Great timing Duade, I’ve started looking into a monitor. I’ve been getting down and dirty on the local pond and these cold mornings are giving my neck grief! I’ll probably go with just a basic screen for now, I don’t have a need to record the screen. Nobody needs to see all my mistakes!!
On a Nikon DSLR like my D850 I do this with an iPhone or iPad mini with the SnapBridge app, wirelessly transmitting using Live View and you have all controls for camera functionality. Thank for your great video
Thanks for the information. I don’t plan on using a monitor anytime soon, but it is interesting to see how to add one and use it. Always appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience.
Thanks Duade. I bought a Godox GM6S yesterday in Sydney. Using it with my Z9. Excellent. Also got the remote cable to access camera functions on monitor screen. Cheers.
Duade I struggle a little with age-related eyesight on macros compared to years ago. The larger monitor would be perfect for this and flower shots too. Thanks and cheers.
Duade, a very interesting concept. I don't have one but your video suggests that they might be good when photographing birds or animals in the natural settings. I think the weight can be a problem for me as I have a similar back ache when handholding a large camera and lens. So, thank you for the inventive use of video gear for stills and capture the EVF actions.
Thanks Stuart, yes, they have a specific use case and I mainly use the EVF but have found it useful at times. My back really does play up when using it out in front though. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Hi Duade it would be great to see a video on your thoughts on gear for the older birder ie those of us who have knee or hip problems making in harder to get down low or suffer from back pain or arthiritic shoulders, wrists etc. I also like to travel a lot in SE Asia but the Sony 200-600 is becoming too much to lug around (and disguise the weight of my carryon bag). Is the OM-1 and 100-400mm the answer?
@@cloudpandarism2627 I like this channel and Duade takes good photos, just looked like he wanted to give an example of taking photos low to the ground with an external monitor and showed a throwaway photo to illustrate that, just my opinion.
Thanks for mentioning the 3 point contact when using the EVF instead of the monitor or the LCD screen for that matter. It really helps to stabilize the camera.
Timely as always. Thanks. I’ve been seriously looking into getting a monitor. My original thoughts were to use it solely as a video monitor. Your discussion here just opened other doors to creativity in me. Cheers. P.S. mind the back. I too sometimes struggle with similar challenges. Wear and tear of life I guess.
Thanks again! I just happen to have bought an external recording monitor for my OM-1 Mark II. I am just waiting on the proper hdmi cable to arrive. I am hoping it will help me with the bird videos that I shoot, but I see now from this video it can also be useful for stills. This was just what I needed to help me get started. - Mick Thompson, Seattle Washington.
Having seen this video, I pulled the trigger for the Atomos Shinobi II and so far, I am quite happy with it. I would prefer to have the HDMI on the side of the monitor, but I‘ll get over it 🤓
Thanks Duade for the video. Beautiful shots of the Robin 😊 they’re not as stunning here in the UK but they still make a great image. I have been using the Atomos Shinobi monitor for a year or so on occasions on my R5 and R6 Mk2 which is great and just like your Ninja without the hard drive. Picked one up last year for £299. I use the big Anton Bauer battery on mine with the Manfrotto mini ball head. I used it the other day on a tripod to get some flight shots of birds coming onto the feeders. Gives more chance of catching the shot due to the peripheral vision you get as you say. Cheers 😊
I’m Sony shooter and have consistently used the Ninja V monitor for over 3-years. Both my camera and the Ninja V are equipped with SmallRig cages. These cages secure the HDMI cable to both devices and prevents accidental damage from bumps. Additionally, my monitor is fitted with a SmallRig sunshield, which enhances contrast and color display.
Your videos are so easy to understand, thanks a bunch Duade 🙂 I use the Portkeys 6 and I have a harness on to carry the load on my shoulders via 2 straps either side of the camera and my lower back never has issues. I have never used the view finder to catch the birds in flight everything runs through the monitor.
Duade. I use a monitor with my R7. The camera LCD can be set to using your thumb on it to move the focal point around and it does appear moving on the monitor. I have the zone to be the right half of the LCD screen. Works slick. Check it out. You're so right on the advantages of a monitor. I love it for the low shots and it really helps with better composition.
Thanks for yet another excellent video. Brightness and angle of view are also important factors for outdoor use. Personally, I prefer brighter and larger monitors and I have a Desview R72 (7 inches, 2600 nits). My typical use case is when using a tripod with an inverted center column to have the camera at ground (or water) level, or any other situation where I can't use the viewfinder. In these situations, I usually attach the monitor to the tripod so that I can sit still behind the tripod while swinging the camera left and right.
Duade thanks for tips. I use the Feelworld Field Monitor on my Z7 for the purpose of videoing myself when public speaking. The monitor is facing me so that I can correctly set up the scene and then when recording I can make sure I am not stepping out of the frame by simply glancing over at the monitor screen. I have not yet used it for nature and wildlife shooting, but I can see a purpose for vlogging.
Best video so far... I've been searching for a video on this subject but to no avail. I would like to use a monitor for photography only. Using my iphone as a monitor creates some lag. Thanks for the video
Thanks for another great and really interesting video. To be honest it never entered my head that one of these might be a good idea - just thought it was something you needed to record EVF info and add to your videos. Of course now you've got me thinking - no need for me to record but maybe the Portkeys PT6 or similar and that Smallrig mount. I'm definitely getting to old for lying on the ground and straining my neck to look through a viewfinder! Really interesting to read other comments and see what equipment other members/subscribers are using. Thanks again. John
My pleasure John, yes, it is worth considering, I think some people also use their phones but takes some setting up to work properly. It is an option for when you are stationary that is for sure, just a bit difficult handheld etc. Cheers, Duade
Great video. Thanks. I got the PT6 last week after watching Jan’s video and so far it has worked OK. I’m still struggling with sun glare but it’s probably something I’m doing wrong. And like you, I suffer from the back, so it will be used on a tripod.
Interesting! When I have setup at water I naturally just want to use the back screen of my camera but I end up getting worried i'll miss the shot and end up looking down the viewfinder when the birds arrive. This video proves to me you don't have to be glued to the EVF, especially with the help of eye tracking makes it really easy to focus on framing the photo. P.S. those are my favourite scarlet robin photos that you have ever taken!
Thanks Kurtis, I must admit I do like looking down the EVF but the monitor does work well on a tripod at setups. Yes, very lucky to have the Scarlet visit. Cheers, Duade
Thank you very much for this video. I've considering getting a Ninja V for my OM-1 to show what's happening on my screen also, but the price kind of drives me away. The other uses you mention do add a fair amount to the balance though, and I might just pull the trigger on that purchase soon haha
Hi Duade. I have a Canon R7 and it has a Zebra setting and I can't imagine that the other EOS R models don't have this. I also use a Godox GM6S 5.5" 4K HDMI Ultra Bright on-camera monitor that has touch screen capabilities with an extra cable. The Godox monitor itself also has a Zebra setting and much more! I only use the monitor for filming in the field and photograph at setups with feed silo and specially placed branches and trunks, whether or not covered with moss. I only photograph flying birds looking through the viewfinder, because an on-camera monitor is just as unsuitable for that as the screen on the back of your camera!
G'day Henk, I believe the zebras only work in video mode, not stills which I was referring too. I have yet to find a Canon body that allows zebras in stills which Sony, Olympus offer. I am happy to be corrected of course. Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Nice video. I shoot mostly birds but use my Feelworld Monitor to eliminate a lot of duplicates and out of focus shots before loading them to my computer. Much easier than using the evf.
I used to use a tablet tethered to my old DSLR. It worked a treat. It was touch screen when the DSLR wasn't. Luckily there was an app that provided the functionality. The tablet was great when shooting stills, not action shots. I did a lot of astro at the time and it was easier to manually focus with the larger screen. I thought the articulating screen on my R6 would make a monitor redundant but it is still too small. So I'm pleased to see there is an option. Too bad it loses the touchscreen ability.
Thanks for the informative video. My biggest concern is the ability to see the monitor on a bright sunny day. I find the Sony A7RIV and A7RV displays not bright enough to see detail, even in Sunny mode.
Good point David and I should have tested that but I cannot recall it ever being an issue but I often don't shoot in the middle of the day. I think you can get a hood for the monitor to help shield it from the sun. There are also brighter screens available. Cheers, Duade
I bought the Portkeys PT6 on Jan's advice in his video around 6 weeks ago but haven't used it yet. Won't get an opportunity for another 5 weeks as I've had abdominal surgery (hernia) and not allowed to lift (ruling out the R3 and 500f4 combination). Sucks to be me! It's already been 3 weeks without using the combination in anger, so 8 weeks...hell on Earth!!!
Any more Olympus vids coming up soon? That's next on my list of camera gear to buy. I'd really like to see a comparison to the Cannon's for bird AI and how well it tracks targets.
Hi Riley, yes, I plan on doing that video later in the month early next month as I have the Nikon Z8 coming soon which I need to focus on first. The OM-1 is a brilliant camera and I look forward to doing some comparisons. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thanks for the useful information. Recording the EVF is obviously essential for you. Other than that, I think it’s worth considering simply using the articulated screen, which is smaller but keeps the touch-screen and other functionality.
@@wellsyboy He meant it's worth using the built-in screen on the camera rather than the viewfinder. However, I've found taking photos in sunlight very difficult, even while using the screen on the A7iii that I use (I don't use the viewfinder at all). So that's why I want an external display and how I ended up on this video 😅
Thanks Duade. I had never considered these before and now I know how they can be used. With a bad back and being used to my own routine I don't think it would work for me. Thanks very much for a well presented video.
After having done a couple of hide shootings, combining my R5 with the Ninja V (had one laying around for videography anyways) and a solid cable shutter release helped a lot.
@@amrizul You mean, angles that the LCD on the back can not easily be tilted to. Or when it's perhaps inconvenient to flip out a fully articulating screen?
@@Mathieu_Matheow_Benoit But when you do not need recording, what advantages would it have over the LCD on the back of the camera besides size? Brightness perhaps? I don't know.
Hi Tim, the LCD works find the majority of the time, often its position can be a little arkward depending on brand. Canon is off to the side and tilted and I prefer the monitor on top looking at the subject, the size is also a bonus. But if the LCD works for you then no real need for a monitor. Cheers, Duade
I have been dabbling with an app called Monitor+ that converts my cellphone into a monitor. It works with both an HDMI cable (needs a converter) and a USB cable (also needs a cheap USB-A to USB-C adapter because the camera takes USB-micro). It's quirky and holding the phone in the correct position with the cheap accessories I use is a task but it gives me a larger screen than the rear LCD and a lot of monitor-like functionality. Plus it's cheaper! Also there are OEM apps like Imaging Edge that are free.
I’m wondering if I’ll be able to balance my gimbal with a field monitor. I really hope so. I learned a lot from the video, but there’s so much to learn. Anyway, thanks.
Hi Duade, thanks again for a great video & info on the monitors. I've mentioned to you earlier of my back issues & extensive surgery so your mentioning of your back issues helps me no end in this matter. I don't recall you mentioning the visibility aspects of the monitor, I guess I'm not alone in having problems seeing the screens on my cameras in bright sunlight, I see some monitors come with a velcro shade which could be helpful. I'm now about to see if a monitor is available to use on my 90D, although after watching your clips I think an R6 mkii is getting closer. Thanks again mate, if you have any knowledge of the 90D + monitor it would be appreciated.
G'day George, I have not had any major issues in the sun but I rarely shoot after 9am and before 3pm so I have not fully tested it in full sunlight but as you say you can get a hood for it. 90D should work but I think the FPS will be restricted. I hope someone with a 90D can comment. Cheers, Duade
Another font of info, Duade - thanks for the insights on monitors! I appreciated your take on them & the many great shots you shared; some very nice Robin images. I think the one with the rain captured was probably my favorite. I can't see myself using a monitor due to my usual style of shooting & the extra weight & imbalance, but I can see how for some, they might be just the ticket. If I shot video with any regularity, I could surely see them being a benefit. Thanks again for giving us more angles to consider in regards to our photography & may those Robins keep showing up near you for more opportunities! Best regards & good shooting ~ Chris
Thanks Chris, yes, very lucky to have those Robins here, so beautiful. Yes, If I wasn't filming I probably would not use the monitor all that often but I know some people may find them very useful. Cheers, Duade
You should get a cage like of SmallRig brand. Tilting it down might hurt the hotshoe if repeated many times. Plus you can mount a trigger(if ever you will need) while you have that external monitor as you will be able to attach more.
Great tutorial for people who'd like to follow your footsteps in sharing their viewfinder content, which I always appreciate so much in your gear reviews! For Canon users there is a dirt cheap alternative though. An Android app CCC Pro (and a free version to try) connected via wifi or even a cable (USB-B to USB-C in my case) to a phone put on a cold shoe mount will cost less than A$15 and gives you a touchscreen with touch to focus even on old cameras like 7D2 and instant transfer of each photo taken to the phone. It was a game changer for me when I switched from M50 with touchscreen and WiFi to the 7D2...
@Duade Paton well you still can try with the free version of the app and just cable. I'm pretty sure it would even work on your 40D and if you had an app recording your screen (like for app tutrials), you could do that onto your phone storage. It would be limited to your phone screen resolution though.
I use a monitor because I do astrophotography and I need a larger image than what the lcd can provide. Mine is a 7" Raspberry Pi monitor, USB powered. I plug it into a power bank. For mounting it, I have it mounted to the tripod - I have a bicycle mount magnet for tablets and smartphones clamped onto the tripod, and I placed a neodymium plate on the back of the monitor. Holds it very snugly. I also have an 11" Raspberry Pi monitor for using when I'm tracking. Same mounting method, but I have to use a portable power station with standard electrical outlets to power it. I don't remember the brands of either monitor, but I spent well under $200 for both of them together.
Funny enough I have a friend who is an ex-videographer and he was getting rid of gear and he gave me a monitor ... I have no idea what brand it is or what it can do but I need to play around with it. I thought they were only useful for shooting videos and I know some UA-camrs such as yourself who use them to record the settings from the evf on their cameras. Now I've got a project for the weekend! 😁
Not gonna get this particular extra thing, but I found this video both interesting and informative none the less. Now to the essentials: I got a name for the Cockatiel softie (that I need to work on, since I've already forgotten it... not a name person, me) AND another new softie family member: a bin chicken! Got a name? It seems quite on top of the world, swinging its legs and waving its wings😄 About positions that'll wreak havoc on the old body: filming with the 7D & 7DII! Since the viewfinder turns black and they lack moveable lcd screen, one had to lift the camera so the screen is on eye level AND thrust the arms outwards until your eyesight is able to focus... No wonder my videos with those bodies were few and far between and also extremely shaky. Made my videos from Alaska to mainly slideshows, and the footage from St Paul island painful to watch. I SHOULD'VE bought another cheap videocam for that trip (that was back in June 2017)! (Or lugged a tripod around on the trip... which I didn't)
Thank you Duade. Very informative video. I can see that a monitor will not work well for birds in flight. What I use for birds in flight is a dot sight, which is, like the monitor, placed on the hot shoe of the camera. Advantage is you can easily use two eyes when using it. My hit rate improved substantially with It. I use the Olympus EE-1 dot sight on my OM-1 camera. Very easy to align with the camera without any tools. It uses a very small button cell battery and weights almost nothing. Jan.
Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always, I have a very nice monitor by Godox, it does not record but its very useful for those bright days 👍🐦🤗
Really interesting and informative Duade, thanks. Re handling the setup and back issues, have you tried using a monopod to support the rig rather than hand holding? It might reduce the tension in your arms and body and give some stability.
Great show, Duade. Thank you. I was hoping that these would work on my Canon 7d. But you mentioned that it would lower the fps. I'm not sure where to check that info, but I will try to find it. Thank you again. Your explanations, demonstrations, and information are great.
Recently I've started wearing glasses as my eyes are not what they once were and I can't use an EVF anymore. I think I'll be investing in a monitor. Thanks for the advice.
Great video. subbed. I do have a Ninja without the hard drive. Had it for a few months....need to set it up. That's garbage that you can't use touch screen. Looks like I'll be using it on my GH5 only. Your photos are BEAUTIFUL.
Hi nice post. I’m a wildflower photographer mostly shooting low to ground orchids, etc. I don’t have flippy screen so though monitor might be useful for me BUT I mostly shoot vertical portrait mode so not sure if I can. Tilt monitor 90 degrees rather than having to tilt my head to see monitor…not sure if I’ve explained clearly…thx Isaac
One question. Does it follow the orientation of the camera? If you do portrait shots(vertical orientation), will the liveview of the external monitor change to vertical also? And so with the picture taken in portrait(vertical) orientation)?
I could imagine the weight of all that extra mounted stuff on a camera, monitor, battery, etc, etc how to deal with all that weight, specially where I have seen so many videos that people complaint about how heavy some cameras are!
Thank you, interesting video! When you use the Ninja V just as a monitor try a V-mount batterie. If you attach it to the back of the camera (with for example a smallrig plate) it makes the camera way less frontheavy. You can even rest the whole system against the chest. Or you can put the v-mount in the pocket of your jacket. Then you save the weight of two batteries to carry. If the back still hurts, I do exercises by Liebscher und Bracht. 6 minutes a day.
I can see how a monitor with hard drive would be very useful for filming. For me as a stills shooter it's something I don't need. Still fun to learn about. I enjoyed the video. And BTW I noticed you were using to Ifootage Cobra monopod foot as a base for your camera. That is a great monopod. I use mine in the field all the time with a Wimberley MH-100 head. Excellent mobility and stability.
Wonderful content, thank you! Wondering if you have run into the situation I seem to be having. Running an Atomos Shinobi on an R5, most everything works fine, but the in camera level you can get by hitting the info button does not transfer to the external monitor. Could it be because it is an overlay on the screen? Wondering if you might have a work around. Thank you again! Keep up the great work. :)
G'day Neel, interesting, I suspect its just something that does not transfer over, the in camera Zebras often dont show as well. Sorry about that. Cheers, Duade
Are you able to do a tutorial on how you were able to get your Sony camera to push video to the external monitor in the camera settings? Im only able to get the external push while in video mode, but definitely want to experiment with recording video while shooting.
Hi..I love the small Tripod on the table..can you tell me the name of it please? Also I am so bummed that you cant use the back of the monitor when plugged into a external monitor. I have a new canon R8 and it does not have the toggle to move the autofocus points. I now have to use the focus button, hold it and move the camera to track the subject. Not so great on a tripod. Can't believe Canon would leave out this feature. Great video. thanks
Hi mate, love your videos. Two thoughts on this one though: 1. Agree on the bad choice of HDMI on the R5, but did you forget/not notice there is a small plastic frame/cage thing to thread through and reinforce? 2. I think, partially, the being able to tilt the screen thing is a weak pro - sans the monitor, we still have the flippy screen remember 😉
Thanks, yes, not sure I still have that attachment, I will have to pull it out and have a go. Yes, the flippy screen does work, On Canon its a bit weird at times out to the side but I have used it several times. Cheers, Duade
Have you thought about using an external EVF instead of a monitor? Same principle but it would let you keep the camera in position while allowing you to place the viewfinder anywhere. Typically they're crazy expensive, but Portkeys makes a decent one for around 400$ usd.
Great timing Duade, I’ve started looking into a monitor. I’ve been getting down and dirty on the local pond and these cold mornings are giving my neck grief! I’ll probably go with just a basic screen for now, I don’t have a need to record the screen. Nobody needs to see all my mistakes!!
Good luck Phil, they can come in useful that is for sure, I can relate re the sore neck. Cheers, Duade
Yes just note basic non record models are not bright enough outdoor use…
@@Duade
Hi so I was wondering if I can use my tv as a monitor?
You're always friendly, helpful, and informative Duade! UA-cam success couldn't happen to a nicer guy. Best of luck to you!
On a Nikon DSLR like my D850 I do this with an iPhone or iPad mini with the SnapBridge app, wirelessly transmitting using Live View and you have all controls for camera functionality.
Thank for your great video
Thanks for the information. I don’t plan on using a monitor anytime soon, but it is interesting to see how to add one and use it. Always appreciate you sharing your knowledge and experience.
Thanks Duade. I bought a Godox GM6S yesterday in Sydney. Using it with my Z9. Excellent. Also got the remote cable to access camera functions on monitor screen. Cheers.
Great video as always :) I use my monitor mostly for macro, it helps to set focus on small things in difficult places.
Duade I struggle a little with age-related eyesight on macros compared to years ago. The larger monitor would be perfect for this and flower shots too. Thanks and cheers.
Duade, a very interesting concept. I don't have one but your video suggests that they might be good when photographing birds or animals in the natural settings. I think the weight can be a problem for me as I have a similar back ache when handholding a large camera and lens. So, thank you for the inventive use of video gear for stills and capture the EVF actions.
Thanks Stuart, yes, they have a specific use case and I mainly use the EVF but have found it useful at times. My back really does play up when using it out in front though. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade Hi Duade it would be great to see a video on your thoughts on gear for the older birder ie those of us who have knee or hip problems making in harder to get down low or suffer from back pain or arthiritic shoulders, wrists etc. I also like to travel a lot in SE Asia but the Sony 200-600 is becoming too much to lug around (and disguise the weight of my carryon bag). Is the OM-1 and 100-400mm the answer?
8:42min best photo i ever saw from any wildlife channel. jesus the light!!! 😮😵✨✨✨
very little light on the bird...looks like a throwaway picture.
@@Matt90541 very little emotion. looks like a throwaway comment. 👎
@@cloudpandarism2627 I like this channel and Duade takes good photos, just looked like he wanted to give an example of taking photos low to the ground with an external monitor and showed a throwaway photo to illustrate that, just my opinion.
Thanks for mentioning the 3 point contact when using the EVF instead of the monitor or the LCD screen for that matter. It really helps to stabilize the camera.
Timely as always. Thanks. I’ve been seriously looking into getting a monitor. My original thoughts were to use it solely as a video monitor. Your discussion here just opened other doors to creativity in me. Cheers.
P.S. mind the back. I too sometimes struggle with similar challenges. Wear and tear of life I guess.
Thanks again! I just happen to have bought an external recording monitor for my OM-1 Mark II. I am just waiting on the proper hdmi cable to arrive. I am hoping it will help me with the bird videos that I shoot, but I see now from this video it can also be useful for stills. This was just what I needed to help me get started. - Mick Thompson, Seattle Washington.
Thanks Mick, glad it was helpful, have fun with it out there, Cheers, Duade
Having seen this video, I pulled the trigger for the Atomos Shinobi II and so far, I am quite happy with it. I would prefer to have the HDMI on the side of the monitor, but I‘ll get over it 🤓
Thanks Duade for the video. Beautiful shots of the Robin 😊 they’re not as stunning here in the UK but they still make a great image. I have been using the Atomos Shinobi monitor for a year or so on occasions on my R5 and R6 Mk2 which is great and just like your Ninja without the hard drive. Picked one up last year for £299. I use the big Anton Bauer battery on mine with the Manfrotto mini ball head. I used it the other day on a tripod to get some flight shots of birds coming onto the feeders. Gives more chance of catching the shot due to the peripheral vision you get as you say. Cheers 😊
Great video. Duade, thanks for doing this video explaining the pros and cons of field monitors and your choice specifically.
I’m Sony shooter and have consistently used the Ninja V monitor for over 3-years. Both my camera and the Ninja V are equipped with SmallRig cages. These cages secure the HDMI cable to both devices and prevents accidental damage from bumps. Additionally, my monitor is fitted with a SmallRig sunshield, which enhances contrast and color display.
Very useful that you take the time to talk through how the monitor works - thanks
Glad it was helpful!
Your videos are so easy to understand, thanks a bunch Duade 🙂 I use the Portkeys 6 and I have a harness on to carry the load on my shoulders via 2 straps either side of the camera and my lower back never has issues. I have never used the view finder to catch the birds in flight everything runs through the monitor.
I got a portkeys PT6 after Jan’s review and love it. Now I can sit comfortably when shooting images off of my ground pod.
Duade. I use a monitor with my R7. The camera LCD can be set to using your thumb on it to move the focal point around and it does appear moving on the monitor. I have the zone to be the right half of the LCD screen. Works slick. Check it out. You're so right on the advantages of a monitor. I love it for the low shots and it really helps with better composition.
Thanks for yet another excellent video. Brightness and angle of view are also important factors for outdoor use. Personally, I prefer brighter and larger monitors and I have a Desview R72 (7 inches, 2600 nits). My typical use case is when using a tripod with an inverted center column to have the camera at ground (or water) level, or any other situation where I can't use the viewfinder. In these situations, I usually attach the monitor to the tripod so that I can sit still behind the tripod while swinging the camera left and right.
The Bestview are quite good, considering it myself
Duade thanks for tips. I use the Feelworld Field Monitor on my Z7 for the purpose of videoing myself when public speaking. The monitor is facing me so that I can correctly set up the scene and then when recording I can make sure I am not stepping out of the frame by simply glancing over at the monitor screen. I have not yet used it for nature and wildlife shooting, but I can see a purpose for vlogging.
Thanks for this Duade, I have a DSLR so will have to do a bit more study. It certainly would be helpful when on the ground.
Good luck Lorraine, Cheers, Duade
You always make may day better and I'm a landscape photographer that still use DSLR
Best video so far... I've been searching for a video on this subject but to no avail. I would like to use a monitor for photography only. Using my iphone as a monitor creates some lag. Thanks for the video
Thanks for another great and really interesting video. To be honest it never entered my head that one of these might be a good idea - just thought it was something you needed to record EVF info and add to your videos. Of course now you've got me thinking - no need for me to record but maybe the Portkeys PT6 or similar and that Smallrig mount. I'm definitely getting to old for lying on the ground and straining my neck to look through a viewfinder! Really interesting to read other comments and see what equipment other members/subscribers are using. Thanks again. John
My pleasure John, yes, it is worth considering, I think some people also use their phones but takes some setting up to work properly. It is an option for when you are stationary that is for sure, just a bit difficult handheld etc. Cheers, Duade
Great video. Thanks. I got the PT6 last week after watching Jan’s video and so far it has worked OK. I’m still struggling with sun glare but it’s probably something I’m doing wrong. And like you, I suffer from the back, so it will be used on a tripod.
Interesting! When I have setup at water I naturally just want to use the back screen of my camera but I end up getting worried i'll miss the shot and end up looking down the viewfinder when the birds arrive. This video proves to me you don't have to be glued to the EVF, especially with the help of eye tracking makes it really easy to focus on framing the photo. P.S. those are my favourite scarlet robin photos that you have ever taken!
Thanks Kurtis, I must admit I do like looking down the EVF but the monitor does work well on a tripod at setups. Yes, very lucky to have the Scarlet visit. Cheers, Duade
Thank you very much for this video. I've considering getting a Ninja V for my OM-1 to show what's happening on my screen also, but the price kind of drives me away. The other uses you mention do add a fair amount to the balance though, and I might just pull the trigger on that purchase soon haha
Hi Duade. I have a Canon R7 and it has a Zebra setting and I can't imagine that the other EOS R models don't have this. I also use a Godox GM6S 5.5" 4K HDMI Ultra Bright on-camera monitor that has touch screen capabilities with an extra cable.
The Godox monitor itself also has a Zebra setting and much more!
I only use the monitor for filming in the field and photograph at setups with feed silo and specially placed branches and trunks, whether or not covered with moss.
I only photograph flying birds looking through the viewfinder, because an on-camera monitor is just as unsuitable for that as the screen on the back of your camera!
G'day Henk, I believe the zebras only work in video mode, not stills which I was referring too. I have yet to find a Canon body that allows zebras in stills which Sony, Olympus offer. I am happy to be corrected of course. Thanks for the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Nice video. I shoot mostly birds but use my Feelworld Monitor to eliminate a lot of duplicates and out of focus shots before loading them to my computer. Much easier than using the evf.
I used to use a tablet tethered to my old DSLR. It worked a treat. It was touch screen when the DSLR wasn't. Luckily there was an app that provided the functionality. The tablet was great when shooting stills, not action shots. I did a lot of astro at the time and it was easier to manually focus with the larger screen. I thought the articulating screen on my R6 would make a monitor redundant but it is still too small. So I'm pleased to see there is an option. Too bad it loses the touchscreen ability.
Take care of your back Duade! I have the same issue the right posture is everything these days. Look forward for more great content from you. Cheers.
Thanks mate, yes, I too have issues and try to avoid anything that may trigger it. Cheers, Duade
Another great video. Very informative. Thanks Duade
Hello, Brothwer. I*m from Norway , I use the Panasonic G9 camea, I like your all video's
Great to hear, Cheers, Duade
Very interesting commentary! I never considered using one, but you made some great points!
FYI, the NR in the new DxO PhotoLab 8 is *fantastic* for astro. Stunning. (For reference, in PL7 it sucked, in comparison to PL8.)
Thanks for sharing this Duade! Great video!
Very cool video, I learned something again, thanks for working with and behind the video and best regards from Münsterland / Germany Markus
Thanks for the informative video. My biggest concern is the ability to see the monitor on a bright sunny day. I find the Sony A7RIV and A7RV displays not bright enough to see detail, even in Sunny mode.
Good point David and I should have tested that but I cannot recall it ever being an issue but I often don't shoot in the middle of the day. I think you can get a hood for the monitor to help shield it from the sun. There are also brighter screens available. Cheers, Duade
I bought the Portkeys PT6 on Jan's advice in his video around 6 weeks ago but haven't used it yet. Won't get an opportunity for another 5 weeks as I've had abdominal surgery (hernia) and not allowed to lift (ruling out the R3 and 500f4 combination). Sucks to be me! It's already been 3 weeks without using the combination in anger, so 8 weeks...hell on Earth!!!
Sorry to hear that Dave, the only good thing is its winter at the moment which is often tough to shoot in. I wish you a speedy recovery. Cheers, Duade
Any more Olympus vids coming up soon? That's next on my list of camera gear to buy. I'd really like to see a comparison to the Cannon's for bird AI and how well it tracks targets.
Hi Riley, yes, I plan on doing that video later in the month early next month as I have the Nikon Z8 coming soon which I need to focus on first. The OM-1 is a brilliant camera and I look forward to doing some comparisons. Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade. Thanks for the useful information. Recording the EVF is obviously essential for you. Other than that, I think it’s worth considering simply using the articulated screen, which is smaller but keeps the touch-screen and other functionality.
Can you explain what you mean please?
@@wellsyboy He meant it's worth using the built-in screen on the camera rather than the viewfinder. However, I've found taking photos in sunlight very difficult, even while using the screen on the A7iii that I use (I don't use the viewfinder at all). So that's why I want an external display and how I ended up on this video 😅
Thank you for a very informative video on monitors. I've learned a lot! Thank you
Thanks Duade. I had never considered these before and now I know how they can be used. With a bad back and being used to my own routine I don't think it would work for me. Thanks very much for a well presented video.
My pleasure Geoff, good to know the options, Cheers, Duade
After having done a couple of hide shootings, combining my R5 with the Ninja V (had one laying around for videography anyways) and a solid cable shutter release helped a lot.
Great video! Thanks for the in-the-field insight.
Great video - thank you.
What's the advantage of the external monitor over the LCD on the back of the camera, apart from size of the screen?
My guess would be the ability to record the live view/EVF
It's really helping when you got situation in weird angle to shoot
@@amrizul You mean, angles that the LCD on the back can not easily be tilted to.
Or when it's perhaps inconvenient to flip out a fully articulating screen?
@@Mathieu_Matheow_Benoit But when you do not need recording, what advantages would it have over the LCD on the back of the camera besides size?
Brightness perhaps?
I don't know.
Hi Tim, the LCD works find the majority of the time, often its position can be a little arkward depending on brand. Canon is off to the side and tilted and I prefer the monitor on top looking at the subject, the size is also a bonus. But if the LCD works for you then no real need for a monitor. Cheers, Duade
I have been dabbling with an app called Monitor+ that converts my cellphone into a monitor. It works with both an HDMI cable (needs a converter) and a USB cable (also needs a cheap USB-A to USB-C adapter because the camera takes USB-micro). It's quirky and holding the phone in the correct position with the cheap accessories I use is a task but it gives me a larger screen than the rear LCD and a lot of monitor-like functionality. Plus it's cheaper!
Also there are OEM apps like Imaging Edge that are free.
I always wanted to try VR glasses with a HDMI input connected to my camera
Thanks!
Thanks for the support, I really appreciate it, Cheers, Duade
Great information. I’m in the process of going to using a Monitor.
I’m wondering if I’ll be able to balance my gimbal with a field monitor. I really hope so. I learned a lot from the video, but there’s so much to learn. Anyway, thanks.
Thanks!
Thanks Marisa, I appreciate it. Cheers, Duade 👍
Great video mate 👍
Thanks mate, I hope you are well, Cheers, Duade
Hi Duade, thanks again for a great video & info on the monitors.
I've mentioned to you earlier of my back issues & extensive surgery so your mentioning of your back issues helps me no end in this matter.
I don't recall you mentioning the visibility aspects of the monitor, I guess I'm not alone in having problems seeing the screens on my cameras in bright sunlight, I see some monitors come with a velcro shade which could be helpful.
I'm now about to see if a monitor is available to use on my 90D, although after watching your clips I think an R6 mkii is getting closer.
Thanks again mate, if you have any knowledge of the 90D + monitor it would be appreciated.
G'day George, I have not had any major issues in the sun but I rarely shoot after 9am and before 3pm so I have not fully tested it in full sunlight but as you say you can get a hood for it. 90D should work but I think the FPS will be restricted. I hope someone with a 90D can comment. Cheers, Duade
Another font of info, Duade - thanks for the insights on monitors! I appreciated your take on them & the many great shots you shared; some very nice Robin images. I think the one with the rain captured was probably my favorite. I can't see myself using a monitor due to my usual style of shooting & the extra weight & imbalance, but I can see how for some, they might be just the ticket. If I shot video with any regularity, I could surely see them being a benefit.
Thanks again for giving us more angles to consider in regards to our photography & may those Robins keep showing up near you for more opportunities! Best regards & good shooting ~ Chris
Thanks Chris, yes, very lucky to have those Robins here, so beautiful. Yes, If I wasn't filming I probably would not use the monitor all that often but I know some people may find them very useful. Cheers, Duade
You should get a cage like of SmallRig brand. Tilting it down might hurt the hotshoe if repeated many times. Plus you can mount a trigger(if ever you will need) while you have that external monitor as you will be able to attach more.
Thanks for that, I will look into it. Cheers, DUade
Great tutorial for people who'd like to follow your footsteps in sharing their viewfinder content, which I always appreciate so much in your gear reviews! For Canon users there is a dirt cheap alternative though. An Android app CCC Pro (and a free version to try) connected via wifi or even a cable (USB-B to USB-C in my case) to a phone put on a cold shoe mount will cost less than A$15 and gives you a touchscreen with touch to focus even on old cameras like 7D2 and instant transfer of each photo taken to the phone. It was a game changer for me when I switched from M50 with touchscreen and WiFi to the 7D2...
Thanks for that, I should have tried that option out, sounds like a much cheaper alternative. Cheers, Duade
@Duade Paton well you still can try with the free version of the app and just cable. I'm pretty sure it would even work on your 40D and if you had an app recording your screen (like for app tutrials), you could do that onto your phone storage. It would be limited to your phone screen resolution though.
For Sony I use the Monitor+ app
Outstanding Thank you.
My pleasure, Cheers, DUade
Very useful video Duade, thanks a lot!
I use a monitor because I do astrophotography and I need a larger image than what the lcd can provide. Mine is a 7" Raspberry Pi monitor, USB powered. I plug it into a power bank. For mounting it, I have it mounted to the tripod - I have a bicycle mount magnet for tablets and smartphones clamped onto the tripod, and I placed a neodymium plate on the back of the monitor. Holds it very snugly.
I also have an 11" Raspberry Pi monitor for using when I'm tracking. Same mounting method, but I have to use a portable power station with standard electrical outlets to power it.
I don't remember the brands of either monitor, but I spent well under $200 for both of them together.
Funny enough I have a friend who is an ex-videographer and he was getting rid of gear and he gave me a monitor ... I have no idea what brand it is or what it can do but I need to play around with it. I thought they were only useful for shooting videos and I know some UA-camrs such as yourself who use them to record the settings from the evf on their cameras. Now I've got a project for the weekend! 😁
Great to hear Joe, let me know how you go. Cheers, DUade
Not gonna get this particular extra thing, but I found this video both interesting and informative none the less.
Now to the essentials: I got a name for the Cockatiel softie (that I need to work on, since I've already forgotten it... not a name person, me) AND another new softie family member: a bin chicken! Got a name? It seems quite on top of the world, swinging its legs and waving its wings😄
About positions that'll wreak havoc on the old body: filming with the 7D & 7DII! Since the viewfinder turns black and they lack moveable lcd screen, one had to lift the camera so the screen is on eye level AND thrust the arms outwards until your eyesight is able to focus... No wonder my videos with those bodies were few and far between and also extremely shaky. Made my videos from Alaska to mainly slideshows, and the footage from St Paul island painful to watch. I SHOULD'VE bought another cheap videocam for that trip (that was back in June 2017)!
(Or lugged a tripod around on the trip... which I didn't)
Thanks, yes, the bin chicken is a great name and you will see why when you visit. Yes, the old LCD were hard to use, Cheers, Duade
Another very well explained vid keep up the good work
Thanks Harry, I appreciate the feedback, Cheers, Duade
Thank you Duade. Very informative video. I can see that a monitor will not work well for birds in flight. What I use for birds in flight is a dot sight, which is, like the monitor, placed on the hot shoe of the camera. Advantage is you can easily use two eyes when using it. My hit rate improved substantially with It. I use the Olympus EE-1 dot sight on my OM-1 camera. Very easy to align with the camera without any tools. It uses a very small button cell battery and weights almost nothing.
Jan.
Thanks for sharing another wonderful video like always, I have a very nice monitor by Godox, it does not record but its very useful for those bright days 👍🐦🤗
Thanks for sharing Miguel, great to hear it is working well, Cheers, Duade
Really interesting and informative Duade, thanks. Re handling the setup and back issues, have you tried using a monopod to support the rig rather than hand holding? It might reduce the tension in your arms and body and give some stability.
great video! ...and as far as I know, the Godox Monitor supports touch screen abilities!
Great show, Duade. Thank you.
I was hoping that these would work on my Canon 7d.
But you mentioned that it would lower the fps. I'm not sure where to check that info, but I will try to find it.
Thank you again. Your explanations, demonstrations, and information are great.
Perhaps some potential screen glare when using the monitor also.
Great video and great photography! Thank you 🙏🏼
Recently I've started wearing glasses as my eyes are not what they once were and I can't use an EVF anymore. I think I'll be investing in a monitor. Thanks for the advice.
Great video. subbed. I do have a Ninja without the hard drive. Had it for a few months....need to set it up. That's garbage that you can't use touch screen. Looks like I'll be using it on my GH5 only. Your photos are BEAUTIFUL.
Super! Beautifully presented. Thanks!
Hi nice post. I’m a wildflower photographer mostly shooting low to ground orchids, etc. I don’t have flippy screen so though monitor might be useful for me BUT I mostly shoot vertical portrait mode so not sure if I can. Tilt monitor 90 degrees rather than having to tilt my head to see monitor…not sure if I’ve explained clearly…thx Isaac
Great , thanks , just what I was looking for ... 👍
Very useful information. thanks
excellent video. as always, BTW. thank you sir! Happy birding to you!
Thank you kindly!
One question. Does it follow the orientation of the camera? If you do portrait shots(vertical orientation), will the liveview of the external monitor change to vertical also? And so with the picture taken in portrait(vertical) orientation)?
I could imagine the weight of all that extra mounted stuff on a camera, monitor, battery, etc, etc how to deal with all that weight, specially where I have seen so many videos that people complaint about how heavy some cameras are!
Outstanding and informative video. Thanks
Thank you, interesting video! When you use the Ninja V just as a monitor try a V-mount batterie. If you attach it to the back of the camera (with for example a smallrig plate) it makes the camera way less frontheavy. You can even rest the whole system against the chest. Or you can put the v-mount in the pocket of your jacket. Then you save the weight of two batteries to carry.
If the back still hurts, I do exercises by Liebscher und Bracht. 6 minutes a day.
Thank you. For explain and show how to connect the monitor to the camera
All others talk a lots of grab and talk too much.
I can see how a monitor with hard drive would be very useful for filming. For me as a stills shooter it's something I don't need. Still fun to learn about. I enjoyed the video. And BTW I noticed you were using to Ifootage Cobra monopod foot as a base for your camera. That is a great monopod. I use mine in the field all the time with a Wimberley MH-100 head. Excellent mobility and stability.
Thanks Jack, yes, a lovely monopod for sure, the small tripod is just fantastic. Cheers, Duade
Wonderful content, thank you! Wondering if you have run into the situation I seem to be having. Running an Atomos Shinobi on an R5, most everything works fine, but the in camera level you can get by hitting the info button does not transfer to the external monitor. Could it be because it is an overlay on the screen? Wondering if you might have a work around. Thank you again! Keep up the great work. :)
G'day Neel, interesting, I suspect its just something that does not transfer over, the in camera Zebras often dont show as well. Sorry about that. Cheers, Duade
Is a monitor appropriate for filming vertically? For example, for Tiktok, IG reels and such.
Are you able to do a tutorial on how you were able to get your Sony camera to push video to the external monitor in the camera settings?
Im only able to get the external push while in video mode, but definitely want to experiment with recording video while shooting.
thx Duade - how is the visibility in bright light - sunshine?
(COLIN it was, had to wind back. Let's see how long it stays in my memory... Colin the Cockatiel, it has some rhyme to it.)
Thanks, yes, Colin the Cockatiel, a very cute bird. Cheers, Duade
Great video as always
Hi..I love the small Tripod on the table..can you tell me the name of it please? Also I am so bummed that you cant use the back of the monitor when plugged into a external monitor. I have a new canon R8 and it does not have the toggle to move the autofocus points. I now have to use the focus button, hold it and move the camera to track the subject. Not so great on a tripod. Can't believe Canon would leave out this feature. Great video. thanks
What is the tripod you have on the video?
Great insight. Thank you.👍👍
Hi mate, love your videos. Two thoughts on this one though:
1. Agree on the bad choice of HDMI on the R5, but did you forget/not notice there is a small plastic frame/cage thing to thread through and reinforce?
2. I think, partially, the being able to tilt the screen thing is a weak pro - sans the monitor, we still have the flippy screen remember 😉
Thanks, yes, not sure I still have that attachment, I will have to pull it out and have a go. Yes, the flippy screen does work, On Canon its a bit weird at times out to the side but I have used it several times. Cheers, Duade
Doing bird in flight videos on DSLR is also a problem, using the viewfinder is so much easier. It would be my main reason to switch to mirrorless.
Have you thought about using an external EVF instead of a monitor? Same principle but it would let you keep the camera in position while allowing you to place the viewfinder anywhere. Typically they're crazy expensive, but Portkeys makes a decent one for around 400$ usd.
Thats interesting, I haven’t thought of a external evf, I’ll check it out. Thanks @Luis A
legend. always wondered about this.
How to explain the fact I can see the HDMI-Info on the external screen only for 1 second? Thank you for your video
Great information on the reason for external monitor. I am not a wildlife photography yet, so no need for a monitor at this time.
Yes, they can come in helpful at times, Cheers, Duade