Going forward I will make fact and opinion much clearer to avoid such confusion. If you want to learn more about photography, head here tinhouse-studio.com/
Hi Scott, trouble is, you’re operating at such a level, your insights are multivariable yet the platform has trained the users to look for, as you say, absolutes, devoid of nuance or conditional recommendations. Love your content.
I’m sure the Brits, Aussies, Kiwis, and Scandinavians all appreciated the dry satire. We have the same comedy language. Don’t change, but also this was great fodder for engagement driven content.
Well, some people have no sense of humor.😈 I wish you had posted this earlier I sold all my Nikon gear, NOT. I like your advice most times it coincides with my experience, yes I am old. I started in 1983. I think they missed the point it was being professional and building confidence in the client. BTW ,I still use black leather neck straps.😎
Nothing to apologize, you are correct. My mentor even told me a story of how he had to bring 7 lights for a job that could be done with 3 because the client started questioning why he wasn't using so many lights. So he turned the others on real low so not to affect exposure and took the same image and the client was wowed. Looking pro is a legitimate thing. That's why you rent.
I worked in TV as a location sound guy for most of my career, for the corporate gigs I'd always bring along 2-3 pelicans full of kit on a hand trolly. The thing was everything I needed I could carry, It was for perception and it worked.
@@blubravery one of the NY photographers I worked for said he would tell me the secret of photography. He leaned in and whispered so the art director couldn’t hear him - “it’s easy.”
"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function." - F. Scott Fitzgerald
This is in all truth one of the realest channels on YT for photographers who want some real, honest (sometimes painful) advice about the industry. Some people can't handle it but I personally think that you are dead on with the information and opinions you share here.
I've shot weddings with a D850 and Z8. I've also shot weddings/events with a Z8 and a D3s. Why D3s? Because with the 135mm f/2 dc, that thing is money for portraits. I wouldn't hesitate to use a 5d MkII or a D3s today in 2024 for professional work. Period. People like a little video too... so a Z8 or an R5ii is great for that. I've never had a customer say "oh god?!?! That Old camera is only 12 megapixels????" They love the photos. The photos are beautiful. GaS is a real thing, don't let it consume you. You're not going to be able to tell the difference from my Z8 or D3s when it's printed out in your photobook. Seriously. Take great pictures, make clients happy, get paid.
@boredboiseboy I personally definitely can tell the difference when I'm editing the photos. They (the client) cannot. You would be really surprised, these younger kids really like that vintage feel to their photos. The D3s with a piece of tape on the logo looks exactly the same as a D5 or D6...clients get really intimidated sometimes because of the big camera. I recently started shooting very sparingly with a Nikon Zf.. It's a big difference in client reaction and attitude. One person in particular comes to mind. That photoshoot paid for the camera so 👌 .. you gotta gauge it out when you are doing the interview with the clients. My d850 and d3s are interchangeable at this point.
@@kevinsolie2208 I enjoy when a new camera comes out or should I say a new camera spec sheet comes out and the masses begin trashing it immediately. The reason usually boils down to the mean men at the camera company didn’t make the exact camera they wanted. Another problem is they didn’t get a camera with the features of that company $6000. camera in a $1500. Body.
Perception can be a huge part of credibility. My camera gear is somewhat old and unsophisticated by today's standards, but to the unknowing eye it looks impressive. Because of that, people also assume I know what I’m doing, which isn’t always the case.
What’s that old gangster saying “trust will get you killed, loved will get your heart broken, and HONESTY will get you hated”. I love your brutal honesty because it’s accurate. I don’t consider your honesty to be satire. No apologies needed! Listen folks, clients gravitate to you because of your work and style, not because the camera you use. That initial lunch meeting where the potential client says “I love this photograph in your portfolio” you say that one I shot with a 5d mark II and this one was with a Phaseone or whatever. Read your client. If you hear them hung up on some camera or gear that you don’t own, just rent that gear the client is hung up on and include that in your proposal…simple. Funny how things work out, when clients see my portfolio they keep pointing to photos taken with my old Nikon d200 or 5d II even though they won’t let me use these cameras for their project. Lesson, these old cameras may be technically or perceptively obsolete, but they’ll get you lot’s of work if you’re a good photographer. Btw, the 5d II with 24-70L glass was the standard for most fashion campaigns back in the day, so that camera is no toy.
I used to work as an art director and commissioned photography, looking pro and being a nice person were definitely things that swayed my opinion when picking a photographer, that was back in the day when everything was shot on transparency though
This might well be your best video yet, and it’s swimming in a pretty well stocked pond let’s be honest. Personally, I’d like to thank you for your advice on never shooting with the lens hood in park if you want to look pro. I immediately passed this gem of intel on to my business partner and now he finally looks like he knows what he’s doing. Thank you Scott, keep ‘em coming.
@@garybrindle6715 Oh I don't know, judging by the paint chips on my 28mm street camera lens hood, I'd much rather the damage was to the hood than the lens itself.
Shot a 3-photo project recently on 3 different setups (logistics reasons) - £2k, £5k & £9k setup. Sent it all to a major photography competition. The £2k setup photo won it.
I chuckled at your satirical video... People who "want absolutes" haven't leveled up to where they understand that "it depends" is a valid answer. Well done sir. Keep doing you.
A dialectic is when two things that are opposite are both true at the same time. This concept is hard for some but realizing this is true opens up a new way of thinking.
Nice! So true. All of it. I've been shooting professionally for 30+ years..mostly events. And even worked in some big labs in NYC (when labs existed). It's fun and informative to hear your videos, and I especially love your "emotionally intelligent" attitude! It's fresh air.
Love these videos! A lot of sound advice imparted! Justification for high-end gear was explained clearly by you in previous videos:- Canon, Bronica, Profoto, Mamiya & Hasselblad are fully supported by Rental businesses for on-site shooting, when extra or replacement kit is needed! You have never said (as far as I am aware) that ‘x’ gear is shite/useless, you always state that ‘other’ kit may not be available when you most need it from Rental businesses. So, although Godox make great kit, this kit is not accessible through rental-channels.
You are so right in all you've said! 👏👏👏 I only have to disagree with you in one minor/accessory point. You should not "apologize", you should just say: "Here is a clarification, don't get me wrong!"
I have written extensively on what makes a "good" photo. One of the key components of a good photo is whether it meets the needs of the photographer or client. Sharpness, composition, exposure be damned (in most cases).
Lol. Nikon user here Video very much appreciated I saw the video being referred too and fully understood you Some people are just narrow minded and not worth the effort to convince
There's nothing you should apologize for! Keep posting honest content, and please keep your sense humour. People who can't comprehend that there may be opposing truths, they should grow up. Cheers from another UA-camgrapher
I have a client on retainer, and they absolutely gush over how expensive and robust the red dsmc2 camera I own looks. They cannot fathom how I operate it with how ‘complex’ it looks. It is heavy and cumbersome, and absolutely I can do this job with a hybrid DSLR. It would be so much easier!, however the perception from the client would be “oh! A DSLR, I own one of those, why pay thousands of dollars when I own that” Vs that’s a RED camera, they filmed The Hobbit on that sensor Equally, I’ve shot portraits for vogue Singapore with Godox 300ws lights, (and gfx with hasselbad glass), but the point is, they weren’t profoto, and they loved it!! I agree perception is reality.
When I made the jump form hobbyist to professional I stated that the camera I used for my portrait work didn't matter, only the results I got. Now, here I am, years later telling you, results matter, but your clients perception of you matters a great deal more. If they perceive that you are using substandard tools, the clients going to have feelings about that.
Another excellent presentation. By the way, someone once told me, in business, it's not how good you are - it's how good people THINK you are. In other words, another's perception of you is their reality. Finally, in the words of the American comedian Billy Crystal doing his imitation of Fernando Lamas, "It's better to look good than to feel good."
I'm from the United States, politics right now is in our face every day, all day. The press and people sometimes blast a politician when the change their views on something. I agree with you. Having different and conflicting ideas, or views, on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis, can be good. To me it means you are learning, open to ideas, ready to change with the market, people, and/or business. If I hired a wedding photographer and they arrived with a Kodak camera I would be stunned, OMG, who have I hired. People do judge by what you have and how you look. What you use can be very important.
I could have afforded a R5 MKII but wanted something that took a good photo, so now I own TWO 5D MKII 's!! $600. I wanted to future proof my first body, so I bought a backup. Then I had my pro photographer friend shoot with it and I was totally impressed with the photos he took. He did that on purpose to prove to me: 1) it's not the camera 2) those bodies take amazing photos, and I believe it now!
Nice video, but totally unrelated question: using godox lights, which modifiers are the "best quality" you can get? I noticed that you don't recommend godox modifiers due to quality, but from what I can tell, it's not readily possible to adapt broncolor onto bowens mount?
I have to agree the camera depends on "what you shoot". A whole new area of photography opened up when I updated from Nikon D850 to Z9 ... lifestyle fashion. Editorial fashion and beauty can be done with an older Canon or Nikon DSLR, but when it comes to movement, the newer tech helps a lot.
Be true to you, in ALL ways. Those who over react to sarcasm as an educational tool are missing the bigger picture. Please don't let "them" spoil it for the rest of us! LOL Great segment!
I totally agree and often write/advise the same. Gear is not the point of the spear, the user is. I use five year old second hand M43 EM1x cameras I pick up for about 1k Australian for sport and can match other pro sport togs I sit next to. The big difference is, my 600 f4 costs about $2500 Australian (300 f4). The other full frame shooting tog dropped $20k. In all but the most atrocious of light we produce the images needed for any possible use (even bill boards- I have proof), the very, very few times they pull ahead (above ISO 6400), I only loose a small percentage and the reality is the client does not know the difference and software usually evens out the field..
very nice point of view and nothing to apologize. the best camera is that you have and get the biggest return of invest!!! also, Scott, there are many photographers that don't have financial education and they go for the big $$$$ kit and cry that I don't have work.. i can't pay my bills, etc. Also, there are the photographers who if they don't have the last camera think they can't shoot, it's something psychological that the big brands invest in marketing making you think you NEED that new camera.
They are two view about two different things. 1) client view/expectations. 2) what gear it takes to do a job. Seldom are the two exactly the same. No need to apologize.
The aperture comment is why cinematographers, or movie industry and lens design manufacturers, went with the T- stop. It's a measure of the light transmission, not a measure of the hole size.
i bring a phase one on a product shoot with like 3 / 4 lights and the client will pay atleast twice as more than he would have if i have came with a AC7R and 2 lights , for their use case it will be same out put but if i get paid more to do the same thing ? i will do it
Not much changes. 55 years ago I started my career with the "5D mark II" of the day because that's what I could afford. Until it broke down on a job and I convinced myself (and my bank manager) that I could not afford NOT having a Hasselblad kit, so I got one. It brought me immense kudos - AND a single body with three lenses (later five) lasted me the rest of my career. No backup kit, no repairs, no servicing, it just kept going. Now, as I understand it, THAT has changed and everybody seem to obsess about backup kit. But back to changing one's views and liking different things - if you don't do that, you're stuck in a rut and will get left behind very quickly. That was true 50 years ago, and it is still true. And so are your coments on lens shades and straps (which is why the old Hasselblad straps clipped off and on in ½ second).
Scott, you do not need to apoligise for anything mate. The internet is full of people who will say some things just to annoy you regardless. Probably why I do not use youtube to promote myself. Sure I have a lot of videos on my channel, but someone will ALWAYS say that they could do better or whatever. Thats life, be happy in what you do, keep learning, and embrace change. Ive shot commercials on my Iphone, but I wouldn't tell agencies about it. Ive also shot on a panavision at 1200 fps, only to have the agency say, we wont use that shot now, that's life. Do your job, get paid, and be creative as you like in the bedroom... ENJOY!!!
I didn't know Profoto is considered more professional than Godox - at school we all love using the Godox lights. The Profoto strobes are harder to use, less reliable and clunky. They're probably older though, and we have only one or two transmitters per half studio, and the slaving often doesn't work right.
Perfect! My perfect camera os an EOS R - but I shoot virtual tours. I need the best blend of dynamic range, resolution and functionality to shoot 4 frames around, with 3 to 7 brackets on a fisheye lens (Canon 8-15 set at just a cinch above 12mm) to make the best pinchable and zoomable images that can be seen on Google Business Profile listings either on phones or desktops. Google has a hard limit of 14k images. At 30MP per 1/4 the EOS R does that spot on.. Now, is that the same kit I use for events? No. Is it the same thing I use for creating a stock of images for a client to buy from? No again. Big exclamation on your "For Me".
You are of course correct that two opposing views can contain their own truths. How you reconcile or deal with the apparent contradictions are simply a mark of how intelligent you are. I don't think you've got anything to worry about, mate.
it's hilarious that people will run to the comments, in furious outrage, due to an opinion shared on a channel they actively choose to watch. @blubravery said it already. no apology needed. for the adults in the room, we understand your experience is yours, and that is what i come here for. i've learned a lot from the perspectives you give, even though my practice is something, i am still actively figuring out, and won't look anything like chosen subjects and approach. the tone and viewpoint is something i greatly appreciate and is the primary reason i continue to watch. so please. continue to piss people off, if only for me.
Yesterday, for a grandchild shoot, I used a Canon 5d 1 and a nifty fifty. I cannot see how I would have got better photos with my 5D iii (because it would have been the same photographer behind it)..
I'm shooting architecture mostly and camera strap is such an inconvenience to use on tripod, i've searched couple of them and hate all. Best one was a DOMKE gripper, the smaller one, but still annoying.
Do you have any advice about how one might be able to ‘look’ more professional on a budget? Say if you have to work with Godox lights and a cheaper camera, what could you do to still impress a client and appear as a professional?
Dress well. Have good camera and equipment cases ( you can buy used, actually looks like you do lots of location work). Have the interiors very orderly and clean so you are never looking confused, digging around. If you can , have an assistant ( even if a student) who quietly backs you up- that takes a bit of training in advance, of course. I’m a commercial freelance photostylist, studio and locations. I observe it all. If it’s a location, scope it out in advance.
And for those aspiring commercial shooters on a budget….just wear a “I Shoot RAW” T shirt from Fro KnowsPhoto, and rent the gear. But don’t use it. 😂. ps: over my own 44yr in the trenches, it’s been my experience that about half of all the art directors, CDs, were very keen or knowledgeable about photography, some brands, etc. And today…EVERYONE is a photographer.😂
I will agree that there is no need to apologise, everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. The one thing I will challenge you on is that all "Pro" photographers are studio photographers. There are such beasts as landscape and wildlife photographers where they may never meet a client and the only thing that matters are the resultant photographs. Admitted some clients might be more impressed by the equipment in studio situations but I'm afraid that's your cross to bear for choosing that branch of photography. Just don't go around thinking (and bragging) that "Studio Photographers" are the only true photographers. FYI I'm British too and understand sarcasm.
What? These aren't even conflicting. Yes you need expensive kit to look pro, but you don't need to look pro in order to be pro. You just have to convince your clients
It’s a poorly maintained Gulfstream V flown by a sharp looking student pilot…vs…beat up well maintained DC3 flown by a grizzled old 20,000 hour naval aviator. One definitely looks better. One definitely is better. No conflict.
You're absolutely right in both videos (Yes, I watched them). If we're shooting a wedding, the bride & groom wouldn't know a Broncolor or Godox light if it bit them in the a$$. I left a Profoto speedlight at a bride's house after a shoot and she contacted me to let me know I'd forgotten a lens at her place. On a commercial shoot, however, things are completely different. The clients know the difference. The creative directors know the difference. The art directors and buyers know the difference. Is it shallow or elitist to insist on Broncolor or Profoto? Maybe, but at the end of the day, the commercial client is paying the bills. I still have my Godox lights, but have switched to Profoto for performance and workflow superiority. p.s Love all your content. Much respect from Canada. Cheers, :)
Poor Dave for not getting it right... joking aside I have been watching your videos for a while but seldom comment. I was particularly interested in one of your other videos about the relationship between success in the business and where one lives. I see and hear many marketing gurus suggesting I can 'make it' anywhere. Well, yes you can but the odds would be far, far greater if you were in London, Manchester, or New York and not Norwich. I digress...Great vids keep up the good work
Having seen both videos you just seem to be demonstrating, as always, intelligence and experience. Emotional intelligence first of all. Nothing to apologize about
Bought a 5DSR based on your videos. Why do you keep plugging the 5Dmkii? 😂 kidding aside, I shot a restaurant campaign with a phaseone and it sure made me feel more pro 😅. That shutter sound was so satisfying … hence me going and getting the 5DSR. My EOS R6 mk ii just doesn’t sound the same.
Imo, angry people are much ado about nothing. But they’re good for engagement & the mighty algo. Rory Sutherland explains how irrational & subjective our behavioural psychology is. So it makes sense to me that a client on set wants their money’s worth. The quirks & mysticism of a photographer. The experience on set. All part of the value prop.
The hidden side of your humour, it is like I was once asked what the criket score was, had no idea who was playing so I said "America is 0 for 100". If I want to tease you I will with a dead pan expression.
Those are not opposing views, one is you can take professional photos with any camera and kit. The other is, you will look professional when you use certain gear. Two different views
I don't see how saying "Camera X is good enough and will get the job done." and "Camera Y will make you look more professional." could be construde as opposing views. Anyone who thinks that should be ignored!🤔
back then I was thinking about buying a 5dmkii to start taking portraits but I go for the 6d instead since I dont wanna deal with Cfast cards, that is just better for my situation man...I think theres only just a small number of people that is actually complain but those are the loudest since they are the ones posting while we are out there shooting photos
Would you look more pro if you rented the fancy gear? Like I've said in my video, not one client has ever asked me about my equipment on set. BUT, I have no idea if they ever talked behind my back about my gear. Hmmmm.
Interesting that within above the line advertising, that feeds on people's insecurities with branding, then has its own art directors ''feeling'' safer in the hands of photographers with premium branded cameras
The truth is the real answer to all this is nuanced and context-dependent. You shoot food. My wife and I shoot (moving) people on location (models). A 5D MKII, while more than fine at the sensor/file level, tended to have less easy to use focusing in a high speed chaotic situation like that. That meant more missed shots, which directly affected client satisfaction. This would have no effect on food which does not move (or architecture, or many other types of work). Since we are on location, sometimes buildings in the background or whatever would end up a little under or over as the sun moved. Again, more latitude with our new MK IV vs the MK II means being able to keep shooting faster (models are expensive) and less missed shots as it can all be saved in Lightroom/Photoshop. You on the other hand can control the lighting of all pixels seen in the frame in your set-ups. Not to mention, being on locations that are often open or semi-open to the public, handing an iPad to clients and having the shots beamed to it GREATLY enhances client satisfaction (you can tether in your studio we cannot on a sidewalk). Lastly yes, we get paid for our work, and quite well. But we would not be paid more for a higher grade of camera than a MK IV or similar, at least not enough more to not lose money on the rental of the external gear. If we were doing huge national campaigns like you do that might be different math, or at least different expectations. And I've tried a Phase 01. It's a little slow for shooting models compared to a 5D MK IV (albeit, an MK II is even slower, so that was previously another real issue before we upgraded). FPS is very important when trying to catch that perfect moment of something like a model running down a street or flipping her hair or whatever. Not to mention the camera you have used 100 times you are likely to be a lot faster with and know the true limitations of than something you fiddled with the night before when you got back from the rental shop. On location, balancing strobes with natural light, running from one set-up to another, on a really tight time clock, working with models who rarely can be depended on to hit a specific mark... It's another world from what you do. Each discipline and client level is different.
Ha! As a Motorsport photographer carying around a big 600mm all day, my thick camera strap is an essentialpiece of kit...guess you would look a bit of a dork rocking a monopod in the studio? Otherwise...awesome video as usual.
this so true I got all my sony gear half price off a property photographer as his employers only wanted images off a nikon or canon camera because they are professional , they were italian
I kind of figured that video was largely satire, I thought to myself, "ehhh, yeah I don't think he's serious, I won't bother commenting," 😂. On a more serious note, something to consider about satire these days: we live in an era where Poe's Law is fully in force and we've unfortunately been conditioned over the last decade or so to question whether or not someone's BS outrageous stand on something is in fact sincere or not. This is especially true here in the US where things are particularly batsh*tecrazy. For satire to hit correctly these days it does have to be more skillfully executed than ever before, which is a deeply unfortunate thing, but it is sadly indicative of the nutty times in which we live.
Going forward I will make fact and opinion much clearer to avoid such confusion. If you want to learn more about photography, head here tinhouse-studio.com/
I wouldn’t worry about it. Some folks are a little too uptight and take themselves way to seriously.
Hi Scott, trouble is, you’re operating at such a level, your insights are multivariable yet the platform has trained the users to look for, as you say, absolutes, devoid of nuance or conditional recommendations. Love your content.
I’m sure the Brits, Aussies, Kiwis, and Scandinavians all appreciated the dry satire. We have the same comedy language. Don’t change, but also this was great fodder for engagement driven content.
Well, some people have no sense of humor.😈 I wish you had posted this earlier I sold all my Nikon gear, NOT. I like your advice most times it coincides with my experience, yes I am old. I started in 1983. I think they missed the point it was being professional and building confidence in the client. BTW ,I still use black leather neck straps.😎
It’s really quite siimple: I have facts and you have opinions. 😹
Nothing to apologize, you are correct. My mentor even told me a story of how he had to bring 7 lights for a job that could be done with 3 because the client started questioning why he wasn't using so many lights. So he turned the others on real low so not to affect exposure and took the same image and the client was wowed. Looking pro is a legitimate thing. That's why you rent.
Rory Sutherland is an endlessly amusing and insightful resource on this issue.
Your candor and leadership is well regarded and welcomed.
I worked in TV as a location sound guy for most of my career, for the corporate gigs I'd always bring along 2-3 pelicans full of kit on a hand trolly. The thing was everything I needed I could carry, It was for perception and it worked.
@@blubravery one of the NY photographers I worked for said he would tell me the secret of photography. He leaned in and whispered so the art director couldn’t hear him - “it’s easy.”
@@naturesoundsnz hey, nice to see you're also a fan of Tin House Studio! I've been watching him for years
"The test of a first-rate intelligence is the ability to hold two opposed ideas in mind at the same time and still retain the ability to function." - F. Scott Fitzgerald
@@monsieurgolem3392 en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Schizophrenia Not really.
That's exactly the quote that came to my mind, too. Very apt.
Nothing to apologize about.
This is in all truth one of the realest channels on YT for photographers who want some real, honest (sometimes painful) advice about the industry. Some people can't handle it but I personally think that you are dead on with the information and opinions you share here.
could not have put it better myself.
I've shot weddings with a D850 and Z8. I've also shot weddings/events with a Z8 and a D3s. Why D3s? Because with the 135mm f/2 dc, that thing is money for portraits. I wouldn't hesitate to use a 5d MkII or a D3s today in 2024 for professional work. Period. People like a little video too... so a Z8 or an R5ii is great for that. I've never had a customer say "oh god?!?! That Old camera is only 12 megapixels????" They love the photos. The photos are beautiful. GaS is a real thing, don't let it consume you. You're not going to be able to tell the difference from my Z8 or D3s when it's printed out in your photobook. Seriously. Take great pictures, make clients happy, get paid.
I actually think you can tell the difference between bodies, but often the "outdated" cheap bodies that the good photos.
@boredboiseboy I personally definitely can tell the difference when I'm editing the photos. They (the client) cannot. You would be really surprised, these younger kids really like that vintage feel to their photos. The D3s with a piece of tape on the logo looks exactly the same as a D5 or D6...clients get really intimidated sometimes because of the big camera. I recently started shooting very sparingly with a Nikon Zf.. It's a big difference in client reaction and attitude. One person in particular comes to mind. That photoshoot paid for the camera so 👌 .. you gotta gauge it out when you are doing the interview with the clients. My d850 and d3s are interchangeable at this point.
You'll have to rip the camera strap from my cold dead body.
Context is everything. Many people assume everything is about them.
Especially now days. Feels like people are far more self centered than say 5 years ago.
@@kevinsolie2208 I enjoy when a new camera comes out or should I say a new camera spec sheet comes out and the masses begin trashing it immediately. The reason usually boils down to the mean men at the camera company didn’t make the exact camera they wanted. Another problem is they didn’t get a camera with the features of that company $6000. camera in a $1500. Body.
Perception can be a huge part of credibility. My camera gear is somewhat old and unsophisticated by today's standards, but to the unknowing eye it looks impressive. Because of that, people also assume I know what I’m doing, which isn’t always the case.
Exactly, i see too many uneducated people think an old DSLR is more professional than a modern compact mirrorless simply because it's size
What’s that old gangster saying “trust will get you killed, loved will get your heart broken, and HONESTY will get you hated”. I love your brutal honesty because it’s accurate. I don’t consider your honesty to be satire. No apologies needed! Listen folks, clients gravitate to you because of your work and style, not because the camera you use. That initial lunch meeting where the potential client says “I love this photograph in your portfolio” you say that one I shot with a 5d mark II and this one was with a Phaseone or whatever. Read your client. If you hear them hung up on some camera or gear that you don’t own, just rent that gear the client is hung up on and include that in your proposal…simple. Funny how things work out, when clients see my portfolio they keep pointing to photos taken with my old Nikon d200 or 5d II even though they won’t let me use these cameras for their project. Lesson, these old cameras may be technically or perceptively obsolete, but they’ll get you lot’s of work if you’re a good photographer. Btw, the 5d II with 24-70L glass was the standard for most fashion campaigns back in the day, so that camera is no toy.
I used to work as an art director and commissioned photography, looking pro and being a nice person were definitely things that swayed my opinion when picking a photographer, that was back in the day when everything was shot on transparency though
'...apart from Dave' - 😆 Really enjoyed this video.
This might well be your best video yet, and it’s swimming in a pretty well stocked pond let’s be honest. Personally, I’d like to thank you for your advice on never shooting with the lens hood in park if you want to look pro. I immediately passed this gem of intel on to my business partner and now he finally looks like he knows what he’s doing. Thank you Scott, keep ‘em coming.
And dont use alens hood with wider angles.
Lens hood on backwards all day long!!
@@garybrindle6715 Oh I don't know, judging by the paint chips on my 28mm street camera lens hood, I'd much rather the damage was to the hood than the lens itself.
Shot a 3-photo project recently on 3 different setups (logistics reasons) - £2k, £5k & £9k setup. Sent it all to a major photography competition. The £2k setup photo won it.
I chuckled at your satirical video... People who "want absolutes" haven't leveled up to where they understand that "it depends" is a valid answer. Well done sir. Keep doing you.
You know what you’re doing and you are living proof of it!
I would always listen to a successful person more than a ‘so-called expert’.
A dialectic is when two things that are opposite are both true at the same time. This concept is hard for some but realizing this is true opens up a new way of thinking.
Perception of reality, and reality are not always the same thing. Escher had it nailed.
The two views are not opposing. They are different. One is about quality. One is about appearance.
"Please don't use camera straps (in studio)"... feel that should be a t-shirt...
@@monsieurgolem3392lol I will say, they get in the way of tethers and are very annoying.
Nice! So true. All of it. I've been shooting professionally for 30+ years..mostly events. And even worked in some big labs in NYC (when labs existed). It's fun and informative to hear your videos, and I especially love your "emotionally intelligent" attitude! It's fresh air.
Love these videos! A lot of sound advice imparted!
Justification for high-end gear was explained clearly by you in previous videos:- Canon, Bronica, Profoto, Mamiya & Hasselblad are fully supported by Rental businesses for on-site shooting, when extra or replacement kit is needed!
You have never said (as far as I am aware) that ‘x’ gear is shite/useless, you always state that ‘other’ kit may not be available when you most need it from Rental businesses. So, although Godox make great kit, this kit is not accessible through rental-channels.
You are so right in all you've said! 👏👏👏
I only have to disagree with you in one minor/accessory point. You should not "apologize", you should just say: "Here is a clarification, don't get me wrong!"
I have written extensively on what makes a "good" photo. One of the key components of a good photo is whether it meets the needs of the photographer or client. Sharpness, composition, exposure be damned (in most cases).
Sitting here stroking a rented Phase One on my lap like a Bond Villain with a cat.
🤣🤣😎😎Humour is missing from so many photography YT vids
Lol. Nikon user here
Video very much appreciated
I saw the video being referred too and fully understood you
Some people are just narrow minded and not worth the effort to convince
There's nothing you should apologize for! Keep posting honest content, and please keep your sense humour. People who can't comprehend that there may be opposing truths, they should grow up. Cheers from another UA-camgrapher
Seems like you understand the UA-cam business very well: Making people upset is a great way to get the to watch your videos.
I have a client on retainer, and they absolutely gush over how expensive and robust the red dsmc2 camera I own looks.
They cannot fathom how I operate it with how ‘complex’ it looks. It is heavy and cumbersome, and absolutely I can do this job with a hybrid DSLR. It would be so much easier!, however the perception from the client would be “oh! A DSLR, I own one of those, why pay thousands of dollars when I own that” Vs that’s a RED camera, they filmed The Hobbit on that sensor
Equally, I’ve shot portraits for vogue Singapore with Godox 300ws lights, (and gfx with hasselbad glass), but the point is, they weren’t profoto, and they loved it!!
I agree perception is reality.
When I made the jump form hobbyist to professional I stated that the camera I used for my portrait work didn't matter, only the results I got. Now, here I am, years later telling you, results matter, but your clients perception of you matters a great deal more. If they perceive that you are using substandard tools, the clients going to have feelings about that.
Another excellent presentation. By the way, someone once told me, in business, it's not how good you are - it's how good people THINK you are. In other words, another's perception of you is their reality. Finally, in the words of the American comedian Billy Crystal doing his imitation of Fernando Lamas, "It's better to look good than to feel good."
I'm from the United States, politics right now is in our face every day, all day. The press and people sometimes blast a politician when the change their views on something. I agree with you. Having different and conflicting ideas, or views, on a weekly, monthly, or annual basis, can be good. To me it means you are learning, open to ideas, ready to change with the market, people, and/or business. If I hired a wedding photographer and they arrived with a Kodak camera I would be stunned, OMG, who have I hired. People do judge by what you have and how you look. What you use can be very important.
I could have afforded a R5 MKII but wanted something that took a good photo, so now I own TWO 5D MKII 's!! $600. I wanted to future proof my first body, so I bought a backup.
Then I had my pro photographer friend shoot with it and I was totally impressed with the photos he took. He did that on purpose to prove to me: 1) it's not the camera 2) those bodies take amazing photos, and I believe it now!
No apology video needed!
Nice video, but totally unrelated question: using godox lights, which modifiers are the "best quality" you can get? I noticed that you don't recommend godox modifiers due to quality, but from what I can tell, it's not readily possible to adapt broncolor onto bowens mount?
"My views change based on my mood". THIS IS SOOOO TRUEEE
I have to agree the camera depends on "what you shoot". A whole new area of photography opened up when I updated from Nikon D850 to Z9 ... lifestyle fashion. Editorial fashion and beauty can be done with an older Canon or Nikon DSLR, but when it comes to movement, the newer tech helps a lot.
I watch you for your honesty, and will continue to do so.
Be true to you, in ALL ways. Those who over react to sarcasm as an educational tool are missing the bigger picture. Please don't let "them" spoil it for the rest of us! LOL Great segment!
Loved the bit about camera straps...cheers!
Great video, I'm not sure why you are apologising you're right about what you are saying.
I totally agree and often write/advise the same. Gear is not the point of the spear, the user is. I use five year old second hand M43 EM1x cameras I pick up for about 1k Australian for sport and can match other pro sport togs I sit next to. The big difference is, my 600 f4 costs about $2500 Australian (300 f4). The other full frame shooting tog dropped $20k. In all but the most atrocious of light we produce the images needed for any possible use (even bill boards- I have proof), the very, very few times they pull ahead (above ISO 6400), I only loose a small percentage and the reality is the client does not know the difference and software usually evens out the field..
very nice point of view and nothing to apologize. the best camera is that you have and get the biggest return of invest!!! also, Scott, there are many photographers that don't have financial education and they go for the big $$$$ kit and cry that I don't have work.. i can't pay my bills, etc. Also, there are the photographers who if they don't have the last camera think they can't shoot, it's something psychological that the big brands invest in marketing making you think you NEED that new camera.
They are two view about two different things. 1) client view/expectations. 2) what gear it takes to do a job. Seldom are the two exactly the same. No need to apologize.
The aperture comment is why cinematographers, or movie industry and lens design manufacturers, went with the T- stop. It's a measure of the light transmission, not a measure of the hole size.
Valid points that only the permanently petulent would find it hard to reconcile.
I picked up on your satire in that video and I thoroughly enjoyed it. I also enjoy dry British humor even though I'm an American.
i bring a phase one on a product shoot with like 3 / 4 lights and the client will pay atleast twice as more than he would have if i have came with a AC7R and 2 lights , for their use case it will be same out put but if i get paid more to do the same thing ? i will do it
Not much changes. 55 years ago I started my career with the "5D mark II" of the day because that's what I could afford. Until it broke down on a job and I convinced myself (and my bank manager) that I could not afford NOT having a Hasselblad kit, so I got one. It brought me immense kudos - AND a single body with three lenses (later five) lasted me the rest of my career. No backup kit, no repairs, no servicing, it just kept going. Now, as I understand it, THAT has changed and everybody seem to obsess about backup kit.
But back to changing one's views and liking different things - if you don't do that, you're stuck in a rut and will get left behind very quickly. That was true 50 years ago, and it is still true. And so are your coments on lens shades and straps (which is why the old Hasselblad straps clipped off and on in ½ second).
I was told once by very experienced Photographer "The best camera is the one you have".
Scott, you do not need to apoligise for anything mate. The internet is full of people who will say some things just to annoy you regardless. Probably why I do not use youtube to promote myself. Sure I have a lot of videos on my channel, but someone will ALWAYS say that they could do better or whatever. Thats life, be happy in what you do, keep learning, and embrace change. Ive shot commercials on my Iphone, but I wouldn't tell agencies about it. Ive also shot on a panavision at 1200 fps, only to have the agency say, we wont use that shot now, that's life. Do your job, get paid, and be creative as you like in the bedroom... ENJOY!!!
Never apologize.
I didn't know Profoto is considered more professional than Godox - at school we all love using the Godox lights. The Profoto strobes are harder to use, less reliable and clunky. They're probably older though, and we have only one or two transmitters per half studio, and the slaving often doesn't work right.
Love this video! We grow, we change, we feel!
What’s a camera strap?
Perfect! My perfect camera os an EOS R - but I shoot virtual tours. I need the best blend of dynamic range, resolution and functionality to shoot 4 frames around, with 3 to 7 brackets on a fisheye lens (Canon 8-15 set at just a cinch above 12mm) to make the best pinchable and zoomable images that can be seen on Google Business Profile listings either on phones or desktops. Google has a hard limit of 14k images. At 30MP per 1/4 the EOS R does that spot on..
Now, is that the same kit I use for events? No. Is it the same thing I use for creating a stock of images for a client to buy from? No again.
Big exclamation on your "For Me".
You are of course correct that two opposing views can contain their own truths. How you reconcile or deal with the apparent contradictions are simply a mark of how intelligent you are. I don't think you've got anything to worry about, mate.
it's hilarious that people will run to the comments, in furious outrage, due to an opinion shared on a channel they actively choose to watch.
@blubravery said it already. no apology needed. for the adults in the room, we understand your experience is yours, and that is what i come here for. i've learned a lot from the perspectives you give, even though my practice is something, i am still actively figuring out, and won't look anything like chosen subjects and approach. the tone and viewpoint is something i greatly appreciate and is the primary reason i continue to watch.
so please. continue to piss people off, if only for me.
Now I'm curious! What were your favorite UA-cam photography channels back in the day?
That start of a smile as you signed off and leant forward ... ...
Another great video and an excellent closing!
Yesterday, for a grandchild shoot, I used a Canon 5d 1 and a nifty fifty. I cannot see how I would have got better photos with my 5D iii (because it would have been the same photographer behind it)..
It’s true. But also depends on how much the client is willing to pay.
You are going to disrupt the used price of the 5d mark ii demand will skyrocket and the prices will go up!
I'm shooting architecture mostly and camera strap is such an inconvenience to use on tripod, i've searched couple of them and hate all. Best one was a DOMKE gripper, the smaller one, but still annoying.
No apology needed for me. Keep on keeping on.
There are things you can measure that don't matter and there are things that matter that you can't measure.
Big hug Scott! I appreciate, enjoy and love your videos!
All the very best from Brussels
Do you have any advice about how one might be able to ‘look’ more professional on a budget?
Say if you have to work with Godox lights and a cheaper camera, what could you do to still impress a client and appear as a professional?
Dress well. Have good camera and equipment cases ( you can buy used, actually looks like you do lots of location work). Have the interiors very orderly and clean so you are never looking confused, digging around. If you can , have an assistant ( even if a student) who quietly backs you up- that takes a bit of training in advance, of course.
I’m a commercial freelance photostylist, studio and locations. I observe it all.
If it’s a location, scope it out in advance.
Do not change anything! I do not need explicit warnings to understand if what you are saying is fact or opinion.
And for those aspiring commercial shooters on a budget….just wear a “I Shoot RAW” T shirt from Fro KnowsPhoto, and rent the gear. But don’t use it. 😂.
ps: over my own 44yr in the trenches, it’s been my experience that about half of all the art directors, CDs, were very keen or knowledgeable about photography, some brands, etc. And today…EVERYONE is a photographer.😂
I will agree that there is no need to apologise, everyone is entitled to his/her opinion. The one thing I will challenge you on is that all "Pro" photographers are studio photographers. There are such beasts as landscape and wildlife photographers where they may never meet a client and the only thing that matters are the resultant photographs. Admitted some clients might be more impressed by the equipment in studio situations but I'm afraid that's your cross to bear for choosing that branch of photography. Just don't go around thinking (and bragging) that "Studio Photographers" are the only true photographers. FYI I'm British too and understand sarcasm.
I don't comment very often, but I have to say I love your channel!
What? These aren't even conflicting. Yes you need expensive kit to look pro, but you don't need to look pro in order to be pro. You just have to convince your clients
It’s a poorly maintained Gulfstream V flown by a sharp looking student pilot…vs…beat up well maintained DC3 flown by a grizzled old 20,000 hour naval aviator. One definitely looks better. One definitely is better. No conflict.
You're absolutely right in both videos (Yes, I watched them). If we're shooting a wedding, the bride & groom wouldn't know a Broncolor or Godox light if it bit them in the a$$. I left a Profoto speedlight at a bride's house after a shoot and she contacted me to let me know I'd forgotten a lens at her place. On a commercial shoot, however, things are completely different. The clients know the difference. The creative directors know the difference. The art directors and buyers know the difference. Is it shallow or elitist to insist on Broncolor or Profoto? Maybe, but at the end of the day, the commercial client is paying the bills. I still have my Godox lights, but have switched to Profoto for performance and workflow superiority. p.s Love all your content. Much respect from Canada. Cheers, :)
'but have switched to Profoto for performance and workflow superiority.' That is it in a nutshell.
Poor Dave for not getting it right... joking aside I have been watching your videos for a while but seldom comment. I was particularly interested in one of your other videos about the relationship between success in the business and where one lives. I see and hear many marketing gurus suggesting I can 'make it' anywhere. Well, yes you can but the odds would be far, far greater if you were in London, Manchester, or New York and not Norwich. I digress...Great vids keep up the good work
Soooo damn right, mate ! You are PERFECTLY right !
Having seen both videos you just seem to be demonstrating, as always, intelligence and experience. Emotional intelligence first of all. Nothing to apologize about
Bought a 5DSR based on your videos. Why do you keep plugging the 5Dmkii? 😂 kidding aside, I shot a restaurant campaign with a phaseone and it sure made me feel more pro 😅. That shutter sound was so satisfying … hence me going and getting the 5DSR. My EOS R6 mk ii just doesn’t sound the same.
Imo, angry people are much ado about nothing. But they’re good for engagement & the mighty algo.
Rory Sutherland explains how irrational & subjective our behavioural psychology is. So it makes sense to me that a client on set wants their money’s worth. The quirks & mysticism of a photographer. The experience on set. All part of the value prop.
Fully understood and enjoyed by this British person on the same side of the satirical/irony scale as yourself 😂
I recommend the Nikon d850. Shooting Canon is a handicap😉👍
No apology needed.
Stay true, I got the satire 😊
The hidden side of your humour, it is like I was once asked what the criket score was, had no idea who was playing so I said "America is 0 for 100". If I want to tease you I will with a dead pan expression.
Those are not opposing views, one is you can take professional photos with any camera and kit. The other is, you will look professional when you use certain gear. Two different views
I don't see how saying "Camera X is good enough and will get the job done." and "Camera Y will make you look more professional." could be construde as opposing views. Anyone who thinks that should be ignored!🤔
Saved me a comment 👍🏽
There are absolutes! And the answer is maybe 🙂 oh... And I shoot with a 15-year-old Canon rebel.
I take photos with an old 35mm camera. I do it for my own enjoyment and to my own specifications,
back then I was thinking about buying a 5dmkii to start taking portraits but I go for the 6d instead since I dont wanna deal with Cfast cards, that is just better for my situation
man...I think theres only just a small number of people that is actually complain but those are the loudest since they are the ones posting while we are out there shooting photos
Would you look more pro if you rented the fancy gear? Like I've said in my video, not one client has ever asked me about my equipment on set. BUT, I have no idea if they ever talked behind my back about my gear. Hmmmm.
Interesting that within above the line advertising, that feeds on people's insecurities with branding, then has its own art directors ''feeling'' safer in the hands of photographers with premium branded cameras
The truth is the real answer to all this is nuanced and context-dependent. You shoot food. My wife and I shoot (moving) people on location (models). A 5D MKII, while more than fine at the sensor/file level, tended to have less easy to use focusing in a high speed chaotic situation like that. That meant more missed shots, which directly affected client satisfaction. This would have no effect on food which does not move (or architecture, or many other types of work).
Since we are on location, sometimes buildings in the background or whatever would end up a little under or over as the sun moved. Again, more latitude with our new MK IV vs the MK II means being able to keep shooting faster (models are expensive) and less missed shots as it can all be saved in Lightroom/Photoshop. You on the other hand can control the lighting of all pixels seen in the frame in your set-ups. Not to mention, being on locations that are often open or semi-open to the public, handing an iPad to clients and having the shots beamed to it GREATLY enhances client satisfaction (you can tether in your studio we cannot on a sidewalk).
Lastly yes, we get paid for our work, and quite well. But we would not be paid more for a higher grade of camera than a MK IV or similar, at least not enough more to not lose money on the rental of the external gear. If we were doing huge national campaigns like you do that might be different math, or at least different expectations.
And I've tried a Phase 01. It's a little slow for shooting models compared to a 5D MK IV (albeit, an MK II is even slower, so that was previously another real issue before we upgraded). FPS is very important when trying to catch that perfect moment of something like a model running down a street or flipping her hair or whatever. Not to mention the camera you have used 100 times you are likely to be a lot faster with and know the true limitations of than something you fiddled with the night before when you got back from the rental shop.
On location, balancing strobes with natural light, running from one set-up to another, on a really tight time clock, working with models who rarely can be depended on to hit a specific mark... It's another world from what you do. Each discipline and client level is different.
Ha! As a Motorsport photographer carying around a big 600mm all day, my thick camera strap is an essentialpiece of kit...guess you would look a bit of a dork rocking a monopod in the studio?
Otherwise...awesome video as usual.
English man here. I totally got the satire...
Totally agree! Well-said.
this so true I got all my sony gear half price off a property photographer as his employers only wanted images off a nikon or canon camera because they are professional , they were italian
I kind of figured that video was largely satire, I thought to myself, "ehhh, yeah I don't think he's serious, I won't bother commenting," 😂.
On a more serious note, something to consider about satire these days: we live in an era where Poe's Law is fully in force and we've unfortunately been conditioned over the last decade or so to question whether or not someone's BS outrageous stand on something is in fact sincere or not. This is especially true here in the US where things are particularly batsh*tecrazy.
For satire to hit correctly these days it does have to be more skillfully executed than ever before, which is a deeply unfortunate thing, but it is sadly indicative of the nutty times in which we live.
Your are good, followed it with no problem. Great channel. please keep it going.
You aren’t lying