Micael, I have always loved macro photography. However, the genre has always been challenging for me. But ever since I stumbled on your channel a few months ago, my macro skills have exponentially grown. You are an amazing teacher of photography! What would be worth thousands of dollars in a course, you are sharing on your channel for no cost at all! I have learnt so much from you right from focusing techniques through composition to post-processing macro images. I can now make macro photos that I’m proud to publish on my IG page. In fact, I tagged you on my fav macro photo attributing credit to your phenomenal mentorship. More power to you!
As A 17 year old macro photographer I want to thank you tho, I learned alot of you and I won the Hasselblad masters 2023 a few weeks ago. Also because of you man. 🤘🏻💥
@e.baaijens9460. I've viewed some of the photographs that you've uploaded to Instagram and I was so impressed that I've immediately clicked on the 'Follow' button. When I have more time, I will certainly be returning there to view other photographs that you've uploaded. 👍♥✅☑✔🇬🇧
I 100% respect your decision. Still I hope you will keep this channel live but only post when you have that passion. We really need honest people like you sharing because you love the topic. And down to earth show us what is possible with affordable equipment.
I’m in my 80’s now and certainly understand how you can get tired of doing the same old thing. Whenever I take a passion and use it for monitory purposes, it quickly becomes tedium. You are smart, creative and great at explaining complex subjects. I for one have learned how to improve my photography by carefully watching and listening to your videos. Thank you for that. Now is the time for you to find your new life passion, and if you can, share with us. We are looking forward the what Micael Widell has to say on philosophy, so we can get an even wider perspective on life.
When your everyday life was to chase the 100k subscribers, doing almost the same video, at least 1-2 times per 2 weeks (as a MUST to monetize by youtube, not with "free will"), then you are fed up. But me, as a photographer, I never worked around one thing on my socials, I saw people beeing trapped in posting one content, like.. Only wildlife, Only birds, Only macro portraits, Only flower portraits, and if they post anything different they have no audience.. EVERYONE will be fed up of posting one thing over.. and over... and over... This is not even a hobby anymore if you have to live like that. So the message to everyone is: STOP WORKING AROUND ONE CONTENT. Stop doing everything around working for begginers, we as a humans needs to feel a point in life, we need to develop, we need to feel inside "we keep going". You can be fed up of photography, as you can be fed up of eating THE SAME FOOD for 2 weeks, everyday.. Imagine eating the same a few months, and then a few years. Brain needs to be stimulated.. Biology.
Maybe you're confusing work with hobby? Most of us have to earn a living and, more often than not, that involves repetitive tasks for years on end. Yes, you can go for promotion, change your job, even change your career, but ultimately even being an airline pilot or surgeon becomes same o, same o. I don't know whether this is his primary source of income, but Micael certainly appears to have been doing this as work for several years and, like with most other jobs, you don't get the luxury of choosing task for novelty. Good luck to him, anyway.
@@davidf6326 You didn't catch the clue, people trap themselves in their content from beggining. He's content creator, not a guy who work physically in normal job, I am not talking about normal job which requires repetitive taks, he doesn't need to do that. And you want or not, brain needs to be stimulated.
@@pentagramyt417Both of you and David are true at this one. You might want to explore how algorithm also (somehow) favour repetitive contents. Hence this video explain why he got sick with this, but knowing that his channel might suffered from content's change. It's up to him and his priority. That being said, photographers should do various genres outside their expertise.
I am in my 60s now and shot my first macro back in the film days maybe 50 years ago. I took a lot of images I loved and moved to digital maybe 20 years ago. I can watch the progress I made through my images. I read everything I could, I really loved the work of John Shaw. I can say the single best thing that has impressed my macro photography has been discovering your channel. Personally, I am a seasonal macrophotography, deep summer and fungi in fall. I am a naturalist first, so I drift from bird, landscape, and macro. If you can, do some travel, especially if you can hit tropical locations. I bring everything from a 500mm to 15mm on almost every trip, with a small macro and foldable diffuser that you recommended. And mix up your techniques, keep it fresh. Thank you for everything.
One of the great things with UA-cam is you leave a legacy. The videos endure. It's a lasting contribution to the world. And you have an incredible portfolio of work here on UA-cam, in addition to your macro photography portfolio. As a fellow person who has a *lot* of experience with burnout, you're doing exactly the best thing you could possibly do: shifting gears and looking for that sense of wonder and excitement again. 100% agreed about making the most of every moment.
I’m one of your newest subscribers. I’m just getting into macro photography and your channel has been an invaluable resource already. You’ve given the world a great gift by sharing your passion for macro photography here. Thank you very much. I hope you continue to share your passions, whatever they may be.
How ironic that, at the end of your macro journey, I just began mine this summer, and I did so primarily because of your channel. Thank you for sharing your experience, your methods, and your art, so that I could learn and gain confidence. Best wishes to you on your next project!
Congrats on YT award! Had same feeling with macrophotography, then tried macro video and felt like a child again. If you still have A7IV get sony 90mm or new 70-200 F4 Macro to explore animated macro world :)
Ever consider taking an entomology or botany course (e.g. insect taxonomy, mycology, native plants of your region)? I'm a bit biased, but they make you aware of an entire world of biodiversity hidden to most people and makes the species you encounter more meaningful.
Huge congratulations on everything. I have only just started macro photography and I’m obsessed with your channel. You’re a fantastic teacher and your videos and sharing your knowledge is incredible. Thank you so much for everything 🙏😍📷
Firstly congratulations on receiving the UA-cam certificate Micael. You deserve it, your hard work and hours spent on making videos are finally recognised and rewarded. Well done! Also a huge congratulations on your interview featured in the magazine. You must be buzzing 😄 Secondly, I'm like 99% sure that every photographer in some point gets through a "giving up" phase. I'm actually in this time in my life when I feel like having a break. It's not a total burnt out, it's just like having a "holiday". And good job I don't do photography for living 😂 Anyway, whatever floats your boat, I'm still gonna watch your UA-cam videos ❤
I've been feeling this same way for a while now with wildlife photography. I wish you well, brother. You deserve all the success going forward. Your videos will remain a positive impact on the entire photography community.
Congratulations Micael, on your accomplishments and your new direction. I am 70 years old and have had passion in many areas that eventually failed to inspire me, prompting new directions. I agree that when you feel like you are repeating yourself it is time to move on. For me, when I lost my joy in a venture, the quality of my work soon lost its magic and became a little dull. The happiness of finding a new direction can be rejuvenating and once again the world's mysteries can be heard calling. I will miss these great macro videos and look forward to seeing where you go next.
Thanks for the videos Micael!! I really enjoyed your videos on macro photography. You helped me out a lot in learning this style. I will miss your videos on macro, but I wish you the best of luck in your next channel!
Your videos have taught me so much! You have given me (and thousands of others) the ability to understand and enjoy macro photography on a new level. Thanks and good luck on your future endeavors, whatever they may be!
Thank you for the dedication and your integrity over the past years. I love your videos and they got me started on macro. You made a difference in my life: I have a few shots that I am very proud of and I 100% owe them to you. You are one of my favorite youtuber because you are a straight shooter and focused on helping people. You gave me advice on your Patreon page and help me get better. I 100% agree that only doing a single genre can become repetitive and boring. When I talk about photography to 'outsiders" I always tell them that its actually many different hobbies (landscape, portrait, street, macro,...) rolled-up under a single umbrella. I wish you all the best in your next projects. Eric from Canada
Just two words: thank you! I'm very happy I have found your channel last year. It helps me grow as a photographer. I also was fed up with some genres of photography. So I just stopped with that. And because of that, I developed myself at other genres. Like macro and wildlife. So yes. Thank you Micael. You will find your way.
I wish you great success in your next venture on UA-cam. I hope you're as successful with any subject matter you undertake! I look forward to watching and learning what you have to say! Thank you!!
Congratulations Micael for these achievements.And may I suggest to branch into different types of photography that will keep you interested in this field. And as you mentioned probably keep making at least 1 or 2 videos a month. Wish you best of luck in your future endeavours.
Micael, do what you want to do man. That said, just know that you have spawned many of us into that art. Whatever you do next, you will most definitely kick major ass! It would be super cool to see many other sides of your photo journey man, but damn, I hope we see you in the macro context! I am as excited as you for all of your new experiences!
It's your honesty for me. Very real. And nothing fake about your videos. Thank you for contributing to my Macro photography journey . Wishing you a the very best and hope you find yourself something new you love to do again. Thanks for being you. Ps. What's gonna happen to all your gear? Hit me up if you want to sell.😅
Felicitaciones Micael! Muy merecido! Desde hace más de 5 años veo tus videos para saber más y estar actualizado del mundo macro, una de las cosas que siempre valoro es tu opinión sincera de todo, un saludo bien lejos desde otro continente un poco más caluroso! Muchas gracias por todo lo que he aprendido, mucha suerte en tus nuevos caminos!
Micael All I know about macro photography came from you and your passion on this channel. Thank you for that. You tell it straight. No fluff. I hope your macro mojo returns. If not ... good luck with your new project.
Congratulations on all of your accomplishments!! I always enjoy your videos and hope you find your love for macro photography again. However if you don’t, good for you for following your heart!!
Congratulations on reaching your goals and receiving such recognition for your work. Our paths are all different, as humans and photographers. While yours might be coming to an end, your channel has & will inspire and coach those who are beginning their path. Thank you
After learning some techniques from you and crafting my own diffuser for my flash, I joined my photography club field trip. I did get strange looks because of the big cone around my lens! When I showed my shots I received lots of compliments! I amazed myself, too. I would love a 2:1 lens, but $$$$! But I am thankful for the 100mm macro lens that I have. The auto focus doesn’t work so I only use it for macro photography. Thank you for sharing your videos. Congrats on the YT milestone!
Wishing you the best in your upcoming projects! Also, if you're looking to breath a bit of life back into your Macro work, you might want to give ultraviolet lighting a shot. It can be a lot of fun just exploring what plants, insects and rocks fluoresce in the dark, then capturing the details that almost no one has seen before.
Your channel name is not macro specific..... and variety is the spice of life!! Honestly I didn't subscribe to your channel because it was just on macro photography.. In fact I didn't even think about it! I'll continue watching regardless of your subject matter.. You make good video's.. that's why I subscribed.....
i've only watched a few videos of yours (so far HAHA!) and your info has been EXTREMELY helpful and given a massive kickstart to my macro photography foray! thank you so much for all you do!
I was a bit saddened to hear that you’re feeling this way. You've always been such an inspiration and source of motivation to me. Reaching a plateau can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be a sign to stop-maybe it’s a sign to rethink, adjust, and grow in new directions.There’s still so much out there to explore, especially in macro photography. What if you traveled the world to photograph rare species? You could share the challenges, unexpected obstacles, and how you overcame them with your viewers. Or maybe you could expand into film-create documentaries on certain species, letting your audience experience the quirks and wonders of insect life. You could dive into learning editing, storytelling, managing a crew, or the business side of filmmaking. There’s a lot of untouched ground waiting for you, and I truly believe you have the creativity and drive to make something amazing.
Congratulations on your success. I wish you all the best for the future in whatever endeavour you choose. Thank you very much for all the time & effort you have put into this channel. I've learnt so much about macro photography from you.
Congratulations on your UA-cam silver award, well deserved. I have leant kids from you. Great that you have also been recognised in the magazine. Hope you carry on and do more great work and enjoy which ever way you go into the future.
Wow Micael! Congrats, congrats, and on the office... congrats!!! I can't even remember how many times I've mentioned you in my own videos. Although macro isn't a major focus for me, your channel and your chill approach have definitely had some influence on me. I think a silver play button will be very far off for me still, but I'll keep working at it lol.
May I suggest something? If you're fed up with macro photography, why not now focus on macro videograohy? It's an exciting and challenging field, not only in the technical aspects but also storytelling, editing, etc. I'm sure you have seen those BBC documentaries about insects and spiders that are so engaging (Kung Fu Mantis is one of the great ones). I'm pretty excited myself for spring to arrive in order to test my new Sony ZV-E1 with insects autofocus tracking and produce a few videos of those jumping spiders I love so much. Cheers from Argentina!
I’ve been watching your tubes for the last 2-3 years, I learned so much at the start and have hopefully put that into practice, i also point newcomers to your channel, you’re a great teacher. Most of all I have just enjoyed watching whatever you’ve been up to. Congratulations on your achievements I wish you all the best in whatever next inspires you
Congratulations, Michael! On both the subscribers and the magazine. My goal is to get published in a magazine for similar reasons. Nothing like having your work in your hands physically published. I understand being fed up. I got that way with wildlife, but started doing street and landscape. And just doing other things (swimming). Anyhow, follow your passions, man!
Thanks for all your great videos, Micael. I'm In my 70's and they've inspired me in many ways. Luckily I haven't got fed up with photography yet. When I get a bit bored I either switch the subject (butterflies to spiders in the autumn to birds in the winter) or travel to another country or part of Korea, where I live. I'm surprised you haven't done much photographing of butterflies - but, hey, we're all different! You say you only like photographing your family now. Well there's a possible answer! The better your record of the family now, the more pleasure you'll all get looking back at it in 20 years. Anyway, I hope you find a new use for your office space - and secretly I hope to see more of your macro videos in the future, if that's the way the cookie crumbles. Good luck!
Congratulations !!! and many thanks for your advise about macro photography. Really helpful and a delight to follow your movies. All the best wishes for the future and please keep doing your fantastic videos.
I began my career as a life long photography profession in 1976. A degree followed by countless seminars and founding a general service studio for 24 years. I joined a university as a scientific photographer on a research vessel for 15 years. To tell you the truth, I hate being around other photographers. Most do not have a skill set which I do not possess and they could not teach me anything. But you my friend are an exception. You would be welcome at my campfire. I do understand and remember the excitement of the newness and excitement which accompanied this experience. In my life, time heals and always with in a period of 6 weeks to two months something in photography will challenge and renew you again. Patience my latent image friend.
I'm not an usual here but when I started doing macro a year ago, some of your videos were very useful for me. I don't intend to dedicate to that professionally, just as a hobby, because yes, buying the camera and macro lens, and trying, for it was discovering a new hobby. Maybe my pics are not super pro but I don't mind, as long as I feel satisfied. With all this, I just wanna say thank you, and take a break!! When you do the same time for long time, you get tired, and it's normal. Take a break and when you feel ready, you'll feel with more energy. Even if you are fed up now, maybe after some months you'll start missing it and you'll return back. That's what happened me with my passions.
Such videos are not easy to do... But thanks for being honnest. I totally understand. Thanks for all the videos you've done. You're one that made me try macro, and I'm still learning that.
Congratulations, Michael, very well done! I love your videos. Such big and well deserved changes. It sounds to me as if you need a holiday. Don’t forget to exercise that always helps put me to get in the right mind set. I will look forward to your new videos.
First off, congratulations on your play button and your magazine article!! 😀 it's a shame you're loosing your passion for macro photography but I get it. Hopefully you'll get it back even if just for your own enjoyment. Thanks for all the vert helpful videos you've provided and good luck with whatever comes next! 😀
Michael we have to respect a decision you take for your own good. Please know that your channel is an inspiration to those who are starting and / or struggling. Thanks for your work.
Congratulation Micael on your youtube award. You have been an inspiration for taking macro photography. I have a suggestion, you could make your future video basis on location. 1. Enjoy the location and maybe watch the sun rise. 2. Look for subject to shoot near and far (near - macro) & (far - landscape). Sometime we tend to missed out on the bigger things when we are too focus on smaller things in life. I look forward to more of your content. Thank you.
There is a season to all things Michael. Embrace it and feel excited for what life has in store for you now. You can't embrace the future if you are holding on to the past. I am excited for you!!
First off, congratulations on the You Tube award, the magazine spread, and the new studio. All big things and great things. I've watched and thoroughly enjoyed hundreds of your videos. Thank you. I'll miss seeing new macro videos as I really like them. That said, I'm a believer that you have to do what you want to do. I wish you the best of luck in whatever you choose. Again, thank you, for all of the great content.
Hey Michael, Life is a lot like the earth-always dynamic and changing. I see it as a gift from God that we naturally find new interests over time. There's no need to apologize for moving on from macro photography videos. I've truly appreciated all your content, and earning a silver play button is a huge accomplishment! Congrats on that and the magazine article. It'd be awesome to see you explore another segment of photography, but if something different sparks your passion, go for it! Keep up your positive attitude-it's been a pleasure following your journey.
Of course I can’t and won’t tell you what you should do or what would reignite your passion but I would be very excited to watch you learn a new style of photography, weather that be wildlife in some other way or any goal to achieve within photography.
I totally understand your feelings and descision. If you don’t feel it any longer don’t do it anymore, something new and exciting is already waiting fo you! Same here, I‘ve been where you are and also choose a new route for my macro photography … Anyway, good luck for you!
Bravo Micael pour ce prix, c'est toi qui m'a donné l'envie de photographier ce petit monde microscopique qui vie à nos pied. Continu ton travail, c'est passionnant 👍
I'm new to macro photography, and after i saw one of your videos doing macro shots, i really loved to try this kind of photography, and now i went to buy a lawow lens with a flash you recommended and now i have a new passion for taking pictures because of you so thank you very much ❤
Congratulations on your achievements and your realization that it may be time to challenge new frontiers. I’ve enjoyed learning about your techniques and your critiques of lenses and equipment of which some I consequently purchased. I only dabble in insect photography as I enjoy bird, landscape and travel photography as well. It is just a hobby for me but with enough diversity that the camera is still a friend. Thank you and good luck in the future.
All the best Micael , we always love your work. Stay blessed. We learnt many things from you. I am obliged for that. I am sure you will be excellant in any other subject because of your sincerity. Thanks
I have enjoyed your videos. I admire you honesty about this topic. All I can say is don't feel guilty about your state of mind. Please follow your heart. Best regards.
Thank you for the videos you've made. You helped me get a good idea of what macro photography is all about, and I appreciate it. Hopefully you take a good amount of time away from macro and do something else, and then come back excited and ready for more.
Thank you for your great contribution to getting people started in macro work. Passions always fade away and you find others to absorb you. Look forward to seeing your future output. I am sure that it will be worth a watch. Good luck
I feel the same way. I haven’t done any nature photography, macro also being my favorite, in a year or two. I charged my battery today, but didn’t use it the last time it had a full charge. Take a break, long break if you need to, and come back someday. Maybe try another genre. I wouldn’t give up the channel though, so many people still learn from your older videos. Taking time off from here never hurts. Your true supporters will always be here for you. We would even follow a new topic if you choose to go that direction on this channel. ❤
I am an astrophotography and kind of going through the same feeling right now. But I feel my issue is more of my location than actually not liking it anymore. I live in the United States Midwest and the weather here has just been awful for months. The humidity has been so bad this year and out of nowhere it just starts pouring rain for 5 minutes. There is too much light pollution by my location and I have accepted the fact that I wont be entirely happy until I start traveling to darker skies and having more consistent weather. When I get out of college I plan on moving towards the desert area. But in the meantime, it has made macrophotography quite amazing this year. I found a nature reserve by my area that I never new existed and everytime I go out there I find something new! I know you're fed up but if you ever have the opportunity, you should go through some of the insects you don't usually post? I have never seen you put a jumping spider on the channel or other exotic insects. Do you have them in your area? I hope you start travelling more it will definitely change your perspective a bit!
I started with portraits and landscape photography 12 years ago, it was so exciting to do and i would never ever thought i would stop making those photo's. But i had the same thing as you, i had the feeling i was repeating myself.... and lost interest in those 2 subjects and i was expecting to stop making photo's. But after a few months without photography i shifted my subjects to macro and bird photography, which i enjoy at the moment. And i am sure i will do portraits and landscape photo's again, it's just low key right now. You will find some subject which gives you the same excitement as when you stared with macro! And hopefully you will show us your experiences on that route!
I was in Photography School in the 1980’s and enjoyed my Nature Photography classes so much I purchased some Olympus Macro gear including flashes, brackets, and continued on mostly in the 1/2x - 2x range, until like you, I got satisfied I understood the process and therefore could capture high quality images of insects and plants. One area I explored with some success going forward was using polarizers on the lenses but also on the flashes allowing me for example to photograph in tide pools without reflections. Your photos with the soft light box approach are almost "too perfect”. Perhaps I could challenge you to move to the twin flash setup, play around with different power settings or use neutral density filters on the flashes, add a bit of polarization along with some shadows in the compositions to create images that have a dreamy look, perhaps of plant parts, mushrooms, the woodland floor, larger insects, even manmade items, whatever lends itself to dramatic lighting. Even have remote flashes that back light the edges of plants as an example. You get the idea...
I've said many times that you have been a massive inspiration to me and a huge help to me starting my macro journey. So thank you for all your knowledge ❤
Whatever you decide, I hope you are able to express the same huge enthusiasm that comes over in your macro videos. You are and have been, an inspiration to so many people. You have helped them and me a great deal and I wish you every success in any new venture you decide upon. So, a big thank you from me and I think also from 1000s or 10s of 1000s of others. I'll look out for your new channel and harbour a hope that maybe you'll make some more videos on macro photography as well!
Congratulations on your award. Your macro videos have helped me enormously…but I still have along way to go. Your teaching style is great. Enjoy your new journey…please keep the videos of whatever……..
When your passion becomes your job it's hard to maintain the energy and excitement
Exactly
Micael, I have always loved macro photography. However, the genre has always been challenging for me. But ever since I stumbled on your channel a few months ago, my macro skills have exponentially grown. You are an amazing teacher of photography! What would be worth thousands of dollars in a course, you are sharing on your channel for no cost at all! I have learnt so much from you right from focusing techniques through composition to post-processing macro images. I can now make macro photos that I’m proud to publish on my IG page. In fact, I tagged you on my fav macro photo attributing credit to your phenomenal mentorship. More power to you!
As one of UA-cam's "good guys', I'm glad you are getting the recognition you deserve.
As A 17 year old macro photographer I want to thank you tho, I learned alot of you and I won the Hasselblad masters 2023 a few weeks ago. Also because of you man. 🤘🏻💥
Wow that’s a great accomplishment. Happy to inspire the next generation :)
@@MicaelWidell 😁 Thanks alot!
I just found your instagram and your photos are awesome!!!
@@Scyth3934 hey man! Appreciate you!! 😁🫵🏼
@e.baaijens9460. I've viewed some of the photographs that you've uploaded to Instagram and I was so impressed that I've immediately clicked on the 'Follow' button. When I have more time, I will certainly be returning there to view other photographs that you've uploaded. 👍♥✅☑✔🇬🇧
I 100% respect your decision. Still I hope you will keep this channel live but only post when you have that passion. We really need honest people like you sharing because you love the topic. And down to earth show us what is possible with affordable equipment.
Congratulations on your success Micael, I will you all the best for the future!
I’m in my 80’s now and certainly understand how you can get tired of doing the same old thing. Whenever I take a passion and use it for monitory purposes, it quickly becomes tedium. You are smart, creative and great at explaining complex subjects. I for one have learned how to improve my photography by carefully watching and listening to your videos. Thank you for that. Now is the time for you to find your new life passion, and if you can, share with us. We are looking forward the what Micael Widell has to say on philosophy, so we can get an even wider perspective on life.
When your everyday life was to chase the 100k subscribers, doing almost the same video, at least 1-2 times per 2 weeks (as a MUST to monetize by youtube, not with "free will"), then you are fed up.
But me, as a photographer, I never worked around one thing on my socials, I saw people beeing trapped in posting one content, like.. Only wildlife, Only birds, Only macro portraits, Only flower portraits, and if they post anything different they have no audience.. EVERYONE will be fed up of posting one thing over.. and over... and over... This is not even a hobby anymore if you have to live like that.
So the message to everyone is: STOP WORKING AROUND ONE CONTENT. Stop doing everything around working for begginers, we as a humans needs to feel a point in life, we need to develop, we need to feel inside "we keep going". You can be fed up of photography, as you can be fed up of eating THE SAME FOOD for 2 weeks, everyday.. Imagine eating the same a few months, and then a few years. Brain needs to be stimulated.. Biology.
Maybe you're confusing work with hobby?
Most of us have to earn a living and, more often than not, that involves repetitive tasks for years on end. Yes, you can go for promotion, change your job, even change your career, but ultimately even being an airline pilot or surgeon becomes same o, same o.
I don't know whether this is his primary source of income, but Micael certainly appears to have been doing this as work for several years and, like with most other jobs, you don't get the luxury of choosing task for novelty.
Good luck to him, anyway.
@@davidf6326 You didn't catch the clue, people trap themselves in their content from beggining. He's content creator, not a guy who work physically in normal job, I am not talking about normal job which requires repetitive taks, he doesn't need to do that. And you want or not, brain needs to be stimulated.
@@pentagramyt417Both of you and David are true at this one. You might want to explore how algorithm also (somehow) favour repetitive contents. Hence this video explain why he got sick with this, but knowing that his channel might suffered from content's change. It's up to him and his priority.
That being said, photographers should do various genres outside their expertise.
Really like this advice. So tired of seeing photographer “influencers” say to find a style and stick to it
Wish you all the very best Micael!
Congrats man on your accomplishment. I really love your macro work and your channel has been a big educational tool in my learning of photography.
Thanks
Thanks for being honest/transparent with your subscribers. Good to see you following your evolving pssions in life.
I am in my 60s now and shot my first macro back in the film days maybe 50 years ago. I took a lot of images I loved and moved to digital maybe 20 years ago. I can watch the progress I made through my images. I read everything I could, I really loved the work of John Shaw. I can say the single best thing that has impressed my macro photography has been discovering your channel. Personally, I am a seasonal macrophotography, deep summer and fungi in fall. I am a naturalist first, so I drift from bird, landscape, and macro. If you can, do some travel, especially if you can hit tropical locations. I bring everything from a 500mm to 15mm on almost every trip, with a small macro and foldable diffuser that you recommended. And mix up your techniques, keep it fresh. Thank you for everything.
One of the great things with UA-cam is you leave a legacy. The videos endure. It's a lasting contribution to the world.
And you have an incredible portfolio of work here on UA-cam, in addition to your macro photography portfolio.
As a fellow person who has a *lot* of experience with burnout, you're doing exactly the best thing you could possibly do: shifting gears and looking for that sense of wonder and excitement again. 100% agreed about making the most of every moment.
I’m one of your newest subscribers. I’m just getting into macro photography and your channel has been an invaluable resource already. You’ve given the world a great gift by sharing your passion for macro photography here. Thank you very much. I hope you continue to share your passions, whatever they may be.
How ironic that, at the end of your macro journey, I just began mine this summer, and I did so primarily because of your channel. Thank you for sharing your experience, your methods, and your art, so that I could learn and gain confidence. Best wishes to you on your next project!
Good luck Micael! I have been watching your video for so many years. Wish you the best for your new adventure!
Congrats on YT award!
Had same feeling with macrophotography, then tried macro video and felt like a child again. If you still have A7IV get sony 90mm or new 70-200 F4 Macro to explore animated macro world :)
Ever consider taking an entomology or botany course (e.g. insect taxonomy, mycology, native plants of your region)? I'm a bit biased, but they make you aware of an entire world of biodiversity hidden to most people and makes the species you encounter more meaningful.
Huge congratulations on everything. I have only just started macro photography and I’m obsessed with your channel. You’re a fantastic teacher and your videos and sharing your knowledge is incredible. Thank you so much for everything 🙏😍📷
Firstly congratulations on receiving the UA-cam certificate Micael. You deserve it, your hard work and hours spent on making videos are finally recognised and rewarded. Well done! Also a huge congratulations on your interview featured in the magazine. You must be buzzing 😄 Secondly, I'm like 99% sure that every photographer in some point gets through a "giving up" phase. I'm actually in this time in my life when I feel like having a break. It's not a total burnt out, it's just like having a "holiday". And good job I don't do photography for living 😂 Anyway, whatever floats your boat, I'm still gonna watch your UA-cam videos ❤
I've been feeling this same way for a while now with wildlife photography.
I wish you well, brother. You deserve all the success going forward. Your videos will remain a positive impact on the entire photography community.
Congratulations! Well deserved! Wish you the best in all your endeavors!
Congratulations Micael, on your accomplishments and your new direction. I am 70 years old and have had passion in many areas that eventually failed to inspire me, prompting new directions. I agree that when you feel like you are repeating yourself it is time to move on. For me, when I lost my joy in a venture, the quality of my work soon lost its magic and became a little dull. The happiness of finding a new direction can be rejuvenating and once again the world's mysteries can be heard calling. I will miss these great macro videos and look forward to seeing where you go next.
Thanks for the videos Micael!! I really enjoyed your videos on macro photography. You helped me out a lot in learning this style. I will miss your videos on macro, but I wish you the best of luck in your next channel!
Your videos have taught me so much!
You have given me (and thousands of others) the ability to understand and enjoy macro photography on a new level.
Thanks and good luck on your future endeavors, whatever they may be!
Thank you for the dedication and your integrity over the past years. I love your videos and they got me started on macro. You made a difference in my life: I have a few shots that I am very proud of and I 100% owe them to you. You are one of my favorite youtuber because you are a straight shooter and focused on helping people. You gave me advice on your Patreon page and help me get better. I 100% agree that only doing a single genre can become repetitive and boring. When I talk about photography to 'outsiders" I always tell them that its actually many different hobbies (landscape, portrait, street, macro,...) rolled-up under a single umbrella. I wish you all the best in your next projects. Eric from Canada
Just two words: thank you! I'm very happy I have found your channel last year. It helps me grow as a photographer. I also was fed up with some genres of photography. So I just stopped with that. And because of that, I developed myself at other genres. Like macro and wildlife. So yes. Thank you Micael. You will find your way.
I wish you great success in your next venture on UA-cam. I hope you're as successful with any subject matter you undertake! I look forward to watching and learning what you have to say! Thank you!!
Congratulations Micael for these achievements.And may I suggest to branch into different types of photography that will keep you interested in this field. And as you mentioned probably keep making at least 1 or 2 videos a month. Wish you best of luck in your future endeavours.
Micael, do what you want to do man. That said, just know that you have spawned many of us into that art. Whatever you do next, you will most definitely kick major ass! It would be super cool to see many other sides of your photo journey man, but damn, I hope we see you in the macro context! I am as excited as you for all of your new experiences!
It's your honesty for me. Very real. And nothing fake about your videos. Thank you for contributing to my Macro photography journey .
Wishing you a the very best and hope you find yourself something new you love to do again. Thanks for being you.
Ps. What's gonna happen to all your gear? Hit me up if you want to sell.😅
Wow, congratulations on your huge UA-cam and magazine milestones! I look forward to seeing your future projects, in whatever that may be.
congratulations Micael...for the youtube milestone. sure you will rediscover the passion.
Congratulations Michael and good luck for the future! I have learnt a lot from you which I am very grateful for. Regards from Melbourne
Felicitaciones Micael! Muy merecido! Desde hace más de 5 años veo tus videos para saber más y estar actualizado del mundo macro, una de las cosas que siempre valoro es tu opinión sincera de todo, un saludo bien lejos desde otro continente un poco más caluroso! Muchas gracias por todo lo que he aprendido, mucha suerte en tus nuevos caminos!
Micael
All I know about macro photography came from you and your passion on this channel. Thank you for that. You tell it straight. No fluff.
I hope your macro mojo returns. If not ... good luck with your new project.
Congratulations on all of your accomplishments!! I always enjoy your videos and hope you find your love for macro photography again. However if you don’t, good for you for following your heart!!
Congratulations on reaching your goals and receiving such recognition for your work.
Our paths are all different, as humans and photographers. While yours might be coming to an end, your channel has & will inspire and coach those who are beginning their path. Thank you
Well done on you great success in the career you are obviously very skilled and passionate about. Never give up, Never surrender!!! From NZ
After learning some techniques from you and crafting my own diffuser for my flash, I joined my photography club field trip. I did get strange looks because of the big cone around my lens! When I showed my shots I received lots of compliments! I amazed myself, too. I would love a 2:1 lens, but $$$$! But I am thankful for the 100mm macro lens that I have. The auto focus doesn’t work so I only use it for macro photography. Thank you for sharing your videos. Congrats on the YT milestone!
Wishing you the best in your upcoming projects! Also, if you're looking to breath a bit of life back into your Macro work, you might want to give ultraviolet lighting a shot. It can be a lot of fun just exploring what plants, insects and rocks fluoresce in the dark, then capturing the details that almost no one has seen before.
Congratulation on the magazine recognition! I've followed along for about 4-5 years and I'm thrilled to see you being recognized!
Your channel name is not macro specific..... and variety is the spice of life!! Honestly I didn't subscribe to your channel because it was just on macro photography.. In fact I didn't even think about it! I'll continue watching regardless of your subject matter.. You make good video's.. that's why I subscribed.....
Happy you feel that way! But I know from experience that most people follow me because they are interested in macro photography.
Congratulations! The recognition with both the magazine & the silver button are both very well deserved.
i've only watched a few videos of yours (so far HAHA!) and your info has been EXTREMELY helpful and given a massive kickstart to my macro photography foray! thank you so much for all you do!
I was a bit saddened to hear that you’re feeling this way. You've always been such an inspiration and source of motivation to me. Reaching a plateau can be frustrating, but it doesn’t have to be a sign to stop-maybe it’s a sign to rethink, adjust, and grow in new directions.There’s still so much out there to explore, especially in macro photography.
What if you traveled the world to photograph rare species? You could share the challenges, unexpected obstacles, and how you overcame them with your viewers. Or maybe you could expand into film-create documentaries on certain species, letting your audience experience the quirks and wonders of insect life. You could dive into learning editing, storytelling, managing a crew, or the business side of filmmaking.
There’s a lot of untouched ground waiting for you, and I truly believe you have the creativity and drive to make something amazing.
Congratulations on your success. I wish you all the best for the future in whatever endeavour you choose. Thank you very much for all the time & effort you have put into this channel. I've learnt so much about macro photography from you.
thanks Micael, I've learned a lot about macro photography from you. I wish you all the best for your future projects
Congratulations on your UA-cam silver award, well deserved. I have leant kids from you. Great that you have also been recognised in the magazine. Hope you carry on and do more great work and enjoy which ever way you go into the future.
Wow Micael! Congrats, congrats, and on the office... congrats!!! I can't even remember how many times I've mentioned you in my own videos. Although macro isn't a major focus for me, your channel and your chill approach have definitely had some influence on me. I think a silver play button will be very far off for me still, but I'll keep working at it lol.
Yaay, so "Micael Widell on Life" channel will resurrect? 🎉 Looking forward to it
May I suggest something? If you're fed up with macro photography, why not now focus on macro videograohy? It's an exciting and challenging field, not only in the technical aspects but also storytelling, editing, etc. I'm sure you have seen those BBC documentaries about insects and spiders that are so engaging (Kung Fu Mantis is one of the great ones). I'm pretty excited myself for spring to arrive in order to test my new Sony ZV-E1 with insects autofocus tracking and produce a few videos of those jumping spiders I love so much. Cheers from Argentina!
I’ve been watching your tubes for the last 2-3 years, I learned so much at the start and have hopefully put that into practice, i also point newcomers to your channel, you’re a great teacher. Most of all I have just enjoyed watching whatever you’ve been up to. Congratulations on your achievements I wish you all the best in whatever next inspires you
Congratulations, Michael! On both the subscribers and the magazine. My goal is to get published in a magazine for similar reasons. Nothing like having your work in your hands physically published. I understand being fed up. I got that way with wildlife, but started doing street and landscape. And just doing other things (swimming). Anyhow, follow your passions, man!
Congrats! Well deserved! Thanks for all the work.
Best of luck with your life! I'll miss your macro videos. ❤️
You should make a compilation gallery video of your favorite macro shots. It might spark some new enthusiasm. I would certainly watch it!
Thanks for all your great videos, Micael. I'm In my 70's and they've inspired me in many ways. Luckily I haven't got fed up with photography yet. When I get a bit bored I either switch the subject
(butterflies to spiders in the autumn to birds in the winter) or travel to another country or part of Korea, where I live. I'm surprised you haven't done much photographing of butterflies - but, hey, we're all different! You say you only like photographing your family now. Well there's a possible answer! The better your record of the family now, the more pleasure you'll all get looking back at it in 20 years. Anyway, I hope you find a new use for your office space - and secretly I hope to see more of your macro videos in the future, if that's the way the cookie crumbles. Good luck!
Congratulations !!! and many thanks for your advise about macro photography. Really helpful and a delight to follow your movies. All the best wishes for the future and please keep doing your fantastic videos.
Congrats with 100k! Awesome.
I began my career as a life long photography profession in 1976. A degree followed by countless seminars and founding a general service studio for 24 years. I joined a university as a scientific photographer on a research vessel for 15 years. To tell you the truth, I hate being around other photographers. Most do not have a skill set which I do not possess and they could not teach me anything. But you my friend are an exception. You would be welcome at my campfire. I do understand and remember the excitement of the newness and excitement which accompanied this experience. In my life, time heals and always with in a period of 6 weeks to two months something in photography will challenge and renew you again. Patience my latent image friend.
I'm not an usual here but when I started doing macro a year ago, some of your videos were very useful for me. I don't intend to dedicate to that professionally, just as a hobby, because yes, buying the camera and macro lens, and trying, for it was discovering a new hobby. Maybe my pics are not super pro but I don't mind, as long as I feel satisfied. With all this, I just wanna say thank you, and take a break!! When you do the same time for long time, you get tired, and it's normal. Take a break and when you feel ready, you'll feel with more energy. Even if you are fed up now, maybe after some months you'll start missing it and you'll return back. That's what happened me with my passions.
Such videos are not easy to do... But thanks for being honnest. I totally understand. Thanks for all the videos you've done. You're one that made me try macro, and I'm still learning that.
Congratulations, Michael, very well done! I love your videos. Such big and well deserved changes. It sounds to me as if you need a holiday. Don’t forget to exercise that always helps put me to get in the right mind set. I will look forward to your new videos.
First off, congratulations on your play button and your magazine article!! 😀 it's a shame you're loosing your passion for macro photography but I get it. Hopefully you'll get it back even if just for your own enjoyment. Thanks for all the vert helpful videos you've provided and good luck with whatever comes next! 😀
Michael we have to respect a decision you take for your own good. Please know that your channel is an inspiration to those who are starting and / or struggling. Thanks for your work.
You have created an amazing body of work on this channel. Thank you!
Good luck on your new endeavors! I’ve subscribed to your new channel.
Congratulation Micael on your youtube award. You have been an inspiration for taking macro photography. I have a suggestion, you could make your future video basis on location. 1. Enjoy the location and maybe watch the sun rise. 2. Look for subject to shoot near and far (near - macro) & (far - landscape). Sometime we tend to missed out on the bigger things when we are too focus on smaller things in life. I look forward to more of your content. Thank you.
There is a season to all things Michael. Embrace it and feel excited for what life has in store for you now. You can't embrace the future if you are holding on to the past. I am excited for you!!
Congratulations! Keep up the great work.
First off, congratulations on the You Tube award, the magazine spread, and the new studio. All big things and great things. I've watched and thoroughly enjoyed hundreds of your videos. Thank you. I'll miss seeing new macro videos as I really like them. That said, I'm a believer that you have to do what you want to do. I wish you the best of luck in whatever you choose. Again, thank you, for all of the great content.
Hey Michael,
Life is a lot like the earth-always dynamic and changing. I see it as a gift from God that we naturally find new interests over time. There's no need to apologize for moving on from macro photography videos. I've truly appreciated all your content, and earning a silver play button is a huge accomplishment! Congrats on that and the magazine article. It'd be awesome to see you explore another segment of photography, but if something different sparks your passion, go for it! Keep up your positive attitude-it's been a pleasure following your journey.
The only constant thing is change :)
Of course I can’t and won’t tell you what you should do or what would reignite your passion but I would be very excited to watch you learn a new style of photography, weather that be wildlife in some other way or any goal to achieve within photography.
All the best in your next endeavour, I'm sure it will be successful for you
I totally understand your feelings and descision. If you don’t feel it any longer don’t do it anymore, something new and exciting is already waiting fo you! Same here, I‘ve been where you are and also choose a new route for my macro photography … Anyway, good luck for you!
Bravo Micael pour ce prix, c'est toi qui m'a donné l'envie de photographier ce petit monde microscopique qui vie à nos pied. Continu ton travail, c'est passionnant 👍
Congratulations on your achievements. I have thoroughly enjoyed your videos and wish you all the best.
I'm new to macro photography, and after i saw one of your videos doing macro shots, i really loved to try this kind of photography, and now i went to buy a lawow lens with a flash you recommended and now i have a new passion for taking pictures because of you so thank you very much ❤
Congratulations on your achievements and your realization that it may be time to challenge new frontiers. I’ve enjoyed learning about your techniques and your critiques of lenses and equipment of which some I consequently purchased. I only dabble in insect photography as I enjoy bird, landscape and travel photography as well. It is just a hobby for me but with enough diversity that the camera is still a friend. Thank you and good luck in the future.
Sharing all the variety of your photography adventures on this channel would be great!!
Congratulations! Quite an accomplishment. Love the work you have done on this channel. Wishing you all the best. Life is precious. Enjoy the journey.
Congrats on your accomplishments! You’ll do great whatever path you follow. Be yourself and follow your heart!
Thank you for all your macro efforts, Micael. I've learned so much from you. Congratulations on the zine publication.
Congratulations Micael!
May be it is a good time to start bird photography :)
All the best Micael , we always love your work. Stay blessed. We learnt many things from you. I am obliged for that. I am sure you will be excellant in any other subject because of your sincerity. Thanks
I have enjoyed your videos. I admire you honesty about this topic. All I can say is don't feel guilty about your state of mind. Please follow your heart. Best regards.
Thank you for the videos you've made. You helped me get a good idea of what macro photography is all about, and I appreciate it. Hopefully you take a good amount of time away from macro and do something else, and then come back excited and ready for more.
Congrats with this milestone. You surely deserved it.
Thank you for your great contribution to getting people started in macro work. Passions always fade away and you find others to absorb you. Look forward to seeing your future output. I am sure that it will be worth a watch. Good luck
I feel the same way. I haven’t done any nature photography, macro also being my favorite, in a year or two. I charged my battery today, but didn’t use it the last time it had a full charge.
Take a break, long break if you need to, and come back someday. Maybe try another genre. I wouldn’t give up the channel though, so many people still learn from your older videos. Taking time off from here never hurts. Your true supporters will always be here for you. We would even follow a new topic if you choose to go that direction on this channel. ❤
I am an astrophotography and kind of going through the same feeling right now. But I feel my issue is more of my location than actually not liking it anymore.
I live in the United States Midwest and the weather here has just been awful for months. The humidity has been so bad this year and out of nowhere it just starts pouring rain for 5 minutes. There is too much light pollution by my location and I have accepted the fact that I wont be entirely happy until I start traveling to darker skies and having more consistent weather. When I get out of college I plan on moving towards the desert area.
But in the meantime, it has made macrophotography quite amazing this year. I found a nature reserve by my area that I never new existed and everytime I go out there I find something new!
I know you're fed up but if you ever have the opportunity, you should go through some of the insects you don't usually post? I have never seen you put a jumping spider on the channel or other exotic insects. Do you have them in your area? I hope you start travelling more it will definitely change your perspective a bit!
Thank you for everything you’ve taught me!
I started with portraits and landscape photography 12 years ago, it was so exciting to do and i would never ever thought i would stop making those photo's. But i had the same thing as you, i had the feeling i was repeating myself.... and lost interest in those 2 subjects and i was expecting to stop making photo's. But after a few months without photography i shifted my subjects to macro and bird photography, which i enjoy at the moment. And i am sure i will do portraits and landscape photo's again, it's just low key right now. You will find some subject which gives you the same excitement as when you stared with macro! And hopefully you will show us your experiences on that route!
Yeah I think that photography will always have a place in my life. But maybe just as a way of documenting my family memories. We'll see.
I was in Photography School in the 1980’s and enjoyed my Nature Photography classes so much I purchased some Olympus Macro gear including flashes, brackets, and continued on mostly in the 1/2x - 2x range, until like you, I got satisfied I understood the process and therefore could capture high quality images of insects and plants. One area I explored with some success going forward was using polarizers on the lenses but also on the flashes allowing me for example to photograph in tide pools without reflections. Your photos with the soft light box approach are almost "too perfect”. Perhaps I could challenge you to move to the twin flash setup, play around with different power settings or use neutral density filters on the flashes, add a bit of polarization along with some shadows in the compositions to create images that have a dreamy look, perhaps of plant parts, mushrooms, the woodland floor, larger insects, even manmade items, whatever lends itself to dramatic lighting. Even have remote flashes that back light the edges of plants as an example. You get the idea...
Congratulations Michael. You deserve all the recognition you have received.
I've said many times that you have been a massive inspiration to me and a huge help to me starting my macro journey. So thank you for all your knowledge ❤
Thank you very much for all I learned from you. Bravo for the 100K. Good luck for your next projects. French subscriber from Caraibes.
Whatever you decide, I hope you are able to express the same huge enthusiasm that comes over in your macro videos. You are and have been, an inspiration to so many people. You have helped them and me a great deal and I wish you every success in any new venture you decide upon. So, a big thank you from me and I think also from 1000s or 10s of 1000s of others. I'll look out for your new channel and harbour a hope that maybe you'll make some more videos on macro photography as well!
Congratulations on your award. Your macro videos have helped me enormously…but I still have along way to go. Your teaching style is great. Enjoy your new journey…please keep the videos of whatever……..