Sean, your point about “if you are like me, you might get too precious with your photography.Too rigid, too strict” really vibed with my current state of mind. Thank you for bringing it to the forefront and allowing me to realise that it’s okay and that there’s more to photography than accuracy … there’s joy, peace and sense of achievement. So, really thanks for putting that point across so beautifully.
I like the way you present your "photography life" as a "journey". That is exactly what it is. We change, we develop, we get gear, we minimize gear, we sell, we buy, we get to understand what we like, and we change! Sometimes today I like to photograph in a certain way, and then a few years from now, we do it differently. As an "enthusiast" I have gone from film cameras, Nikon, Minoltas, etc. to my cameras today, Pentax and Ricoh ( and I have an Olympus XZ-10 which I love!). Just now waiting for my GR II to arrive. Thank you for your excellent videos!
Your UA-cam channel is one of the reasons why I take photos today. It keeps encouraging me to take photos and think of photography. Thank you so much Sean :)
Really enjoyable video. I've had the Ricoh GR for around three years and it's the most inspiring camera I have ever owned - the way you can customise it is quite amazing. The points you make have all been reflected in my own experience. I love the photographic randomness that camera encourages (what you called playfulness) , the surprising detail you discover later in Lightroom.
I've been shooting with the GR for the last 3 years now, I'd highly recommend picking up the 21mm wide angle lens adapter. It does have a heavy distortion, but it extends the use of the camera hugely. Also a quick way to set hyperfocal (an old ricoh trick) is to hold the camera above your head and take a picture of your feet, check that the image is sharp, and turn off the autofocus, set your f-stop to f8 and forget about autofocus while shooting on the street. Best of luck!
The Ricoh GR is the most underrated camera in the photo industry. Very sharp lens, and a stunner (!) of a camera for timelapse, too. The configurable hyperfocal/snap feature is a must for street shooters - and it can be used on all apertures. On bright sunny days, the inbuilt ND filter is a life saver when you shoot with f2.8 aperture. The double exposure and astro freature is a big creative bonus, also. Same with the superfast access to presets. This camera grows on you for every shoot taken. A classic in every sense of the word.
Thanks Sean, love my GR2, only had it about 3 weeks, i feel doubly vindicated now! Thank you for a great channel, so thought provoking and proffesional .
Snapseed is a good option for android and they even offer RAW processing if you transfer the DNGs from the GRII. You can also add the instagram borders using the expand tool, so no need for an extra app.
Thanks for highlighting this great little camera. I've had mine for some time and though not my main shooter there is something really special about the GRii. It's hard to describe just how compact yet powerful this little guy is. Thanks for your continued content, Sean!
Wow... I have my Ricoh GRii for 1 week now and I'm so happy to have bought it. Shooting was never this fun and the quality is reeeealy dope for the size.
This is the first video I watched on your channel. I then watched another nine, one after the other. Great informational content and attention to detail with your video production. It won't take long to get through the rest of your videos. Good luck Sean!
So agree. Wider focal lengths are more challenging to compose with, but can also be more rewarding. I am very interested in trying a 24mm equivalent for awhile for this very reason.
Thanks for this video. I have realised, I used to click more photos and probably better ones when I used to shoot(rather carry around) my small Sony cybershot than my bigger bridge camera or dslr. I definitely have learnt a lot, improved over the years, but that small camera was more like a journal ! It stopped working a few years ago, but after this video I'm determined to get it repaired.
I love the intro and as always your insights are well tested and considered and having used the GR I agree with your take on it. Personally, I keep going back to a silver Panasonic LX100 / Leica D-Lux 7 in a vintage looking leather half-case as people seem to take me as a tourist, but most importantly the advantage I see is the 22*-70mm f/1.7 Leica Summilux, the rangefinder style EVF and the simple way you can set manual and automatic modes on the aperture, shutter speed and ISO with a flick of a dial, and I found the IQ to be on a par with the GR. For candid photography, the LX100 Wi-Fi remote mode and smartphone app is very useful as I can leave the camera hanging on a strap off my side and use the smartphone app to control all the functions including zoom. That provides a lower angle for more complementary images of people and I've got some uniquely natural and relaxed images for casual and even event shoots where I use the A7 as well. For classic street photo look of people, I love the GR and also the A7R and a vintage Manual glass like the Minolta/Leica 40mm f/2.0, and while I strive to be very discrete and respectful, in the U.S. so many people are not even if I'm not photographing people 'A7R seems to 'trigger' people and police into Paranoid and abusive reactions, and again that's where the GR has an advantage. *I found on the LX100 if I use Capture One I can pull more off the cropped multi-format sensor and get close to a 22mm F/L when zoomed fully out. CP-1 also seems to extract more detail, Micro-contrast, colour and lens RAW conversion Than Lightroom.
I never really thought about giving myself permission to be free and playful with my photography until you mentioned that, Sean. You always have good advice and philosophies.
I have always hated shooting with a screen rather than a viewfinder. Recently though I purchased a Fujifilm x-m1 with tilting screen and I was surprised at just how like shooting a TLR it is. Excellent for discreet street photography and I am really enjoying it!
I've been shooting professionally for 10 years and a lot longer before then. I too, had a similar journey in which I progressively started shooting wider and wider. Zooming in tight and blurring everything but your subject matter has a "professional" look to it and it's easy to do. Shooting wide is much more challenging. I still rely on those tight shots in my professional work, but if you look at my film stuff (my personal work), I never shoot with telephotos.
Thanks for the video! On this subject, one of my favorite ways to shoot street that helps me capture organic moments is hanging my camera around my neck, and connect with my phone to use as a preview/remote shutter release. Definitely depends on the camera you use, but I always keep an eye out for this feature
I struggle with this a lot as well. Finding something with a thin enough profile to fit in a cargo pants pocket, but still offer a good amount of control and quality, is my ideal. I have a Canon EOS M100. With the 22mm f2 lens it technically works, but it pretty much fills the pocket and isn't very comfortable. Cameras like the Ricoh in your video and the Fujifilm X70 do look really appealing.
No shame in a well executed gear video. Great to hear how a camera makes you feel and effects your photography rather than pixel peeping and reading spec sheets. More please (xt30?)
I love what's in my bag videos! They usually have huge bags and way more gear, butI always feel I get at least one good tip regardless. I feel that your compact kit and needs are similar to my own, and would be invaluable. Thanks!
I also use the thumb to shoot with it! My Ricoh GR is my "no camera" camera. It is the camera I have with me when I don't plan on having a camera with me. I almost always have it in my coat pocket or in a bag/backpack. The built in flash is shorted out, one of the lanyard holes is busted and the body shows a decent amount of wear by now.
Wow that snap focus feature is *spot on* for my style of shooting. That little Ricoh has been on my short list for a long time because of IQ. Definitely piqued my interest again. Thanks Sean!
Great videos and a fantastic channel! Not sure why I didn't get addicted to it sooner :) This video rekindled my excitement for my GR II. I hadn't used it much lately but it is generally always with me. It really doesn't get in the way much and allows you to really focus on the scene. It is interesting that you have gradually become acclimated to wider lenses because I have found the same to be true of myself. I too used to be "safe" with the 85mm or a 70-200mm zoom. A couple of years ago I forced myself to start using a 50mm then went to a 35mm all the while working with the 28mm FOV of the GR II on and off. I often now feel the 50mm too "tight" and am using the 35mm/28mm much more frequently. I've also added a 21mm to the lineup but time will tell on that one. Just a great video that resonated with me very well, thanks!
I spend most of my time shooting from the hip. I like the snapshot aesthetic. After a while working with a specific lens, you get to 'know' what the image is going to look like in your mind before you shoot. I really like the 28mm focal length for street and recently I have been getting into 24mm as well (16mm equivalent on a Fuji, as you will probably remember). The main benefit I find is that by shooting from the hip you can get fleeting expressions on people's faces. Good video again, Sean.
Your comment about focal length resonates. 10 years ago I used mainly 50 to 70mm equivalent and occasionally wider. Now it's more like 18mm to 35mm equivalent and occasionally longer. Not sure if it's a growing older thing or a just getting comfortable with it thing.
I learned photography on a point and shoot many years ago. One thing I found was how much more candid my images were. Everyone thought I was just playing around with the settings on my camera. I still own an old Canon power shot, I should take it out more. Thanks for the inspiration. :-)
Your videos are great man, and I also love watching the gear ones just as mush as the others. I don’t think you should shy away from those because unlike ‘gear channels’ you talk about a photographer’s approach and the philosophy behind why you’d choose a specific cam. Anyway, keep it going Sean!
Many thanks Sean ..... I agree with you totally! I am out to buy, as it will be with Park Cameras in a couple of weeks, the new Ricoh GRIII. Basically, to have an exceptional image quality camera that’s with me all the time, but goes beyond the capabilities of iPhone 8+.
Great stuff, Sean! I’ve been doing more street photography myself recently, and have been enjoying the Fuji X-T20, which I find well suited to that purpose. Having said that, people still notice it a bit more than I’d like and it’s not pocketable. Great shots with the Ricoh. Proof that you can get amazing images from a tiny camera if you know what you’re doing. Would love to join your workshop but I already do street photography in NYC for free on my own time, so I can’t really justify the expense. For some who maybe haven’t done it before that’s a great opportunity to learn. Happy to support via your books instead - enjoyed the first one from last year.
Thx Sean...I still getting over the selfconciousness of toting a camera around in street situations. A wrist strap has been a big improvement for me. I'm using an OM-D which is pretty small so I'll stuck at it for a while yet. O also prefer to use the viewfinder right now..maybe time to experiment with the articulating screen..
Same here. OM-D E-M5 Mark II with wrist strap. Usually the 17mm f1.8 stays on it when I'm shooting in the streets. It a nice tight package. Having said that, the new Ricoh GR III is on my wish list.
Happy to see this video, Sean! I've discovered the same benefits from my Ricoh when shooting street. I force myself to bring it with me, because I don't have an excuse not to. I don't need a bag or anything. Thanks for talking about it!
Been using the GR for four years now. Love it, use it for all my travels and struggle to make myself take an SLR now. Big problem though was when I got a hair on the sensor, had to send it off to Germany. Thankfully it came back and was sorted.
Sheeeeesh - for a "stuck in a hotel" UA-cam video, the quality of the footage and lighting in that room is really well done. You really know how to get good results in a seemingly compromised situation
Thank you Sean for some very stimulating ideas, I have only just discovered your channel ( thanks to Peter Forsgård)and have already ordered your book.I invested in a Pen f last summer - as being retired it felt nostalgic and I realised that there are so many great cameras it can be overwhelming but if you find one that you have great fun using it motivates you to get out and just take more pictures.However the Pen f looks retro but is potentially very complex.I have taken lots of amazing shots with my iPhone, but it still does not “feel” like a camera even using the volume control as the shutter release! So your idea of sometimes using simple 'non threatening' pocket camera , which by its nature can force one to be more creative is something I will give serious though to. thanks again.
I was looking at reviews on the GRii on youtube (because of the GRiii), and stumbled on your video. I'm glad i did because it's more down to earth review than the other pixel peeping ones. Yes, i want spec reviews but i want to know how the camera responds in the hands of a photographer. And you did it perfectly. And it's good to know that it's a great camera, even in 2019. :) First video and already subscribed. Thumbs up !!
Hi Sean, I've had a similar journey to you re camera gear, I went from Canon to Fuji to Sony, I used the Fuji X100, X100T, X100F and Leica Q for street, then I got the GRII for it's size and snap focus and found that, like yourself, not having a viewfinder was beneficial, you can get really close without anyone taking much notice. It's not the perfect camera but for street it's pretty damn close, i also like that it shoots DNG raw files, it was a game changer for me, just get extra batteries.
I always come back to your video. Getting my Leica C-lux, I can now walk around with that one and the GRii, to take care of my needs. Love both cameras. When I do not have to carry heavy DSLR stuff around, and like quality and flexibility, those two make my day. Lately, after a few films with the Leica 5-axis stabilization, It has proven quite well.
It's on nearly all Ricoh digital compacts, and not just the newer ones like the GR range. The Capillo and R series cameras have it, and the Capillo / CX range have snap, and they shoot RAW. The lower end cameras like the R range can be had for as low as £8 on ebay. I have an R7 which has snap function and loads of customisation.
Great compacts for street photography: Ricoh GR Fuji XF10 (also has snapshot focus) Panasonic LX100 (tiny body with tons of manual controls and dials) Sony RX100 (Best in class autofocus)
I think it's the way to go, have a second small pocket camera, so you don't have to worry about carrying extra equipment in a backpack. My choice is the Fuji X70, I added a small pocket flash and now it's my main choice for street photography. Great video!
Hah, a new video. Thanks Sean. A few points though: if you use iphone with ProCamera app you do have all the manual controls you can want and need. Just sayin. It is a bit of a drag to find the camera you really can use for everything, from night photography to street shots. I love street photography with my nikon with 70-300, which is the total opposite of what most street photographers say. I bet Henri Cartier Bresson would bark at me. I keep wondering if I truly need a smaller 35mm kind of thingie as my iphone is surgically attached to my hip. I wonder if Doisneau or Capa nowadays would use an iphone. lol. Another practical question, is there a way to get a youtube feed with just your movies in? I seem to get other instructors mixed in, even if I just have yours bookmarked on only want to see yours. I have solved my problem by creating another bookmarked folder, with only links to your video's, which works reasonably good, but I want to make sure I have watched them ALL... I am all Tuckered out! Thank you for this little piece of advice again!
By the way, I spent a challenging day at the Gumyoji market in Yokohama in Japan, using my newly acquired GRii. It is ADDICTIVE! Love the camera, especially shooting on B&W. LOVE IT! Thanks for your video! Kept it in aperture priority.
Sean honestly do you have any audio books recorded by your voice ? listening to you is very relaxing , PLS if you do not have make it that would be awesome . great work mate
Great content! When I have the time I often take my Sunday mornings off for myself and just walk around town with my Zeiss Milvus 35 f/2. It is a nice little lense and the manual focus makes you really think of the composition before taking the picture. To me, the slowing down of the process is much more needed than the speeding up as you experience. It is interesting that we have the exact opposite experience.
Sean, I am seeing this video 4 years after the fact but your thoughts are perfectly in line with the reasons I purchased a used Nikon A1000 in what I can see is mint condition for $478.00 on Amazon. The only difference is I needed reach for wildlife situations and this little camera is a 840mm zoom (35x zoom). I saw that and thought Holy Crap! It has a viewfinder but as you pointed out using the screen has its advantages and this one tilts as well. I too wanted to have a camera that I can manually set if necessary but small enough to always have in my pocket. Thank you Jay Maisel. I live in Portland, Oregon and during the pandemic the Mayor got into a pissing match with Trump that resulted in constant rioting for 90 days that resulted in the complete destruction of any and all businesses on the first floor of any building downtown. Since then crime and general anger has risen to the point I don't feel comfortable walking around with a DSLR and a decent lens for either shooting street or Architectural fine art in my free time. But this option gives me a chance again. Your video was very helpful to confirm what I was thinking. Thank you.
Great presentation! I have this camera and I do like it because of its size and ease of use. I agree, it’s a really good second camera as I love the feel of a larger camera such as the X-Pro and X 100 range.
i do enjoy your thoughts. i have been using my pre-owned gr2 for the past 16mos. i find the images appealing and i am often challenged by my willingness to document a moment. but with the gr2 with its very decent focusing capabilities and its small form factor, i am often invisible. thank you for the effort and the sharing. i am a very appreciative subscriber. BIG thumbs up.
Sean, your point about “if you are like me, you might get too precious with your photography.Too rigid, too strict” really vibed with my current state of mind. Thank you for bringing it to the forefront and allowing me to realise that it’s okay and that there’s more to photography than accuracy … there’s joy, peace and sense of achievement. So, really thanks for putting that point across so beautifully.
I love how you edit your videos. The soundtracks, the colour you use, etc.
I like the way you present your "photography life" as a "journey". That is exactly what it is. We change, we develop, we get gear, we minimize gear, we sell, we buy, we get to understand what we like, and we change! Sometimes today I like to photograph in a certain way, and then a few years from now, we do it differently. As an "enthusiast" I have gone from film cameras, Nikon, Minoltas, etc. to my cameras today, Pentax and Ricoh ( and I have an Olympus XZ-10 which I love!). Just now waiting for my GR II to arrive. Thank you for your excellent videos!
Your video always has that calmness that i like
He needs to start an ASMR channel
Completely agree; calm, and no unnecessary, annoying music, thanks Sean.
Man, I love this channel. Your content is so unique. More like a documentary/reality tv series than most UA-cam I watch.
"This is not a gear channel"
Gave the best gear review...
Thumps up from me, Sean!
Having a compact second camera is game changing. No excuses, just pick up and go.
I've been shooting 1000% times more since I've got my second one.
Which second camera you have?
Abhishek Arora Fuji X100F at the moment.
Sony rx100 iv ( "needed" a viewfinder) + Konica c35 AF2 - a smallish autofocus 35mm film camera :-)
@@aurora_viz ricoh GR2 here. (IG: freshouttafocus)
Totally agree. I carry an X-T20 with the XF27mm pancake lens. The X100 series seem to be a great choice for the folks who use those as well.
Your UA-cam channel is one of the reasons why I take photos today. It keeps encouraging me to take photos and think of photography. Thank you so much Sean :)
Thanks for sharing your thought process and the “why” behind your decisions. It helps many of us with our own journey.
Its just a joy listening to your perspective.
Now this is a TRUE photographer video. Loving the reason why you chose the Ricoh. I too carry a few cameras for different scenarios. Love it
I have a sony a7r3 and a GRII, shoot much more with the later...glad to see you pick it up finally, hope to see more GR shots coming up later!
Each and every video are so serene, clean and boosting, every morning I listen to Seans videos.
I needed to hear this - great message about not being so "planned" and meticulous with all of my photography. Thank you.
Honestly possibly the best compact camera for street. I love your content Sean, very inspiring!
Some UA-camr's don't come up for air when they verbally deliver their verdicts etc., but your timbre gets right to the target. Urbane, in a word.
Really enjoyable video. I've had the Ricoh GR for around three years and it's the most inspiring camera I have ever owned - the way you can customise it is quite amazing. The points you make have all been reflected in my own experience. I love the photographic randomness that camera encourages (what you called playfulness) , the surprising detail you discover later in Lightroom.
I've been shooting with the GR for the last 3 years now, I'd highly recommend picking up the 21mm wide angle lens adapter. It does have a heavy distortion, but it extends the use of the camera hugely. Also a quick way to set hyperfocal (an old ricoh trick) is to hold the camera above your head and take a picture of your feet, check that the image is sharp, and turn off the autofocus, set your f-stop to f8 and forget about autofocus while shooting on the street. Best of luck!
Good tips
so happy to see your channel grow, you deserve it Sean
I always leave one or two fresh videos unwatched for later when I won't feel it (my photography or personal). The power of Sean's videos is insane.
The Ricoh GR is the most underrated camera in the photo industry. Very sharp lens, and a stunner (!) of a camera for timelapse, too. The configurable hyperfocal/snap feature is a must for street shooters - and it can be used on all apertures. On bright sunny days, the inbuilt ND filter is a life saver when you shoot with f2.8 aperture. The double exposure and astro freature is a big creative bonus, also. Same with the superfast access to presets. This camera grows on you for every shoot taken. A classic in every sense of the word.
Yes! Love linking w/ GR2 shooters. Find me (IG: freshouttafocus)
Thanks Sean, love my GR2, only had it about 3 weeks, i feel doubly vindicated now! Thank you for a great channel, so thought provoking and proffesional .
Snapseed is a good option for android and they even offer RAW processing if you transfer the DNGs from the GRII.
You can also add the instagram borders using the expand tool, so no need for an extra app.
Awesome video as always and a message I needed to hear. Especially when you talked about getting "too precious" with your photography.
As always, a delight. No one can display such a high level of mastery while maintaining an equivalent level of humility quite like you Sean. Cheers!
That's kind, thanks mate.
Thanks for highlighting this great little camera. I've had mine for some time and though not my main shooter there is something really special about the GRii. It's hard to describe just how compact yet powerful this little guy is. Thanks for your continued content, Sean!
Wow... I have my Ricoh GRii for 1 week now and I'm so happy to have bought it. Shooting was never this fun and the quality is reeeealy dope for the size.
This is the first video I watched on your channel. I then watched another nine, one after the other. Great informational content and attention to detail with your video production. It won't take long to get through the rest of your videos. Good luck Sean!
Thanks Norman:)
I appreciate your videos so much. Your “Collection II” book was also excellent. Thank you Sean.
Thanks for supporting Mark.
I own the ricoh and it makes you shoot more . It's an amazing camera. I got happy to see you got one . Love your videos bro
Lovely to see Amsterdam and a nice surprise with the groupphoto at the end. Have a good one Sean. Cheers!
No matter what I was doing, when I saw you posted new video, I just want to watch it right away! Always better than the top. Thanks, Sean!
Thanks my friend.
Yes, make a bag overview video! Also please talk about why you chose your specific bag.
So agree. Wider focal lengths are more challenging to compose with, but can also be more rewarding. I am very interested in trying a 24mm equivalent for awhile for this very reason.
I picked up the GRI about 6 months ago super cheap and love it. Love you videos, thanks for all the content.
I love the way you present your journey and it is so calming to listen to you. I would love to attend your workshops if there are any in the pipeline.
What an inspiration you are always Sean, thank you....
Common Sense Photography presented with a Zen Philosophy....Excellent.
Thanks for this video. I have realised, I used to click more photos and probably better ones when I used to shoot(rather carry around) my small Sony cybershot than my bigger bridge camera or dslr. I definitely have learnt a lot, improved over the years, but that small camera was more like a journal ! It stopped working a few years ago, but after this video I'm determined to get it repaired.
I love the intro and as always your insights are well tested and considered and having used the GR I agree with your take on it.
Personally, I keep going back to a silver Panasonic LX100 / Leica D-Lux 7 in a vintage looking leather half-case as people seem to take me as a tourist, but most importantly the advantage I see is the 22*-70mm f/1.7 Leica Summilux, the rangefinder style EVF and the simple way you can set manual and automatic modes on the aperture, shutter speed and ISO with a flick of a dial, and I found the IQ to be on a par with the GR.
For candid photography, the LX100 Wi-Fi remote mode and smartphone app is very useful as I can leave the camera hanging on a strap off my side and use the smartphone app to control all the functions including zoom. That provides a lower angle for more complementary images of people and I've got some uniquely natural and relaxed images for casual and even event shoots where I use the A7 as well.
For classic street photo look of people, I love the GR and also the A7R and a vintage Manual glass like the Minolta/Leica 40mm f/2.0, and while I strive to be very discrete and respectful, in the U.S. so many people are not even if I'm not photographing people 'A7R seems to 'trigger' people and police into Paranoid and abusive reactions, and again that's where the GR has an advantage.
*I found on the LX100 if I use Capture One I can pull more off the cropped multi-format sensor and get close to a 22mm F/L when zoomed fully out. CP-1 also seems to extract more detail, Micro-contrast, colour and lens RAW conversion Than Lightroom.
I never really thought about giving myself permission to be free and playful with my photography until you mentioned that, Sean. You always have good advice and philosophies.
Yes! Do a bag video! I enjoy how you think and work and love learning from you!
I've had the same experience with the X100F. Take it with me EVERYWHERE and absolutely love it. Good to hear your thoughts, Sean.
I have always hated shooting with a screen rather than a viewfinder. Recently though I purchased a Fujifilm x-m1 with tilting screen and I was surprised at just how like shooting a TLR it is. Excellent for discreet street photography and I am really enjoying it!
I've been shooting professionally for 10 years and a lot longer before then. I too, had a similar journey in which I progressively started shooting wider and wider. Zooming in tight and blurring everything but your subject matter has a "professional" look to it and it's easy to do. Shooting wide is much more challenging. I still rely on those tight shots in my professional work, but if you look at my film stuff (my personal work), I never shoot with telephotos.
Thanks for the video! On this subject, one of my favorite ways to shoot street that helps me capture organic moments is hanging my camera around my neck, and connect with my phone to use as a preview/remote shutter release. Definitely depends on the camera you use, but I always keep an eye out for this feature
I struggle with this a lot as well. Finding something with a thin enough profile to fit in a cargo pants pocket, but still offer a good amount of control and quality, is my ideal. I have a Canon EOS M100. With the 22mm f2 lens it technically works, but it pretty much fills the pocket and isn't very comfortable. Cameras like the Ricoh in your video and the Fujifilm X70 do look really appealing.
welcome to the GR club. Also an alpha user but that GR has given me the most authentic and human shots. Love your stuff.
No shame in a well executed gear video. Great to hear how a camera makes you feel and effects your photography rather than pixel peeping and reading spec sheets. More please (xt30?)
Another great video. I enjoy your more esoteric approach to photography.
Wow stunning images. I really admire your work Sean. Keep them coming and thank you for sharing.
Would love to see whats in your bag and what a great vlog, thanks for sharing.
I love what's in my bag videos! They usually have huge bags and way more gear, butI always feel I get at least one good tip regardless. I feel that your compact kit and needs are similar to my own, and would be invaluable. Thanks!
I have been more excited for the release of these videos than anything else lately, great stuff.
That’s exactly why I got me a FujiX70. Great video and correct on every point. Thank you Sean.
Thank you. Your candor and knowledge are refreshing.
Tu forma de analizar las cosas y compartir esa perspectiva es brillante!
I'm currently using Sony A6300 but have had my eye on the Ricoh for a very long time now. Thanks for the inspiration, I might be getting one soon.
I also use the thumb to shoot with it! My Ricoh GR is my "no camera" camera. It is the camera I have with me when I don't plan on having a camera with me. I almost always have it in my coat pocket or in a bag/backpack. The built in flash is shorted out, one of the lanyard holes is busted and the body shows a decent amount of wear by now.
Wow that snap focus feature is *spot on* for my style of shooting. That little Ricoh has been on my short list for a long time because of IQ. Definitely piqued my interest again. Thanks Sean!
Great videos and a fantastic channel! Not sure why I didn't get addicted to it sooner :) This video rekindled my excitement for my GR II. I hadn't used it much lately but it is generally always with me. It really doesn't get in the way much and allows you to really focus on the scene. It is interesting that you have gradually become acclimated to wider lenses because I have found the same to be true of myself. I too used to be "safe" with the 85mm or a 70-200mm zoom. A couple of years ago I forced myself to start using a 50mm then went to a 35mm all the while working with the 28mm FOV of the GR II on and off. I often now feel the 50mm too "tight" and am using the 35mm/28mm much more frequently. I've also added a 21mm to the lineup but time will tell on that one. Just a great video that resonated with me very well, thanks!
I spend most of my time shooting from the hip. I like the snapshot aesthetic. After a while working with a specific lens, you get to 'know' what the image is going to look like in your mind before you shoot. I really like the 28mm focal length for street and recently I have been getting into 24mm as well (16mm equivalent on a Fuji, as you will probably remember). The main benefit I find is that by shooting from the hip you can get fleeting expressions on people's faces. Good video again, Sean.
I see this video again and again. And I always learn something new from it. And it always brings me peace. As it does for most of your videos. :-)
Your comment about focal length resonates. 10 years ago I used mainly 50 to 70mm equivalent and occasionally wider. Now it's more like 18mm to 35mm equivalent and occasionally longer. Not sure if it's a growing older thing or a just getting comfortable with it thing.
I’m glad I’m not alone on that:)
I learned photography on a point and shoot many years ago. One thing I found was how much more candid my images were. Everyone thought I was just playing around with the settings on my camera. I still own an old Canon power shot, I should take it out more. Thanks for the inspiration. :-)
Your videos are great man, and I also love watching the gear ones just as mush as the others. I don’t think you should shy away from those because unlike ‘gear channels’ you talk about a photographer’s approach and the philosophy behind why you’d choose a specific cam. Anyway, keep it going Sean!
Many thanks Sean ..... I agree with you totally! I am out to buy, as it will be with Park Cameras in a couple of weeks, the new Ricoh GRIII. Basically, to have an exceptional image quality camera that’s with me all the time, but goes beyond the capabilities of iPhone 8+.
I did exactly the same thing a few weeks ago: got a used GRII and it goes with me everywhere when I don't want to carry my other gear.
Great stuff, Sean! I’ve been doing more street photography myself recently, and have been enjoying the Fuji X-T20, which I find well suited to that purpose. Having said that, people still notice it a bit more than I’d like and it’s not pocketable. Great shots with the Ricoh. Proof that you can get amazing images from a tiny camera if you know what you’re doing. Would love to join your workshop but I already do street photography in NYC for free on my own time, so I can’t really justify the expense. For some who maybe haven’t done it before that’s a great opportunity to learn. Happy to support via your books instead - enjoyed the first one from last year.
Brilliant video Sean.
Thx Sean...I still getting over the selfconciousness of toting a camera around in street situations. A wrist strap has been a big improvement for me. I'm using an OM-D which is pretty small so I'll stuck at it for a while yet. O also prefer to use the viewfinder right now..maybe time to experiment with the articulating screen..
Same here. OM-D E-M5 Mark II with wrist strap. Usually the 17mm f1.8 stays on it when I'm shooting in the streets. It a nice tight package. Having said that, the new Ricoh GR III is on my wish list.
I use a neck strap because it makes me look like a goofy tourist, which is perfect. Kind of the opposite philosophy to being “discreet”.
Thank you for your videos. Very instructonal for us enthusiasts!
Happy to see this video, Sean! I've discovered the same benefits from my Ricoh when shooting street. I force myself to bring it with me, because I don't have an excuse not to. I don't need a bag or anything. Thanks for talking about it!
Been using the GR for four years now. Love it, use it for all my travels and struggle to make myself take an SLR now. Big problem though was when I got a hair on the sensor, had to send it off to Germany. Thankfully it came back and was sorted.
Great video as always Sean. Those images are great from such a small, inconspicuous little camera.
Sheeeeesh - for a "stuck in a hotel" UA-cam video, the quality of the footage and lighting in that room is really well done. You really know how to get good results in a seemingly compromised situation
Thank you Sean for some very stimulating ideas, I have only just discovered your channel ( thanks to Peter Forsgård)and have already ordered your book.I invested in a Pen f last summer - as being retired it felt nostalgic and I realised that there are so many great cameras it can be overwhelming but if you find one that you have great fun using it motivates you to get out and just take more pictures.However the Pen f looks retro but is potentially very complex.I have taken lots of amazing shots with my iPhone, but it still does not “feel” like a camera even using the volume control as the shutter release! So your idea of sometimes using simple 'non threatening' pocket camera , which by its nature can force one to be more creative is something I will give serious though to. thanks again.
I was looking at reviews on the GRii on youtube (because of the GRiii), and stumbled on your video. I'm glad i did because it's more down to earth review than the other pixel peeping ones. Yes, i want spec reviews but i want to know how the camera responds in the hands of a photographer. And you did it perfectly. And it's good to know that it's a great camera, even in 2019. :) First video and already subscribed. Thumbs up !!
Hi Sean, I've had a similar journey to you re camera gear, I went from Canon to Fuji to Sony, I used the Fuji X100, X100T, X100F and Leica Q for street, then I got the GRII for it's size and snap focus and found that, like yourself, not having a viewfinder was beneficial, you can get really close without anyone taking much notice. It's not the perfect camera but for street it's pretty damn close, i also like that it shoots DNG raw files, it was a game changer for me, just get extra batteries.
Yes please, it would be quite informative and educational to know and learn what you carry in your daily carry bag :)
Ashwini Karkera I second this
Yes! Starting with: what bag is that? :)
@@kornenator I think it's a Lowepro ProTactic 350? Kinda Looks like one...
@@j.j.linden7269 Thanks+ It could very well be that one. I thought it would be a bit smaller, the 350 looks like was designed for a full DSLR kit.
@@kornenator Yeah, true. I guess we'll just have to wait for his video!
Also, Sean looks pretty tall so it's hard to really see the size of it. ;)
We should have met in Amsterdam! Great video mate
I always come back to your video. Getting my Leica C-lux, I can now walk around with that one and the GRii, to take care of my needs. Love both cameras. When I do not have to carry heavy DSLR stuff around, and like quality and flexibility, those two make my day. Lately, after a few films with the Leica 5-axis stabilization, It has proven quite well.
That snapfocus sounds like a smart function! I would want that its perfect for street! 😍
It's on nearly all Ricoh digital compacts, and not just the newer ones like the GR range.
The Capillo and R series cameras have it, and the Capillo / CX range have snap, and they shoot RAW. The lower end cameras like the R range can be had for as low as £8 on ebay. I have an R7 which has snap function and loads of customisation.
Great compacts for street photography:
Ricoh GR
Fuji XF10 (also has snapshot focus)
Panasonic LX100 (tiny body with tons of manual controls and dials)
Sony RX100 (Best in class autofocus)
Will definitely take my GR II out more often now. Another good video. Many Thanks.
Thanks for the inspiration Sean
I think it's the way to go, have a second small pocket camera, so you don't have to worry about carrying extra equipment in a backpack. My choice is the Fuji X70, I added a small pocket flash and now it's my main choice for street photography. Great video!
Which flash may i ask. I have a x70 as well...and want to upgrade to x100f.
Great shots with the GR II. Love your work !
Sean! I just discovered your channel. Thanks a lot for those videos!
Hah, a new video. Thanks Sean. A few points though: if you use iphone with ProCamera app you do have all the manual controls you can want and need. Just sayin. It is a bit of a drag to find the camera you really can use for everything, from night photography to street shots. I love street photography with my nikon with 70-300, which is the total opposite of what most street photographers say. I bet Henri Cartier Bresson would bark at me. I keep wondering if I truly need a smaller 35mm kind of thingie as my iphone is surgically attached to my hip. I wonder if Doisneau or Capa nowadays would use an iphone. lol. Another practical question, is there a way to get a youtube feed with just your movies in? I seem to get other instructors mixed in, even if I just have yours bookmarked on only want to see yours. I have solved my problem by creating another bookmarked folder, with only links to your video's, which works reasonably good, but I want to make sure I have watched them ALL... I am all Tuckered out! Thank you for this little piece of advice again!
This video resonates so much. Thanks so much!
By the way, I spent a challenging day at the Gumyoji market in Yokohama in Japan, using my newly acquired GRii. It is ADDICTIVE! Love the camera, especially shooting on B&W. LOVE IT! Thanks for your video! Kept it in aperture priority.
Sean honestly do you have any audio books recorded by your voice ? listening to you is very relaxing , PLS if you do not have make it that would be awesome . great work mate
Great content! When I have the time I often take my Sunday mornings off for myself and just walk around town with my Zeiss Milvus 35 f/2. It is a nice little lense and the manual focus makes you really think of the composition before taking the picture. To me, the slowing down of the process is much more needed than the speeding up as you experience. It is interesting that we have the exact opposite experience.
Sean, I am seeing this video 4 years after the fact but your thoughts are perfectly in line with the reasons I purchased a used Nikon A1000 in what I can see is mint condition for $478.00 on Amazon. The only difference is I needed reach for wildlife situations and this little camera is a 840mm zoom (35x zoom). I saw that and thought Holy Crap! It has a viewfinder but as you pointed out using the screen has its advantages and this one tilts as well. I too wanted to have a camera that I can manually set if necessary but small enough to always have in my pocket. Thank you Jay Maisel. I live in Portland, Oregon and during the pandemic the Mayor got into a pissing match with Trump that resulted in constant rioting for 90 days that resulted in the complete destruction of any and all businesses on the first floor of any building downtown. Since then crime and general anger has risen to the point I don't feel comfortable walking around with a DSLR and a decent lens for either shooting street or Architectural fine art in my free time. But this option gives me a chance again. Your video was very helpful to confirm what I was thinking. Thank you.
Great presentation! I have this camera and I do like it because of its size and ease of use. I agree, it’s a really good second camera as I love the feel of a larger camera such as the X-Pro and X 100 range.
Love your channel, as a newbie photographer you inspire me to get out there and experiment
Yes please for the day-bag contents :D
As always! Inspiring People!👊👊👊
i do enjoy your thoughts. i have been using my pre-owned gr2 for the past 16mos. i find the images appealing and i am often challenged by my willingness to document a moment. but with the gr2 with its very decent focusing capabilities and its small form factor, i am often invisible. thank you for the effort and the sharing. i am a very appreciative subscriber. BIG thumbs up.