Awesome video. Who goes out and buys a budget used camera to answer somebody's question? I'll tell you who... someone who cares about his fans and tries to help them with the correct answers instead of just ignoring them. Thanks for being the person who encourages us to get out and shoot no matter the equipment we own.
If you really believe he went out and spent his own money on that gear you need to take a reality check. It's called marketing I work for one of the biggest marketing companies in the UK we facilitate this kind of thing every day of the week. When a company of an individual who has a high profile it's called a win, win situation for MPB will make thousands of all the advertising this is giving them.
Very good video Tom. Something I like to keep in mind: If a camera was considered very good 10 years ago, just because new stuff comes out doesn't mean its no longer a very good camera 📸📸
After almost losing my eyesight twice, I am now a photographer. I feel as I was given a gift after gaining back my sight and people started taking notice of my photos. Photography has helped me get somewhat out of depression and it's my passion now...I have an emotional and spiritual connection to it (probably sounds silly but that's how I feel about it). I feel like it gave me a brand new perspective at just how much beauty there is in life and once I started making UA-cam videos about my travels it helps me even more. I've been at it for a little over a year and I've sold a couple of calendars and had someone in the UK actually order a couple of enlarged prints. While I haven't got the funds to go out and buy these expensive cameras I have been using my cameraphone only and it seems to work good enough so far. Luckily, a friend on facebook who is also a photographer gave me for FREE 2 digital canon cameras. I have NO IDEA how to use them as of yet and when I look at manuals I'm totally lost. I am excited, once the weather cools off (I"m in Phoenix,AZ) to get out there and start taking probably even more quality photos...I think I will be doing this for the rest of my life and I am in love with landscape photography!
I started watching you in 2017, when you were shooting with your Canon 5D and solo camping with a tent. Even though I've owned cameras for decades and photographed my children growing up, vacations and other portraits, you made me fall in love with landscape photography. I started going out with my little dog, who I just recently lost about three months ago, and camping overnight to shoot waterfalls, creeks and mountains. You may not realize how much that meant to so many, including me. The beauty was in the adventure of it, and the communion with nature. The gear is important up to a point to meet weight, resolution needs and so forth, but the real importance is in the experience. You gave us all that experience, Thomas. Thank you so much for that, friend.
One of the reasons I love this channel (apart from the massive amount of talent that you display) is that, even when you have all the cool stuff and all the newest toys, you keep reminding us that the core of landscape photography really is the landscape and the photographer… it’s cool to have a nice piece of gear, of course, but ultimately the great satisfaction comes from finding a composition and just shooting it with whatever you have
@4th_Lensman_of_the_apocalypse Or, far too frequently, "The best camera is the one you left at home!" 🙂As the user of some lower-end gear I really appreciate videos like this one.
100%… I own a Nikon Z7ii and D850, but very often shoot old cameras for creativity and the challenge. My favourite image of 2022 was shot with Nikon F3HP and Kodak Gold 200.
I have been a destination wedding photographer for more than a decade and have been working on the now 12 years old Fuji XPro1. Prints large, sharp, and way enough for fine art and luxury events. Gear is just gear and you’ve shown in this video that nothing beats light and composition ! You’re a true master Tom !
I answered just this question for a friend recently. I recommended an Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark ii with an Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Cost from MPB £294 for the body, £134 for the lens. This is a killer package for the money. He loves it and is enjoying the photography life now. It was fun trying to find gear in his budget but really pleasing to know there are options at this budget. The other option I put together for him was a Fuji X-T-1 with a Fuji XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 LM OIS lens. Cost from MPB £319 for the body, £289 for the lens. A bit over 500 but still amazing value.
For this "gear" video you are forgiven! Excellent points, I stopped daydreaming about multi-megapixel mirrorless gear and settled down to enjoying my 10-year old DSLR and inexpensive lens collection because I'm finally making images with it I enjoy and because I'm not going to print A2 or larger. I might buy a more modern one some day, but this channel and others have shown how much it's to do with getting out there, using your eyes and printing the best ones. Cheers!
I have printed 5D MkII pictures at 60x90cm without any problems. (and at such a size you won't go closer than half a meter to the print anyway) You can also consider buying a prime lens like Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG HSM Art (less than 700€ and sharp as hell) and create panoramic shots (stitching the files together with software) which have insane quality beyond 100MP if you want.
Thank you for putting this video together. I am in the position of working at Subway but have a passion for landscape photography so like you suggested I have to do it on a budget and it is a small budget. I shoot with the Canon 5D2 for two reasons one it’s at the point I can afford. The second reason is if something happens to it it’s a lot easier to replace at the lower price point. The images are great especially if you bracket your shots. I paired it up with two older lenses the 24-105 f4, and the 17-40 f4 and man oh man I love that setup for getting the shots. You just proved my point I have been saying that you don’t need the latest or greatest if you truly want to shoot you will find a way to make it work.
Oh man, I can totally relate to that 350 D, also known as the rebel camera. It holds a special place in my heart as it was my very first camera almost 20 years ago. It's crazy to think how back then, camera gear wasn't really a top priority for us. I have vivid memories of those early morning walks in the field, where the scent of hay filled the air and every dew-covered spiderweb seemed like a magical creation straight out of Walt Disney World. Even now, as photography has become my profession, I find myself longing for the simplicity of those days. It was all about exploring the world, playing with light and composition, without worrying about the quality of the camera, lens, or accessories. I guess what I'm trying to say is, as you mentioned in the video, that feeling in the pit of your stomach when you spot the perfect light in the distance, but you're unable to reach it in time to capture the shot... it's a feeling that still resonates with me. Thanks for reminding me of that! ✌
The 5Dii was my first full frame body and it was at this point when looking online for information about it, that I came across your channel all those years ago when you were using the 5Div and the rest they say is history. Forever grateful for you igniting that flame Thomas that burns fiercely in me today
My budget setup from 5 years ago was a Fuji xe1 with the kit lens and a few manual lenses with adapters that I bought before a road trip. All that and a cheap tripod for less than $500 and I learned a lot using those old lenses.
Traded in a mint D700 (25K actuations) with MB-D10, two batteries, two 32GB express cards and some small items. They gave me €300. Add a 35mm and 50mm AI-S lens for less than €75 each, add a ton of enthusiasm for free and your set.
The D700 is more capable, but the 5D2 has higher resolution - closer to what we are used to today (12 vs 21mpx). For landscapes the Canon beats the Nikon. For action I’d pick up the Nikon. For portraits, hmmm… hard choice, AF vs Mpx Nikon vs Canon color science. The Canon has more room for cropping. OTOH if you don’t print BIG the Nikon used to be pro-grade…so they managed. 😊
Not a bad recommendation. Lenses are what really gets you the camera is less important but if you want to get started I would really recommend a full frame camera something like the 5D2, 6D or 5D3 used. The 50mm lens is a very good one to practice with. You could also get an adaptor and use old manual lenses as a way to practice balancing exposure, shutter and aperture without the camera doing it for you.
For a bit of fun, I've just been on MPB' site to see what I could get. Canon: EOS 50D £77.00, Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4 £124.00. Nikon: D3100 £79.00, Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4 £93.00. Manfrotto 190MF3 carbon fibre tripod £94.00. Basics of a kit for between £250 and £300. Plenty of spare cash for filters etc. Fellow youtuber Gary Gough did some videos about a year ago using an EOS 350D he was lucky to get for £19. Keep up the good work on these vids.
I was so pleased when you said what camera you chose as that’s what I brought 3months ago because of the reviews that still show it’s awesome when on a budget. Thanks
I managed to get a Pentax K-1 for £500, with only 4,000 clicks on the shutter. 36mp landscape monster of a camera, fully weathersealed and with an articulated rear screen. I love it.
This is a great video Thomas. I was at the Wildlife Photographer of The Year competition exhibition last weekend and took a lot away from the fact that some of the photos had been taken on cheaper cameras - one on a Rebel T7i and one on a 30D (you can pick one of these up for around £30 second hand at the moment! Really made me think about the whole “does gear matter” question. I’m still of the belief that it’s about the glass in front of the camera and even more so the person behind it!
This film is a wonderful demonstration of why I started following you many years ago, it has nothing to do with cameras, lenses or any other gear, it’s a wonderful demonstration of your enthusiasm, in fact for me your genuine enthusiasm makes your films unmissable! Good one mate! 👏👍😀
The 5D MkII was a ground breaking camera in it's day and I still have mine as a back-up. I have also had a hand shot pano blown up to 2.4m x 1.2m and it looked great!
I Think the Nikon d800/d800e are the probably the best bang for buck landscape cameras in the current market.They sell for around the same as a 5dii does here but offer more resolution (36mp) and much better shadow noise.
My first DSLR was a Nikon D80 I bought used. I have looked at many of those old images and had to confess it was a great camera with just a kit lens. My first DSLR shots were with my son’s Nikon D50 using a Nikkor 20mm prime lens. Those images were sharp and rich in color. The real things that have improved my photos are lessons from you and others sharing your insights and experience. I now have pro-level gear, but if I don’t use it properly, the photos are lackluster and disappointing. This video was an excellent topic to produce and share.
The Canon 5D Mk.2 feature-wise was so revolutionary when it came out! And when I go through my old digital photos today, I always have that feeling that the 5D2 was my oldest digital camera where the files still feel like "current quality" when I re-edit them today!
I’m someone who is new new to photography, but Thomas has inspired me to get out and give it a go. I love this channel and appreciate all that goes in to making it something that people love to watch. Subscribed!
Most videos out there are about the latest gear, thank you Mr. HEATON for thinking of the beginner and people who just can’t afford the ‘latest and greatest’🙏🏽
I actually got my gear from the same 2nd hand place, a canon 760D (I like old mirror DLSR), with a canon 24-105 f4 L IS USM and 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS II USM lenses (I have an old canon 10-22 that I seldom use). This was replacing my old canon 350D, which was my first DLSR too. I do live my best life with this gear 😁 I just recently got an old Semflex medium format TLR for about 50€ and couple of film rolls, and this is pure joy. Great message you send here ! Cheers from France !
Another great alternative is the Nikon D600 or D610. The advantage with this choice is the great Nikon D series glass. It's autofocus, but the autofocus isn't fast. You'll probably be over $300 for the camera, but you can find great old Nikon glass at ridiculously low prices, if you know where to look.
If you don't care about the sensor size, you could have gone with a nikon 1 j5; it's a 20 megapixel bsi 1inch sensor. I just picked one up for 'like new' with a 10-30mm (27-82 equivalent) and a f/1.8 18.5mm (50mm) for $350. I literally just received the camera so I can't 100% say that it's great camera for landscape; but the little that I have used of it seems OK and fun to use. The downside is that the glass is not to the high standard of the Z lenses like my 14-30 or 24-120, but I think it compares well to the old f mount 24-120. However, lenses are not why I got the camera, my plan is to also get the ft1 adapter and mount my old 80-400 lens with a solar filter on; at 2.72 crop factor that'll get me the equivalent of 1088mm. The 80-400 was originally going to go with my zfc but now that I will hopefully be getting the new 180-600 before the October eclipse to do my practice run for the main event in April.
Indeed that’s what I had for 6 years until I dropped it and broke the frame. Can’t get better image quality for the price, plenty of older lenses to choose from too.
I picked up a Canon 6D several years ago when $495 was a great deal. Now they are running around $250 or so it seems. Still a fantastic camera and mine is staying as other cameras go. Some decent glass on it and if you can't make great images, it's you, not the camera. Someone starting out or on a very tight budget (still there) can do their photography much good by getting an older, solid, higher-end camera and decent lens and using it well. Props to you for taking the time and spending the money to show that to those starting out or moving up from their smartphone.
As always a great video. Regarding the budget: I started with a used APS-C Sony Mirrorless. Bought it used and picked it up in mint condition from the guy. He just took some snapshots with it in his vacation. The tip I can give as I was in the same boat with budget: Buy an aluminium tripod. No Travelstuff with Flip-Up Legs. A normal one with 3 sections. Not more. They are sturdy. They weigh a BIT more, but are good. Get one where you can remove the center column or get one with a short one. Ballhead / 3way head. All is fine. They work. Carbon Fiber is nice and I upgraded to one - 6 years later. My aluminium tripod was a Cullmann one. Great thing. For filters: Stick with Round screw ons for the beginning. They are dirt cheap (a pair of 3 costs around 50 bucks) and a polarizer an additional 20. But a "middle of the road" brand. I bought "Haida" Filters. They are not TOP of the line but they are no garbage with a tint. Just decent and do the job. Graduated filters are usually doable with Lightroom Postprocessing IF you are shooting RAW. I like big filters and I can understand grads. But for starting and to get a feel on how much you use them, get round ones and skip Grad filters. This was my entry into Amateur and hobby photography and 7 years down the road I could barely justify a Carbon Fiber Tripod. I bought larger Roundfilters and skipped Square ones again - They are just too expensive for my usage. Edit: Always pick the LARGEST Filter size for the lens you own or you know you will probably own and buy adapter rings for it. It's 2-4 times cheaper than the Square Filters and Brackets.
Great video . This is exactly what I have done. Just over a year ago I bought a 5 D ii with a very low shutter count off eBay for £425.00 and a Nifty Fifty lens ( new ) all together it came to just over £500.00. I have since bought some second hand L lenses to increase the variety of what I can do also have a couple of old EF mount kit lenses from previous cameras. I love the Canon 5D ii and I'm enjoying experiencing my new hobby of landscape photography . The image is just the end product of the experience of the shoot. Keep it coming Thomas I love your stuff !! Cheers John
I love that description of missing shots because you are driving, or in a position of being unable to stop and get the shot. Last year I saw one of the most amazing images I could have ever captured during a drive between Barnard Castle and Middleton in Teesdale, but I had my mother in law in the car, and was unable to pull over hook my gear out of the boot and take what I had spotted. Shame, I have since driven by the same spot twice and nothing of the same quality.
This is exactly how I've rekindled my love of photography. I bought a used Canon 6D and a used Sigma 20 f/1.4 and it's cost me just over 500, luckily I still had an old tripod kicking about. This gives me the opttion of landscape and a bit of astro, feels great to be out shooting again! Great video as always ::)
Great video! Lots of people do not understand that you can do great photos with older/less expensive gear. It is all about waking up early, find the light, look for the subject....
Absolutely! You are correct. Also good to invest small when just beginning. Find out what you can do with less. Grow your gear as you grow your interest, ability, and desire to do more.
I think something like the T7 or SL3 or D3500 starter kits are great. They are around $500 and usually end up on sale around a holiday. You can grow into better lenses as budgets permit and they take great photos.
Very inspirational video for me. Started liking photography when a family member offered me a Canon 4000D with a 18-55mm kit lens. Is still the only camera I got, bought a cheap 55-250mm lens and that’s all I got. Lots of fun. Thanks for this.
Pause for thought, Mr Heaton.... What you've done in making this video is immensely valuable to many people. You've shot gorgeous images in a way that is accessible for many, and you've conveyed the sheer pleasure you had in the process. I struggle to think of anything that could be more 'relevant'. I'd love to see you do more in this vein. As an aside... i was at a similar location in similar conditions yesterday morning. I took my E5 w the 12-60 because i suspected things could get messy. I was on my knees using some rocks with waves breaking over them as a foreground. Beware the seventh wave in the set... the only time both i and the camera got submerged. The image i got in the instant before the wave hit me is the best i have had all year. 24 hours later and me and that old Olympus have dried out and we're both back to functioning normally. We have days like that - Arctic fox moments - and i'm not sure there's anything better. All the best from a cabin in a swamp in a rainforest in New Zealand.
@@ThomasHeatonPhoto I've given you the idea - the raw material - get thee out there - you show me yours then i'll show you mine! (Man, i can't wait for the video of this). 🤣
Great video Thomas, I’m still shooting with a Nikon 7200, would love a full frame camera but being 77 yrs old this one will do. Thanks for sharing this with us.
I've never sold any of my camera kit, since I started in 1976. I could easily sell it all, except my Z mount lenses, and get me a Z8. Won't do it. My last camera purchase was a D800 from your sponsor's USA competition. Last lens was a Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 G to put on it. I have Z system equipment, but the old DSLR just feels right. BTW, I still shoot film with the camera that started it all, the Yashica FX-2... and 7 C/Y mount lenses. I can't get rid of the old stuff. It's still fun to shoot with. My heirs will sell all this stuff to MPB or the "USA competition" in Georgia, USA. They don't love it, but there's a bunch of old stuff, in excellent condition for you youngsters in the future.
Thomas I feel this is an episode many people can relate to, I loved it and thought it is one of your best in a while, some cracking images too. Thanks as always for sharing.
Totally agree Thomas, I recently acquired a Nikon D700 with a 28-80 Nikon kit lens (all up $450 AUD) and am very happy with the image quality, even when compared to my 24 MP Pentax K3.
Thank you for this. I shoot street on a shoestring budget. What I really want is a GRIII/Fuji/Leica, but all are completely out of my budget so I make do with a Canon M100 with the 22mm I got on offer when the M200 came out and some vintage Minolta glass. And with film & development costs going up like everything else, I settled on the original Olympus Pen F for the amazing savings. It shoots great for a 60 year manual. All in all I've spent less than $1000 on my gear, and even though I do still want all of the amazing gear I mentioned, realistically I could also not spend another dime on gear and still take photos until I die.
I started with a 350d after getting it as a hand me down from my dad, now using his 7D that i enharated from him and still gets me realy good resluts for both landscapes, wildlife and aviation. love using it every time because of the conection it has with my dad after his passing. Still use his 100-400 most of the time and recently added a sigma 24mm f1.4 to my kit, second and from MPB. finding the limits of the camra now when it come to AF so feel it time to upgrad now but still with a 14 year old set up i get so many photos that i am happy and proud of. the main thing i have found to progess my photography has been just getting out and taking more photos as well as learing how to edit them.
Great video Thomas. I recently picked up a used Nikon Coolpix A. 18MP APS-C sensor. I’m absolutely blown away by the detail it captures in a tiny point-and-shoot from 2014. It’s not the camera but the person with the vision for a beautiful photograph. Cheers!
Interesting video. The camara is only a tool to get you out there. It's being out at crazy times of day in all weathers and that experience which I've always enjoyed. My first camara was a nikon D3200, loved that camara. Why did I get it. Well I remember sitting in the garden and my daughter saying to me you never go out anymore. I didn't see the point I live in the middle of a field serounded by all I need, so I thought. I got this camara from a secondhand shop for £100, then bought a couple of used lenses. This camara gave me so much joy and I didn't realise how unfit I was just pottering about at home. I was going places locally, up hills, walkies deep in the forest, exploring rivers etc, , building up my physical health. Now I have the nikon D7500 along with 3 lenses and filters. Gifted to me. So I simply gifted away my nikon d3200 to a young person wanting to learn photography on a local photography fb site. I do miss that little camara at times. It's nice to just get out and it's nice to be kind..... Bb
Nice Video. I would go for Nikon, depending on wether you want full frame or APS-C I would either choose a D600 and a Sigma 2,8/24-70 oder D7100 and either a Sigma 2,8/17-50 or a 18-105 Nikkor.
I recently bought a Nikon D7000 for £150 (body only) and an 18-200mm lens for £85. It can be done if you shop around. The shutter count on the camera was only 7,500 too!
Starting out in bird photography I used an Olympus OM-D Em5 and an adapted (MF and f stop) Tamron 70-300 f4-5.6 LD lens. The camera and lens cost less than 150usd (116gbp) altogether. Small light gear to take out to the fields and occasionally capture a nice image. There are some free software programs to help you clean up your photographs, so expensive software isn't a necessity. Wildlife photography isn't only for those who can afford $6,000 cameras and $20,000 lenses.
Brilliant video, and made me feel much better about my ancient Nikon D90 I got second-hand a couple of years ago. Just need to improve my skills now, and learn how to use it fully!
I always liked this Heaton. It's good to see him back. OK, so it's because its an ad for MPB (a great company. I have used them many times. Indeed I just bought a camera and lens from them for less than it was selling on eBay) but good to see you back like this. I hope that this gets tons of views and encourages more like this. There is a desperate need for this sort of "budget" oriented content and no one is really doing it. However, you manage to get good images no matter the kit. Throw in some wild camping rather than the old pervs camper van, and it would be fun again :)
Now that is a great video. I keep telling my clients exactly this. Well illustrated and entertaining, nobody needs a new camera for landscape photography. An old 5DII or a D750 will do the trick no questions asked.
Thanks for that. It's easy to get carried away with jealousy watching UA-camrs when that's not what it's about. I'd love to see more videos with you using that camera. My budget setup is a D7200 with a 35mm dx prime and 55-300mm zoom which in total is around 600 quid in total I think. I'd like more zoom on the lower end but will save up for a good one. The main thing stopping me from taking good pics at the moment is a 10 month old and 2 1/2 year old. I've just not got the time, but that will come.
Thank you, I totally agree with you on what you said. I use old sony gear (a55 and 2 a77ii's) with mainly Tamron lenses and a couple of high-end Sony lens that I picked used since the auto focus no longer worked, not an issue with my landscape photos. As a passing thought, it has taken me a couple of years to get totally familiar with my gear, the idea of upgrading fills me with dread.
Thankyou Thomas, I own a nikon D7200 still not mirrorless , and as you said with mirror lock up it becomes mirrorless . I love your adventures but we all can't jump on a ship to the arctic for example so these grass roots videos of places we can all access are invaluable especially to the beginner.
Another cracking video. I use to use the 5D MKiii, a great camera. Unfortunately, its part of the learning curve to 'think' you need better gear for better results. Whereas, what you really need is to be out more with your gear. I would also add, that if you want greater megapixels but have a limited budget, don't be afraid to use pano's, vertical and horizontal, that will give you a greater resolution.
Good message. All true. A man I used to work with lived on an island alongside the canal where all the boats came and went. He said the guys with the cheapest boats caught the most and best fish. It's not all about the gear, in anything.
On MPB US you can pick up a Pentax K70 with Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 for around your price limit. Yes, it's APSC, but that still a pretty good kit for the price.
I use a Kodak Z-712 right now. I don't print large images, and I love the way the camera works for ME. I also don't have an editing program right now, so I use my phones editing software. I still assert though, you need to come to Northern Michigan, Traverse City, USA. I will take you around!
Greetings from New Zealand. Great video Thomas, thank you, and probably the first time I've felt convicted to comment in a very long time! I've had my Sony A99 Mk1 (24mp) for 11 years now and is accompanied by an array of 2nd hand lenses built up over that time. Never bought new in my life. I can comfortably print landscapes A2+, stitch my panoramas (comes with practice) and now with built in AI in Adobe, I have help controlling excessive noise. Dont see myself upgrading anytime soon. Using my gear is like putting on favourite clothes... oh so very familiar and comfortable and immediately brings a peace when holding it in my hand! Thanks again and take care.
I've been watching your videos for a few years now and I loved today's return of 'Tom gets out there and complains about the weather.' It's what brings this Aussie back each week for more. 🙂 Oh yeah, and your photography. I come back for that as well.
love to check here, no matter those 5 digits. It's about the moment and how you can politely and show others what mother nature gives. The 1st photo is great, i think the shimmer in the stones in the foreground is great. Nothing compared, why take everything away to perfect. Nice to see and nice video. Thank you Warm regards Martin
I bought a Nikon D3400 with 18-55 mm kit lens a few years ago for AUD $750. Since bought a 70-200 mm zoom to go with it. Love the results I get. A friend gave me his Nikon D3000 with the same kit lens. Both produce good results If you are careful with you composition
Good video as usual. A possible project? Do a landscape shoot, like this video with an old folder. Voigtlander, Zeiss, etc. Using a 70 year old camera would be neat to see. Thanks. Dan
Great video Tom. I get emails all the time about affordable cameras and lenses. I used that Tamron 17-35mm for many years and does great, especially when you apply the lens profile in LR.
Great video with a simple but important message. You don’t need the latest and greatest gear to enjoy photography. Canon 5D Mk 2 plus a lens for £500! That’s a great choice. Thanks
I recently got my first DSLR Canon 2000d, and I got kit lens for it 18-55mm and first gear I got for it were three 30 year old Nikkor AF lenses 50mm f1.4, 70-210mm f4 and 35-105mm. And I love to use manual focus because of adapter for f mount to EF, I got some really cool photos. Next piece of gear will be probably intervelometer or ND filter
I guess as a Fuji-photographer I would've picked an X-T1 with the XF18-55. That combination should be within budget and is good for some great images. :)
I still have an Fuji XT1 with a 18-55 kit lens that I take on trips and it's wonderful for all around photography and the odd landscape 'sit down and set it all up' photo.
Well done you have showed how its great to have the very latest kit but good pics is downn to the person taking them yes newer kit makes it easier but you still need the eye for the photograph.
I love your videos when you show how you print your photos. 😍 There is something amazing about seeing your own work being printed in front of your eyes. For a very long time I was dreaming that one day i will sell prints, but somehow that never happened. I find it very “intimidating” to start printing at home. I don’t know why exactly, I guess because I don’t know that much about printing photos. Yes of course just press print, but what if the printed colors don’t match the colors I actually see on my computer? What do I need to do in that situation? How much test prints do I need to do first? Which printer do I need? How much money do a printer costs? What paper is the right paper? How much does it cost the cartridges for the printer? How much photos kann I actually print before changing the printer cartridges? I know I overthink it… 🙈 There are a ton of photographers on UA-cam teaching everything about photography, but to little who teaches everything about printing. Or at least I didn’t find one yet to answer all my questions. 😬
hey Thomas, been watching your video since the time you were using an m50 for your vlogs.. and i have to say that there is a purity to the footage you are capturing with the Canons.. perhaps the way you are presenting them to us as well... thanks mate..
I thought for sure you’d choose Fuji, an X-Pro1 or an X-T1 with an 18mm F2, I’d forgotten about the 5D2. I have an R6 with a few L lens, I also have the above Fuji bodies and I can’t tell images apart for sheer IQ. The AF is another matter, and as a mostly wildlife guy that’s what matters most, but for landscapes and family stuff the Fuji sensor is awesome. Great video Thomas, more UA-camrs should help out their followers with such content as this.
Great idea to make this video! There are plenty of people out there who don't have a large budget but want to get into the hobby. I think they will find this video inspiring, especially given that gorgeous photo you ended up with.
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Awesome video. Who goes out and buys a budget used camera to answer somebody's question? I'll tell you who... someone who cares about his fans and tries to help them with the correct answers instead of just ignoring them. Thanks for being the person who encourages us to get out and shoot no matter the equipment we own.
It's sponsored by MPB, a used gear platform. They probably lent or provided him the camera. Still a great video!
@@Stainless404 northrups did one very similar with the same concept but their's was so unbearably schilly it was unwatchable.
Ok Stan, gotcha.
If you really believe he went out and spent his own money on that gear you need to take a reality check. It's called marketing I work for one of the biggest marketing companies in the UK we facilitate this kind of thing every day of the week. When a company of an individual who has a high profile it's called a win, win situation for MPB will make thousands of all the advertising this is giving them.
@@Stainless404 No let me correct you, you are correct to a certain extent, read my comment below this will explain better.
Very good video Tom. Something I like to keep in mind: If a camera was considered very good 10 years ago, just because new stuff comes out doesn't mean its no longer a very good camera 📸📸
After almost losing my eyesight twice, I am now a photographer. I feel as I was given a gift after gaining back my sight and people started taking notice of my photos. Photography has helped me get somewhat out of depression and it's my passion now...I have an emotional and spiritual connection to it (probably sounds silly but that's how I feel about it). I feel like it gave me a brand new perspective at just how much beauty there is in life and once I started making UA-cam videos about my travels it helps me even more. I've been at it for a little over a year and I've sold a couple of calendars and had someone in the UK actually order a couple of enlarged prints. While I haven't got the funds to go out and buy these expensive cameras I have been using my cameraphone only and it seems to work good enough so far. Luckily, a friend on facebook who is also a photographer gave me for FREE 2 digital canon cameras. I have NO IDEA how to use them as of yet and when I look at manuals I'm totally lost. I am excited, once the weather cools off (I"m in Phoenix,AZ) to get out there and start taking probably even more quality photos...I think I will be doing this for the rest of my life and I am in love with landscape photography!
Thanks a lot for taking the time to leave such a great comment. I wish you all the best going forward with your photography 👍👍
nothing like almost losing something to appreciate it.
I started watching you in 2017, when you were shooting with your Canon 5D and solo camping with a tent. Even though I've owned cameras for decades and photographed my children growing up, vacations and other portraits, you made me fall in love with landscape photography. I started going out with my little dog, who I just recently lost about three months ago, and camping overnight to shoot waterfalls, creeks and mountains. You may not realize how much that meant to so many, including me. The beauty was in the adventure of it, and the communion with nature. The gear is important up to a point to meet weight, resolution needs and so forth, but the real importance is in the experience. You gave us all that experience, Thomas. Thank you so much for that, friend.
One of the reasons I love this channel (apart from the massive amount of talent that you display) is that, even when you have all the cool stuff and all the newest toys, you keep reminding us that the core of landscape photography really is the landscape and the photographer… it’s cool to have a nice piece of gear, of course, but ultimately the great satisfaction comes from finding a composition and just shooting it with whatever you have
Yeah, for sure. Gear is nice, it really is, but it's useless without everything else such as timing, light, creativity etc 👍👍
@4th_Lensman_of_the_apocalypse Or, far too frequently, "The best camera is the one you left at home!" 🙂As the user of some lower-end gear I really appreciate videos like this one.
100%… I own a Nikon Z7ii and D850, but very often shoot old cameras for creativity and the challenge. My favourite image of 2022 was shot with Nikon F3HP and Kodak Gold 200.
Can't agree more! Getting to the location at the right condition is the core of landscape photography.
As I am on a budget I used a Sony a6000 with old vintage manual lenses. Perfect for landscapes as you don’t need any autofocus.
I've been shooting on an a6000 while my primary camera is in for repairs, and I had forgotten how lovely they were to use.
I have two a6000 bodies - spend money on lenses to improve.
I have been a destination wedding photographer for more than a decade and have been working on the now 12 years old Fuji XPro1. Prints large, sharp, and way enough for fine art and luxury events. Gear is just gear and you’ve shown in this video that nothing beats light and composition ! You’re a true master Tom !
I answered just this question for a friend recently. I recommended an Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark ii with an Olympus M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 Cost from MPB £294 for the body, £134 for the lens.
This is a killer package for the money. He loves it and is enjoying the photography life now. It was fun trying to find gear in his budget but really pleasing to know there are options at this budget.
The other option I put together for him was a Fuji X-T-1 with a Fuji XF 18-55mm f/2.8-4 LM OIS lens. Cost from MPB £319 for the body, £289 for the lens. A bit over 500 but still amazing value.
MFT is an awesome option for those starting out.
Was going to suggest the same. MFT lenses alone are such a massive saving, and the em5 mkii is a cracker.
When it was time to upgrade to a pro camera I nearly chose this camera. My wife shoots Olympus and the color is beautiful.
This hearkens back to the early videos I used watch on your channel. Really enjoyed the content on this one. Cheers.
For this "gear" video you are forgiven! Excellent points, I stopped daydreaming about multi-megapixel mirrorless gear and settled down to enjoying my 10-year old DSLR and inexpensive lens collection because I'm finally making images with it I enjoy and because I'm not going to print A2 or larger. I might buy a more modern one some day, but this channel and others have shown how much it's to do with getting out there, using your eyes and printing the best ones. Cheers!
I have printed 5D MkII pictures at 60x90cm without any problems. (and at such a size you won't go closer than half a meter to the print anyway)
You can also consider buying a prime lens like Sigma 35mm f1.4 DG HSM Art (less than 700€ and sharp as hell) and create panoramic shots (stitching the files together with software) which have insane quality beyond 100MP if you want.
Thank you for putting this video together. I am in the position of working at Subway but have a passion for landscape photography so like you suggested I have to do it on a budget and it is a small budget. I shoot with the Canon 5D2 for two reasons one it’s at the point I can afford. The second reason is if something happens to it it’s a lot easier to replace at the lower price point. The images are great especially if you bracket your shots. I paired it up with two older lenses the 24-105 f4, and the 17-40 f4 and man oh man I love that setup for getting the shots. You just proved my point I have been saying that you don’t need the latest or greatest if you truly want to shoot you will find a way to make it work.
Finally!!! A video that normal budgets can relate to. Thank you 👍🏆
Oh man, I can totally relate to that 350 D, also known as the rebel camera. It holds a special place in my heart as it was my very first camera almost 20 years ago. It's crazy to think how back then, camera gear wasn't really a top priority for us. I have vivid memories of those early morning walks in the field, where the scent of hay filled the air and every dew-covered spiderweb seemed like a magical creation straight out of Walt Disney World.
Even now, as photography has become my profession, I find myself longing for the simplicity of those days. It was all about exploring the world, playing with light and composition, without worrying about the quality of the camera, lens, or accessories. I guess what I'm trying to say is, as you mentioned in the video, that feeling in the pit of your stomach when you spot the perfect light in the distance, but you're unable to reach it in time to capture the shot... it's a feeling that still resonates with me. Thanks for reminding me of that! ✌
The 5Dii was my first full frame body and it was at this point when looking online for information about it, that I came across your channel all those years ago when you were using the 5Div and the rest they say is history. Forever grateful for you igniting that flame Thomas that burns fiercely in me today
My budget setup from 5 years ago was a Fuji xe1 with the kit lens and a few manual lenses with adapters that I bought before a road trip. All that and a cheap tripod for less than $500 and I learned a lot using those old lenses.
Now Xe1s get posted for $600 alone
@@isaiahherve really? That’s crazy. I think I paid less than $200 for the body with a couple batteries
Nikon D700 or Canon 5D II, either can make top notch images and are both really tough. Fair play on the lens! Great video once again Thomas
I've just bought a D700 with an 80-200mm 2.8 for £400 together. I cannot wait to use them tomorrow 👍👍
Traded in a mint D700 (25K actuations) with MB-D10, two batteries, two 32GB express cards and some small items. They gave me €300. Add a 35mm and 50mm AI-S lens for less than €75 each, add a ton of enthusiasm for free and your set.
The D700 is more capable, but the 5D2 has higher resolution - closer to what we are used to today (12 vs 21mpx).
For landscapes the Canon beats the Nikon. For action I’d pick up the Nikon. For portraits, hmmm… hard choice, AF vs Mpx
Nikon vs Canon color science. The Canon has more room for cropping. OTOH if you don’t print BIG the Nikon used to be pro-grade…so they managed. 😊
Not a bad recommendation.
Lenses are what really gets you the camera is less important but if you want to get started I would really recommend a full frame camera something like the 5D2, 6D or 5D3 used. The 50mm lens is a very good one to practice with. You could also get an adaptor and use old manual lenses as a way to practice balancing exposure, shutter and aperture without the camera doing it for you.
Great to see landscape photography UA-cam videos with budget gear.
For a bit of fun, I've just been on MPB' site to see what I could get. Canon: EOS 50D £77.00, Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4 £124.00. Nikon: D3100 £79.00, Sigma 17-35mm F2.8-4 £93.00. Manfrotto 190MF3 carbon fibre tripod £94.00. Basics of a kit for between £250 and £300. Plenty of spare cash for filters etc. Fellow youtuber Gary Gough did some videos about a year ago using an EOS 350D he was lucky to get for £19. Keep up the good work on these vids.
I was so pleased when you said what camera you chose as that’s what I brought 3months ago because of the reviews that still show it’s awesome when on a budget. Thanks
I managed to get a Pentax K-1 for £500, with only 4,000 clicks on the shutter. 36mp landscape monster of a camera, fully weathersealed and with an articulated rear screen. I love it.
The old adage: “The best camera is the one you have with you “… applies here too… excellent and well observed Thomas… D7000 for me… love it….
This is a great video Thomas. I was at the Wildlife Photographer of The Year competition exhibition last weekend and took a lot away from the fact that some of the photos had been taken on cheaper cameras - one on a Rebel T7i and one on a 30D (you can pick one of these up for around £30 second hand at the moment! Really made me think about the whole “does gear matter” question. I’m still of the belief that it’s about the glass in front of the camera and even more so the person behind it!
This film is a wonderful demonstration of why I started following you many years ago, it has nothing to do with cameras, lenses or any other gear, it’s a wonderful demonstration of your enthusiasm, in fact for me your genuine enthusiasm makes your films unmissable! Good one mate! 👏👍😀
Thanks a lot. I appreciate it.
The 5D MkII was a ground breaking camera in it's day and I still have mine as a back-up. I have also had a hand shot pano blown up to 2.4m x 1.2m and it looked great!
Great video with a message that should be broadcast more.
Loved the shots especially the one you printed.
I Think the Nikon d800/d800e are the probably the best bang for buck landscape cameras in the current market.They sell for around the same as a 5dii does here but offer more resolution (36mp) and much better shadow noise.
My first DSLR was a Nikon D80 I bought used. I have looked at many of those old images and had to confess it was a great camera with just a kit lens. My first DSLR shots were with my son’s Nikon D50 using a Nikkor 20mm prime lens. Those images were sharp and rich in color. The real things that have improved my photos are lessons from you and others sharing your insights and experience. I now have pro-level gear, but if I don’t use it properly, the photos are lackluster and disappointing. This video was an excellent topic to produce and share.
Those were beautiful CCD sensor cameras, more film like saturated images
The Canon 5D Mk.2 feature-wise was so revolutionary when it came out! And when I go through my old digital photos today, I always have that feeling that the 5D2 was my oldest digital camera where the files still feel like "current quality" when I re-edit them today!
I’m someone who is new new to photography, but Thomas has inspired me to get out and give it a go. I love this channel and appreciate all that goes in to making it something that people love to watch. Subscribed!
Just checked the price of a Nikon D610 on your sponsor's site and it's down there if anybody needs a solid DSLR, I still shoot with mine.
This experience is more down to earth, Thomas - A reality check and more relevant
Most videos out there are about the latest gear, thank you Mr. HEATON for thinking of the beginner and people who just can’t afford the ‘latest and greatest’🙏🏽
Thanks again for your hard work, I think the image you printed, perfectly sums up a British summer, excellent
I actually got my gear from the same 2nd hand place, a canon 760D (I like old mirror DLSR), with a canon 24-105 f4 L IS USM and 70-300mm f4-5.6 IS II USM lenses (I have an old canon 10-22 that I seldom use). This was replacing my old canon 350D, which was my first DLSR too.
I do live my best life with this gear 😁
I just recently got an old Semflex medium format TLR for about 50€ and couple of film rolls, and this is pure joy.
Great message you send here ! Cheers from France !
I’d be lying if I didn’t give out a little “chuckle” seeing you shoot with that Canon. Really brought me back when I first subscribed to this channel!
Another great alternative is the Nikon D600 or D610. The advantage with this choice is the great Nikon D series glass. It's autofocus, but the autofocus isn't fast. You'll probably be over $300 for the camera, but you can find great old Nikon glass at ridiculously low prices, if you know where to look.
I almost went down the Nikon route, but couldn't find a combo that would come in at less than £500.
If you don't care about the sensor size, you could have gone with a nikon 1 j5; it's a 20 megapixel bsi 1inch sensor. I just picked one up for 'like new' with a 10-30mm (27-82 equivalent) and a f/1.8 18.5mm (50mm) for $350. I literally just received the camera so I can't 100% say that it's great camera for landscape; but the little that I have used of it seems OK and fun to use. The downside is that the glass is not to the high standard of the Z lenses like my 14-30 or 24-120, but I think it compares well to the old f mount 24-120.
However, lenses are not why I got the camera, my plan is to also get the ft1 adapter and mount my old 80-400 lens with a solar filter on; at 2.72 crop factor that'll get me the equivalent of 1088mm. The 80-400 was originally going to go with my zfc but now that I will hopefully be getting the new 180-600 before the October eclipse to do my practice run for the main event in April.
Indeed that’s what I had for 6 years until I dropped it and broke the frame. Can’t get better image quality for the price, plenty of older lenses to choose from too.
I picked up a Canon 6D several years ago when $495 was a great deal. Now they are running around $250 or so it seems. Still a fantastic camera and mine is staying as other cameras go. Some decent glass on it and if you can't make great images, it's you, not the camera. Someone starting out or on a very tight budget (still there) can do their photography much good by getting an older, solid, higher-end camera and decent lens and using it well. Props to you for taking the time and spending the money to show that to those starting out or moving up from their smartphone.
As always a great video.
Regarding the budget:
I started with a used APS-C Sony Mirrorless. Bought it used and picked it up in mint condition from the guy. He just took some snapshots with it in his vacation.
The tip I can give as I was in the same boat with budget:
Buy an aluminium tripod. No Travelstuff with Flip-Up Legs. A normal one with 3 sections. Not more. They are sturdy. They weigh a BIT more, but are good. Get one where you can remove the center column or get one with a short one. Ballhead / 3way head. All is fine. They work. Carbon Fiber is nice and I upgraded to one - 6 years later. My aluminium tripod was a Cullmann one. Great thing.
For filters: Stick with Round screw ons for the beginning. They are dirt cheap (a pair of 3 costs around 50 bucks) and a polarizer an additional 20. But a "middle of the road" brand. I bought "Haida" Filters. They are not TOP of the line but they are no garbage with a tint. Just decent and do the job.
Graduated filters are usually doable with Lightroom Postprocessing IF you are shooting RAW. I like big filters and I can understand grads. But for starting and to get a feel on how much you use them, get round ones and skip Grad filters.
This was my entry into Amateur and hobby photography and 7 years down the road I could barely justify a Carbon Fiber Tripod. I bought larger Roundfilters and skipped Square ones again - They are just too expensive for my usage.
Edit: Always pick the LARGEST Filter size for the lens you own or you know you will probably own and buy adapter rings for it. It's 2-4 times cheaper than the Square Filters and Brackets.
Great video . This is exactly what I have done. Just over a year ago I bought a 5 D ii with a very low shutter count off eBay for £425.00 and a Nifty Fifty lens ( new ) all together it came to just over £500.00. I have since bought some second hand L lenses to increase the variety of what I can do also have a couple of old EF mount kit lenses from previous cameras. I love the Canon 5D ii and I'm enjoying experiencing my new hobby of landscape photography . The image is just the end product of the experience of the shoot. Keep it coming Thomas I love your stuff !! Cheers John
I love that description of missing shots because you are driving, or in a position of being unable to stop and get the shot. Last year I saw one of the most amazing images I could have ever captured during a drive between Barnard Castle and Middleton in Teesdale, but I had my mother in law in the car, and was unable to pull over hook my gear out of the boot and take what I had spotted. Shame, I have since driven by the same spot twice and nothing of the same quality.
This is exactly how I've rekindled my love of photography. I bought a used Canon 6D and a used Sigma 20 f/1.4 and it's cost me just over 500, luckily I still had an old tripod kicking about. This gives me the opttion of landscape and a bit of astro, feels great to be out shooting again! Great video as always ::)
Great video! Lots of people do not understand that you can do great photos with older/less expensive gear. It is all about waking up early, find the light, look for the subject....
Absolutely! You are correct. Also good to invest small when just beginning. Find out what you can do with less. Grow your gear as you grow your interest, ability, and desire to do more.
Thanks for always shooting us straight Thomas.
I think something like the T7 or SL3 or D3500 starter kits are great. They are around $500 and usually end up on sale around a holiday. You can grow into better lenses as budgets permit and they take great photos.
I have the T7i and it is really good as a first camera! Oddly, the more important gear recently for me has been a ball head and beginner ND filters.
Very inspirational video for me.
Started liking photography when a family member offered me a Canon 4000D with a 18-55mm kit lens.
Is still the only camera I got, bought a cheap 55-250mm lens and that’s all I got.
Lots of fun.
Thanks for this.
Pause for thought, Mr Heaton.... What you've done in making this video is immensely valuable to many people. You've shot gorgeous images in a way that is accessible for many, and you've conveyed the sheer pleasure you had in the process. I struggle to think of anything that could be more 'relevant'. I'd love to see you do more in this vein. As an aside... i was at a similar location in similar conditions yesterday morning. I took my E5 w the 12-60 because i suspected things could get messy. I was on my knees using some rocks with waves breaking over them as a foreground. Beware the seventh wave in the set... the only time both i and the camera got submerged. The image i got in the instant before the wave hit me is the best i have had all year. 24 hours later and me and that old Olympus have dried out and we're both back to functioning normally. We have days like that - Arctic fox moments - and i'm not sure there's anything better. All the best from a cabin in a swamp in a rainforest in New Zealand.
Now I want to see that wave image!!
@@ThomasHeatonPhoto I've given you the idea - the raw material - get thee out there - you show me yours then i'll show you mine! (Man, i can't wait for the video of this). 🤣
Great video Thomas, I’m still shooting with a Nikon 7200, would love a full frame camera but being 77 yrs old this one will do. Thanks for sharing this with us.
I've never sold any of my camera kit, since I started in 1976. I could easily sell it all, except my Z mount lenses, and get me a Z8. Won't do it. My last camera purchase was a D800 from your sponsor's USA competition. Last lens was a Nikkor 24-120mm f/4 G to put on it. I have Z system equipment, but the old DSLR just feels right. BTW, I still shoot film with the camera that started it all, the Yashica FX-2... and 7 C/Y mount lenses. I can't get rid of the old stuff. It's still fun to shoot with. My heirs will sell all this stuff to MPB or the "USA competition" in Georgia, USA. They don't love it, but there's a bunch of old stuff, in excellent condition for you youngsters in the future.
I totally agree Tom, people tend to invest to much in gear and not enough in skills and experience.
Completely right.
350D was my first DSLR too! I went to Celaya today with my $40 400D and I like the photos as much as my 5Dii! All sharp. Great b&w jpegs!
Lovely photos and lots of common sense about art, aesthetics and getting out there trumping all else.
Thomas I feel this is an episode many people can relate to, I loved it and thought it is one of your best in a while, some cracking images too. Thanks as always for sharing.
Totally agree with you - an important episode delivered well.
Totally agree Thomas, I recently acquired a Nikon D700 with a 28-80 Nikon kit lens (all up $450 AUD) and am very happy with the image quality, even when compared to my 24 MP Pentax K3.
Agreed
I bought a D700, as a knockabout, shooting with 28 & 50mm AIS lenses and loving it !
Thank you for this. I shoot street on a shoestring budget. What I really want is a GRIII/Fuji/Leica, but all are completely out of my budget so I make do with a Canon M100 with the 22mm I got on offer when the M200 came out and some vintage Minolta glass. And with film & development costs going up like everything else, I settled on the original Olympus Pen F for the amazing savings. It shoots great for a 60 year manual. All in all I've spent less than $1000 on my gear, and even though I do still want all of the amazing gear I mentioned, realistically I could also not spend another dime on gear and still take photos until I die.
I started with a 350d after getting it as a hand me down from my dad, now using his 7D that i enharated from him and still gets me realy good resluts for both landscapes, wildlife and aviation. love using it every time because of the conection it has with my dad after his passing. Still use his 100-400 most of the time and recently added a sigma 24mm f1.4 to my kit, second and from MPB. finding the limits of the camra now when it come to AF so feel it time to upgrad now but still with a 14 year old set up i get so many photos that i am happy and proud of. the main thing i have found to progess my photography has been just getting out and taking more photos as well as learing how to edit them.
Excellent video. Absolutely love my Nikon D700 with the Tamron 24-70 f2.8 and Tamron 70-200 f2.8. That’s all the kit I need.
Great video Thomas. I recently picked up a used Nikon Coolpix A. 18MP APS-C sensor. I’m absolutely blown away by the detail it captures in a tiny point-and-shoot from 2014. It’s not the camera but the person with the vision for a beautiful photograph. Cheers!
Interesting video. The camara is only a tool to get you out there. It's being out at crazy times of day in all weathers and that experience which I've always enjoyed.
My first camara was a nikon D3200, loved that camara. Why did I get it. Well I remember sitting in the garden and my daughter saying to me you never go out anymore. I didn't see the point I live in the middle of a field serounded by all I need, so I thought. I got this camara from a secondhand shop for £100, then bought a couple of used lenses. This camara gave me so much joy and I didn't realise how unfit I was just pottering about at home. I was going places locally, up hills, walkies deep in the forest, exploring rivers etc, , building up my physical health.
Now I have the nikon D7500 along with 3 lenses and filters. Gifted to me. So I simply gifted away my nikon d3200 to a young person wanting to learn photography on a local photography fb site. I do miss that little camara at times.
It's nice to just get out and it's nice to be kind..... Bb
Nice Video. I would go for Nikon, depending on wether you want full frame or APS-C I would either choose a D600 and a Sigma 2,8/24-70 oder D7100 and either a Sigma 2,8/17-50 or a 18-105 Nikkor.
I recently bought a Nikon D7000 for £150 (body only) and an 18-200mm lens for £85. It can be done if you shop around. The shutter count on the camera was only 7,500 too!
Starting out in bird photography I used an Olympus OM-D Em5 and an adapted (MF and f stop) Tamron 70-300 f4-5.6 LD lens. The camera and lens cost less than 150usd (116gbp) altogether. Small light gear to take out to the fields and occasionally capture a nice image. There are some free software programs to help you clean up your photographs, so expensive software isn't a necessity. Wildlife photography isn't only for those who can afford $6,000 cameras and $20,000 lenses.
Brilliant video, and made me feel much better about my ancient Nikon D90 I got second-hand a couple of years ago. Just need to improve my skills now, and learn how to use it fully!
I always liked this Heaton. It's good to see him back. OK, so it's because its an ad for MPB (a great company. I have used them many times. Indeed I just bought a camera and lens from them for less than it was selling on eBay) but good to see you back like this. I hope that this gets tons of views and encourages more like this. There is a desperate need for this sort of "budget" oriented content and no one is really doing it. However, you manage to get good images no matter the kit. Throw in some wild camping rather than the old pervs camper van, and it would be fun again :)
Great video. Very honest work. In the end, photography is all about love, not money 😊
I imagine Thomas thirthy years on still having this enthusiasm on this location!
Now that is a great video. I keep telling my clients exactly this. Well illustrated and entertaining, nobody needs a new camera for landscape photography. An old 5DII or a D750 will do the trick no questions asked.
Thanks for that. It's easy to get carried away with jealousy watching UA-camrs when that's not what it's about. I'd love to see more videos with you using that camera.
My budget setup is a D7200 with a 35mm dx prime and 55-300mm zoom which in total is around 600 quid in total I think. I'd like more zoom on the lower end but will save up for a good one.
The main thing stopping me from taking good pics at the moment is a 10 month old and 2 1/2 year old. I've just not got the time, but that will come.
Thank you, I totally agree with you on what you said. I use old sony gear (a55 and 2 a77ii's) with mainly Tamron lenses and a couple of high-end Sony lens that I picked used since the auto focus no longer worked, not an issue with my landscape photos. As a passing thought, it has taken me a couple of years to get totally familiar with my gear, the idea of upgrading fills me with dread.
Thankyou Thomas, I own a nikon D7200 still not mirrorless , and as you said with mirror lock up it becomes mirrorless . I love your adventures but we all can't jump on a ship to the arctic for example so these grass roots videos of places we can all access are invaluable especially to the beginner.
Another cracking video. I use to use the 5D MKiii, a great camera. Unfortunately, its part of the learning curve to 'think' you need better gear for better results. Whereas, what you really need is to be out more with your gear. I would also add, that if you want greater megapixels but have a limited budget, don't be afraid to use pano's, vertical and horizontal, that will give you a greater resolution.
Good message. All true. A man I used to work with lived on an island alongside the canal where all the boats came and went. He said the guys with the cheapest boats caught the most and best fish. It's not all about the gear, in anything.
On MPB US you can pick up a Pentax K70 with Sigma 24-70 f/2.8 for around your price limit. Yes, it's APSC, but that still a pretty good kit for the price.
Im still shooting lumix gx80 and i love it paired with 100-300 for local birdphotography and its cool the proces of making photos is enjoable
I use a Kodak Z-712 right now. I don't print large images, and I love the way the camera works for ME. I also don't have an editing program right now, so I use my phones editing software. I still assert though, you need to come to Northern Michigan, Traverse City, USA. I will take you around!
Greetings from New Zealand. Great video Thomas, thank you, and probably the first time I've felt convicted to comment in a very long time! I've had my Sony A99 Mk1 (24mp) for 11 years now and is accompanied by an array of 2nd hand lenses built up over that time. Never bought new in my life. I can comfortably print landscapes A2+, stitch my panoramas (comes with practice) and now with built in AI in Adobe, I have help controlling excessive noise. Dont see myself upgrading anytime soon. Using my gear is like putting on favourite clothes... oh so very familiar and comfortable and immediately brings a peace when holding it in my hand! Thanks again and take care.
I've been watching your videos for a few years now and I loved today's return of 'Tom gets out there and complains about the weather.' It's what brings this Aussie back each week for more. 🙂
Oh yeah, and your photography. I come back for that as well.
Great video, my favourite video’s from you is when you were shooting with the 5d mk4, they weren’t gear focused
love to check here, no matter those 5 digits. It's about the moment and how you can politely and show others what mother nature gives.
The 1st photo is great, i think the shimmer in the stones in the foreground is great.
Nothing compared, why take everything away to perfect.
Nice to see and nice video.
Thank you Warm regards Martin
Just proves it’s the photographer not the camera, nice one Thomas 👏🏼👏🏼👏🏼
This was a good mix of the challenge of photography and setting a challenge for yourself. Great video and thoughts as always. 🍻
I bought a Nikon D3400 with 18-55 mm kit lens a few years ago for AUD $750. Since bought a 70-200 mm zoom to go with it. Love the results I get. A friend gave me his Nikon D3000 with the same kit lens. Both produce good results If you are careful with you composition
Great video.I landed on a good deal recently with a Canon D2000 with an 18-55 lens and a 75-300 lens all for £499.99.
Good video as usual.
A possible project?
Do a landscape shoot, like this video with an old folder.
Voigtlander, Zeiss, etc.
Using a 70 year old camera would be neat to see.
Thanks.
Dan
Absolutely agree. I have a Canon 5Dmk4 and a 7Dmk2 and a few lenses nothing fancy and I have a ball. Thats all that matters to me.
Great video Tom. I get emails all the time about affordable cameras and lenses. I used that Tamron 17-35mm for many years and does great, especially when you apply the lens profile in LR.
Great video with a simple but important message. You don’t need the latest and greatest gear to enjoy photography.
Canon 5D Mk 2 plus a lens for £500! That’s a great choice.
Thanks
I recently got my first DSLR Canon 2000d, and I got kit lens for it 18-55mm and first gear I got for it were three 30 year old Nikkor AF lenses 50mm f1.4, 70-210mm f4 and 35-105mm. And I love to use manual focus because of adapter for f mount to EF, I got some really cool photos. Next piece of gear will be probably intervelometer or ND filter
I still use a 5dii! Mainly for wildlife but sometimes for landscapes with a canon 17-55 👍👍
I guess as a Fuji-photographer I would've picked an X-T1 with the XF18-55. That combination should be within budget and is good for some great images. :)
I own the 5Dmk2 and have been using it for years and very happy with it.
Great video Thomas, the marketing is all about the megapixels and you showed it's all about the photographer.
I still have an Fuji XT1 with a 18-55 kit lens that I take on trips and it's wonderful for all around photography and the odd landscape 'sit down and set it all up' photo.
Well done you have showed how its great to have the very latest kit but good pics is downn to the person taking them yes newer kit makes it easier but you still need the eye for the photograph.
I love your videos when you show how you print your photos. 😍 There is something amazing about seeing your own work being printed in front of your eyes. For a very long time I was dreaming that one day i will sell prints, but somehow that never happened. I find it very “intimidating” to start printing at home. I don’t know why exactly, I guess because I don’t know that much about printing photos. Yes of course just press print, but what if the printed colors don’t match the colors I actually see on my computer? What do I need to do in that situation? How much test prints do I need to do first? Which printer do I need? How much money do a printer costs? What paper is the right paper? How much does it cost the cartridges for the printer? How much photos kann I actually print before changing the printer cartridges? I know I overthink it… 🙈 There are a ton of photographers on UA-cam teaching everything about photography, but to little who teaches everything about printing. Or at least I didn’t find one yet to answer all my questions. 😬
hey Thomas, been watching your video since the time you were using an m50 for your vlogs.. and i have to say that there is a purity to the footage you are capturing with the Canons.. perhaps the way you are presenting them to us as well... thanks mate..
I thought for sure you’d choose Fuji, an X-Pro1 or an X-T1 with an 18mm F2, I’d forgotten about the 5D2. I have an R6 with a few L lens, I also have the above Fuji bodies and I can’t tell images apart for sheer IQ. The AF is another matter, and as a mostly wildlife guy that’s what matters most, but for landscapes and family stuff the Fuji sensor is awesome.
Great video Thomas, more UA-camrs should help out their followers with such content as this.
Great idea to make this video! There are plenty of people out there who don't have a large budget but want to get into the hobby. I think they will find this video inspiring, especially given that gorgeous photo you ended up with.