Quick review of the Guinness chocolate: If you’ve ever eaten chocolate and wished that it tasted a bit of dark, heavy, Irish pudding beer - this is for you. Also, if you want to eat chocolate but don’t have anything else in the house, this is passable but just tastes like it’s been in the cupboard for a number of years. 6/10.
you have no idea how much I needed to hear this. I just started this hobby two weeks ago and I'm completely overwhelmed and in my head. It helps to hear that this is a journey and to learn through trial and error. Thank you
Hi Denise! I am also just starting this journey. I have just purchased a Nikon Z6ii. Most of my family have been into photography for a long time, and I have been the "black sheep" of the family in that respect. I was in my own head too, comparing what I can do at this point, to what they can do at this point. Slow but steady progression is what I need to keep in my head when I go out on a photography shoot :)
Hi! I had strugle of figuring out myy self when i tarted photography and then i decided that i try to master areas one at the time and expand my skills and gear. Once i am confident with one area i move to next one to learn about. Hardest lesson i learned many times is that i sohuld have allways certain gear with me since you never know what happens, you may loose good shot in places you dont even realize if you dont have some reach with you to take that photo. So choose a compact bag you can easily pick up with you and fit few trusty lenses in it. Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 is usm II with 2x extender and Sigma EF 30mm f1.4 ART is always with me.
I appreciate learning tips from another photographer who's still learning and doesn't state that he knows everything, love your videos, especially your new 10 photos concept
Yes, that you feel like you know something's which you share...but you are still learning is one of the appeals of your channel. That and the sheep of course.
Good point. “Most photographers take 1000 photos for every photo in their portfolio. If you don’t realize that it. Ab put a lot of pressure on you.” Yes that’s so important to realize for any type of art. It takes doing doing doing and if you expect each piece to be a perfect piece that is eshausting and prevents from creating as much. But For example in a life drawing class, having to draw draw draw drill drill drill…that’s when the skill is developed. Thanks. Good lesson.
These videos have helped me tremendously, especially your reminders that progress is not linear and that disappointment is normal. More helpful than you'll ever know. Thank you.
13:28 - 14:30 about how you think about what the next gears you will get etc is exactly me right now. I bought a camera about 1 and a 1/2 months ago and just keep thinking about a new lens I want to buy and keep trying to wait to get that and then shoot again. I will now just enjoy what I have now until I can get some new gears and play with that. Thank you for these tips!
I thought this video contained some of the best basic truths and realities one could hope to know. Not everyone has access to a mentor who would explain these things and thereby cut through some years of grief and doubt. So, thank you James, for this video and for posting it.
Feel much better after your video. It’s good to hear someone being honest about their experiences and bumpy progress as a photographer. Makes the rest of us feel less like numpties (!) and more like keen amateurs. Cheers mate
Some sound advice James. I would always say - Best Menu's - Leica Best Glass - Leica Best Camera - God only knows as it is so subjective. My camera's are a Leica X, and a Nikon Df - the X is epic in many scenarios, but the Df is a beast in lowlight, and in changeable conditions. As for the ten shots idea - I tend to look for five from every trip out with the camera's. The other thing you learn as your photography progresses, is that you can visualise your images before you lift the camera, and thus take less images anyway. My best images this year were shot over a single day, where the conditions not only hit a sweet spot, but the subjects I shot just worked. On my subsequent days, I shot good stuff, but not to the same flavour. Good luck with fatherhood when it arrives. The challenges of balancing work, and parenthood await. Spend as much time as you can in the hills, you wont be back as often as you would like for a while. 😂
Love your vids. Been an amateur photog for about 55yrs...im always learning new stuff. Had just about every brand of camera. Now a G9 user and its the best camera I have ever had for what I do.
What I usually do is take a bunch of shots over a couple weeks than spend a weekend that I am not feeling taking and go through all the shots more thoroughly to find the keepers and make them better. Each night I would upload the shots to my computer and quickly go through all the shots from that day to see if I got that amazing shot. Have had days that nothing turned out as expected and other days that every shot turned out great to amazing. I do a lot of wildlife and nature shots especially waterfalls, sports, cityscape, landscape, portrait. Not much on portrait photography but generally for me they seem to turn out the best. For portrait I find the best shots are the ones that aren't staged and are random spur of the moment almost candid snapshot esq. My favorite is one of a friend who was behind me on a hike as they were taking a flower shot and were catching up to me. Came out super sharp with excellent lighting and was a very warm feeling to the scene. My friend was in perfect focus and was extremely sharp, with the foreground and background with the perfect amount of blur. Other shots of the same friend from a previous trip while it was a more overcast day the times were more on the cooler side of the spectrum but were none the less just as perfect. They did use the one shot I took of them as their profile pic on Facebook as that day was where I got that perfect portrait of them walking towards me.
Thanks James for letting us see Emily! Emily you look so cute! I am praying for all 3 of you! Healthy Mom and baby and wisdom and peace as you enter this exciting new stage of life! 💕
You are right with your statement about not everyone will like your pictures.but if you are a landscape photographer, it is a very basic rule to use a tripod.
You definitely don't come off as a know it all. Thank you for the tips. I've been into photography for about a year now. I'm enjoying it more and more each time I snap a picture. This video was extremely helpful, even for a mediocre photographer!
4:53 Fishing is similar to photography, in my opinion. It's not just "You either catch fish or you don't". It's more about whether you catch fishes you want and whether those fish are good catches (big, pretty, tasty, etc.) Like photography, you will almost always get something when fishing (yeah, even trash caught in the hook), but you won't always catch the fish you are proud of (take the photos you are proud of)
I like the way you think, probably because i think the same way about the things you said, as well as that you are being very open, raw and real. You rarely see this and in youtube- its like white unicorn. My admirations.
Great video. Shows us hobbyist that even pros like you have a life that “muddies the waters” and that perfection is not available. A work mentor in my first job told me: “Best is the enemy of good”. By that he meant that while chasing perfection, you are not realising that you already reached goals that are good enough, and should be marked as wins. Reaching a goal that is good enough also marks a point to reassess status and perhaps find new goals to reach rather than chasing perfection on the narrow path you are on. I have always found that to be great advice. Living up to it is often difficult, though.
@Living Soul Why? People like you need to stop this behavior. It's is just weird to interject things like this in random places. For the record, I am not against this but there are people who are....and if you want to attract, inspire or make a difference in someone's life....let them seek you out or ask for it.
James, Mr. Popsys formally, you operate magically on both the entertaining/light-hearted level while also on the more practical and serious level provide great advice and information. A delicate balancing action, clearly, to do both levels successfully since one could easily try to do both and accomplish neither. Good stuff then. Thx.
I love those videos! It always you to reground yourself or get back on the track when your off. And just motivates to carry on bc everyone has the same progression to go through, faster, slower, everyone at their own pace. Thank you!
I loved it when you talked about your phone signal and Emily... nothing to apologize for, lol... just means your a thoughtful husband. I always enjoy your honesty and transparency regarding photography James. As you have said before, there are many photographers out there, but I find that there aren't many like you. Grateful for the many ways you have shared your insights on growing our skills and that's what keeps me coming back to see what you have to teach me. Cheers James!
For every photo seen, there's hundreds or thousands that haven't been. This is definitely true with astrophotography, but then again that literally requires stacking numerous images in order to get higher signal to noise ratios, as well as get better detail. It isn't unheard of to hear of a single image having hundreds of subs involved, doubly so when you add in flat frames, bias frames, and dark frames in order to get even more signal out of the noise. With enjoying the here and now... Ohhh yeah, definitely a useful thing to make sure one is doing. I ~finally~ managed to get my paws on some of the lenses that have been on my "I'd love to get list", but I didn't focus on getting them. Always felt that I'd get them when I got them. Sooooo can't wait to take the 15mm f1.7 and 42.5mm f1.7 out for a spin...
As a brand new camera person.. I wouldnt even dare call myself a new photographer yet, I think your videos are an awesome help. Thank you. I've always loved capturing images and finally got myself a second hand eos 2000d so really looking forward to learning something new
Good points and humble outlooks, some good light humour thrown in too. The days of looking at equipment and the next best lens will ( as you said ) pay no result to great/good photography. The best thing is to get out there, experiment and enjoy yourself. We learn more by trying than we do thinking of trying. Chocolate sound neat.
My perfect camera is the used, castaway one that gives me the best value for my $$$. My best shot this year was taken with a camera I bought used way under market value, a 20 year old Sigma lens I scored cheap on Ebay and an adapter I found in a pawn shop for way less than it was worth. Part of the fun is the hunt I guess.
A less cheesy way to say it, regarding the goal quote, is: "If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time" which I've most heard attributed to Zig Zigler.
Thank you for your advice. I just recently discovered your videos, and I am loving them. Is always good to find a channel about photography that focus on photography and not just on having the best and latest gear. Two videos in and already subscribed.
I enjoy your 'tips" videos a lot. It's definitely NOT preachy or comes across as you know it all. It comes across more as, "avoid the mistakes I learned the hard way' and do this instead...." Emily looks wonderful. Baby appears to be growing nicely. woo hoo!
Hi James, One of the many things I really value about your videos is your opinion. In a world were opinions are all too often stated as facts your presentation is refreshing and gives me hope. Anyone who comes away from watching your channel thinking you are acting like a know-it-all... Well, they have a dirty filter which needs to be cleaned. Keep it up James. As always I come away with any number of sparks to follow.
It’s looks like previous commenters agree with this sentiment, but I still want to comment my piece as well: I really appreciate this video and find it very helpful. I’ve just started back up with this hobby and a lot of the videos out there that I’ve found for “beginners” feel quite…out of touch. I’m not sure how else to describe it. It’s clear these folks are incredibly talented (as are you) but their recommendations don’t feel practical for someone who is trying to sort themselves out and figure out how to approach things. I really appreciate in how you’ve presented these concepts and look forward to checking out your other videos. Thanks!
Hi James, usual excellent standard of video, not preachy at all, as always, full of wisdom, humour and most importantly 'humility' in so much as you always offer 'opinions' and 'ideas' never saying how things must be done, or must look. I thought the enjoyment piece at the end was hugely important and such an easy trap to fall into, it took me a while to get out of that one... and I think it's one that you can easily fall back into, especially watching UA-cam with lovely new gear and stunning locations everywhere you look. Hope next few weeks go well for you, Emily and Bump!
I like that you were open about points like personal progression and number of photos. It's really nice to hear the more "unspoken" things facts of photography (especially when you are a photographer yourself) , and it shows more of your personality and genuineness
Recently, in a used 2004 photo book, I read that smaller-sensor cameras have more depth of field than large-sensor cameras. WHOA - this is news to me!! I have many cameras, mostly smaller sensor types (bridge, point-and-shoot, Micro 4/3). I have been using some full-frame cameras lately and was having trouble getting sharp pictures. With smaller sensors, I didn't worry much about aperture. Now I know why - it came automatically. But with larger sensors, aperture is important. For people moving up from smaller sensors to larger sensors, this is something to be aware of.
The depth of field with different sized images was something I puzzled over years ago until the answer dawned on me that it was down to the focal length of the lens, the image size had nothing to do with it. For example a 300mm lens has shallow depth of field but is the standard lens on a 10X8 camera and obviously retains the same depth of field regardless of the image size.
Helpful? Yes, thank you! As a photog that is now 7 years in, these tips were great reminders of some inner thoughts that you may keep to yourself-like the trajectory map. Kudos, mate, much appreciated 😊
I like your advice videos. You're not stating the bleeding well obvious because 'common sense' is not so commonly practiced. Your precipitous switchback learning curve is much nearer the reality than the glib 'steep learning curve' - doesn't roll off the tongue as easily though. Also taking pictures 'about' something rather than 'of' something is a gem. Keep it up.
That graph... It perfectly captured my experience with photography! One day I shoot a picture where I'm really happy with, the next day all my pictures are crap.
4:21 seeing that camera just placed straight on the ground 😂 my hiking buddies (not photographers) always remark that I’m placing such expensive camera systems directly on the ground as I get stuff out of my pack where else am I going to put it in the middle of this field?! 🤣 it’s a camera it’s got weather resistance it’ll be fine. I actually bought another PD capture clip to wear on a photography belt just for this task. I transfer the camera to my belt and then can get food or other items out of my ruck while on the move even. It’s very nice. the thought of leaving a $4000 camera and lens combo 6 miles into the wilderness on a bench is my ultimate photography nightmare
I use Micro 4/3 simply because of the small size, especially the lenses. People often say the sensor is too small, but as they say, a bad workman always blames his tools, and unless you blow the images up to the size of a house, you are not likely to spot any difference, and if you do make your images enormous, then forget full frame also, it's medium format territory you are in. With a small system you are more likely to have the camera at hand when you actually need it, and any camera at hand is better than one that's in it's bag, or even worse in the car, because it's too bulky on that particular walk or excursion.
I think the Dunning Kruger Effect plays a part in that line of progression too. Easy when you start out in anything to learn a few things & think you know everything. A steep drop follows in realising you don’t and then a slow progression up to probably being more of an expert than you’re comfortable admitting. Cheers James, thought provoking & inspiring video. 👍🏻
OMG, I'm REAAAAALLY new to this hobby but this video touched me in a way. I mean, I always used smartphones since 2010, but never really felt like a photographer. Recently, after purchasing my 1st mirrorless, I've been searching for my old photos and I can hardly like about 125/150 of them. Which makes about 10 photos per year. I decided that from now on I need to raise my bar, even if there will be ups and down. Thousands of bad photos won't scary me or push me down anymore.
Spot on James! Not perfect by all means... Jolly nice to hear your words of waffling wisdom, leaves me restored knowing not just me then 😁 So, yeah just had to tap on and say this lifted and re-encouraged moi OhK well without further a waffle! Its simply big THANX from me here, finding my footing in Singapore trying too hard (maybe) sure to do better and rise above my troffs. (especially after more waffles, will skip Guinness chocolate & enjoy a traditional pint of pudding) PS, Only regret now... (To be fair I don't have many) When Wales was almost on my doorstep (Accurate derivative for Essex boy relocation) And no camera gear until now obviously.
As a newby, these tips were great, especially the concept of defining a goal to avoid the sense of disappointment going out shooting, and coming back with mostly rubbish!
I have just found your channel and trawling through your backlist which I am thoroughly enjoying and taking away loads of you useful advice, the one that has been the most revolutionary is takes lots of images. I follow a lot of landscape photographers and love their work but often feel quite disheartened when they go out take four shots and feel it's been a very satisfactory day, and I go out and fill half a memory card, I feel liberated to shoot more images.
PERFECT TIMING!! All your tips perfect for me as a beginner. I love the graphs of progress...very much a relief to know. Thanks James. Keep the advice coming for beginners!
This video is great and useful for beginners to avoid getting down about not always nailing great shots. Allowing yourself time to learn the skill of photography without harshly judging yourself will be beneficial to enjoy the craft and to maintain it for long term. Regardless if it’s a hobby or a profession. All of your vlogs are so entertaining and have a calming effect. Never stop them. They are great to watch with a cup of coffee in the early mornings or even before you head off to bed. Emily is great as well!
Great video, just found you after a friend gave me the heads up, love your points of view so very true on all counts. I'm lucky enough to live a stones throw from the gateway to Snowdonia and Crafnant is one of my favorite places for peace and tranquility, but those darn midges are a pest and brutal. Look forward to having a good binge watch of all your vlogs and excited to see the future ones.
This could not have been better timed, I just bought my first DSLR after taking interest and watching your channel for some time. I took an interest after playing with a polaroid (one of the little $80 toys my sister happened to get for herself) and decided to give it a go. Love all of the information and tips mate, cheers!
James, I like your videos so much, there are an inspiration for my own learning and growing in photography! thank you so much! great uplifting inspiring work, beautiful photos, wonderful creative making of your videos! and your are such a lovely human to listen to, I not only learn so much from you, I also feel often calm and comfortable watching your videos, while there is so much UA-cam and world craziness going on... greetings from Germany!
Enjoyed your video. Digital cameras are great ,you can take hundreds of images, trying different compositions ,close ups wide angle's etc. As you say failed shots are a learning process getting to know your camera etc ,finding out what works...biggest 1st tip for me when I started off was the old rule of thirds!
@13:00 you're not preachy at all. What keeps me coming back is your humour and humility, your insight and enthusiasm. I hesitate to say this because I don't want it taken wrong but...while I respect your photographic work, I'm not really a fan of your post-processing, and often not of the subject matter. But that's irrelevant to why I'm subscribed and keep returning. I feel like I learn something new from you every video, and getting a good chuckle is icing on the cake. There are other photographers whose final product speaks to me more strongly, but they aren't as engaging or insightful and I don't learn nearly as much. So keep on "preaching"! :)
Thanks for this video … especially the end where you mention to just enjoy going out with the camera! Indeed my mind was stuck at the equipment and photo editing lately… so thanks 😉🙏🏻
Somedays i'm taking hundreds of photos and other days i don't even take my camera out and i start to think is something wrong... then the next day i learn something new and it completely changes my level of photography. But yeah the line on the graph always goes upwards. Thank you for making me realise that!
"How much coffee you've had". Can relate!! Definitely helpful. I've so much to learn, and I don't even think I'm at the point of understanding my style or even preferred type but just learning to be happy out with the camera is so key. Ups and downs are so typical with so many endeavours - has been for music so definitely keeping that end goal in mind is key. Glad Emily and bump are doing well!
As always a cracking watch James, the ‘enjoy the now’ piece, it’s one of those phrases that a lot of us hear but don’t quite take on board soon enough. Similar to the one used by a certain blue and yellow liveried flat pack store, “sometimes the little things can be the big things”!
I always find the advice and reminders helpful. Especially the one about needing to take hundreds or thousands of photos to get one you could put up on your wall. I must keep that in mind next time I get frustrated by my efforts!
I'm a Brit in the U.S, loving the banter (which I really miss). You're so funny just chatting, love it! wish me luck getting into photography, so far I'm rubbish. Can't figure out the settings on my canon 1100D. I've had it for years and thought I should have a go while I live in the Rocky Mountains.
Really like the last point.... I struggle with GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).... Always looking for the next lens, camera, gadget. Its just so shiny... Thanks for the video as always :)
Really good vlog, pragmatic approach to anything in life usually ends up with a much better result than one that was achieved after a lot of stress. Glad you’re keeping us updated on imminent parenting…when you disappear for 6 months we’ll know you’re occupied in cleaning up green stuff rather than out photographing it 🤪
Quick review of the Guinness chocolate:
If you’ve ever eaten chocolate and wished that it tasted a bit of dark, heavy, Irish pudding beer - this is for you. Also, if you want to eat chocolate but don’t have anything else in the house, this is passable but just tastes like it’s been in the cupboard for a number of years. 6/10.
Perfect review ! It’s like you wouldn’t go out and buy it but if it’s there your not gonna pass it up.
You should get a chocolate sponsor instead of squarespace, which everyone has :D
So that's the Guinness sponsorship box ticked, on the sponsorship not wanted list. 😂😂
Thats great, do you like guinness ?
Is it available in Canada ?????
you have no idea how much I needed to hear this. I just started this hobby two weeks ago and I'm completely overwhelmed and in my head. It helps to hear that this is a journey and to learn through trial and error. Thank you
Hi Denise! I am also just starting this journey. I have just purchased a Nikon Z6ii. Most of my family have been into photography for a long time, and I have been the "black sheep" of the family in that respect. I was in my own head too, comparing what I can do at this point, to what they can do at this point.
Slow but steady progression is what I need to keep in my head when I go out on a photography shoot :)
@@Stu-Bo Z6ii?! Thats a serious start!
Hope it's going well!!
Hi! I had strugle of figuring out myy self when i tarted photography and then i decided that i try to master areas one at the time and expand my skills and gear. Once i am confident with one area i move to next one to learn about. Hardest lesson i learned many times is that i sohuld have allways certain gear with me since you never know what happens, you may loose good shot in places you dont even realize if you dont have some reach with you to take that photo. So choose a compact bag you can easily pick up with you and fit few trusty lenses in it. Canon EF 70-200mm f2.8 is usm II with 2x extender and Sigma EF 30mm f1.4 ART is always with me.
Did you progress with your photography?
I appreciate learning tips from another photographer who's still learning and doesn't state that he knows everything, love your videos, especially your new 10 photos concept
Yes, that you feel like you know something's which you share...but you are still learning is one of the appeals of your channel. That and the sheep of course.
Can’t go wrong having sheep in a pic or video 🐑
James you never fail to make me laugh. Thanks for brightening up my weekend!
Good point. “Most photographers take 1000 photos for every photo in their portfolio. If you don’t realize that it. Ab put a lot of pressure on you.” Yes that’s so important to realize for any type of art. It takes doing doing doing and if you expect each piece to be a perfect piece that is eshausting and prevents from creating as much. But For example in a life drawing class, having to draw draw draw drill drill drill…that’s when the skill is developed. Thanks. Good lesson.
In spite of your having so many annoyances - Midges, rain, train, etc.- the advice was priceless
. Thank you James.
These videos have helped me tremendously, especially your reminders that progress is not linear and that disappointment is normal. More helpful than you'll ever know. Thank you.
I just want to thank you for the perspective. it wasn't preachy or patronizing, I sincerely appreciate it.
13:28 - 14:30 about how you think about what the next gears you will get etc is exactly me right now. I bought a camera about 1 and a 1/2 months ago and just keep thinking about a new lens I want to buy and keep trying to wait to get that and then shoot again. I will now just enjoy what I have now until I can get some new gears and play with that. Thank you for these tips!
I do agree, ive been shooting for 3 years, and ive only got one on my wall. Thank you fella.
Once again, great video. Instructional, informational and fun. I always have a smile on my face watching your videos.
"but all i want is the perfect cameraaaaa" - kasey
It’s a small world after all on YT 😂
Interesting this video showed up on my auto-play feed, right after Kasey's video
You could get the sony A1 its close ajd only 7000$ :)
Kasey himself knows (and pronounces) that this slogan in general is BS
I thought this video contained some of the best basic truths and realities one could hope to know. Not everyone has access to a mentor who would explain these things and thereby cut through some years of grief and doubt. So, thank you James, for this video and for posting it.
This is super simple advice and console to new photogs. It's a journey, the destinations and photos happen along the way.
Hey James, I'm not a landscape photographer, but I enjoy watching your videos. You've got a dry humor that's very entertaining and keeps us engaged.
Feel much better after your video. It’s good to hear someone being honest about their experiences and bumpy progress as a photographer. Makes the rest of us feel less like numpties (!) and more like keen amateurs. Cheers mate
Some sound advice James.
I would always say -
Best Menu's - Leica
Best Glass - Leica
Best Camera - God only knows as it is so subjective.
My camera's are a Leica X, and a Nikon Df - the X is epic in many scenarios, but the Df is a beast in lowlight, and in changeable conditions.
As for the ten shots idea - I tend to look for five from every trip out with the camera's. The other thing you learn as your photography progresses, is that you can visualise your images before you lift the camera, and thus take less images anyway.
My best images this year were shot over a single day, where the conditions not only hit a sweet spot, but the subjects I shot just worked. On my subsequent days, I shot good stuff, but not to the same flavour.
Good luck with fatherhood when it arrives. The challenges of balancing work, and parenthood await. Spend as much time as you can in the hills, you wont be back as often as you would like for a while. 😂
Love your vids. Been an amateur photog for about 55yrs...im always learning new stuff. Had just about every brand of camera. Now a G9 user and its the best camera I have ever had for what I do.
The one thing I learnt decades ago when in Wales (or the Lake District) if it is not raining it soon will be. Love your videos. Keep them coming.
As a beginner in photography, This is the best and most useful video i have seen!
Thanks again James!
Hey James, is there going to be a "top 10 of the year list" of your favourite photos on Instagram by the end of the year?
I've gotten some of the most useful tips from your videos. Keep them coming.
What I usually do is take a bunch of shots over a couple weeks than spend a weekend that I am not feeling taking and go through all the shots more thoroughly to find the keepers and make them better. Each night I would upload the shots to my computer and quickly go through all the shots from that day to see if I got that amazing shot. Have had days that nothing turned out as expected and other days that every shot turned out great to amazing. I do a lot of wildlife and nature shots especially waterfalls, sports, cityscape, landscape, portrait. Not much on portrait photography but generally for me they seem to turn out the best. For portrait I find the best shots are the ones that aren't staged and are random spur of the moment almost candid snapshot esq. My favorite is one of a friend who was behind me on a hike as they were taking a flower shot and were catching up to me. Came out super sharp with excellent lighting and was a very warm feeling to the scene. My friend was in perfect focus and was extremely sharp, with the foreground and background with the perfect amount of blur. Other shots of the same friend from a previous trip while it was a more overcast day the times were more on the cooler side of the spectrum but were none the less just as perfect. They did use the one shot I took of them as their profile pic on Facebook as that day was where I got that perfect portrait of them walking towards me.
Great and extremly important video James!
Not just for us beginners, it’s a good guide for gettona on track with the ”WHY-question ???”
Thanks James for letting us see Emily! Emily you look so cute! I am praying for all 3 of you! Healthy Mom and baby and wisdom and peace as you enter this exciting new stage of life! 💕
Hello James. You help us remember not to be too hard on ourselves and not to give up and stay in Scene Mode. Loved the quotes.
You are right with your statement about not everyone will like your pictures.but if you are a landscape photographer, it is a very basic rule to use a tripod.
You definitely don't come off as a know it all. Thank you for the tips. I've been into photography for about a year now. I'm enjoying it more and more each time I snap a picture. This video was extremely helpful, even for a mediocre photographer!
After a few "bad" days with the camera, I was feeling quite low. This video taught me it's quite normal. Thanks.
Great advice, applicable to lots of things in life, and photography too.
4:53 Fishing is similar to photography, in my opinion. It's not just "You either catch fish or you don't". It's more about whether you catch fishes you want and whether those fish are good catches (big, pretty, tasty, etc.)
Like photography, you will almost always get something when fishing (yeah, even trash caught in the hook), but you won't always catch the fish you are proud of (take the photos you are proud of)
I like the way you think, probably because i think the same way about the things you said, as well as that you are being very open, raw and real. You rarely see this and in youtube- its like white unicorn. My admirations.
Great video. Shows us hobbyist that even pros like you have a life that “muddies the waters” and that perfection is not available. A work mentor in my first job told me: “Best is the enemy of good”. By that he meant that while chasing perfection, you are not realising that you already reached goals that are good enough, and should be marked as wins. Reaching a goal that is good enough also marks a point to reassess status and perhaps find new goals to reach rather than chasing perfection on the narrow path you are on.
I have always found that to be great advice. Living up to it is often difficult, though.
10:00 you crack me up! :D
All the time...LOL
@Living Soul Why? People like you need to stop this behavior. It's is just weird to interject things like this in random places. For the record, I am not against this but there are people who are....and if you want to attract, inspire or make a difference in someone's life....let them seek you out or ask for it.
James, Mr. Popsys formally, you operate magically on both the entertaining/light-hearted level while also on the more practical and serious level provide great advice and information. A delicate balancing action, clearly, to do both levels successfully since one could easily try to do both and accomplish neither. Good stuff then. Thx.
You're advice is sage, given we're always exploring new beginnings in technique, style & genre, so it doesn't hurt to be reminded.
I love those videos! It always you to reground yourself or get back on the track when your off. And just motivates to carry on bc everyone has the same progression to go through, faster, slower, everyone at their own pace. Thank you!
I loved it when you talked about your phone signal and Emily... nothing to apologize for, lol... just means your a thoughtful husband. I always enjoy your honesty and transparency regarding photography James. As you have said before, there are many photographers out there, but I find that there aren't many like you. Grateful for the many ways you have shared your insights on growing our skills and that's what keeps me coming back to see what you have to teach me. Cheers James!
Thank you for showing us Emily’s baby bump! Emily you’re beautiful! Can’t wait to see the little one. James , great video as always!
For every photo seen, there's hundreds or thousands that haven't been. This is definitely true with astrophotography, but then again that literally requires stacking numerous images in order to get higher signal to noise ratios, as well as get better detail. It isn't unheard of to hear of a single image having hundreds of subs involved, doubly so when you add in flat frames, bias frames, and dark frames in order to get even more signal out of the noise.
With enjoying the here and now... Ohhh yeah, definitely a useful thing to make sure one is doing. I ~finally~ managed to get my paws on some of the lenses that have been on my "I'd love to get list", but I didn't focus on getting them. Always felt that I'd get them when I got them. Sooooo can't wait to take the 15mm f1.7 and 42.5mm f1.7 out for a spin...
One of your more enjoyable, informative videos, not for the photography, more for the update on Emily and the bump. She's looking well. 😊🙏
As a brand new camera person.. I wouldnt even dare call myself a new photographer yet, I think your videos are an awesome help. Thank you. I've always loved capturing images and finally got myself a second hand eos 2000d so really looking forward to learning something new
do you create photos? if so you're a photographer.
Good points and humble outlooks, some good light humour thrown in too. The days of looking at equipment and the next best lens will ( as you said ) pay no result to great/good photography. The best thing is to get out there, experiment and enjoy yourself. We learn more by trying than we do thinking of trying. Chocolate sound neat.
Hello James, glad to see your waffle-around-video... So your partner is pregnant. That's great news! I'm happy for you two! Cheers
My perfect camera is the used, castaway one that gives me the best value for my $$$. My best shot this year was taken with a camera I bought used way under market value, a 20 year old Sigma lens I scored cheap on Ebay and an adapter I found in a pawn shop for way less than it was worth. Part of the fun is the hunt I guess.
I have been with you on your journey since almost the beginning, it's most noticeable in seeing your beard turn white! Gandalf the photographer! :) :)
A less cheesy way to say it, regarding the goal quote, is: "If you aim at nothing, you'll hit it every time" which I've most heard attributed to Zig Zigler.
Thank you for your advice. I just recently discovered your videos, and I am loving them. Is always good to find a channel about photography that focus on photography and not just on having the best and latest gear. Two videos in and already subscribed.
Great video! Thanks for the encouragement and videos. You are one of the "real" UA-camrs, sharing the whole journey, not just the best shot.
I enjoy your 'tips" videos a lot. It's definitely NOT preachy or comes across as you know it all. It comes across more as, "avoid the mistakes I learned the hard way' and do this instead...." Emily looks wonderful. Baby appears to be growing nicely. woo hoo!
Hi James, One of the many things I really value about your videos is your opinion. In a world were opinions are all too often stated as facts your presentation is refreshing and gives me hope. Anyone who comes away from watching your channel thinking you are acting like a know-it-all... Well, they have a dirty filter which needs to be cleaned. Keep it up James. As always I come away with any number of sparks to follow.
It’s looks like previous commenters agree with this sentiment, but I still want to comment my piece as well: I really appreciate this video and find it very helpful. I’ve just started back up with this hobby and a lot of the videos out there that I’ve found for “beginners” feel quite…out of touch. I’m not sure how else to describe it. It’s clear these folks are incredibly talented (as are you) but their recommendations don’t feel practical for someone who is trying to sort themselves out and figure out how to approach things. I really appreciate in how you’ve presented these concepts and look forward to checking out your other videos. Thanks!
working on number four ourselves, best tip here was that to stay in cell service with baby on the way.
thanks for this, your honesty is great at bringing your points home in an encouraging way.
Hi James, usual excellent standard of video, not preachy at all, as always, full of wisdom, humour and most importantly 'humility' in so much as you always offer 'opinions' and 'ideas' never saying how things must be done, or must look. I thought the enjoyment piece at the end was hugely important and such an easy trap to fall into, it took me a while to get out of that one... and I think it's one that you can easily fall back into, especially watching UA-cam with lovely new gear and stunning locations everywhere you look. Hope next few weeks go well for you, Emily and Bump!
I enjoy your manner. You come across as genuine, humble, thoughtful and earnest. I also like your sense of humour :)
I think this is one of your best videos ever!
Mike
Good advice James, I was out Thursday, great day but no keepers but as you say that’s the way it goes!!
I like that you were open about points like personal progression and number of photos. It's really nice to hear the more "unspoken" things facts of photography (especially when you are a photographer yourself) , and it shows more of your personality and genuineness
Recently, in a used 2004 photo book, I read that smaller-sensor cameras have more depth of field than large-sensor cameras. WHOA - this is news to me!! I have many cameras, mostly smaller sensor types (bridge, point-and-shoot, Micro 4/3). I have been using some full-frame cameras lately and was having trouble getting sharp pictures. With smaller sensors, I didn't worry much about aperture. Now I know why - it came automatically. But with larger sensors, aperture is important. For people moving up from smaller sensors to larger sensors, this is something to be aware of.
The depth of field with different sized images was something I puzzled over years ago until the answer dawned on me that it was down to the focal length of the lens, the image size had nothing to do with it.
For example a 300mm lens has shallow depth of field but is the standard lens on a 10X8 camera and obviously retains the same depth of field regardless of the image size.
I really appreciate how motivational this video is
Helpful? Yes, thank you! As a photog that is now 7 years in, these tips were great reminders of some inner thoughts that you may keep to yourself-like the trajectory map. Kudos, mate, much appreciated 😊
Very helpful, especially the dips and spikes in 'success' on the journey.
I wrote that comment too early, yes I suffer from worrying about the next thing (closes Fujifilm website tab).
Brutal Honest and straight to the point. Your a breath of fresh air. great advice get out enjoy the trip !
I like your advice videos. You're not stating the bleeding well obvious because 'common sense' is not so commonly practiced. Your precipitous switchback learning curve is much nearer the reality than the glib 'steep learning curve' - doesn't roll off the tongue as easily though. Also taking pictures 'about' something rather than 'of' something is a gem. Keep it up.
Top shout on the criticism issue it really does knock your confidence when you first hit the wall .
That graph... It perfectly captured my experience with photography! One day I shoot a picture where I'm really happy with, the next day all my pictures are crap.
James, I so enjoy your videos. You offer such great advice and you always make me smile. Good luck with baby bump!
4:21 seeing that camera just placed straight on the ground 😂
my hiking buddies (not photographers) always remark that I’m placing such expensive camera systems directly on the ground as I get stuff out of my pack
where else am I going to put it in the middle of this field?! 🤣 it’s a camera it’s got weather resistance it’ll be fine.
I actually bought another PD capture clip to wear on a photography belt just for this task. I transfer the camera to my belt and then can get food or other items out of my ruck while on the move even. It’s very nice. the thought of leaving a $4000 camera and lens combo 6 miles into the wilderness on a bench is my ultimate photography nightmare
I use Micro 4/3 simply because of the small size, especially the lenses.
People often say the sensor is too small, but as they say, a bad workman always blames his tools, and unless you blow the images up to the size of a house, you are not likely to spot any difference, and if you do make your images enormous, then forget full frame also, it's medium format territory you are in.
With a small system you are more likely to have the camera at hand when you actually need it, and any camera at hand is better than one that's in it's bag, or even worse in the car, because it's too bulky on that particular walk or excursion.
this is a type of video we watch over and over to keep humble and motivated. cheers mate. great content.
lol i've worn that type/colour of trousers before. a work suit. went to the loo, washed hands, and the tap was, let's say, powerful. enough said!
I really needed to hear this. It feels like we just sat down, shared our worries and now I feel like I'm not alone taking pics and feeling like this
I think the Dunning Kruger Effect plays a part in that line of progression too. Easy when you start out in anything to learn a few things & think you know everything. A steep drop follows in realising you don’t and then a slow progression up to probably being more of an expert than you’re comfortable admitting.
Cheers James, thought provoking & inspiring video. 👍🏻
OMG, I'm REAAAAALLY new to this hobby but this video touched me in a way. I mean, I always used smartphones since 2010, but never really felt like a photographer. Recently, after purchasing my 1st mirrorless, I've been searching for my old photos and I can hardly like about 125/150 of them. Which makes about 10 photos per year. I decided that from now on I need to raise my bar, even if there will be ups and down. Thousands of bad photos won't scary me or push me down anymore.
Spot on James! Not perfect by all means...
Jolly nice to hear your words of waffling wisdom, leaves me restored knowing not just me then 😁
So, yeah just had to tap on and say this lifted and re-encouraged moi
OhK well without further a waffle!
Its simply big THANX from me here,
finding my footing in Singapore trying too hard (maybe) sure to do better and rise above my troffs.
(especially after more waffles, will skip Guinness chocolate & enjoy a traditional pint of pudding)
PS, Only regret now... (To be fair I don't have many)
When Wales was almost on my doorstep (Accurate derivative for Essex boy relocation)
And no camera gear until now obviously.
As a newby, these tips were great, especially the concept of defining a goal to avoid the sense of disappointment going out shooting, and coming back with mostly rubbish!
I have just found your channel and trawling through your backlist which I am thoroughly enjoying and taking away loads of you useful advice, the one that has been the most revolutionary is takes lots of images. I follow a lot of landscape photographers and love their work but often feel quite disheartened when they go out take four shots and feel it's been a very satisfactory day, and I go out and fill half a memory card, I feel liberated to shoot more images.
PERFECT TIMING!! All your tips perfect for me as a beginner. I love the graphs of progress...very much a relief to know. Thanks James. Keep the advice coming for beginners!
The best phots of your life are yet to come mate. Starts in about 2 months! Good luck to you both.
This video is great and useful for beginners to avoid getting down about not always nailing great shots. Allowing yourself time to learn the skill of photography without harshly judging yourself will be beneficial to enjoy the craft and to maintain it for long term. Regardless if it’s a hobby or a profession. All of your vlogs are so entertaining and have a calming effect. Never stop them. They are great to watch with a cup of coffee in the early mornings or even before you head off to bed. Emily is great as well!
Great video, just found you after a friend gave me the heads up, love your points of view so very true on all counts. I'm lucky enough to live a stones throw from the gateway to Snowdonia and Crafnant is one of my favorite places for peace and tranquility, but those darn midges are a pest and brutal. Look forward to having a good binge watch of all your vlogs and excited to see the future ones.
This could not have been better timed, I just bought my first DSLR after taking interest and watching your channel for some time. I took an interest after playing with a polaroid (one of the little $80 toys my sister happened to get for herself) and decided to give it a go. Love all of the information and tips mate, cheers!
James, I like your videos so much, there are an inspiration for my own learning and growing in photography! thank you so much! great uplifting inspiring work, beautiful photos, wonderful creative making of your videos! and your are such a lovely human to listen to, I not only learn so much from you, I also feel often calm and comfortable watching your videos, while there is so much UA-cam and world craziness going on... greetings from Germany!
Enjoyed your video. Digital cameras are great ,you can take hundreds of images, trying different compositions ,close ups wide angle's etc. As you say failed shots are a learning process getting to know your camera etc ,finding out what works...biggest 1st tip for me when I started off was the old rule of thirds!
@13:00 you're not preachy at all. What keeps me coming back is your humour and humility, your insight and enthusiasm. I hesitate to say this because I don't want it taken wrong but...while I respect your photographic work, I'm not really a fan of your post-processing, and often not of the subject matter. But that's irrelevant to why I'm subscribed and keep returning. I feel like I learn something new from you every video, and getting a good chuckle is icing on the cake. There are other photographers whose final product speaks to me more strongly, but they aren't as engaging or insightful and I don't learn nearly as much. So keep on "preaching"! :)
Thanks for this video … especially the end where you mention to just enjoy going out with the camera! Indeed my mind was stuck at the equipment and photo editing lately… so thanks 😉🙏🏻
Somedays i'm taking hundreds of photos and other days i don't even take my camera out and i start to think is something wrong... then the next day i learn something new and it completely changes my level of photography. But yeah the line on the graph always goes upwards.
Thank you for making me realise that!
"How much coffee you've had". Can relate!!
Definitely helpful. I've so much to learn, and I don't even think I'm at the point of understanding my style or even preferred type but just learning to be happy out with the camera is so key.
Ups and downs are so typical with so many endeavours - has been for music so definitely keeping that end goal in mind is key.
Glad Emily and bump are doing well!
Such beautiful places you go to, must be so peaceful 😍
I'm at the start and I found this very kind and helpful. Thanks, James.
I’m to photography, love your entertaining approach, I have lots to learn and will be watching more of your videos.
As always a cracking watch James, the ‘enjoy the now’ piece, it’s one of those phrases that a lot of us hear but don’t quite take on board soon enough. Similar to the one used by a certain blue and yellow liveried flat pack store, “sometimes the little things can be the big things”!
I always find the advice and reminders helpful. Especially the one about needing to take hundreds or thousands of photos to get one you could put up on your wall. I must keep that in mind next time I get frustrated by my efforts!
Brilliant video James, not only in photography advice, but also life advice. Thanks heaps for this video, really did enjoy this one!!
I'm a Brit in the U.S, loving the banter (which I really miss). You're so funny just chatting, love it! wish me luck getting into photography, so far I'm rubbish. Can't figure out the settings on my canon 1100D. I've had it for years and thought I should have a go while I live in the Rocky Mountains.
Really like the last point.... I struggle with GAS (Gear Acquisition Syndrome).... Always looking for the next lens, camera, gadget. Its just so shiny... Thanks for the video as always :)
Very good & helpful observations. Thanks for sharing!
Really good vlog, pragmatic approach to anything in life usually ends up with a much better result than one that was achieved after a lot of stress. Glad you’re keeping us updated on imminent parenting…when you disappear for 6 months we’ll know you’re occupied in cleaning up green stuff rather than out photographing it 🤪
One of your best videos, great advice.