Nah, doesn't sound like as if just a mood-of-the-day. It sounds well founded and consistent to his style and how he sees the world around him. Same reason why he avoids these gimmicky ultra-wide-angle cliché perspectives, the stuff which beginners like so much when they just bought their first ultra wide angle zoom 😉
The “I don’t need telephoto lenses “ video will disappear into the archives with the “ I don’t see the point in selling presets and I’ll never do it” video.
It's better than all those landscape foto's in wich something of interest is in the foreground and all things in the shade show miraculus details. Boring.... I do not always like the hyper lifting of all the shadows in James's pictures, but they in general beat 90% of what I see online.
About a Month. It took me about a month to watch this channel. From the very first video to today. This channel is a gem for me. Thanks for the inspiration, James
It took me two months. I just skipped editing and collage old videos because they're not for me. I couldn't agree more. It's also cool to see James' development as a person and as a communicator.
I started watching YT photography channels about 8 yrs ago. During that time, your channel, James, is the only one I still watch. And, you’re the only photographer whose print I have actually purchased. I love your channel, your style, and your mantras. Keep doing you!
You are no snapshot photographer...you are one of the best. Its just that you have your own style and know how to do it. You dont take yourself too seriously and when Nigel Danson or Mads says James Popseys is a brilliant photographer, well i know who i will listen to...
I was just thinking that by now we can identify a "James Popseys" style of photography. It is interesting to have been able to follow its development through the years.
I have to disagree, Marlene, James is a snapshot photographer and the best I have ever seen. Everything about his style gives hope to the snapshooters that we may one day record the world the way James sees it but it hasn’t happened yet. I love his work and live in hope I might occasionally produce something as good!
We will have to agree to disagree ....i love his style esp when he goes out on the bike to take shots. Although there is hope for any of us if Hasselblad are giving free cameras to snapshooters.
Not a snapshot photographer but an artist who has thought very deeply about his work. Really appreciate your way of looking at photography and thinking about it. Also great commitment to talking of even epic trips in a casual but thoughtful manner that makes it feel accessible to many.
what I really love about your channel besides looking at great photography, is your way of looking at things, rather speaking metaphorically than literally. You ask interesting questions while not waffling around. This is not only interesting but also quite entertaining! Thanks for that 👏🏻
Man i love your style and approach to your photo's. Not a snapshot photographer at all. They show a constant slightly minimalist, slightly ethereal feeling but really grounded view of the world. Thanks for the overview of your mantra's as well.
Always admire your outlook on photography, James. Definitely resonates with me as your photos are always the ones I spend the longest time looking at and asking myself questions. I guess that means you’ve got them spot on and achieved your desired outcome.
I really enjoy this channel and James' output. It is such a calm, joyful, subtle, refective perspective on photography. Fairly unique. Also, the guy is a master of high-key in an increasingly low-key world. Literally and figuratively!
There is always a great sense of relief when watching your videos because you articulate so well the advantages simplicity over complexity. For me this addresses the frustration we all experience as photographers from time to time (when we inevitably contemplate selling everything!), puts the joy back into just seeing and shooting. Good stuff.
This video explains exactly how I feel about my own photography and why I relate and love so much your photography James. I call it point of view for simplicity. I love POV so that the viewer feels like they are there in the scene, behind my own eyes.
While I may not love how you edit the exposure and colors on your pictures I do love your choice of composition and it's something I've tried to learn from. Whenever I see one of your photos I can tell it's you and I think that's awesome.
Really enjoyed this. Helped me to consider what I'm looking for out of my photography, why I shoot what I do and don't shoot what I want to shoot. Your methods for looking for scenes to photograph are seemly so laid back and not stressful. I'm going to endeavor to be less worried about getting a perfect photo and try and enjoy just being out and capturing whats around me. Thank you.
I love everything about this channel. I love the novel way to consider ordinary things and the human-nature theme that threads through this work. But especially the humility and relatability. I find inspiration here to be more considerate in my own photography and think hard about what my photos are about -- but I also recognize that as a novice it's okay to like taking golden-hour photos that are really just about the light.
James’ aesthetic preferences are antithetical to just about every other photographer I watch on UA-cam; and, frankly, contrary to most of my own. And, bless him for it.
Another excellent video. I'm eagerly awaiting your detailed video on "how the human eye sees the world". I love your style of photography, no gimmicks, no B.S, pure photography at its core.
I really like your style/mantra. I am following you since your Micro Four Thirds days and am liking your dry sense of humour. Have two of your books and love the down to Earth perpectives and what you can do with normal focal lengths and your trained eye! Please keep doing such „concept“-videos. Greetings from Germany Christoph
Your explaination of your photographic intentions is brilliant and so helpful because it allows each of us to consider our own intentions with that clarity. I have always loved the existential view of a human being: head high and something like 40-50mm, and enjoy the extremes to either side when they best convey what it's "about". Thank you for a great video!
After actually watching the video; this has to be one of the most gamechanging pieces of advice i have ever heard, the one about shooting the way you would see the world that is. F6 suddenly starts to make so much sense. I can do nothing but thank you, this is going to change how I take pictures in an instance! Cheers.
I feel compelled to tell you that I love your photos! I love how your style is different from most of the other influencers I watch. Thank you for sharing an alternate perspective.
James, your videos always make me think. One of the very few UA-cam photography channels that does this for me. Your photo style as discussed here, and reflected in your new book, is a cogent, coherent visualization of the world. Actually taking normal-looking photos of "scenes one might see on a walk" sounds simple enough although in my experience, it's quite a challenge.
I totally get this James and it's thought provoking. I must say you do have a very distinct style and I find your images very pleasing to view. Making interesting images from ordinary situations is a real skill that you have pretty much mastered in my opinion much more so than many photographers we see on UA-cam. I've said it before too that you always nail exposures !
People that feel compelled to make negative comments should go watch noodle making videos or whatever they are interested in! Photography is an artistic endeavour and I both find your work interesting and appreciate the effort you go to to explain it. Thank you James.
I really like your channel because you make me think. Think about my photography, about why I do it and what I am trying to show with it. I often don't agree with you, or perhaps more accurately, I often find what you say about what you are trying to achieve with your photography is not in line with what I am trying to achieve. This gets me thinking about what I am trying to achieve. I often have difficulty articulating it to myself. You videos often motivate me to work on this, which I think helps my photography. For instants am I trying to show the world as one might see it on a walk, or am I trying to show people an unusual prospective on the world? I'm not sure, but it is a good question and one I probably would not be pondering if it weren't for your video.
Just started following you and wanted to say I like your photos. They look natural and makes me feel present in that location and for a second feeling like I’m there. Thank you
Thanks James. It's been fascinating over the years watching how how you've developed a style and a philosophy to your photography. Your style is one of the most distinctive out there and it's kind of bizarre that there are people who criticise because your images don't look the same as all the rest. I'm really looking forward to the book.
Brilliant. Wonderful and clear description of the choices you make to make your pictures. Few people can break down their aesthetic choices as clearly as you have. Thank you.
Cheeky tease of the Q3 43, picked mine up yesterday and will be interested to see what you think. Very much enjoy your (considered) style and looking forward to the pre-ordered book. Great to hear your thoughts as always, thanks.
You could call your style "Realistic and Relatable". Normal standing height with human-equivalent focal length at all times is indeed what we experience most of the time. Carefully considered snapshots might work too, but does not embody your intent so much. I too am unafraid of photography throughout the day, and I am not bothered by sleeping in and missing sunrise. Conveniently, there are two golden hours each day and the second one is much easier to deal with as it develops. Absolutely KNEW you were going to concentrate on 40-50, looking forward to seeing the next post. As a pro, you know the effects of aperture and can choose to NOT pursue the extremes if they don't suit your purpose. Really great post! Loved the bit about polar bears. Yeah, if you are trying to get an intimate photo of one with a normal focal length, might as well bathe in ketchup and serve yourself up as lunch. You can always call MPB and borrow a tele for such trips instead of owning them. Gives an opportunity for more variety too.
Never change James. Your channel is one of two that both my wife and I watch always. We never miss a video and have been watching for years. Where is that little assistant?
Consistency is everything: have always admired that in your style. Photos taken at multiple focal lengths can seem disjointed. I love how the presence of humans, shown typically by bright colours and straight lines, offsets nature in your work. Its a very pleasing style. Those who call such images "snaps" literally dont know what they are talking about.
I really relate to your technique and have been hand held for a number of years and as i get older more often at standing height, but not always and recently brought a prime . Very light set up and love it.
This video adds a lot of context and answers a lot of my questions on your work. I couldn't put my finger on what about your work I enjoyed. Thats not a negative as art should be thought provoking in my opinion, but the "like you would/could see it" is spot on. The art of gearing down vs gearing up. I do enjoy shooting with a telephoto as I enjoy the compression that is achieved and also using a long lens to avoid the distraction of a busy scene and find the unseen element. Its a long way of saying that I really like your work and this explanation added the relatability to what you produce. Looking forward to the next on location video particularly where you use the 5 min rule you spoke about the other week.
I always enjoyed your videos. It’s nice to hear your evolving approach to photography and the “why” behind how you shoot. This “thin glass” concept is a great way to summarize your philosophy. Looking forward to more videos digging into it.
Great video! Knew you'd be tempted by the Q3 43 (from having watched your Q3, and 40mm _obviously_ being the superior focal length). Looking forward to hear your thoughts on the Q3 43! You're my favorite non-gear gear channel. Cheers! ;)
I love your channel and photography, really thought provoking images and beautifully composed. Love your presentation style dry humour, fun and informative.
I like the way you creatively put yourself in a box. You seem to be steering a whole generation of photographers to the mundane with your charisma and charm. I have been with you way back in the MFT days and always look forward to another episode of the mundane with a comic twist. I'll stick to being outside the box enjoying creative photography with lenses ranging from 16mm to 840mm on Full frame, APS-C and MFT. I just love all aspects of the creative art and you intersect a small portion of that venn diagram. If I were to vote on my favourite photo of yours it would be the high key New York yellow busses. Nicely done.
A lot of your photos are the type of photos I love to take/make. Yours are obviously far better and I hope for my images to feel as engaging/beautiful one day - I appreciate the inspiration. I find myself in a beautiful location and shying away from the beauty and seeing the crumbling human aspects in the scene. And I think… yea that’s legit, James would call it human nature! 😏
This is such an interesting take. It seems in the landscape photographer world, there's a certain criteria of what makes a professional/good landscape photographer, namely, long shutter speeds, focus stacking, unique angles and focal lengths, etc. Which I do enjoy looking at and admire the skill that goes into that! However, I've often felt there is no place for those of us who like to capture landscapes moments in a subtle, naturally human way. I always felt like landscape photos had to be super epic and unique to be considered "good." Thanks for sharing your philosophy as it's very similar to mine and it's nice to know there's others out there who think that way too!
Yeah, I agree. I also dont like overedited lanscapes and especially dont touch the removal tool. Subtle colors of good light, accepting blown highlights of dark shadows when they dont matter or even reinforce the image. But a 40mm is the most natural as the eye sees it photo maker. I do use a variety of lenses, like a 24-105, 150-600, and 35mm. The 35mm f1.8 with image stabilizer and the 40mm 2.8 super compact lenses are the mainstays though for regular "as I saw it" images.
@@mikafoxx2717 Yes, the blown out highlights and shadows is something I had to learn. At first I thought the more detail, the better--especially since our eyes naturally have more dynamic range than our cameras do. But equalizing all tones ends up in an image with much detail but no focal point or "story." Since landscapes don't usually have a "subject," the light itself creates a "subject" for our eyes to focus on. Nice! It's good to have that variety available when you need it! I just got a 40mm and for that exact purpose of capturing a field a view that's similar to the human eye.
@@juliannedyck2054 See, the problem is that our screens only really show like 6 stops unless they're OLED set ludicrously bright, but then they get banding from only 8 bit. Until HDR is better supported you just can't cram 10+ stops of dynamic range from a good camera into 6 on a screen and have it look anything but flat. You need to have realistic contrast and that means clip something and get good light so you have good contrast on your subject within the range that looks natural. Same or even moreso with prints. You can only get black ink so dark and so much light on a page. Slide film used to be only like 5 stops but projected big with extra high contrast and it looked fantastic when done properly.
So funny because I think "snapshot" photographer would be a badge of honor considering how incredible some of your shots are if you only got them in a moment! I think you made a bold & honorable choice & the quality of the images you are still able to create so consistently speaks for itself! Thanks for sharing your journey with us even if some people are too dumb to appreciate it 🙈
Don't listen to the naysayers (and I don't believe you do listen)- your photos are the best. They're beautiful and considered. It was really interesting to hear that your focal length of choice is what it is. That explains a lot. I would love to use MPB but being on the other end of the world makes it more difficult. I would like to source a used telephoto!
I'm new to your channel but I like the way you approach this topic. When I was a kid, there was a really popular book called "The inner game of tennis" where they just talked about the subjective experiences and motivations that go into playing tennis. I think photography is similar. There is an inner game, where we use mantras and sometimes are aiming at achieving really complex effects, and it almost has nothing to do with gear or technique but rather has to do with what we're thinking as we approach the subject. (Sorry about this, I got a philosophy degree when I was young and I love talking.) New subscriber!
I know other people have said this, but I find you such an inspiration… a really thoughtful photographer without any pretension but willing to explain what you do and why you do it, and produce such amazing pictures. In particularly you’ve really shown me how negative space can make such a difference to the composition of the picture, and how the apparent “highlights” can be a major feature of a photo - shooting at all times of day is inspiring to think about how we view the world, and how we capture that experience in 2d space. Amazing and thank you.
I was in Longyearbyen just a couple of weeks ago and I love seeing what you were able capture. Same location, (mostly) the same weather, and honestly even a pretty similar camera setup for what it's worth (i'm on the A7iv with Contax Zeiss 35 2.8 and 50 1.4 primes) I'm happy with the photos I took, but I'm also impressed with how you are able to turn that little town into an absolute work of art. Major props to you!
Man… you’re just such a good bloke. An amazing photographer, how anyone can be negative to you, whether they like your photos or not… is beyond me. I look forward to your videos more than any other- and I do watch loads of other. Recently started subscribing to UA-cam because 1- I hate adverts and B- someone told me that you guys get paid more..? I hope that is true. All the best.
Refreshing to hear about your shooting style. I like it. And I like your photos. Looking forward to your video on focal lengths. I shoot 50mm and 35mm Summilux. Natural light only. Fun to read the light. Thanks for your videos.
Due to illness I sometimes need an electric wheelchair to get to town. Complete different perspective on people, sceneries, situations. Different things that will catch my eye. And a radically different contact to people. Some oversee me, some offer help, some are curious. (Especially when I suddenly stand up. A MIRACLE!!! 🙂) The photos that I take home are definitely different. So yes, eye level matters. A lot!
Ignore the voices James and stick to your mantra. It’s great to see a professional doing something different and your images are unique and do indeed tell a story.
I love this thought and approach. Its vastly different to my style, but i love it. I like the forced change of perspective from unusual perspectives and long focal lengths.
Love your work, James! Such a great video here. Thank you for sharing your mantras with us! I got a kick out of the 'Snapshot Photographer' comment. "...say all the smartphone users," I thought.
Leica Q3 43. As soon as I heard I was waiting for a video from you about it. It's good to see that you already have one. Cool! I wonder if it is a keeper. It makes a great pair with the X2D, and the Sony stay as the work tool.
I’m mixed on this. I really like your photos. But, I also really liked the photos you were taking 5-6 years ago up until the point where you started shooting more 35-50mm exclusively. You’ve definitely identified what you like though and that’s not an easy thing to do. I’m hoping to get your new book to go along with your others as a Christmas present from my much better half. Love the channel, it’s been great seeing your journey. I do miss the old guy who used to leave a comment on every video with a 🐑
James ,Once again brilliant! Any time I can get a peak into your brain to get a piece of the Popsys Process makes me a better photographer! Can’t wait for the book ! Cheers !!
This video made me stop and think more than any of the others that you’ve made of late. Your explanation that you wanted people to be able to just happen upon the place in the photo and see it for themselves was really interesting .
Your simple photography paradigm must be very liberating for your creativity. The choice of background music reminds me of being in an slow elevator in a very tall building. Eventually you forget what you are doing there in the first place. Great channel.
I'm so on board with your photography philosophy. Your images stand out from the golden hour crowd, and often make me wonder about the location which draws me to an image even more. They're clean. They're light. They're life. I'd love a copy of your book, but I'm all poor. One day I'll get something 😅 I hope you've kept a telephoto lens for Antarctica next year!
Hi James, I've been watching your videos for a while now and I'm really enjoying the content! As life has gotten more busy though, I find myself listening to your videos rather than watching them a lot. I really like the way you think about photography and the ideas you explain in your videos but a lot of the time I just don't have the time or space to watch a video. Have you ever thought about doing a podcast where you discuss your ideas and Philosophy about photography and how you feel about it? Perhaps with other photographers who might have very different ideas?
Your approach to photography is much the same as mine. It’s an approach that is in short supply on YT, so I found this quite refreshing. The one area where I change things up a bit is when photographing people or animals or plants whose plane of existence is lower than mine…e.g. children. For those photos I take a knee. I do that an awful lot when photographing at our church. I guess it’s a similar approach to stand-up photography, in that I’m seeking to photograph subjects squarely up front.
Great video. I'm a very casual photographer (mostly on holiday etc) and wouldn't say I have my own style yet. Your videos get me thinking about that and my approach to taking pictures though, which I like.
I love the take on thin glass. I can see where you're coming from with trying to get that natural documentary look as a style choice. Style is more than a preset or colour grade. ✨ For me, my issue is with flat compositions. I find it's easier to end up shooting flat with longer lenses. It's possible to get some dynamism with any lens of course, I just find I'm less likely to get weird and work the scene as much with a mega lens. 50+ makes me a bit lazy. The focal length that really forces me out of that comfortable flat composition style is 28mm. Due to it being a bit annoyingly wide that it feels unnatural to my personal perspective, I end up looking for a more ideal director's perspective than my eyeline. Means I'm using the LCD more than the EVF, but so it goes. That's my personal style anyway. 😂
A very interesting and refreshing viewpoint. If You Tube is to be believed it ought to result in boring pictures. But yours are fantastic. I guess a mixture of what you choose to photograph and then how you edit them. I’m looking forward to seeing your new book
Brilliant. Ive done exactly the same thing recently and sold my tele and zoom lenses. In fact i find myself only using the Ricoh GRiiiX these days. Anyway, loving the work as always, and I cant wait to get the new book!
I really love your photos James! The whole process you go through to get those shots is what I identify with the most. And also the way you edit them, to me, it seems the most correct and natural. I like the idea of shooting at any time of day and in any weather conditions, that resonates with me as well. But selling the telephoto lenses... hum... big mistake! 🤔
So with you on that 'thin glass' philosophy : having mainly used Leica Ms since 1984, my brain now really struggles with anything outside the 35 - 50mm range. If I try walking around with a 24-70 and 70-200 zoom kit, I am searching wide, near and far, so it is almost impossible to come home with anything other than a jumble of snapshots.
After I saw this video, I looked at my metadata in Lightroom and my favorite focal length is around 45 mm. Even though I do a lot of landscape photography and street shooting. My favorite lens is a 24 - 90 and I tend to keep it around 40 to 45 mm. I do like my telephoto lenses, especially for trips to Iceland and Greenland when you can get compression and angles against an iceberg that presents a beautiful pattern to the viewer, but you’re right. I also had an opportunity to pick up the new Q3 with a 43 mm lens and I’m using that a lot more than I use the Q3 with 28 mm. In fact, I just sold mine to MPB your sponsor. But the most important lesson is something that I have often thought about is “take a picture about something not of something”. Great advice.
Absolutely right James, polar bear at 400mm means you get to eat lunch. Polar bear at 50mm means you are lunch
Best lens for photographing a polar bear therefore is 80mm, then you get the shot of him enjoying his lunch 😂
EXACTLY what I thought!
I'm looking forward to next year's "I'm buying back all my telephoto lenses" video. 😉
Course we are!
More like next week’s 😜
lol I was gonna say, he's a bit fickle when it comes to his love for any lens
Nah, doesn't sound like as if just a mood-of-the-day. It sounds well founded and consistent to his style and how he sees the world around him.
Same reason why he avoids these gimmicky ultra-wide-angle cliché perspectives, the stuff which beginners like so much when they just bought their first ultra wide angle zoom 😉
The “I don’t need telephoto lenses “ video will disappear into the archives with the “ I don’t see the point in selling presets and I’ll never do it” video.
I love how you can tell a photo is from James when you see it's 2/3 white
It's better than all those landscape foto's in wich something of interest is in the foreground and all things in the shade show miraculus details. Boring.... I do not always like the hyper lifting of all the shadows in James's pictures, but they in general beat 90% of what I see online.
@@PeterBrand-hw7wu I didn't say I don't like it, his style is awesome, he just sticks to it very much
I thought James was 100% white… 🥁
About a Month. It took me about a month to watch this channel. From the very first video to today. This channel is a gem for me. Thanks for the inspiration, James
It took me two months. I just skipped editing and collage old videos because they're not for me. I couldn't agree more. It's also cool to see James' development as a person and as a communicator.
That’s sick that you watched them all. I gotta do the same
I started watching YT photography channels about 8 yrs ago. During that time, your channel, James, is the only one I still watch. And, you’re the only photographer whose print I have actually purchased. I love your channel, your style, and your mantras. Keep doing you!
You are no snapshot photographer...you are one of the best. Its just that you have your own style and know how to do it. You dont take yourself too seriously and when Nigel Danson or Mads says James Popseys is a brilliant photographer, well i know who i will listen to...
I was just thinking that by now we can identify a "James Popseys" style of photography. It is interesting to have been able to follow its development through the years.
I have to disagree, Marlene, James is a snapshot photographer and the best I have ever seen. Everything about his style gives hope to the snapshooters that we may one day record the world the way James sees it but it hasn’t happened yet. I love his work and live in hope I might occasionally produce something as good!
We will have to agree to disagree ....i love his style esp when he goes out on the bike to take shots. Although there is hope for any of us if Hasselblad are giving free cameras to snapshooters.
@@marlenehazlehurst8666😂
yeah he is probably my favourite photographer right now. Every photo shows high level of intentionality
Not a snapshot photographer but an artist who has thought very deeply about his work. Really appreciate your way of looking at photography and thinking about it. Also great commitment to talking of even epic trips in a casual but thoughtful manner that makes it feel accessible to many.
Very much looking forward to next week's video. You were definitely the first person I thought of when I saw Leicas announcement for the Q3 43.
what I really love about your channel besides looking at great photography, is your way of looking at things, rather speaking metaphorically than literally. You ask interesting questions while not waffling around. This is not only interesting but also quite entertaining! Thanks for that 👏🏻
Man i love your style and approach to your photo's. Not a snapshot photographer at all. They show a constant slightly minimalist, slightly ethereal feeling but really grounded view of the world. Thanks for the overview of your mantra's as well.
I love your style. Deceptively simple but I am drawn in time and again by the care you take with the seemingly ordinary.
I really appreciate your take on photography.
Always admire your outlook on photography, James. Definitely resonates with me as your photos are always the ones I spend the longest time looking at and asking myself questions. I guess that means you’ve got them spot on and achieved your desired outcome.
I really enjoy this channel and James' output. It is such a calm, joyful, subtle, refective perspective on photography. Fairly unique.
Also, the guy is a master of high-key in an increasingly low-key world. Literally and figuratively!
There is always a great sense of relief when watching your videos because you articulate so well the advantages simplicity over complexity. For me this addresses the frustration we all experience as photographers from time to time (when we inevitably contemplate selling everything!), puts the joy back into just seeing and shooting. Good stuff.
This video explains exactly how I feel about my own photography and why I relate and love so much your photography James.
I call it point of view for simplicity. I love POV so that the viewer feels like they are there in the scene, behind my own eyes.
While I may not love how you edit the exposure and colors on your pictures I do love your choice of composition and it's something I've tried to learn from. Whenever I see one of your photos I can tell it's you and I think that's awesome.
Really enjoyed this. Helped me to consider what I'm looking for out of my photography, why I shoot what I do and don't shoot what I want to shoot. Your methods for looking for scenes to photograph are seemly so laid back and not stressful. I'm going to endeavor to be less worried about getting a perfect photo and try and enjoy just being out and capturing whats around me. Thank you.
I love everything about this channel. I love the novel way to consider ordinary things and the human-nature theme that threads through this work. But especially the humility and relatability. I find inspiration here to be more considerate in my own photography and think hard about what my photos are about -- but I also recognize that as a novice it's okay to like taking golden-hour photos that are really just about the light.
Thanks!
James’ aesthetic preferences are antithetical to just about every other photographer I watch on UA-cam; and, frankly, contrary to most of my own. And, bless him for it.
I find your "snapshot photography" deeply inspiring.
Another excellent video. I'm eagerly awaiting your detailed video on "how the human eye sees the world". I love your style of photography, no gimmicks, no B.S, pure photography at its core.
I really like your style/mantra. I am following you since your Micro Four Thirds days and am liking your dry sense of humour. Have two of your books and love the down to Earth perpectives and what you can do with normal focal lengths and your trained eye!
Please keep doing such „concept“-videos.
Greetings from Germany
Christoph
Your explaination of your photographic intentions is brilliant and so helpful because it allows each of us to consider our own intentions with that clarity. I have always loved the existential view of a human being: head high and something like 40-50mm, and enjoy the extremes to either side when they best convey what it's "about". Thank you for a great video!
I like your work, and I like listening to you talk, especially how you alternate between footage of yourself and showing photos
It is a great day; a new james popsys video was released.
After actually watching the video; this has to be one of the most gamechanging pieces of advice i have ever heard, the one about shooting the way you would see the world that is. F6 suddenly starts to make so much sense. I can do nothing but thank you, this is going to change how I take pictures in an instance! Cheers.
I feel compelled to tell you that I love your photos! I love how your style is different from most of the other influencers I watch. Thank you for sharing an alternate perspective.
James, your videos always make me think. One of the very few UA-cam photography channels that does this for me. Your photo style as discussed here, and reflected in your new book, is a cogent, coherent visualization of the world. Actually taking normal-looking photos of "scenes one might see on a walk" sounds simple enough although in my experience, it's quite a challenge.
I totally get this James and it's thought provoking. I must say you do have a very distinct style and I find your images very pleasing to view. Making interesting images from ordinary situations is a real skill that you have pretty much mastered in my opinion much more so than many photographers we see on UA-cam. I've said it before too that you always nail exposures !
People that feel compelled to make negative comments should go watch noodle making videos or whatever they are interested in! Photography is an artistic endeavour and I both find your work interesting and appreciate the effort you go to to explain it. Thank you James.
Is that a dig at culinary channels? There's quite a lot of creativity involved there as well. 😄
Surely negative comments about negative comments are even less worthwhile
You've showed that school bus picture a number of times and every time I see it I think it's an oil painting. So so good.
I really like your channel because you make me think. Think about my photography, about why I do it and what I am trying to show with it. I often don't agree with you, or perhaps more accurately, I often find what you say about what you are trying to achieve with your photography is not in line with what I am trying to achieve. This gets me thinking about what I am trying to achieve. I often have difficulty articulating it to myself. You videos often motivate me to work on this, which I think helps my photography. For instants am I trying to show the world as one might see it on a walk, or am I trying to show people an unusual prospective on the world? I'm not sure, but it is a good question and one I probably would not be pondering if it weren't for your video.
Just started following you and wanted to say I like your photos. They look natural and makes me feel present in that location and for a second feeling like I’m there. Thank you
Thanks James. It's been fascinating over the years watching how how you've developed a style and a philosophy to your photography. Your style is one of the most distinctive out there and it's kind of bizarre that there are people who criticise because your images don't look the same as all the rest. I'm really looking forward to the book.
Book and print ordered. Love the way you walk through your approach.
Brilliant. Wonderful and clear description of the choices you make to make your pictures. Few people can break down their aesthetic choices as clearly as you have. Thank you.
I love your content, you have inspired me so much in my photography journey, I just wanted to thank you
Cheeky tease of the Q3 43, picked mine up yesterday and will be interested to see what you think. Very much enjoy your (considered) style and looking forward to the pre-ordered book. Great to hear your thoughts as always, thanks.
Probably one of the best meaningful & thought provoking videos (to me ) on photography I have seen in a while .. thank you
You could call your style "Realistic and Relatable". Normal standing height with human-equivalent focal length at all times is indeed what we experience most of the time. Carefully considered snapshots might work too, but does not embody your intent so much. I too am unafraid of photography throughout the day, and I am not bothered by sleeping in and missing sunrise. Conveniently, there are two golden hours each day and the second one is much easier to deal with as it develops. Absolutely KNEW you were going to concentrate on 40-50, looking forward to seeing the next post. As a pro, you know the effects of aperture and can choose to NOT pursue the extremes if they don't suit your purpose. Really great post!
Loved the bit about polar bears. Yeah, if you are trying to get an intimate photo of one with a normal focal length, might as well bathe in ketchup and serve yourself up as lunch. You can always call MPB and borrow a tele for such trips instead of owning them. Gives an opportunity for more variety too.
Never change James. Your channel is one of two that both my wife and I watch always. We never miss a video and have been watching for years. Where is that little assistant?
Man, your shot at 5:18 is so so so good. The colors and shadows and the simplicity reminding me of an Edward Hopper drawing, love it! 😍
Consistency is everything: have always admired that in your style. Photos taken at multiple focal lengths can seem disjointed. I love how the presence of humans, shown typically by bright colours and straight lines, offsets nature in your work. Its a very pleasing style. Those who call such images "snaps" literally dont know what they are talking about.
I really relate to your technique and have been hand held for a number of years and as i get older more often at standing height, but not always and recently brought a prime . Very light set up and love it.
Love your photos. And I also like the subtle humour in your narration. ❤
This video adds a lot of context and answers a lot of my questions on your work. I couldn't put my finger on what about your work I enjoyed. Thats not a negative as art should be thought provoking in my opinion, but the "like you would/could see it" is spot on. The art of gearing down vs gearing up. I do enjoy shooting with a telephoto as I enjoy the compression that is achieved and also using a long lens to avoid the distraction of a busy scene and find the unseen element.
Its a long way of saying that I really like your work and this explanation added the relatability to what you produce. Looking forward to the next on location video particularly where you use the 5 min rule you spoke about the other week.
I always enjoyed your videos. It’s nice to hear your evolving approach to photography and the “why” behind how you shoot. This “thin glass” concept is a great way to summarize your philosophy. Looking forward to more videos digging into it.
Your photos are amazing, and honestly speaking you have taught me so many valuable skills over the years.
Great video! Knew you'd be tempted by the Q3 43 (from having watched your Q3, and 40mm _obviously_ being the superior focal length). Looking forward to hear your thoughts on the Q3 43! You're my favorite non-gear gear channel. Cheers! ;)
I love your channel and photography, really thought provoking images and beautifully composed. Love your presentation style dry humour, fun and informative.
I like the way you creatively put yourself in a box.
You seem to be steering a whole generation of photographers to the mundane with your charisma and charm.
I have been with you way back in the MFT days and always look forward to another episode of the mundane with a comic twist.
I'll stick to being outside the box enjoying creative photography with lenses ranging from 16mm to 840mm on Full frame, APS-C and MFT. I just love all aspects of the creative art and you intersect a small portion of that venn diagram.
If I were to vote on my favourite photo of yours it would be the high key New York yellow busses. Nicely done.
A lot of your photos are the type of photos I love to take/make. Yours are obviously far better and I hope for my images to feel as engaging/beautiful one day - I appreciate the inspiration. I find myself in a beautiful location and shying away from the beauty and seeing the crumbling human aspects in the scene. And I think… yea that’s legit, James would call it human nature! 😏
This video summarises exactly why you are the only photography UA-camr who I never unsubscribed.
This is such an interesting take.
It seems in the landscape photographer world, there's a certain criteria of what makes a professional/good landscape photographer, namely, long shutter speeds, focus stacking, unique angles and focal lengths, etc. Which I do enjoy looking at and admire the skill that goes into that!
However, I've often felt there is no place for those of us who like to capture landscapes moments in a subtle, naturally human way. I always felt like landscape photos had to be super epic and unique to be considered "good."
Thanks for sharing your philosophy as it's very similar to mine and it's nice to know there's others out there who think that way too!
Yeah, I agree. I also dont like overedited lanscapes and especially dont touch the removal tool. Subtle colors of good light, accepting blown highlights of dark shadows when they dont matter or even reinforce the image. But a 40mm is the most natural as the eye sees it photo maker. I do use a variety of lenses, like a 24-105, 150-600, and 35mm. The 35mm f1.8 with image stabilizer and the 40mm 2.8 super compact lenses are the mainstays though for regular "as I saw it" images.
@@mikafoxx2717 Yes, the blown out highlights and shadows is something I had to learn. At first I thought the more detail, the better--especially since our eyes naturally have more dynamic range than our cameras do. But equalizing all tones ends up in an image with much detail but no focal point or "story." Since landscapes don't usually have a "subject," the light itself creates a "subject" for our eyes to focus on.
Nice! It's good to have that variety available when you need it! I just got a 40mm and for that exact purpose of capturing a field a view that's similar to the human eye.
@@juliannedyck2054 See, the problem is that our screens only really show like 6 stops unless they're OLED set ludicrously bright, but then they get banding from only 8 bit. Until HDR is better supported you just can't cram 10+ stops of dynamic range from a good camera into 6 on a screen and have it look anything but flat. You need to have realistic contrast and that means clip something and get good light so you have good contrast on your subject within the range that looks natural. Same or even moreso with prints. You can only get black ink so dark and so much light on a page. Slide film used to be only like 5 stops but projected big with extra high contrast and it looked fantastic when done properly.
So funny because I think "snapshot" photographer would be a badge of honor considering how incredible some of your shots are if you only got them in a moment! I think you made a bold & honorable choice & the quality of the images you are still able to create so consistently speaks for itself! Thanks for sharing your journey with us even if some people are too dumb to appreciate it 🙈
Great vid-as usual James. Love your thoughtfulness about your art, and your art. Looking forward to getting my copy of Human Nature.
James, you are class act! Love your style and beautifully simple images. Thanks for posting.
Don't listen to the naysayers (and I don't believe you do listen)- your photos are the best. They're beautiful and considered. It was really interesting to hear that your focal length of choice is what it is. That explains a lot. I would love to use MPB but being on the other end of the world makes it more difficult. I would like to source a used telephoto!
I'm new to your channel but I like the way you approach this topic. When I was a kid, there was a really popular book called "The inner game of tennis" where they just talked about the subjective experiences and motivations that go into playing tennis. I think photography is similar. There is an inner game, where we use mantras and sometimes are aiming at achieving really complex effects, and it almost has nothing to do with gear or technique but rather has to do with what we're thinking as we approach the subject. (Sorry about this, I got a philosophy degree when I was young and I love talking.) New subscriber!
I know other people have said this, but I find you such an inspiration… a really thoughtful photographer without any pretension but willing to explain what you do and why you do it, and produce such amazing pictures. In particularly you’ve really shown me how negative space can make such a difference to the composition of the picture, and how the apparent “highlights” can be a major feature of a photo - shooting at all times of day is inspiring to think about how we view the world, and how we capture that experience in 2d space. Amazing and thank you.
I was in Longyearbyen just a couple of weeks ago and I love seeing what you were able capture. Same location, (mostly) the same weather, and honestly even a pretty similar camera setup for what it's worth (i'm on the A7iv with Contax Zeiss 35 2.8 and 50 1.4 primes)
I'm happy with the photos I took, but I'm also impressed with how you are able to turn that little town into an absolute work of art. Major props to you!
Super interesting video brother. Always a pleasure to get a deeper glimpse into the way you see the world!
Man… you’re just such a good bloke. An amazing photographer, how anyone can be negative to you, whether they like your photos or not… is beyond me. I look forward to your videos more than any other- and I do watch loads of other. Recently started subscribing to UA-cam because 1- I hate adverts and B- someone told me that you guys get paid more..? I hope that is true. All the best.
Refreshing to hear about your shooting style. I like it. And I like your photos. Looking forward to your video on focal lengths. I shoot 50mm and 35mm Summilux. Natural light only. Fun to read the light. Thanks for your videos.
Due to illness I sometimes need an electric wheelchair to get to town. Complete different perspective on people, sceneries, situations. Different things that will catch my eye. And a radically different contact to people. Some oversee me, some offer help, some are curious. (Especially when I suddenly stand up. A MIRACLE!!! 🙂)
The photos that I take home are definitely different. So yes, eye level matters. A lot!
11:14 - what ever photographer you are, you are inspiration for all of us in all type of photography, James!! Love your work!
Huge fan of your photography style 👍🏻 thanks for sharing your thought process
Ignore the voices James and stick to your mantra. It’s great to see a professional doing something different and your images are unique and do indeed tell a story.
I like your photos. I like the way you edit. And I first heard about MPB from you and it's been very useful 😀 Thanks James
You and Roman Fox really inspire me. Thank you!
I love this thought and approach. Its vastly different to my style, but i love it. I like the forced change of perspective from unusual perspectives and long focal lengths.
Love your work, James! Such a great video here. Thank you for sharing your mantras with us! I got a kick out of the 'Snapshot Photographer' comment. "...say all the smartphone users," I thought.
Leica Q3 43. As soon as I heard I was waiting for a video from you about it. It's good to see that you already have one. Cool!
I wonder if it is a keeper. It makes a great pair with the X2D, and the Sony stay as the work tool.
I’m mixed on this. I really like your photos. But, I also really liked the photos you were taking 5-6 years ago up until the point where you started shooting more 35-50mm exclusively. You’ve definitely identified what you like though and that’s not an easy thing to do. I’m hoping to get your new book to go along with your others as a Christmas present from my much better half. Love the channel, it’s been great seeing your journey. I do miss the old guy who used to leave a comment on every video with a 🐑
Love your content and your images James, thank you.
James ,Once again brilliant! Any time I can get a peak into your brain to get a piece of the Popsys Process makes me a better photographer! Can’t wait for the book ! Cheers !!
This video made me stop and think more than any of the others that you’ve made of late.
Your explanation that you wanted people to be able to just happen upon the place in the photo and see it for themselves was really interesting .
Your simple photography paradigm must be very liberating for your creativity. The choice of background music reminds me of being in an slow elevator in a very tall building. Eventually you forget what you are doing there in the first place. Great channel.
I'm so on board with your photography philosophy. Your images stand out from the golden hour crowd, and often make me wonder about the location which draws me to an image even more. They're clean. They're light. They're life.
I'd love a copy of your book, but I'm all poor. One day I'll get something 😅
I hope you've kept a telephoto lens for Antarctica next year!
It was your photograph of the orange pylon legs that completely won me over. It's part of the scaffolding in my shonky little heart, that one.
Hi James,
I've been watching your videos for a while now and I'm really enjoying the content! As life has gotten more busy though, I find myself listening to your videos rather than watching them a lot. I really like the way you think about photography and the ideas you explain in your videos but a lot of the time I just don't have the time or space to watch a video. Have you ever thought about doing a podcast where you discuss your ideas and Philosophy about photography and how you feel about it? Perhaps with other photographers who might have very different ideas?
I think James is the grand master of them all in relation to composition and framing every shot is like mm perfect ! Unreal standard ❤
Your approach to photography is much the same as mine. It’s an approach that is in short supply on YT, so I found this quite refreshing. The one area where I change things up a bit is when photographing people or animals or plants whose plane of existence is lower than mine…e.g. children. For those photos I take a knee. I do that an awful lot when photographing at our church. I guess it’s a similar approach to stand-up photography, in that I’m seeking to photograph subjects squarely up front.
Great video. I'm a very casual photographer (mostly on holiday etc) and wouldn't say I have my own style yet. Your videos get me thinking about that and my approach to taking pictures though, which I like.
Love your work! Thanks for sharing.
Just ordered my copy!!! Can’t wait! ❤️
I love the take on thin glass. I can see where you're coming from with trying to get that natural documentary look as a style choice. Style is more than a preset or colour grade. ✨
For me, my issue is with flat compositions. I find it's easier to end up shooting flat with longer lenses. It's possible to get some dynamism with any lens of course, I just find I'm less likely to get weird and work the scene as much with a mega lens. 50+ makes me a bit lazy.
The focal length that really forces me out of that comfortable flat composition style is 28mm. Due to it being a bit annoyingly wide that it feels unnatural to my personal perspective, I end up looking for a more ideal director's perspective than my eyeline. Means I'm using the LCD more than the EVF, but so it goes. That's my personal style anyway. 😂
Love the perspective James.
A very interesting and refreshing viewpoint. If You Tube is to be believed it ought to result in boring pictures. But yours are fantastic. I guess a mixture of what you choose to photograph and then how you edit them.
I’m looking forward to seeing your new book
Brilliant. Ive done exactly the same thing recently and sold my tele and zoom lenses. In fact i find myself only using the Ricoh GRiiiX these days.
Anyway, loving the work as always, and I cant wait to get the new book!
As usual, great video and the pictures are absolutely stunning.
I really love your photos James! The whole process you go through to get those shots is what I identify with the most. And also the way you edit them, to me, it seems the most correct and natural. I like the idea of shooting at any time of day and in any weather conditions, that resonates with me as well. But selling the telephoto lenses... hum... big mistake! 🤔
Great video, I love your style of photography.
So with you on that 'thin glass' philosophy : having mainly used Leica Ms since 1984, my brain now really struggles with anything outside the 35 - 50mm range. If I try walking around with a 24-70 and 70-200 zoom kit, I am searching wide, near and far, so it is almost impossible to come home with anything other than a jumble of snapshots.
This idea is beautiful; thank you
I justlove your style of photography, man.
Oh that book looks nice (green hard cover?!), I'm excited to get one in the mail!!!! And as a dedicated nifty fifty user, thanks for the validation!
Thanks for your video and appreciate your style and mantras. Very recognizable for me. Subscribed!
After I saw this video, I looked at my metadata in Lightroom and my favorite focal length is around 45 mm. Even though I do a lot of landscape photography and street shooting. My favorite lens is a 24 - 90 and I tend to keep it around 40 to 45 mm. I do like my telephoto lenses, especially for trips to Iceland and Greenland when you can get compression and angles against an iceberg that presents a beautiful pattern to the viewer, but you’re right. I also had an opportunity to pick up the new Q3 with a 43 mm lens and I’m using that a lot more than I use the Q3 with 28 mm. In fact, I just sold mine to MPB your sponsor. But the most important lesson is something that I have often thought about is “take a picture about something not of something”. Great advice.
My knees are really glad to hear about shooting at head height 😅. So many photographers say you need to get down low and I really struggle.