Let's start a discussion! How do you feel about limiting yourself, does it give you anxiety or make you feel liberated? As with many sufferers of GAS, sometimes narrowing down your options to something minimal can make you think less about the gear and more about the moment and process, which is always good to reset the creative juices.
On a recent trip to Europe I decided to find my the old AE-1 that someone gave me years ago and use it. It was a great experience. Once camera, one lens, and click the shutter and hope for the best. Was quite nice not being weighed down by a camera bag. Of course now I have 4 cameras and can never decide which to take. But once I'm there the experience is usually better. Unless I am going out with camera buddies to fawn over each others gear. My camera of choice now is usually either my Contax T or my FE2 with 50mm 1.4. Though that 40mm voigtlander you have on your FE is a lens that I am desperately trying to find. Sometimes a 50mm is just a bit to tight.
Recently I have found myself carrying three cameras and most of the time just use one of them. It is nice to have them all, but I think I will think twice before bringing all three all the time! I have a Canon 6D with a 24-105 f4 L, and two film cameras: An EOS 300 with a 17-40 f4 L, and a Minolta X-570 with a 50mm f1.7. Also a 14 mm f2.8 for my canons. I feel like using the minolta more after watching this video! Thanks for a great video!
Great video! I actually just came back from a trip to Malaga in hopes of making some content. I had 3 cameras with me (2 digital and one film camera). I opted to just be present and hangout with my wife and only shot film with my Olympus XA haha. As a content creator, sometimes we lose our own photographic journey because of the likes of social media rather than being present...camera in hand or not.
For me, less is better. I love my Fuji X70 and it is my primary camera. I don’t mind the fixed focal length lens. With the digital zoom, it’s like I’m carrying around three prime lenses in a very small package. Also, the film simulations are so good it also liberated me from extensive post processing of the images. Throw in the fantastic leaf shutter and I’m good to go. It’s all I need!
As a young teenager I got my first camera for my birthday in 1986, it was a Hanimex 110, when I had enough money I used to go to the local chemist to get the film processed and then had to wait like 10 days to collect my prints. I got my first SLR in 1991, a Nikon FA that I brought at good price second hand, it was only 6 years old and in mint condition when I brought it and I still have it today. The FA is not the best SLR that Nikon ever made but I love that camera and I still shoot with her. It's funny hearing people now say 'film photography', back in the day we just called it photography, the fact that you were using film was taken as a given.
You're so right! In my Canon days I carried around huge bags full of lenses and cameras and flashes now I use mainly my Fuji X100 and X-pro1 with the 35mm on and I've got all I need 99% of the time. And I have fun and inspiration. Less is more!
Excellent video! I agree 100%! I regularly limit my creative options as well. My favorite kit to use is my Canon A-1 with an FD 50mm F/1.4, an FD 28mm F/2.8, and an FD 135mm F/3.5. This kit also fits into a little shoulder bag and is very light. I shoot a lot of street photography, so being light on my feet is a must. I mostly shoot black and white films so that further limits creative options but I do keep a pouch if filters for those "Just in case" moments or when I want a specific look. Sometimes I will bring color along just to switch things up a bit and keep my mind fresh. I believe that the old English / Latin proverb of "Necessity is the mother of invention" easily applies to artistic pursuits in the context of taking only the necessary materials/equipment to achieve the work forces one to use those necessary materials/equipment inventively.
I like that saying! How do you find the A-1 for street? I used to use my FE a lot but the shutter is quite loud and I'm trying to get (a little bit) closer to people
@@pushingfilm It is, by no means, a quiet shutter if that's what you're asking. After getting it CLA'd by a local camera repair guy, it wasn't as noticeable. Before that, it suffered a great deal from the infamous Canon shutter squeal. I get pretty close to people. Shooting with a 50mm for most of my shots helps a little with bridging distance, other times I will use the 135mm if I feel like approaching would disturb the scene. Most of my close shots were pre-focused for distance and I use the hyper-focal distance scale religiously. This lets me get really close so that when I bring the camera to my eye, its only for a split second to frame the shot. I find that time is the most disturbing thing in street photography. The longer you stand there framing up a shot, the more you're noticed. I find that most people don't even turn their head when I walk by them and snap a fast shot. Every now and then, they notice but I will just smile at them and keep walking. I will also sometimes employ some more dramatic techniques such as pointing my camera in one direction until my subject walks by me or around me to avoid getting into the shot. By then, I'm already focused and ready so I just turn in their direction and fire the shutter. This works best in crowds though. If you want to see some of my work, I post most of it to my instagram @nicolethornphoto
Ah, the infamous shutter squeak... Luckily it doesn't cause much harm in most cases, just noise!. I see what you mean, everyone has a different approach on the street, but there is a lot of crossover, and i think I employ some of the same techniques. Great, I'll check it out!
On my 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc trip to Japan I took DSLR, 17-50 and 70-200 plus Manfrotto Befree. More than enough gear for me, most days I just had my 80D and all around lens, for specific destinations I knew I'll need a tripod and tele. Ofc evenings out, party and stuff all gear was at the hotel. Tho I have Zenith from 80's and enjoy film occasionally, I love how many options I got on my digital, in light painting for example, where you can instantly check if you messed up and tons of other things. Especially if you're just enthusiast like myself.
Gorgeous shots, Hashem! I ran into this exact problem when I visited San Francisco earlier this year. Brought 3 different cameras and it made any kind of photography near impossible. I eventually just stuck to my Olympus XA and shot through 4 rolls in a few hours. It really does make a difference, although it's always a bit of a challenge when you need to record at times.
For sure! How do you like the XA? I had one a while back but I think I found controlling it was difficult for larger hands, and my rangefinder patch was extremely dim 😅 Keep up the great videos btw 👍
@@pushingfilm It's an alright camera for when you're in a pinch, or if you need a backup film stock, but I don't think its all that great outside of travel situations. I like that I've been able to sneak it into places that require photo passes, but I'm just not a fan of any P&S camera.
Good advice. After obsessing about which cameras to bring on a recent trip I settled for my YashicaMat 124G and my Ricoh GR ll. Glad I made the choice and left other cameras at home.
I'm with you on this too Hashem... I took my favorite cameras on my latest trip to San Francisco, California and ended up with shooting with one or two cameras (35mm and medium format) and ended up shooting more with one camera for convenience and my safety. The best pics came from my Nikon FE2 and Nikorr 85-200mm F2.8 Lens of surfers that were out on the beach catching some fairly good waves. It was nice having the other cameras there as a back up but I never got around to using them after all.
Hey Lang, glad you found it relatable... and I agree sometimes if it's not a nuisance I don't mind having the backup options, especially when just driving around in a car etc. Yeah those surf photos on film were nice!
I love film because using a fully manual camera (I mean what are you doing if you're shooting film in auto?) means that I slow down to really consider every shot. Oftentimes the time it takes to focus and meter helps me find the best possible composition. Not every shot will be great, but statistically I end up with way more good shots per 100. For added bonus, dark room printing is a soothing, ritual like process. If you want to take your time and calm down, it's a great way to do that.
Excellent topic! I definitely suffer from option anxiety! Not so much because I have too much gear (I don't think I do), but because I can't decide on subject matter or using a particular technique. When I do get an opportunity to go out and photograph, I take my DSLR with two lenses and my drone. So right away I'm questioning myself: Should I fly the drone or do some street or landscape photography? If I decide to use the DSLR then I question what technique do I want to explore? Long exposure? Short depth of field? Hand held? Tripod? Night? HDR? Focus Stacking? Wide angle, Panorama? etc. I remember shooting with a Diana (toy) Camera. It had one setting, which wasn't all that effective. Basically, if ya saw something interesting or inspiring, click the shutter once and move on. Often times an out-of-focus, light leak image was the best. So, YES, there is definitely liberation through limitation. To help my photography anxiety, when I go photographing I try to decide exactly what it is I want to photograph (a particular street, building, park, landscape) and how I want to approach it (drone, panorama, hand held, etc.) I still should take some psychotic drugs to lessen my anxiety, but having a plan has helped... a little. "Zine" Never heard of it. LOVE IT! Great/Cool idea!
Haha I know how you feel. The way I try to curb the situation is pick occasions where I "let" myself take everything, and other times where I force myself to take the minimal setup :-D And yes, pre-planning and visualising definitely helps. Appreciate the feedback!
I feel you brother! I went back to San Francisco, California twice this year and brought most of my gear! but ended up shooting with only two cameras (Nikon FE2 and Mamiya RB67 Pro S) that made sense to shoot within the environment I was shooting in. I tend to lean towards my Nikon gear when I shoot 35mm or the Canon gear because I have certain lenses I have that trumps the others! This dilemma is also hard shooting with certain film grains that best suites the mood you want to produce and what camera will give you that feel or vibe! When in doubt! Go with what you like most or bring them all! After all... Who will know? Hahahahaha! Great video Hashem! Loved the Super 8 follow up video!
In May 09 I went to NY with my D700 + grip with 16mm fisheye, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm and with my FM3a. It weighed a dead donkey, I never used my FM3a and I was constantly trying to decide what to use. I’m going back in a week with just my M6, a 35mm and a 50mm.
Great video and well articulated. I've certainly fallen into the trap of bringing too much. My next trip to Chicago in September I'm really limiting my options - Stylus P&S and my Pen F with 38mm lens. That's it... Want to be present and enjoy the trip for what it is!
I agree! I actually started shooting film again because I felt like digital wasnt challenging me. It's too easy to take the same shot until its perfect or tweak it in lightroom. It was easy for me to just let my gear sit and collect dust. I didn't feel inspired or creative. With film being limited, I have to make every shot count. Make it worth it. Think about everything. I too, am plagued by GAS. I love collecting, but if I dont shoot it I will sell it. When picking out gear I now think to myself, do i need that? With film, ive always been a 1 camera 1 lens type of guy and try to carry that over to digital. In my mind, the less I carry, the more I have to make use of what I have. The more creative I have to be to make that certain shot in my head with those limitations. I had an itch to get a rangefinder and have been waiting for the right one to come up in my price range. In the mean time I picked up a Pentax MX with a 50 1.7 and that itch has gone. It has made me think, how often will I put these cameras to work. Is it worth the investment when I have a fully capable 35mm camera here. One thing that many people don't seem to talk about is that GAS actually makes you realize what you want in a certain camera. Maybe when you shoot 1 type of camera so long you dont realize how it limits you. But maybe you get used to it and now think of those "limitations" as quirks. So in reality, other than technical aspects, are there such thing as limitations or are they just all in our head and we just need to figure out how to work around the problem to come to the solution.
Totally agree. It seems like it's all a self discovery experience and journey in a way. I find even through trying lots of gear, you tend to eventually gravitate towards a few main tools that work best for you. In terms of a reasonable priced rangefinder have you ever tried the Bessa?
Hey mate really enjoyed this video, similar to what I have been thinking lately. Love your images and the look of your "Zine" make sure you publish it!
Thanks Paul! Appreciate it. Yeah I just watched your last video and it looks that getaway was real nice! Man I love New Zealand... Only been once but definitely plan to come back 😁
I concur with everything you said .. more choice is counter productive , it detracts from creativity ....... ps your zine look great , I would buy it for sure ...
Totally agree with you. I used to carry my digital with my Mamiya RB67 on hikes. Now I only bring my RB67 with two lenses, two backs and choose on the day of shooting what film to shoot (may occasionally bring a 35mm for panos). Or if I want to go light, I just bring two bodies, a 24mm and a telephoto zoom with one loaded with BnW and other with colour but gonna limit myself further and only go shoot either BnW or colour
Nice, yeah there's something special about taking a medium format camera on trips that makes it worth the extra weight! I've done similar with the pentax 67 which probably close in weight.
Well said, Great video. Carrying one SLR is enough. I have three SLR Pentax k1000, vivitar v3000s & nikon fm2n which has a broken light metre. Sometimes I confuse or difficult to decide which one should I use , while traveling.
very nice video. I am currently in Marrakesh, Morocco for two weeks and have brought my Mamiya 645 with an 80mm lens and my FE2 with a 35mm lens. However I only carry one with me where ever I go, thus committing to a single camera for an entire day usually. Gets you thinking and shooting with different mindsets and paces. Also, does your voightlander 40mm lens need and adapter to attach to you Nikon?
Oh man, I want to visit Morocco so bad, how are you finding people are with photography? the Ultron 40mm I have is a Nikon mount, so it fits directly 👌
@@pushingfilm Hi, sorry for the late response, I've been without Wifi here for the past few days. To begin, I can't say Moroccans are generally fond of having their photo taken. In street photography I never want to be rude yet if I am inspired to make a photo I will make it. No one has yelled at me for taking a candid photo of them (perhaps I haven't been caught) though, strangely enough yesterday I was taking a photo of an old wall with with peeling orange paint and that upset two men. I simply said sorry and left after a bit of talking. Perhaps they think I snapped a photo of them. I Luckily had two boys around my age (late teens/ early 20's) agree to have their photo taken near the home I was staying at in Marakesh. My friend who speaks Arabic asked for me, which is probably why they said yes. But don't be deterred by the people not being the most camera friendly. This country is so wildly beautiful, I implore you to consider traveling here. I'm certain you can make excellent photos here.
@@willf.5403 Oh all good man! thanks for the reply. Yeah that sounds similar to what I've heard from other people who've travelled there, but it seems like the people have their reasoning based on their culture and perhaps certain areas of heavy tourism. Definitely wouldn't deter me and do still plan to go some day. One of my old colleagues shot a great series there some years back on 645 film. You should check it out for a bit of quick inspo before going on a walk (google "Nathan Stolz, Coca Cola Dreaming)
I used to shoot a lot of Ilford Pan 400 when I got into film photography. Later on I was shooting many cameras and even more film stock. Lately I got back to Pan400 and a Contax T2. Right now, this is the only combo I am using. M6 and Xpan are in the drawer :)
@@pushingfilm No way! I love the format, build quality, the lens and it is challenging to shoot. The reason it is now stowed away is to force myself to different formats. But you are right, price is now about the double I´ve paid
"My freedom will be so much the greater and more meaningful the more narrowly I limit my field of action and the more I surround myself with obstacles. Whatever diminishes constraint diminishes strength. The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees one's self of the chains that shackle the spirit." - Igor Stravinsky
Man, you really right. I got also same digi Setup as you and i used to carry too much around. It's really to be limited in gear, it's an Improvement in the End.
Perhaps the greatest combat photographer of WWII used only an Argus C3, and processed his film in the field, using combat helmets for trays. He bought a fancier camera at war's end, but those early shots are incomparable.
I definitely feel more liberated and more creative when I limit myself. Certain situations require certain gear, but you can still limit yourself then.
I find that more gear feels limiting and ‘limitations’ feel freeing. Especially for street and travel. I use a bit more gear for weddings but even then I’m only switching things out when I know I’ll need something specific. Great video mate, you make some good points ✌️
With two lenses, deffo 35 and 50. They look consistent on a gallery wall or book. When you shift further to a 28 or 90mm the difference can break visual consistency. I tend to think of the 50 as an outdoor lens and 35 as an indoor lens. Simplicity.
Excellent advice Hasham 😊 I have downsized my collection and my main cameras and it does feel great knowing that I only have a few cameras now and lenses to choose from. I feel like I’ll be more creative and satisfied with my results and it will make me a better photographer 🙂
@@pushingfilm haha yep it was an inevitable switch I just kept procrastinating ;) Happy I did, just have to get used to the different feel and way it works.
If you don't know what you're going to be photographing just bring one or two generic lenses. If you're setting out specifically for certain photos then bring the specialty lenses. For me travelling I usually just use a 35mm prime. Showing the world as you see it - you can't really go wrong for travel/street stuff.
Great work champion! Proud of your work. We are heading off to NZ in October and on this trip my son is taking his Nikon F4 with 2 lenses and I am taking my RB67 Pro SD with two lenses. I can assure we are practicing your mantra, "Liberation through limitation" otherwise I would be taking my Canon gear.
Thanks heaps! Yeah man, whatever it means for you, take the gear that works. That doesn't sound too bad for an NZ trip, the sights there are well worth it!
I think about this all the time, and in other fields too, like drawing or writing or music, and even school: most of the things I'm proud to have done were done with limited resources and gear, to the point that I've made the key of my work ethic in plenty of situations out of this. Like you said, film photography already sets some limitations that keep your shooting focused (no pun intended haha) challenging and fun, and that might be the thing I like the most about film.
For travel I am looking to get the successor to sony A6500 as I just want a jack of all trades camera. As the need for taking stills and video increases film for me is not liberating but a limiting factor ! A few lenses, small flash, light tripod that is about all I need.
I love Fuji x 100 f 23 mm f 2 , it makes you look for the photo than the photo coming to you via zoom lens and opens up your creative side , btw that accent are you from northside Detroit, MI lol
Hey nice man. Well probably organise a photowalk soon, then a workshop after that. No dates yet so Best to follow the instagram page or twitter for updates
It was "Blurb". I'm not sure if I'll go with them for bulk production because shipping is very expensive to where I am, but the quality was quite nice! I used their "trade book" option
I'm also guilty of taking on vacation everything but the kitchen sink. On the next trip I'm taking one digital and one film camera and maybe an extra lens, period...
I too am a camera and gear collector, who is also an amateur photographer. However, whether traveling across the country or just going out for a couple of hours, I never bring more than one body and two lenses, and more often than not, it's one body, one lens. If you're not a "reader", STOP here. For professional photographers, they (understandably) have no sentimentality for a camera or lens. It's simply a tool to make money. I am the opposite, digitally, I shoot with a 10 year old DSLR. Nowadays, 10 year old technology is virtually the same as using 50 or even 100 year old technology, however, I simply LOVE the camera, it far exceeds my level of photography, and it does 90% of anything I need it to do. I just bought the exact same model, so that if one ever fails, I have a backup. There is something about the way it feels in my hand. I would swear that my blood pressure drops 20 points just holding it. I have more film cameras than fingers. Perhaps I would think differently if I were 21 or 28, or 35, however, I am a middle aged man who grew up in a time where you fully expected to buy a Nikon F3 (or whatever) and that that camera would (very happily) last you your entire life. I love craftsmanship, and things that are over-engineered. Of course this is NOT good for marketers or corporate profits. Of course, there will always be new features and whatnot, however, I KNOW for a fact, that no company will EVER build a digital camera body to the standards of the 10 year-old camera I own. It is also a FACT that EVERY Pulitzer Prize winning image you have ever seen in your life, was shot with a camera that makes my 10 year-old body seem like 'state of the art' futuristic technology. Marketers in every sector of society have really done a number on the overwhelming majority of us in the Western world.
the last 14 months i have acquired an ATROCIOUS case of GAS!! 20 vintage cameras and 35 lenses. unbelievable. started selling them off, but i am keeping the pentax until they release a mirrorless camera. the price will skyrocket on those bad boys. 📷🤓
I have more cameras than I need. But I always shoot the Canon P with a 35mm 1.8. Basically a Leica M setup like yourself, just everyday, pretty much goes everywhere with me. Talk about comfort zone 😂
I carried a digital camera, two film cameras, all associated lenses, tripod, monopod, film, etc., on my trips overseas. I learned every year how to whittle down my gear. That $#¡+ gets heavy really fast. I got some great shots, but I'll never do that again. My Olympus Pen Ft will do just fine in a pocket for quick excursions.
I take one analogue camera my Leica MP + 50mm and my digital Sony A7III with the small 28mm f2 all in a small ona bag. no more and if it's just 1 camera, just the Leica with the 35mm.
The people who hire me expect value. When shooting for myself, knowing I am getting the shot is what makes me happy. Having that instant look results in more successful shots. A couple days ago, I did a ranch shoot. I shot flower close-ups, horse portraits, longer lens shots of swans, farm equipment and haystacks, mountains, etc. It works far better for me to think like a boy scout and be prepared for everything, rather than try to do more with less. Film? Yes, but I don't rest easy and bet the ranch or my reputation on unknown results.
Of course, different situations call for different options. When I'm hired for a job I'm often lugging 2 bags of stuff 😅 but If I'm travelling or walking the streets, I'm starting to find that less is more.
If you can't take a decent shot with a Holga you have no business with anything more advanced. Personally, I love shooting with the minimum possible equipment. I pretty much shoot exclusively on a Canon AE-1.
Let's start a discussion! How do you feel about limiting yourself, does it give you anxiety or make you feel liberated? As with many sufferers of GAS, sometimes narrowing down your options to something minimal can make you think less about the gear and more about the moment and process, which is always good to reset the creative juices.
On a recent trip to Europe I decided to find my the old AE-1 that someone gave me years ago and use it. It was a great experience. Once camera, one lens, and click the shutter and hope for the best. Was quite nice not being weighed down by a camera bag.
Of course now I have 4 cameras and can never decide which to take. But once I'm there the experience is usually better. Unless I am going out with camera buddies to fawn over each others gear.
My camera of choice now is usually either my Contax T or my FE2 with 50mm 1.4. Though that 40mm voigtlander you have on your FE is a lens that I am desperately trying to find. Sometimes a 50mm is just a bit to tight.
@@GregoryVeizades Nice setup(s)! Yeah I hope you eventually give the 40mm Ultron a try, it makes a nice all rounder and travel lens!
Recently I have found myself carrying three cameras and most of the time just use one of them. It is nice to have them all, but I think I will think twice before bringing all three all the time! I have a Canon 6D with a 24-105 f4 L, and two film cameras: An EOS 300 with a 17-40 f4 L, and a Minolta X-570 with a 50mm f1.7. Also a 14 mm f2.8 for my canons. I feel like using the minolta more after watching this video! Thanks for a great video!
Great video! I actually just came back from a trip to Malaga in hopes of making some content. I had 3 cameras with me (2 digital and one film camera). I opted to just be present and hangout with my wife and only shot film with my Olympus XA haha. As a content creator, sometimes we lose our own photographic journey because of the likes of social media rather than being present...camera in hand or not.
Thanks buddy, hope you had a good trip. Definitely agree, sometimes we have to recognise when its time to detach!
"The enemy of art is the absence of limitations."
- Orson Welles
Love that
For me, less is better. I love my Fuji X70 and it is my primary camera. I don’t mind the fixed focal length lens. With the digital zoom, it’s like I’m carrying around three prime lenses in a very small package. Also, the film simulations are so good it also liberated me from extensive post processing of the images. Throw in the fantastic leaf shutter and I’m good to go. It’s all I need!
As a young teenager I got my first camera for my birthday in 1986, it was a Hanimex 110, when I had enough money I used to go to the local chemist to get the film processed and then had to wait like 10 days to collect my prints. I got my first SLR in 1991, a Nikon FA that I brought at good price second hand, it was only 6 years old and in mint condition when I brought it and I still have it today. The FA is not the best SLR that Nikon ever made but I love that camera and I still shoot with her. It's funny hearing people now say 'film photography', back in the day we just called it photography, the fact that you were using film was taken as a given.
Love the video dude! Really connects well with how I’ve been feeling lately. Also, jealous of your accent!!
Haha thanks man, come to Australia we'll train you on the Aussie accent
You're so right! In my Canon days I carried around huge bags full of lenses and cameras and flashes now I use mainly my Fuji X100 and X-pro1 with the 35mm on and I've got all I need 99% of the time. And I have fun and inspiration. Less is more!
Excellent video! I agree 100%! I regularly limit my creative options as well. My favorite kit to use is my Canon A-1 with an FD 50mm F/1.4, an FD 28mm F/2.8, and an FD 135mm F/3.5. This kit also fits into a little shoulder bag and is very light. I shoot a lot of street photography, so being light on my feet is a must. I mostly shoot black and white films so that further limits creative options but I do keep a pouch if filters for those "Just in case" moments or when I want a specific look. Sometimes I will bring color along just to switch things up a bit and keep my mind fresh. I believe that the old English / Latin proverb of "Necessity is the mother of invention" easily applies to artistic pursuits in the context of taking only the necessary materials/equipment to achieve the work forces one to use those necessary materials/equipment inventively.
I like that saying! How do you find the A-1 for street? I used to use my FE a lot but the shutter is quite loud and I'm trying to get (a little bit) closer to people
@@pushingfilm It is, by no means, a quiet shutter if that's what you're asking. After getting it CLA'd by a local camera repair guy, it wasn't as noticeable. Before that, it suffered a great deal from the infamous Canon shutter squeal.
I get pretty close to people. Shooting with a 50mm for most of my shots helps a little with bridging distance, other times I will use the 135mm if I feel like approaching would disturb the scene. Most of my close shots were pre-focused for distance and I use the hyper-focal distance scale religiously. This lets me get really close so that when I bring the camera to my eye, its only for a split second to frame the shot. I find that time is the most disturbing thing in street photography. The longer you stand there framing up a shot, the more you're noticed. I find that most people don't even turn their head when I walk by them and snap a fast shot. Every now and then, they notice but I will just smile at them and keep walking.
I will also sometimes employ some more dramatic techniques such as pointing my camera in one direction until my subject walks by me or around me to avoid getting into the shot. By then, I'm already focused and ready so I just turn in their direction and fire the shutter. This works best in crowds though.
If you want to see some of my work, I post most of it to my instagram @nicolethornphoto
Ah, the infamous shutter squeak... Luckily it doesn't cause much harm in most cases, just noise!. I see what you mean, everyone has a different approach on the street, but there is a lot of crossover, and i think I employ some of the same techniques. Great, I'll check it out!
On my 1st, 2nd, 3rd etc trip to Japan I took DSLR, 17-50 and 70-200 plus Manfrotto Befree. More than enough gear for me, most days I just had my 80D and all around lens, for specific destinations I knew I'll need a tripod and tele. Ofc evenings out, party and stuff all gear was at the hotel. Tho I have Zenith from 80's and enjoy film occasionally, I love how many options I got on my digital, in light painting for example, where you can instantly check if you messed up and tons of other things. Especially if you're just enthusiast like myself.
Gorgeous shots, Hashem! I ran into this exact problem when I visited San Francisco earlier this year. Brought 3 different cameras and it made any kind of photography near impossible. I eventually just stuck to my Olympus XA and shot through 4 rolls in a few hours. It really does make a difference, although it's always a bit of a challenge when you need to record at times.
For sure! How do you like the XA? I had one a while back but I think I found controlling it was difficult for larger hands, and my rangefinder patch was extremely dim 😅 Keep up the great videos btw 👍
@@pushingfilm It's an alright camera for when you're in a pinch, or if you need a backup film stock, but I don't think its all that great outside of travel situations. I like that I've been able to sneak it into places that require photo passes, but I'm just not a fan of any P&S camera.
Good advice. After obsessing about which cameras to bring on a recent trip I settled for my YashicaMat 124G and my Ricoh GR ll. Glad I made the choice and left other cameras at home.
I'm with you on this too Hashem... I took my favorite cameras on my latest trip to San Francisco, California and ended up with shooting with one or two cameras (35mm and medium format) and ended up shooting more with one camera for convenience and my safety. The best pics came from my Nikon FE2 and Nikorr 85-200mm F2.8 Lens of surfers that were out on the beach catching some fairly good waves. It was nice having the other cameras there as a back up but I never got around to using them after all.
Hey Lang, glad you found it relatable... and I agree sometimes if it's not a nuisance I don't mind having the backup options, especially when just driving around in a car etc. Yeah those surf photos on film were nice!
I love film because using a fully manual camera (I mean what are you doing if you're shooting film in auto?) means that I slow down to really consider every shot. Oftentimes the time it takes to focus and meter helps me find the best possible composition. Not every shot will be great, but statistically I end up with way more good shots per 100.
For added bonus, dark room printing is a soothing, ritual like process. If you want to take your time and calm down, it's a great way to do that.
Agreed!
Excellent topic! I definitely suffer from option anxiety! Not so much because I have too much gear (I don't think I do), but because I can't decide on subject matter or using a particular technique. When I do get an opportunity to go out and photograph, I take my DSLR with two lenses and my drone. So right away I'm questioning myself: Should I fly the drone or do some street or landscape photography? If I decide to use the DSLR then I question what technique do I want to explore? Long exposure? Short depth of field? Hand held? Tripod? Night? HDR? Focus Stacking? Wide angle, Panorama? etc.
I remember shooting with a Diana (toy) Camera. It had one setting, which wasn't all that effective. Basically, if ya saw something interesting or inspiring, click the shutter once and move on. Often times an out-of-focus, light leak image was the best.
So, YES, there is definitely liberation through limitation. To help my photography anxiety, when I go photographing I try to decide exactly what it is I want to photograph (a particular street, building, park, landscape) and how I want to approach it (drone, panorama, hand held, etc.) I still should take some psychotic drugs to lessen my anxiety, but having a plan has helped... a little.
"Zine" Never heard of it. LOVE IT! Great/Cool idea!
Haha I know how you feel. The way I try to curb the situation is pick occasions where I "let" myself take everything, and other times where I force myself to take the minimal setup :-D And yes, pre-planning and visualising definitely helps. Appreciate the feedback!
What is the make and model of the bag at 3:19?
Ona Bowery 🙂
I feel you brother! I went back to San Francisco, California twice this year and brought most of my gear! but ended up shooting with only two cameras (Nikon FE2 and Mamiya RB67 Pro S) that made sense to shoot within the environment I was shooting in. I tend to lean towards my Nikon gear when I shoot 35mm or the Canon gear because I have certain lenses I have that trumps the others! This dilemma is also hard shooting with certain film grains that best suites the mood you want to produce and what camera will give you that feel or vibe! When in doubt! Go with what you like most or bring them all! After all... Who will know? Hahahahaha! Great video Hashem! Loved the Super 8 follow up video!
In May 09 I went to NY with my D700 + grip with 16mm fisheye, 35mm, 50mm and 85mm and with my FM3a.
It weighed a dead donkey, I never used my FM3a and I was constantly trying to decide what to use.
I’m going back in a week with just my M6, a 35mm and a 50mm.
I'll think that'll feel like less burden! enjoy the trip :-D
Great video and well articulated. I've certainly fallen into the trap of bringing too much. My next trip to Chicago in September I'm really limiting my options - Stylus P&S and my Pen F with 38mm lens. That's it... Want to be present and enjoy the trip for what it is!
That there is a near weightless combo! Hope you enjoy the trip 👍
Spot on. An approach that any creative person can benefit from.
I agree! I actually started shooting film again because I felt like digital wasnt challenging me. It's too easy to take the same shot until its perfect or tweak it in lightroom. It was easy for me to just let my gear sit and collect dust. I didn't feel inspired or creative.
With film being limited, I have to make every shot count. Make it worth it. Think about everything. I too, am plagued by GAS. I love collecting, but if I dont shoot it I will sell it. When picking out gear I now think to myself, do i need that? With film, ive always been a 1 camera 1 lens type of guy and try to carry that over to digital. In my mind, the less I carry, the more I have to make use of what I have. The more creative I have to be to make that certain shot in my head with those limitations.
I had an itch to get a rangefinder and have been waiting for the right one to come up in my price range. In the mean time I picked up a Pentax MX with a 50 1.7 and that itch has gone. It has made me think, how often will I put these cameras to work. Is it worth the investment when I have a fully capable 35mm camera here. One thing that many people don't seem to talk about is that GAS actually makes you realize what you want in a certain camera. Maybe when you shoot 1 type of camera so long you dont realize how it limits you. But maybe you get used to it and now think of those "limitations" as quirks. So in reality, other than technical aspects, are there such thing as limitations or are they just all in our head and we just need to figure out how to work around the problem to come to the solution.
Totally agree. It seems like it's all a self discovery experience and journey in a way. I find even through trying lots of gear, you tend to eventually gravitate towards a few main tools that work best for you. In terms of a reasonable priced rangefinder have you ever tried the Bessa?
Hey mate really enjoyed this video, similar to what I have been thinking lately. Love your images and the look of your "Zine" make sure you publish it!
Thanks Paul! Appreciate it. Yeah I just watched your last video and it looks that getaway was real nice! Man I love New Zealand... Only been once but definitely plan to come back 😁
I hope the zine becomes a book, great stuff, really !
Thank you!
I concur with everything you said .. more choice is counter productive , it detracts from creativity ....... ps your zine look great , I would buy it for sure ...
Thanks, really appreciate it!
Totally agree with you. I used to carry my digital with my Mamiya RB67 on hikes. Now I only bring my RB67 with two lenses, two backs and choose on the day of shooting what film to shoot (may occasionally bring a 35mm for panos). Or if I want to go light, I just bring two bodies, a 24mm and a telephoto zoom with one loaded with BnW and other with colour but gonna limit myself further and only go shoot either BnW or colour
Nice, yeah there's something special about taking a medium format camera on trips that makes it worth the extra weight! I've done similar with the pentax 67 which probably close in weight.
Love it. Great perspective on the creative process. Have a great night out and can't wait to see the results from the Purple
Thanks! ended up getting a few interesting (hopefully) snaps :-)
Well said, Great video. Carrying one SLR is enough. I have three SLR Pentax k1000, vivitar v3000s & nikon fm2n which has a broken light metre. Sometimes I confuse or difficult to decide which one should I use , while traveling.
Now I sold My K1000, Fm2, PENTAX mx. Finally I relaxed, having only two Nikon F3, v3000s. Carrying simple & Beautiful
very nice video. I am currently in Marrakesh, Morocco for two weeks and have brought my Mamiya 645 with an 80mm lens and my FE2 with a 35mm lens. However I only carry one with me where ever I go, thus committing to a single camera for an entire day usually. Gets you thinking and shooting with different mindsets and paces. Also, does your voightlander 40mm lens need and adapter to attach to you Nikon?
Oh man, I want to visit Morocco so bad, how are you finding people are with photography? the Ultron 40mm I have is a Nikon mount, so it fits directly 👌
@@pushingfilm Hi, sorry for the late response, I've been without Wifi here for the past few days. To begin, I can't say Moroccans are generally fond of having their photo taken. In street photography I never want to be rude yet if I am inspired to make a photo I will make it. No one has yelled at me for taking a candid photo of them (perhaps I haven't been caught) though, strangely enough yesterday I was taking a photo of an old wall with with peeling orange paint and that upset two men. I simply said sorry and left after a bit of talking. Perhaps they think I snapped a photo of them. I Luckily had two boys around my age (late teens/ early 20's) agree to have their photo taken near the home I was staying at in Marakesh. My friend who speaks Arabic asked for me, which is probably why they said yes.
But don't be deterred by the people not being the most camera friendly. This country is so wildly beautiful, I implore you to consider traveling here. I'm certain you can make excellent photos here.
@@willf.5403 Oh all good man! thanks for the reply. Yeah that sounds similar to what I've heard from other people who've travelled there, but it seems like the people have their reasoning based on their culture and perhaps certain areas of heavy tourism. Definitely wouldn't deter me and do still plan to go some day. One of my old colleagues shot a great series there some years back on 645 film. You should check it out for a bit of quick inspo before going on a walk (google "Nathan Stolz, Coca Cola Dreaming)
I used to shoot a lot of Ilford Pan 400 when I got into film photography. Later on I was shooting many cameras and even more film stock. Lately I got back to Pan400 and a Contax T2. Right now, this is the only combo I am using. M6 and Xpan are in the drawer :)
Nice! would you ever sell the XPan? they are going for really good money lately
@@pushingfilm No way! I love the format, build quality, the lens and it is challenging to shoot. The reason it is now stowed away is to force myself to different formats.
But you are right, price is now about the double I´ve paid
@@b.brauner7500 😁 good answer
Well said. I’ve had that problem on my last trip. Too much gear and not enjoying the moment. Def gonna limit what I bring on my next trip.
"My freedom will be so much the greater and more meaningful the more narrowly I limit my field of action and the more I surround myself with obstacles. Whatever diminishes constraint diminishes strength. The more constraints one imposes, the more one frees one's self of the chains that shackle the spirit."
- Igor Stravinsky
Great stuff, Hachem. Completely agree.
Thanks!
Man, you really right. I got also same digi Setup as you and i used to carry too much around. It's really to be limited in gear, it's an Improvement in the End.
I love this approach.
Perhaps the greatest combat photographer of WWII used only an Argus C3, and processed his film in the field, using combat helmets for trays. He bought a fancier camera at war's end, but those early shots are incomparable.
I definitely feel more liberated and more creative when I limit myself. Certain situations require certain gear, but you can still limit yourself then.
I find that more gear feels limiting and ‘limitations’ feel freeing. Especially for street and travel. I use a bit more gear for weddings but even then I’m only switching things out when I know I’ll need something specific. Great video mate, you make some good points ✌️
With a Leica a 35mm and a 50mm is all you need ...
You're right. Same goes with a Fuji
When two Lenses I would say 28mm & 50mm; when one lens only.......35mm definitely !
Nope, 24mm (XF 16mm f1.4) is my one and only lens.
Dan I haven’t had problems with my Leicas but mileage might vary. I also own Nikons (F3 and FM2) and they’re tough as nails.
With two lenses, deffo 35 and 50. They look consistent on a gallery wall or book. When you shift further to a 28 or 90mm the difference can break visual consistency. I tend to think of the 50 as an outdoor lens and 35 as an indoor lens. Simplicity.
Excellent advice Hasham 😊 I have downsized my collection and my main cameras and it does feel great knowing that I only have a few cameras now and lenses to choose from. I feel like I’ll be more creative and satisfied with my results and it will make me a better photographer 🙂
Yeah nice Kylie! You eventually made the switch away from Canon huh!
@@pushingfilm haha yep it was an inevitable switch I just kept procrastinating ;) Happy I did, just have to get used to the different feel and way it works.
If you don't know what you're going to be photographing just bring one or two generic lenses. If you're setting out specifically for certain photos then bring the specialty lenses. For me travelling I usually just use a 35mm prime. Showing the world as you see it - you can't really go wrong for travel/street stuff.
Agreed!
Great work champion! Proud of your work. We are heading off to NZ in October and on this trip my son is taking his Nikon F4 with 2 lenses and I am taking my RB67 Pro SD with two lenses. I can assure we are practicing your mantra, "Liberation through limitation" otherwise I would be taking my Canon gear.
Thanks heaps! Yeah man, whatever it means for you, take the gear that works. That doesn't sound too bad for an NZ trip, the sights there are well worth it!
I think about this all the time, and in other fields too, like drawing or writing or music, and even school: most of the things I'm proud to have done were done with limited resources and gear, to the point that I've made the key of my work ethic in plenty of situations out of this.
Like you said, film photography already sets some limitations that keep your shooting focused (no pun intended haha) challenging and fun, and that might be the thing I like the most about film.
For travel I am looking to get the successor to sony A6500 as I just want a jack of all trades camera. As the need for taking stills and video increases film for me is not liberating but a limiting factor !
A few lenses, small flash, light tripod that is about all I need.
Great info - gear paralysis is real! I really try to keep it to one digital camera/lens and one film camera/lens at most.
I love Fuji x 100 f 23 mm f 2 , it makes you look for the photo than the photo coming to you via zoom lens and opens up your creative side , btw that accent are you from northside Detroit, MI lol
yes, the 35mm equivalent is so versatile.. Nah man I'm from Australia! :-D
The X-Pro1 with the 50mm equivalent on gives me the same feeling. I either use this one or the X100 depending on the days
Those Colorplus images look great. Did you push the film or shoot at 200? I need to shoot more color w/ my QL17.
Thanks. They were rated at 200 but probably leaning towards overexposure for most of them
Do they still make film cameras?
I agree 100% I have tried discussing this with people but they think I’m just babbling on😂
Hahaha I'm guessing they might not be creative types?
I mostly use the SEL 55-210mm on my Sony A6300, cause i mostly don't need that extrem wide angle of the SEL 16-50mm.
Very good advice.
I just use a smartphone without zoom in autofocus mode. Also very minimal or even no post editing.
Nice!
just out of curiosity, is that flannel made by The Flat Head?
It is indeed! Their stuff is made so well it's already lasted 8 years
Hey man I live in Melbourne and I just started to shoot on film. I see you do workshop where can I find more info? Cheers thank you
Hey nice man. Well probably organise a photowalk soon, then a workshop after that. No dates yet so Best to follow the instagram page or twitter for updates
What was the name of the company you used to make your zine?
It was "Blurb". I'm not sure if I'll go with them for bulk production because shipping is very expensive to where I am, but the quality was quite nice! I used their "trade book" option
@@pushingfilm Thank you
I'm also guilty of taking on vacation everything but the kitchen sink. On the next trip I'm taking one digital and one film camera and maybe an extra lens, period...
purple at night ! that's crazy, can't wait to see :)
I too am a camera and gear collector, who is also an amateur photographer. However, whether traveling across the country or just going out for a couple of hours, I never bring more than one body and two lenses, and more often than not, it's one body, one lens. If you're not a "reader", STOP here.
For professional photographers, they (understandably) have no sentimentality for a camera or lens. It's simply a tool to make money. I am the opposite, digitally, I shoot with a 10 year old DSLR. Nowadays, 10 year old technology is virtually the same as using 50 or even 100 year old technology, however, I simply LOVE the camera, it far exceeds my level of photography, and it does 90% of anything I need it to do. I just bought the exact same model, so that if one ever fails, I have a backup. There is something about the way it feels in my hand. I would swear that my blood pressure drops 20 points just holding it. I have more film cameras than fingers.
Perhaps I would think differently if I were 21 or 28, or 35, however, I am a middle aged man who grew up in a time where you fully expected to buy a Nikon F3 (or whatever) and that that camera would (very happily) last you your entire life. I love craftsmanship, and things that are over-engineered. Of course this is NOT good for marketers or corporate profits. Of course, there will always be new features and whatnot, however, I KNOW for a fact, that no company will EVER build a digital camera body to the standards of the 10 year-old camera I own. It is also a FACT that EVERY Pulitzer Prize winning image you have ever seen in your life, was shot with a camera that makes my 10 year-old body seem like 'state of the art' futuristic technology.
Marketers in every sector of society have really done a number on the overwhelming majority of us in the Western world.
Well said sir! It's great that they made them so well so that we can still use them for decades. Keep collecting, and happy shooting 👍
@@pushingfilm Thank you, sir!
the last 14 months i have acquired an ATROCIOUS case of GAS!! 20 vintage cameras and 35 lenses. unbelievable.
started selling them off, but i am keeping the pentax until they release a mirrorless camera. the price will skyrocket on those bad boys. 📷🤓
I have more cameras than I need. But I always shoot the Canon P with a 35mm 1.8. Basically a Leica M setup like yourself, just everyday, pretty much goes everywhere with me. Talk about comfort zone 😂
Great setup!
I love the title..
it's true that sometimes too much choices kill choice ;)
I carried a digital camera, two film cameras, all associated lenses, tripod, monopod, film, etc., on my trips overseas. I learned every year how to whittle down my gear. That $#¡+ gets heavy really fast. I got some great shots, but I'll never do that again. My Olympus Pen Ft will do just fine in a pocket for quick excursions.
Great video, can I ask what lens you were using on the Canon QL17?
I believe that the Canonet QL17 only came with one pens - a 40mm/f1.7 - which was not interchangeable.
@@danpetreikis Correct. the Canon name scheme reflects lens aperture. QL19, etc.
What brand is the satchel?
It's an Ona Bowery bag
this is smartest words i've heard since, Thanks
Couldn't agree more! That Samsung camera is actually a pretty great camera, though :-)
Great video, strong advices. Txs. Fred
I take one analogue camera my Leica MP + 50mm and my digital Sony A7III with the small 28mm f2 all in a small ona bag. no more and if it's just 1 camera, just the Leica with the 35mm.
That sounds like like a good loadout!
Just curious...the chrome Leica behind you. Which body is that?
M4!
Hey bro, where in Melbourne do you develop your film?
Hey! Lately I've been going to Work in Process or Halide Supply
You work for Carhartt ?
I work for Christopher Nolan, who works with Matthew McConaughey, who works for Carhatt.
@@pushingfilm thats so many reasons to hate you. Nolan is a shame, Matthew a joke. As almost every famous actor.
Subscribed! Good contents.
Fml i have this problem big time🤣i carry 2 cameras and shoot trix and portra of everything i shoot because i cant make up my mind
At least you cant go wrong with that combo!
@@pushingfilm nikon f6 with a 24-70 2.8 across my body and a nikon fm3a with a 40mm voigtlander ultron around my neck😆
@@nickathos7428 Nice, I use and highly rate that Ultron lens on my FE!
@@pushingfilm its an amazing lens that for some reason has flown under the radar
this is why I only shoot with Konica Big Mini no matter what
Another great and capable point and shoot camera!
The people who hire me expect value. When shooting for myself, knowing I am getting the shot is what makes me happy.
Having that instant look results in more successful shots.
A couple days ago, I did a ranch shoot. I shot flower close-ups, horse portraits, longer lens shots of swans, farm equipment and haystacks, mountains, etc.
It works far better for me to think like a boy scout and be prepared for everything, rather than try to do more with less.
Film?
Yes, but I don't rest easy and bet the ranch or my reputation on unknown results.
Of course, different situations call for different options. When I'm hired for a job I'm often lugging 2 bags of stuff 😅 but If I'm travelling or walking the streets, I'm starting to find that less is more.
It’s about the story presented by the image, not the gear that did it. Tell the story with the minimal gear possible.
dictators used to use the same sentence (this is a joke)
If you can't take a decent shot with a Holga you have no business with anything more advanced. Personally, I love shooting with the minimum possible equipment. I pretty much shoot exclusively on a Canon AE-1.