I want to acknowledge that I am fortunate to live in one of the greatest countries in the world and enjoy many privileges. Despite this privilege, I've come to realize that the value I place on material possessions doesn't always align with their price tags. While some might assume that purchasing an expensive camera would bring me excitement or an adrenaline rush, I've discovered that I derive more satisfaction from acquiring affordable tech gear that enhances my daily work. The practicality and functionality of a $30 tech gadget can have a tangible impact on my productivity and efficiency, which is what truly excites me. It's not that I disregard or take for granted the luxury of being able to afford expensive items; rather, I've found my personal preferences and satisfaction lie in items that serve my specific needs effectively, regardless of their price.
Very good question... It was a while ago so back then I guess I was a bit excited. It was so very different from a Canon. Like a new world opened up. Yes, I was very excited back then.
A year or two ago I realized that the main reason I take pictures is because I love to use my camera gear. I love cameras and lenses. I love the shutter sound of my Nikon D3x. I love the sound and feel of the many small switches and buttons on my modern Nikon cameras, or when the mechanics of the focus ring of a Nikkor from the 80s turns buttery smooth. I am also happy about successful photos and good light, but camera gear is my real hobby. But. Professionally I can fully understand you. I'm a professional illustrator and when I get a new Macbook or a Wacom Cintiq monitor, I feel exactly as you describe in the video. I spend thousands of euros on them every few years and feel nothing. They are just my tools.
For absolute professionals like you, the camera should not limit you and if the new camera can do something that helps you and the "old" camera can not do it is a good thing, if not then that's a shame. The problem is that almost all cameras are very good nowadays and it doesn't matter what name is on the body. I pre-ordered a Nikon Z8 and I'm torn about whether it's necessary and the anticipation isn't as great as it used to be, even though I'm a technology nerd. The most important thing is to have fun taking pictures....
Hi Martin, I feel we like to finish tasks or achieve closure. The bracket provides closure quickly and reassuringly, but a camera alone cannot achieve closure. As you say its a tool that along with lenses, lighting etc allows a project to be pursued. Closure can only be achieve when the image or film is reviewed. Well that's what I think🤔
I think you're very right, it's not so exciting to get a new camera within the modern systems. Jumping from a crop sensor to full frame, or full frame to medium format for the first time would surely make more of an impact, but in basic functionality there's just not that much of a difference anymore from one relatively up-to-date camera to the next. But, your V-mount plate for your lights, or a new modifier to create an effect, or even something way simpler like a background paper or cloth with a new or interesting pattern that might cost as little as a dollar or two that delivers a unique character to your images, it just feels so much more because it makes this distinct, immediate difference to appearance or workflow. One of my favorite photography purchases was just a simple cable so I could shoot tethered. A huge, positive difference to workflow, for about $7USD. Part of me will always long for a full frame camera body since I know there would be a difference in image quality. But I also know that the aps-c camera body that I have now is already very much good enough for the level of my work now. Knowing that, I'm far more inclined to spend money on other things that will have a direct effect on my photos or the ease with which I can take them. And this is coming from someone who does think of himself as a "camera nerd". So yeah, I think it's very normal to feel more from a small thing that makes a relatively big change versus a big/expensive thing that doesn't show much apparent change at all compared to what you've already had. Thank you for your videos!
I think we are 'in the same boat'. Taking pictures rn with Nikon D3 ( can't be bothered to buy a new camera ) today purchased 300mm f/2.8 VR and I'm feeling in some ways a bit sad. I don't like the idea of carrying around this monster + the price but at the same time I feel like that's the right lens for my needs at the moment.
As a newbie in product photography, I can say, that right now, I am much more amazed by the capabilities of artificial light, than by the capabilities of my camera. «Мартин» in russian language 👋
Hi Martin, I've gained a great deal of satisfaction from making 3 diffusers recently and realising that my 10 year-old camera is ok to begin my journey into product and still-life photography. Thank you for everything you do for us out here in UA-cam land. I'm learning so much 😁 Richard
I felt the same thing a few days ago when I had a problem with my camera and bought a new one to continue my work. I opened the box took camera and started to set it up and felt nothing. In the beginning I use to shoot to buy gear but now that I shoot as a professional gear is just a tool like a hammer for a carpenter
I’m not a camera nerd tech geek, either…but I like my tools! I like making pictures with my tools, and for me, that’s the excitement. I’ve studied just about every aspect of photography but now I just let all that knowledge make the pictures. 😎
Last week I spent $1200 on a new iPhone. It looks just like the old one. It functions just like the old one. The camera is better, but over all I'm just meh about it. But a couple days ago I spent $20 on a flashlight that I'm just giddy about. So... yeah. I totally get this.
I've been thinking about not getting caught up in the new Nikon mirrorless hype. The optical viewfinder is nice but - the DSLR has a focus box on the eye too, we just can't see it through the lens. I've decided not to get a new camera.
When I first decided to dip my toe into digital from film I bought a phase one back and a Hassleblad body prob in 2004 or so and I think I spent $30K. Then I was excited because it was a new technology and I was deep in the learning curve. Now I've learned to stop buying..(although I want new video camera).
Yes. Two things play a role here, first is, the joy of creativity, or to find small tools and gadgets that enable you to solve some problems the creative way. The other thing is, linking joy to posession will always leave you empty and disappointed. Same here, when I buy a new tool, and it arrives, it's oh, there it is. Gotta try it then. And when I use it then, it's yea, it does the job. Good. So that's that. A tool. Nothing more. Needs to function properly. Doesn't need to look good nor does it have to have fancy features. But that's the problem with people, they think, buying expensive stuff will fulfill them, make them whole. When the disappointment sets in, they think already about the next thing to buy. Guess what happens then... Same game again. So, being materialistic as your only source of joy will keep you in the loop of always being dissatisfied. Joy can be found in creativity ( derived from CREATING ), nature, love, building something with your own hands. Whatever it is, it's not possession or wealth. And the best part of creativity or whatever you do is - you can share it with people who also value and enjoy what you have to share.
I recently upgraded from a EOS R to a EOS R6 mk II and I couldn't be more excited! It won't make me a better photographer but I'm getting into filmmaking and the EOS R had a lot of shortcomings when it comes to video. So no it won't make me a better filmmaker, but it will allow me to do stuff I couldn't do before with my EOS R in terms of video.
I would have 'gear rush' when that new thing would enable me to do something I couldn't and didn't do before, you know, like your first fifty mm, then your first macro lens, then your first full frame, then your first, I don't know, some crazy wide aperture or new lights or c stand. And then we kind of do it and play with it and whatnot and then it's kind of 'everyday' stuff. It's nice but then we get other things on our wish lists, right? And go forward. I'm nowhere near knowing it all and being 'the master', I make a nice living with food photography but I think now I'm in the phase of wanting to learn and perfect my skills more with what I already have (and I do have lots of stuff, haha, as anyone in his studio has, the things we need and many we don't) rather than 'gearing' up more stuff. Lately I have tried my friends camera which is more advanced than mine but I don't think that it would make me better at this point. I have to make myself better, if something needs bettering, hehe. And that's kind of where I am, everyone has their own ideas of what's needed or not. But playing with new gear is also fun! Maybe in a few days, new weeks, it will get you interested and you'll have fun playing with it. If nothing, you can always take it back, right? Or make a video about it... Who knows! You'll see :) Happy new week, Martin!
Thanks a lot! I will shoot a wedding !? this weekend for the first time in 20 years, kind of promised a friend... So maybe the eye focus thing on this new camera will get me excited 😁
I have been doing photography professionally for more than 14 years and I recently got a new camera - Canon R6 MK ii. My reason for buying and the reaction was exactly the same as yours. NOTHING, i felt nothing 🥲
@@botvidsson I love your channel and i think you are one of the few people who actually knows what he is doing. This is why i have a question for you (i cant solve it yet). I shoot e-commerce diamond jewellery on white bg and have to shoot 150 products a day (3 angles per product!). My problem is, I have to shoot the metal(gold) separately (using diffusion) and diamonds separately (not so diffused) and later on composite them in photoshop. Plus I have to focus stack! Is there a way where i can shoot both the metal and the diamond in one shot? This will save my life. Can you make a video on shooting a diamond ring where the metal has nice gradients and the diamonds sparkle at the same time? I saw your recent video where you use a black crumpled paper with holes for the diamonds, but this cant work in e-commerce(it lacks speed). I know if there is anyone who is capable of figuring this out its you. I have tried and failed, many times. if the metal looks good, the diamonds are blown out. Thank you and cheers.
It's not perfect, but I would use a diffusion cone just like I did in this member-only video: ua-cam.com/video/MDg-utpz9pg/v-deo.html Watch the video quick, I will delete the hidden link soon. 😁
@@botvidsson I tried joining. There is something wrong with my card. Will join, watch the video and get back to you. You can delete the link. Thank you
I want to acknowledge that I am fortunate to live in one of the greatest countries in the world and enjoy many privileges. Despite this privilege, I've come to realize that the value I place on material possessions doesn't always align with their price tags.
While some might assume that purchasing an expensive camera would bring me excitement or an adrenaline rush, I've discovered that I derive more satisfaction from acquiring affordable tech gear that enhances my daily work. The practicality and functionality of a $30 tech gadget can have a tangible impact on my productivity and efficiency, which is what truly excites me.
It's not that I disregard or take for granted the luxury of being able to afford expensive items; rather, I've found my personal preferences and satisfaction lie in items that serve my specific needs effectively, regardless of their price.
Were you excited when you bought the Blad?
Very good question... It was a while ago so back then I guess I was a bit excited. It was so very different from a Canon. Like a new world opened up. Yes, I was very excited back then.
Dude - that is REALLY funny - “Mart-nn”…you got the American accent perfect! 😆
Hehe 😁 thanks man
I love your energy!!!
Thanks a lot!
Love your humour!!
Thanks Pavel 😁
A year or two ago I realized that the main reason I take pictures is because I love to use my camera gear. I love cameras and lenses. I love the shutter sound of my Nikon D3x. I love the sound and feel of the many small switches and buttons on my modern Nikon cameras, or when the mechanics of the focus ring of a Nikkor from the 80s turns buttery smooth. I am also happy about successful photos and good light, but camera gear is my real hobby. But. Professionally I can fully understand you. I'm a professional illustrator and when I get a new Macbook or a Wacom Cintiq monitor, I feel exactly as you describe in the video. I spend thousands of euros on them every few years and feel nothing. They are just my tools.
Sometimes, not often nowadays, I shoot with my medium format film camera Pentax 67 II. I love the sound of that shutter. Pure joy.
For absolute professionals like you, the camera should not limit you and if the new camera can do something that helps you and the "old" camera can not do it is a good thing, if not then that's a shame.
The problem is that almost all cameras are very good nowadays and it doesn't matter what name is on the body. I pre-ordered a Nikon Z8 and I'm torn about whether it's necessary and the anticipation isn't as great as it used to be, even though I'm a technology nerd.
The most important thing is to have fun taking pictures....
I agree. I'm more excited over the final photograph.
Hi Martin, I feel we like to finish tasks or achieve closure. The bracket provides closure quickly and reassuringly, but a camera alone cannot achieve closure. As you say its a tool that along with lenses, lighting etc allows a project to be pursued. Closure can only be achieve when the image or film is reviewed. Well that's what I think🤔
Yes, exactly! Very true.
I think you're very right, it's not so exciting to get a new camera within the modern systems. Jumping from a crop sensor to full frame, or full frame to medium format for the first time would surely make more of an impact, but in basic functionality there's just not that much of a difference anymore from one relatively up-to-date camera to the next. But, your V-mount plate for your lights, or a new modifier to create an effect, or even something way simpler like a background paper or cloth with a new or interesting pattern that might cost as little as a dollar or two that delivers a unique character to your images, it just feels so much more because it makes this distinct, immediate difference to appearance or workflow. One of my favorite photography purchases was just a simple cable so I could shoot tethered. A huge, positive difference to workflow, for about $7USD.
Part of me will always long for a full frame camera body since I know there would be a difference in image quality. But I also know that the aps-c camera body that I have now is already very much good enough for the level of my work now. Knowing that, I'm far more inclined to spend money on other things that will have a direct effect on my photos or the ease with which I can take them. And this is coming from someone who does think of himself as a "camera nerd". So yeah, I think it's very normal to feel more from a small thing that makes a relatively big change versus a big/expensive thing that doesn't show much apparent change at all compared to what you've already had.
Thank you for your videos!
Thanks. Very wise words.
I think we are 'in the same boat'. Taking pictures rn with Nikon D3 ( can't be bothered to buy a new camera ) today purchased 300mm f/2.8 VR and I'm feeling in some ways a bit sad. I don't like the idea of carrying around this monster + the price but at the same time I feel like that's the right lens for my needs at the moment.
Yeah, you got the tool you needed for the moment, hopefully you'll be excited over the photos.
As a newbie in product photography, I can say, that right now, I am much more amazed by the capabilities of artificial light, than by the capabilities of my camera.
«Мартин» in russian language 👋
Light is magic
Hi Martin, I've gained a great deal of satisfaction from making 3 diffusers recently and realising that my 10 year-old camera is ok to begin my journey into product and still-life photography.
Thank you for everything you do for us out here in UA-cam land. I'm learning so much 😁 Richard
Fantastic! Thanks for the support Richard.
I felt the same thing a few days ago when I had a problem with my camera and bought a new one to continue my work.
I opened the box took camera and started to set it up and felt nothing.
In the beginning I use to shoot to buy gear but now that I shoot as a professional gear is just a tool like a hammer for a carpenter
Exactly the same for me. It's like an over priced hammer. 😁
@@botvidsson overpriced is the word 😅
I’m not a camera nerd tech geek, either…but I like my tools! I like making pictures with my tools, and for me, that’s the excitement. I’ve studied just about every aspect of photography but now I just let all that knowledge make the pictures. 😎
"making pictures" yes, that's the whole thing
Last week I spent $1200 on a new iPhone. It looks just like the old one. It functions just like the old one. The camera is better, but over all I'm just meh about it. But a couple days ago I spent $20 on a flashlight that I'm just giddy about. So... yeah. I totally get this.
100% like that
I am even less excited by the ridiculous resale price of DSLR gear since the mass adoption of mirrorless equipment.
I just sold my Canon 5D Mk3 with the a shutter count of 150 000+, I got $500! Very happy 😁
@@botvidsson as my favorite dealer stressed 2 years ago: « you should sell it all now! ».
I've been thinking about not getting caught up in the new Nikon mirrorless hype. The optical viewfinder is nice but - the DSLR has a focus box on the eye too, we just can't see it through the lens. I've decided not to get a new camera.
Probably a smart choice
I hear you brother!
Life…
@@botvidsson Indeed
When I first decided to dip my toe into digital from film I bought a phase one back and a Hassleblad body prob in 2004 or so and I think I spent $30K. Then I was excited because it was a new technology and I was deep in the learning curve. Now I've learned to stop buying..(although I want new video camera).
Same for me, except for the stop buying part 😁
@@botvidsson my equipment closet is a graveyard of “necessary” gear…😆
same for me. why didn't I sell the shit 5 years ago 😁
I use Canon 5D II. Because I'm broke. :)
No one can spot any difference between a 5D Mk2 and a R5 image.
I don't know why, I spend very easily on the books. But not for gears. I decided to change my Nikon D90 soon, but I would buy some books before. 😉
Hehe. Great! 😁
Yes. Two things play a role here, first is, the joy of creativity, or to find small tools and gadgets that enable you to solve some problems the creative way. The other thing is, linking joy to posession will always leave you empty and disappointed. Same here, when I buy a new tool, and it arrives, it's oh, there it is. Gotta try it then. And when I use it then, it's yea, it does the job. Good. So that's that. A tool. Nothing more. Needs to function properly. Doesn't need to look good nor does it have to have fancy features. But that's the problem with people, they think, buying expensive stuff will fulfill them, make them whole. When the disappointment sets in, they think already about the next thing to buy. Guess what happens then... Same game again. So, being materialistic as your only source of joy will keep you in the loop of always being dissatisfied. Joy can be found in creativity ( derived from CREATING ), nature, love, building something with your own hands. Whatever it is, it's not possession or wealth. And the best part of creativity or whatever you do is - you can share it with people who also value and enjoy what you have to share.
Very wise words, thanks!
I recently upgraded from a EOS R to a EOS R6 mk II and I couldn't be more excited! It won't make me a better photographer but I'm getting into filmmaking and the EOS R had a lot of shortcomings when it comes to video. So no it won't make me a better filmmaker, but it will allow me to do stuff I couldn't do before with my EOS R in terms of video.
New features is another thing. That's great!
I would have 'gear rush' when that new thing would enable me to do something I couldn't and didn't do before, you know, like your first fifty mm, then your first macro lens, then your first full frame, then your first, I don't know, some crazy wide aperture or new lights or c stand. And then we kind of do it and play with it and whatnot and then it's kind of 'everyday' stuff. It's nice but then we get other things on our wish lists, right? And go forward.
I'm nowhere near knowing it all and being 'the master', I make a nice living with food photography but I think now I'm in the phase of wanting to learn and perfect my skills more with what I already have (and I do have lots of stuff, haha, as anyone in his studio has, the things we need and many we don't) rather than 'gearing' up more stuff. Lately I have tried my friends camera which is more advanced than mine but I don't think that it would make me better at this point. I have to make myself better, if something needs bettering, hehe. And that's kind of where I am, everyone has their own ideas of what's needed or not.
But playing with new gear is also fun! Maybe in a few days, new weeks, it will get you interested and you'll have fun playing with it. If nothing, you can always take it back, right? Or make a video about it... Who knows! You'll see :) Happy new week, Martin!
Thanks a lot! I will shoot a wedding !? this weekend for the first time in 20 years, kind of promised a friend... So maybe the eye focus thing on this new camera will get me excited 😁
Martin in Slovak language 🇸🇰 And pronounced exactly like in Swedish 🇸🇪.
Ooh! 😮 That’s cool!
You felt … poorer 😊
Very much so... 😁
Thanks
Glad you like it
Marcin :) In Poland :)
Aah, that's a new one. 😁
Vielen dankf ür das Video
You are very welcome
I have been doing photography professionally for more than 14 years and I recently got a new camera - Canon R6 MK ii. My reason for buying and the reaction was exactly the same as yours. NOTHING, i felt nothing 🥲
Yes, it's a bit sad. But that's how it is. The camera is just a tool.
@@botvidsson I love your channel and i think you are one of the few people who actually knows what he is doing. This is why i have a question for you (i cant solve it yet).
I shoot e-commerce diamond jewellery on white bg and have to shoot 150 products a day (3 angles per product!). My problem is, I have to shoot the metal(gold) separately (using diffusion) and diamonds separately (not so diffused) and later on composite them in photoshop. Plus I have to focus stack!
Is there a way where i can shoot both the metal and the diamond in one shot? This will save my life. Can you make a video on shooting a diamond ring where the metal has nice gradients and the diamonds sparkle at the same time? I saw your recent video where you use a black crumpled paper with holes for the diamonds, but this cant work in e-commerce(it lacks speed).
I know if there is anyone who is capable of figuring this out its you. I have tried and failed, many times. if the metal looks good, the diamonds are blown out.
Thank you and cheers.
It's not perfect, but I would use a diffusion cone just like I did in this member-only video: ua-cam.com/video/MDg-utpz9pg/v-deo.html
Watch the video quick, I will delete the hidden link soon. 😁
@@botvidsson Thank you very much. There was no need to share the members only link. I will join 🤝
@@botvidsson I tried joining. There is something wrong with my card. Will join, watch the video and get back to you. You can delete the link. Thank you