Close range.. screen.. but i've not seen any reason here to use it for long range unless its really planned out.. and well that is what i shoot more with animals. Otherwise pretty smart.
@@Ramotttholl Aaaah, yes. Animals. I kinda forgot about that one. Can be tough to track them with the screen. I have done it, but depends on how fast they move. 😊
Still viewfinder the majority of the time for me. I can hold the camera much more still (No IBIS) and what you mention about bright sunlight. I actually love that it removes other visual distractions and helps me focus on the subject (both figuratively and literally) Prefer the LCD when I need situational awareness or like you said - angles that don't work with viewfinder or to be more discreet on the street.
Personally I am using a viewfinder most. But am using it, to get the odd angles when needed. Switching is quite easy. One thing which is not mentioned, especially true for DSLR, is battery life. On a hiking trip trough Bulgarian mountains I only used 1 battery to take over 2600 picture in 3 weeks time. So I had not to carry the weight of extra batteries or chargers with me through the mountains. I did get the result with minimizing screen usage. Always using viewfinder, and not looking back through the photo's
@@GerardJanGerritsen Good point, though I consider those more artificial challenges. Since we can get more batteries. Even power banks to charge. But for 3 weeks... Maybe. 😊
I use the viewfinder because looking on the lcd is usually not easy to do with (bright) sunlight plus when I use full manual exposure and or focus the viewfinder makes accurate manual focus and exposure the best. For viewing photos to someone i use the lcd. But for exposing and focus I prefer the viewfinder
I use both, but the viewfinder makes me feel more connected. Hard to explain. But use the screen a lot when shooting landscapes, because 99% of occasions the camera is on the tripod. I’ll try to use it more often though! 😊 Thanks!
SUPERB channel. I also bought your first course and highly recommend to everyone. Too many so called photographers create a channel out of boredom with no real or zero credentials. This channel is a gold mine. THANK YOU Mitch.
This reminds me when Olympus launched the first DSLR (Evolt E-330 - 2006) with "live-view"rear LCD and dpreview said it was "a solution looking for a problem"- and now every DSLR has it.
Excellent photos! I think when you are first starting out, it is good to use the viewfinder, it helps to train a person's eye to focus on what they wish to shoot. I liken it to blinders when training horses who are easily overwhelmed and distracted. However, once your eyes are well trained, then yes the screen is excellent. Once again love your work!
Those are some great points you made there. It’s true that people are much more aware of photography than earlier. Nowadays, millions of pictures are taken and posted every hour and snaps have different meanings nowadays. Great video!
Hi Similar to directors of Photography in the movies, I do use the viewfinder for the first approach on the composition and, also in quick shots (especially those when I am in movement, seated on car, trucks, buses etc). But, when I am using mono or tripods, the LCD screen is much more confortable to use. That's it. See ya, blue skies
I feel like I need a camera with an articulating touch screen now… you have created a really compelling aesthetic for people photography in the documentary genre. Wonderful!
Just came back from a trip to the Balkans to do travel photography for a client. Though it was great, I wish I watched this video beforehand :D Thanks for making this video! Even after watching all of your youtube videos and buying your course, I can't get enough of looking at your pictures. So authentic, inspiring, and beautiful!
If you don’t mind me asking, I’m curious what lens you have on your Sony in this video? …I’ve shot mirrorless for a long time as have always used the screen to be more discreet when necessary. It’s definitely helpful
Many rangefinder users claim that RF is superior to SLR/ DSLR because they can view more than 100% of the frame! Therefore, they can have more preparation in taking a shot, especially in taking street photography. Actually, viewing at a LCD screen, is like looking through a RF viewfinder! The screen is the frame and your eyes see beyond the frame! The difference is that viewing at a LCD screen, you can have a much bigger view than the restricted size of a RF viewfinder!
I do love fully articulated screen since it allows to compose the shot really in a creative and flexible way in most occasion. But the tilting one is best for shooting on the hips in street photography session
I used the EVF because I have it - while mine tilts up... I rarely use that. While LCD does the job as well, in some scenarios I prefer EVF. Not only for stability and removing distractions/sun light. It helps the subject find eyelevel makes more sense, it's also part of the angle I end up using. And the type of photography I do is different to what you are highlighting here. I am really tall, especially compared to the usual subjects I shoot. My photos are naturally from higher up and often I even extend my arm and take them from even higher up. I met a photographer once that was even a head taller than me. And the effect was even more clear, looking at thier results. I tend to shoot a lot of wide shots - and I do love to twist may camera which basically means I shoot blind, prefocus or just trust the AF, and time the movement by ending the exposure about straigh. Every single image is reframed, cropped and rotated in post anyway. And I hope to get even wider lenses soon. I never shot SLR or even DSLR. So I never had to remember equivalent exposures, set the ISO or use DoF preview buttons. What I see is what I get (usually), and I do use autoISO, EV dial and A/S modes. It works better.
One more advantage of the viewfinder is stability. There are three points of contact (your two hands and your face or nose) vs two (your two hands). With bigger lens or when shooting with marginal shutter speeds this is a real benefit.
I started using the back screen about 5 or 6 years ago. After years of using the viewfinder it took a bit of getting used to, especially when using flash (that slight delay is most vexing haha), but now I love it and hardly ever use the viewfinder anymore. And the articulating screen on my new camera (Canon R5) just makes it even more useful and amazing! Great vid bro, agree 100%
Main reason i don't use the viewfinder is because on the dslr i was not seeing the same with both eyes and i believe one degraded more because of the viewfinder. I was getting dizzy as well.
I will always love the good old viewfinder, I use both but it always feel good to zone out into the viewfinder. My knees definitely enjoy the articulating screen though.
@@SuperDraupnir I wear contacts. I need readings glasses for close vision. I do not need them for viewing through the viewfinder. So, LCD screen requires on and off with glasses constantly. Have you ever heard of this phenomenon.
I'm one of those who use the viewfinder all the time but it's an interesting coincidence that this video came up at a time when I'm planning to work with the screen on my upcoming trip and see how that works. I mostly shoot wildlife so I find the viewfinder quicker to work with when the animal is moving around but I also want to try and see if I can get better angles for relatively stationary creatures.
I am learning to love the screen also, sometimes more prone to camera shake but it’s a question of practice for me I think. I am certainly going to do more of it now
Thanks for the video. Have to admit your photos , portraits have that National Geographic look about them. Brilliant !!! The best I have seen for a while. Really capture the moment.
I do struggle with using the screen, but I can definitely see the advantages when trying for candid shots of my grandchildren, street photography, and travel photography. I have found using the viewfinder automatically attracts attention.
Great video. In my 20s and 30s I shot probably 80% of my photos with medium format cameras: my favorite being my Rolleiflex 2.8F. The "looking down" method is quite natural to me. In fact, two of my favorite mirrorless cameras are my Lumix GX8 and GX9. The flip-up EVF along with the screen offers a lot of flexibility and options beyond eye-level shooting. I wish more cameras had flip up EVFs. Also, in addition to the discretion offered by right angle viewing, I've always felt that raising the camera to the eye can be perceived as aggression by some and raises tension in the subject (even if they are cooperating).
I agree with your points. Since I switched to a mirrorless camera I have found the screen great for taking photos. The EVF is a higher quality picture so I still find it useful in bright light and when the scene is evenly lit so I can more easily pick out a detail through the EVF. I also use it for astro photography when I want to focus on a star accurately. It is very liberating not to have to be a contortionist or have to lie on the floor to get interesting angles for photos and especially for natural photos where the subjects don't know when you take the photos!
Thank you for this video! I tend to use the viewfinder when handholding my camera, but the LED screen when using a tripod. I have long admired your work. Now that I'm aware of this technique, I'm going to try it. I'm an amateur. This technique will make a difference in the quality of the street shots I take.
I have a Canon RP for two years and I may have used the flip screen a few times. I love the WYSIWYG EVF. But I will use flipped screen more now for candid shots of people. I agree with much of what you say. THANKS!
Okay.I really do not like the screen. I often find it impossible in bright light. Some of my older cameras, all Olympus Pen or OMD models do not have a movable screen. I am 85 and my eyes are not what they used to be. I have add on EVF and with the movable eye piece I can use it to look down even it the camera needs to be closer to my eye. Having said all hat I do occasionally attempt use the screen if that particular camera has a moveable one but usually go back to the view finder. I did enjoy your presentation.
Viewfinder only for stills, because it puts me "in" the scene, like an extension of my eye, while looking at the screen separates me from the scene. For video, I use the camera screen or additional monitor for obvious reasons. Having said that, when I had a medium format camera with focussing screen or used view cameras, the screen was the only option ... but that led to a different kind of photograph.
Having been using an SLR for 50+ years, it still feels much more natural and comfortable to use the viewfinder. However I agree with all that you said in the video and I do at times use the screen when it is advantageous to do so, particularly for low shots where it's getting too difficult to not be in a standing position. I also use a Panasonic compact and couldn't upgrade quick enough when they finally added a viewfinder.
@@mitchellkphotos in situations where to can’t react quickly enough to pre-position the camera it can help. I’ve encountered this in moving crowds , celebrations, etc...
Iam a hobbyist photographer using the screen over viewfinder is just amazing to compose your shot with the ISO control and Exposure value as under dark conditions the screen plays a great role obviously the viewfinder is just as natural as human eye...I personally don't use viewfinder always but for nice portrait shots then it's a yes !
Good video and like the thought behind it. I come from 1980's SLR film background and will primarily use the viewfinder. The LCD has it's uses especially with the Fuji XT2, the screen also flips out in portrait mode.
Great video Mitchell. Have always been a viewfinder man. but this tutorial has convinced me to use the screen. One question if I may please : I noticed that you do not have a camera strap. Is that by choice. I am 75 years old and my hands are not "as steady" as they used to be. I use a Sony a7ii (as you would know it has in built stabilisation) plus Sony OSS lens, so I would probably have a strap around my neck.
@@ninoxerri5462 do you mean use the screen? Of course you can. Maybe just not as far from the body as I do sometimes. Experimenting is always the way to go. 🙂
Hope you come out a video of camera settings on your Sony camera as I always miss the focus points when I use the screen,and thanks for upload the video just as I need it.
Fully agree, using the fully articulated monitor for stills is a strategic aset. Obviously it is not this OR that, but using both according to circunstances.
Hey Mitchell, I had just begun to use the screen not long before I saw this video. I use an X-T30 Fuji which does not have the most ergonomic positioning for clicking the shutter at the best of times. So much worse when you hold the camera low down. Being a “back button” focus guy this was made even worse until I changed things up. I now have a ‘back button” on the front (usually the DOF button) which I control with my second finger and operate the shutter with my thumb. It works out very well for my sized hands and I am beginning to see the many advantages. If I have the touch focus set on the back screen I am also able to get a much quicker shot in than using BBF. Thanks for your videos and courses. Great content to help me on my journey
For me the viewfinder helps minimize visual clutter and facilitate artistic framing, while providing extra stability to the camera. I also prefer the old-school charm of using the viewfinder on vintage-style digital cameras, as people think I'm using a film camera.
I was using the screen on my Sony A7RII and liked it. It did not articulate. I just bought the new Sony ZV E10 which does not have a view finder and am very happy with it. I agree the screen is the way to go. Would love to see a tutorial on the new camera including the set up for stills and video. Enjoy learning from you and your travels, Johnny
I use viewfinder on my film cameras and I really like using them. On digital never use viewfinder, only LCD. Using a viewfinder puts me in the analogue mood but on digital the articulating LCD is perfect.
I have an SLT so I have been using the screen since day 1. Also, my glasses are progressive so the viewfinder is a PITA. But sometimes it is needed so I'm glad that it's there.
You had great points. I use more often the viewfinder. 1st I really don’t get in the flow for pictures when I am using the screen. I use a Xpro1 and the screen is so so (as the viewfinder too but better). Maybe because I shoot primary analog the viewfinder is the only tool that I have. I understand your point because I love using my Rolleiflex. Shooting without looking ahead creates different look and reactions.
I noticed a lot of photogs using the back LCD more in this day and age and I wondered why. In the 25 years that I’ve been shooting, I preferred using a viewfinder. I always felt like I had more stability and control. That said, your arguments made a lot of sense, especially with a mirrorless system (which I just recently switched to from DSLR). You convinced me to work on my skills shooting with the back screen.
I agree with what you are saying ... but for the problem I have needing reading glass to see the screen. In the view finder I see sharp without glasses. Maybe a solution is to get a pair of half reading glass half plain glass? I do not need glasses on distances over 1,1 meter ...
Hi Mitchell! Thanks for reminding me what to do with the screen😆... Out of habit I use 90% the viewfinder. But in fact, you have the opportunity to capture authentic situations and you are quicker to react (after a little practice). I'll actually try to get used to this technique now. Thank you for the great tip and your valuable videos in general! 😊
I use a G9 with articulating screen. I feel it takes time to swivel out and rotate the this type of screen. Also it sticks out and doubles the size of the camera, makes it bulky. I would like to try a flip up screen. Otherwise screen is great with my kids for the reasons you mentioned .
Thanks for this video, it inspired me to start using the screen again! I mostly use the viewfinder because I use reading glasses (which I don't need with it ). I have my camera configured for back button focus and using it gives me the green dots showing the (continues) focus and tracking. If I use the screen however I don't have that, instead I get a rectangle (which also follows the focused point). Is there a way to also get the green dots using the screen? Perhaps it is a setting which I have done wrong. Do you have some tips on how to configure the optimal focus settings for use with the screen?
i guess i’m old school. i like to frame a shot with the viewfinder. my eyesight also is ‘t that great, so while i can compose a shot (when it’s not bright outside), i can’t tell if i’m in focus using the screen. one of my biggest gripes is that many of the newer cameras that don’t cost an arm and a leg don’t have viewfinders. i’m considering the sony a7c to replace my old bulky canon 60d, but i’m hesitating due to the tiny evf. the struggle is real. 😅
Great insight, how you use the screen for your photography!! I use the screen for 95% of my landscape photos, It forces me to slow down and to fine tune my composition. For portraits I always use the viewfinder, for the reasons you mentioned in this video. But I will try your advise for the street photography part on my next trip (to Jordan), great points how to get more natural looking images!!!
Glad you’re loving your Sony! It’s a great system. I’ve been really enjoying my Xpro3 because of the same reasons of the screen but also because it’s hidden. My documentary work is left unhindered because people assume it’s a film camera.
I love the flip screen on my fuji x100v for street photography, it changes the game. But of course, there is still something special about using the viewfinder. Indeed, when I have a camera in pocket with no viewfinder, just a screen, I end up disliking the experience overall. Like most things in my life, I swing both ways.
Great video. Subscribed. I tend to use range finders more and more which is optical. I did use my rx100 when in Indonesia this way and looking back I can see how many uninterrupted photos I did get. Thanks for sharing.
I actually prefer rotating screen over the flip one. The reason is simple, once I have camera in my backpack or on my shoulder, I don't worry that screen will get broken and once I'm taking photos, I just "open it". for the rest, thanks for useful tips again Mitchell!
I have used the screen occasionally, and your video has inspired me to experiment further. However, the majority of my photography involves birds and BIF, and I don’t see how a screen could be used to locate and track these subjects.
Screen all the way for me. I'm mostly video but even photos I've taken in the last while have 100% been in the screen. Your pictures are all so amazing also 👍
Thank you for making this video. I gravitate towards the EVF as it generally gives me a more intimate and more telling sense of the final image. I don't see much disadvantage of using it doing landscape work, other than the need to place the camera high or low. Furthermore using the LCD screen would require me to carry eyeglasses and/or switch between eyeglasses and sunglasses whereas the EVF diopter adjustment makes for greater vision clarity and convenience. All that said, your points are very well made, and I will endeavor to use that screen more frequently when possible.
Both the viewfinder and the screen have their place in the photographic process. Only using one or the other is putting limitations on creativity. The diopter in the viewfinder works best for me when I need to nail focus and to look at my composition without peripheral distraction that a screen produces. I can also pay more attention to my background with my viewfinder, more so than the screen. I also find that laying on the ground and getting dirty puts me in a more personal eye level position with my subject. If I use my articulating screen, I am distant and less likely to feel connection. The angle of view may be creative but the emotion is handicapped. Always there are exceptions and sometimes the angle of view that a screen offers is necessary.
Great Photos. I use my Fuji X-T3 screen especially for low positions. But using the screen while talking to people is a good idea. I am wearing glasses and when looking through te viewfinder I always remove my glasses, while using the screen I can just keep my glasses on.....so that is an advantage too. Thanks for the great video. Frank
Waaay back I had a canon, early digital, with a flip out screen - I used the screen constantly and LOVED the 'low at the waist' shoot angle. The camera got old, I went back to the Pentax dslr BUT have ever since hankered after a flip screen. Soon will be purchasing a compact camera for everyday carry and one of the "MUST HAVES" is ... a flip out screen. So I completely agree with your thesis.
I can see the merits of the screen but in real life, I still find it so damn hard to adapt to it that I keep coming back to the viewfinder over and over. I could cite brightness as well as stability but I think what still makes a difference to me is that there's a subjective experience of feeling more one with the camera. It is as though I were able to think and react faster when I have it stuck to my eye, as if it magnified reality. In any case, the great thing is that both methods are there to our disposal. The ability to go have both and use them depending on each situation is a huge addition to our tools.
My favorite LCD screen was the design that Fujifilm used from some of their cameras - a two axis tilt screen. I miss that design but video ruling the LCD design more than photography it seems. At least Fuji has the GFX line with the two axis tilt screen if I ever decide to go back to Fuji. I have been using mirrorless cameras since 2015 so I have gotten used to using what is most comfortable for the task at hand. Having both options are great; however, some of my cameras have the 9.44 million dots EVF and it is just sheer fun to use those EVFs. :D
Using the rear screen makes a lot of sense for candid people photos. I don't do many people photos so I'm still mostly using the EVF. Big reasons are, because of my glasses and state of my eyes, it's much easier to frame the photo with the EVF and see that everything is framed well and the exposure is close to what I want. I do use the rear screen more for video or tripod use where I have more time to check the image on the rear screen.
@@mitchellkphotos My prescription is such that I can't see anything very clearly until the object is about 2 feet away from my face (I decided against bifocals), so for me it's easier to use the EVF. I can see everything very clearly and just confirm the exposure and framing better.
Depends on what I'm doing. Portraits and so forth I use the viewfinder because i can focus on details more. But, i use the back screen alot Yes, i commented early
Yet another great video. I use both the viewfinder and the screen. It very much depends on what I'm photographing. I mainly do wildlife and for that, I mainly use the viewfinder, if I do macro or landscape I often use the sceen
AGREE with what U have said for portrait photo and family & friends ocations photos U need to use the eyes viewfinder but street photo of some emotions people it's best to use the screen for candid shot and if the camera has OIS then U can use the screen in those cases
Most time I use the viewfinder. Photos are more presize and quality while looking at my subject is much better than the display. But there are also situations where I use the display.
You are absolutely right, for the kind of photography, back tilting screen is perfect. I am really sorry that my Panasonic S9 has only a primitive left protruding screen which in itself makes the camera twice as wide and catches attention. The most recent Panasonic camera, the GH7 has dual hinged screen, this should be the standard on all camera above $1000
Thank you so much for this tip, which is very useful for me, as I have struggled with getting sharp pictures, especially when trying my hand a macro photography :o)
I have used the screen but only when it was the only way to get the shot. I plan now to try some experimenting with the screen and will be curious to see how necessary my reading glasses will or won't be. I don't wear them all the time and find them a bit of an encumbrance especially with plain lens sunglasses. Thanks for the points you made I hadn't thought of and driving me to try something relatively new!
Since 2016 I've been using my camera's articulating screen while doing street photography, particularly in situations where one needs to be stealthy. I use it even in harsh lights (harsh light isn't that unwelcomed in this genre) and use my own shadow to block the light.
I have an older DSLR that doesn't have a flip out screen; however, I just pickup a waist level finder for my F3. I'm hoping to get a mirrorless Body later this year and would definitely use both the viewfinder and screen.
Thank you for the video, Mitchell, that was more interesting then I thought. Ill maybe try it when I get around to it. The thing though that you forgot to mention in the video is that using the screen is really most beneficial when youre photographing people and its not a "straigt portrait" shot. I rarely if ever do photos like this though, mostly landscape, cars and architecture or straight portraits. So theres no need for me to look unsuspicious :)
I use both the monitor and the viewfinder of my camera in my own way. I'm a portrait photographer. If I need to focus much more clearly on the subject, I use the viewfinder. ♡!
@@mitchellkphotos My best lenses are Manual Lenses, Dear Sir. So, there is no autofocus, and I need to rely on my viewfinder more when using those lenses. I love your Photos and your work, Sir. You are living the adventure. We are always be your fans. ♡!
@@mitchellkphotos I can adjust the viewfinder on my Fuji x-t2, but with the screen I have were glasses. Sorry I use Capture One and not Lightroom for your course.
So after watching the video, what do you think? Viewfinder? Screen? Why? 😊
Close range.. screen.. but i've not seen any reason here to use it for long range unless its really planned out.. and well that is what i shoot more with animals.
Otherwise pretty smart.
@@Ramotttholl Aaaah, yes. Animals. I kinda forgot about that one. Can be tough to track them with the screen. I have done it, but depends on how fast they move. 😊
Still viewfinder the majority of the time for me. I can hold the camera much more still (No IBIS) and what you mention about bright sunlight. I actually love that it removes other visual distractions and helps me focus on the subject (both figuratively and literally)
Prefer the LCD when I need situational awareness or like you said - angles that don't work with viewfinder or to be more discreet on the street.
Personally I am using a viewfinder most. But am using it, to get the odd angles when needed. Switching is quite easy.
One thing which is not mentioned, especially true for DSLR, is battery life. On a hiking trip trough Bulgarian mountains I only used 1 battery to take over 2600 picture in 3 weeks time. So I had not to carry the weight of extra batteries or chargers with me through the mountains. I did get the result with minimizing screen usage. Always using viewfinder, and not looking back through the photo's
@@GerardJanGerritsen Good point, though I consider those more artificial challenges. Since we can get more batteries. Even power banks to charge. But for 3 weeks... Maybe. 😊
I use the viewfinder because looking on the lcd is usually not easy to do with (bright) sunlight plus when I use full manual exposure and or focus the viewfinder makes accurate manual focus and exposure the best. For viewing photos to someone i use the lcd. But for exposing and focus I prefer the viewfinder
I use both, but the viewfinder makes me feel more connected. Hard to explain. But use the screen a lot when shooting landscapes, because 99% of occasions the camera is on the tripod. I’ll try to use it more often though! 😊 Thanks!
How have I gone my whole life not knowing you work! Absolutely stunning!!!
😂Thank you.
SUPERB channel. I also bought your first course and highly recommend to everyone. Too many so called photographers create a channel out of boredom with no real or zero credentials. This channel is a gold mine. THANK YOU Mitch.
Thanks so much. I appreciate it.
This reminds me when Olympus launched the first DSLR (Evolt E-330 - 2006) with "live-view"rear LCD and dpreview said it was "a solution looking for a problem"- and now every DSLR has it.
Excellent photos! I think when you are first starting out, it is good to use the viewfinder, it helps to train a person's eye to focus on what they wish to shoot. I liken it to blinders when training horses who are easily overwhelmed and distracted. However, once your eyes are well trained, then yes the screen is excellent. Once again love your work!
That's a GOOD point!
Glad you feel better. Excellent suggestion. Done. I’m trying this today!
Great to hear 😮
Those are some great points you made there. It’s true that people are much more aware of photography than earlier. Nowadays, millions of pictures are taken and posted every hour and snaps have different meanings nowadays.
Great video!
Yeh. Picture overload. 😬
I always enjoy your videos and presentation. Story telling with beautiful and interesting images.
Hi
Similar to directors of Photography in the movies, I do use the viewfinder for the first approach on the composition and, also in quick shots (especially those when I am in movement, seated on car, trucks, buses etc).
But, when I am using mono or tripods, the LCD screen is much more confortable to use.
That's it. See ya, blue skies
I feel like I need a camera with an articulating touch screen now… you have created a really compelling aesthetic for people photography in the documentary genre. Wonderful!
Just came back from a trip to the Balkans to do travel photography for a client. Though it was great, I wish I watched this video beforehand :D Thanks for making this video! Even after watching all of your youtube videos and buying your course, I can't get enough of looking at your pictures. So authentic, inspiring, and beautiful!
Thanks so much!
If you don’t mind me asking, I’m curious what lens you have on your Sony in this video? …I’ve shot mirrorless for a long time as have always used the screen to be more discreet when necessary. It’s definitely helpful
Tamron 17-28 f2.8
Many rangefinder users claim that RF is superior to SLR/ DSLR because they can view more than 100% of the frame! Therefore, they can have more preparation in taking a shot, especially in taking street photography. Actually, viewing at a LCD screen, is like looking through a RF viewfinder! The screen is the frame and your eyes see beyond the frame! The difference is that viewing at a LCD screen, you can have a much bigger view than the restricted size of a RF viewfinder!
I do love fully articulated screen since it allows to compose the shot really in a creative and flexible way in most occasion. But the tilting one is best for shooting on the hips in street photography session
Agreed!
Really well made video! I never have watched your video's before but this is so good! Keep rocking.
Thank you!
Yes since 2006 and I will use the viewfinder forever
I used the EVF because I have it - while mine tilts up... I rarely use that. While LCD does the job as well, in some scenarios I prefer EVF. Not only for stability and removing distractions/sun light. It helps the subject find eyelevel makes more sense, it's also part of the angle I end up using. And the type of photography I do is different to what you are highlighting here.
I am really tall, especially compared to the usual subjects I shoot. My photos are naturally from higher up and often I even extend my arm and take them from even higher up. I met a photographer once that was even a head taller than me. And the effect was even more clear, looking at thier results.
I tend to shoot a lot of wide shots - and I do love to twist may camera which basically means I shoot blind, prefocus or just trust the AF, and time the movement by ending the exposure about straigh. Every single image is reframed, cropped and rotated in post anyway. And I hope to get even wider lenses soon.
I never shot SLR or even DSLR. So I never had to remember equivalent exposures, set the ISO or use DoF preview buttons. What I see is what I get (usually), and I do use autoISO, EV dial and A/S modes. It works better.
One more advantage of the viewfinder is stability. There are three points of contact (your two hands and your face or nose) vs two (your two hands). With bigger lens or when shooting with marginal shutter speeds this is a real benefit.
I started using the back screen about 5 or 6 years ago. After years of using the viewfinder it took a bit of getting used to, especially when using flash (that slight delay is most vexing haha), but now I love it and hardly ever use the viewfinder anymore. And the articulating screen on my new camera (Canon R5) just makes it even more useful and amazing! Great vid bro, agree 100%
Main reason i don't use the viewfinder is because on the dslr i was not seeing the same with both eyes and i believe one degraded more because of the viewfinder. I was getting dizzy as well.
I will always love the good old viewfinder, I use both but it always feel good to zone out into the viewfinder. My knees definitely enjoy the articulating screen though.
Wait till you age and require reading glasses, then only you will realize the need for view finder with diopter adjustment.
Heard about glasses?
@@SuperDraupnir I wear contacts. I need readings glasses for close vision. I do not need them for viewing through the viewfinder. So, LCD screen requires on and off with glasses constantly.
Have you ever heard of this phenomenon.
I'm one of those who use the viewfinder all the time but it's an interesting coincidence that this video came up at a time when I'm planning to work with the screen on my upcoming trip and see how that works. I mostly shoot wildlife so I find the viewfinder quicker to work with when the animal is moving around but I also want to try and see if I can get better angles for relatively stationary creatures.
I am learning to love the screen also, sometimes more prone to camera shake but it’s a question of practice for me I think. I am certainly going to do more of it now
Thanks for the video. Have to admit your photos , portraits have that National Geographic look about them. Brilliant !!! The best I have seen for a while. Really capture the moment.
I do struggle with using the screen, but I can definitely see the advantages when trying for candid shots of my grandchildren, street photography, and travel photography. I have found using the viewfinder automatically attracts attention.
using the viewfinder for me is like putting something together and then turning it on for the first time to see if it works.
I use both b/c using both makes the most sense. I'm not sure these feature are pitted against one a other. They're complimentary.
Great video. In my 20s and 30s I shot probably 80% of my photos with medium format cameras: my favorite being my Rolleiflex 2.8F. The "looking down" method is quite natural to me.
In fact, two of my favorite mirrorless cameras are my Lumix GX8 and GX9. The flip-up EVF along with the screen offers a lot of flexibility and options beyond eye-level shooting. I wish more cameras had flip up EVFs.
Also, in addition to the discretion offered by right angle viewing, I've always felt that raising the camera to the eye can be perceived as aggression by some and raises tension in the subject (even if they are cooperating).
The nuances you're mentioning can only be truly understood by others who used that gear. 😊 YES to the articulating viewfinder!!! Thanks for watching.
Both , i like both,& need both.
I agree with your points. Since I switched to a mirrorless camera I have found the screen great for taking photos. The EVF is a higher quality picture so I still find it useful in bright light and when the scene is evenly lit so I can more easily pick out a detail through the EVF. I also use it for astro photography when I want to focus on a star accurately. It is very liberating not to have to be a contortionist or have to lie on the floor to get interesting angles for photos and especially for natural photos where the subjects don't know when you take the photos!
Thank you for this video! I tend to use the viewfinder when handholding my camera, but the LED screen when using a tripod. I have long admired your work. Now that I'm aware of this technique, I'm going to try it. I'm an amateur. This technique will make a difference in the quality of the street shots I take.
Thank you. 😁
I have a Canon RP for two years and I may have used the flip screen a few times. I love the WYSIWYG EVF. But I will use flipped screen more now for candid shots of people. I agree with much of what you say. THANKS!
Okay.I really do not like the screen. I often find it impossible in bright light. Some of my older cameras, all Olympus Pen or OMD models do not have a movable screen. I am 85 and my eyes are not what they used to be. I have add on EVF and with the movable eye piece I can use it to look down even it the camera needs to be closer to my eye. Having said all hat I do occasionally attempt use the screen if that particular camera has a moveable one but usually go back to the view finder. I did enjoy your presentation.
Viewfinder only for stills, because it puts me "in" the scene, like an extension of my eye, while looking at the screen separates me from the scene. For video, I use the camera screen or additional monitor for obvious reasons. Having said that, when I had a medium format camera with focussing screen or used view cameras, the screen was the only option ... but that led to a different kind of photograph.
Having been using an SLR for 50+ years, it still feels much more natural and comfortable to use the viewfinder. However I agree with all that you said in the video and I do at times use the screen when it is advantageous to do so, particularly for low shots where it's getting too difficult to not be in a standing position. I also use a Panasonic compact and couldn't upgrade quick enough when they finally added a viewfinder.
I think it really helps to understand what your lens “sees” via practicing in static situations so shooting from the hip is more accurate.
You'll definitely get better, but what's the point when there's a screen?
@@mitchellkphotos in situations where to can’t react quickly enough to pre-position the camera it can help. I’ve encountered this in moving crowds , celebrations, etc...
Iam a hobbyist photographer using the screen over viewfinder is just amazing to compose your shot with the ISO control and Exposure value as under dark conditions the screen plays a great role obviously the viewfinder is just as natural as human eye...I personally don't use viewfinder always but for nice portrait shots then it's a yes !
Good video and like the thought behind it. I come from 1980's SLR film background and will primarily use the viewfinder. The LCD has it's uses especially with the Fuji XT2, the screen also flips out in portrait mode.
I am glad that i came across your channel. thank for the video.
Great video Mitchell. Have always been a viewfinder man. but this tutorial has convinced me to use the screen. One question if I may please : I noticed that you do not have a camera strap. Is that by choice. I am 75 years old and my hands are not "as steady" as they used to be. I use a Sony a7ii (as you would know it has in built stabilisation) plus Sony OSS lens, so I would probably have a strap around my neck.
Hey. I hate the strap. Always gets in the way. I have a wrist strap. That's really nice.
@@mitchellkphotos But does that mean that I cannot use it?
@@ninoxerri5462 do you mean use the screen? Of course you can. Maybe just not as far from the body as I do sometimes. Experimenting is always the way to go. 🙂
Excellent points. I use the screen in landscape photography but I’ll have to try it with people.
Thanks intersting video and great photos of people!
After 40 years of using viewfinders i am now on the way to use more and more the disply.
Hope you come out a video of camera settings on your Sony camera as I always miss the focus points when I use the screen,and thanks for upload the video just as I need it.
Fully agree, using the fully articulated monitor for stills is a strategic aset.
Obviously it is not this OR that, but using both according to circunstances.
Hey Mitchell, I had just begun to use the screen not long before I saw this video. I use an X-T30 Fuji which does not have the most ergonomic positioning for clicking the shutter at the best of times. So much worse when you hold the camera low down. Being a “back button” focus guy this was made even worse until I changed things up. I now have a ‘back button” on the front (usually the DOF button) which I control with my second finger and operate the shutter with my thumb. It works out very well for my sized hands and I am beginning to see the many advantages. If I have the touch focus set on the back screen I am also able to get a much quicker shot in than using BBF.
Thanks for your videos and courses. Great content to help me on my journey
For me the viewfinder helps minimize visual clutter and facilitate artistic framing, while providing extra stability to the camera. I also prefer the old-school charm of using the viewfinder on vintage-style digital cameras, as people think I'm using a film camera.
Though I am not into nostalgia, I get what you mean.
I was using the screen on my Sony A7RII and liked it. It did not articulate. I just bought the new Sony ZV E10 which does not have a view finder and am very happy with it. I agree the screen is the way to go. Would love to see a tutorial on the new camera including the set up for stills and video. Enjoy learning from you and your travels, Johnny
I use viewfinder on my film cameras and I really like using them. On digital never use viewfinder, only LCD. Using a viewfinder puts me in the analogue mood but on digital the articulating LCD is perfect.
Makes sense.
I have an SLT so I have been using the screen since day 1. Also, my glasses are progressive so the viewfinder is a PITA. But sometimes it is needed so I'm glad that it's there.
You had great points. I use more often the viewfinder. 1st I really don’t get in the flow for pictures when I am using the screen. I use a Xpro1 and the screen is so so (as the viewfinder too but better). Maybe because I shoot primary analog the viewfinder is the only tool that I have. I understand your point because I love using my Rolleiflex. Shooting without looking ahead creates different look and reactions.
I noticed a lot of photogs using the back LCD more in this day and age and I wondered why. In the 25 years that I’ve been shooting, I preferred using a viewfinder. I always felt like I had more stability and control. That said, your arguments made a lot of sense, especially with a mirrorless system (which I just recently switched to from DSLR). You convinced me to work on my skills shooting with the back screen.
I agree with what you are saying ... but for the problem I have needing reading glass to see the screen. In the view finder I see sharp without glasses. Maybe a solution is to get a pair of half reading glass half plain glass? I do not need glasses on distances over 1,1 meter ...
I use my Fujifilm XT3 screen in this manner all the time. Great video, Mitchell!
Awesome. 🙂
Hi Mitchell! Thanks for reminding me what to do with the screen😆... Out of habit I use 90% the viewfinder. But in fact, you have the opportunity to capture authentic situations and you are quicker to react (after a little practice). I'll actually try to get used to this technique now. Thank you for the great tip and your valuable videos in general! 😊
When I read the title I was like "what's he on about", but you made some good points!
Haha
YES ! I do most of my photography with manual focus.
I use a G9 with articulating screen. I feel it takes time to swivel out and rotate the this type of screen. Also it sticks out and doubles the size of the camera, makes it bulky. I would like to try a flip up screen.
Otherwise screen is great with my kids for the reasons you mentioned .
You are right! Using the screen makes like easier. I liked this video's content, sound editing, and lots of beautiful shots.
Thanks for this video, it inspired me to start using the screen again! I mostly use the viewfinder because I use reading glasses (which I don't need with it ). I have my camera configured for back button focus and using it gives me the green dots showing the (continues) focus and tracking. If I use the screen however I don't have that, instead I get a rectangle (which also follows the focused point). Is there a way to also get the green dots using the screen? Perhaps it is a setting which I have done wrong. Do you have some tips on how to configure the optimal focus settings for use with the screen?
Sorry forgot to mention I'm using a Sony A7 III
i guess i’m old school. i like to frame a shot with the viewfinder. my eyesight also is ‘t that great, so while i can compose a shot (when it’s not bright outside), i can’t tell if i’m in focus using the screen. one of my biggest gripes is that many of the newer cameras that don’t cost an arm and a leg don’t have viewfinders. i’m considering the sony a7c to replace my old bulky canon 60d, but i’m hesitating due to the tiny evf. the struggle is real. 😅
Great insight, how you use the screen for your photography!! I use the screen for 95% of my landscape photos, It forces me to slow down and to fine tune my composition. For portraits I always use the viewfinder, for the reasons you mentioned in this video. But I will try your advise for the street photography part on my next trip (to Jordan), great points how to get more natural looking images!!!
Thanks for watching. 🙂
Glad you’re loving your Sony! It’s a great system. I’ve been really enjoying my Xpro3 because of the same reasons of the screen but also because it’s hidden. My documentary work is left unhindered because people assume it’s a film camera.
I love the flip screen on my fuji x100v for street photography, it changes the game. But of course, there is still something special about using the viewfinder. Indeed, when I have a camera in pocket with no viewfinder, just a screen, I end up disliking the experience overall. Like most things in my life, I swing both ways.
Haha. Hey whatever works. 🙂
@@mitchellkphotos ;-)
Great video. Subscribed. I tend to use range finders more and more which is optical. I did use my rx100 when in Indonesia this way and looking back I can see how many uninterrupted photos I did get. Thanks for sharing.
I actually prefer rotating screen over the flip one. The reason is simple, once I have camera in my backpack or on my shoulder, I don't worry that screen will get broken and once I'm taking photos, I just "open it". for the rest, thanks for useful tips again Mitchell!
I have used the screen occasionally, and your video has inspired me to experiment further. However, the majority of my photography involves birds and BIF, and I don’t see how a screen could be used to locate and track these subjects.
Hey, thank you for watching. Really depends what lens you're using. If it's a very long one, it becomes hard to track.
Screen all the way for me. I'm mostly video but even photos I've taken in the last while have 100% been in the screen.
Your pictures are all so amazing also 👍
Thank you for making this video. I gravitate towards the EVF as it generally gives me a more intimate and more telling sense of the final image. I don't see much disadvantage of using it doing landscape work, other than the need to place the camera high or low. Furthermore using the LCD screen would require me to carry eyeglasses and/or switch between eyeglasses and sunglasses whereas the EVF diopter adjustment makes for greater vision clarity and convenience. All that said, your points are very well made, and I will endeavor to use that screen more frequently when possible.
Both the viewfinder and the screen have their place in the photographic process. Only using one or the other is putting limitations on creativity. The diopter in the viewfinder works best for me when I need to nail focus and to look at my composition without peripheral distraction that a screen produces. I can also pay more attention to my background with my viewfinder, more so than the screen. I also find that laying on the ground and getting dirty puts me in a more personal eye level position with my subject. If I use my articulating screen, I am distant and less likely to feel connection. The angle of view may be creative but the emotion is handicapped. Always there are exceptions and sometimes the angle of view that a screen offers is necessary.
Even though I disagree with what you say, I like it. It makes sense. 😊
Great Photos. I use my Fuji X-T3 screen especially for low positions. But using the screen while talking to people is a good idea. I am wearing glasses and when looking through te viewfinder I always remove my glasses, while using the screen I can just keep my glasses on.....so that is an advantage too. Thanks for the great video.
Frank
Waaay back I had a canon, early digital, with a flip out screen - I used the screen constantly and LOVED the 'low at the waist' shoot angle. The camera got old, I went back to the Pentax dslr BUT have ever since hankered after a flip screen. Soon will be purchasing a compact camera for everyday carry and one of the "MUST HAVES" is ... a flip out screen. So I completely agree with your thesis.
I can see the merits of the screen but in real life, I still find it so damn hard to adapt to it that I keep coming back to the viewfinder over and over. I could cite brightness as well as stability but I think what still makes a difference to me is that there's a subjective experience of feeling more one with the camera. It is as though I were able to think and react faster when I have it stuck to my eye, as if it magnified reality. In any case, the great thing is that both methods are there to our disposal. The ability to go have both and use them depending on each situation is a huge addition to our tools.
You are just being a contrarian. 😝
Master class as always ❤
Haha. Glad you found it useful.
Battery life?
Stability of the shots?
Helps to improve composition?
Better on bright light situations?
My favorite LCD screen was the design that Fujifilm used from some of their cameras - a two axis tilt screen. I miss that design but video ruling the LCD design more than photography it seems. At least Fuji has the GFX line with the two axis tilt screen if I ever decide to go back to Fuji. I have been using mirrorless cameras since 2015 so I have gotten used to using what is most comfortable for the task at hand.
Having both options are great; however, some of my cameras have the 9.44 million dots EVF and it is just sheer fun to use those EVFs. :D
I like the canon screens the most. They go in every direction. I find some other brand screens extremely limiting
100% agree with this
Using the rear screen makes a lot of sense for candid people photos. I don't do many people photos so I'm still mostly using the EVF. Big reasons are, because of my glasses and state of my eyes, it's much easier to frame the photo with the EVF and see that everything is framed well and the exposure is close to what I want. I do use the rear screen more for video or tripod use where I have more time to check the image on the rear screen.
I thought it would be easier to use the screen with glasses, no?
@@mitchellkphotos My prescription is such that I can't see anything very clearly until the object is about 2 feet away from my face (I decided against bifocals), so for me it's easier to use the EVF. I can see everything very clearly and just confirm the exposure and framing better.
Depends on what I'm doing.
Portraits and so forth I use the viewfinder because i can focus on details more.
But, i use the back screen alot
Yes, i commented early
Yet another great video. I use both the viewfinder and the screen. It very much depends on what I'm photographing. I mainly do wildlife and for that, I mainly use the viewfinder, if I do macro or landscape I often use the sceen
AGREE with what U have said for portrait photo and family & friends ocations photos U need to use the eyes viewfinder but street photo of some emotions people it's best to use the screen for candid shot and if the camera has OIS then U can use the screen in those cases
Brilliant advice. I will try this for candid shots
Most time I use the viewfinder. Photos are more presize and quality while looking at my subject is much better than the display. But there are also situations where I use the display.
You are absolutely right, for the kind of photography, back tilting screen is perfect. I am really sorry that my Panasonic S9 has only a primitive left protruding screen which in itself makes the camera twice as wide and catches attention. The most recent Panasonic camera, the GH7 has dual hinged screen, this should be the standard on all camera above $1000
Thank you so much for this tip, which is very useful for me, as I have struggled with getting sharp pictures, especially when trying my hand a macro photography :o)
I have used the screen but only when it was the only way to get the shot. I plan now to try some experimenting with the screen and will be curious to see how necessary my reading glasses will or won't be. I don't wear them all the time and find them a bit of an encumbrance especially with plain lens sunglasses. Thanks for the points you made I hadn't thought of and driving me to try something relatively new!
Always happy to get people to try something new. 😁
Yes. Still using. Especially when it s too sunny outside.
I’m a wedding photographer and I’m disabled using the screen is a life saver
Great information. I will get out of my comfort zone and give it a shot.
Since 2016 I've been using my camera's articulating screen while doing street photography, particularly in situations where one needs to be stealthy. I use it even in harsh lights (harsh light isn't that unwelcomed in this genre) and use my own shadow to block the light.
I have an older DSLR that doesn't have a flip out screen; however, I just pickup a waist level finder for my F3. I'm hoping to get a mirrorless Body later this year and would definitely use both the viewfinder and screen.
Nice haircut my friend 😘😘😘 Great video by the way.
Wahaha! Thank you.
@@mitchellkphotos It seems you are unwell and recovered from illness. Take care of yourself my friend.
Thank you for the video, Mitchell, that was more interesting then I thought. Ill maybe try it when I get around to it.
The thing though that you forgot to mention in the video is that using the screen is really most beneficial when youre photographing people and its not a "straigt portrait" shot. I rarely if ever do photos like this though, mostly landscape, cars and architecture or straight portraits. So theres no need for me to look unsuspicious :)
Sometimes I struggle to see the LCD screen in bright light, so have no choice. Also, I feel I can frame the picture better with the viewfinder.
I used both but mainly the view finder why? I got a DSRL it has the screen but sometimes for those weird angles. Good video!
Yeh, in DSLRs they're not very good. Delays.
I use both the monitor and the viewfinder of my camera in my own way. I'm a portrait photographer. If I need to focus much more clearly on the subject, I use the viewfinder. ♡!
Makes sense. 🙂
@@mitchellkphotos My best lenses are Manual Lenses, Dear Sir. So, there is no autofocus, and I need to rely on my viewfinder more when using those lenses. I love your Photos and your work, Sir. You are living the adventure. We are always be your fans. ♡!
Hi Mitchell, I use both, problem is that I use reading glasses, which are a obstacle sometimes for looking at settings. Great video by the way.
Oh yes. Not sure how that works, I'd assume that the screen would be better for that too. No?
@@mitchellkphotos I can adjust the viewfinder on my Fuji x-t2, but with the screen I have were glasses. Sorry I use Capture One and not Lightroom for your course.