Great video! I will say the ocf segment was a little confusing though. "You don't have to shoot ofc, until you have to".... Otherwise nice reassurance that doing things your own way is often the best thing to do.
One I hear a lot is : once you start charging, never shoot for free. OK I charge, but sometimes I want to shoot something special, and I have no inquiries that fit, because I've never shown this type of picture. Or sometimes I get asked about a collab with someone who inspires me, and if they're ok to shoot by my rules, why would I say no? I prefer shooting for free to get me started than staying at home doing nothing
Great video, John! Especially appreciate the segment on pricing. Breaking into a crowded, competitive market is hard, and you learn so much starting from the ground up. As you say, experience matters - or as I would put it, "you don't know what you don't know". Pricing ultimately reflects much more than your kit or your technical aptitude.
Absolutely! I hate when people tell other photogs to charge more just because they think it's going to bring the market down. You have to study your market and know where you fit it. And if your caliber and knowledge is worth what you're charging.
Great video! Another myth that's repeatedly told to me, is that you have to learn Photoshop, light room etc in order to be professional and successful. VS. Actually going out there and learn how to shoot and use your camera, until you know the limits. And some photography niches or photographers themselves don't even require any of that. 😂 And then of course the good old "your camera is not big enough, you can't be professional, you're just doing it as a hobby in your free time"
After a year of shooting just for fun, I decided to get serious about it. And the info that made the biggest impact was learning how to use proper settings (ISO, exposure, shutter speed). LR/PS can help you get creative or at times fix imperfections. But those softwares alone can't make a good photo, fully agree with you :)
@@miguelm6307 absolutely agree! I try to get as close to the result I wanna get while shooting. I don't like when I have to spend many hours in post processing, so I'm trying to keep my work flow as easy and fun as possible. This way I can focus 100% on the creativity. And that's what photography is all about to me. 🙏🏻
This is all so true! The difference it made in my work flow when Iearned and understood the camera settings a bit better was massive. I went into lightroom and was shocked at how little I needed to tweak a photo😅 I rarely ever spend more than 2hrs on a batch of 50 photos anymore which is really cool
I agree! I have been shooting equine events where I print onsite for literally 15 yrs. I learned to shoot in camera the best I can in jpeg because I do not have time to do much post processing on over 200 images. I make a living at it and stay as busy as I want and hardly ever use photoshop!
I like the blunt honesty. And yes, most if not all couples don't care about the camera or lens you use, as long as it gets good results, they're pretty much fine with it.
I love your character! Thank you so much for being yourself and sharing your heart. You've really eased my mind about getting a full frame camera (or just an expensive camera in general), but what about dual card slots? Should I consider a camera with one of those?
John thank you so much for this advice! You are so right! I was recently told by another platform host that because I make money doing weddings, I need to upgrade to a full frame camera. I’m currently shooting with the Fuji XT4. At first I went into panic mode thinking now I need to upgrade again… But you’re right just focus on your craft and learning your camera no one cares if you’re using the “Bugatti” of cameras.
I hate when people question my pricing. That's my business. If I don't charge enough, or charge too little, that's my problem. I've had people criticize me that I'm bringing down the market with my affordable pricing. And, not to toot my own horn, but I charge less and shoot better than some photographers in my area who are full-time photographers. Why? Because I love shooting weddings and strive to give couples great photos of their day. Thanks for this video JB4. You are the man!
EXACTLY! People just like to point fingers. But at the end of the day someone else’s prices aren’t the reason you aren’t booking. That sounds great keep it up!
Thats true man! 🤓👍🏻 Because of this i switched from Sony FF to Fujifilm. I like the style and the feeling to shoot with fujifilm. Make more sense to me...
Amen John! Especially to the pricing issue! Another photographers price will not cost you customers and if it does they are not the ideal client for you.
I agree 100% with you !! the only time that I might use OCF is for details shots of the rings and jewelry ...I used to carry light stands to put my flashes at receptions, but I stopped doing it about 4 years ago...LOL ( I use a "dome" on top of my Godox flash now )....I use prime lenses only and I use crop sensor cameras ( fuji XH1)
Well said! I learned that instead of wasting time on photography groups I can spend my time improving my website, doing blogs and other useful things. Since I left most of the groups I spend less time on social media. On the full frame question: I shoot both and much prefer the full frame for less noise in low light situations.
The "you need full frame" is the one that kills me. I have an entry level ASPC and a pro FF. Almost 90% of the times I go do wildlife photography, I use my APSC. Can anyone tell the difference? I strongly doubt it. Unless you're doing high-end commercial stuff, no one cares about your gear. I've sold photos shot with my APSC to companies. My friend shoots for about 5 very established brands, using a now relatively old full frame. Great video
It's the worst. People just say things because they heard it. I've been shooting on crop sensor for almost 5 years now. No problems here. My mentor won Range Finders rising 30 stars in 2019 WITH A CROP SENSOR. It's not the camera but the photographer.
Why I love your channel. You’re real, upfront and even funny at times. You’re an inspiration to us “old”, new photographers 😂 I even almost bought a Fuji the other day lol. But I’m too invested in Sony right now so it made more sense to get an A6600 to have as a second camera in case I start trying weddings. Thanks for the videos as always!
I LOVE, LOVE your stuff about crop sensors John! I mainly shoot equine event stuff and have been overseas twice as the US team photographer in endurance riding. Had never owned a full frame until a year ago, and still hardly use it because I haven't seen anything much from it yet that beats my 7d Mark II Canon. The sensor and low light capability on it is superior for sharp images and low light. I'm doing a wedding Saturday and I will not be afraid to have my crop sensor out there along with the 5d at all!
Hi John, Thank you so much. I have been watching your videos all afternoon. I cannot believe l did not come across you earlier. Much earlier. Thank you so much you were just what l needed to kick my butt and get on with it. Your tutorials are fantastic. Best wishes to you mate. Cheers Nathan James
Thank you, Awesome!! My first weddings i did on a nikon d5100 and the kid lens and that couple has being recommending clients for over 5 years.. Agreed know what you are doing and want and forget the gear!!! Since I moved to nikon d610 and 24-85 vr 3.5- 4.5 and nothing else, well 3 manual flash word $35 each.. my two cents.. I still use the d5100 as a backup with the same zoom lens.
Thank you🥺 I just had my 1st wedding last 7th of this Month and my clients loved how I did the 1st look! Your vida really getting me there one step at a time thank much!
out of all the channels i watch you are more my style so i agree with the flash in background the light coming from the side i hate it lol i like your shots clean crisp and clear
Dude you nailed it! Right on the head. I’m a year into my journey and still get the bozo’s raving about “gear” Some idiot literally messaged me the other day asking why I shoot Nikon as I’m the only one in my area that does (according to his observation) I took one look at his page and noticed the trim in the background of one of his images at a sever slant. I’m talking like 15 degrees! Didn’t even waste my time engaging. Like bro your raving about Sony.... does it have a level!?!? (I’m sure it does) The point is these are just tools as you mentioned. He along with many others should be focused on things like composition and lighting. Great video brother as usual. Keep feeding us 👌🏾
I do commercial as well...they don't care either. I shot crop sensor for years professionally. Cameras are made soooo well now. Excellent video and well said.
EXACTLY! Cameras no a days are SOOO good. Most of what everyone asks about "what makes a good camera" is irrelevant at this point. Basically find what works for you and your work flow and then get good as a photographer. Rather than nit picking specs.
Great video John! I agree on everything. Pricing is always a difficult subject and can vary as long as you meet your CODB. If you don't meet that then there is no point of even trying to be in business. Other thing I've been told if I don't shoot in 4k or RAW I'm doing it wrong... Or you must shoot in Manual mode at all times. Aperature priority or Shutter priority modes can be used as well it really boils down to what you are shooting.
Love...love ...love this video. I am just starting and I have heard all of the above. Thank you for taking the time to really help. P.S. shooting my first wedding in 2 weeks.
Respectfully, I disagree in part about not needing a full frame camera for doing something as high stakes as someone's wedding. Full frame cameras for newer photographers and the bigger sensor/better low light capabilities can potentially save them if they incorrectly under or over exposed an image out of camera if they aren't skilled yet with shooting in low light or using flash. Not to mention having two card slots for redundant recording that's not necessarily available in crop sensor cameras, as well as fewer lens options/lower quality lenses available. Fuji might be the one exception that actually has nice lenses available. I will agree with you though that IF you are skilled enough to know how to correctly expose in camera, and how to properly light tough reception parts, you ABSOLUTELY can use a crop sensor and most people will not be able to tell the difference, but I would never want to encourage a new photographer and tell them it's okay to use crop sensor when a full frame camera actually offers more room to fix mistakes a photographer makes which may happen often early in their journey.
@@thomas.roberts The Magsphere works wonders on camera, it's always on my flash when I use it on weddings (it works for both outdoor and indoor situations) - I sometimes get a funny comment or a strange look from a guest but that's it - and when someone asks 'what's that' and I explain what it does, it makes me look good and professional. Don't be afraid to use it, it's a game changer.
John, love all you videos! Quick question. When do you know your style first matches your client and then it doesn’t, after the shoot? Yes, I shared my website and some previous shoots and they loved them! I’m very confused. Thanks
Great advice John. We have our first full wedding in 2 weeks and we are doing it for a very low price, why? because exactly as you said we need the experience and the images for our portfolio also we were totally honest with the bride and groom about this who are lovely. I also agree about the gear, we shoot canon full-frame (big and heavy), but that's because we know the cameras well, they are certainly not the latest and greatest they are 5diii's but we have total confidence in them and I can certainly see the advantage of smaller lighter cameras, as for lenses? we have 2, 50mm 1.2's 35mm's and 70-200's so a mix but again we get the shots we need with these. Loving your videos, much better than a lot that I have bought in the past :)
Im using my 800d canon in all the events weve shot.. every event make us better.. i even shot with our 2nd photographer fullframe and the clients cant event tell what photos are shot on ff and apsc.. overall, they are just satisfied for what they have paid for.. good points as always.. i love it when everyone says shoot fullframe! Haha thank you fpr this vid.
Excellent points John! I just recorded a podcast talking about this exact thing; too many new photographers get caught up in this stuff. Cheers to you good sir.
You're a dude. Loving your vids and fast working my way through them. Great simple common sense advice and great to hear it backed up from someone with your experience.. Thank you again
Also, and this is the one I hear most, you have to have a brick and mortar studio. The number of folks who tell me no one will ever take me seriously because I don't have an actual physical studio is crazy.
I agree, you don’t need expensive gear as an photographer and for each it’s own honesty, not gonna lie I was kinda confused on the off camera flash never really hear of that.
Hi John - for me - what would be a great video for you to do, would be about how you got into wedding photography in the first place ? - did you second? - how did you build a portfolio having never shot a wedding before?. I'm sure a lot of your audience including myself would benefit from this. All the best sir :)
Love your channel! 2 questions: 1) who are your 2 favorite wedding photographers? 2) how do you do family and bridal party portraits with OCF at a night wedding?
Great video ..spot on with info ...I have just started..my friend who is a great wedding photographer says more or less the same ..I shot a wedding with only 35mm and 85mm prime lenses and they are enough ..who needs zoom..your videos are great and havd helped me alot ...keep it up ..even purchased a lume cube the other day 😉
Very nice video! I don’t shoot weddings but can definitely attest to many of the topics you discussed. The only thing I slightly disagree with you on is prime lenses. I love prime lenses for landscapes and shooting videos but when I’m shooting sports photos I much prefer my 75-300mm. Not only does it allow me to zoom in on more action but does a great job proportioning the athletes.
You and me both! The was the main reason for this video. Just to let people know there are multiple options not just what you hear everyone saying you have to do.
As a software engineer at my day job, I fully appreciate your points on pricing. As I became more skilled over the years, I expected to be able to charge more for my work, and that often meant leaving behind clients who were unable or unwilling to pay that much. “Find your market” is great advice for many professions. And as I toy with the idea of doing professional photography work on the side, this is a helpful guide to know what to charge before I have a lot of experience under my belt.
Do you have tips for gearing your brand towards those higher paying clients? I’ve been doing wedding video for 4 years and can’t seem to break through to those higher paying clients!
I never understood the zoom vs prime thing either. I do think it's better to have used prime lenses and learn the different qualities of different focal lengths a little better. That just makes you understand the zoom lenses better than just "zooming" for lack of a better term. I do thing zoom lenses can help when you might need to switch focal lengths quick in the moment over primes but I don't think one is better than the other just because
Well john, as Canon Photographer, I can say that the market for good lenses forces you to get the full-frame Canon EF mount system, as there is not much of good sharp lenses for Cropped-sensors Camera, and I guess this the same issue for other brands as well. you see they use this tactics to force consumers to get the full-frame body, and If you ask the support about this, they will tell you because Cropped-sensors has physical limits that limit the production of a good glass lens. And for me is too late to switch for another system, paid more than 7k for canon lenses/body, BTW: love your stuff, a lot! , I would love to see you critique our work, like let us send you some photos and you give us some feedback :)
Sadly none of the myths are about photography - they're about equipment or marketing. Love you John, it's just a character of our times....
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Perfect Myths. :) Thanks. There are some of my favourite "myth" quotes from wedding guests. :D "Hey, why are we in shadow? We will be dark! What an amateur photograph. There is nice strong sunlight over there. Go and take photo there. Dont take photos in shadows!" "You are shooting us against sun? Are you even a real photographer?" "This background is really ugly. Why dont we shoot this direction?" "Landscape format, please!" And many others... :D
landscape format is typically better, that's where your eyes are and it's hard to fill a vertical with interesting subject matter. Portrait orientation is more instagram-my imho.
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@@DamonBowe This is a myth too. Both formats are perfect. And this "myth sentence" is taken out of context. It was at place where portrait format was much better than landscape.
@ I've seen situations where the mother of the Bride or other family members act like you work for THEM, talking to you like you're a server who forgot their drinks. No..I follow the orders of the BRIDE and Groom
There was a time when you showed up at a job and didn't have a dslr canon the size of a 5d minimum and big ass zoom lenses, you got some funny looks and maybe even questions. I even had it with a 5d and prime lenses! Nowadays absolutely nobody cares for one bit.
@@jbivphotography Once I realized that the opening on the bottom has a little slit for Magmod Gels, I've slotted in two Magmod diffusion 'gels' on the bottom as well (or one diffusion and one orange when indoors) for maximum softness :) The MagSphere not only diffuses the light wonderfully, it manages to spread it around awesomely. I call it 'my own personal bulb' :D
It's less about the quality and more about the editing flexibility. With RAW you're able to make heavier edits to your photos. This can be a huge help if the lighting wasn't the greatest in your current scene. Where as with JPEG you need to get the photo and exposure pretty much right. If you don't there's not much saving it. But quality is pretty much the same.
I love your website. Im just starting out and am looking for a platform to put my images on as well. Did you design your website? Do you have any recommendations for me?
If I had a dollar for every time someone tells me I’ll never make it anywhere without the latest, greatest, gear I could actually afford the latest, greatest, gear haha!
OMG it's the stupidest. It's like they want buying gear to be the gate for entry. So if you're not shooting with the latest and greatest the old heads who are already in the game can call you an "amateur"
“You can zoom with your feet” lol. Quote of the year!
great line!!! lol
RIGHT!!
Quote of the year? "Zoom with your feet" is about as old as photography itself!
Great video! I will say the ocf segment was a little confusing though. "You don't have to shoot ofc, until you have to".... Otherwise nice reassurance that doing things your own way is often the best thing to do.
You’re honestly the most honest and realistic photographer when it comes to explaining photography! Best photography channel on YT
Appreciate that
I love watching your videos. I am shooting my first wedding next month. Since taking it on I've been watching everything possible I love your shots.
Awesome! Good luck on that first wedding. You're going to do amazing!
Yeah, me too!
I'm about to do my first and am doing the same 😉
I've been shooting weddings since 1992 and you're pretty much spot on with your comments.
That's great to hear from someone who's so tenured. Than you so much I really appreciate it.
One I hear a lot is : once you start charging, never shoot for free. OK I charge, but sometimes I want to shoot something special, and I have no inquiries that fit, because I've never shown this type of picture. Or sometimes I get asked about a collab with someone who inspires me, and if they're ok to shoot by my rules, why would I say no? I prefer shooting for free to get me started than staying at home doing nothing
Great video, John! Especially appreciate the segment on pricing. Breaking into a crowded, competitive market is hard, and you learn so much starting from the ground up. As you say, experience matters - or as I would put it, "you don't know what you don't know". Pricing ultimately reflects much more than your kit or your technical aptitude.
Absolutely! I hate when people tell other photogs to charge more just because they think it's going to bring the market down. You have to study your market and know where you fit it. And if your caliber and knowledge is worth what you're charging.
Great video! Another myth that's repeatedly told to me, is that you have to learn Photoshop, light room etc in order to be professional and successful. VS. Actually going out there and learn how to shoot and use your camera, until you know the limits. And some photography niches or photographers themselves don't even require any of that. 😂 And then of course the good old "your camera is not big enough, you can't be professional, you're just doing it as a hobby in your free time"
After a year of shooting just for fun, I decided to get serious about it. And the info that made the biggest impact was learning how to use proper settings (ISO, exposure, shutter speed). LR/PS can help you get creative or at times fix imperfections. But those softwares alone can't make a good photo, fully agree with you :)
@@miguelm6307 absolutely agree! I try to get as close to the result I wanna get while shooting. I don't like when I have to spend many hours in post processing, so I'm trying to keep my work flow as easy and fun as possible. This way I can focus 100% on the creativity. And that's what photography is all about to me. 🙏🏻
This is all so true! The difference it made in my work flow when Iearned and understood the camera settings a bit better was massive. I went into lightroom and was shocked at how little I needed to tweak a photo😅 I rarely ever spend more than 2hrs on a batch of 50 photos anymore which is really cool
I agree! I have been shooting equine events where I print onsite for literally 15 yrs. I learned to shoot in camera the best I can in jpeg because I do not have time to do much post processing on over 200 images. I make a living at it and stay as busy as I want and hardly ever use photoshop!
I like the blunt honesty. And yes, most if not all couples don't care about the camera or lens you use, as long as it gets good results, they're pretty much fine with it.
I love your character! Thank you so much for being yourself and sharing your heart. You've really eased my mind about getting a full frame camera (or just an expensive camera in general), but what about dual card slots? Should I consider a camera with one of those?
Totally agree! I feel really bad when I see a new photographer getting frustrated with all these myths created mostly by YT creators.
John thank you so much for this advice! You are so right! I was recently told by another platform host that because I make money doing weddings, I need to upgrade to a full frame camera. I’m currently shooting with the Fuji XT4. At first I went into panic mode thinking now I need to upgrade again… But you’re right just focus on your craft and learning your camera no one cares if you’re using the “Bugatti” of cameras.
This was super reassuring. I love how concise you are, thanks for your videos!
You are so welcome!
I hate when people question my pricing. That's my business. If I don't charge enough, or charge too little, that's my problem. I've had people criticize me that I'm bringing down the market with my affordable pricing. And, not to toot my own horn, but I charge less and shoot better than some photographers in my area who are full-time photographers. Why? Because I love shooting weddings and strive to give couples great photos of their day. Thanks for this video JB4. You are the man!
EXACTLY! People just like to point fingers. But at the end of the day someone else’s prices aren’t the reason you aren’t booking. That sounds great keep it up!
Oh heck no, John! I’m never giving up my 16-55mm! ;) Solid points as always, my friend.
Loved this one! Your car reference was great. I appreciate you looking out for the new folks! Thanks for sharing
Thats true man! 🤓👍🏻 Because of this i switched from Sony FF to Fujifilm. I like the style and the feeling to shoot with fujifilm. Make more sense to me...
Exactly. If the tool works better for you that's what really makes it a "better camera" not all of the camera specs.
I once photographed a wedding with x-t10 + fuji 35 / 1.4. That was good enough. The groom asked me if I have enough films 😀
Would love to see you make a video on understanding and using flash properly / when and when not to use it.
That’s a great idea. I’ll make sure to do more flash videos.
Amen John! Especially to the pricing issue! Another photographers price will not cost you customers and if it does they are not the ideal client for you.
That full frame shake! Excellent video.
😂😂
Great video! One big lesson I've learned in the last two years is knowing when to turne out all the noise of those who insist you have to do x,y,z.
YES!! Totally. Because there's a LOT of noise out there when it comes to running your photography business
I agree 100% with you !! the only time that I might use OCF is for details shots of the rings and jewelry ...I used to carry light stands to put my flashes at receptions, but I stopped doing it about 4 years ago...LOL ( I use a "dome" on top of my Godox flash now )....I use prime lenses only and I use crop sensor cameras ( fuji XH1)
Well said! I learned that instead of wasting time on photography groups I can spend my time improving my website, doing blogs and other useful things. Since I left most of the groups I spend less time on social media. On the full frame question: I shoot both and much prefer the full frame for less noise in low light situations.
The "you need full frame" is the one that kills me. I have an entry level ASPC and a pro FF. Almost 90% of the times I go do wildlife photography, I use my APSC. Can anyone tell the difference? I strongly doubt it.
Unless you're doing high-end commercial stuff, no one cares about your gear. I've sold photos shot with my APSC to companies. My friend shoots for about 5 very established brands, using a now relatively old full frame.
Great video
Thank you! So many keep telling me I have to use a full frame. But my images are always gorgeous.
It's the worst. People just say things because they heard it. I've been shooting on crop sensor for almost 5 years now. No problems here. My mentor won Range Finders rising 30 stars in 2019 WITH A CROP SENSOR. It's not the camera but the photographer.
Love all your videos and tutorials John
Glad you like them!
I shot my first wedding on a kit lens with a canon 3000d lol the photos were great
Why I love your channel. You’re real, upfront and even funny at times. You’re an inspiration to us “old”, new photographers 😂 I even almost bought a Fuji the other day lol. But I’m too invested in Sony right now so it made more sense to get an A6600 to have as a second camera in case I start trying weddings. Thanks for the videos as always!
I LOVE, LOVE your stuff about crop sensors John! I mainly shoot equine event stuff and have been overseas twice as the US team photographer in endurance riding. Had never owned a full frame until a year ago, and still hardly use it because I haven't seen anything much from it yet that beats my 7d Mark II Canon. The sensor and low light capability on it is superior for sharp images and low light. I'm doing a wedding Saturday and I will not be afraid to have my crop sensor out there along with the 5d at all!
Hi John, Thank you so much. I have been watching your videos all afternoon. I cannot believe l did not come across you earlier. Much earlier. Thank you so much you were just what l needed to kick my butt and get on with it. Your tutorials are fantastic. Best wishes to you mate. Cheers Nathan James
I'm glad the content has been helpful!!
Thank you, Awesome!! My first weddings i did on a nikon d5100 and the kid lens and that couple has being recommending clients for over 5 years.. Agreed know what you are doing and want and forget the gear!!! Since I moved to nikon d610 and 24-85 vr 3.5- 4.5 and nothing else, well 3 manual flash word $35 each.. my two cents.. I still use the d5100 as a backup with the same zoom lens.
Exactly. Cameras are just tools. It's the photographer and the experience we give our clients that matter.
Thank you🥺 I just had my 1st wedding last 7th of this Month and my clients loved how I did the 1st look! Your vida really getting me there one step at a time thank much!
Thanks John! Always looking out for us rookies🤓
Really well though out advice for new photographers. I wish there were more photographers out there like you. Good job
I’ve been influenced by your 23mm f2. Love the results!!!
out of all the channels i watch you are more my style so i agree with the flash in background the light coming from the side i hate it lol i like your shots clean crisp and clear
Awesome! Thanks. It's a very unpopular opinion but it's really how I feel.
@@jbivphotography i can respect that
Dude you nailed it! Right on the head. I’m a year into my journey and still get the bozo’s raving about “gear” Some idiot literally messaged me the other day asking why I shoot Nikon as I’m the only one in my area that does (according to his observation) I took one look at his page and noticed the trim in the background of one of his images at a sever slant. I’m talking like 15 degrees! Didn’t even waste my time engaging. Like bro your raving about Sony.... does it have a level!?!? (I’m sure it does) The point is these are just tools as you mentioned. He along with many others should be focused on things like composition and lighting. Great video brother as usual. Keep feeding us 👌🏾
I do commercial as well...they don't care either. I shot crop sensor for years professionally. Cameras are made soooo well now. Excellent video and well said.
EXACTLY! Cameras no a days are SOOO good. Most of what everyone asks about "what makes a good camera" is irrelevant at this point. Basically find what works for you and your work flow and then get good as a photographer. Rather than nit picking specs.
Great video John! I agree on everything. Pricing is always a difficult subject and can vary as long as you meet your CODB. If you don't meet that then there is no point of even trying to be in business. Other thing I've been told if I don't shoot in 4k or RAW I'm doing it wrong... Or you must shoot in Manual mode at all times. Aperature priority or Shutter priority modes can be used as well it really boils down to what you are shooting.
I agree with each point that you made in this video. I love you.
Love...love ...love this video. I am just starting and I have heard all of the above. Thank you for taking the time to really help. P.S. shooting my first wedding in 2 weeks.
Respectfully, I disagree in part about not needing a full frame camera for doing something as high stakes as someone's wedding. Full frame cameras for newer photographers and the bigger sensor/better low light capabilities can potentially save them if they incorrectly under or over exposed an image out of camera if they aren't skilled yet with shooting in low light or using flash. Not to mention having two card slots for redundant recording that's not necessarily available in crop sensor cameras, as well as fewer lens options/lower quality lenses available. Fuji might be the one exception that actually has nice lenses available.
I will agree with you though that IF you are skilled enough to know how to correctly expose in camera, and how to properly light tough reception parts, you ABSOLUTELY can use a crop sensor and most people will not be able to tell the difference, but I would never want to encourage a new photographer and tell them it's okay to use crop sensor when a full frame camera actually offers more room to fix mistakes a photographer makes which may happen often early in their journey.
John thanks for all your advices, you are a great human being.
Would love to here more about how you use the Magspheres throughout the day.
Nice. That's a great idea actually. I'd love to show more about using the Magmod.
@@jbivphotography that would be great, I hear a lot about people using it on OCF but not so much your set up. Something I'd like to try though.
@@thomas.roberts The Magsphere works wonders on camera, it's always on my flash when I use it on weddings (it works for both outdoor and indoor situations) - I sometimes get a funny comment or a strange look from a guest but that's it - and when someone asks 'what's that' and I explain what it does, it makes me look good and professional. Don't be afraid to use it, it's a game changer.
thank you JOhn From Philippines
You're welcome. I'm glad this was helpful!
great and honest appraisal there.
John, have you ever made a video on who your favorite photographers are? If not, I think it would be an interesting one 🙂
John, love all you videos! Quick question. When do you know your style first matches your client and then it doesn’t, after the shoot? Yes, I shared my website and some previous shoots and they loved them! I’m very confused. Thanks
Great advice John. We have our first full wedding in 2 weeks and we are doing it for a very low price, why? because exactly as you said we need the experience and the images for our portfolio also we were totally honest with the bride and groom about this who are lovely. I also agree about the gear, we shoot canon full-frame (big and heavy), but that's because we know the cameras well, they are certainly not the latest and greatest they are 5diii's but we have total confidence in them and I can certainly see the advantage of smaller lighter cameras, as for lenses? we have 2, 50mm 1.2's 35mm's and 70-200's so a mix but again we get the shots we need with these. Loving your videos, much better than a lot that I have bought in the past :)
Im using my 800d canon in all the events weve shot.. every event make us better.. i even shot with our 2nd photographer fullframe and the clients cant event tell what photos are shot on ff and apsc.. overall, they are just satisfied for what they have paid for.. good points as always.. i love it when everyone says shoot fullframe! Haha thank you fpr this vid.
Excellent points John! I just recorded a podcast talking about this exact thing; too many new photographers get caught up in this stuff. Cheers to you good sir.
You're a dude. Loving your vids and fast working my way through them. Great simple common sense advice and great to hear it backed up from someone with your experience.. Thank you again
Also, and this is the one I hear most, you have to have a brick and mortar studio. The number of folks who tell me no one will ever take me seriously because I don't have an actual physical studio is crazy.
I agree, you don’t need expensive gear as an photographer and for each it’s own honesty, not gonna lie I was kinda confused on the off camera flash never really hear of that.
Hi John - for me - what would be a great video for you to do, would be about how you got into wedding photography in the first place ? - did you second? - how did you build a portfolio having never shot a wedding before?. I'm sure a lot of your audience including myself would benefit from this. All the best sir :)
Love your channel! 2 questions: 1) who are your 2 favorite wedding photographers? 2) how do you do family and bridal party portraits with OCF at a night wedding?
Yes, John. Kindly answer to these.
Great video ..spot on with info ...I have just started..my friend who is a great wedding photographer says more or less the same ..I shot a wedding with only 35mm and 85mm prime lenses and they are enough ..who needs zoom..your videos are great and havd helped me alot ...keep it up ..even purchased a lume cube the other day 😉
Very nice video! I don’t shoot weddings but can definitely attest to many of the topics you discussed. The only thing I slightly disagree with you on is prime lenses. I love prime lenses for landscapes and shooting videos but when I’m shooting sports photos I much prefer my 75-300mm. Not only does it allow me to zoom in on more action but does a great job proportioning the athletes.
very useful video. And can you please make a video on how you take multiple photos in different angels and combine them in to a one landscape photo?
Thanks. I made that video awhile ago actually. Check it out here ua-cam.com/video/xvdX7_-X43I/v-deo.html
@@jbivphotography thank you very much and hope wedding behind the seen video soon
Love your work, you're a professional 👏
Thank you very much!
Thank you John! You're a true one!
So good! Thank you for keeping it real. Blessings.
All solid points . In the Nikon Z world , the argument is that you can't use a camera with a single XQD slot even when operated properly .
This is good information John,thanks for sharing
Excellent video John.
Glad you enjoyed it
My dad was a wedding photographer and I am about to get into it. (Why I am here) I only shoot with a 50mm as he has always said zoom with your feet!
So awesome hearing from a second generation wedding photographer!!
thanks for the information!!
You're welcome. I hope it was helpful!
I'm smojoe down the street. Thanks for this lol great video
This was awesome, and a breath of fresh air.
Gud stuff! I wish I heard these tips years ago. :-)
You and me both! The was the main reason for this video. Just to let people know there are multiple options not just what you hear everyone saying you have to do.
Great video!
❤you’re awesome 😎 thanks for your help
Happy to help!
As a software engineer at my day job, I fully appreciate your points on pricing. As I became more skilled over the years, I expected to be able to charge more for my work, and that often meant leaving behind clients who were unable or unwilling to pay that much. “Find your market” is great advice for many professions. And as I toy with the idea of doing professional photography work on the side, this is a helpful guide to know what to charge before I have a lot of experience under my belt.
Great Advice !!!
You need full frame to shoot weddings unless you shoot Fuji. That's the only crop sensor cameras that I'd shoot weddings with.
you help me a lot ♥️♥️♥️.. big fan from Philippines
Happy to hear that!
Do you have tips for gearing your brand towards those higher paying clients? I’ve been doing wedding video for 4 years and can’t seem to break through to those higher paying clients!
Great video!!
Thanks a bunch. I'm glad you enjoyed it!
WOW I NEEDED THIS
Awesome! I'm glad you found it helpful. I hope it leads you in the right direction.
I never understood the zoom vs prime thing either. I do think it's better to have used prime lenses and learn the different qualities of different focal lengths a little better. That just makes you understand the zoom lenses better than just "zooming" for lack of a better term. I do thing zoom lenses can help when you might need to switch focal lengths quick in the moment over primes but I don't think one is better than the other just because
I agree. Especially if you’re shooting with a single body a zoom is almost a necessity.
Well john, as Canon Photographer, I can say that the market for good lenses forces you to get the full-frame Canon EF mount system,
as there is not much of good sharp lenses for Cropped-sensors Camera, and I guess this the same issue for other brands as well.
you see they use this tactics to force consumers to get the full-frame body, and If you ask the support about this, they will tell you because Cropped-sensors has physical limits that limit the production of a good glass lens.
And for me is too late to switch for another system, paid more than 7k for canon lenses/body,
BTW: love your stuff, a lot! , I would love to see you critique our work, like let us send you some photos and you give us some feedback :)
Sadly none of the myths are about photography - they're about equipment or marketing. Love you John, it's just a character of our times....
Perfect Myths. :) Thanks.
There are some of my favourite "myth" quotes from wedding guests. :D
"Hey, why are we in shadow? We will be dark! What an amateur photograph.
There is nice strong sunlight over there. Go and take photo there. Dont take photos in shadows!"
"You are shooting us against sun? Are you even a real photographer?"
"This background is really ugly. Why dont we shoot this direction?"
"Landscape format, please!"
And many others... :D
landscape format is typically better, that's where your eyes are and it's hard to fill a vertical with interesting subject matter. Portrait orientation is more instagram-my imho.
@@DamonBowe This is a myth too. Both formats are perfect. And this "myth sentence" is taken out of context. It was at place where portrait format was much better than landscape.
people really said that?? ugh that would get on my nerves, but I'd have to grin and bear it. Listen to me, my camera is bigger than your phone lol
@@iunderstanphotography2780 Yes. They really say that. Especially bride's mothers and aunts. :D
@ I've seen situations where the mother of the Bride or other family members act like you work for THEM, talking to you like you're a server who forgot their drinks.
No..I follow the orders of the BRIDE and Groom
There was a time when you showed up at a job and didn't have a dslr canon the size of a 5d minimum and big ass zoom lenses, you got some funny looks and maybe even questions.
I even had it with a 5d and prime lenses!
Nowadays absolutely nobody cares for one bit.
So much truth here.
Actually had a friend whose client REALLY DID insult them about their gear b/c it wasn’t top of the line. Not even kidding….nightmare bridezilla.
As a new wedding photographer, how much may I charge? I have really no idea and people are starting to ask me. thank you
AGREE!!!
YES!
Hey John! Do you use any diffusers on your flashes?
I do. I live and die by the MagMod Sphere. Best diffuser ever.
@@jbivphotography Once I realized that the opening on the bottom has a little slit for Magmod Gels, I've slotted in two Magmod diffusion 'gels' on the bottom as well (or one diffusion and one orange when indoors) for maximum softness :)
The MagSphere not only diffuses the light wonderfully, it manages to spread it around awesomely. I call it 'my own personal bulb' :D
I love your videos
Thanks so much! I hope they're helpful.
@John Branch IV Photography can you tell me which font can you tell me which fonts you use in the beginning? :-)
Hey do u use dual card while shooting in xt3 ?
Yep. Always. I have 2 SD cards installed and I shoot in backup to make sure I have a copy of my photos.
@@jbivphotography do you had any occassion where ur 1 sd card got craped and the other saved you ?
On Camera Flash.. Not the built in Camera flash right?
Correct. On camera and not built in. Now THAT's hard to use and make look nice but on camera is fine.
@@jbivphotography oh cool. Thanks John.
Do you have to shoot raw or can you shoot in JPEG to get the best quality?
It's less about the quality and more about the editing flexibility. With RAW you're able to make heavier edits to your photos. This can be a huge help if the lighting wasn't the greatest in your current scene. Where as with JPEG you need to get the photo and exposure pretty much right. If you don't there's not much saving it. But quality is pretty much the same.
Hey man you are awesome. Should I get a 50F2 or 56F1.4 for weddings ?
I’ve used both and while I loved the 50 f2 especially for its size. Between the two the 56 is a much better choice.
Only you can make the right choice 👍
Thanks heaps! Appreciate your time
I love your website. Im just starting out and am looking for a platform to put my images on as well. Did you design your website? Do you have any recommendations for me?
I think he said he made his using squarespace
Do you had any occassion where ur 1 sd card got craped and the other saved you ?
I haven't. In my 7-8 years of being a wedding photographer I haven't had a single SD card fail on me.
@@jbivphotography ukw ... A big hats off to u for answering these qns 🙂❤️ pls keep responding ❤️
If I had a dollar for every time someone tells me I’ll never make it anywhere without the latest, greatest, gear I could actually afford the latest, greatest, gear haha!
OMG it's the stupidest. It's like they want buying gear to be the gate for entry. So if you're not shooting with the latest and greatest the old heads who are already in the game can call you an "amateur"
@@jbivphotography exactly!
YOU ARE SOOO DAMN RIGHT! A.M.E.N. 😅
I wish more starting photogs could hear these myths debunked before it derails them.
Full frame is so last decade. Everyone should be on Medium Format now.
😂😂 BIGGER SENSORS ALWAYS!!!!