WHY I use a DSLR for Street Photography & How (Nikon D850)
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- Опубліковано 15 чер 2024
- In this video I am showing you HOW and WHY I use a DSLR for Street Photography. Let me know in the comment section fo you still use DSLR's in 2022 and how you use them!
Blog Post from Alex Coghe about DSLR's in Street Photography: alexcoghe.com/journal/are-dsl...
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#streetphotography #dslr #nikond850
TIMESTAMPS
00:00 Introduction to my DSLR Story
01:14 Why I chose a DSLR for Street Photography
02:52 How I use a DSLR for Street : Settings
05:02 Best of Street Photography 2021-2022
05:32 Street Photography Demonstration
08:14 Nikon D850 Tilt Screen
10:47 Mulled Wine Break and Nikkor 28mm 1.4 Talk
12:51 DSLR Street Photography Montage
14:39 Street Portraits with a DSLR
16:41 DSLR Focusing compared to Rangefinder
18:39 Closing words & my Final Thoughts
D850 is superb, the best camera I have ever used. Given its size, mode of operation, usability, ergonomics, and image quality, it stands out. The big OVF makes it special, and the charismatic glass adds to its appeal.
There is a certain feeling using a big Nikon DSLR that brings you back to the the days of the F2 and F3 SLR. The way a D780 feels that a Z6 just cannot compare. You said it best "it makes you feel like a photographer."
Agree, I also have and love the Nikon 28mm f/1.4E and it live's on my D850. I use the D6's for my main camera's, but the D850 is always with me for when I need it. It's awesome, because they now share the same CFexpress Type B card's and I can take my card out of my D850, put into my D6 and instantly transfer the images to my device's with the WT-6A. It's a wireless adapter that only fit's on the D5/D6...but it's 100% reliable and hasn't failed me once in many, many years going back to the D4/D4s. Once you set it up correctly it just works and it really helps for what I do, which is photojournalism or breaking news, sports and features/events for newspapers. Speed is everything in many of the instances I find myself in, like with wildfires here in Southern California. Getting information out and along with strong images, can really help the community and being first to have images is also important in 2023. I just like how I can share EN-EL18c's with all my camera's and I also love the option of 10fps with the D850 and MB-D18, but also be able to do without the grip when I want a lighter package! Great video! I subscribed!
Nice! I agree with a lot of what you said. I have a couple early FujiFilm cameras, which I love, but I did miss the OVF and seeing the world through the lens. When Nikon announced the end of their DSLR production I decided to pick up a camera while prices were reasonable, and ended up with a nearly new D4 and D800. Beasts, and I don't mind the size either. They cover everything I feel like shooting.
Hi Sam, I upgraded from The Nikon D7200 to The D850. I still like to use the D7200 with the 35mm or 50mm primes for street photography. The D850 I use for everything else. I'm glad to see you have come back to the DSLR platform for your professional photography work.
Excellent perspective on using a DSLR for street photography. Thanks Samuel. I have a Nikon D750 I use for street and everything else, plus a tiny Fuji X-T30 with a 27mm (42mm equiv) lens. It's very small and stealthy. But it also has virtually full frame coverage with focus points which is handy, especially coupled with the touch screen tap to focus and shoot capability.
You’ve definitely inspired me! I’ve always been a Pentax shooter but only now getting into their digital bodies. I’ve got the KP and all my film era Pentax glass to use. After shooting exclusively on film cameras I never got used to evf, so happy with the DSLR now, thank you!
I've had my eye on that 28mm for a while, I love the depth of field of the 1.4, and the images are superb, also have had the 40mm Voigtlander for a few years, along with the 58 which is superb also, depending on your style and what perspective you prefer. Cool video, good to see Hamburg lit up and people enjoying themselves. Alles gute aus Irland !
Thank you for a very thought provoking video. The question of size of the camera for street and travel photography has been my mind for a while. Coming from Nikon SLRs‘ I was somewhat taken back when I purchased my Nikon z5 and the lenses to go with it. I had considered changing to a Apsc Camera to bring down the size. But in the end I bought a bigger sling bag and now carry my Z5 everywhere. Your video has lots of vaild points like looking the part with a bigger camera. It does certainly build your credibility as a serious photographer.
Nice video and thoughtful distinctions between cameras I had noticed but not thought about myself. Thanks. I used a D800 on a trip to India and was amazed at how it was such a magnet for kids. School children would notice the camera from very far awaay and run up and demand(nicely) that their pictures be taken using their best portrait pose.
I agree with absolutely everything you said. :-) I comfortably use my Nikon D850 here in Sweden for both my commercial photography and for street photography, and as you say, people take you more seriously with a big camera than a small. I also use the trick to look at something else than the subject I'm shooting. When I need to be more subtle, I use my, surprise, Leica TL2. And I absolutely agree, when I shoot with the Leica, I always get comments about the camera, and how how wonderful they are.
Great video. I had been shooting with a Leica m10 for about a year. I loved the focusing mechanic and optical view finder when it worked. Ended up buying a used GFx 50r and adapting vintage glass. I still miss the optical view finder, but just hated having to wonder how long it would stay calibrated. I agree that having a bigger camera makes me feel more comfortable in the street.
Thank you Samuel! It's a surprising choice for me but, as the Dalai Lama said: People take different roads seeking fulfilment and happiness. Just because they're not on your road doesn't mean they've gotten lost.
What matters, I think, is how you feel while shooting and the outcome you get. My X100V makes my life easier in such environments as compared to my DSLR days but maybe I should try out again.
Anyway great video as always and always fascinating to see how you handle your photographic journey. Thanks again and take care!
I tried this at the weekend with a Nikon D850 and a sigma 35mm 1.4 - and I left autofocus active. I enjoyed it and got some good images. I still tried to hide what I was doing from people, which is harder but still sort of worked. I found I could take shots without always lifting it to my eye. And, unlike with my Leica, I'd say 9 out of 10 shots were in sharp focus, rather than 6 or 7 out of 10 with the Leica. I don't think I would have ever tried this if I hadn't watched this video. So thanks Sam for exploring this! But - I now don't know which camera I prefer.
been shooting with my D750 for a while on the street now... for me the biggest advantage is i get to experiment with different focal lengths.... especially longer ones! One of the 24-70 f2.8 on a DSLR is of course the classic combo and for streets it's great but i've been experimenting with 135mm lately and got some interesting results since i can shoot from so far away
Wonderful perspective and approach. I have mostly used my Sony a7iii, but last week I tried street with D800E and that Voightlander 40mm. It is different than mirrorless, but I will keep practicing with D800E. Great point about the 28mm lens and subject being on the edge of the frame.
I shoot with my d610, but mostly with my D3 with af lenses. However, sometimes I use my 28mm ai or 58mm Voigtlander for manual focus. I love using DSLR because it does feel like I'm a photographer and I am always open for street portraits and I get asked a lot for street portraits whenever I use my D3.😊
Thanks Samuel!!! So much fun watching your videos!!!
Thanks Sammy :)
This truly is one of my favorite videos about photography of all time. But not because of the DSRLs, but because of aura, structure or style or I don't know what it is. But the fact is that after each viewing, after switching to another content, it brings me back again and again. Probably the main reason I love Samuel Streetlife
I don't know why I only saw your comment now but thanks a lot!! Means a lot to me :)
Thank you for putting up this video. I totally agree your opinion on the DSLR. I own a D850 as well. Despite the fact that DSLR is already a thing of the history,frankly speaking it does not bother me at all. The choice of camera system one uses is a very personal thing. In the world of ever changing new tech trends, an old fashion thing will one day become rare like a piece of antique, sought after by some admirers and collectors.
I'm really glad you made this video! Not only do I only have DSLR's, but I also still have several 35mm film SLR's too. I plan to try to shoot some street photography with both types of cameras! i'd like to get a mirrorless camera, likely a Canon or Fujifilm, but I'm going to have to save a while for a body, and 1-2 lenses. I already have lenses that will work with the 2 DSLR's I have, and more lenses are cheaper than buying mirrorless lenses, particularly RF lenses.
The 2 DSLR's I have are both Canon's. the Rebel T6, and the original 6D. The 6D is a recent addition in July of this year, but it's quickly became my #1 used camera. I use a small number of Canon EF lenses with it, mostly the 50mm f/ 1.8 STM. I also have an adapter to use a couple Nikon AI lenses I got super cheap with a FM10 body I ended up selling. They are a 35-70mm f/ 3.5-4.8, and a 35mm f/ 2.8. I've mostly used the 35mm, but it need to use the 35-70mm more. i got an adapter that has a focus confirmation chip, so that helps a ton with manual focus too!!
On the film side I have a T50, T70, T90, New F-1 (80's model) w. motor drive, and an Elan 7e w/ battery grip. The Elan &e is my main film camera, but I use the others, particularly the T90 from time to time. My F-1 is not in the best cosmetic shape, but is still trucking along! I'd like to maybe get a nice looking one someday, as well as the AE Finder so I can use Aperture Priority with it.
I remember going through Nikon's catalog as a kid and saw low light pics taken by Nikon D850. It became my dream camera right then and there. Now there are a lot of mirrorless camera better than it, but I will buy it someday when I can.
Your first video of why you bought a D850 inspired me to get back to DSLRs !
I have been shooting with Fuji mirrorless cameras for a few years now, but I started my photography journey as a kid with Nikon DSLRs, and I wanted to get back to a camera with an OVF and a loud mirrorslap
I finally stopped from debating with myself on which camera to get, and got myself a 15 year old Nikon D700 and I've been absolutely loving it ! (runner up was the D600, but the camera didn't inspire me as much)
I would say that it is definitely a luxury to have several camera systems, but the ability to switch from my X-T2 to my D700 depending on the context in which I shoot and what I want to get from teh camera is really nice, and even though I didn't need the D700 on top of my Fuji stuff, I definitely don't regret buying it !
I too shoot Fuji mirrorless but a Nikon D600. I’ve read or listened to scores of “sensor size does / doesn’t matter” arguments, but IMO I’ve found that having both formats is, or can be, really useful. One example would be long telephoto shooting…compare the Fuji 55-200 XF zoom to a full-frame lens in that focal range. The Fuji would be smaller, lighter, cheaper, and have a longer [perceived] “reach” than the full frame version. That might not matter as much for a pro studio shooter, but definitely for the non-pro landscape guy who carries gear on longer hikes.
Happy New Year...I use a D7500/ 17-55 2.8 Nikkor ,very sharp at 2.8 for night / day street.. always a challenge w/o VR, really liked this video,thank you and best wishes.
Hi Samuel. This is the first vid I've seen of yours. I subscribed. I use Nikon D5600 and a 40mm Voightlander Ultron also. Very light. On a crop sensor the field of view is like a 60mm on a full frame, so it's like a short telephoto. I like your photos. Nice work.
Yeah I just purchased the Nikon D850 and love it
Thank you so much for instilling the idea that the D850 does work for street photography. I admit, I was close to despair when I realise the D850 is cumbersome for street photography and travelling (got it cheap, used) . I use my nikon z50 instead but nothing beats the D850 dynamic range. Your video strengthen my hope that it can be done. That and the need to buy a voigtländer lens! Now I need an excuse for the missus on why I need another lens..
First time viewer here, great vid. I enjoyed the shot at 5:29 :)
Nikon (D80) was my first ever DSLR camera. In fact, t was my first personal camera I bought with my own money. I learnt basic photography skills using that, enjoyed a lot because it had many tactile buttons and was built like a tank. Later I got interested in portrait photography and eventually sold my system for a Canon 7D (original) in the Canon world, I loved the color science a lot and now I'm using a R5 and recently got a "daily carry" Fujifilm (X-T5) for street. Again Fuji brings my the joy of having many buttons on the body. I think when it comes to photography tactility and manual operation makes the entire process more fun and enjoyable. I don't own a DSLR anymore but this video makes me to want a Nikon again 😃😅
Nikon D850 best DSLR ever made!!! Love to use mine D850 with a Zeiss Distagon 35mm f/2.0 ZF.2 lens for street photography.
Recently added a “‘smaller” setup for street photography: Nikon Z9 with a Z 50mm f/1.2 lens (Nikon make not yet a native Z 35mm lens). All your mentioned benefits is also true for this setup.
I gave my D750 to my adult daughter and shoot everything with my Z6ii. I found you from your ZF video and I track with your general ethos! Fun content! 👍🏾
Film cameras are obsolete in terms of functionality compared to digital, but some people (many people) still using them, not just for the final result, more for the user experience, for the PROCESS of using them.
I think DSLR becomes more of that. It's not about comparing specs in any website online. It's more about the user experience and the process of taking the photos, rather than the final result you get.
This is a great video about feelings, user experience, process, and not just about what any other youtube channel would do reading specs of a new camera he never has used in real life. And at the end, there is even a friendly message: it's not necessary to compare or declare what is better, you can use both of them.
Thank you for the video.
I also use a DSLR for street photography. This genre doesn’t have any commercial value; people do it just for the joy of photography. So do I.
I use a Canon APS-C DSLR with an 18-135mm native kit lens for this purpose. This helps me capture amazing and exciting moments at times, when necessary from a distance as well.
I don’t care what others use or what chunk of the market the “smartphone update” cameras occupy; IMO DSLR is unbeatable. The fundamental difference being - lag-free OVF that works at the speed of light.
Thanks again.
Street photography has pretty good commercial value at the moment. The majority of prints being sold by most print makers are street photos. Definitely not the same as other genres but I would say it's none at the moment.
Sam - great video! I have two D850s, a Leica M10-R and a Leica M10 Monochrom. All of them are great tools, but I still find the D850s to be the most versatile (not to mention most durable and most dependable). They may not be the newest bodies on the market, but they still produce breathtaking images - and that's the only thing that should matter..
Interesting to hear because right now I am deciding between a m10R and a d850 and I can’t decide yet
I really like your videos. I watched this particular video for a few times, and then sold my set of Fujifilm X-M1 and bought a D800 body. I will buy a voigtlander 40mm too based on your recommendation after saving enough money so that I will have a similar set like yours! 😂🙏🏻 Keep up the good work. I look forward to your new street photography videos with your Nikon combo to learn from you!
Great vidoe. I am still using my DSLR (I have 3) for birding and travel photography. The lag free OVF experience is great.
great video samuel and DSLR are still great camera to have and you in street photography and also in paid photography. Leica cameras are great but getting expensive and didn`t see the reason to spend more money to it. great nikon D850 video 😁👍
Bro, i started a year ago on my nikon D3200 and still do. Love it! i have my eye on the D850 for my upgrade
Very interesting topic to talk about
Well I did actually started my street photography journey with a Canon 1000D
And I do still use many DSLR cameras until this day
I recently bought a used Nikon D70S with a used Tamron 70-300 mm both costed me around 300 Euro
Well it became my favorite to carry even though it’s kinda heavy with the zoom lens
Many street photographers think these days that they need expensive Mirrorless camera like a Sony A7 iii or a Fuji XT4 to do street photography
That fact that this is not true
Here you are Samuel you are using a DSLR and many like you and me still appreciate the old OG cameras
Well I do advice you to buy a cheap Nikon with CCD sensor like a Nikon D70S or Nikon D200
The CCD sensor has its own magic
Thank you for this video and please keep doing good videos
Hope to meet you again like we did at the Berlin Safe Light Meeting
Have a good weekend…
Ich liebe die D700. Der optische Sucher. Knöpfe und Schalter für alles. Robust wie ein Panzer. Schwer wie ein Backstein. Der Spiegelschlag „stanzt“ das Gesehene auf die Karte. Die harmonischen Farben und Film-ähnliches Rauschen des legendären 12 MP Sensors.
Sehr gut gesagt. Ich konnte Deine D700 förmlich schmecken haha.
@@SamuelStreetlife Mission accomplished. Hehe.
Geht mir mit meiner D3x genauso. Ich wollte ursprünglich auch eine D700, die D3x lag mir aber irgendwie besser in der Hand. Sind im Geiste Brüder...oder Schwestern.
I use a DSLR for street photographs along with a mirror-less camera. My DSLR is Pentax. Pentax has become the only maker to manufacture DSLRs😢. My mirrorless one is Lumix. Lumix is lighter and smaller due to the micro four-thirds type. Compared to Lumix, I have not had any inconveniences using Pentax. I will use Pentax cameras until they give up making DSLRs😄.
I shoot with a Pentax K70 and a 35 mm f2.0 for street photography. I am kind of interested in the Lumix GX85 but I will keep going with the Pentax, love the ergonomics, the viewfinder, the IBIS etc.
What a great video!! Thank you for this testimonial, I would absolutely love to have an 850, such an awesome camera. I could care less about the mirrorless wave, the D850 is a powerhouse and anyone that has one should feel a sense of pride. Cheers and happy New Year!
D810 for me
Great video as usual with the usual intelligent rationale !
Still one of the Channels that over a long period, doesn’t grate on me.
I just bought a D850 with a tamron 24-70g2 lens. Cant wait to get it!! my last nikon camera was a D90.. loved it.
I am getting into street photography (and photography overall, for what matters...) and I am proudly and happily using a D750 that I bought 2nd hand to upgrade from my old (and very entry level) D80. I love it because I feel that this camera is helping me a lot to learn photography while providing me with the joy to get very satisfying results from my progress. I am now considering to get a 2nd camera (more "handy", like a x-t30) for more casual situations but I can't think of leaving the D750 behind. Thanks a lot for your inspiring and honest views on photography!
that was very refreshing to hear, seems like a DSLR is looked at as old technology but I still use mine for general purposes photography👍
You hit the nail on the head about Dslrs on the street. Love your honesty 🤙🏼
Thanks!
Great video, you are always funny and chill!
Sometimes I use an old d700 for street. it only has a mechanical shutter so you always hear the "cachung" when shooting. People don't care that much, if they "catch" you just smile, say thank you and move on, never had a problem
Great video. Thanks! I got that ultron recently and been using with my D750. Complete joy to use. My first manual focus lens and I am in love.
Nice!!! :) enjoy!!!
Nikon D7000 and 16-85mm zoom. I have wanted to learn some street/urban photography but feel self-conscious about the possibility of offending people. I was thinking about getting something smaller to be sneakier but appreciate your perspective regarding larger cameras! I am content to stay with what I have (I love the feel of my D7000; fits my hands perfectly)! Nice video. Nice channel! Nice vibe! ;-)
Thanks for sharing a your thoughts and experience with the DSLR. I use both the Pentax full-frame and the Fujifilm X100V for both street and landscapes. I tend to use Pentax when I want to take my time to compose a shot, but use the Fuji more for spontaneous shots. Both cameras have all manual dials, optical viewfinder, and weather sealing, which is perfect for my type is shooting, I tend to limit the Pentax to shots I might want to print or sell, and use the Fuji is more for creative shots or for experimentation.
Nice! Sounds like a great set to choose from :)
Damn the quality photos coming out of this D850 and 40mm!!! This is one killer combo
I like optical viewfinders to the point that I replaced my FF mirrorless with a Canon 6D in October. First thing I did was to go to our State Fair and had a great time shooting for three hours. In a (very) noisy environment no one hears the shutter and focusing is almost instant. I also use it to shoot events. You need some different techniques vs. mirrorless and it isn’t quite as convenient, but it can be very capable. Interesting comment about people’s perceptions of large cameras vs. small ones. I had never thought it could sometimes be an advantage to be more noticeable rather than less. I will be thinking about that when I approach people to take a portrait.
Some good points there. I have not used a DSLR for street photography for ages (d70, d50) My wife loves to use our Canon 1D2n, and gets complements like Cool camera...
I love this video. The videography of the winter fair was fantastic. Loved the photo of the two girls behind the glass case of the "picker" game. The video was validating for me, I shoot with a Pentax ASP-C DSLR with a 35 mm 2.0 lens for street photography. I love the feel of it. It has a flip screen which I find useful for candid street. To be honest I've looking at the Richo GR or a Panasonic GX50 - I like small - but my current system is pretty compact with a small prime or pancake - and I could use the money better for printing my work and doing a show. Thanks again for a truly awesome video, you have a very kind demeanor as a presenter.
Thanks you for the nice comment!! Well if you feel happy with your current setup then I would work on prints and shows :) Then buy yourself a GR as a reward afterwards hehe.
I have a bunch of cameras, film and digital, but I often use and enjoy my Pentax K-1 when out and about. It’s such a great camera.
If I didn't have all my glass from my Sony/Minolta A-mount days I would have gotten the K-1 with those Limited lenses for sure...that blackout version they made has been calling my name.
Wonderful film. I have had many similar thoughts regarding older DSLR's with vintage glass. Thanks for your thoughts.
Good to hear Greg! DSLR‘s with vintage lenses are great fun.
You make some great points about how camera size can be advantageous. I find that when I absolutely have to get the photo, shooting my Nikon Df w/ a small prime AF-D lens w/ a physical aperture ring and an old school metal lens hood puts me in a pro photojournalist mind set. And people respond differently because it reminds them of the pro Nikons of old.
D850 is the last truly great DSLR. It is already a classic. And I want one even though I have a Z7 as I want the lenses directly on the f-mount. Plus the prism of this full frame is stunning!
I have a Nikon Z5 with a 40 F2 Nikkor and enjoy this kind of photography as well because using my D700 is too noisy and too obvious. I can also shoot silently with the Z5 which is less money than a D850 and “since I also used a Leica M3 in my younger years I find using a mirror less camera is very much like using a rangefinder with a quiet shutter and no mirror slap. I agree with you about seeing your image and your depth of field with a dslr or mirror less camera as apposed to a rangefinder and using hyper focal distance for street shooting in a nice way to zone focus and still get good results because with mirrorless I have been able to use vintage MF lenses from many other brands such as Pentax, Konica, Helios which made excellent lenses with lots of character. Thanks for sharing Regards Gerry
Sehr sympathisches Video. Ich bin ein Photo-Dinosaurier, der seine Wurzeln noch in der Film-/Analog-Zeit hat. Meine Lieblingskamera ist ebenfalls die D850, Ich hatte bisher viele Nikons und habe bisher noch nie das Gefühl gehabt, etwas zu versäumen, wenn ich nicht auf Spiegellose umsteige. Dein Video über die Leica Q3 hat mich auch gebremst, dies nun zu tun. Obwohl mein Rücken natürlich gerne etwas Entlastung hätte....
I have a Q and a D850 for street photography. I agree with what you said. 🎉
I love your content! Thanks for sharing
Haha😁, you know, I was shooting with a SLR camera before your video about the Leica Q2 mini. I sold a Nikon DSLR, with a standard lens and an additional 35mm 1.8 lens, I bought a "Leica Q2 mini" 📷 and I still don't regret it. You've probably already sold your Leica Q2 mini, but I'm glad for such a small, light, serious camera👍. Thank you🙏!)
I recently bought a Canon 5DSr paired with the pancake 40mm f2.8 also using a 58mm f2 Helios 44-2, amazing combo
I have a very nice Olympus mirrorless but it's the Nikon F2 with vintage glass that I aways grab when out for a city walk.
Shooting with a second hand Rebel T3 (Don't want to use my main for streets haha) and an AF Broken 50mm! Such a nice combo
Dude. Started following you since lockdown and really love your work. Always do. Super glue. Hahahha
Nice one :) thanks for sticking around then! And is there anything that super glue can‘t fix? Haha
I feel strong energy of old good Samuel from this video like you realy enjoy the filming process yourself! Thank you for your work
Definitely helped having a filmer with me! Faster workflow and I feel less stressed. But interesting that you noticed a change in energy. Will try to keep that alive :)
@@SamuelStreetlife work at your own pace, on the topics you enjoy, in the style you prefer, we'll always support you
I sold my Leica M10 and GRiii. All really good cameras but I bought a Nikon F100 film DSLR w a 50mm 1.4 AF AND a GfX 100s. I’m now producing the best work I ever have.
The M10 and griii were great but for ME, I ended up shooting them like everyone else in the street. Good photos but I never found my personal style….
I share your opinion about how it feels to use a compact and like a dsrl, they really are very different sensations, I have a Canon sx710hs and a Canon 80D and I use both for street photography, obviously each one has its advantages and disadvantages as you have pointed out, but without a doubt when I use the 80D I also see that people perceive me as a photographer unlike the compact one, greetings Samuel!
Good presentation! Well-done! Liked. Yes, indeed, I was using a Nikkor 28mm AI-S, a Nikkor 45mm AI-P, and a Voigtlander 40mm on Nikon DSLRs, to use my bird/wildlife cameras to dabble with some street shooting, often using zone/scale focusing, before I decided to add the Leica M system. The silvery-finished 45mm f/2.8P, especially, has seemed non-intimidating to people. A tiny lens on a huge camera has been a way to start some friendly conversations. And, yes, I have received compliments, regarding my DSLRs.
My wife was my first mentor, guiding my start with interchangeable-lens cameras, and she made certain that I learned to be comfortable with manual-focusing, because macro shooting was my primary reason for becoming more serious about photography. At the time, manual focusing was very much the norm for macro shooting. (It is amazing, these days, with improved AF, how well a D5 or D850 can AF, at MFD, with a Micro-Nikkor lens!) So, when zone/scale focusing is not feasible, I have a decent keeper rate, when manually focusing, using the focusing aids that are visible in the lower part of the viewfinder.
And, I will still use a Nikon DSLR or SLR when walking-about, in a city or town, with a camera, especially when I want to use a 28mm, 40mm, 45mm, or 60mm lens. Adding the Leica M system did not end my DSLR/SLR shooting. (This iPad would not let me edit, to add this.)
First street photography experience with an old Nikon D100, I like also the feeling to be clearly recognized as a photographer and not someone stealing photos. And I noticed that you should be confortable to take the photo...and the overall quality of the shots was better.
A lot of these points resonate with me. I'm currently using two systems (Pentax K / Sony FE) plus some GRs and contemplating moving back to purely Pentax since that's the system that I enjoy using the most. I learned to photograph on a Pentax DSLR and still using a K mount DSLR feels like home. The IBIS and the durability are great but I think ultimately it's the ergonomics and the OVF that keep me enthralled. I totally understand what you said about feeling more like a photographer with a DSLR in hand.
I just wish Pentax was better at marketing outside of Japan. It's been a long time since I've seen any Pentax or for that matter DSLR marketing in Finland.
I also shoot with a Pentax DSLR - the K70. I also love the OVF and the ergonomics of the camera. I recently purchased a used 35 mm f2.0 which is an old film lens and it's fairly compact set up for street photography. One thing I do like about the K70 over the higher end Pentax cameras is that it has a flip screen which I use quite a bit now. And yes IBIS is a must for me on any camera. I can shoot motion blur hand held at 1/15 of a second for example.
@@soulfamilychat The flip screen is definitely a nice benefit on the lower end bodies, the K3 III screen is nice and has good viewing angles but it's still not a perfect replacement for a proper flip screen. Also as you mentioned being able to natively use some great old film era glass is also a benefit of the Pentax K mount as well as many other DSLR mounts.
Pentax's awful marketing does have a slight benefit - you can often pick up Pentax DSLRs and gear for very very good prices on the second hand market, probably because people don't know much about it given the lack of marketing for their gear.
Sam, I switched 18 mths ago to Fuji X-E4 for street and city travel photography but while the small size and cute factor is nice the ergonomics are not nearly as good as my big full frame Pentax K-1 DSLR. I almost always use the Fuji but last weekend I took my Pentax with 43mm f1.9 (which is a pancake lens) and it feels so good to shoot street with after some time away from it. It’s a big body similar to the D850 etc so the small 43mm looks a bit odd but I tend to agree nobody is in doubt that it’s a serious camera when they see you and that can be a positive to the situation. But different people react different ways. Either way the ergonomics/ handling is better with my DSLR. Less fiddling. Nail the shot
Nice to hear that Brett! Yes every camera attracts different attention. Always good to know how to use that to your advantage.
Was waiting for this!!!
Makes sense. Now wondering if I shoot pick up an Canon DSLR for my manual focus EF-mount lenses. They look enormous with the adapter on my R5, but are actually small and great for zone focusing.
Great video.
I don’t use a dslr
, but I use the voigtlander 40mm on a canon r6. Love it.
Scooped up a virtually unused Nikon Df and am re-learning DSLR methods after a year with a Leica M digital and numerous mirrorless cams.
Highly recommend the 28/2.8 AIS (not the AI) if you want a small manual wide. It's so sharp (CRC corrected) and it focuses so close.
It was so good to get the DF a few months ago. I am happy with its OVF. I see the world through the optical view finder.
The rendering of this nikkor 28 is amazing here.
Very friendly video completely down to earth and it really motivates me to use mine for street photography too. I have a long held idea to place myself at a busy place where lots of tourist do sight seeing in my town taking pictures in front of the famous buildings and churches that I later might send them on their address. Could be fun to get into contact with people from all over the World. I presume you took the video sequences with the D850 too or was it just with the mobile phone? Your view on how people react to the different cameras was an eye opener but I in my case I probably wouldn't cover the brand of my D850 as it could attract people for getting a perfect picture.
The first ad that came up to me while watching this video was a Nikon ad!! Well done Sam, “senpai noticed you”. 😂
Hi Samuel, thanks for the vid. I love using my X100V, but sometimes I really enjoy using my Pentax KP for all the reasons why l bought the X100! Crazy aren't we!
Haha. The X100V or X-Pro cameras would be the only mirrorless cameras I would enjoy using for street (When I want to use a viewfinder). I just prefer OVF's so much more than EVF's. The X100V is awesome! :) Enjoy the hell out of it
Yes I wander with a dslr or Fm2 with film using the same lenses. I choose small lenses to reduce weight and just prefer this to a rangefinder. There are times when I just need to be more compact as possible, but I reduced tools number to the bare minimum and slrs are just a perfect balance to do all you need. Add a compact and I'm ok.
I’d be lying if I said I wasn’t interested in a dslr now! Beautiful images!
Agreed. I put black Gaffer’s tape over the name so it draws no curiosity or questions. Particularly important during video.
Oh yes! I just do it because I prefer the look of it and I don‘t like seeing a big Logo on my cameras. But your point makes so much sense. I often had people ask me about the camera because they read the brand name. Covering up the branding definitely minimizes the amount of comments and questions you get while shooting.
Thanks Samuel for sharing your experience with great comments & results.....I agree with your reasoning for using bigger cameras...I love my D500 & I still use my D7100 for street photography & also other photography interests....I am only a hobbyist & just love taking pics of whatever interests me on the day or night.... cheers from Australia 😀
Great to hear that Robert! Have fun with your Nikons :) They all take great pictures.
I'm curious Robert, what lenses do you use for street with the D500 / D7100? I shoot Canon for work and Lumix GX9 for street, but I love the colours and tactile feel of the D7100 for snapping pics of the family. I have it around the house for "whenever" photos. But I've never got on with it on the street because I struggle with the 50 mm equivalent. What do you use?
@@jonbuscall8901 hi...I am just a hobbyist but I do use the 50mm lens and also the kit lens Nikon 18-70mm. Another option I use is the Nikon AF-P 18-55mm lens for its small size. I also have the Tokina 12-24mm lens which is a great lens that I photograph graffiti etc with...I only buy s/h lenses....any long distance shots I have a 70-300mm and all lenses work ok on both my D7100 & D500... cheers 😀
@@robertdavis1255 Thanks Robert. Appreciate you taking the time and for the insight. I will take a look
I use a Canon EOS 40d occasionally for street shots. I've actually been questioned about my EOS M, and some of my film cameras more than the DSLR. I don't think I've ever been stopped with the 40d.
I agree with all your points.
Lovely seasonal video Samuel!
Thanks Zach!
I shot a book about Carnivals in South Texas. I used a Nikon D300 with a Nikkor 20mm f 3.5 AIS. It was a fabulous camera for street (carnival) photography. DSLR photography is my preference. If it ain't broke, don't fix it.
Kudos for brining DSLRs why and how video. Maybe Canikon will realize it is still important photography tools for many of us.
I hope so!
I use a D850 for street photography, but it's new and I'm still getting used to it. It takes really sharp images and I'm considering getting a 28mm 1.4 Sigma, the Nikon is just too expensive. I have been using a Nikon 50mm 1.8, I have two Nkon zooms but they are both f4 lenses. I really like the wider apertures!! Thanks for the video, it helps to know someone else is using the same camera.
I also use the 50/1.8 on the D800. It's such a good lens and the price it is a bargain. I also have the Zeiss distagons and voitlander 58/1.4. Amazing glass.
Great video. I use a D700 + 35mm f:2… very nice but it is heavy when you carry it a whole day. And very loud (sometimes it is annoying).
Hello Samuel, happy new year for starters. Hope you are back on track on every level now. I need some advice from you please. I had the nikon d4s but had to sell it at one time. I have bought the fuji xt5 now but mis the old nikon. You think i'll get used to the fuji (feels so like a toy) or should i re-sell it and buy the d4s back? Whats your opinion on this please. Grtz fromBelgium, Erwin.
Thanks for sharing Samuel, very interesting video, I have a lot similar experiences in that I appreciate all the advantages of the OVF and the variety of lenses of my D850, for street and travel photography, even after I also started using mirrorless cameras. Unfortunately where I live in the last few years (Middle East), big cameras with bulky lenses are usually seen with suspicion, especially by Security guards (lots of them around), plus, the effect of the "professional" is the opposite here: If you have a big camera, you must be a professional, so it's NOT OK to take people's picture or to take pictures of private properties or shops or Government buildings etc etc, because you may profit from it without a permit, etc.or worse, who knows what nefarious plans you have etc, you get the idea... And Security guards have to spice up their lives too, you understand, so you offer free entertainment being an easy victim for them. But with a small camera, you are just a tourist, so it's OK, especially if you are using your smart phone. So when I travel to Europe I occasionally prefer my DSLR but around here it's always the smaller cameras (Fujis or phone) that draw less attention and give you more freedom as a photographer. The Leica Q2 I also use falls somewhere in-between because it's quite small and compact compared to a DSLR but the lens is quire bulky for the size of the camera. So perhaps the best compromise for both worlds? ☺
Great video! I am thinking now to upgrade my Nikon d5100 to d850
I won a competition recently using my Nikon D800 and a Nikkor 20mm f1.8 mm lens, hand held
I normally use my Lumix GX9 walking around but the quality of my Nikon like yours is far superior 📷👍
Nice congrats for that :)
For the price, it's really hard to beat the 850, K1, or my personal fav, the Sony A99, and I think the Sony is the steal. A-mount glass is hella cheap and I'll put my $200 Minolta 35mm f/2 up against my $1500 Leica Summarit 35mm f/2.4 ASPH any day. I love shooting street with my M240, but with the A99 I can do everything AND street. My worry was size as I love how people don't notice my M, but in practice, nobody has seemed to care. I've even added Sony's "Remote Commander" to my tools, and now can have my camera around my neck and "compose" with my body and trigger the shutter with the remote. The biggest surprise on the A99 is how quiet the shutter is since it's SLT.
Happy New Year! The bigger the Carrera the more people want a portrait! I should do this! I use small cameras like Ricoh, but my DSLR is so much better!
Great video
D850 is great and yes the 28mm f/1.4 is also my favorite lens
You know what? Being a E lens, it’s fully compatible with the Leica SL cameras!!! Which makes you even closer to a Q experience !!!