such a good job at delivering. Did I have to adjust some of my presets to cater to Sony’s colours? Sure, but the user experience and efficiency of getting the initial shot is 10x better. Definitely worth the minor hurdles for getting the job done.
I was hesitant to click on this video and actually watch the whole thing, but I'm incredibly glad I did. I appreciate your pep talk about not getting attached to brands and not overly depending on gear for getting "my" look in pics. To be honest that's a problem I've been dealing with lately but you put it into words quite nicely. Thank you!!
I loved this. Sean is one of the few channels that actually talks about photography instead of gear. A strange phenomenon I’ve discovered is that when a new camera comes out, there’s thousands of reviews of it, yet very very few videos that just highlight the content these cameras are creating. I’ve seen thousands of A7S3 reviews, but only a few videos whose sole purpose is to make art.
It's quite funny how the whole point of this video is about not getting attached to what is essentially a tool, just because it has a certain name attached to it, yet so many people in the comments can't help but say their two cents in quite defensive a manner towards Sean's decision to switch. Sean doesn't care that the tool says "Sony" on it, he just wants the right tool for his purposes. If that happens to be a Sony camera at this point in time, great. For anyone saying "Sony are all about hype", how about going out and using one first? They're hyped right now, but they're worth the hype for the most part. Especially in the case of the A7iii, which packs in a ridiculous amount of well-implemented features and produces fantastic images for the amount of money you're paying. Because let's face it, who doesn't want value for money in this expensive world we live in?
A camera club member suggested to our group to check out Sean Tucker. I'm so glad he did. WOW. No babble, just straight up excellent information. Thank you!
Once you get settled with the Sony, I'm curious to know how you have your custom buttons setup. Can you do a vid on that when you get a chance? Love your content.
Interesting part about the non-emotional aspect of buying and having a Sony A7. I have one, and I'm not only not emotionally attached to it (as I am to other cameras) - sometimes I outright hate it! But then it gives me by far the best sensor (= image quality) for the money, and I can adapt so many old lenses that I'm still keeping it. The lack of lens options that would suit me (and that would be affordable) is still disconcerting for me (and it does not get better). Very good explanations why this is the right tool for you, and everything is quite reasonable - so, thumbs up for this video!
edshotsdotcodotuk - it's not about style, it's more about practical aspects. I want small lenses in a certain range; there are some non-Sony lenses, mainly from Zeiss (e.g. from their Loxia series), that I find interesting, but way too expensive. I'm well aware that full-frame is a challenge in this case, and that the Sony system does not fit the bill for me (as my "primary" or only system - I use the A7 only for old manual-focus lenses).
Christian Augustin have you heard of 7artisans? They've only just started releasing full frame coverage lenses but the pricing is very reasonable and their size is Loxia like. I was really tempted to get the 35mm they have and in the UK it can be had for £160. Looks like they're going to be a Samyang alternative as Samyang have started to push further into the autofocus side of things. I love my old PK and M42 lenses on my A7rii but the adapter adds an extra bulk which isn't always welcome. 7artisans may just be the solution without breaking the bank.
Christian Augustin oh and I meant style of shooting not fashion just to be clear. I don't think many buy the A7 cameras for style points hahaha (although I like their plain modern look myself).
Unlike most equipment review videos on RUclips, the way you presented this subject is quite unique and sincere. You just got yourself a new fan ! Good job!
True statements. The same thing happens in music. While it's true each instrument has its particular tone, it's the musician and the way he plays which actually define his style. The Fender Stratocaster has been used by so many, but Jeff Beck sounds very different compared to Jimi Hendrix, Robben Ford, or SRV. To the extreme, the funniest statement is from the good old Keith Richards. Keith Richards reportedly owns 3000 guitars, and he once jokingly said, "Give me five minutes and I'll make them all sound the same."
It is 3:20am and you have such an inspirational story and I am getting up from watching RUclips from my bed and getting on my computer to finish editing some graduation pictures. Thank you man. I forgot this was even about why you switched to Sony
I like your channel because you are speaking and explaining very important part (as for me) of photography that's usually out of frame. There are a lot of guides, overviews, advertising in RUclips but not enough explaining why you should start photography? What is the background, where to take inspiration, and the most important the communication. I just started my hobby but as I have a big experience in communication (international relations, now realty estate agent) I don't have problems but on my country the photographer is usually wired and always not satisfied with fee man))) and they can't communicate and seems like they don't like their job. Your videos are good in explaining that tiny spirit of photography I was looking for. Good luck
Garbid, I subscribed to Sean's channel for the same reasons you said you watch his videos. I find many pros photographers do not like what they do; they once loved photography, though. Anyway, good luck
I shoot with a Canon 5D mark IV and take it to work with me every day, but I also bought an a7III and absolutely love it. The ONLY Sony specific lens I own (which isn't even Sony) is also the Samyang 35 f/2.8 -the rest are all adapted Canon lenses ranging from Canon itself, Sigma, and Tamron. I have no plans to sell the 5D and will use it for work and long hikes in the desert even though it is the heavier of the two, because of its massive weather sealing compared to the Sony. The image quality between the two is very close with a very small pixel peeping edge given to the a7III.
Randy Dietmeyer same I shoot with Canon 5D Mark IV but I bought Sony A7RIII with Samyang 35f1.4 FE thats the only lens I have for Sony. I still have 6 lenses for Canon and only 1 for Sony. I still like my 5D Mark IV for wedding work but I also bring A7RIII as second body with MC-11
I, too, didn't even think about Sony as a professional level option even though I was happy with their point-and-shoots. I was a die-hard Nikon guy until I had to upgrade. Sony's great eye focus caught my 'eye' so I switched to Sony. I'm sure many will switch back and forth, especially when Nikon and Canon release their professional level mirrorless in the near future.
I hope you enjoy shooting with Sony. After a 10 year hiatus from photography where I owned Canon gear prior to my break, I've never regretted my choice to invest in Sony gear. That Samyang 35mm pancake lens is probably the most used and cheapest lens I use on my Sony bodies - what a little beast it is. Super light and super sharp across the frame - I absolutely love it! I also have and love the 85mm F1.8 you've got - another relatively cheap lens that produces mind-blowing results.
Total beginner here ... 1. Never have I agreed and disagreed to something this fast. I hear what you are saying about emotional attachment to your tools and instruments and yet its difficult! 2. Never have I subscribed to a channel so fast! 3. Cleared a lot of doubts even before getting the gear in hand! Thank you
I'm an enthusiast who shoots Fuji, which I think is great; however, I'm also a business person/consultant (not in photography). You have made a solid, dispassionate BUSINESS decision that makes total sense based on the facts at hand. And, as you have stated numerous times, your talent matters far more than the platform/tool. Keep up the good work! I'm sure the Sony photos will be great!
I was so excited when the A7ii came out. I couldn't believe how good the EVF is and how customizable the layout is not to mention the image quality. Still excited about my Sonys. On some level it's probably because I don't find myself thinking about the camera as much as systems I've had, I see my camera and I just think about making images.
With all the custom buttons I truly LOVE my Sony. All the fuss over confusion menus I find overblown and the options are just wonderful. Only thing I don't care for on the sony is where the lens release button is placed, having large hands it's tight in there and I cant' figure why they didn't put it on the other side where there's tons of room to get at it.
Best reflection on photography versus gear. My journey: Leica (father's camera in 1969 - blown away by the bw contrast) > Olympus (OM2 from Japan - elegant, light, the early "Fuji") > Canon (AE1 - technology) > Sony (A7III - rekindled my love of photography), with a few others here and there. Print/Slide film, DSLR, Mirrorless. Love them all, but am not brand loyal. I am loyal to my wallet, my happiness and exploratory nature. Heartfelt thanks, Sean.
My first and only camera (I just recently started) has been the a6300. All my photograph friend were like: nooo go to canon or nikon, but I was happy with the specs of it, and have not regret it for a second. Hopefully as I get better I will upgrade to a body like these.
Zoddex a6300 is a great camera that is easy to take around. The only apsc from canikon id be willing to trade that for is the d500, which is not nearly as easy to run around town with. Happy shooting man enjoy getting into this crazy world of photography 👍🏻
Why bother?, I still have the A6000; never felt the need to upgrade, better ISO performance, faster focusing etc really do not add to the competent photographers work. Fact is most pro's take hundreds of snaps and only keep maybe 1% of those anyway; unless of course you take regular sports photos in which case you may well need that extra edge and fear of losing the money shot.
Zoddex they prolly said that cuz the a6300 is prolly better than there cameras lol. The supersamplee video on those a6300+ and a7ii+ cameras is so sharp
This is so perfectly put together: Sony is the reasonable choice while it took out all the emotion out of photography. Same reason I sold all my Fujifilm gear as I am about to shoot more video and needed the a hybrid camera. I still miss my Fujifilm gear.
I love the small size of the Sony kit I've put together. It's just a single a7III, the Zeiss Batis 25 f/2, the Sony 85 f/1.8 and the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8. My entire kit can fit very easily in my backpack with some room to spare and whether I'm going on a trip with my girlfriend or just going down the street to take some photos and videos, I can carry a single backpack and be able to capture just about anything I want.
Lifelong Nikon shooter and I love how unbias you are. You're a mentor for a lot of budding photographers. I will continue to shoot my Nikon, but it's mostly an ergonomics thing. I appreciate the fact you don't belittle any of your viewers.
Sean Tucker No one needs a hype camera, it's not the status symbol we are after we are after the exciting journey of creation. And for that we need a canvas in other words a big ass sensor with 14 stop dinamic range and for heavy commercial work a medium format sensor with 16 stop dynamic range and definitely a brain with good amount of grey matter so that we can enjoy the journey of creation.
Yeah I also tried Sony, great image quality if your shooting sports cars or products, but I just couldn’t get my skin tones to work as my Canon and Fuji, the colour gamut also was a bit off for me. But I did enjoy the AF and I thought the Ergonomics where not that bad once you customise. But I’m with you
"I wasn't excited about moving to Sony as a brand, but I was 100% at peace that it was the right decision." - I feel you here p.s. Great video, so honest and fair to all brands.
This video is 5 years old and the message still applies today in 2024. I’m not a professional photographer, I’m just a hobbyist - but much of this applies to all of us. Thank you!
Sean, you may never read this comment but I'll say it anyway. You definitely have a gift - your videos are like cool, thoughtful, engaging stories. I am a brand new content creator and I hope to be able to take even a little bit of your your style and skill and make it my own in the stories that I want to share. Oh yeah, and the info on your gamer choices is very insightful as well. A sincere Thank You!
Gerry Pocha I am on Canon 6 D as well. So curious to know what your experience with the switch is now? I have some third party lenses (Sigma and Tamron) - do they work wonderfully with the Sony adapter? Did you consider the Canon EOS R?
My journey to Sony was similar in terms of kit, and indeed the reasoning behind the decision to switch from Nikon. The biggest deal breaker for me was the lack of dual cards on the new mirrorless offerings. I shoot weddings and I’m not prepared to compromise. My A7R3 arrives this week.
This resonated with me so much. I went through the exact same process, and had the same feelings when I nostalgically left Nikon, and transitioned to Sony. That said I could NOT be happier about making the move, I also went with the A7iii. Also couldn't agree more with editing being just as (if not more) important as the shooting you do as a professional.
Honestly, i understand where he's coming from. I First started shooting with my dads old Minolta on film, i eventually picked up a Canon T2i, loved that thing and to this day i use it for product photography for my own company. I haven't really been able to enjoy photography as much as i used to (i literally shoot the product, edit it. upload it and move on. no excitement there) For that reason, I'm now in the market for a Fuji X-E3 because it fits my current bill. I want something versatile where i can shoot some short videos, take great pictures for travelling all in a small package. and something about that old retro look brings me back to when i used to use my dads old Minolta, so im super excited to pick one up. One thing i don't understand is how people can have such childish attitudes. They buy a camera based on recommendation, that person switches to something else and they feel betrayed and lash out. WHO CARES. You buy what suits YOU at the time. EVERYONE will change gear at one point or another. Thinking that because they recommended particular gear to you that they now have to use that gear forever to keep you happy is the most closed minded thinking i've come across. Stay humble people and do what makes you happy.
So putting it short: all depends on what you need. If you only shoot stills, you don't need a Sony unless you mainly shoot sports. And yes, you can actually work as a professional photographer with an APS-C camera. Thank you for the honest video.
I've been having so much internal conflict about which camera and lens kit I should buy, and because of this video I realize now that whichever set I choose to purchase, it is my work that I will focus on shining through, and not my gear that will make it shine. Thanks a lot! Full send on subscribing from this.
Excellent coverage of your subject. I especially want to shoot more with the gear I have and progress in my skills. Thank you for this very helpful blog.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. I've been 'Canon Loyal' for 20 years and I'm days away from switching to the Sony system. You've reminded me of why I love to shoot, why I teach, and that what we photograph with is simply a tool for expression. I keep telling my photographer friends leaving Canon is like leaving an old friend and I've learned I'm not alone in that. Thank you again. Keep shooting!
I actually switched from Nikon to Sony a couple of months back and faced the same "nostalgia" about my Nikon gear. I realized that they'd served me for years, taught me so much and I wouldn't be the photographer I am today without that gear, so it was very sad to say "goodbye"
I have to say this to you! This is the best gear video i have ever seen so well explained and detailed. I feel exactly the same way as you, i have a C100 a Gh5 a 5d mark2 and the sony can do all of that in one camera. I feel very identfied!
Good advice. Back in the 1980’s my photo Professor gave us students these really Cheap plastic cameras that used 120 film. After putting the film into the camera we had to use Black Electric tape to seal up the back door to keep it light tight. Since the lens was made of plastic as well we were all going to get different results. So, she taught us that it was up to us to be as creative as possible and in the end it is not the camera but our own imagination that made the image count.
6 лет назад+7
Thank you Sean, this was very useful for me. I am also dissapointed with Canon and I plan to switch to Sony very soon. I agree that the camera type is not the most important thing, but honestly it is just starting to be too painful to continue working with Canon dslrs because of so many limitations for people who do both - photo & video. I look forward to buying a Sony A7III and see for myself if it is really as good as people say.
I have zero regrets making that very switch. I sold most of my Canon lenses but many can be used with an adapter if you want to hang on to them, eye AF even works, what doesn't work though is video AF with Canon glass.
What did it for me was Canon's mirrorless release, the EOS R. I think mirrorless is the way to go, especially if you are interested in packing light. And I wanted Full frame for similar reasons. But the EOS R is a joke. You mentioned they deliberately hold back features and they did that in a major way. Sony, on the other hand, gave us way more features that anyone was even hoping for with the a7iii
You are so right about buying a brand and sticking with it and "showing it off" at every moment because it is known to be a good brand, rather than perfecting the craft with whatever we have at the time, and moving up or over when it is time to do so.
I follow a lot of Fuji photographers, because I find they have a style of photography that I admire, and inspire to have myself. That’s how I found you Sean. Do I care you’ve moved to Sony? No not really. I love your street and landscape photography (sorry portraits don’t really do it for me). I don’t care what you got it with. Glad you’ve found a system that suits your needs.
Absolutely fantastic video Sean, I love all of the thoughts you've shared. This was totally neutral, unbiased, to the point, no bullshit information, which seems so rare in the incredibly elitist and gear-focused world of photography, which is probably only second in that regard to the world of cycling (ask me how I know). Cheers my friend, all the best to you.
Glass matters. I started acquiring Nikon lenses in the '80s, and that still influences what I do today. Have certain ones I adore and use across three different brands of bodies depending. If you want to fall in love and find beguilement in the mystique and cachet of a piece of gear, lenses are where it makes a bit of sense, because they all have a certain personality.
As usual, very honest and well articulated. As you know from (too) many conversations, I’ve just added an Olympus EM1 Mkii into my mix. Does it mean that I love my Fuji X-Pro1 any less? Of course not. In the end, they are both just hammers.
I also use the Samyang 35 f2.8 and I love it. It stays on my camera a lot. As for colour, colour changes are a lot easier in photo than video. Video doesn't record in raw for most consumer cameras. You'd need an external recorder for that.
My 1st camera was a T2i. Loved it with the 50mm 1.8 I moved to the A6000, then the A6300, then The A6500. I now use 2 A7iii's for my hybrid shooting. Those 2 camera bodies and about 4 lenses cover everything I need. One bag and a few lights and monopod and I'm out the door. Ive been using Sony for about 6 years now. Love your content. Keep it up!! One question. What are some likes and dislikes about the A7iii now that you've used them for a bit? Just curious
Such a versatile photographer surely needed a versatile camera.. i understand your choice of Sony. Anyway, you are one of the photographer that confirmed my choice of the XT20. Which is the camera that fits me. 🤗
As a newby and very much on the learning curve I absolutely loved the emotion you expressed and technical detail you went into. I’m wanting to buy more gear for both stills and video and I’m concerned about going too hard into one brand. This has been really insightful.
Excellent arguments. Moved from Canos EOS 400d to Fujifilm XT3 and i have no regrets :). i cannot agree more for using this camera to get more photos on a daily base
I think a lot of stuff with with switching is brand loyalty. I have shot with Nikon for 18 years and I at one point was very loyal to Nikon but I realised around 2013 that Nikon really didn't care about their customer base and that was re-enforced with the release of the D600 in 2014 and subsiquently by the big price rises Nikon as put on their products. I also felt that Nikon was going in the wrong direction with their mirrorless system. I really disliked the Nikon 1 system and around that time I tried out the X-E, which whilst technically not a great camera, was fun to use. With Nikon's continuing differing with mirrorless, I naturally looked to Fujifilm when I wanted a mirrorless camera and I bought the X-H1. Now the reason I went for the X-H1 over the Sony a7III was because I hate the ergonomics of the Sony, it has got better but the X-H1 was so much nicer and now days the experience of doing photography is as important as the photos themselves. Now, the X-H1 had various problems upon release and most have been fixed. The only issue I can't get over is the EVF, when shooting studio portraits, which isn't a Fujifilm problem, more of a mirrorless issue. I know I can change the EVF viewer settings so I can use shoot with strobes but boosting the gain, does make the EVF look horrible. So I went back to my D800 and probably won't be giving up my DSLR any time soon.
Your point about the emotional investment in a camera system is huge and really something to think about. I'm wobbling really hard right now on possibly switching camera systems and this made me realize that this is a huge hang upi have right now. Thanks for the perspective, it's going to help my decision making process.
Great story. Thoroughly enjoyed it. I relate to your points about excess emotional connection with gear, and the need to work against that, lest it be a handicap. There is, of course, the aspect of investment / sunk cost / financial inertia, which limits the rate we can change gear. But the risk is mentally misreading that commitment as some kind of personal or tribal identity, and therefore staying with it longer than makes sense. Thanks.
Just to clear things up: this video isn't sponsored by Sony. Those suggesting it is in the comments obviously haven't actually watched the video because mid way through I actually shit on their brand. Also, do you think Sony would sponsor a video where I use their cameras and hardly any of their glass? Think about it. I always make it clear when I am actually sponsored.
No explanation needed, fam
I had Nikon cameras ... like, LOTS of those. I had multiple Fujis with almost every prime lens available at that point in time. I loved those systems to death. Now I shoot Sony and I couldn't give less shits about it. I'm completely with you on that, Sony is boring ... but works.
The trolls want you to get annoyed man. Don’t feed them by responding. Just ignore.
Good advice.
Well Sigma is the 'Sony' of glass (hype), so it makes perfect sense to me. Not being sponsored doesn't mean that there isn't a large incentive to hawk gear through links. Your work is top notch Sean, and you certainly deserve to make a living in photography and your beautifully crafted videos. I just think there is a more genuine way to generate revenue than the slippery slope of gear links. If just one percent of your subs donated $1 every time a video dropped (starting with yours truly), imagine! At the very least, you wouldn't have to answer to angry, paranoid, tribalist comments. ;-)
brands don't deserve your loyalty, they're already getting your money.
Absolutely. If they want loyalty they have to pay for it.
spot on wisdom！！ Brand loyalty is more like brand trap
cameras can , its same with my car , I am loyal to Astron
I agree these companies need to battle for our money
This was the most intelligent argument for how to choose your gear I have heard to date. Thanks for this.
Couldn't agree more.
True!!
For real...
Intelligent my ass have heard the rumor of lates many photographers are going back to canon many reviews on youtube why they are switching back to canon eos r. Im giving this idiot 6month to switch back to canon
Yea, this makes me cry with my 4 bag set up LOL. I always feel so unprofessional looking like a schmuck lugging all my gear.
Nooooo, you've changed brand....oh wait...I don't care. haha. As long as you keep sharing your view of the world through your use of light, I'm happy.
Thanks Steve:) Will do!
This guy has long videos because he speaks in bullet form. Quality presentation. Articulate, organized, and funny!
That's stupid reasoning ... He mentioned ... I can give similar reason not to buy Sony
@@atultayade i agree mate. I know this video was made 6month ago what pisses me off about this numbnut RUclipsr is the caption like ''a message'' to canon and Fuji blah blah like he's the most important thing in the entire world. If you don't give me what I want I'm gonna switch to sony..like canon gives a shit. Sony is about to be fucked over by the canon eos r5 lol. What a salty ballsack
@@viperstinger77 keep blowing canon
@@viperstinger77 fanbois having a cry is the funniest thing ever
@@firstname405 well said
This is probably the most genuine and realest approach on gear and photography in general, what most of the photographers lack these days in my opinion.
And I loooooove how you emphasize that it isn't the camera that is important, its the eyes behind it.
Yeah, you just gotta love how down to earth and unbothered by ego, snobbishnes and brand loyalty he is. He sees right through all the bullshit and gets straight to the point and philosophy of photography. No nonsense, just genuine passion and professionalism. Definitely a role model.
Honestly I’ve found a lot of people in the photography community, offline and not, to be genuinely passionate about other people’s photography
18 mins and 7 seconds of the best common sense I've heard in years.
Mike Lambert underrated comment!!!
Exactly
Well done. Discovered your channel an hour or two ago and am loving your work, Sean. To be clear: the “work” is not simply your photography, but these videos every bit as much.
Thanks mate:) and welcome
Omg.. the elephant was here too... :)
@@patsrpo hold my beer and that thought
"And that's why I switched back to a Motorola razor flip phone"
hahaha this is brilliant
Your videos are so honest and well thought, Sean. For some reason this one calmed my anxieties about photography; I've heard those advices a lot before but coming from you they suddenly make sense. Thank you for that.
Thanks Sophie:)
Hi the heck did this calm your anxieties about photography? Seriously I’d love to know.
I don't really know. Probably because I sometimes feel like an impostor having "only" my Sony in hand when the other photographers around me shoot with their big fancy cameras. It somehow looks less professional and reinforce my insecurities about my work. I've watched dozens of videos on RUclips claiming that "gears don't matter, it's what you do with them" but it never really stuck with me, for some reason this one did. Next time I'll shoot I'll think about the fact that Sean (whom work I adore) gave up his fancy cameras to have one just like mine, I hope it will bring me some comfort :)
I totally agree Sophie, Sean's approach to life is such food for the soul isn't it? It just makes me sad that I find a second watching doesn't have the same impact because I'm not hanging on every word haha
Absolutely. Truth be told, I always re-watch Sean's videos before a big job/event (photography related or not) because it helps me focus on what's really important. I stop worrying about gears and setups and mistakes and just remember what I love about shooting. It's always more than photography with Sean :)
You sir are the new voice of reason for a lot of photographers! Great stuff and your thought processes are what a lot of us feel, but are not able to articulate as effectively, Keep up the great work!
Thanks Darren.
amen
Darren Miles Well said.
disagree.... i dont think any of the reason Sean said are what people in the real world even consider. Its all about finances
You’re a quality youtuber. No other words needed. I’m considering swapping from canon to Sony for the A7iii as well. Might do it today.
how does it feel dude? regret? pls share more info. im trying to switch from 5d3 to sony73
Share about the same. Lot many are in the queue.
@@bocahpetualang89 do it. You'll not regret it.
I did it and it was a good decision
@White Boy cheaper DSLR for dinosaur photographers like you lol
I used to think you were an amazing photographer..... But now I am convinced you are an amazing story teller AND an amazing photographer. Please keep telling these stories Sean.
I wish you started your own Podcast!
IDK if I'm the only one!
Couldn't agree more but I like these videos more of course. In these videos that we can totally see the result of his hard working with his ideas, personality in ten-twenty minutes and it's very good.
Hell yeah!
+1!
What a great suggestion!
+1!
This guy is fantastic. I watched one of Tucker's videos (portrait lighting) at random, and it was good. Then I watched three more, and he's great. Clear, no-nonsense, modest, professional, articulate. Amazing. I've viewed literally hundreds of RUclips clips on photography, and these are among the very best. Tucker, keep it up. I've very grateful.
"If that one annoyed you, then this one will make you apocalyptic". Man, I literally roared out loud with laughter at that!
And he was wrong - he articulated himself that well, almost everybody hit the like-button. :-)
I thought he meant to say “apoplectic”
Nearly peed!
@@simianinc this.
@@simianinc Some people got so apoplectic they went all apocalyptic
Loved this so much. All your videos are so thoughtful and insightful.
@@shawnmiranda haha! I think it might be the best thing I've ever thought of. I've definitely peaked now 😂
I come here for his philosophy more than photography.
1st time viewer and WOW I’m impressed. Love how you broke this down and I’m with you it doesn’t seem sponsored by Sony! Subscribed after one video, looking forward to watching more. Thanks...
Tucker Pearce yes, same exact story with me too haha
Tucker Pearce same here. And I’m a snobbish subscriber.
Make sure you see his videos on "Protect your Highlights" and "Protect your Shadows". You'll be spiritually moved. You'll view photography in a whole different way. Sean has a keen way of infusing philosophy in with photography.
Same
It doesn't seem sponsored by Sony?
Finally a real photographer who sees a camera as a tool, nothing more. He is spot on about current manufactures and why many people are switching brands. Why be brand loyal? That just gives any manufacturer a reason to be complacent and give us less and less year after year (yes I mean you Canon). I moved to Sony for the same reasons this man has...and have zero regrets. I could care less about whether my neck strap says Canon or Nikon or whatever!
madmaxx72 Maybe you should talk to actual photographers instead of watching RUclips video by influencer, reviewers or gear heads...
I could care less??? Means you do care, and thus could care less. I believe you mean "I could NOT care less" - which means what it says.
@@raymondlaniel5407 wow your one of those elitists who know everything but yet accomplishes nothing. Butt hurt are we? Let me guess... Your a Canon fanboy!
Richard Avedon is the Real Master.
... my neck strap says Kaza... they make some great cases! ;D
I’m doing the exact same thing! I went from canon for 5 years then to Fuji for four and for the reasons you are preaching I’m about to make the switch although I’m waiting for the A7IV. I’ve never been excited before about Sony but after doing a lot of research on their lenses it cemented the deal for me. So many different lenses for each focal length ranging from super cheap to lenses with real character like the 55mm 1.8 (which will be my second lens I buy I think.) My first lens will be their 35mm 1.4 G master…looks like a dream lens.
Thanks for making quality content and good conversations 👍
@Ulan Toleugaziyev seems like a lens with lots of interesting “character”
I just want to say I freaking love this channel.
Thanks mate. I was recommended your channel for setting up profiles for the Sony, and you've been super helpful in getting me set up quickly, so thank you!
Wow man! I'm honored. Your demeanor is something I wish I had! Hope we can continue to learn and grow from one another. Super stoked you're following along. Cheers Sean.
Very well articulated, Sean! Everything you said was bang on. I have the luxury of being only a photographer and primarily a hobbyist (with some professional work on the side). Like you, I shot with the 5D II for several years and even with a Nikon D750 right before I switched to Fuji. For me, it's mostly about the functionality and the user experience a camera brings to the table. The X-T1 and X-T2 are by far the most enjoyable cameras I've ever shot with. Pair that with their excellent primes and it's a match made in heaven for me.
Simplifying your multiple kits into one seems like the logical thing for you (especially from a professional standpoint). I love hearing your thoughts about everything associated with our craft (to include gear). While it's cool (on a very shallow level) to see people you admire use the same gear you do, it in no way should validate the gear choices you make. That should be tailored to your specific needs. I, myself will never shoot Sony simply because I hate the way their cameras are designed, but I certainly appreciate the incredible tech. they pack in their cameras (like the A7III).
Fantastic video as always, Sean! Seeing your videos pop up in my subscription feed is the RUclips equivalent of finding gold (It's fairly rare and very valuable).
Very well said.
I recently got the Fuji X-T2 to maybe replace my Sony, but to be honest the difference in IQ is so large I cannot make the switch. I'd love to keep both systems though, especially because of the Fujinon 55-200 with F4.8 at the long side. If only Fuji made an FF camera with Bayer sensor, my problems would probably be over.
Fair enough mate but to say the image difference is so large thats a little miss leading! (pretty much goes against everything thats was just said in the video) its marginal at best (i know I've compared) especially if your shooting landscapes and especially once printed taking into account paper texture and print limitations.
If I was to print out the same shot on the cameras in question at the same time of the same place, I suspect truthfully you couldn't even see the difference. I Know i don't walk into a gallery and say that picture was shot on a Nikon d500 @f4 @1/250 with such and such a lens with the sharpness and detail @ 50 and mask of 10 with grain added in lightroom. TBH in this day and age it was probably shot on a google pixel 2.
I never had a client say to me "wait thats shot on a crop sensor go away and do it again" . It really doesn't matter they can't tell as long as its fit for its end use. I pay more attention to usability and reliability and for me Sony just isn't there yet. Get the tool that works for you. If fuji it's then great if Sony then great. Full frame, APS-C shouldn't even come into it really the formats are so close.
lakkot.b I have your 55 -200 with f4.8 I use it on the X-Pro2 and the X-H1 Also soup with the Canon 5D Mark III which is full frame and the Canon 1D Mark 4 I must be missing out on something because I don’t see what’s all the fuss about full frame, Especially when I think most people can’t tell the difference.
Earl Rogers Jr you may not be able to tell the difference in some situations, but whenever the light is not ideal it really shows. My girlfriend cannot really the difference between the bodies when I give her a camera to shoot me a portrait, but she unmistakably picks up which photos were done with Sony, the IQ is really noticeable. When I really cannot tell the difference is when I have some landscapes on a not too sunny day when the whole photo fits into the middle of the histogram. In most other situations the Sony clearly wins one over
Thanks for the comments about cameras being tools and you being the photographer. Some people say, "oh, I don't like that camera because it can't/doesn't do ." Part of the fun, for me, is working within the limitations of the camera. Take this Konica C35, all I can do is focus and make sure the needle is in the yellow area? This should be fun.
After 40 years with Canon, I switched to Fuji. Things are getting so complicated, I yearned for the simpleness of yesterday. All I want is a manual aperture, manual shutter, and manual ISO dial. I was very sad to say 'goodby', but at the same time, I was happy to say 'hello'.
I'd love to meet you here in Hull.
Leica
Ali Shadpour :)
Yeah seriously, that's why I switched to Leica for anything that wasn't work.
I decided to go with cameras from (mostly) before I was born now (which would be late '80s). Not to be hipster about it, but your comment resonated with me in terms of the simplicity. - Just grab that good enough camera, use a nice lens, composition/focus/aperture/exposure, slam the light onto the strip, oh and don't forget to advance the roll. ;P - Though I will admit being considerate of the film, with its characteristics such as color/contrast-balance and ISO and all that, is a bit of a headache, it's also part of the fun and creativity.
Preach, you opened my eyes a bit in the sense of brand loyalty problems and the “color science”. Thank you.
You're welcome:)
This was a fantastic video, thanks for this. I recently switched from long term canon use to a Sony system and I felt a lot of the things you did. I chose it as the correct tool for the job and it’s doing such a good job at delivering. Did I have to adjust some of my presets to cater to Sony’s colours? Sure, but the user experience and efficiency of getting the initial shot is 10x better. Definitely worth the minor hurdles for getting the job done.
Although I'm slightly infatuated with Fuji, your switch makes completely sense given your needs. Very well articulated discussion.
I was hesitant to click on this video and actually watch the whole thing, but I'm incredibly glad I did. I appreciate your pep talk about not getting attached to brands and not overly depending on gear for getting "my" look in pics. To be honest that's a problem I've been dealing with lately but you put it into words quite nicely. Thank you!!
I loved this. Sean is one of the few channels that actually talks about photography instead of gear. A strange phenomenon I’ve discovered is that when a new camera comes out, there’s thousands of reviews of it, yet very very few videos that just highlight the content these cameras are creating. I’ve seen thousands of A7S3 reviews, but only a few videos whose sole purpose is to make art.
As a Fuji fanboy, I support this video =)
It's quite funny how the whole point of this video is about not getting attached to what is essentially a tool, just because it has a certain name attached to it, yet so many people in the comments can't help but say their two cents in quite defensive a manner towards Sean's decision to switch. Sean doesn't care that the tool says "Sony" on it, he just wants the right tool for his purposes. If that happens to be a Sony camera at this point in time, great. For anyone saying "Sony are all about hype", how about going out and using one first? They're hyped right now, but they're worth the hype for the most part. Especially in the case of the A7iii, which packs in a ridiculous amount of well-implemented features and produces fantastic images for the amount of money you're paying. Because let's face it, who doesn't want value for money in this expensive world we live in?
Thanks mate:)
A camera club member suggested to our group to check out Sean Tucker. I'm so glad he did. WOW. No babble, just straight up excellent information. Thank you!
Once you get settled with the Sony, I'm curious to know how you have your custom buttons setup. Can you do a vid on that when you get a chance? Love your content.
Interesting part about the non-emotional aspect of buying and having a Sony A7. I have one, and I'm not only not emotionally attached to it (as I am to other cameras) - sometimes I outright hate it! But then it gives me by far the best sensor (= image quality) for the money, and I can adapt so many old lenses that I'm still keeping it. The lack of lens options that would suit me (and that would be affordable) is still disconcerting for me (and it does not get better). Very good explanations why this is the right tool for you, and everything is quite reasonable - so, thumbs up for this video!
Thanks Christian.
What lenses are most suitable for your style? I spend way too much of my time looking into such things :)
edshotsdotcodotuk - it's not about style, it's more about practical aspects. I want small lenses in a certain range; there are some non-Sony lenses, mainly from Zeiss (e.g. from their Loxia series), that I find interesting, but way too expensive. I'm well aware that full-frame is a challenge in this case, and that the Sony system does not fit the bill for me (as my "primary" or only system - I use the A7 only for old manual-focus lenses).
Christian Augustin have you heard of 7artisans? They've only just started releasing full frame coverage lenses but the pricing is very reasonable and their size is Loxia like. I was really tempted to get the 35mm they have and in the UK it can be had for £160. Looks like they're going to be a Samyang alternative as Samyang have started to push further into the autofocus side of things. I love my old PK and M42 lenses on my A7rii but the adapter adds an extra bulk which isn't always welcome. 7artisans may just be the solution without breaking the bank.
Christian Augustin oh and I meant style of shooting not fashion just to be clear. I don't think many buy the A7 cameras for style points hahaha (although I like their plain modern look myself).
Unlike most equipment review videos on RUclips, the way you presented this subject is quite unique and sincere.
You just got yourself a new fan ! Good job!
True statements. The same thing happens in music. While it's true each instrument has its particular tone, it's the musician and the way he plays which actually define his style. The Fender Stratocaster has been used by so many, but Jeff Beck sounds very different compared to Jimi Hendrix, Robben Ford, or SRV.
To the extreme, the funniest statement is from the good old Keith Richards.
Keith Richards reportedly owns 3000 guitars, and he once jokingly said, "Give me five minutes and I'll make them all sound the same."
Preach
I feel exactly the same way in terms of not being excited but knowing its the right move
About to move from xt2 to a7r3
Rex A I moved from xt1 to a7r2, preferred shooting the fuji but prefer editing the shots from the sony
It is 3:20am and you have such an inspirational story and I am getting up from watching RUclips from my bed and getting on my computer to finish editing some graduation pictures. Thank you man. I forgot this was even about why you switched to Sony
I like your channel because you are speaking and explaining very important part (as for me) of photography that's usually out of frame. There are a lot of guides, overviews, advertising in RUclips but not enough explaining why you should start photography? What is the background, where to take inspiration, and the most important the communication. I just started my hobby but as I have a big experience in communication (international relations, now realty estate agent) I don't have problems but on my country the photographer is usually wired and always not satisfied with fee man))) and they can't communicate and seems like they don't like their job. Your videos are good in explaining that tiny spirit of photography I was looking for. Good luck
...and good luck to you too:)
Garbid, I subscribed to Sean's channel for the same reasons you said you watch his videos. I find many pros photographers do not like what they do; they once loved photography, though. Anyway, good luck
I shoot with a Canon 5D mark IV and take it to work with me every day, but I also bought an a7III and absolutely love it. The ONLY Sony specific lens I own (which isn't even Sony) is also the Samyang 35 f/2.8 -the rest are all adapted Canon lenses ranging from Canon itself, Sigma, and Tamron. I have no plans to sell the 5D and will use it for work and long hikes in the desert even though it is the heavier of the two, because of its massive weather sealing compared to the Sony. The image quality between the two is very close with a very small pixel peeping edge given to the a7III.
Randy Dietmeyer same I shoot with Canon 5D Mark IV but I bought Sony A7RIII with Samyang 35f1.4 FE thats the only lens I have for Sony. I still have 6 lenses for Canon and only 1 for Sony. I still like my 5D Mark IV for wedding work but I also bring A7RIII as second body with MC-11
Do you notice any loses using the adaptor and not a native lens?
I absolutely love your RUclips videos. I have been shooting photography since 1978 and I still learn so much from you.
I, too, didn't even think about Sony as a professional level option even though I was happy with their point-and-shoots. I was a die-hard Nikon guy until I had to upgrade. Sony's great eye focus caught my 'eye' so I switched to Sony. I'm sure many will switch back and forth, especially when Nikon and Canon release their professional level mirrorless in the near future.
I hope you enjoy shooting with Sony. After a 10 year hiatus from photography where I owned Canon gear prior to my break, I've never regretted my choice to invest in Sony gear. That Samyang 35mm pancake lens is probably the most used and cheapest lens I use on my Sony bodies - what a little beast it is. Super light and super sharp across the frame - I absolutely love it! I also have and love the 85mm F1.8 you've got - another relatively cheap lens that produces mind-blowing results.
Total beginner here ...
1. Never have I agreed and disagreed to something this fast. I hear what you are saying about emotional attachment to your tools and instruments and yet its difficult!
2. Never have I subscribed to a channel so fast!
3. Cleared a lot of doubts even before getting the gear in hand!
Thank you
I'm an enthusiast who shoots Fuji, which I think is great; however, I'm also a business person/consultant (not in photography). You have made a solid, dispassionate BUSINESS decision that makes total sense based on the facts at hand. And, as you have stated numerous times, your talent matters far more than the platform/tool. Keep up the good work! I'm sure the Sony photos will be great!
Thanks mate.
I was so excited when the A7ii came out. I couldn't believe how good the EVF is and how customizable the layout is not to mention the image quality. Still excited about my Sonys. On some level it's probably because I don't find myself thinking about the camera as much as systems I've had, I see my camera and I just think about making images.
With all the custom buttons I truly LOVE my Sony. All the fuss over confusion menus I find overblown and the options are just wonderful. Only thing I don't care for on the sony is where the lens release button is placed, having large hands it's tight in there and I cant' figure why they didn't put it on the other side where there's tons of room to get at it.
Best reflection on photography versus gear. My journey: Leica (father's camera in 1969 - blown away by the bw contrast) > Olympus (OM2 from Japan - elegant, light, the early "Fuji") > Canon (AE1 - technology) > Sony (A7III - rekindled my love of photography), with a few others here and there. Print/Slide film, DSLR, Mirrorless. Love them all, but am not brand loyal. I am loyal to my wallet, my happiness and exploratory nature. Heartfelt thanks, Sean.
My first and only camera (I just recently started) has been the a6300. All my photograph friend were like: nooo go to canon or nikon, but I was happy with the specs of it, and have not regret it for a second. Hopefully as I get better I will upgrade to a body like these.
Zoddex a6300 is a great camera that is easy to take around. The only apsc from canikon id be willing to trade that for is the d500, which is not nearly as easy to run around town with. Happy shooting man enjoy getting into this crazy world of photography 👍🏻
Thanks man!
Why bother?, I still have the A6000; never felt the need to upgrade, better ISO performance, faster focusing etc really do not add to the competent photographers work. Fact is most pro's take hundreds of snaps and only keep maybe 1% of those anyway; unless of course you take regular sports photos in which case you may well need that extra edge and fear of losing the money shot.
Zoddex they prolly said that cuz the a6300 is prolly better than there cameras lol. The supersamplee video on those a6300+ and a7ii+ cameras is so sharp
Lee Cason exactly! That and the silent shooting! 👌🏽👌🏽
Aside from the most consise rationale as to "why" I have heard... you sir, are a class act.
your opening shots, those textual insertions, and the muzik in background... magical.
This is so perfectly put together: Sony is the reasonable choice while it took out all the emotion out of photography. Same reason I sold all my Fujifilm gear as I am about to shoot more video and needed the a hybrid camera. I still miss my Fujifilm gear.
M JP Have you considered the Xt3?
I love the small size of the Sony kit I've put together. It's just a single a7III, the Zeiss Batis 25 f/2, the Sony 85 f/1.8 and the Tamron 28-75 f/2.8.
My entire kit can fit very easily in my backpack with some room to spare and whether I'm going on a trip with my girlfriend or just going down the street to take some photos and videos, I can carry a single backpack and be able to capture just about anything I want.
Sounds like a solid travel kit.
Lifelong Nikon shooter and I love how unbias you are. You're a mentor for a lot of budding photographers. I will continue to shoot my Nikon, but it's mostly an ergonomics thing. I appreciate the fact you don't belittle any of your viewers.
Good luck with switch Sean. Like me and many others found out sony aren't worth the hype for total dependency. After 1yr usage I moved back to Fuji.
I'll just have to see what happens.
Sean Tucker No one needs a hype camera, it's not the status symbol we are after we are after the exciting journey of creation. And for that we need a canvas in other words a big ass sensor with 14 stop dinamic range and for heavy commercial work a medium format sensor with 16 stop dynamic range and definitely a brain with good amount of grey matter so that we can enjoy the journey of creation.
Yeah I also tried Sony, great image quality if your shooting sports cars or products, but I just couldn’t get my skin tones to work as my Canon and Fuji, the colour gamut also was a bit off for me. But I did enjoy the AF and I thought the Ergonomics where not that bad once you customise. But I’m with you
Sean, Your content is superb. All the best! Half a million subs is coming soon :D
Thanks for this pep talk. I have to switch to a new system and the last part was the last push that I need. Thank you!
I like this argument. It makes me change my mind to change my gear. I think i should hold my gear a little longer and learn about photography more.
"I wasn't excited about moving to Sony as a brand, but I was 100% at peace that it was the right decision." - I feel you here
p.s. Great video, so honest and fair to all brands.
This video is 5 years old and the message still applies today in 2024. I’m not a professional photographer, I’m just a hobbyist - but much of this applies to all of us. Thank you!
Sean, you may never read this comment but I'll say it anyway. You definitely have a gift - your videos are like cool, thoughtful, engaging stories. I am a brand new content creator and I hope to be able to take even a little bit of your your style and skill and make it my own in the stories that I want to share. Oh yeah, and the info on your gamer choices is very insightful as well. A sincere Thank You!
I like your mindset....I am leaving my canon 6D for the Sony A7iii and not looking back! Thanks for this.
Gerry Pocha I am on Canon 6 D as well. So curious to know what your experience with the switch is now? I have some third party lenses (Sigma and Tamron) - do they work wonderfully with the Sony adapter? Did you consider the Canon EOS R?
Your explanation is as clear as a sharply focused photograph. Thanks for your time and effort.
My journey to Sony was similar in terms of kit, and indeed the reasoning behind the decision to switch from Nikon. The biggest deal breaker for me was the lack of dual cards on the new mirrorless offerings. I shoot weddings and I’m not prepared to compromise. My A7R3 arrives this week.
This resonated with me so much. I went through the exact same process, and had the same feelings when I nostalgically left Nikon, and transitioned to Sony. That said I could NOT be happier about making the move, I also went with the A7iii. Also couldn't agree more with editing being just as (if not more) important as the shooting you do as a professional.
This is the best and honest review regarding camera brands and gears on how to choose them.
Honestly, i understand where he's coming from. I First started shooting with my dads old Minolta on film, i eventually picked up a Canon T2i, loved that thing and to this day i use it for product photography for my own company. I haven't really been able to enjoy photography as much as i used to (i literally shoot the product, edit it. upload it and move on. no excitement there) For that reason, I'm now in the market for a Fuji X-E3 because it fits my current bill. I want something versatile where i can shoot some short videos, take great pictures for travelling all in a small package. and something about that old retro look brings me back to when i used to use my dads old Minolta, so im super excited to pick one up.
One thing i don't understand is how people can have such childish attitudes. They buy a camera based on recommendation, that person switches to something else and they feel betrayed and lash out. WHO CARES. You buy what suits YOU at the time. EVERYONE will change gear at one point or another. Thinking that because they recommended particular gear to you that they now have to use that gear forever to keep you happy is the most closed minded thinking i've come across.
Stay humble people and do what makes you happy.
So putting it short: all depends on what you need. If you only shoot stills, you don't need a Sony unless you mainly shoot sports. And yes, you can actually work as a professional photographer with an APS-C camera. Thank you for the honest video.
Subliminal response, but Sony A7/A6xxxx models cover all situations that you may encounter, bar none
I've been having so much internal conflict about which camera and lens kit I should buy, and because of this video I realize now that whichever set I choose to purchase, it is my work that I will focus on shining through, and not my gear that will make it shine. Thanks a lot! Full send on subscribing from this.
The best video all around for who is on the fence between all the mentioned brands!!! I narrowed to Sony A7iii
Excellent coverage of your subject. I especially want to shoot more with the gear I have and progress in my skills. Thank you for this very helpful blog.
Thank you so much for taking the time to share your experience. I've been 'Canon Loyal' for 20 years and I'm days away from switching to the Sony system. You've reminded me of why I love to shoot, why I teach, and that what we photograph with is simply a tool for expression. I keep telling my photographer friends leaving Canon is like leaving an old friend and I've learned I'm not alone in that. Thank you again. Keep shooting!
I actually switched from Nikon to Sony a couple of months back and faced the same "nostalgia" about my Nikon gear. I realized that they'd served me for years, taught me so much and I wouldn't be the photographer I am today without that gear, so it was very sad to say "goodbye"
Totally understand that feeling:)
whoisvjm hey! Sorry to bother you... are you loving Sony? I’m thinking about switching to Sony as well (from Nikon )
I have to say this to you! This is the best gear video i have ever seen so well explained and detailed. I feel exactly the same way as you, i have a C100 a Gh5 a 5d mark2 and the sony can do all of that in one camera. I feel very identfied!
Good advice. Back in the 1980’s my photo Professor gave us students these really Cheap plastic cameras that used 120 film. After putting the film into the camera we had to use Black Electric tape to seal up the back door to keep it light tight. Since the lens was made of plastic as well we were all going to get different results. So, she taught us that it was up to us to be as creative as possible and in the end it is not the camera but our own imagination that made the image count.
Thank you Sean, this was very useful for me. I am also dissapointed with Canon and I plan to switch to Sony very soon. I agree that the camera type is not the most important thing, but honestly it is just starting to be too painful to continue working with Canon dslrs because of so many limitations for people who do both - photo & video. I look forward to buying a Sony A7III and see for myself if it is really as good as people say.
I have zero regrets making that very switch. I sold most of my Canon lenses but many can be used with an adapter if you want to hang on to them, eye AF even works, what doesn't work though is video AF with Canon glass.
What did it for me was Canon's mirrorless release, the EOS R. I think mirrorless is the way to go, especially if you are interested in packing light. And I wanted Full frame for similar reasons. But the EOS R is a joke. You mentioned they deliberately hold back features and they did that in a major way. Sony, on the other hand, gave us way more features that anyone was even hoping for with the a7iii
Watched around 1000 videos about photography in last 3 years. This is one of the best! True words!
Good message for a 38 year old beginner.
Keep posting. You're doing a service. Kudos!
Very well said Sean!
He speaks so! Well
You are so right about buying a brand and sticking with it and "showing it off" at every moment because it is known to be a good brand, rather than perfecting the craft with whatever we have at the time, and moving up or over when it is time to do so.
The best solid Advice one can ever get as a photographer! Thank you Sean for such an authentic review that was full of integrity !
I follow a lot of Fuji photographers, because I find they have a style of photography that I admire, and inspire to have myself. That’s how I found you Sean. Do I care you’ve moved to Sony? No not really. I love your street and landscape photography (sorry portraits don’t really do it for me). I don’t care what you got it with. Glad you’ve found a system that suits your needs.
Thanks for a mature comment:)
About to invest in a Fujifilm x-t3. Feels like the right choice right now. Thanks for the support. Good advice.
Absolutely fantastic video Sean, I love all of the thoughts you've shared. This was totally neutral, unbiased, to the point, no bullshit information, which seems so rare in the incredibly elitist and gear-focused world of photography, which is probably only second in that regard to the world of cycling (ask me how I know). Cheers my friend, all the best to you.
100% agree. In my 1st photography class, my teacher said "Invest in the glass" not the body.
Glass matters. I started acquiring Nikon lenses in the '80s, and that still influences what I do today. Have certain ones I adore and use across three different brands of bodies depending. If you want to fall in love and find beguilement in the mystique and cachet of a piece of gear, lenses are where it makes a bit of sense, because they all have a certain personality.
Very inspiring and one of the most comforting responses to “what camera fulfills my needs?” Thank you!
As usual, very honest and well articulated. As you know from (too) many conversations, I’ve just added an Olympus EM1 Mkii into my mix. Does it mean that I love my Fuji X-Pro1 any less? Of course not. In the end, they are both just hammers.
... and there are nails which need hitting:)
This is truly one of the most insightful videos I have ever seen as a photographer. Thank you so much for making this. 🙏🏻
I also use the Samyang 35 f2.8 and I love it. It stays on my camera a lot. As for colour, colour changes are a lot easier in photo than video. Video doesn't record in raw for most consumer cameras. You'd need an external recorder for that.
I find you to be such a thoughtful soul. I enjoy your videos immensely. Thank you
So glad I've found your channel. You are a terrific artist and an equally great teacher.
My 1st camera was a T2i. Loved it with the 50mm 1.8
I moved to the A6000, then the A6300, then The A6500. I now use 2 A7iii's for my hybrid shooting. Those 2 camera bodies and about 4 lenses cover everything I need. One bag and a few lights and monopod and I'm out the door. Ive been using Sony for about 6 years now. Love your content. Keep it up!! One question. What are some likes and dislikes about the A7iii now that you've used them for a bit? Just curious
You have me convinced and I know what you mean about being emotionally attached to your camera Sean. My 5D mark iii is my baby. !
Such a versatile photographer surely needed a versatile camera.. i understand your choice of Sony. Anyway, you are one of the photographer that confirmed my choice of the XT20. Which is the camera that fits me. 🤗
As a newby and very much on the learning curve I absolutely loved the emotion you expressed and technical detail you went into. I’m wanting to buy more gear for both stills and video and I’m concerned about going too hard into one brand. This has been really insightful.
Excellent arguments. Moved from Canos EOS 400d to Fujifilm XT3 and i have no regrets :). i cannot agree more for using this camera to get more photos on a daily base
I think a lot of stuff with with switching is brand loyalty. I have shot with Nikon for 18 years and I at one point was very loyal to Nikon but I realised around 2013 that Nikon really didn't care about their customer base and that was re-enforced with the release of the D600 in 2014 and subsiquently by the big price rises Nikon as put on their products.
I also felt that Nikon was going in the wrong direction with their mirrorless system. I really disliked the Nikon 1 system and around that time I tried out the X-E, which whilst technically not a great camera, was fun to use.
With Nikon's continuing differing with mirrorless, I naturally looked to Fujifilm when I wanted a mirrorless camera and I bought the X-H1.
Now the reason I went for the X-H1 over the Sony a7III was because I hate the ergonomics of the Sony, it has got better but the X-H1 was so much nicer and now days the experience of doing photography is as important as the photos themselves.
Now, the X-H1 had various problems upon release and most have been fixed. The only issue I can't get over is the EVF, when shooting studio portraits, which isn't a Fujifilm problem, more of a mirrorless issue. I know I can change the EVF viewer settings so I can use shoot with strobes but boosting the gain, does make the EVF look horrible. So I went back to my D800 and probably won't be giving up my DSLR any time soon.
Your point about the emotional investment in a camera system is huge and really something to think about. I'm wobbling really hard right now on possibly switching camera systems and this made me realize that this is a huge hang upi have right now. Thanks for the perspective, it's going to help my decision making process.
Great story. Thoroughly enjoyed it. I relate to your points about excess emotional connection with gear, and the need to work against that, lest it be a handicap. There is, of course, the aspect of investment / sunk cost / financial inertia, which limits the rate we can change gear. But the risk is mentally misreading that commitment as some kind of personal or tribal identity, and therefore staying with it longer than makes sense. Thanks.