Did you prefer your old camera?
Вставка
- Опубліковано 25 лип 2024
- I'm sure we've all had times when a new piece of equipment has failed to live up to expectations. Looking back across our archives we then start discovering images that we really like and recall the cameras we used to use and ask ourselves if the new ones really are any better.
Video Recording
Panasonic G9 & 12-32 f/2.8 lens
Tascam DR05 and Rode Smart Lav
Etsy Shop
steveonionsphoto.etsy.com
Contact Details
Email: steveonions1@gmail.com Twitter: Steve_ONions / steve_onions Instagram: steveonions1 / steveonions1
Sometimes when life is kicking my ass, I’ll grab the OM1 I got forty plus years ago and just sit down and hold it. For me just handling that camera takes me back to a time when I was fearless and had my entire life in front of me. Most all cameras from the late 70’s take me back it time. And because my parents worked so hard to buy that Olympus for me, I’ll never let go of it. In fact I think I’ll go get it now. Should anyone need me I’ll be in 1980.
Can you save some space in 1980 for me too please ☺️
Same exact camera, and same exact feeling here too. It's sitting on the coffee table in front of me right now. I bought it back when I was in high school, with money saved from my very first part time job, and 2 months ago, I retired.
Oh dear... I remember the challenge I had selecting the film. Most of the time I chose the cheaper one, but still, each film had it's own mood so we planned the place, and the mood we felt. Saving for the film of my mood.
I feel similarly about the Pentax Spotmatic II given to me as a 21st birthday present 50 years ago. Renovated it and it works perfectly but I seldom use it because with diminished eyesight I don't like the view with stop down metering and so I use a Pentax MX for local street photography. I get it out every now and a gain to make sure the meter still powers up but that is it.
This is exactly what I do with my Leica M2 and M3 from time to time. I put them in front of me, wind the camera, release the shutter and marvel at that magical sound of the 60 year old mechanical shutter. It is a cause of amusement for my wife too. She thinks its hilarious.
The D700 is absolutely brilliant. I still carry mine and it feels and captures photos like no other camera.
I am not a Nikon fan but I worked with a D700 for a few years and I must concur, it is a lovely piece of equipment!
Getting rave reports on UA-cam recently
@@davidharris4062
Getting expensive again.
Steve, can I just say one of the things that makes the icing on the cake for me with your channel is that the intro is really short and you get straight into it! Well done! 👍🏻
Thanks for that, if anything I’m trying to make my intro’s even shorter as I don’t like waiting either! 😀
I went backwards, I started out on digital, shot for about 8-10 years, then went film. Love them both tbh, but my absolute favorite camera is my Rolleiflex 3.5E. Butter smooth focus, built like a bank vault, and never needs a battery (and I own a 2.8f as well!) it is the ultimate conversation starter, and the photos are so sharp. 12 shots, so you’re not just shooting to get to the end of a roll too. Every photographer should try a Rollei sometime in their lives.
Imagine if these days, camera manufacturers like Sony or Fuji had the same ethos of the Nikon of 70s and 80s. The F mount that is 70 years old and is still usable on even the latest of Nikon DSLRs, or the line up of their AI and AIS lenses with their 52mm filter thread, so that one set of contrast, or colour correction filters could be used on all lenses. Where is that integrity of design, engineering and business gone in today's throwaway culture of manufacturing? Rubbish built in China so that we have to buy more rubbish before the credit for the previous one is paid up.
@@lensman5762 That's why I have a Nikon D7100, as I can use vintage Nikkor lenses and independents going back to the 1970s. I picked up a Vivitar 100-200mm f4 and a Vivitar 135mm f2.8 close focusing, and both are solidly built and sharp.
Lovely camera Jonathan.
My Nikon F4 is my “Goldilocks” camera. The perfect balance of new and old.
My absolute favourite Nikon SLR. I have two of them. They are inspirational. When Nikon introduced them a lot of paparazzi turned their noses up. It was too much of a camera for them, but the F4 is the blueprint on which future Nikons and almost every other brand of SLR and DSLR is based on.
@@lensman5762 it definitely was a turning point for the world of SLRs. I couldn’t ask for more with mine. My Nikkor 28-105 stays glued to it and that setup handles whatever Dartmoor can chuck at me at this time of year
Hmmm, I really want one - especially as they work perfectly with manual focus Nikkors.
I have every 'F' series Nikon from the F, up to my F4E..plus Nikkormats, Nikomats, and I love all of them but the F4 is beautiful to use, as is my F3 with motor drive. and my FE with motordrive is another gorgeous camera to use.
@@catey62 quite the collection of Nikons you have! The F4 does feel beautiful to use and I get the feeling that it’s incapable of breaking (I’m sure they do though). When ever I go out with any other old electric cameras I always wander if it will be their last outing.
Excellent video, as always.
The build quality makes the difference between a toy and a tool.
You hit it on the head with the “feeling.” Not just with camera build but the files. Made a video called “Lifeless” after looking through my old 5DII images and using the older Fujifilms.
Are the 5DII images lifeless? Love your channel by the way.
@@arturocontreras6648 no. Sorry. Wasn’t clear. The 5D2 and older Fuji not lifeless!
Agree! Less pixels, larger pixels please sensor manufacturers!
My Fuji X-pro 2, is my newest (2016), after my Canon 5D "classic" (2007), and I still have every camera I ever bought. Including my first old Canon Ftb from 1971 that I bought new. Various Canon F1, T70, T90, Bronica ETRS and ETRSi, Fuji X-pro 1, X E1, and others.... Love them all, and as you correctly state build quality of the older film cameras were fantastic. My 1971 Ftb, and F1, is solid brass, with a lovely patina after 51 years. Newer sold a single camera, and inherited my fathers Voightländer Vitomatic ll, from 1958. I also use them all from time to time (mostly X-pro2, Ftb Voightländer and Bronicas), and loving it. Every camera for it's intended subject and situation.
I wish I’d never sold any of my cameras Lars but then again I’d need a bigger house to hold them all!
I am with you on this Lars. I still have ALL the cameras I have ever bought since I was 11 years old. I am now almost 74 and have about 68 cameras.
I still love the Canon EOS5D (mark 1)
Well said. Love my Nikon FM. No distracting features. Everything in its right place. Keeps going. Solid.
Agreed. I've stopped looking at new digital cameras for awhile now and much prefer the value from old film cameras or even older digi cameras like the x70.
This is so true!!! I sold off my newer camera and bought used "old" D700. Deem this is the beast, I love this thing. Best DSLR I have ever used!
Still rocking my Nikon D700 & Canon 5D Classic. Solid build quality & color rendition from both are film like. Of course it's subjective🙂
My absolute favourite camera is my recently purchased Pentax K1000. It’s in pretty good condition and everything just works as I expect it to work. The only reason it has batteries are for the inbuilt light meter, it has everything else mechanically operated. Love my K1000!
I have two of the same camera. On one, there is a small spring that runs the mirror. It is in need of replacement but that spring is no longer available. Though it is working now, before long, the spring will break.
Get a donor body Mark, often the best way to keep things going when spares run dry.
My favorite camera : Autocord and my Minolta CLE. I absolutely love them. It's all about the way they feel in my hand and also the image quality I get from those 2 cameras. I sold many other cameras because I wasn't pleased when I was using them. Great video as usual ! Genuine honest and enjoyable.
Thanks Thierry. I also have an Autocord but I’m yet to feel totally comfortable with the handling, largely down to the focus lever. I need to spend more time with it!
What you talk about and how you feel as a photographer about your camera's resonate with me. I get it. I said to my wife--listen to this guy he totally gets it. Thanks for your perspective and attitude and the love of film! It's been a way of life for us older guys. Thank you!!
Glad you found it useful Trevor.
So many good points, Steve. Thanks for creating this video.
I acquired the Nikon D700 last year and absolutely love the build quality of it. I prefer it over my Sony A6000 or some of my older Minolta film cameras.
I’ve been using an Argus C3 solely for the past 18 years and still loving it!
I have been so tempted to get one of those, there is something about the shape.
I'm so with you Steve on this one... Still rocking my original Olympus E-M1, E-P1, Nikon D700, FM2, Panasonic GX1 and love every minute of playing/working with them.
Your topic is bang on for me! I have digital, but I use my old original M4 as my daily carry..
Great video and good timing for me, I recently purchased a Nikon D700. I always enjoy your videos.
Thanks Suzanne - I’m certain you will love the D700.
@@SteveONionsit's the D3's little sister, and the D3 is the best SLR ever made. It aged like fine wine and the image quality is superb. Yes, something like a D850 ora mirrorless Z9 is better in terms of everything, but 15 years from now these cameras won't be as good compared to the rest as the D3 (and similarly the D700) is today. Superb tools
I have a collection of 35mm film SLR cameras, dating back to 1970 through 1985. Most of them are mostly metal, all manual 'old school' cameras. I like the solid, substantial feel of these old film cameras, as well as the immersive experience of making photographs with those precision tools. Not taking anything away from digital cameras..I also have a Fujifilm X100F digital camera it is a wonderful 'everyday carry/travel' camera for those times which I don't feel like carrying a bulkier film SLR with a bagful of lenses. But I truly enjoy my older film cameras..they sit in a display case some of them are reminders of many happy memories they all work and get used. Hard for me to pick a 'favorite'..closest is my Nikon FM circa 1980. Recorded my family growing up with that camera.
I agree Thomas, something intangible about using certain cameras that just make you want to get out and shoot.
I have a collection of 35mm SLR's going from 1966 to 1994 exactly. And most SLRs i am shooting, are besides that '66 one, almost all from the 70's to 80's - and i love them.
Totally in agreement thnx for voicing my thoughts
I just discovered your videos today, and immediately subscribed. I love your opinions, agreeing with most of them! I love cameras, especially older ones. I feel newer is not always better. I'll never use film again, but if I ever do I'll trot out my old OM-1. My first impression seeing the first of your videos that I've ever seen is that the photographer is far more important than the camera.
I am an old timer. I have had a camera in my hands since I was 12 years old , It was a Kodak instamatic 50. I find the new generation of cameras overladen with unnecessary and frivolous features as well as having rapid obsolescence built into them. I feel that despite profestations to otherwise, these cameras are not as ' focused ' on still photography as compared with digital cameras of ten or twelve years ago. Steve's D700 is one of gems in the Nikon DSLR crown. Recently I have seen some superb landscape photography done with the good old D700. I used to have a D200 and then a D300 which I gave to my daughter, and I still have my D800. Steve is right, there is something absolutely magical and inspiring about holding a proper Nikon. I do own Canon film and digital, and Olympus EM5 MKii and EM1 MKii, but nothing compares to the D800. If I had to be honest, my D200 and D300 had a slightly more solid feel to them, but compared to my Canon 5D MKii, the Nikons have a solid feel to them. Now I am not going to go on about, the older Nikon or Leica M cameras or the Hasselblads. Those are in a different league altogether.
Totally agree, I do not think we will such well made cameras below the £5 price point ever again.
@@SteveONions Some of the best photographs I have ever seen are by photographers such as Jospeh Karsh and Ansel Adams neither had the "amazing" features we are sold these days yet prodced sublime images
❤❤
@@tspinks Adams once said" The most important part of the camera is six inches behind it ".
I got my first camera when I was 10 (that was 61 years ago), from a family friend who saw my interest in photography and wanted to develop it. An old (even then) 4x5 Speed Graphic. And taught me to develop and print. Since then, I've made money with cameras in one way or another all my life. Owned many cameras from most brands. Shot Nikons until the 1980's, then switched to Canon because there were a few years when Nikon stopped innovating, resisting automation. Had most of the Leica film cameras. The M2 is still my favorite. I've spent probably thousands of hours in a darkroom. But, I was an early adopter of digital (late 90's), a very expensive endeavor. I have no nostalgia for film cameras. I never want to spend time in a darkroom again. Give me the latest Canon mirrorless cameras. They are superior in every way.
Fair point James, we are all different and in my day job (IT) I never miss anything from earlier generations of computers, the latest stuff is streets ahead.
I’m relatively new to photography ( just over three years now) and did buy D700 for $350 Australian with a 24-120 lens. I love it ind use it a lot. Great message in this video.
Excellent video Steve!!! So true!!!
Thanks Sammy.
Both my F4 and my FM2 always give me a really great feeling when I hold and use them.
As far as digital cameras, I've had the same D7000 since 2014 and though I've occasionally thought about upgrading, the fact is that it feels good in my hands, and I'm always very happy with the images I get from it.
Who could ask for more Randy? If something works for us we’d be foolish to change (something I’ve been guilty of many times).
Don't! D7000 has the best sounding shutter of all cameras I own. It's snappy, it's well built, it's just awesome. And it has features later removed from the newer D7xxx cameras.
I loved the D700 and somewhat regret upgrading to the D810. I can't put my finger on it but I just loved the D700. Too much gizmos and functions are just a distraction. I want a camera! Not a high pixel/toaster/film studio/audio/micro/Imaging device. I hate fiddling with settings for ages before taking a photo! I'm thinking of downgrading!?
Nothing wrong with going ‘backwards’ if it helps you go forwards Pelle 🙂
I got rid of my D800E and D750, because of the unique D700!
i own now 5 X D700s. They are all almost new (one of them brand new out of the box)
I am the admin of the Fb group"Nikon D700/The Legend"
Let's trade!
@@user-zv6qu4ks1p I did the same thing, sold my D750 and upgraded (yes, upgraded!) to D700. I feel like my photography has improved a lot since then! I just cant get enough of this camera! Going to buy second D700 body soon. And that awesome MB-D10 grip, with 8 AA cells it's 8fps monster. Now I have to join your FB group :)
Agree! Great commentary Steve.
Thanks Joseph.
Spot on! Getting back into film is the ultimate expression of what you are describing.
It is indeed Robert.
Some old equipment feel like tools, weapons. Feels like you're going to war when you go out for a shoot. Gives you a sense of purpose, a sense that you're doing something important, and makes you give your all. But others are as you mentioned, cheap, which in terms don't really empower you to give your all, and so you don't really.
My best work was shot on a Canon 6D, mk1. Solid thing. Closest competitor I've currently got is the Panasonic S5, feels as robust as that 6D. But, the most empowering of them all was for some odd reason a 1938 Graflex Speed Graphic 4x5" Press Camera I owned. Every single picture felt like I'm on a mission. Cocking the shutter took actual physical effort, as the faster the shutter speed the more I needed to tighten the springs. The thing was solid even though it was made of a cardboard composite and moroccan leather. But I always knew that the camera had lived many more generations than I have. It had been through the war, it had been through many many things and it surely won't give up on me when I'd want to take a photograph. I have sold that camera to a war museum, and I really want to call them up and buy it back. It's the camera I miss the most, as nothing can come close to that way of working. Compose a pic, slide a film holder in, pull the dark slide out and realise you haven't closed the shutter...
I understand how you feel Constantin. The feeling that a camera can withstand anything inspires great confidence and makes you want to get out and shoot. I’ve sold a few cameras that I really miss and do t want to make the same mistake again.
I am a relatively new photographer (I'd only be willing to share photos starting from around six years ago) and yet I've felt no urge to replace my used 5D MKII, the first digital camera I bought myself, which I still rely on for work and personal projects. I do regret selling my Nikon F2, but I have my first SLR, an Olympus OM-1n, that I still love and don't see myself replacing or selling, along with my Bessa R2. I also use adapters to swap around the Olympus and Nikon glass I kept (it's the best glass I own) on the 5D which has kept it feeling fresh. There's not really a camera I feel I truly "need" right now, unless I venture into more video work. My 5D is nearing, what? 14 Years old?
That’s a good use of older cameras Justin, no need to upgrade unless you are missing something essential. I used to have an R2 but did struggle to get in with it for some reason.
Just before Christmas I got the urge to try for a newer version of 5D MKii. After much research, I came to the conclusion that there was no point. The 5D was giving me everything I needed.
@@SteveONions You could try getting the R2 in the olive color, like me. I imagine it's all the difference. Vanity aside, I think I am smitten because I shot my first roll in Portugal and got back the sharpest images I'd ever taken without really trying. It now travels with me often. I also must admit I have the Olympus XA2 and Ricoh GR for pocket work. But I got all of that I would say at conscionable market prices a couple years ago when I had the bug, and settled in quite happy with what I have. Thanks for the compliment. Here's more R2 stuff from my one photography feature on one of my fav sites (and keep up the great work): casualphotophile.com/2020/02/14/fast-cars-on-slow-film-justin-westbrook-shoots-daytona/
@@lensman5762 I was tempted by the Fuji X100F for a couple of years but have since sold it, though it got a lot of travel for photos for my job. It was just one of those cameras that seemed like magic.. half the time, and the other half I just could not get a result I was happy with, and I couldn't predict it. I ultimately sold it (and never got rid of my 5DMkII luckily). I've only been tempted since by the full-frame mirrorless Sony stuff, but again, I could only justify it for more video work I just don't do at the moment. Here's to many more happy years with your Canon (and hopefully mine).
My shooting buddy and I are convinced that you are monitoring our phone conversations and/or emails. We've had this conversation numerous times. We still love and shoot our old cameras (both film and digital). As old stills shooters, we don't find the newer video centric or hybrid cameras particularly appealing compared to our older tried and true stills workhorses. The cameras we grab first and most are those that we just love to shoot. They just feel good, the controls are not overly complicated and placed right where you want them. They are reliable; they just work. Image quality? Maybe not the sterile, pristine, sharpness is everything quality of the latest digital cameras, but while these may be technologically near perfect, we don't find them artistically appealing. So thanks for this. Here's to the old, but tried and true.
I go with my gut feel too John and often pick something that has no real logic to it. Often times I just want to feel good when I’m out with a camera so take one that makes me happy.
My very fugal mother saved her money to buy me an Olympus OM-1 and OM-2 in 1972. I still take them out to look through the viewfinder and shoot a couple of frames for the feeling of the good old days and remembering my mother (2022 Happy Mother's Day in Heaven!). For me, these half-century old cameras are much too precious to be used every day. These good new days, I carry a Olympus Tough TG4 on my daily biking run and beach random walk. Thank you for creating your great video. I enjoy your great photos.
Thanks Gary, great to see the old cameras still getting some use. I did have a TG-5 briefly and it was a surprisingly well built camera.
i can't help but think your name is Steve Onions instead of O'Nions and I feel like i should apologise. I'm sorry Steve
No need to apologise, I got used to all the nicknames by the time I was 10 😀
YOU JUST MADE MY DAY!
I have been discussing with my wife repeatedly for years everything that you addressed in this video presentation. Newer cameras have played a major role in a diminishing desire for me to shoot for leisure since retirement as a professionally trained photographer. Build quality is a major factor.
There are many good and great photographers who can positively and rapidly take advantage of all the modern features of a DSLR, Point and Shoot, or a sophisticated travel camera of any format. Many of those photographers are self-trained or learned through trial and error. That is absolutely fine and they should be 100% respected for their talent and creativity. Results are often incredible and certainly very important.
For me, how a camera feels in my hands and where the fingers rest have always been the first and foremost criteria for me when choosing to buy one; and similar to you Mr. O'Nions, whether using a digital or film format, all I need is shutter speed, aperture, ISO (digital or film), and an appropriate lens to make shooting a satisfying experience. Throw in a filter now and then, and even manual focus is still when called for.
Menus have become a necessary evil just to do a basic setup in recent years. Shooting mode dials which so many people rely on started appearing on later film cameras before digital took over, and for my purposes were unnecessary.
A decades long understanding of how light and cameras work together might be why I feel this way. It is in no way intended as a criticism to the existence and usefulness of an instrument that countless enthusiasts and professionals use every day.
I’m also drawn to cameras that just feel right, image quality is largely the same across most models for all practical purposes but the operation of switches and dials varies tremendously.
It’s common in all consumer goods for the first generation to be better built albeit with quirks in the operation. As they fix the user experience they invariably trim costs as much as possible and the result is something far less tactile.
thank you for this!!!!
Good video, just discovered your channel. My favorite camera, that is almost always the one I use when going to shoot landscape, is a Canon 5D Mark II. I love everything about this camera, from the way it feels to the way the images from it's sensor look and it's by far the oldest of my 3 DSLRs. I also use an Olympus e-m5 mark I for my photo walks and when I want to travel light. Nice to see another fan of this camera.
My friend Robin also loved his 5D MkII Kevin, sometimes wonders why he sold it.
Very thought provoking video today, and very well stated. Totally agree and big reason I’m shooting film again with M42 Pentax and Zeiss lenses today with a Bessaflex built in early 2000’s. It’s not a tank like your Nikon’s, but has a superb bright view finder and is light weight which is important to me.
I think the key takeaway is there are lots of cameras out there with lots of different options at different price points for both film and digital. It’s a great time to be a photographer now.
Very true Dan, we are spoiled for choice which means everyone can find something to suit their needs.
Yeah, spot on ! For me the journey started when using the superb old Pentax Tacumars on my Fuji XTs. Now I'm shooting with an OM1 and a Pentax 645. With each step "backwards" the percentage of keepers from my shots raised drastically.
I know what you mean Andreas, I took far too many images with the digital cameras but get a considerably better hit rare with film (and more enjoyment in the process).
I bought my first Nikon F used in 1967. I am still using it, along with a couple of dozen more.
I also kept my Olympus OM-D E-M5 mk1 plus my equally old Nikon D7000, I like stuff that does not get in the way as well, simple but efficient and also fun/nice to use. Still have my fathers Yashica 12, had it repaired after 54 years of service, never letting that one go, grew up with that thing!
Great video Steve, as usual. Totally get where you are coming from. For me, photography is a journey and not a destination. Being able to enjoy the feel of the camera rather being obsessed about the image is part of what I like best. That's why I still use a lot of older cameras.
My newest of which is an Olympus E-m1 II and a Fujifilm X-H1. I still have my Olympus E-1 from 2006 and that is one quality brick!
Nice camera setup Steven, I remember how well received the E-1 was back then, they really threw everything into making it a hit.
Beautifully said.
I couldn’t agree more. I’ve bragged and raved on many a forum and subreddit how much I love my ‘ol Canonet GIII. It’s simple, it does it’s job, and produced some of my favorite shots thus far.
Glad it’s not just me Martin 😊
Great video! Completely understand your feelings toward the D700. Absolutely thinking to buy one back, indeed. Maybe even just for nostalgia. So much fun to use.
Nostalgia? Please check the reliable Imatest results. The D750/810/850 can't even match the D700 colour accuracy and hue discrimination.
I hear the same from a lot of people Hajo, Nikon put everything they knew into that camera and the colours are unmatched.
Thanks Steve, a very nice perspective on the joy of being connected with a fine quality tool that extends your artistic expression. You make me want to pull out my Nikon F4 or FE and put down my iPhone 11 Pro for a while.
Feel free to donate your F4 to me if you want it to get more use 😀
Oh wow! I still have my OM-D E-M5 Mark I. Got it on preorder right when it came out. It made me a photographer. Ignited my love for it. Same exact feeling whenever I pick it up.
I know exactly what you mean Joshua.
Yes!! I've been back out of late with my 18 year old Olympus E-300 and that beautiful Kodak Super CCD sensor; so film like. Love my D700 as well.
Love my old Nikon and Olympus film cameras.
Great video!
A lot of people like the old CCD sensors, very film like as you say 👍
I totally agree, i love my old X-E1 and the slightly elder a6000, I didn't reach its limits yet.
The man speaks the truth...love the quip about car menus - how true..!
Great video! The same can be said for hi-fi. I got rid of my old Luxman L-30 amplifier for a Naim Nait amplifier back in the day for “better” sound quality. But that Luxman oozed quality. Beautiful fascia, switches, knobs, cabinet etc. Took me many years to find another nice one. When one is less experienced you tend to be easily led astray by a “supposed” killer feature. With more experience… you tend to take pause to take a step back and look at a much bigger picture… 🥰
Good point Zahari, I used to gaze at newer cameras when they came out and believed I needed all those features. Now I realise they add nothing to my photography.
@@SteveONions Hi Steve! A side note. I too use micro four thirds. Some years ago I saw a video by a bloke named Terry that described the existence of an Olympus mft to OM lens adaptor. Prior to this and despite being quite into photography… the old Olympus OM system was something that I just never saw or was even aware about. But after doing some research I came to appreciate what absolute little jems the OM Zuiko lenses are. And so I tracked down the genuine adaptor and built up a little collection of the Zuiko lenses. Then it dawned on me… since I have the lenses… why not get a film body! And after research I decided the one to get was the Olympus OM 1-n. I love everything about this system except for one thing… the film advance just doesn’t have the “feel” that you would get using say a good Nikon. When I saw you winding the film advance on your Nikon… I have to admit there is a miniscule tinge of jealousy and also dissapointment in my OM. But as opposed to that… age and wisdom make you reflect upon what you actually DO have in front of you… And the OM system has some great benefits over the Nikon system. I do love the classic Nikons and Leicas… but I’ve learnt to be happy and content with what I have…🥰
I was out shooting HP5 in my Nikon FE2 this very afternoon. Felt good.
Well said Steve. My sentiments exactly.
I'm with you on this 100%. So said to see how photography has gone the way it went... We lost so much and no one even comment about it. Glad to see your video and know that there must be tons of guys out there with the same perspective.
Thank you, I’m glad I’m not alone 👍
Completely agree, you can’t beat that feeling of quality, and it does reflect in your shots.
Thanks Andy.
Brilliant! So well said and echoes my sentiments exactly. Best fun I had recently was with my Olympus trip 35 - solid and simple. I also have the Nikon Fe and love it. Only the Fuji digital cameras have inspired me to use digital as well as film. Best pictures are usually on my older digital cameras. Looking forward to more of your videos. 👍
Fuji do seem to be in touch with what most photographers are looking for 👍
Totally agree Steve. I thought it was an age thing. I often lament the passing of my Olympus and Nikon cameras fro the 70s and 80s (along with quite a few other quality items from decades ago).
You are so right. This does not apply only to cameras. Have you purchased any appliances or new automobile lately? We have become a throw away society. Wish my newer digital cameras were of the same quality as my old Minolta SRT101.
Very true. My repair man recently replaced my dishwasher - same brand, same spec - he also told me not to expect it to last half as long as the old one 🙁
I own two digital cameras, Olympus EM10 MkII (a solid little brick of a camera) and the EM1 MkII which also has that solid feel with a great grip. It would probably be heavier but for the use of magnesium which I can tell you I appreciate.
As for film, my Mamiya C3 just has everything. I adore this camera.
Great video Steve, always got us asking ourselves questions.
Nice cameras Morris, Olympus M43 models have a real quality feel and as the the Mamiya - it’s a rock.
Totally agree with Steve!
I still have my Smena 8M, which my father bought for me in 1974. In fact, it was with this camera that my life in photography began.
Sometimes I load film into it and go shooting.
I shoot again, with much love, with the Nikon D80, although I have later models. And I recently bought a 1973 Kiev 6C, and I'm using it with great pleasure.
Good luck to you Steve and take care!
Thanks Yury.
As always, great video, Steve. Yes, and I have never bought a new camera , well, not in recent years. I was shooting with my old Olympus E-1, until I got back into using film. That camera always produced , great 11x14 and 13x19 prints. I decided to upgrade, for scanning the film, and got a Olympus E-30. As I already have a collection of FT lenses. The deal $168. And it came with a 200 page booklet. I'm old school, as you mention, f stop, shutter speed, ISO and I'm good to go. Then I decided to retire my old p&S , Oly C5060, and found a deal on a Oly PEN Mini (e pm1). Got the Panasonic adapter ft-mft, and now can use all my FT lenses. Total,, less than $200. Both E1 and E30 really feel great and I have the optional battery grip for both. I'm always on the look for a early mft body. KB
That’s a very frugal approach Ken, makes a lot of sense.
I bought my d700 new and still have it to this day there is some thing about it that makes it so nice to use, along with my d300 ,d70 and f80 ive never got rid of them, ive got film cameras too and also fuji x series system just the feel of these and way its layed out reminds me of my old film cameras, yes image quality varies alot between systems but as you say theres more to an image than pixels - nice vlog
Fuji seem to have for the right balance for a digital camera and they look pretty too.
I agree but I’ve not updated my xt2 to the newer latest model as I see no difference I like the way the images are rendered and the glass is good
Oh and the weight difference is amazing coming from d700
Just used my 1970's Olympus RC 35 photos are still great.
My digital camera has gone in for
repair after five years use.
It is likely that older, mostly mechanical cameras will outlast the digital ones. One of the biggest problems people will face is getting batteries and memory card, even stuff from 15 years ago is getting scarce.
I have used a Pentax ME Super solidly since 1989, it got me through my a-levels, art college, university and is still my go-to today. I have only just bought a Pentax LX body that has been sent straight out for a full-on shake down service and will see how that goes. There are no complaints with the Pentax 28mm or 50mm SMC prime lenses either.
That’s a lot of good use on the old Pentax - having them fully serviced is a good idea too, my FE’s got a full CLA two years ago.
Couldn’t agree more! I love and still use my dad’s 1971 Nikon Photomic F1, and my current cameras are my Nikon D700 for images and my Fuji XT2 for video. I have no plans for upgrading.
Good job 👍
Last year I was shooting a wedding with my D700 and old Nikon AF 28-105mm lens. My strap broke and the D700 went crashing down to the tarmac from waist height. Made a loud enough crash when it hit that one of the groomsmen heard it and looked concerned. I got that sinking feeling as I picked it up. Large paint chip missing from the bottom corner. Turned it on, tested AF and exposure. All worked perfectly! If that had been my D610 it would have been curtains. I did notice a solid dent in the tarmac where the D700 landed.... ;)
I also have the 28-105 and it is a very sturdy lens.
That was a great content .👍
That's all about feeling . Sometimes ago i thought with myself that one of the Common feature between famous photographers is that they had and have the same feeling about their gears . The love their cameras dramatically and they think they have the best camera and lens in their hands .
I have a 16mp nikon d7000 for 11 years and love it . It's features is enough for any type of photography .
Good luck 🤞.
It’s great when you have equipment you love and trust Mohammad, getting so much use out of a purchase is very satisfying.
Great video Steve! I love shooting with my old cameras, especially my Prakticas, Rolleicord and Certo six. I started shooting film when I was young and got my 1st DSLR only 5 years ago when I learned how to adapt my m42 and Exakta mount lenses. But I have been back to film for a year now and this is what I love most. And it's really the built quality, both for the cameras and lenses.
That’s a good set of cameras, the Certo 6 is certainly one I’ve looked for in the past but never come across one.
@@SteveONions It's an absolutely gorgeous camera and a pleasure to shoot with! I live less than 100 miles from where they come from and even here they are very hard to find.
@@SteveONions One is currently available from Ebay Australia $965 I think. I'd never even heard of a Certo 6
I can definitely relate to this. Been out today with my Lumix GF1 and it’s just so fun to use, solid and quality metal build, the skin tones are lovely and the OOC BW jpgs are gorgeous. I also prefer the images from my E-M5 II to the E-M1 II, just something different about them. I also still like to use my Ricoh GX200 with CCD sensor, it produces gorgeous images, both colour and mono. What you say at 6 mins is spot on.
That GF1 is a bit of a cult camera Alex, I know a few people who have only used M43 since getting their hands on one.
I agree 10,000% with everything you said. I love my old OMD EM1 over the EM1X I have and the Pen F digital is still my go to walk around camera. Nikon F2 and F3 are my all time favorites for 35mm film but nothing can beat my Hasselblad 500C or 503 CX. There is just something about the sound of that mirror and leaf shutter that instill confidence and just JOY
Same here Sophie, I loved how the 501CM handled and also the older Nikon’s.
I totally agree! I started my career with the Canon F1 AE in 1983 and the bought my last film camera in 1988 which was Canon’s last (and recently discontinued) 1V h. Even though I have bought and sold several digital cameras since then, none of them have had the same feel and delightful experience of use as the 1V! I still own all my pro film cameras with the 1V being in pristine condition, so you are inspiring me to maybe take it for a spin, even if it is only for the sake of nostalgia!😎🙏🏾
Glad it’s not just me who likes the old stuff Eugene.
Absolutely correct in my opinion too. I still use an old Pentax Super A film camera which works perfectly and just feels right as do the lenses. I have tried and still use Panasonic cameras which are fabulously light and do produce good images. For choice though I just love my Pentax K1 digital when I am feeling strong enough to carry it. It has all those things you mentioned superb build quality, fabulous handling, excellent controls and feels right in my hand. I doubt if I will ever need to upgrade it and it is built like a tank, so I think it will outlast me! Thanks for the video.
I almost got a K1 back in 2016 David but found the lens choice quite limiting so for a K3-II. Should have got the K1 🙁
Thank you for your thoughtful video Steve. I moved initially to micro four thirds after my experience as a teenager with the Olympus OM1n. Nowadays I work with either the OM2n, OM 4Ti or the Bronica ETRSI as I started to dislike the clinical looks of digital photos and love simplicity in use of cameras.
Can’t argue with your choice of cameras Steven, both systems have their place and are well built.
I have an OM4Ti and LOVE it
I inherited my mom’s Pentax KX when I was in high school, around 2010. I was fortunate that my high school still had a darkroom class. I learned my foundations on that camera, then went to film school. I got to work with so many incredible digital cameras in the stills and video world-Canon C300, Sony a7s, DJI Ronin, Red Dragon, Arri Alexa. As soon as I graduated and had free time again, the only camera I’ve been using for myself is my KX. I loved working with those cameras and I do need my pocket cine camera for video work, but when it comes to everything you talked about here, nothing I’ve held feels as good as this little 40+ year old metal block. And since it was my mom’s it has that extra bit of sentimentality to it as well. Thanks for sharing this with us, it’s nice to know that others will pick up cameras and just not be feelin it lol
I know exactly what you mean, it’s not always about the technology, you really have to connect with a camera to get the best out of it.
Enjoyed the video Steve, funny thing I just took delivery of my very first SLR a Nikon EM, it was my first real camera and I regretted selling it so after all these years I ordered one used from the UK, I can't wait to put some film through it. I owned many Nikons over the years and I still have a couple of them, but the one regret was selling my F4, I can see one in my future. Thanks for sharing.
Hope your EM rekindles memories John, I have one in the original case but I’ve never taken it out for a shoot.
Great video Steve!
Totally agree about the Nikon FE and the FE2. I had both and I wish I had never let go of them. There is definitely a difference between a "precision tool" and "something that does the job".
Very true Martin and I explore this in a couple of upcoming videos 👍
I have just got back from a beach walk with my 1959 Pentax H2. The fact that I chose this over my more recent cameras speaks volumes. It was a joy to operate, it feels (almost) as good as my M3 and I now rate my cameras generally as being the older the better.
Well said 🙂
I still use my D700.Infact i haven’t upgrade it to something never tool.It stills gives me what i need for a camera.Combined with some zeiss lenses.Love it!I use my old pentax lx too now,but that is thanks to inspiration from you Steve!
Glad you liked the video and well done for sticking with what works 👍
I’m using the Argus C3 I inherited from my Dad. Love it.
Great video (again) and I totally agree on it. Also in different fields. I still like my D90 over my MFTs or my older analogue Nikon SLRs over the F90x … you nailed it for me 100%
Stay safe.
Thank you 🙂
Back in the 1990s I was working as a newspaper reporter and always carried a little Nikon EM and a couple of cheap aftermarket lenses. Forced by circumstance to cover a high school football championship, I stood on the sidelines surrounded by people with F4s and F5s using huge lenses that surely cost more than I made in a year. Well, I happened to get the shot and won a statewide sports photography contest. In other words, it's still "f/8 and be there". Years later, after the market for film cameras collapsed, I got a beautiful F5. It's heavy and solid as a rock but it requires pressing two buttons at once to turn it off or on which I find tedious and pointless and difficult to perform with my old damaged fingers. At any rate, your point is well taken; use equipment that works for you and you're comfortable with. Thanks Steve, you always put out interesting and useful videos.
Thanks Michael. I often find the basic cameras much better for my kind of photography.
The switches and dials on my Nikon D4 - much faster to set than the Sony mirrorless I have where I have to hunt deep into the menu.
Some very good points! I would say, it depends. One of my favourite cameras, a Rolleiflex from 1969, ist mainly made from thin sheet metal with a lot of plastic, and has some fiddly knobs and buttons. The Nikon F2 from a few years later feels more solid, but so does the Nikon FM3a from 2003. And as far as digital is concerned: Picture quality is not only matter of sensor size and pixel count, but also of processors and of course lenses. Some of my pictures from 2008 when I went digital looks still great, some do not... ---- Well anyhow, good we still have some old cameras and a lot of films to choose from!
There are still really well made cameras around and similarly there was a lot of junk from the 70’s and 80’s. I suppose we tend to focus on the best of the bunch which somewhat skews the comparison.
I totally agree with you Steve. I bought a new Nikon Z5 last year with the FTZ adapter but the camera I go to most of the time is my old Nikon D3 and D300 which I bought used years ago. I still have my Nikon F5 from the old film days and that is still a beautiful camera to hold and feel. Same as lens too, I have many old Nikon lens and although some have no VR or slower focusing and not as sharp as the new ones but they build like a tank. An example is the 80-200mm.
Some great old cameras there Peter, I know what you mean about getting pleasure from holding them.
Hi Steve I enjoyed your perspective on camera build and functionality. My Nikon D700 arrived on Tuesday. I made the right choice for all the reasons you mentioned. I very nearly went for the newer 610 or 750. More pixels etc. But I have a D300 and I just love the functional layout of that camera which is replicated of course in D700. Great video. Tom
Thanks Tom, I’m sure you will love the D700.
Join us on Fb
"Nikon D700/The Legend"
I totally agree with you Steve. I recently bought an OM-D E-M1, manufactured in 2013. I just love this camera. I had an E-M10 Mk III before, and I'm really happy with my move. On the same vein, I shoot film, and I own Canon New F-1, A-1, an Olympus O-M1 and a Miranda Sensorex, all very well built, it's a pleasure to use them, much more than recent DLSR.
I like your choice of cameras Jerémy, all well built and still extremely capable.
My favourite old film camera is my Minolta X-9 and my favourite old digital camera is a toss up between Olympus pocket camera XZ-2 and or the EM-10 mk ii. Great show.
Thanks Neil.
I still love using my old Canon G15. Great build on it plus it handles like a tiny 5D in terms of where the controls are. Great little grab and use camera.
There's a noticeable difference in build quality comparing my Fuji X70, that I love, to the recently released Fuji's too.
I’ve also got a G15, now converted to infrared. Lovely little camera.
Right there with you 👍
I have an Oly E5, which is seriously and satisfyingly chunky and gives me no concern in rain or dust storms. Attached to a monopod, it's also reassuringly effective if the need arises for self-defence.
😀
Hi Steve... I am a Nikon since the times of the FE.... Today I have a Nikon D600 and a D500 and recently I purchased the Z50.... And I did sold my D300 and I have regret it since then. But with my 3 Nikon I have.... I am ok for now, but also have the same range of vintage Nikon Nikkor lenses you have shown and with the FTZ adapter I am using them all in all my Nikons!!!!! Love you videos and actually I just subscribe to your channel... I am 64 now but still enjoying mi photography as the same tanager that his grandfather gift him the FM Nikon over 45 years ago!!!!!! Thanks for bringing me back memories so pleasant to me.
Thanks Walter, I’m glad you enjoy the videos. It’s amazing how much use the old Nikkor lenses still get and being able to adapt them to modem cameras is just perfect.
Well said Steve. I have the latest and greatest Nikon range Z9 etc but I use my film cameras more and more! For me the Nikon FM is/was the best mix of technology and 'feel' in an SLR
New cameras offer hundreds of options I never wanted. So it's obvious: This device has never been constructed for me. With the older camera and those some crisp features I'd once chosen, are suiting to me perfectly. And that's why I still use them as the optimal choice for my own photography
I doubt I’ve used more than 5% of my modern cameras features Reinhart.
Agree so much :-) As always a very good video from you. Was buying in to newer Fuji X cameras, but decided to stick with the first model, the X-T1. Same with film cameras, I am so happy with my old Canon A-1 and my Hasselblad 500cm.
It’s strange how the first model of a new line is often regarded as the best, even though later ones have ‘improvements’.
@@SteveONions exactly! I also kept my Nikon D100 crop sensor camera for the film like look in the images from it. The later models didn’t please me and their image quality lacked something despite their higher resolution. Just like you also stated.
Absolutely right Steve. Although I love and would never sell my 1975 Nikon F2, bought an F4s back in 2011, mostly because of failing eyesight frustrations when dealing with rapidly changing light levels. Christmas 2020, Santa was kind enough to give me an F5 :-) which I've only started using the last couple of months. Love the viewfinder, sound of the shuttter, shutter release action and just the feel of the thing. It even smells good! BUT, as soon as the current roll of Ektachrome 100 is finished I'm going back to the F4. May be with continued use I'd get used to it, but it just seems to get in the way and have to fight with it all the time.
I’d love an F4 and F5 Andrew but with the F90x and F100 getting little use I know they’d be overlooked too 😢
As usual another great video. I to have the Nikon D700, i love it, but i also love my film camera's, nikkormats and my Yashica and Rolleicord tlr's. I keep holding off on purchasing a newer digital camera because they do feel 'cheap' compared to my older D700 and my film camera's that i really enjoy using. I just found you and I really enjoy your video's. Thx.
Thanks Rudy. No point changing if your cameras do what you need 🙂
Yes! I can relate very much to this. I still use my Nikon D7100 more than my Nikon Z5 or Fujifilm camera. There's just something about it that feels right for me.
👍 can’t argue with that.