Too many: 1. Cheapo ball heads. 2. Camera straps 3. Strobes 4. Legacy M42 lenses 5. Old, low capacity (below 500GB) hard drives 6. Flashlights - I get a three pack every time I am at Costco. Reason, they become useless once the batteries are corroded due to lack of use!!
Insurance is the thing I avoid. Two reasons: 1. I appreciate the discipline of assessing my environment and responding accordingly, this in the knowledge that, should I get it wrong, it's all on me. 2. I feel no need to susidize others for their lack of awareness or carelessness. Does this cost me? Yes... but it would either way and I prefer to own my actions, for better or worse.
Large aperture primes; from wide angle to telephoto; I believe that unless you specifically work with portraiture or as a BBC photographer you don't need a GM 85mm 1.4 II or a GM 600mm f4. My go to would be old prime lenses if one wants to, which is what I did, I bought a Minolta 50mm 1.7 and a Minolta 85mm 1.4, both are fantastic and have better transition at f-5,6-f10 than the lenses of today that basically delete anything else behind the focus point.
Brand name only stuff …Really Right Stuff L bracket ($120) …Amazon special for the same camera ($40) with no real difference. It is a hunk of aluminum that allows me to use my camera in two orientations on my ball head. I would apply the same logic to ball heads and tripods (Gitzo!). There is always a great middle ground option if you don’t care what the name badge says. Second would be cheap screw on filters. The one area I choose to invest a little more money is my filters. I buy nice glass …I am not going to buy cheap filters. I prefer the Maven magnetic filters.
I think that it’s really important that other people buy new cameras and lenses, that they don’t really use enough, and then in five years I can buy them at a substantial discount.
Well, that's what marketing is all about isn't it. To convince you that unless you upgrade your life will practically have no meaning, and they are doing a damn good job by the looks of it.
Agree Bionic , Years ago when I started in Photojournalism all my gear was pre loved and all the lenses were as good as new. A note, lenses are expensive but outlast the cameras generally.
It's true, in a way. The photos modern cameras make possible would have required impossible technical abilities in earlier times. A sharp, perfectly focused image of a bird in flight, for instance, would have been a major tour de force for someone working with a manial focus, manual exposure camera. With a sophisticated modern camera, not such a big deal.
@@ingopaul1569Your analogy actually argues against your point. Electronic keyboards make writing much faster, and it could be argued that this improves writing quality by expediting the capture of ideas. Copy and paste, for instance, save so much time compared to writing with a stylus. The same is true with insert and delete. This argument is even more compelling when applied to photography. Cameras with functions such as high fps, auto-exposure, auto-focus and eye focus make it possible for a competent photographer to consistently acquire images that would be impossible, or highly unlikely, using a camera lacking those features.
On Filters: Clear filters are advisable when photographing things that can damage your lens. Examples: 1. in a workshop where welding, sanding, and cutting take place. 2. Near a smelter where liquid metal is being poured, 3. High wind in deserts where blowing sand can scour optics. I have photographed in all three of these situations and have gotten pits or abrasions in the filters. Filters are a lot cheaper than a 2k to 3k lens. You get the idea.
2nd to this. Over the years, it can damage the front element, heck day to day usage if you are not careful of the environment even dust n sand can get in unknowingly (nearby contruction sites particularly)
@@maggnet4829 The lens hood will only work on tele lenses. On a wide angle they are nearly worthless because they are much too small. Lens hoods are also a problem if you are travelling with a very small camera pack. You either have no space for them or you need to mount and unmount them all the times. I sometimes need to take photos during rain. I prefer not to wipe the front lens for every picture but instead a filter. Also it helps in cramped surroundings where you easily smash it into something. I have some filters with scratches here and even one which is destroyed. The lenses are OK. Only one filter threading got a light dent one time. I only take them off if I have a very controlled situation where I really need the best quality.
@reinhard8053 You are probably speaking about ultra wide angle lenses. Lens hoods find their limit there, but that's not the realm of people who would ask for advice on this matter. Filter is a tricky topic for those lenses, too. Plenty don't even have filter threads. Risk of vignetting another one, and probably you actually want to use a square filter for those. The glass of most filters is less sturdy than that of the actual lens, but it is likely it got streched because it was in front and not protected by a lens hood. I'm using the chunky Sigma 28-45mm f1.8 in a rather small camera bag. I keep the lens hood mounted when it's in the bag. The only lens where I actually unmounted the lens hood during transport was the Sony 200-600 (which is ridiculously big). Since I sometimes place the camera and lens on the floor, I'd still 100% screw the hood back on once taken out of the bag. I'm fairly often bumping into things, admittedly, and all my lens hoods show scratches on the end. My lens glass, however, is prestine. Proper care while cleaning is key here.
I have been a professional photographer all my life, doing a lot of motorsport. When touting for business people would often say 'it's alright,my wife has a camera'. My reply was frequently 'I have a pair of scissors, it doesn't make me a dressmaker'.
There is a difference - as a photographer you face the "million monkey problem", because now everyone is equipped with a camera via smartphone, but not with scissors. And those millions of people take many millions of photos every day - and 10 of them (that will be widely published) will be better than what you would consider a "once in a career shot" - every day. So people see amazing photos taken by amateurs every day - how could they not think that it's easy, or that anyone can do it, or that professional photographers also take extraordinary shots only by chance (which, to be honest, is half the truth for any great shot).
The UV filter on my lens, which broke, recently saved the lens from damage when it took a knock. I’ll be continuing to use such filters for that purpose!
I have one on my TTartisan 27mil. It's my edc so i don't want to put on a lens cap. Much quicker when there's something i want to take, so I don't have the hassle taking off the lens cap.
How can you be sure the filter saved the lens? Filters are far more fragile than the lenses and there is a good chance the lens would have survived without the filter.
Careful with these tips, you might make some enemies. Rick: Anything with photography written on it incurs a crazy markup... Just like 'wedding' Wedding Photographers: He's onto us, get him!
I was on Brighton beach last week and took a fall...thankfully i had the lens hood on my R5 & 24-105...it 100% did the job...my lens lived to snap another tale....now my knees?? They are still bruised....
My lens hoods are always attached, reversed in my bag, properly when I shoot. They not only protect lens (and threads!) but also unwanted extraneous light and glare - whether from sunlight or spot-lights. I can't endorse tossing a lens into a camera bag without the lens cap, either. Every bit of care matters and if you get a bit of grit in your bag, it can damage your front element, especially if you don't have a UV or NC filter on the front.
someone on a recent social photo walk criticised my usually reversed lens hood. He said if you never use it why bother? Well, it takes up minimal space and when I do need it to rminimise lens flare, it's there
Same story here, lenshood saved my 14-30/4 and I took the big hit against the rock with my forehead instead (slippy leaves) - concussion an blue eye for four weeks, but lensok 😂
I used to carry my photo equipment in a backpack when travelling. I got tired of sore backs and bought a well-known brand wheel case with a retractable handle. It fits in overhead storage on aircraft, and it has saved my back, and it reduces travel fatigue.
@@samskeeter1 I carry a camera on a long, wide neck strap, with the camera on my side and with one lens on long hikes. The roller case is for traveling and goes from home to airport to hotel. If I am on a vehicle-photo shoot, it stays in the back of the auto. I don't have a need to use it over rough terrain. My old backpack really got heavy and started hurting my back when I traveled.
I think we all do different things with our photography, and so we all need different tools. I saw a video of a ex National Geographic photographer that these days uses a wheel case like yours for travelling. He then just leaves it in the hotel and takes what he needs on the day in a small side bag he sticks in his suitcase. This seemed to be a nice idea and seems to work for him. Me, I like a backpack. And I find that if I don't take my stuff with me, it doesn't get used. And if it doesn't get used, what is the point in having it? Yes, my backpack is really quite heavy at about 9kg. But a lesson I learned from a previous hiking expedition I did when I was young is that when you carry a heavy bag for a while, after a few days you get used to it and you will stop paying attention to it. Your body quickly builds the muscles and adapts to the extra weight. At the end of our hiking trip I really stopped noticing I had the very heavy pack we were all carrying. It just became part of me. I guess my body thought I had gained weight and just adjusted accordingly. These days, I work from home. As I don't get the exercise of going into the office any more, instead I do a daily hour long walk with my girlfriend to the local park. A few times a week I will take my camera backpack with me, not because I intend necessarily to take pictures, but because I want keep my body used to carrying the weight. Yes, I do notice it is a bit heavy when I first put it on, but 10 minutes later and it no longer bothers me. I have become used to the weight. Now when I go on photo walks, I am quite happy to carry the backpack, and I have all the gear I need at my disposal. However, if I go into town, I will generally carry a much smaller shoulder bag, as the environment there means I don't want to carry a big, bulky backpack that might knock into people.
Great video. I think an exception to - it’s not the equipment, it’s the photographer - is wildlife. You need lots of megapixels for cropping in on distant subjects. You need great autofocus. You need focal length. And you get much better results with 20-30 FPS on moving subjects. Then, the artistry comes in in Lightroom!
You need different gear for different photography styles. For wildlife you can have all those things and still get bad images, so yes, to get impactful nature photographs it's always the photographer; how you understand the light and the wildlife's behavior to get impactful images. Remember the objective is not to capture images of something but about something.
Ergonomics and workflow is another big area where the saying breaks down. I've gotten great photos off my T1i....but I'm SO excited about getting a modern mirrorless for Christmas because the screen will be articulated for the weird angles I love to shoot from, I'll be able to better judge if I got the shot from the screeen, it'll be lighter, and I won't have to go through a multi-step process including SD card adapters to transfer things from my camera to my iPad for editing. That I'll have more MPs to play around with when cropping, significantly better AF, and that I won't be struggling as much with dynamic range, are kind of just the cherries on top compared to the rest.
I like aircraft and Motorsport photography (but also have interests in landscape and street) and used to use an old bridge camera that I did get some decent results in but I had to get the subject perfectly in frame because there was just not enough pixels to crop in and the memory buffer only allowed bursts of about 6 shots. This Christmas I switched to a mirrorless setup with a 100-400mm lens as well as a 12mm lens some filters, tripod and a couple other things that my dad was going to sell but gave to me instead. Faster focus, bigger memory buffer and those things will help with Motorsport and aircraft but it's not going to make me a good photographer but I won't have my hands partially tied and I'm enjoying experimenting with the lenses and stuff I have getting some effects that I couldn't do before and I'm having a lot of fun doing so and that's what really matters
I'm going to differ with you a bit, regarding camera body upgrades. Recently upgraded my Sony A7iii to an A7RV, and I've been delighted with the improvement in my images. The A7RV's autofocus is light years ahead of the A7iii. The image stabilization is better. And the 61MP sensor simply captures more detail. A one-generation upgrade may not be worth the money, but if you can jump two generations, you will definitely see improvements in image quality and ease of use.
Tripod comments are right. I was in another state and was asked to video an event but hadn’t bought my tripod. I went to the local hardware store and found a Bosch tripod (for a level or theodolite) for around $49. Perfect. As you say if it had a photography tag it would have been at least double or more.
I would recommend checking out the refurbished gear on the manufacturer’s website when you do need to purchase a lens or camera body and wait for a sale on that site as well. Often you get the same warranty as a new one and the manufacturer did the refurbishment. All of my cameras I have owned, I have bought either used or refurbished. I have never had an issue and I have saved a lot of money. I agree about your point on bags that can be a money pit. I currently use a Thinktank travel style bag and it works great. I’ll keep it until it falls apart. Thanks for the good video!
Great stuff, Rick. I would have to agreed with most. I only add a comment on to camera bags, as I often tell people unless you have a “standard torso,” what ever measurement that is, many backpack won’t fit a longer or shorter torso. I know that is one thing that has disappointed many buyer and pushes people towards the higher end bags with adjustable straps. As you said, once an item has “photography” put on it, it certainly increase the price and the perceived need.
I have "cheap" camera backpack - not waterproof and not a premium brand. However, what I love about it is that I was able to adjust where the straps are attached on the bag. When I did a lot of backpacking, that feature was absolutely critical on any ruck sack you bought, to keep the weight properly distributed.
Camera bags, Grrr! I use 3, depending on circumstance. I have the big backpack that takes everything, but don't want to carry it further than out to the car! A little 10 Litre sling bag (lovely!) that takes a camera & 2 lenses, and a tatty (vintage look, unbranded) backpack with a cube in. The big bag stays in the car with all the bits (well hidden) and I just take the stuff I'm planning on using! (APS-C camera & lenses, so not too mighty) Another fun video, thanks!
Thanks!! I’m running 3 as well (or is it 4?!) and I still feel like there’s something missing… like something isn’t quite right. Need another, clearly 🙄😂
On lens, I find what stops me from buying the latest and greatest is looking at the shots I do take with my current gear, the shots I want to but can't take reliably, and the shots I almost never take.
The only one of those you won't convince me about is a UV filter, apart from really cheap ones. I used to work in a camera shop, so I've seen what repair to a front element can cost. Yes, a lot of the time a lens hood will save the lens, but you only need this to go wrong once. I'd rather keep that money to spend on petrol/ train tickets to get to a location. Each to their own though.
One of my friends is a fairly accomplished landscape photographer with a decent following. I asked him what his favourite piece of photography gear was and he said it was a camper van. i.e. it's the thing that gets him to the landscape to take the shot vs any camera or lens.
I bought the 70-200 F4 G years ago for my travel photography. I also got the 24-70 GM and the 16-35 GM. On other people's advice. I did get some great shots on the Euro-tour I got the gear for. No complaints. But over the last few years I learned to shoot differently and have recently purchased the Tamron 28-200 and that pretty much lives on the a7R3 full-time now. I'm getting close to just trading in the others, since I haven't used them since pre-COVID.
I use the Lowepro Pro Tactic 450 II, fits my needs perfectly. Good protection when snowmobile riding, skiing, flying, hiking or in the city. Holds my gear two bodies (1 dx mark iii and a 7d mark ii) and three lenses (14mm, 24-70mm and 60-600mm) with room for other stuff as well.
Good video. I've been an urban photographer for many years and have used a backpack exactly one time, when I was first starting out. It's completely unnecessary. You just need one camera and at most two lenses. A simple shoulder bag will do the trick and it doesn't even need to be a photo bag - I've used an inexpensive messenger bag for years.
I use a lens hood and only a polariser if required. I agree on the ND grads, they were essential on film photography not so on digital. The best money I spent on photography was on a 2 x day course on wedding photography over in Weymouth. Nick Stubbs was his name, I learnt so much and I nailed the wedding I was tasked to do. The worst money I spent was on a street photography course in London. The instructor turned up with a raging hang over, arrogant, and only interested in the 'young' females on the course and I learnt nothing new. Thanks for video!
LOVE your video! I was prepared to be defensive…but you’re spot on! 100% agree on borrowing or renting lenses. IF you find yourself renting many times, buy the lens, otherwise, save the money. 😊
Regarding bags, I can recommend the LowePro Flipside 200. Probably the happiest I've ever been with a bag. Space is limited, tho. Also, the 70-200 2.8 is probably my most valuable lens when shooting candids at events. Then again, the 70-180 2.8 which is half the price would do very much the same thing.
Rick, you perfectly illustrate how bags are entirely subjective. I have both sizes of the PD Everyday Back Pack and have no issue with comfort of either of them and love the way they can be used without even taking them off. With you on lens caps - lost mine years ago, they are not missed. Tripods and photography - Nigel will tell you how essential they are. Stabilisation isn't an issue, but framing is. Lock the framing with a tripod and wait for conditions. So many more reasons too. Be well.
That's interesting, I despise mine 😂 That's true about tripods - I guess that element is, again, subjective. It all comes down to how you shoot. Not sure I have that level of patience!!
I've had the Nomatic McKinnon backpack for several years and I've found it to be a useful investment, even though it was chagrin-level expensive. I definitely haven't had any comfort issues with it. On the contrary, the straps design has ensured a supportive fit that I can wear all day. Note that I'm not advertising or encouraging anyone to buy it. Starting at $300, it's still really expensive.
Backpacks are designed to fit a specific body shape. So if it’s comfortable on you, it’s because it was designed to fit your body shape, in particular your width and slope of shoulders. You’ll see good hiking backpacks come in a variety of fits, including women specific fits. So the reason it was uncomfortable on the reviewer is…it wasn’t designed for his body shape. The designers of these photography equipment backpacks have definitely misunderstood what’s important in a backpack - comfort. Fit is principally achieved through the shape and placement of the shoulder straps, but also the shape of the back pad, and features like adjustable chest straps. People come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you can’t have one size fits all.
On the bag front, I found an old padded projector bag, and created my own dividers with a thick $9 yoga matt and some superglue. Fiddly to make, and relatively inflexible, but its so much cheaper to diy. Could easily make one of those cube things this way as well.
Pointing back to your "The Camera Companies don't want you to know this" video reminded me just how great that video was. Truly cured a LOT of my GAS issues. Great post, Rick.
Honestly, right now it's probably a good time for people getting into photography for the reason you mentioned here 09:06 A professional camera back then now costs like an entry level camera with all the quality that it brings. Sure, you might want to start with an easier system first to get familiar with the basics but an upgrade path to a good DSLR is now better than it has probably ever been. With the establishment of mirrorless systems, lenses for mirror cameras will hopefully also become more and more affordable. And as was said, renting is always and mostly a better option. Although I can see the appeal of not wanting to spend 50-100+ bucks on a lens you use for a few days and maybe don't even make money from, when you can try to get an additional 200-300 bucks and buy one used.
One set of gear you need, shoes/boots, pants, a shirt, jacket depending on weather, and just forget the gadgets, and shoot, and compose, and shoot some more. One camera, one lens, and just keep repeating that with another lens. Think we get too caught up in gear, or latest gear, and not enough “ caught up in having fun shooting”. Why we became photographers, 🤔 thinking sometimes we forget the why, and dwell too much on the maybe. I remember why I got into it back during high school. Kept looking around and “seeing images” in my mind, which drove me crazy, till I went out and bought my first set of film camera gear. Then started meeting like minded individuals, and even started the photography club in my high school, developing my own film and B&W photos. Then my love for it grew from there, and I no longer felt crazy. Though as many, being a younging, was slightly caught up in gear after the first little while. Still have my heavy pro tripod (bloody thing, is heavy and massive, extending to almost 6’, and luging that around was nuts), and my F2 , and accessories from back then. Probably can blame that on my neighbour, as he had all the fancy Nikon gear ( he could afford it) and was both a good and bad influence for that. Oh well, live and learn from experiences. Cheers
I began photography in 2023 and I am thankful to have watched a multitude of video like yours about being photographer and not "gear guy". I literally own APS-C camera and 3 lenses that cover the range and use cases I need. it's so tempting looking at those fancy expensive full frame cameras and lenses, but those won't change you as photographer. my whole bag complete with camera, accessories and lenses costs less than a current generation brand new entry level full frame camera and I am ok with it. if I would had to buy an entry level full frame camera with 3 high quality lenses I would have spent 3 times more, about $5000 more to be precise and with all those money you can travel A LOT in Europe, the continent I am in, using trains and short flights. with a 1 to 2 hours flight you can go everywhere and visit vastly different places and cultures.
I think using a lens cap is just prudent, you lose very little from putting on a lens cap before putting a camera or objective into a bag. Tripods are most definitely needed for some types of photography, so this is more a question of "Do I need a tripod for the sort of photography I want to be working with". I find a small camera bag to be invalulable both for organisation and easy access, as well as to keep things safe while going somewhere, but if I was goin to go hiking and had a lot of other stuff with me, I might indeed do something with the actual general bag I would be using for that trip instead, but as I said, for when I just go out to take some photos, like while walking to the grocery store, absolutely needed. I only skimmed through this part though so it might very well be that you are speaking about a specific situation though and not photography in general. The second hand market part is absolutely spot on though, I bought two almost unused camera bags for my Nikon D40x and Nikon d5100 for very cheap and they are brilliant. Took me a bit of puzzling to figure out the best way to organize things but works beautifully now. I have a macro lens because I got a camera to photograph coins initially, haha, but to be honest I use it more as a general lens that has the added bonus of a fantastically low near-focus limit (which is absolutely fantastic as I do a lot of everyday urban or home/community-space sort of photography at the moment where not having such a short near limit would be rather annoying if nothing else). Also have a zoom lens and eventually I want to get a sort of nifty fifty very bright sort of lens as well, after that it gets far too niche and expensive for me. As for the camera upgrade thing, I cant really speak, my newest camera is a d5100, so I am not exactly in the market for the newest stuff available, hah.
Regarding bags, I bought a small day pack at Decathlon when I was in Paris last. It is roomy, comfortable, cost about 35 Euros, and, best part, has a separate compartment at the bottom designed to cool your lunch. But the padding is more than sufficient to protect a camera or lens. It also has a little nylon sheet that is meant as a seat, but in fact works as a clean surface for changing lenses, sorting gear, etc. Combined with a Peak Design Capture clip on the shoulder strap, it is the ideal everyday camera bag.
If you’re interested in evening photography or photos with long shutter speech you definitely need a tripod and I agree with you that don’t go cheap is the right way to go. I’ll find myself 100% in your camera bag story
But camera bags and UV filters are both sub-$100 items that can save you the expense of replacing a $1k lens or $2k camera body. Tripods are necessary for slow shutter speed photography, timelapses, using long lenses, etc. I appreciate the idea of not over-buying but I think most of these items you listed are actually incredibly useful things to have
I think the point is that if you have a real good reason to use any of those items (and often) then they become must haves. If you use it maybe once, meh, perhaps not.
I upgraded from an entry level D3400 to a D500 and am blown away by what I can now achieve just because of the insane autofocus. I can finally get shots of birds flying and squirrels scurrying. Though if I had no desire to shoot fast moving small animals that little D3400 probably would have served all my needs for the foreseeable future.
Completely agree on tripods. For the life of me, I don't understand why the Peak Design tripod is so popular. Yes, it's compact and light. But it's pencil thin legs are very flimsy. You can sneeze on them and they'll flex.
As far as unnecessary (or perhaps just wrong) gear, I would say that one of the things that I think is the right idea, but is not made very well, is padded lens pouches. Although they were cheap, they were a complete waste of money. They were made based on older, more slender lens designs from the film era, and no one has bothered to update the physical specs. If they would update the sizes to match today's lenses, they would be great for using with a regular backpack. As for gear that has become indispensable for me, I've invested a bit of money into a system of quick change plates and receivers for tripod heads. Mine is by Leofoto, and I use the 60mm size - QS-60. If you have need of different tripod heads, this enables you to quickly and painlessly change them out, and they lock down tightly and securely. It's purely a convenience value-add, but very much worth it.
As a middle-aged newbie, still at the early stage of my journey and with a couple of pointless purchases under my belt, this is a great video and I’ve already reconsidered my ‘photography’ basket. Thank you.
I found myself nodding vigorously when you got to the part about photography bags! It's like anything that is supposed to be built for purpose. All of a sudden you will find that the manufacturers of these things will start sticking 0's onto the price! I'm disabled and anything related to disability is just as bad! The electric wheelchair I use is a prime example. If I wasn't leasing it from motability I would have to pay £8,000 for it! By the way, you have a new subscriber! 😊😊
Thanks, appreciated. That's even worse if there's a premium for anything related to a disability - I'm pretty shocked at that if I'm honest (but not all that surprised).
Your opening statement is all foreside-back; the trick is to become as good as you can with the kit you have, analyse honestly whether it's the kit or yourself that's reached a limit; then upgrade when you know 'zackly what you want to acheive.
Great tube - Bags ! Hmm I have a few ! Conclusion the back bag is heavy to lug about & you do tend to fill every crevice - so I Store my gear in it @ home maybe if away pick goodies to take on the day . Favourite Bags are non photo bags For Street tourism etc small shoulder bag gorgeous 1 light SLR with 50mm & 24mm pancake & Canon G7 small pocket camera ( which generally lives in me pocket spare battery & card - For landscapes & general heavier higher Spec SLR 18 -135 zoom & maybe 70 -300 + KF magnetic filters ( in thier Pouch in a wide banded shoulder bag & wrist strap ( G7 still in pocket) tripod I carry on my belt. The above covers me for most things bothered fairly lite to carry & have room for a snack ! In separate compartment - so no crumbs etc on camera gear 😂
I agree with everything except the tripod bit. Get a Sachtler tripod for video, and you will never want to go back. They start at $3000 USD and will last your lifetime and beyond. Don't get it to shoot landscapes, but it will change your life when shooting video. I will also push back on having a card reader, 1: almost always faster than your camera and 2: less wear and tear on your camera. Same for having a battery charger vs charging the battery in the camera. Nice to have but don't make it a habit.
Good accessory would be a geared tripod head in place of a ball head. Yes, a bit bigger, but so much more precise, especially for macro work (but I prefer for whenever I am using a tripod). Another is a sling bag for light trips when you just need a camera and maybe a second lens and a spare battery.
I can see why some photographers would find that useful - I’ve actually never used one (one of the few things I’ve not convinced myself to buy!!). Love a sling bag, however it can be another potential minefield with added ‘photography’ tax!
Great video, thanks. Ive been a pro for 30 years and have a few items that I keep purely because I paid a lot for. Top of the list. The Nikon 85mm shift tilt😬 2nd place Nikon 200-400 F4 great for body building .
9:32 I agree for the most part, but not entirely. Let me explain: The camera could play a big role in Dynamic range and background blur. Compare a full-frame to a micro 4/3rds. Yes a micro 4/3rds sensor can be great, but full-frame looks better for most shots.
It depends on the setting, but for what I do, I'm not sure there's much in it. Especially given the sizes that I publish and print at. Of all my recent images, I'm not sure many people could say which I shot on a Full frame and which I shot on a crop. Never used MFT though so maybe that's more of a difference
There isn’t. I print A3 size from my five-year-old micro four thirds camera. If it’s a good photo no one cares what sensor size it is. And yes I have a camera with a larger sensor but I like the Panasonic better. I can use a Sony A7 IV from work any time I want but I like the Panny better and so I take better pictures with it.
I'm glad to hear what you said about there not being any good camera bags. I thought it was just me. A lot of content creators push a lot of bags, and I've been disappointed every time.
Good advise, The gear is so good now, No longer need a bag full of primes because the zooms are so good, I call my genre Street + so primarily street but versatile. Less but quality ie Z6II 24-120 f4 S and 35 f1.8s, One of these lenses and a spare battery and I am away. I see a long life for this kit too. As you mention insurance is important. Cheers from Australia
Hi Rick. I could disagree about pluggin the camera to the computer. It's an experience I had on my last Canon 80D : transfer was slow when using plugged in camera. So I bought a cheap card reader. And it was way faster. Maybe more recent camera have better transmission rate ?
Vincent, I am with you with “older” cameras. Older USB was definitely slower than popping out the SD card but “modern” cameras with the USB-C goes just as fast if not faster. My Nikon Z6ii is just as fast as my card reader with either the Cafe press or SD card.
My Canon 5D Mk II (a tank of a camera) uses CF cards with 50 pin connectors between the camera and the card. I'm fearful of bending one of those pins deep in the camera each time I remove the CF card, so I generally just leave it in the camera and download the photos directly from the camera to the computer.
Agree completely with your assessments. In fact, I am quite surprised to find someone who thinks as closely as I do. Especially about not needing protective stuff any more. I also just put my camera and lens into my bag and don't bother with lens cap or protective bags. Thanks for the great common-sense video!
Really like your reaction to ND grad filters, never bothered and glad to hear someone else has as much contempt for them, also totally agree on the constant upgrade that we are all advertised towards, I have been a photography teacher for TAFE and really advise students to learn their elements and principles of design for composition, its much cheaper!
I totally agree with this guy. My Cameras are bought 2nd hand. My panasonic fz1000 bridge camera is by far my best camera. No expensive lenses to buy. Light weight and fits into a small bag. Ive just got back from New Zealand and the results were stunning. My other camera a nikon d7200 takes slightly better photos but at a cost. Ive just bought a 400mm lens. £350 Plus ive another 2 lenses, plus a couple of lens pouches and camera bags. Then theirs the weight. To be honest I wish i hadnt bought it. Because my Bridge camera does everything my d7200 does but at a 3rd of the cost.
The two worst things I've bought weren't all that expensive, but I only used them once. I thought doing sports and being outdoors I would need a rain sleeve and also a monopod, but I was wrong. I bought the right sized rain sleeve but it was too big and didn't stay secure, so I now use those cheap, blue, plastic carrier bags and black tape. The monopd was just a total pain to use, so I've stuck to handheld.
I've got a handy hack for camera bags and lens pouches. I used a fishing bag that has molle straps on the outside that allows me to swap out pouches etc as and when I need them. I've got a couple of cheap padded cubes like the one you showed for the main compartment and with them and the swap ability of the molle system I can quickly have all the kit I need for a specific shoot in a relatively small and comfortable bag. Plus the bag has lots of small compartments perfect for memory cards, cables and spare batteries etc It's like having an infinite number of bags.
An excellent alternative to a camera bag when traveling by air is a camera roll-aboard. I own a Neewer 2-in1 convertible wheeled luggage case that can contains 2 super telephoto prime (or zoom) lenses, 2 camera bodies and other odds and ends. It also fits in standard overhead bins. It's a great piece of kit that costs less than USD 200.
Great video, completely agree with the principle of less is more and keep it simple! On bags in particular, dedicated camera bags look geeky, tend to be uncomfortable and advertise the fact that you’re carrying expensive gear around. Any bag you fancy, whether a shoulder bag or backpack (I prefer a shoulder bag for easy access) with a padded liner ( cheap as chips from Amazon) dropped in does the job just as well at a fraction of the price.
Re: taking a tripod as carry-on. That’s fine as long as the airline has a generous carry-on allowance. A lot of the Middle Eastern and SE Asia airlines have a strict 7kg limit for carry-ons (coupled with a generous allowance for hold luggage). I’ve seen Emirates passengers having their carry-on bags weighed at Manchester, for example.
You are right about images depending more on the photographer than the equipment. One of the best I've taken was with a fixed lens Minolta over 50 years ago. Now I depend on my 105mm, 14-24mm, 50mm, and 180-600mm because I can get images that cannot be captured any other way. No backpacks, just take what I need for each endeavor whether it is insects, people, birds, landscapes or architecture. My day use carry bag is over forty years old. I fix shoulder straps to my tripods. My mirrorless camera was a game changer for me.
Diaper Bags with some nice clean diapers inside is the perfect photo bag for carrying in your car straight to the site. Think of it, as sort of a "hidden in plain site" while equipment is unwatched in your vehicle. The clean diapers make a great way to clean up equipment if something goes wront.
I recommend a good quality sling if you use a heavy zoom lens on your camera. My $85.- strap is perfect for my Tamron G2 150-600 model. And it prevents back aches.
The thing I'd suggest is a waste is megapixels - at least above a certain level. I have 40 or whatever, and honestly have discouraged friends who were thinking of upgrades for the sake of more than 20-odd. Their resolution works perfectly fine for me.
I own a lot of camera bags and actually use them all - depends on the shoot. Sometimes I just want to carry one or two lens, cards and battery so hence a small bag. I agree on exotic lens except for me my 100mm macro is my favorite portrait lens. For my long telephoto lens urges I bought a used Sigma 150-600 for $500 and it works just fine. Thank you for hammering in the point about gear obsession! I still shoot with a 12 year old Canon 5D3 and it's still great - have my clients ever complained? Never
Large dedicated camera bags are not necessary. You’re really just carrying your fomo. Understand where you’re going and what you need for that day. That’s it!
My first bag was a Manfroto Pro Light. It was sufficient internally for storage but the outside was bothersome. The shoulder straps were not curved and very much the same on either side so they would flip when putting the bag on. The sternum strap rode too high was in my neck most of the time. The one other problem that annoyed me the most was the hip belt. I backpacked a lot and was use to a nice wide hip belt that rode properly. The Manfroto was so narrow that it just would not sit on my hip. I tried the pack on in the store but without any weight in it. My current bag is the Mindshift Pro Light 40 L. I have had this for 4 years now and all of the previous bag problems are gone. Some essential gear that I believe is a must is cleaning cloths ( mcrifiber), lens wipes, sensor cleaning swabs and appropriate fluid and a blower.
I had a Manfroto bag about 6-7 years ago and I honestly think it's the worst bag I've owned!! So uncomfortable and it pinched my lower back - far from ideal. Yes to the cleaning stuff, but just search 'microfibre cloths' rather the 'camera cleaning cloths' and you'll save some money (aforementioned 'photography tax'!!)
I just retired so I thought I would give photography a try. I just bought the Sony A7RV, Sony FE 14mm F/1.8 GM, Sony 35mm GM f/1.4, Sony 85mm GM 2 f/1.4 and the Sony FE 200-600mm G f/5.6-6.3 Whenever I start a new hobby I hate upgrading later
I am a firm believer in buying something expensive, but with good quality, but one. Like one good tripod, more expensive, but sturdy, same with bags. Use them with care as much as possible and when they are done , then buy next piece of gear.
Doesn't work in a lot of cases. Quite often, the most expensive equipment won't last any longer or work any better than kit that is of a more moderate price.
@@ArmyDr I go with the cheapest thing possible the first time. If it breaks, replace with something higher quality. If it doesn't break, I either didn't use it, or it was good enough. Sadly, expensive is not the same as quality.
1 tripod is not enought. One general use, sturdy tripod for general use, one small that can get really close to the ground for macro (still sturdy enought to fit macro rail on it).
@@anupew3276 For me, it's one heavy and high quality one for the studio when photographing paintings, and a cheap monopod for outdoors. I do have a couple of others I picked up/was given over the years which I use for studio lights.
Tripod is a good point. I had bad GAS about buying a tripod and looked at some in the 200-300 range. One day after i came back from a hike i looked at my photos and i realised that a tripod would not have seen any use for these photos. For camera bag i bought a used Pgytech Onemo 25l (the first version) and it works well and is comfortable.
I got rid of my 70-200 2.8, was too heavy, ever made it into the bag. Also, I recommend the 22L Thinktank Mindshift Rotation 180 bags, they are a game changer, even more so if combined with a capture clip on a shoulder strap.
Well made reflection of all those things which might go into the way! Just my adds: → Protection/Filters = UV filters (high quality) to be cleaned on the fly →Tripods: One is not enough. Lightweight (2kg) Video-Photo tripod (hiking) and older heavier larger stuff →Bags: Some Lowepro ProRunner 200 + 300. Since ~12 years, ordered two additional backpacks 2nd hand to have "spare". Light, two external meshes for water bottles, umbrella or small tripod. →Lenses: 24 - 105, 105 - 400 + two bodies (FF + APS-C (=640mm)) to have a compact universal setup - zooms got so great that I accept them now! →Camera Upgrades: Ergnomics beats feature lists and may be more expensive but it's worth it. Finally I think it is good to have a package which you know very well and which is reliable. But it is also good to have some additional lenses for "special effects" / situations where you need it.
Absolutely refreshing! It's always "This ONE piece of gear will make your photography so much better" or "I can't believe I didn't buy THIS piece of gear earlier!". Finally a video on "Don't buy this..." Thanks for the great content!
I have one good tripod that I never use anymore. I could honestly sell it tomorrow and never miss it. I do like using a monopod with my 200-800 gigantic lens though. As for my bag(s), I bought Amazon Basic bags that work very well for me. Two small ones and one large one that fits my super zoom. I'm also finding the 3-lens rule working well even as I own more than that, I'll never take more than three lenses anywhere. I'm not a pro. I make nothing from my photography. I only do it as I enjoy the learning and getting results that satisfy me and go flip-off to how anybody else sees my photos. There've been many times where I've gotten shots with my phone I've been very happy with that would have taken me too long to get set up for. That's okay too!
Getting this video recommended to me after watching a couple try to make the case that people MUST buy some 28-300mm zoom lens is a nice contrast. Totally agree, just buying expensive stuff that I wouldnt use is idiotic.
I've been cheap and lazy for the most part. I used a camera pouch that I got for $1 ten years ago. I finally got a proper bag two years ago. The Wotancraft 10L Pilot. I love it and that's the only bag I have. I've been using a $30 Velbon tripod for the last 12 years but that's starting to break down. I'm afraid it might fail so it's time to finally get a proper tripod and head that won't break the bank!
One thing i want to tell new photographers is to look into RENTING gear for shoots. Often, you make your money back through the shoot you're using it for
Hi Rick. With the bags for my everyday camera. I moved away from a normal backpack and move to a sling bag and it helps to keep your camera out to reduce the weight on your shoulder still enough room for little bits you'll need
Backpacks are the most silly & stupid thing to carry (if & when u r shooting) in a city over 8M; even in the field/hills u have to drop them on wet/snowy grounds to get at or change anything. The only time they are good is when u r walking. I've been looking for bags for a while. U don't want to pay in blood for sth. like a Billingham which is not that practical anyway (& still use cotton straps?). One of the bags I still have was bought some decades ago when back to the little old college town called Boston; I paid $13 or 16 for this dirty & blk sooty (prob. fire/water damaged) but looked otherwise ok. After washed & dried , it's a fine tough low (9"?) & longish bag. Still looking for some old Domke type & whatever its name in various sizes, & at least one easy for packing away an a7n w/ vertical/power grip & a lens attached. A good camera bag is hard to find & should NOT cost more than a pair of real leather shoes. On the last few 15-hr intern'l flights, in a laptop backpack I had o.c. a 15.6" , a couple of bigger lenses, batteries, chargers , cards & cords, a small body, papers & a small book. At least I don't carry rolls of heavy films any more , & one time I also carry a 100' bulk loader & some reusable cartridges. Never a camera bpk ! In the 90's I managed to carry a Bogen ( l-t agent for Manfrotto) monopod onboard. Haven't tried & shouldn't after 9xx. A nail-clipper is also wea__p_on.
Great video; I agree on all counts, especially tripods, camera bags, and lenses!! 24mm to 70mm is my go-to also, and I rarely go wider or longer. And don't get me started on camera bags and camera upgrades 🙂
Great video. Nice to see you showed a photo from the A7II. I'm still happy with mine and trying to resist the urge to upgrade. Your video helped me to stay resolute.
Bit late to this, on bags, I tend to find that for when I'm "in the field," so to speak, I have opted for a Sling-type bag. I've a 6L sling bag, and the limitations of not being able to bring every single lens along helps focuses the mind. And, the capacity of that bag is enough to bring a portable charger, and some small bits and pieces. And, I can strap a hat AND attach a water bottle to it. A 10L sling would probably be as close to perfect as i would want though.
Bag recommendation: Peak Design Messenger 13L. I've had this bag for 2 months, and it works very well as a briefcase, carry-on, qualifies as a personal item, and is a natural for day trips. It will take a 13" laptop, with room for a smallish body and 2 to 5 lenses. Like everyone, I've got too many bags, but this one is a delight.
Sorry, but UV filters prevent damage to the front glass of your lens. Lens caps are a bother and I only use them for storage when I remove the lens from the camera to protect the back glass on the lens. But, I suppose if you can go out and just buy another lens when you mess up the one you are using it is no big deal but some of us can't afford a replacement whenever we damage one. For a useful camera bag you might try the Lowepro Adventura TLZ20 III Top Loading Shoulder Bag (Black) which protects the camera and has a zipper on top that allows very quick access from the top of the bag. My older Lowpro bag also had loops on each side allowing me to carry an additional lens in an attached padded lens bag and my flash on the other side.
Even with USB-C being more robust than micro I would not want to put the additional strain on the camera port as opposed to just taking the SD card out and putting it in a relatively cheap card reader.
Concerning photo bags, get one or more Tenba BYOB inserts (to cover the different setups that you use) and then use whatever standard (non-photographic) bag or rucksack that is suitable for your outing or trip. I haven't regretting moving from a full-frame DSLR system to micro four thirds. The bodies and lenses are smaller and lighter, and with advancing age they are better for photography when walking and travelling.
For camera backpacks I know they are seen as a fad. But I love my Brevitte backpack. I have had it the entire time I have been taking photos, and have never looked back. It makes me purposely limit the gear I bring. It is comfortable. And for worse or better, it doesn’t look like a camera backpacks.
I have the a7r2 and that body will satisfy most needs. When my camera dies, I will miss it. I do kinda regret getting the 200-600f5.6-6.3, I thought I was going to use it a lot to photograph my son playing football, but the low stadium lights forced me to shoot with the clunky 70200gm Mk1. I wish I would have gotten the 100-400gm, but maybe I will use the 200-600 to capture my youngest playing another outdoor sport.
I use a random bagpack I got at a conference for camera gear, but oddly use the camera bag when going on trips (for non camera stuff). Prefer to travel with "personal item" only and no additional luggage, the bagpack's the perfect size and has optional dividers, place for a tablet, etc. Not as comfortable as the rando bag though.
Even thouh the newest of the newest isn't necessary, I want a second body, so I don't have to switch lenses and I know I can save money on getting a current or older camera, but I will wait and buy the A7V as the second body, makes sense for me.
What will be on a7v , global shutter most people don't need? a LCD screen like a rich brother's, some feature from a6700 & a9 ? I know my 2.5 yr old a7iv will be good for another 8 full yrs. Ever since the earliest electronic (film) SLR cameras days (I can't say the same about all- mechanicals) I've been over-paying for stuff I don't use. Can hardly recall how many few times I used auto. These days, some videos, AF w/ mirrorless (not full time) w/ Auto ISO. Auto iso is So Liberating! My "most reckless" days w/ XP1/ 2 were long over. I grew up on Agfachromes (DIN18)=asa=iso50, the only thing a kid could afford to shoot often (proc. & return postage included) using fixed focals (called primes these days by many "subprimes") to compose w/ feet as tightly as to the teeth. I had some (really) kind words to iso-Monks & iso-100 gurus in some other channel somewhere (don't remember where!). Use of cheap but good TTartisans & my m-mounts(other than the 1.5 crop) on a6 series bodies solves the battery problems too. Manu-lenses don't suck power. These small a6's rigs (running auto-iso) are (almost) like (/ feel like) cheap digital rf-L's on steroid! There is still auto-Aperture for those who prefer. No more spending on big-old-L's (incl. Pan-Lum too?), on the other hand the 5-yr old 1"-wonder sony rx100 vii is selling for $1300. gone up? tempting?
@@user-pg5rt7ju4f I'd be fine with another A7IV as well, but what are you so upset about. Why are you telling me about the entire camera gear history? Is it really that bad that I want to wait for a newer camera to be released? Why would people not like a global shutter, doubt it will have one btw, but I'd like a global shutter, which would be really useful.
The biggest jump I noticed on camera upgrade wasn't maxxum 9000->a77, but a77->a77ii. I think another piece of kit I've bought and rarely use is a flash. Doubt they'll ever get used beyond once every 2-3 years with me
Thanks for uploading. Fortunately, I haven't been too crazy in my camera purchases. My first tripod was a Sachtler tripod with Flowtech - yes, it was expensive, but luckily, I could get an exhibition model for a slightly better price. It was worth it, and I still have it. For a long time, I had a Canon 5D Mark iii for taking pictures and a Blackmagic 4k pocket with a speed booster for film. I have sold it. Instead, I now have an R5C Canon and rent if it is a larger production or hire a cinematographer. A few weeks ago, I needed to shoot a few pictures but didn't have my camera at hand, so I just had to pull out my 5D, and it was just a pleasure to shoot it, and the customer was happy. We're a little too busy chasing the new. But when I see productions, many still use older models.
For camera bags I think the best choice is a good trekking or military pack with clamshell opening + a camera insert inside. Brands like Mystery Ranch, Tasmanian Tiger etc. Better load carrying capacity, lower base weight, more flexibility and generally better price/quality ratio
Anything you'd add to this list??
Too many:
1. Cheapo ball heads.
2. Camera straps
3. Strobes
4. Legacy M42 lenses
5. Old, low capacity (below 500GB) hard drives
6. Flashlights - I get a three pack every time I am at Costco. Reason, they become useless once the batteries are corroded due to lack of use!!
@@bizpixvegas7651 all camera straps??!
Insurance is the thing I avoid. Two reasons: 1. I appreciate the discipline of assessing my environment and responding accordingly, this in the knowledge that, should I get it wrong, it's all on me. 2. I feel no need to susidize others for their lack of awareness or carelessness. Does this cost me? Yes... but it would either way and I prefer to own my actions, for better or worse.
Large aperture primes; from wide angle to telephoto; I believe that unless you specifically work with portraiture or as a BBC photographer you don't need a GM 85mm 1.4 II or a GM 600mm f4. My go to would be old prime lenses if one wants to, which is what I did, I bought a Minolta 50mm 1.7 and a Minolta 85mm 1.4, both are fantastic and have better transition at f-5,6-f10 than the lenses of today that basically delete anything else behind the focus point.
Brand name only stuff …Really Right Stuff L bracket ($120) …Amazon special for the same camera ($40) with no real difference. It is a hunk of aluminum that allows me to use my camera in two orientations on my ball head. I would apply the same logic to ball heads and tripods (Gitzo!). There is always a great middle ground option if you don’t care what the name badge says.
Second would be cheap screw on filters. The one area I choose to invest a little more money is my filters. I buy nice glass …I am not going to buy cheap filters. I prefer the Maven magnetic filters.
I think that it’s really important that other people buy new cameras and lenses, that they don’t really use enough, and then in five years I can buy them at a substantial discount.
Haha!!! An excellent point!
Good point !!!
Definitely.... it's the only way I got started in photography! 👍
Well, that's what marketing is all about isn't it. To convince you that unless you upgrade your life will practically have no meaning, and they are doing a damn good job by the looks of it.
Agree Bionic , Years ago when I started in Photojournalism all my gear was pre loved and all the lenses were as good as new. A note, lenses are expensive but outlast the cameras generally.
To the comment “Lovely photo, you must have a good camera”, my response is usually along the lines of “Lovely dinner, you must have good saucepans”.
Camera is more like ingredients, less like saucepan. 😂
I usually reply that Ernest Hemingway must have had a really good typewriter.
It's true, in a way. The photos modern cameras make possible would have required impossible technical abilities in earlier times. A sharp, perfectly focused image of a bird in flight, for instance, would have been a major tour de force for someone working with a manial focus, manual exposure camera. With a sophisticated modern camera, not such a big deal.
Lovely comment, you must have a good keyboard.
@@ingopaul1569Your analogy actually argues against your point. Electronic keyboards make writing much faster, and it could be argued that this improves writing quality by expediting the capture of ideas. Copy and paste, for instance, save so much time compared to writing with a stylus. The same is true with insert and delete.
This argument is even more compelling when applied to photography. Cameras with functions such as high fps, auto-exposure, auto-focus and eye focus make it possible for a competent photographer to consistently acquire images that would be impossible, or highly unlikely, using a camera lacking those features.
On Filters: Clear filters are advisable when photographing things that can damage your lens. Examples: 1. in a workshop where welding, sanding, and cutting take place. 2. Near a smelter where liquid metal is being poured, 3. High wind in deserts where blowing sand can scour optics. I have photographed in all three of these situations and have gotten pits or abrasions in the filters. Filters are a lot cheaper than a 2k to 3k lens. You get the idea.
That's the proper advice. Use them in extreme situations. Otherwise, use the lens hood.
2nd to this.
Over the years, it can damage the front element, heck day to day usage if you are not careful of the environment even dust n sand can get in unknowingly (nearby contruction sites particularly)
I agree, so many times clear filters saved my front element on harsh situations shoots. It’s worth replacing it than buying or repairing the lens.
@@maggnet4829 The lens hood will only work on tele lenses. On a wide angle they are nearly worthless because they are much too small. Lens hoods are also a problem if you are travelling with a very small camera pack. You either have no space for them or you need to mount and unmount them all the times.
I sometimes need to take photos during rain. I prefer not to wipe the front lens for every picture but instead a filter. Also it helps in cramped surroundings where you easily smash it into something. I have some filters with scratches here and even one which is destroyed. The lenses are OK. Only one filter threading got a light dent one time. I only take them off if I have a very controlled situation where I really need the best quality.
@reinhard8053 You are probably speaking about ultra wide angle lenses. Lens hoods find their limit there, but that's not the realm of people who would ask for advice on this matter. Filter is a tricky topic for those lenses, too. Plenty don't even have filter threads. Risk of vignetting another one, and probably you actually want to use a square filter for those.
The glass of most filters is less sturdy than that of the actual lens, but it is likely it got streched because it was in front and not protected by a lens hood.
I'm using the chunky Sigma 28-45mm f1.8 in a rather small camera bag. I keep the lens hood mounted when it's in the bag. The only lens where I actually unmounted the lens hood during transport was the Sony 200-600 (which is ridiculously big). Since I sometimes place the camera and lens on the floor, I'd still 100% screw the hood back on once taken out of the bag.
I'm fairly often bumping into things, admittedly, and all my lens hoods show scratches on the end. My lens glass, however, is prestine. Proper care while cleaning is key here.
I have been a professional photographer all my life, doing a lot of motorsport. When touting for business people would often say 'it's alright,my wife has a camera'. My reply was frequently 'I have a pair of scissors, it doesn't make me a dressmaker'.
There is a difference - as a photographer you face the "million monkey problem", because now everyone is equipped with a camera via smartphone, but not with scissors. And those millions of people take many millions of photos every day - and 10 of them (that will be widely published) will be better than what you would consider a "once in a career shot" - every day. So people see amazing photos taken by amateurs every day - how could they not think that it's easy, or that anyone can do it, or that professional photographers also take extraordinary shots only by chance (which, to be honest, is half the truth for any great shot).
The UV filter on my lens, which broke, recently saved the lens from damage when it took a knock. I’ll be continuing to use such filters for that purpose!
Me too. On my 50mm. I tripped and the filter smashed, but the lens is fine. You just never know what is around the corner.
I have one on my TTartisan 27mil. It's my edc so i don't want to put on a lens cap. Much quicker when there's something i want to take, so I don't have the hassle taking off the lens cap.
How can you be sure the filter saved the lens? Filters are far more fragile than the lenses and there is a good chance the lens would have survived without the filter.
@@TheBigBlueMarblepossible, but the front element would definitely have been badly marked
@@TheBigBlueMarble A lens hood does a better job.
Finally a vid that reduces consuming.
Yes I’d add square space! It s expensive and not at all easy to use! Really sick of their sponsorship of every UA-camr.
Careful with these tips, you might make some enemies.
Rick: Anything with photography written on it incurs a crazy markup... Just like 'wedding'
Wedding Photographers: He's onto us, get him!
Haha!! Having been a wedding photographer in the past, I mean except wedding photographers, obviously 😂
hey they gotta eat too
I was on Brighton beach last week and took a fall...thankfully i had the lens hood on my R5 & 24-105...it 100% did the job...my lens lived to snap another tale....now my knees?? They are still bruised....
I should have mentioned lens hoods - all the protection you need (and they're free with the lens!!). Hopefully you weren't too badly hurt.
My lens hoods are always attached, reversed in my bag, properly when I shoot. They not only protect lens (and threads!) but also unwanted extraneous light and glare - whether from sunlight or spot-lights. I can't endorse tossing a lens into a camera bag without the lens cap, either. Every bit of care matters and if you get a bit of grit in your bag, it can damage your front element, especially if you don't have a UV or NC filter on the front.
someone on a recent social photo walk criticised my usually reversed lens hood. He said if you never use it why bother? Well, it takes up minimal space and when I do need it to rminimise lens flare, it's there
@@emerana re hoods and lens flare... they also tend to up the contrast too, even when there's no flare.
Same story here, lenshood saved my 14-30/4 and I took the big hit against the rock with my forehead instead (slippy leaves) - concussion an blue eye for four weeks, but lensok 😂
I used to carry my photo equipment in a backpack when travelling. I got tired of sore backs and bought a well-known brand wheel case with a retractable handle. It fits in overhead storage on aircraft, and it has saved my back, and it reduces travel fatigue.
Good luck with that going over rough terrain .
@@samskeeter1 I carry a camera on a long, wide neck strap, with the camera on my side and with one lens on long hikes. The roller case is for traveling and goes from home to airport to hotel. If I am on a vehicle-photo shoot, it stays in the back of the auto. I don't have a need to use it over rough terrain. My old backpack really got heavy and started hurting my back when I traveled.
@@samskeeter1there are backpacks that have wheels it saves your back when you’re on smooth surfaces.
I think we all do different things with our photography, and so we all need different tools. I saw a video of a ex National Geographic photographer that these days uses a wheel case like yours for travelling. He then just leaves it in the hotel and takes what he needs on the day in a small side bag he sticks in his suitcase. This seemed to be a nice idea and seems to work for him.
Me, I like a backpack. And I find that if I don't take my stuff with me, it doesn't get used. And if it doesn't get used, what is the point in having it?
Yes, my backpack is really quite heavy at about 9kg. But a lesson I learned from a previous hiking expedition I did when I was young is that when you carry a heavy bag for a while, after a few days you get used to it and you will stop paying attention to it. Your body quickly builds the muscles and adapts to the extra weight. At the end of our hiking trip I really stopped noticing I had the very heavy pack we were all carrying. It just became part of me. I guess my body thought I had gained weight and just adjusted accordingly.
These days, I work from home. As I don't get the exercise of going into the office any more, instead I do a daily hour long walk with my girlfriend to the local park. A few times a week I will take my camera backpack with me, not because I intend necessarily to take pictures, but because I want keep my body used to carrying the weight. Yes, I do notice it is a bit heavy when I first put it on, but 10 minutes later and it no longer bothers me. I have become used to the weight. Now when I go on photo walks, I am quite happy to carry the backpack, and I have all the gear I need at my disposal. However, if I go into town, I will generally carry a much smaller shoulder bag, as the environment there means I don't want to carry a big, bulky backpack that might knock into people.
Great video. I think an exception to - it’s not the equipment, it’s the photographer - is wildlife. You need lots of megapixels for cropping in on distant subjects. You need great autofocus. You need focal length. And you get much better results with 20-30 FPS on moving subjects. Then, the artistry comes in in Lightroom!
You also need a lot of patience, which I think is why I leave wildlife to other!!
You need different gear for different photography styles. For wildlife you can have all those things and still get bad images, so yes, to get impactful nature photographs it's always the photographer; how you understand the light and the wildlife's behavior to get impactful images. Remember the objective is not to capture images of something but about something.
Ergonomics and workflow is another big area where the saying breaks down. I've gotten great photos off my T1i....but I'm SO excited about getting a modern mirrorless for Christmas because the screen will be articulated for the weird angles I love to shoot from, I'll be able to better judge if I got the shot from the screeen, it'll be lighter, and I won't have to go through a multi-step process including SD card adapters to transfer things from my camera to my iPad for editing. That I'll have more MPs to play around with when cropping, significantly better AF, and that I won't be struggling as much with dynamic range, are kind of just the cherries on top compared to the rest.
I like aircraft and Motorsport photography (but also have interests in landscape and street) and used to use an old bridge camera that I did get some decent results in but I had to get the subject perfectly in frame because there was just not enough pixels to crop in and the memory buffer only allowed bursts of about 6 shots. This Christmas I switched to a mirrorless setup with a 100-400mm lens as well as a 12mm lens some filters, tripod and a couple other things that my dad was going to sell but gave to me instead. Faster focus, bigger memory buffer and those things will help with Motorsport and aircraft but it's not going to make me a good photographer but I won't have my hands partially tied and I'm enjoying experimenting with the lenses and stuff I have getting some effects that I couldn't do before and I'm having a lot of fun doing so and that's what really matters
I'm going to differ with you a bit, regarding camera body upgrades. Recently upgraded my Sony A7iii to an A7RV, and I've been delighted with the improvement in my images. The A7RV's autofocus is light years ahead of the A7iii. The image stabilization is better. And the 61MP sensor simply captures more detail.
A one-generation upgrade may not be worth the money, but if you can jump two generations, you will definitely see improvements in image quality and ease of use.
Tripod comments are right. I was in another state and was asked to video an event but hadn’t bought my tripod. I went to the local hardware store and found a Bosch tripod (for a level or theodolite) for around $49. Perfect. As you say if it had a photography tag it would have been at least double or more.
At least!!
I would recommend checking out the refurbished gear on the manufacturer’s website when you do need to purchase a lens or camera body and wait for a sale on that site as well. Often you get the same warranty as a new one and the manufacturer did the refurbishment. All of my cameras I have owned, I have bought either used or refurbished. I have never had an issue and I have saved a lot of money.
I agree about your point on bags that can be a money pit. I currently use a Thinktank travel style bag and it works great. I’ll keep it until it falls apart.
Thanks for the good video!
That's true. All of my Fuji lenses are from their refurb site. Thanks!
Great stuff, Rick. I would have to agreed with most. I only add a comment on to camera bags, as I often tell people unless you have a “standard torso,” what ever measurement that is, many backpack won’t fit a longer or shorter torso. I know that is one thing that has disappointed many buyer and pushes people towards the higher end bags with adjustable straps. As you said, once an item has “photography” put on it, it certainly increase the price and the perceived need.
Thanks Andy! That's an interesting thing to look out for, thanks for the tip 👍🏻
I have "cheap" camera backpack - not waterproof and not a premium brand. However, what I love about it is that I was able to adjust where the straps are attached on the bag. When I did a lot of backpacking, that feature was absolutely critical on any ruck sack you bought, to keep the weight properly distributed.
Camera bags, Grrr! I use 3, depending on circumstance. I have the big backpack that takes everything, but don't want to carry it further than out to the car! A little 10 Litre sling bag (lovely!) that takes a camera & 2 lenses, and a tatty (vintage look, unbranded) backpack with a cube in. The big bag stays in the car with all the bits (well hidden) and I just take the stuff I'm planning on using! (APS-C camera & lenses, so not too mighty) Another fun video, thanks!
Thanks!! I’m running 3 as well (or is it 4?!) and I still feel like there’s something missing… like something isn’t quite right. Need another, clearly 🙄😂
On lens, I find what stops me from buying the latest and greatest is looking at the shots I do take with my current gear, the shots I want to but can't take reliably, and the shots I almost never take.
Great way to look at it 👍🏻
Excellent commentary! Best common sense I’ve viewed on the subject of gathering “stuff” versus learning the craft!
The only one of those you won't convince me about is a UV filter, apart from really cheap ones. I used to work in a camera shop, so I've seen what repair to a front element can cost. Yes, a lot of the time a lens hood will save the lens, but you only need this to go wrong once. I'd rather keep that money to spend on petrol/ train tickets to get to a location. Each to their own though.
One of my friends is a fairly accomplished landscape photographer with a decent following. I asked him what his favourite piece of photography gear was and he said it was a camper van. i.e. it's the thing that gets him to the landscape to take the shot vs any camera or lens.
I bought the 70-200 F4 G years ago for my travel photography. I also got the 24-70 GM and the 16-35 GM. On other people's advice. I did get some great shots on the Euro-tour I got the gear for. No complaints. But over the last few years I learned to shoot differently and have recently purchased the Tamron 28-200 and that pretty much lives on the a7R3 full-time now. I'm getting close to just trading in the others, since I haven't used them since pre-COVID.
I never use camera bag mine is simply a cheap backpack you become less of a target as well when ya bag looks like shit
That's true!!
Being less of a target has become very important; I often do this myself. 👍
I use the Lowepro Pro Tactic 450 II, fits my needs perfectly. Good protection when snowmobile riding, skiing, flying, hiking or in the city. Holds my gear two bodies (1 dx mark iii and a 7d mark ii) and three lenses (14mm, 24-70mm and 60-600mm) with room for other stuff as well.
Good video. I've been an urban photographer for many years and have used a backpack exactly one time, when I was first starting out. It's completely unnecessary. You just need one camera and at most two lenses. A simple shoulder bag will do the trick and it doesn't even need to be a photo bag - I've used an inexpensive messenger bag for years.
Imagine how much a wedding photographer’s bag would cost.
I use a lens hood and only a polariser if required. I agree on the ND grads, they were essential on film photography not so on digital. The best money I spent on photography was on a 2 x day course on wedding photography over in Weymouth. Nick Stubbs was his name, I learnt so much and I nailed the wedding I was tasked to do. The worst money I spent was on a street photography course in London. The instructor turned up with a raging hang over, arrogant, and only interested in the 'young' females on the course and I learnt nothing new. Thanks for video!
LOVE your video! I was prepared to be defensive…but you’re spot on! 100% agree on borrowing or renting lenses. IF you find yourself renting many times, buy the lens, otherwise, save the money. 😊
Regarding bags, I can recommend the LowePro Flipside 200. Probably the happiest I've ever been with a bag. Space is limited, tho. Also, the 70-200 2.8 is probably my most valuable lens when shooting candids at events. Then again, the 70-180 2.8 which is half the price would do very much the same thing.
agree, the 70-200 is an awesome portrait lense.
Rick, you perfectly illustrate how bags are entirely subjective. I have both sizes of the PD Everyday Back Pack and have no issue with comfort of either of them and love the way they can be used without even taking them off. With you on lens caps - lost mine years ago, they are not missed. Tripods and photography - Nigel will tell you how essential they are. Stabilisation isn't an issue, but framing is. Lock the framing with a tripod and wait for conditions. So many more reasons too.
Be well.
That's interesting, I despise mine 😂 That's true about tripods - I guess that element is, again, subjective. It all comes down to how you shoot. Not sure I have that level of patience!!
I also love my PD Everyday backpacks, I have both large and small. They are my perfect backpacks
I've had the Nomatic McKinnon backpack for several years and I've found it to be a useful investment, even though it was chagrin-level expensive. I definitely haven't had any comfort issues with it. On the contrary, the straps design has ensured a supportive fit that I can wear all day.
Note that I'm not advertising or encouraging anyone to buy it. Starting at $300, it's still really expensive.
Backpacks are designed to fit a specific body shape. So if it’s comfortable on you, it’s because it was designed to fit your body shape, in particular your width and slope of shoulders. You’ll see good hiking backpacks come in a variety of fits, including women specific fits. So the reason it was uncomfortable on the reviewer is…it wasn’t designed for his body shape. The designers of these photography equipment backpacks have definitely misunderstood what’s important in a backpack - comfort. Fit is principally achieved through the shape and placement of the shoulder straps, but also the shape of the back pad, and features like adjustable chest straps.
People come in a variety of shapes and sizes, you can’t have one size fits all.
On the bag front, I found an old padded projector bag, and created my own dividers with a thick $9 yoga matt and some superglue. Fiddly to make, and relatively inflexible, but its so much cheaper to diy. Could easily make one of those cube things this way as well.
Nice!
Pointing back to your "The Camera Companies don't want you to know this" video reminded me just how great that video was. Truly cured a LOT of my GAS issues. Great post, Rick.
Thanks Chris. There are times when I need to watch that video back myself!
Honestly, right now it's probably a good time for people getting into photography for the reason you mentioned here 09:06
A professional camera back then now costs like an entry level camera with all the quality that it brings.
Sure, you might want to start with an easier system first to get familiar with the basics but an upgrade path to a good DSLR is now better than it has probably ever been.
With the establishment of mirrorless systems, lenses for mirror cameras will hopefully also become more and more affordable. And as was said, renting is always and mostly a better option. Although I can see the appeal of not wanting to spend 50-100+ bucks on a lens you use for a few days and maybe don't even make money from, when you can try to get an additional 200-300 bucks and buy one used.
One set of gear you need, shoes/boots, pants, a shirt, jacket depending on weather, and just forget the gadgets, and shoot, and compose, and shoot some more. One camera, one lens, and just keep repeating that with another lens. Think we get too caught up in gear, or latest gear, and not enough “ caught up in having fun shooting”.
Why we became photographers, 🤔 thinking sometimes we forget the why, and dwell too much on the maybe. I remember why I got into it back during high school. Kept looking around and “seeing images” in my mind, which drove me crazy, till I went out and bought my first set of film camera gear. Then started meeting like minded individuals, and even started the photography club in my high school, developing my own film and B&W photos. Then my love for it grew from there, and I no longer felt crazy.
Though as many, being a younging, was slightly caught up in gear after the first little while. Still have my heavy pro tripod (bloody thing, is heavy and massive, extending to almost 6’, and luging that around was nuts), and my F2 , and accessories from back then. Probably can blame that on my neighbour, as he had all the fancy Nikon gear ( he could afford it) and was both a good and bad influence for that. Oh well, live and learn from experiences.
Cheers
One thing most of the time is overlooked. Staying cool or warm with dry feet lets me focus on composing and staying out in the field longer.
I began photography in 2023 and I am thankful to have watched a multitude of video like yours about being photographer and not "gear guy". I literally own APS-C camera and 3 lenses that cover the range and use cases I need. it's so tempting looking at those fancy expensive full frame cameras and lenses, but those won't change you as photographer. my whole bag complete with camera, accessories and lenses costs less than a current generation brand new entry level full frame camera and I am ok with it. if I would had to buy an entry level full frame camera with 3 high quality lenses I would have spent 3 times more, about $5000 more to be precise and with all those money you can travel A LOT in Europe, the continent I am in, using trains and short flights. with a 1 to 2 hours flight you can go everywhere and visit vastly different places and cultures.
I think using a lens cap is just prudent, you lose very little from putting on a lens cap before putting a camera or objective into a bag.
Tripods are most definitely needed for some types of photography, so this is more a question of "Do I need a tripod for the sort of photography I want to be working with".
I find a small camera bag to be invalulable both for organisation and easy access, as well as to keep things safe while going somewhere, but if I was goin to go hiking and had a lot of other stuff with me, I might indeed do something with the actual general bag I would be using for that trip instead, but as I said, for when I just go out to take some photos, like while walking to the grocery store, absolutely needed. I only skimmed through this part though so it might very well be that you are speaking about a specific situation though and not photography in general. The second hand market part is absolutely spot on though, I bought two almost unused camera bags for my Nikon D40x and Nikon d5100 for very cheap and they are brilliant. Took me a bit of puzzling to figure out the best way to organize things but works beautifully now.
I have a macro lens because I got a camera to photograph coins initially, haha, but to be honest I use it more as a general lens that has the added bonus of a fantastically low near-focus limit (which is absolutely fantastic as I do a lot of everyday urban or home/community-space sort of photography at the moment where not having such a short near limit would be rather annoying if nothing else). Also have a zoom lens and eventually I want to get a sort of nifty fifty very bright sort of lens as well, after that it gets far too niche and expensive for me.
As for the camera upgrade thing, I cant really speak, my newest camera is a d5100, so I am not exactly in the market for the newest stuff available, hah.
Regarding bags, I bought a small day pack at Decathlon when I was in Paris last. It is roomy, comfortable, cost about 35 Euros, and, best part, has a separate compartment at the bottom designed to cool your lunch. But the padding is more than sufficient to protect a camera or lens. It also has a little nylon sheet that is meant as a seat, but in fact works as a clean surface for changing lenses, sorting gear, etc. Combined with a Peak Design Capture clip on the shoulder strap, it is the ideal everyday camera bag.
If you’re interested in evening photography or photos with long shutter speech you definitely need a tripod and I agree with you that don’t go cheap is the right way to go. I’ll find myself 100% in your camera bag story
But camera bags and UV filters are both sub-$100 items that can save you the expense of replacing a $1k lens or $2k camera body. Tripods are necessary for slow shutter speed photography, timelapses, using long lenses, etc.
I appreciate the idea of not over-buying but I think most of these items you listed are actually incredibly useful things to have
I think the point is that if you have a real good reason to use any of those items (and often) then they become must haves. If you use it maybe once, meh, perhaps not.
I upgraded from an entry level D3400 to a D500 and am blown away by what I can now achieve just because of the insane autofocus. I can finally get shots of birds flying and squirrels scurrying.
Though if I had no desire to shoot fast moving small animals that little D3400 probably would have served all my needs for the foreseeable future.
Completely agree on tripods. For the life of me, I don't understand why the Peak Design tripod is so popular. Yes, it's compact and light. But it's pencil thin legs are very flimsy. You can sneeze on them and they'll flex.
As far as unnecessary (or perhaps just wrong) gear, I would say that one of the things that I think is the right idea, but is not made very well, is padded lens pouches. Although they were cheap, they were a complete waste of money. They were made based on older, more slender lens designs from the film era, and no one has bothered to update the physical specs. If they would update the sizes to match today's lenses, they would be great for using with a regular backpack.
As for gear that has become indispensable for me, I've invested a bit of money into a system of quick change plates and receivers for tripod heads. Mine is by Leofoto, and I use the 60mm size - QS-60. If you have need of different tripod heads, this enables you to quickly and painlessly change them out, and they lock down tightly and securely. It's purely a convenience value-add, but very much worth it.
As a middle-aged newbie, still at the early stage of my journey and with a couple of pointless purchases under my belt, this is a great video and I’ve already reconsidered my ‘photography’ basket. Thank you.
I found myself nodding vigorously when you got to the part about photography bags! It's like anything that is supposed to be built for purpose. All of a sudden you will find that the manufacturers of these things will start sticking 0's onto the price! I'm disabled and anything related to disability is just as bad! The electric wheelchair I use is a prime example. If I wasn't leasing it from motability I would have to pay £8,000 for it!
By the way, you have a new subscriber! 😊😊
Thanks, appreciated. That's even worse if there's a premium for anything related to a disability - I'm pretty shocked at that if I'm honest (but not all that surprised).
Your opening statement is all foreside-back; the trick is to become as good as you can with the kit you have, analyse honestly whether it's the kit or yourself that's reached a limit; then upgrade when you know 'zackly what you want to acheive.
Great tube -
Bags ! Hmm I have a few !
Conclusion the back bag is heavy to lug about & you do tend to fill every crevice - so I Store my gear in it @ home maybe if away pick goodies to take on the day .
Favourite Bags are non photo bags
For Street tourism etc small shoulder bag gorgeous 1 light SLR with 50mm & 24mm pancake & Canon G7 small pocket camera ( which generally lives in me pocket spare battery & card -
For landscapes & general heavier higher Spec SLR 18 -135 zoom & maybe 70 -300 + KF magnetic filters ( in thier Pouch in a wide banded shoulder bag & wrist strap
( G7 still in pocket) tripod I carry on my belt.
The above covers me for most things bothered fairly lite to carry & have room for a snack !
In separate compartment - so no crumbs etc on camera gear 😂
I agree with everything except the tripod bit. Get a Sachtler tripod for video, and you will never want to go back. They start at $3000 USD and will last your lifetime and beyond. Don't get it to shoot landscapes, but it will change your life when shooting video.
I will also push back on having a card reader, 1: almost always faster than your camera and 2: less wear and tear on your camera. Same for having a battery charger vs charging the battery in the camera. Nice to have but don't make it a habit.
Good accessory would be a geared tripod head in place of a ball head. Yes, a bit bigger, but so much more precise, especially for macro work (but I prefer for whenever I am using a tripod). Another is a sling bag for light trips when you just need a camera and maybe a second lens and a spare battery.
I can see why some photographers would find that useful - I’ve actually never used one (one of the few things I’ve not convinced myself to buy!!). Love a sling bag, however it can be another potential minefield with added ‘photography’ tax!
@RickBebbington if you decide to try a geared tripod head, I strongly recommend the one from Benro. Great price, well built, and precise.
I have stopped using tripod heads. Only using old and slim tripods with no head. Prefer that for many reasons.
Great video, thanks. Ive been a pro for 30 years and have a few items that I keep purely because I paid a lot for. Top of the list. The Nikon 85mm shift tilt😬 2nd place Nikon 200-400 F4 great for body building .
9:32 I agree for the most part, but not entirely. Let me explain: The camera could play a big role in Dynamic range and background blur. Compare a full-frame to a micro 4/3rds. Yes a micro 4/3rds sensor can be great, but full-frame looks better for most shots.
It depends on the setting, but for what I do, I'm not sure there's much in it. Especially given the sizes that I publish and print at. Of all my recent images, I'm not sure many people could say which I shot on a Full frame and which I shot on a crop. Never used MFT though so maybe that's more of a difference
There isn’t. I print A3 size from my five-year-old micro four thirds camera. If it’s a good photo no one cares what sensor size it is. And yes I have a camera with a larger sensor but I like the Panasonic better. I can use a Sony A7 IV from work any time I want but I like the Panny better and so I take better pictures with it.
I'm glad to hear what you said about there not being any good camera bags. I thought it was just me. A lot of content creators push a lot of bags, and I've been disappointed every time.
the best camera bag is a milwaukee packout full setup with foam blocks cut to fit what you need
Good advise, The gear is so good now, No longer need a bag full of primes because the zooms are so good, I call my genre Street + so primarily street but versatile. Less but quality ie Z6II 24-120 f4 S and 35 f1.8s, One of these lenses and a spare battery and I am away.
I see a long life for this kit too. As you mention insurance is important. Cheers from Australia
Hi Rick. I could disagree about pluggin the camera to the computer. It's an experience I had on my last Canon 80D : transfer was slow when using plugged in camera. So I bought a cheap card reader. And it was way faster. Maybe more recent camera have better transmission rate ?
Vincent, I am with you with “older” cameras. Older USB was definitely slower than popping out the SD card but “modern” cameras with the USB-C goes just as fast if not faster. My Nikon Z6ii is just as fast as my card reader with either the Cafe press or SD card.
That's fair enough, a cheap card reader is much more sensible than a kevlar one!!
@@AndyCuthbert you are right. There are still old gear out there and for their owners it's a relevant stuff.
My Canon 5D Mk II (a tank of a camera) uses CF cards with 50 pin connectors between the camera and the card. I'm fearful of bending one of those pins deep in the camera each time I remove the CF card, so I generally just leave it in the camera and download the photos directly from the camera to the computer.
Agree completely with your assessments. In fact, I am quite surprised to find someone who thinks as closely as I do. Especially about not needing protective stuff any more. I also just put my camera and lens into my bag and don't bother with lens cap or protective bags.
Thanks for the great common-sense video!
Oh, man, this all hits home! Very good points throughout.
Really like your reaction to ND grad filters, never bothered and glad to hear someone else has as much contempt for them, also totally agree on the constant upgrade that we are all advertised towards, I have been a photography teacher for TAFE and really advise students to learn their elements and principles of design for composition, its much cheaper!
I totally agree with this guy. My Cameras are bought 2nd hand. My panasonic fz1000 bridge camera is by far my best camera. No expensive lenses to buy. Light weight and fits into a small bag. Ive just got back from New Zealand and the results were stunning. My other camera a nikon d7200 takes slightly better photos but at a cost. Ive just bought a 400mm lens. £350 Plus ive another 2 lenses, plus a couple of lens pouches and camera bags. Then theirs the weight. To be honest I wish i hadnt bought it. Because my Bridge camera does everything my d7200 does but at a 3rd of the cost.
The two worst things I've bought weren't all that expensive, but I only used them once. I thought doing sports and being outdoors I would need a rain sleeve and also a monopod, but I was wrong. I bought the right sized rain sleeve but it was too big and didn't stay secure, so I now use those cheap, blue, plastic carrier bags and black tape. The monopd was just a total pain to use, so I've stuck to handheld.
I've got a handy hack for camera bags and lens pouches.
I used a fishing bag that has molle straps on the outside that allows me to swap out pouches etc as and when I need them. I've got a couple of cheap padded cubes like the one you showed for the main compartment and with them and the swap ability of the molle system I can quickly have all the kit I need for a specific shoot in a relatively small and comfortable bag. Plus the bag has lots of small compartments perfect for memory cards, cables and spare batteries etc
It's like having an infinite number of bags.
An excellent alternative to a camera bag when traveling by air is a camera roll-aboard. I own a Neewer 2-in1 convertible wheeled luggage case that can contains 2 super telephoto prime (or zoom) lenses, 2 camera bodies and other odds and ends. It also fits in standard overhead bins. It's a great piece of kit that costs less than USD 200.
Great video, completely agree with the principle of less is more and keep it simple! On bags in particular, dedicated camera bags look geeky, tend to be uncomfortable and advertise the fact that you’re carrying expensive gear around. Any bag you fancy, whether a shoulder bag or backpack (I prefer a shoulder bag for easy access) with a padded liner ( cheap as chips from Amazon) dropped in does the job just as well at a fraction of the price.
Re: taking a tripod as carry-on. That’s fine as long as the airline has a generous carry-on allowance. A lot of the Middle Eastern and SE Asia airlines have a strict 7kg limit for carry-ons (coupled with a generous allowance for hold luggage). I’ve seen Emirates passengers having their carry-on bags weighed at Manchester, for example.
My all time favorite Camera is the original Canon 5D. Even though it's old. The pictures are spectacular.
Very useful information. More content creators should address these points. Glad I found your page.
You are right about images depending more on the photographer than the equipment. One of the best I've taken was with a fixed lens Minolta over 50 years ago. Now I depend on my 105mm, 14-24mm, 50mm, and 180-600mm because I can get images that cannot be captured any other way. No backpacks, just take what I need for each endeavor whether it is insects, people, birds, landscapes or architecture. My day use carry bag is over forty years old. I fix shoulder straps to my tripods. My mirrorless camera was a game changer for me.
Diaper Bags with some nice clean diapers inside is the perfect photo bag for carrying in your car straight to the site. Think of it, as sort of a "hidden in plain site" while equipment is unwatched in your vehicle. The clean diapers make a great way to clean up equipment if something goes wront.
I recommend a good quality sling if you use a heavy zoom lens on your camera. My $85.- strap is perfect for my Tamron G2 150-600 model. And it prevents back aches.
The thing I'd suggest is a waste is megapixels - at least above a certain level. I have 40 or whatever, and honestly have discouraged friends who were thinking of upgrades for the sake of more than 20-odd. Their resolution works perfectly fine for me.
Oh god yes!! Not sure how I missed this but sort of alluded to it in the last point. To me, the mega pixel raise is insane.
I own a lot of camera bags and actually use them all - depends on the shoot. Sometimes I just want to carry one or two lens, cards and battery so hence a small bag. I agree on exotic lens except for me my 100mm macro is my favorite portrait lens. For my long telephoto lens urges I bought a used Sigma 150-600 for $500 and it works just fine. Thank you for hammering in the point about gear obsession! I still shoot with a 12 year old Canon 5D3 and it's still great - have my clients ever complained? Never
Large dedicated camera bags are not necessary. You’re really just carrying your fomo. Understand where you’re going and what you need for that day. That’s it!
My first bag was a Manfroto Pro Light. It was sufficient internally for storage but the outside was bothersome. The shoulder straps were not curved and very much the same on either side so they would flip when putting the bag on. The sternum strap rode too high was in my neck most of the time. The one other problem that annoyed me the most was the hip belt. I backpacked a lot and was use to a nice wide hip belt that rode properly. The Manfroto was so narrow that it just would not sit on my hip. I tried the pack on in the store but without any weight in it. My current bag is the Mindshift Pro Light 40 L. I have had this for 4 years now and all of the previous bag problems are gone. Some essential gear that I believe is a must is cleaning cloths ( mcrifiber), lens wipes, sensor cleaning swabs and appropriate fluid and a blower.
I had a Manfroto bag about 6-7 years ago and I honestly think it's the worst bag I've owned!! So uncomfortable and it pinched my lower back - far from ideal. Yes to the cleaning stuff, but just search 'microfibre cloths' rather the 'camera cleaning cloths' and you'll save some money (aforementioned 'photography tax'!!)
@@RickBebbington auto supply part stores sell microfiber in packs. When it comes down to it their probably a $1 or less each.
I just retired so I thought I would give photography a try. I just bought the Sony A7RV, Sony FE 14mm F/1.8 GM, Sony 35mm GM f/1.4, Sony 85mm GM 2 f/1.4 and the Sony FE 200-600mm G f/5.6-6.3 Whenever I start a new hobby I hate upgrading later
I am a firm believer in buying something expensive, but with good quality, but one. Like one good tripod, more expensive, but sturdy, same with bags. Use them with care as much as possible and when they are done , then buy next piece of gear.
Doesn't work in a lot of cases. Quite often, the most expensive equipment won't last any longer or work any better than kit that is of a more moderate price.
@@ArmyDr I go with the cheapest thing possible the first time. If it breaks, replace with something higher quality. If it doesn't break, I either didn't use it, or it was good enough.
Sadly, expensive is not the same as quality.
1 tripod is not enought. One general use, sturdy tripod for general use, one small that can get really close to the ground for macro (still sturdy enought to fit macro rail on it).
@@anupew3276 For me, it's one heavy and high quality one for the studio when photographing paintings, and a cheap monopod for outdoors. I do have a couple of others I picked up/was given over the years which I use for studio lights.
Tripod is a good point. I had bad GAS about buying a tripod and looked at some in the 200-300 range. One day after i came back from a hike i looked at my photos and i realised that a tripod would not have seen any use for these photos. For camera bag i bought a used Pgytech Onemo 25l (the first version) and it works well and is comfortable.
Some types of photos are impossible to shoot without a tripod though.
I kinda hate carrying it but there is no other option.
True. All comes down to what you are shooting.
I got rid of my 70-200 2.8, was too heavy, ever made it into the bag. Also, I recommend the 22L Thinktank Mindshift Rotation 180 bags, they are a game changer, even more so if combined with a capture clip on a shoulder strap.
Well made reflection of all those things which might go into the way! Just my adds:
→ Protection/Filters = UV filters (high quality) to be cleaned on the fly
→Tripods: One is not enough. Lightweight (2kg) Video-Photo tripod (hiking) and older heavier larger stuff
→Bags: Some Lowepro ProRunner 200 + 300. Since ~12 years, ordered two additional backpacks 2nd hand to have "spare". Light, two external meshes for water bottles, umbrella or small tripod.
→Lenses: 24 - 105, 105 - 400 + two bodies (FF + APS-C (=640mm)) to have a compact universal setup - zooms got so great that I accept them now!
→Camera Upgrades: Ergnomics beats feature lists and may be more expensive but it's worth it.
Finally I think it is good to have a package which you know very well and which is reliable.
But it is also good to have some additional lenses for "special effects" / situations where you need it.
Absolutely refreshing! It's always "This ONE piece of gear will make your photography so much better" or "I can't believe I didn't buy THIS piece of gear earlier!". Finally a video on "Don't buy this..." Thanks for the great content!
I have one good tripod that I never use anymore. I could honestly sell it tomorrow and never miss it. I do like using a monopod with my 200-800 gigantic lens though. As for my bag(s), I bought Amazon Basic bags that work very well for me. Two small ones and one large one that fits my super zoom. I'm also finding the 3-lens rule working well even as I own more than that, I'll never take more than three lenses anywhere. I'm not a pro. I make nothing from my photography. I only do it as I enjoy the learning and getting results that satisfy me and go flip-off to how anybody else sees my photos. There've been many times where I've gotten shots with my phone I've been very happy with that would have taken me too long to get set up for. That's okay too!
A monoped is an often overlooked tool. It beats a tripod in most cases unless you are doing table top or closeup photography.
Getting this video recommended to me after watching a couple try to make the case that people MUST buy some 28-300mm zoom lens is a nice contrast.
Totally agree, just buying expensive stuff that I wouldnt use is idiotic.
I've been cheap and lazy for the most part. I used a camera pouch that I got for $1 ten years ago. I finally got a proper bag two years ago. The Wotancraft 10L Pilot. I love it and that's the only bag I have.
I've been using a $30 Velbon tripod for the last 12 years but that's starting to break down. I'm afraid it might fail so it's time to finally get a proper tripod and head that won't break the bank!
One thing i want to tell new photographers is to look into RENTING gear for shoots. Often, you make your money back through the shoot you're using it for
Three pieces of gear I regret buying: a camera, lens, and tripod.
😂😂
Hi Rick. With the bags for my everyday camera. I moved away from a normal backpack and move to a sling bag and it helps to keep your camera out to reduce the weight on your shoulder still enough room for little bits you'll need
I'm with you on the Neil - I have a sling bag too but for its size and functionality, it was so overpriced!! I do like it though...
Yeah there are, I agree with you on the price. But like you said it's the whole camera thing
Backpacks are the most silly & stupid thing to carry (if & when u r shooting) in a city
over 8M; even in the field/hills u have to drop them on wet/snowy grounds to get at
or change anything. The only time they are good is when u r walking. I've been looking for bags for a while. U don't want to pay in blood for sth. like a Billingham which is
not that practical anyway (& still use cotton straps?). One of the bags I still have was bought some decades ago when back to the little old college town called Boston; I paid $13 or 16 for this dirty & blk sooty (prob. fire/water damaged) but looked otherwise ok. After washed & dried , it's a fine tough low (9"?) & longish bag. Still looking for some old Domke type & whatever its name in various sizes, & at least one easy for packing away an a7n w/ vertical/power grip & a lens attached. A good camera bag is hard to find & should NOT cost more than a pair of real leather shoes.
On the last few 15-hr intern'l flights, in a laptop backpack I had o.c. a 15.6" , a couple of bigger lenses, batteries, chargers , cards & cords, a small body, papers & a small book. At least I don't carry rolls of heavy films any more , & one time I also carry a 100' bulk loader & some reusable cartridges. Never a camera bpk ! In the 90's I managed to carry a Bogen ( l-t agent for Manfrotto) monopod onboard. Haven't tried & shouldn't after 9xx. A nail-clipper is also wea__p_on.
sling bags are often problematic for the female shape - I despise them. Backpacks only for me
Great video; I agree on all counts, especially tripods, camera bags, and lenses!! 24mm to 70mm is my go-to also, and I rarely go wider or longer. And don't get me started on camera bags and camera upgrades 🙂
I’ve started - rant away 😂
Great video. Nice to see you showed a photo from the A7II. I'm still happy with mine and trying to resist the urge to upgrade. Your video helped me to stay resolute.
Bit late to this, on bags, I tend to find that for when I'm "in the field," so to speak, I have opted for a Sling-type bag.
I've a 6L sling bag, and the limitations of not being able to bring every single lens along helps focuses the mind.
And, the capacity of that bag is enough to bring a portable charger, and some small bits and pieces. And, I can strap a hat AND attach a water bottle to it. A 10L sling would probably be as close to perfect as i would want though.
Bag recommendation: Peak Design Messenger 13L. I've had this bag for 2 months, and it works very well as a briefcase, carry-on, qualifies as a personal item, and is a natural for day trips. It will take a 13" laptop, with room for a smallish body and 2 to 5 lenses. Like everyone, I've got too many bags, but this one is a delight.
Sorry, but UV filters prevent damage to the front glass of your lens. Lens caps are a bother and I only use them for storage when I remove the lens from the camera to protect the back glass on the lens. But, I suppose if you can go out and just buy another lens when you mess up the one you are using it is no big deal but some of us can't afford a replacement whenever we damage one. For a useful camera bag you might try the Lowepro Adventura TLZ20 III Top Loading Shoulder Bag (Black) which protects the camera and has a zipper on top that allows very quick access from the top of the bag. My older Lowpro bag also had loops on each side allowing me to carry an additional lens in an attached padded lens bag and my flash on the other side.
Even with USB-C being more robust than micro I would not want to put the additional strain on the camera port as opposed to just taking the SD card out and putting it in a relatively cheap card reader.
Cheap card reader is fair enough. I draw the line at anything over £15 though!!
Concerning photo bags, get one or more Tenba BYOB inserts (to cover the different setups that you use) and then use whatever standard (non-photographic) bag or rucksack that is suitable for your outing or trip.
I haven't regretting moving from a full-frame DSLR system to micro four thirds. The bodies and lenses are smaller and lighter, and with advancing age they are better for photography when walking and travelling.
For camera backpacks I know they are seen as a fad. But I love my Brevitte backpack. I have had it the entire time I have been taking photos, and have never looked back. It makes me purposely limit the gear I bring. It is comfortable. And for worse or better, it doesn’t look like a camera backpacks.
I have the a7r2 and that body will satisfy most needs. When my camera dies, I will miss it. I do kinda regret getting the 200-600f5.6-6.3, I thought I was going to use it a lot to photograph my son playing football, but the low stadium lights forced me to shoot with the clunky 70200gm Mk1. I wish I would have gotten the 100-400gm, but maybe I will use the 200-600 to capture my youngest playing another outdoor sport.
I use a random bagpack I got at a conference for camera gear, but oddly use the camera bag when going on trips (for non camera stuff). Prefer to travel with "personal item" only and no additional luggage, the bagpack's the perfect size and has optional dividers, place for a tablet, etc. Not as comfortable as the rando bag though.
Even thouh the newest of the newest isn't necessary, I want a second body, so I don't have to switch lenses and I know I can save money on getting a current or older camera, but I will wait and buy the A7V as the second body, makes sense for me.
What will be on a7v , global shutter most people don't need? a LCD screen like a rich brother's, some feature from a6700 & a9 ? I know my 2.5 yr old a7iv will
be good for another 8 full yrs. Ever since the earliest electronic (film) SLR cameras days (I can't say the same about all- mechanicals) I've been over-paying
for stuff I don't use. Can hardly recall how many few times I used auto. These days,
some videos, AF w/ mirrorless (not full time) w/ Auto ISO. Auto iso is So Liberating!
My "most reckless" days w/ XP1/ 2 were long over. I grew up on Agfachromes (DIN18)=asa=iso50, the only thing a kid could afford to shoot often (proc. & return postage included) using fixed focals (called primes these days by many "subprimes")
to compose w/ feet as tightly as to the teeth. I had some (really) kind words to
iso-Monks & iso-100 gurus in some other channel somewhere (don't remember where!). Use of cheap but good TTartisans & my m-mounts(other than the 1.5 crop)
on a6 series bodies solves the battery problems too. Manu-lenses don't suck power.
These small a6's rigs (running auto-iso) are (almost) like (/ feel like) cheap
digital rf-L's on steroid! There is still auto-Aperture for those who prefer. No more spending on big-old-L's (incl. Pan-Lum too?), on the other hand the 5-yr old 1"-wonder
sony rx100 vii is selling for $1300. gone up? tempting?
@@user-pg5rt7ju4f I'd be fine with another A7IV as well, but what are you so upset about. Why are you telling me about the entire camera gear history? Is it really that bad that I want to wait for a newer camera to be released? Why would people not like a global shutter, doubt it will have one btw, but I'd like a global shutter, which would be really useful.
The biggest jump I noticed on camera upgrade wasn't maxxum 9000->a77, but a77->a77ii.
I think another piece of kit I've bought and rarely use is a flash. Doubt they'll ever get used beyond once every 2-3 years with me
I used to use my flash loads (weddings, studio shoots etc) but I'm not sure I'd even know how to use it now!
Thanks for uploading. Fortunately, I haven't been too crazy in my camera purchases. My first tripod was a Sachtler tripod with Flowtech - yes, it was expensive, but luckily, I could get an exhibition model for a slightly better price. It was worth it, and I still have it. For a long time, I had a Canon 5D Mark iii for taking pictures and a Blackmagic 4k pocket with a speed booster for film. I have sold it. Instead, I now have an R5C Canon and rent if it is a larger production or hire a cinematographer. A few weeks ago, I needed to shoot a few pictures but didn't have my camera at hand, so I just had to pull out my 5D, and it was just a pleasure to shoot it, and the customer was happy. We're a little too busy chasing the new. But when I see productions, many still use older models.
For camera bags I think the best choice is a good trekking or military pack with clamshell opening + a camera insert inside. Brands like Mystery Ranch, Tasmanian Tiger etc. Better load carrying capacity, lower base weight, more flexibility and generally better price/quality ratio
Great tips 👍🏻
Realistically speaking, I use a monopod far more often than I use a tripod when I'm outside of the house.
I sometimes use a monopod outdoors when doing horses with long, heavy lenses. Much more mobile than a tripod- which is a safety issue for me too.