Well spoken. I recently grabbed my old APS-C DSLR and went outside to shoot with it. It was a rewarding experience, because it was not about gear and a presumably better technical image, but about the subjects of my interest and the joy of capturing them.
Too much sense, man. You make TOO MUCH SENSE and my head is going to explode now... So great to hear somebody call it as it is and not fall for the consumerism economy. Well done, Adam! reminding us how to keep our priorities straight. 🙏
Landscape is one niche where you can get by without latest equipment. Nothing to autofocus, no need for fast bursts or precapture, no need for silent shutter, each session isn’t 5k shots, no supertelephotos needed, low light can be compensated by stacking or long shutter speeds etc. It is important to remember that this is not true for many other types of photography, where the latest cameras not only make life easier but also in many ways even enable it. As sports photographer in often low light environments, mirrorless has been lifesaver. I welcome each advancement in AF, shutter speed, stabilization, faster lenses, and so on. Loved the video anyways! Refreshing to see this vs dozen sponsored gear ads/content.
Absolutely. It’s important to have the right tool for the job. Although, as time moves on, those upgrade gains become increasingly marginal. Really appreciate your time and would definitely be needing a faster lens if I was shooting some sports….which I may be doing soon!!
@ I agree. I don’t really know what else even sports shooters need beyond A9iii/R1/R5mk2/Z9 have today. No issues with rolling shutter, AF is awesome, precapture exists, insane burst speeds etc. On the lenses, we need to really invent something new to squeeze any more low light capabilities from them. Beyond incremental advances, we need design/material breakthru there. Good luck shooting sports! It is so much fun, enjoy!
It is good to upgrade even for landscape, for example only olympus and lumix i think they have star autofocus, when i had dslr i was putting the lens blindly on infinity or struggling to guess when a star is the smallest in liveview
Adam My cameras are all Pentax DSLR cameras I bought my first Pentax DSLR in 2005 a Pentax *istDL 6 megapixel CCD Sony sensor camera I still use it today as I've never had any problems with the camera and it uses AA batteries. In 2006 I bought my son a Pentax K100D another 6 megapixel camera. In 2015 I upgraded to a Pentax K50 a 16 megapixel weather sealed camera. In 2018 I have my son the Pentax K50 and I upgraded to a Pentax K70 a 24 megapixel camera with a flip screen. In 2020 my Pentax K70 had Apature block failure so I bought a used Pentax K3-11 that does not have Apature block problems and is Pentax top ASP-C camera to replace the K70. My son sent the K70 camera to a repair facility in Oregon that specializes in Pentax Apature block repair and he had the camera fixed for $100.00 and it works fine now Nobody cares what camera you shot the pictures on they only care about the end results and a DSLR camera for most applications is just as good as a mirrorless camera in taking pictures
Pentax is a good choice and it's funny how many times people have told us they are a dead brand. My first was a K-r, and then I picked up a K-30 (firmware upgrade made it a K-50 and added PLM lens support). I have my eye on a K-S2, which I think is about as much DSLR as I'll ever need. They have such lovely lenses too. Love the handling, the RAW image quality and those special Pentax colours. The Pentax philosophy has always been to deliver features that matter, coupled with a polished user experience. Buttons, control wheels all the in right place, super comfortable grips, the easiest lens change experience in any system ever, and the cleanest and most intuitive menus. IBIS since 2006! Weather sealing in entry level bodies! 100% viewfinder coverage! I could go on...
Wise words Adam. I'm still using my 5D M4 and 5d SR, and have no reason or inclination to change these. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. Kind regards, Charles.
Have been following you since the beginning and you are my inspiration to KISS it, I think too many photogs want to emulate the pros they see on u tube who promote the latest and greatest gear. Have been very happy with my obsolete Canon 5D MKll/ 7DMKll combo and older EF lenses. Keep up the inspiring work !
I been watching camera videos now for 5 years religiously, and today is the first time your channel has ever came up on my feed, and I am glad this video is made just for me. As I have g.s.s. Thanks
Erm, I do love a new bit of gear! But... I agree with spending the money on boots, weather gear and a van. I think the van has turned out to be one of my best purchases, even with its initial problems. I wont mention the new Voigtlander lens no no. Excellent video! And who's this chap popping up at the end 😂 One of the best days of this year!
I always appreciate guys like you who squeeze the most out of their gear. I think its really ridiculous that I spent soo much on new cameras for photography only to edit them to look more like "film" and the older DSLRs have horrible ibis/lenses/focus that add all the "grit" that we are all trying to replicate and add back into our photos. For video, I cant disagree enough, the newer technology makes it almost brainless to operate and allows me to focus more on composition and lighting.
Totally agree with you. The best investment is not to buy a new camera but to know deep every function of the camera you own. I've a Canon 6d mk2, five years together and still it is a solid companion of my photography journey. If I've some extra money I prefer to buy another good quality lens (used of course, from a secure shop that offer two years of warranty) to experiment a different view and expand my creativity. Thanks Adam !
Great commentary. As a hobbyist I have always used entry level camera bodies because that is what I could afford. I did invest in better quality lenses, all used as that is what I could afford. I recently bumped into another photographer in my area that has all the latest gear. He was so busy telling me how great his gear was that he missed an amazing sunset. We have since compared some prints from a photo session we were both at and he admitted his did not have the same outcome as mine and could not understand it. I suggested he spend time learning his craft rather than buying more gear. Apparently I offended him as he won't speak with me anymore. One of the reasons your channel is so precious is due the fact you don't push gear. Cheers!!!
It was going well up to the moment you shared your views on the DJI Action 4. It’s been one of the best videos cams I’ve owned, more reliable than the Go Pro! On another note, changing to mirrorless from the 5D3 to my R6 has been a revelation and changed the way I shoot ie no tripod and 99% handheld. Your style and preference to shoot photography is key. Great content Adam
Yeah, i recall you saying you'd given up the tripod. It's a good point though and it's definitely about having the right tool for the job. Unless its the Action 4.....that'll never be right!!🤣
As a landscape photographer, it's brain dead simple: go on MPB or KEH, buy a 5DsR or Z7 for about USD1,000 or less, add the two lenses you need and be done with it.
Very refreshing and the reason I’m still subscribed. I recently unsubscribe to a number of other TH-cam photography channels as they all started using ‘gifted’ Hasselblad cameras. Totally out of touch with reality and whores to the advertising budget of DJI.
Ι've also started unsubscribing from YT channels that are mostly about gear. Getting free stuff and money by trying to empty my wallet is not my cup of tea! For landscapes I'm pretty happy with my 8-12 year old dslrs and the ultra cheap lens combo I managed to collect from people that were convinced they needed the upgrade. Fair play and good for them. And lucky me!
As a purely hobbyist (not even gonna call myself a photographer just a dude with a decent camera), the main reason to upgrade was size & weight plus finding reasonably priced good quality lenses. I shot D90 / 18-200 for long enough but found I like re-discovering photos I took on old trips in Lightroom and on a newer 4k monitor they didn't look good at all. Eventually went to a D850, but for travel I was stuck with a 35mm as the zoom ranges for full frame were either weird or expensive or heavy (850+24-70 weighs almost 2Kg) or not-great quality. Now I can take a Z7ii on holiday with 14-30 plus 24-70 f/4 and come back with amazingly sharp photos using two lenses that weigh significantly less the one F-Mount one.
Sticking with my 6D MKII, (using a 70-200L lens for almost everything). Don't see any need for a change/upgrade, and never taken in by any review/sales hype. P.S. Like the Strat at 4.24.
This is why I love watching Adam, he still uses a (Canon) DSLR while other photography TH-cam channel folk have moved to mirrorless, expensive cameras, expensive lenses, which is fine but we can't all afford them or even have them gifted to us. Well said Adam and a great philosophy for life!
All makes sense, I have a Canon 6D2 and it still does the job. I don't think I need a newer Camera unless the prices come down somewhat. Love your Work !
Im thinking of down grading my camera after up grading it because all the extra resolution and updated raw file types means I now need to upgrade my computer and my software (photoshop) which is not very cost effective.
I love your thinking and absolutely agree with you. The way I put it, if someone has a few thousand to spend and wants to take better photos, what should they do? 1) buy new gear, or 2) spend it on trips to great locations (not necessarily at the other side of the world). For the fast majority of people, I'm convinced it's hands down option 2. Even those who have really bad gear that limits them (it *is* possible, though not common) could upgrade to not-the-latest version of a good camera and a decent lens, and have some left to travel. Beyond the pictures they come back with, the experience's memories would last forever, while the "having a new fancy camera" feeling will be quickly forgotten
I agree with your sentiments! Photography is more important than cameras ….. following on from your comments about printing, I have really enjoyed pulling together photo books….. it is a project that requires focus and enables us to present a larger body of work together. The per image cost of printing a photo book is very reasonable. I’m currently working to build a couple of bodies of work that I intend to print via books … may take another year or so, but will be well worth it
Since I started printing I find im more of a perfectionist. My mindset is now that every landscape picture I take has to be potentially good enough to print and put on my wall. No more quick snaps, lots more standing around and obsessing about distractions on the edge of the frame.
I couldn't agree more. I did make a jump from the Canon 5D IV to the R5 for very tangible reasons. Slightly lighter and smaller body and lenses, more focus aids, and the articulating LCD screen. Does it take a better photo? Not really. But all the things I listed sure help me as an older photographer moving into my golden years. If I were younger, I would still be using the 5D IV. I learned long ago to stop spending money on new gear without real justification.
Absolutely spot on the upgrade cycle for new is totally new "upgrades" I basically buy used always on my Olympus equipment for wildlife photography. For family grandchildren shots a top end smartphone is sadly pretty good TBH that's why you have me as a subscriber,, I don't do much landscape photography but you always speak sense!
I bought a second 5D Mark IV in July 2024, after I had dropped my first 5D IV onto onto wet ground. My first one did successfully dry-out, and it is good to now have a spare.
Like yourself Adam, ive looked at the R5 on and off but my EOS R is still cutting the mustard for me so its been glass to give me different options or travel where i have been spending the last years along with the Pro1000 to enjoy the last loop of the photography process
You make a coherent argument, and what you say applies very well to someone who shoots mainly stationary objects, and rarely has to shoot handheld. That's not me -- I often must shoot handheld and I find the added expense of switching from the Canon 5D4 to the Canon R5 very well worth it. I get far more keepers with the R5 when I must shoot handheld, because the AF in the R5 is noticeably superior to that of the 5D4. It just grabs focus, dependably. Also, the in-body stabilization really helps, esp when used with a stabilized lens. And then there's the elephant in the room: being able to look in the viewfinder and see exactly the image you will get at your current settings! It's fantastic -- allowing me to much more quickly adjust my settings in changing conditions. The R5 electronic viewfinder is really high quality, and I never feel that I'm looking into a pale digital imitation of reality. The EOS R viewfinder is also quite good. ALSO, I love the R5's ability to give you a 1.6 crop, and therefore a 60% increase in telephoto reach. I often take the 2 hour ferry ride from Vancouver Island to mainland BC, I regularly must deal with great distances. When you have 45 megapixels, your 1.6 crop still yields close to 20 mpx. AND, I must say, I do like the R5 RAW files. The 5D4's are very good, but I find the R5's are better. There's more depth and robustness to them. Image quality at higher ISO's is significantly better. I'm not running the 5D4 down -- it's an excellent, dependable, high-end camera. But the improvements in the R5 definitely make life easier for the photographer with varied needs, yields more keepers. For this kind of photographer, it is simply a better tool. I do appreciate your honest opinions and well-presented, very informative videos, Adam.
A 5D Mark IV for wildlife? Give me a break! A 5D Mark IV for landscape? Knock yourself out. You do both? (OK, I do both) Decisions, decisions. I went mirrorless a few years ago because of my bird photography. I'm currently shooting an R5 Mark II. If I only did landscapes, I too would be very happily still using a 5D Mark IV.
Absolutely spot on! I brought a lumix s5 as my entry point to full frame photography a few years ago - it’s not got the best features but it takes great images and does exactly what I need it to do 👍
Not everything about photography is the image. It's also about the workflow. the ease of use to achieve the image you want. I love my canon R5ii and R5. The images are gorgeous but more importantly, they're easier to shoot (better af, more fps, more dynamic range, etc.) and easier to develop. I still have my canon 6d and 6d2 and I wouldn't regret using them, but my R5ii makes it easier to just go out and shoot and anything that gets you to go out and shoot is worth it.
One of your best video essays Adam! The camera market has trended to video where everyone's so called flagship camera is essentially a video camera that also allows you to shoot stills. They seem to be very good for fast action, moving object photography, but no one seems to tout what you mentioned, excellent dynamics range, low noise at higher iso's, etc. I went from a 5Ds to a R5 and at the end of the day the images were of the same quality. I do enjoy and prefer the the feel and handling of the R5 which is superior. That said I'm not upgrading anytime soon as these hybrid cameras are not for me.
Seems to me the answer to your conundrum might be to set a budget. In business, this would become a key component of your managed cash flow. Then you'd buy what you need for the next project when you need it - new or used. You would also not be able to start that project until the capacity is there'd your ready to generate a return.
Great video! I am still getting great images from a twenty year old 5MP bridge camera! I can print them to A3 for displaying around the house (I’ve no space for anything bigger). Also I have 4 other cameras, all bought used over the years and I couldn’t be happier! But if people have wads of spare cash, go for it! Why not? But I for one are not tempted.
Great vid again! Really refreshing and so practical. Because imagine if you’d bought into a brand new mirrorless system with new lenses, etc.., and then your computer, hard drive & monitor broke! But… I do need to ask some advice and would appreciate your view. I’m relatively new to photography, so bought an APS-C DSLR system second hand with a few of the best complementary lenses I could get/afford. I’ve had some really good results with the landscape genre and recently joined a camera club to get some more experience. Since then, I’ve joined some interest groups within the club and I’m seeing the limitations of relatively poor autofocus & non-weatherproofing but I don’t want to spend a fortune either! The 24MP resolution is fine, but I realise I’d have to change the whole system to address those issues. Love to have your thoughts, or a camera & lenses which you think would be worth consideration.
Stick with what you have. How did photographers in the past manage, yet we love their work don’t we? Being in a club and seeing what other gear people have can be a temptation. I would say work on and improve your skills first, then when you have reached a good level, consider getting a better camera, only if you can easily afford it that is. Consider used, for that is how I buy all my gear.
@ I agree on all you have said. Would need to spend £2k-£3k to get what I need, but definitely doesn’t feel like the right thing to do. Another option would be to spend just £500 on a used Nikon D500 (I have a D5600) to get great autofocus and weatherproofing on the camera at least, and I can still use the same lenses.
I really like this channel and Adam as he's got his feet on the ground... I rarely comment on any YT videos, but I will now. So... I jest not here - I can understand the quest for greater detail and resolution for any photographer, but seriously does a landscape one actually need autofocus or even auto-exposure? We're constantly being told that the most important thing is the 12" behind the viewfinder - and Adam excels at that. That's the really efficient pro part of his images.
Love this and fully agree with your perspective. I upgraded my canon80D to the canon R5 not long ago. A very worthwhile upgrade for me as I started shooting professionally and needed the full frame sensor and faster fps for sports photos. I don’t think I will need to replace this camera ever, until it stops working - it’s so good. When the R52 came out I just didn’t understand why people with an R5 already would want to upgrade as it was such a small difference between the two. I’m still using my EF lenses with an adapter, and I will just slowly add RF lenses to my collection as needed. My EF70-200f2.8 still works great on the R5 so I don’t see why I would want to replace it with the RF version. Some people say faster focusing which I suppose is true but I am able to grab focus on moving subjects just fine with the EF lens still so I don’t think it’s enough of a problem to spend thousands more on a new version of the same lens. The only thing I do eventually want is a longer reaching lens for wildlife like the new 200-800 F9 or if by some miracle I could afford it a 600mm F4. My next big purchase will likely end up being a photo printer though! I would love to be able to offer physical prints to my clients rather than redirecting them to another printing company! As well as explore some of my own artistic interests with printing.
Thanks for your thoughts. In my experience good landscape photography can be achieved with most cameras available today. APS-C is good enough for most use cases. The advanced features available on modern mirrorless cameras are very useful for fast action and wildlife photography. Dynamic range is not a big issue in most scenarios. Phone ergonomics are dreadful and some of their quotes specs are suspect.
You are a welcome exception amongst many photographers on You Tube, who seem to "update' or change cameras every year. I have been shooting with my Nikon D810 since March 2015 and have no reason to buy a new camera yet. Although it's getting more tempting to get a smaller mirrorless camera for lighter travel.
Canon, Nikon and others have given us the most fantastic tools to produce images that were very difficult to achieve with "Film" cameras. Technology moves on, (as it should, I suppose) but, if we can't afford to buy the latest, fastest, best you can afford. get what the best your budget allows suits you .
Brilliant video. I’m in a similar position to you with regards to my iMac has just gone past its sell by date. Would you be able to share what set up you went for for photo editing
@ It was. I got a team of eight people together, and we made a photo comic. It was a time travel story, with dinosaurs. We used toy dinosaurs, and made photo composites. Of course, it didn't look very realistic, so we processed the pictures to look like they were drawings. The software we use wasn't very good, so it looked pretty awful, but it was fun, and we learned a lot. Later, I began combining photography and 3D, with much better results.
Great advice Adam👍🏻 I bought a Canon 5DsR in 2016 as a retirement gift to myself 😎 I already had a 5D mk2 ( a fantastic camera) & still use it. I also have the Trinity of Canon L lenses & able to shoot from 16mm to 400mm! I’d rather spend more on Travel to places like Lofoten, New Zealand Scotland 🏴 ( i live in Australia 🇦🇺) I still don’t have a large printer though😢 Great content… Cheers👍🏻
Hi Adam. I too, have the 5DIV and I love it. Like you, I think if it had an articulating screen, it would be perfect. There will always be the lure of upgrading to say, the R5II, but I know it will never make me a better photographer, or make my photography trips any more enjoyable. So like you, I think I'll stick. If I win the lottery, I may be persuaded to upgrade, tho 🤣. Keep doing what you're doing. Nigel
I got a 5D II for peanuts last year (shop had it marked as "faulty" but it just needed the focusing screen inserted correctly). I was coming from long term mirrorless, and omg so many of gripes were already solved decades ago lol. Using optical with 0ms lag is like magic.
Only this week I've been looking through old transparencies on a slide projector and screen (yes, I still own them) and was surprised just how sharp they are. All taken on Canon film cameras and non L lenses. I'm still using Canon DSLRs and have no plans to upgrade to mirrorless. As you elude to Adam, it's sales hype to keep selling products which is understandable from their point of view. I don't need bird eye focus or 20+ frames per second. Stick with your camera and if it gives up the ghost buy a good used replacement from MPB etc. Keep up the good work.
I started with a Canon 20D back in the day - absolutely LOVED that camera and when I got the 70-200 f/2.8L non-IS, I got some amazing pictures with it. I eventually sold all of it and didn't pick up a new camera until I got a used Sony A7R IVa when I moved out West to Wyoming. During that, I inquired with a local ILB baseball team and became their photographer at the games - and this is where I found the A7R IVa to be lacking, mostly with the FPS and autofocus. So, I sold it and upgraded to a used Sony A1. Seeing the new A1 ii, I'm really thinking that you're right - where else, aside from maybe improving global shutter noise and dynamic range, are they going to make noticeable improvements that would justify an upgrade? Your videos in particular are what have me vastly more interested in getting one of the Canon photo printers and starting to print out my own images. Recently, I went out and printed an image I took for a coworker of mine who left to go back home as a gift and... seeing that physical copy was everything you said it would be. Now I want to get some scrapbooks and print out my pictures. You've been quite an inspiration and motivator for me to look at my hobby differently and I greatly appreciate it!
Part of the reason I upgraded to the mkiv from the ii was due to excessive hot pixels during long exposures. This is also now getting worse on my mkiv and may prove to be the final straw again. I still have the mark ii though and it still great for most normal shots.
Brilliant video! Exactly my thoughts lately. I have 5D mkiv as well and very pleased with it. 35mm camera sensors dynamic range has reached current level over ten years ago. Perhaps that is the reason for new medium format camera models since they have a bit wider dynamic range. But only a bit. I think that the more photographing skills we gather and the more experienced we become the more challenges we pursuit. I find new gear (including AI) less appealing to me since taking photos with those kind of innovations will be easier not harder. As if someone else is doing it for you. I have even considered to buy an old film camera for that reason. Lately I have invested in photography books more than new gear.
I have two Nikon D810 one with 350k shutter actions and one with 71k. Recently the the 71k one developed an intermittent fault even though I had it "repaired/serviced" my confidence was still low. So, I ended up purchasing the D850 I considered a mirror less Z6 but this would also require me to replace my lenses or use the adapter. Pixel count jumps from 36.6 to 45 something, there are a few other differences but I don't think they will improve my photography. Getting the camera out Will, which I fail to do most weeks!
I completely agree 100%. I still use my Nikon 7200 and still produce images that I am really happy with, I think that if you know your camera and have some idea on post editing, then upgrading only if the gear starts to wear out. My best addition to my photography was my mini 3 pro drone, I have started a small collection of videos on my channel, not a plug 🤭 but as well as the videos, you can get some amazing stills that without a drone, you could never get. Adam, always treasure the Skype call you gave me all those years ago 🤗
I fully agree on your camera thoughts, just a shame I can't stick to it LOL Can't really agree on printing, a print is nice but so are digital images and digital is more shareable. I get the digital dust thing but I've boxes of prints gathering real dust!
Hi Adam .. thanks for another great from the heart blog. The times I’m out with my photography friends like minded people who just get it … gear doesn’t give you experiences like that. Yes it’s about photography but the people the places and shared times complete the deal.😊👍.. K - New Zealand
You are absolutely correct, however, every time I hear one of the photographers I follow talking about GAS, I am reminded of my dangerous self, and let me explain, I have been a computer and software professional since the dawn of the computers, well almost😁, at least since the time we have to create code on punched cards that them will be interpreted by a computer occupying a whole floor in building and I am still at it, which has meant an constantly update on skills and technology and adaptation over more than 40 years, this is a long way to explain that the need for changes and chasing new technology, now in the camera world is prevalent and I need to control myself. That being said, since I started back in photography I have own 2 systems, I started with a Canon 90, 50mm and 70-200 mm my intent is to go outside and take the land and sea scapes so I quickly found the equipment to be heavy and dragged me to shorter hikes and less time outside so, after a careful study of options and where I wanted to be in my photography adventure I decided for a fuji X system, specifically the X-H2 and I own a 80mm macro, a 56mm and a 16-55mm, which not only cut the weight almost in half but the change was based on what is the best I can get with the money I have, I was able to pay for more than half of my new system with the money I've got from selling my Canon system. My next investment would be a printer, I have been considering it as my photography is getting better, so I think 🤣, and have to admit that between you and Keith Cooper have me inspired and leaning towards it, aside from the fact that the process of learning how to print seems a good challenge to tackle. Sorry for the long story, I always appreciate your insides and knowledge. P.S. I have to stay away from the Hasselblad site 👹😵💫🤣🤣🤣
Not a long story but similar to my own, oh Ill have nightmares about punched cards and progamming using tape, not quite all floor computers, but about time when IBM brought the first desktop out, you had to book time to use servers
@@andirutherford2615 Whew! I thought I was old but I began writing software on the IBM 8086, swapping 5 1/4 disks to use a word processor or spreadsheet . I did begin my photo journey with the Canon AE-1......
My main camera was from 2017 and is still going strong. I am tempted by an upgrade because I do more wildlife photography now and better autofocus is very tempting, but still... I get great shots at 42MP and the main reason I am looking at buying one is that my second body (from 2015) has a broken screen, a dodgy viewfinder and terrible AF (it is still fine for landscapes but does not work well for wildlife). So far though - the options that I am looking at are not at a price point that I would deem to be reasonable for the benefits. Cost benefit analysis is the name of the game :)
I photographed a full wedding with a Ricoh GR. You would never know. They loved the pictures and recommended ne to other couples. You don't need a load of gear.
Great conversation and very worthwhile message. I am happy with my DSLR for my landscape photography. Although I have to admit to getting a lighter mirrorless for travel and that has been terrific. Otherwise my D850 remains as my friend.
Updated from 5D4 to R5. Video performance is light years ahead. Stills, better too, due to the EVF, easier to get the shot right with minimal editing. R5II - Nope, no advantage for my needs. Same with RF glass, the old EF works just fine.
Here's a news flash: "peak lens" may have occurred for SLR systems, but in comparison, the new mirrorless pro glass tends to be much better than their predecessors. The RF 85/1.2 may be the sharpest lens I've ever owned, even wide open.
It’s definitely a nice evolution. Although I’d love to hear from sports or wildlife photographers about how many shots they’ve missed due to a rolling shutter. If it’s enough to justify an upgrade, then fair enough.
I feel the same way. I photograph landscape and wildlife. I have yet to see a video that convinced my that my D850 is a limitation... and I don't personally want a camera that removes the need for all skill. Then again I also shoot film...
Lets be honest we are truly spoiled these days with the cameras on offer - as a working pro as you say, main reasons for upgardes, has to be able to work back into the business. Why did I go for a Z9 as an upgrade form my D850 - simply for when i work on video projects as well as my stills. The speed is nice, but in reality it was the video that I personally wanted for my work. I so know what you mean about the EVF, they are great, but I do just love looking through my SLRs and its why, I still have a D4 in the bag for that pure experience - alongside my film cameras. In the same way you do, I still use single point and group modes, as I did on my DSLRs and find that although it can be handy the eye detection, I still find myself working how I always have. Maybe for those getting into photography today because they have it, its how they shoot, but it doesn't render the old skills we have built up useless and largely, i find those skills are far more useful to make creative work that the computing of modern cameras doesn't understand! I think when it comes to new cameras, other than sometimes wishing for better ISO and dynamic range - I mean can we have a 16 BIT FX cam please? I really cant see what I need and its why old style cameras/lenses or just looking into just getting out and creating is a far better way to spend and invest ££!
Just came across yourself as browsing Utube. I to have up until this year been using my smart phone ( 15PM 48mp Raw) and have to to say it’s finding the subject and being somewhere at right time ti get amazing photos. Yes I finally took the plunge and bought a used R5 and Used EF Lens coming from old Pentax 35mm SLR film camera and had fun with the learning curve and still learning to use it properly, the Camera is fantastic but a lot more faff compared to to the super convenient phone but yes huge improvement for using zoom lens as the iPhone gets very noisy And pixelated soon as zooming in or cropping and that’s the advantage. So it’s nice to see you using older gear to still get great images. Yes I get that new gear for certain professions that want perfection and clean images for fast moving sports projects but oh the costs are huge. Ps. I had 3 cannon printers and they all broke after a year or two oddly. My Epson Xp-900 is about 6 yrs old and still working perfectly with zero issues 🥳🥳
Ahhh the window shopping of the potential upgrade is definitely fun! I'm a bit hard on my cameras, so I wait til I break it which is about every 3-4 years 😂
Nice objective outlook on gear and whats important. I agree for the most part and I'm certainly aware that a new camera and lens wouldnt make me a better photographer. I do find myself getting drawn in to the idea of getting a new camera from time to time though. The main thing I've found that has inproved my photography the most is visiting photogenic locations such as the Peak District and Snowdonia as it inspires me and gets me in a creative frane of mind, I'd love to go to Scotland at some point too. I do think there are cases when new gear can help your photography, if you're upgrading from a particularly old camera with poor dynamic range to something more modern it can help but its certainly not going to instantly make you better. One thing I've discovered about myself recently is that I love photography and taking photos but I can't stand post processing, it bores the hell out of me, I've got a load of photos from Snowdonia which I offloaded from my SD card to lightroom but i just havent felt any inspiration to edit them at all.
I enjoy a limited amount of post processing. These days I often use a preset to get me started and do it as quickly as possible. If I’ve captured a good frame, it’s generally seems to edit itself and I don’t have to think too much about it. When I’m out on a days shoot, like in my vlogs, I only really make 3-4 compositions. It makes the edit very manageable and most of the time I’ll edit the same day or the next morning and I’m done. My general feeling is that many landscape photographers take too many photos on a shoot. If I came back with 20 average compositions, the edit would be extremely tedious. Remember - “Twelve significant photographs in any one year is a good crop.”
@ Thanks for taking the time to reply Adam, I’ve never really played around with presets before so perhaps that’s something that could help get the ball rolling. I’ve got some photos from the trip I’m really happy with and I’ve edited the jpegs I transferred to my phone so I know the raw files have the potential. I think since I’ve been shooting mainly photos of my family and daughter mainly for the last couple of years I normally just shoot and use the jpegs straight out of the camera from the X-T1, they look so good that I normally don’t touch them at all, that has been so liberating not feeling the need to shoot RAW and having to edit every photo I like to extract the best from it. When I go back to shooting Landscapes it just makes me realise what a chore it is to sit in front of a computer and edit the photos as I’d much rather just be out with my camera somewhere. I certainly don’t take anywhere near as many photos as I used to but yes I’m guilty of taking too many still at times, all part of the constantly learning and refining over time I suppose, I’ve never really been naturally artistic so seeing and imagining how a scene it going to look is something I’ve had to work hard on for a long time now, it still doesn’t always work out how I imagined it but I don’t want that to discourage me from experimenting. As for the printing side of things, I agree it’s lovely to see your photos in print as a tangible thing, I’ve only got a little Canon Selphy printer which is by no means a serious photographers printer but it’s been lovely to print my family photos off and hang them around the house rather than them just sitting on a hard drive or a phone, my daughter loves looking at them too and brings back memories of holidays or just fun days we’ve had at home. All the best.
Well spoken. I recently grabbed my old APS-C DSLR and went outside to shoot with it. It was a rewarding experience, because it was not about gear and a presumably better technical image, but about the subjects of my interest and the joy of capturing them.
Too much sense, man. You make TOO MUCH SENSE and my head is going to explode now... So great to hear somebody call it as it is and not fall for the consumerism economy. Well done, Adam! reminding us how to keep our priorities straight. 🙏
Landscape is one niche where you can get by without latest equipment. Nothing to autofocus, no need for fast bursts or precapture, no need for silent shutter, each session isn’t 5k shots, no supertelephotos needed, low light can be compensated by stacking or long shutter speeds etc. It is important to remember that this is not true for many other types of photography, where the latest cameras not only make life easier but also in many ways even enable it.
As sports photographer in often low light environments, mirrorless has been lifesaver. I welcome each advancement in AF, shutter speed, stabilization, faster lenses, and so on.
Loved the video anyways! Refreshing to see this vs dozen sponsored gear ads/content.
Absolutely. It’s important to have the right tool for the job.
Although, as time moves on, those upgrade gains become increasingly marginal.
Really appreciate your time and would definitely be needing a faster lens if I was shooting some sports….which I may be doing soon!!
@ I agree. I don’t really know what else even sports shooters need beyond A9iii/R1/R5mk2/Z9 have today. No issues with rolling shutter, AF is awesome, precapture exists, insane burst speeds etc.
On the lenses, we need to really invent something new to squeeze any more low light capabilities from them. Beyond incremental advances, we need design/material breakthru there.
Good luck shooting sports! It is so much fun, enjoy!
It is good to upgrade even for landscape, for example only olympus and lumix i think they have star autofocus, when i had dslr i was putting the lens blindly on infinity or struggling to guess when a star is the smallest in liveview
Adam
My cameras are all Pentax DSLR cameras I bought my first Pentax DSLR in 2005 a Pentax *istDL 6 megapixel CCD Sony sensor camera I still use it today as I've never had any problems with the camera and it uses AA batteries. In 2006 I bought my son a Pentax K100D another 6 megapixel camera. In 2015 I upgraded to a Pentax K50 a 16 megapixel weather sealed camera. In 2018 I have my son the Pentax K50 and I upgraded to a Pentax K70 a 24 megapixel camera with a flip screen. In 2020 my Pentax K70 had Apature block failure so I bought a used Pentax K3-11 that does not have Apature block problems and is Pentax top ASP-C camera to replace the K70. My son sent the K70 camera to a repair facility in Oregon that specializes in Pentax Apature block repair and he had the camera fixed for $100.00 and it works fine now
Nobody cares what camera you shot the pictures on they only care about the end results and a DSLR camera for most applications is just as good as a mirrorless camera in taking pictures
Pentax is a good choice and it's funny how many times people have told us they are a dead brand. My first was a K-r, and then I picked up a K-30 (firmware upgrade made it a K-50 and added PLM lens support). I have my eye on a K-S2, which I think is about as much DSLR as I'll ever need. They have such lovely lenses too. Love the handling, the RAW image quality and those special Pentax colours. The Pentax philosophy has always been to deliver features that matter, coupled with a polished user experience. Buttons, control wheels all the in right place, super comfortable grips, the easiest lens change experience in any system ever, and the cleanest and most intuitive menus. IBIS since 2006! Weather sealing in entry level bodies! 100% viewfinder coverage! I could go on...
Wise words Adam. I'm still using my 5D M4 and 5d SR, and have no reason or inclination to change these. If it ain't broken, don't fix it. Kind regards, Charles.
Have been following you since the beginning and you are my inspiration to KISS it, I think too many photogs want to emulate the pros they see on u tube who promote the latest and greatest gear. Have been very happy with my obsolete Canon 5D MKll/ 7DMKll combo and older EF lenses. Keep up the inspiring work !
I been watching camera videos now for 5 years religiously, and today is the first time your channel has ever came up on my feed, and I am glad this video is made just for me. As I have g.s.s. Thanks
Thanks, really appreciate your time.
Erm, I do love a new bit of gear! But... I agree with spending the money on boots, weather gear and a van. I think the van has turned out to be one of my best purchases, even with its initial problems. I wont mention the new Voigtlander lens no no. Excellent video! And who's this chap popping up at the end 😂 One of the best days of this year!
A significant reason I continue to view your presentations is because you use a relatable camera, that I also use.
I always appreciate guys like you who squeeze the most out of their gear. I think its really ridiculous that I spent soo much on new cameras for photography only to edit them to look more like "film" and the older DSLRs have horrible ibis/lenses/focus that add all the "grit" that we are all trying to replicate and add back into our photos. For video, I cant disagree enough, the newer technology makes it almost brainless to operate and allows me to focus more on composition and lighting.
Totally agree with you. The best investment is not to buy a new camera but to know deep every function of the camera you own. I've a Canon 6d mk2, five years together and still it is a solid companion of my photography journey. If I've some extra money I prefer to buy another good quality lens (used of course, from a secure shop that offer two years of warranty) to experiment a different view and expand my creativity. Thanks Adam !
Great commentary. As a hobbyist I have always used entry level camera bodies because that is what I could afford. I did invest in better quality lenses, all used as that is what I could afford. I recently bumped into another photographer in my area that has all the latest gear. He was so busy telling me how great his gear was that he missed an amazing sunset. We have since compared some prints from a photo session we were both at and he admitted his did not have the same outcome as mine and could not understand it. I suggested he spend time learning his craft rather than buying more gear. Apparently I offended him as he won't speak with me anymore. One of the reasons your channel is so precious is due the fact you don't push gear. Cheers!!!
I still use my Canon 5D and 5DS! And will never change! I love them. And major workhorses!! Great vid Adam!
Hang on to that 5DS. Last time I looked they were going up in value!
@ oh excellent! Thanks for the info!
Wise words Adam. Stick with your own advice and upgrade when you need to. You should own the equipment, don't let the equipment own you.
It was going well up to the moment you shared your views on the DJI Action 4. It’s been one of the best videos cams I’ve owned, more reliable than the Go Pro! On another note, changing to mirrorless from the 5D3 to my R6 has been a revelation and changed the way I shoot ie no tripod and 99% handheld. Your style and preference to shoot photography is key. Great content Adam
Yeah, i recall you saying you'd given up the tripod. It's a good point though and it's definitely about having the right tool for the job. Unless its the Action 4.....that'll never be right!!🤣
Agree, the DJI Action 4 had been great for me and much better quality than any other action cams I've tried.
As a landscape photographer, it's brain dead simple: go on MPB or KEH, buy a 5DsR or Z7 for about USD1,000 or less, add the two lenses you need and be done with it.
Very refreshing and the reason I’m still subscribed. I recently unsubscribe to a number of other TH-cam photography channels as they all started using ‘gifted’ Hasselblad cameras. Totally out of touch with reality and whores to the advertising budget of DJI.
Ι've also started unsubscribing from YT channels that are mostly about gear. Getting free stuff and money by trying to empty my wallet is not my cup of tea!
For landscapes I'm pretty happy with my 8-12 year old dslrs and the ultra cheap lens combo I managed to collect from people that were convinced they needed the upgrade. Fair play and good for them. And lucky me!
If Phase One offer me the XT with IQ150 back, you might have to unsubscribe.......🤣
@ as long as you use it in the rain I’ll stick around for that video 😜
@@Firstmanphotography this is the way
this only tells how much jealous you are and how much emphasis you put on gear
Nice! My main camera is 10 years old, I bought it 2 years after its release. The mighty SONY RX1
This year I got a GR iiiX as the side-kick
As a purely hobbyist (not even gonna call myself a photographer just a dude with a decent camera), the main reason to upgrade was size & weight plus finding reasonably priced good quality lenses. I shot D90 / 18-200 for long enough but found I like re-discovering photos I took on old trips in Lightroom and on a newer 4k monitor they didn't look good at all. Eventually went to a D850, but for travel I was stuck with a 35mm as the zoom ranges for full frame were either weird or expensive or heavy (850+24-70 weighs almost 2Kg) or not-great quality. Now I can take a Z7ii on holiday with 14-30 plus 24-70 f/4 and come back with amazingly sharp photos using two lenses that weigh significantly less the one F-Mount one.
DSLR forever!
Well done 👏👏! I needed to hear/watch this.
Glad it was helpful!
Sticking with my 6D MKII, (using a 70-200L lens for almost everything).
Don't see any need for a change/upgrade, and never taken in by any review/sales hype.
P.S. Like the Strat at 4.24.
This is why I love watching Adam, he still uses a (Canon) DSLR while other photography TH-cam channel folk have moved to mirrorless, expensive cameras, expensive lenses, which is fine but we can't all afford them or even have them gifted to us. Well said Adam and a great philosophy for life!
All makes sense, I have a Canon 6D2 and it still does the job. I don't think I need a newer Camera unless the prices come down somewhat. Love your Work !
Im thinking of down grading my camera after up grading it because all the extra resolution and updated raw file types means I now need to upgrade my computer and my software (photoshop) which is not very cost effective.
I love your thinking and absolutely agree with you.
The way I put it, if someone has a few thousand to spend and wants to take better photos, what should they do?
1) buy new gear, or
2) spend it on trips to great locations (not necessarily at the other side of the world).
For the fast majority of people, I'm convinced it's hands down option 2.
Even those who have really bad gear that limits them (it *is* possible, though not common) could upgrade to not-the-latest version of a good camera and a decent lens, and have some left to travel.
Beyond the pictures they come back with, the experience's memories would last forever, while the "having a new fancy camera" feeling will be quickly forgotten
I agree with your sentiments! Photography is more important than cameras ….. following on from your comments about printing, I have really enjoyed pulling together photo books….. it is a project that requires focus and enables us to present a larger body of work together. The per image cost of printing a photo book is very reasonable. I’m currently working to build a couple of bodies of work that I intend to print via books … may take another year or so, but will be well worth it
Since I started printing I find im more of a perfectionist. My mindset is now that every landscape picture I take has to be potentially good enough to print and put on my wall. No more quick snaps, lots more standing around and obsessing about distractions on the edge of the frame.
I couldn't agree more. I did make a jump from the Canon 5D IV to the R5 for very tangible reasons. Slightly lighter and smaller body and lenses, more focus aids, and the articulating LCD screen. Does it take a better photo? Not really. But all the things I listed sure help me as an older photographer moving into my golden years. If I were younger, I would still be using the 5D IV. I learned long ago to stop spending money on new gear without real justification.
Absolutely spot on the upgrade cycle for new is totally new "upgrades" I basically buy used always on my Olympus equipment for wildlife photography. For family grandchildren shots a top end smartphone is sadly pretty good
TBH that's why you have me as a subscriber,, I don't do much landscape photography but you always speak sense!
I bought a second 5D Mark IV in July 2024, after I had dropped my first 5D IV onto onto wet ground. My first one did successfully dry-out, and it is good to now have a spare.
Like yourself Adam, ive looked at the R5 on and off but my EOS R is still cutting the mustard for me so its been glass to give me different options or travel where i have been spending the last years along with the Pro1000 to enjoy the last loop of the photography process
Excellent video Adam. Solid common sense advice
The reminder I very much needed 👍 great video
You make a coherent argument, and what you say applies very well to someone who shoots mainly stationary objects, and rarely has to shoot handheld. That's not me -- I often must shoot handheld and I find the added expense of switching from the Canon 5D4 to the Canon R5 very well worth it. I get far more keepers with the R5 when I must shoot handheld, because the AF in the R5 is noticeably superior to that of the 5D4. It just grabs focus, dependably. Also, the in-body stabilization really helps, esp when used with a stabilized lens.
And then there's the elephant in the room: being able to look in the viewfinder and see exactly the image you will get at your current settings! It's fantastic -- allowing me to much more quickly adjust my settings in changing conditions. The R5 electronic viewfinder is really high quality, and I never feel that I'm looking into a pale digital imitation of reality. The EOS R viewfinder is also quite good. ALSO, I love the R5's ability to give you a 1.6 crop, and therefore a 60% increase in telephoto reach. I often take the 2 hour ferry ride from Vancouver Island to mainland BC, I regularly must deal with great distances. When you have 45 megapixels, your 1.6 crop still yields close to 20 mpx. AND, I must say, I do like the R5 RAW files. The 5D4's are very good, but I find the R5's are better. There's more depth and robustness to them. Image quality at higher ISO's is significantly better.
I'm not running the 5D4 down -- it's an excellent, dependable, high-end camera. But the improvements in the R5 definitely make life easier for the photographer with varied needs, yields more keepers. For this kind of photographer, it is simply a better tool. I do appreciate your honest opinions and well-presented, very informative videos, Adam.
A very solid argument. It’s important to have the right tool for the job, and like I said in the video, the R5 is pretty much the perfect camera.
A 5D Mark IV for wildlife? Give me a break! A 5D Mark IV for landscape? Knock yourself out. You do both? (OK, I do both) Decisions, decisions. I went mirrorless a few years ago because of my bird photography. I'm currently shooting an R5 Mark II. If I only did landscapes, I too would be very happily still using a 5D Mark IV.
I recently purchased the Canon 10d and I'm loving it with a plastic Diana lens I bought 20 years ago for a tenner. Art vrs gear.
Absolutely spot on! I brought a lumix s5 as my entry point to full frame photography a few years ago - it’s not got the best features but it takes great images and does exactly what I need it to do 👍
My local pub has a 1200mmx800mm canvas print of one of my pics hung on the wall, the detail looks good and it was shot on my old 24MP APS-C Canon M5.
Not everything about photography is the image. It's also about the workflow. the ease of use to achieve the image you want. I love my canon R5ii and R5. The images are gorgeous but more importantly, they're easier to shoot (better af, more fps, more dynamic range, etc.) and easier to develop. I still have my canon 6d and 6d2 and I wouldn't regret using them, but my R5ii makes it easier to just go out and shoot and anything that gets you to go out and shoot is worth it.
I agree, workflow is very important a finding the right camera is great. I'll be excited to try out the R5ii
Thanks for this. I can see that you are fine with what you have.
One of your best video essays Adam! The camera market has trended to video where everyone's so called flagship camera is essentially a video camera that also allows you to shoot stills. They seem to be very good for fast action, moving object photography, but no one seems to tout what you mentioned, excellent dynamics range, low noise at higher iso's, etc. I went from a 5Ds to a R5 and at the end of the day the images were of the same quality. I do enjoy and prefer the the feel and handling of the R5 which is superior. That said I'm not upgrading anytime soon as these hybrid cameras are not for me.
Seems to me the answer to your conundrum might be to set a budget. In business, this would become a key component of your managed cash flow. Then you'd buy what you need for the next project when you need it - new or used. You would also not be able to start that project until the capacity is there'd your ready to generate a return.
My Sony A9 since 2018: 978 K shots 😜 👍
Wow, that snow shot is incredible!
Just switched to phase one for fashion, portrait etc. Slow but spectacular
Perfect 👌
Thank you for this video Adam. You have a very valid point - and I fully agree with you (still using my old Canon 1DmkIV and loving it).
Great video! I am still getting great images from a twenty year old 5MP bridge camera! I can print them to A3 for displaying around the house (I’ve no space for anything bigger). Also I have 4 other cameras, all bought used over the years and I couldn’t be happier! But if people have wads of spare cash, go for it! Why not? But I for one are not tempted.
Great vid again! Really refreshing and so practical. Because imagine if you’d bought into a brand new mirrorless system with new lenses, etc.., and then your computer, hard drive & monitor broke!
But… I do need to ask some advice and would appreciate your view.
I’m relatively new to photography, so bought an APS-C DSLR system second hand with a few of the best complementary lenses I could get/afford. I’ve had some really good results with the landscape genre and recently joined a camera club to get some more experience.
Since then, I’ve joined some interest groups within the club and I’m seeing the limitations of relatively poor autofocus & non-weatherproofing but I don’t want to spend a fortune either! The 24MP resolution is fine, but I realise I’d have to change the whole system to address those issues.
Love to have your thoughts, or a camera & lenses which you think would be worth consideration.
Stick with what you have. How did photographers in the past manage, yet we love their work don’t we? Being in a club and seeing what other gear people have can be a temptation. I would say work on and improve your skills first, then when you have reached a good level, consider getting a better camera, only if you can easily afford it that is. Consider used, for that is how I buy all my gear.
@ I agree on all you have said. Would need to spend £2k-£3k to get what I need, but definitely doesn’t feel like the right thing to do.
Another option would be to spend just £500 on a used Nikon D500 (I have a D5600) to get great autofocus and weatherproofing on the camera at least, and I can still use the same lenses.
I really like this channel and Adam as he's got his feet on the ground... I rarely comment on any YT videos, but I will now. So... I jest not here - I can understand the quest for greater detail and resolution for any photographer, but seriously does a landscape one actually need autofocus or even auto-exposure? We're constantly being told that the most important thing is the 12" behind the viewfinder - and Adam excels at that. That's the really efficient pro part of his images.
Thanks Bob. Very kind words.
Love this and fully agree with your perspective. I upgraded my canon80D to the canon R5 not long ago. A very worthwhile upgrade for me as I started shooting professionally and needed the full frame sensor and faster fps for sports photos. I don’t think I will need to replace this camera ever, until it stops working - it’s so good. When the R52 came out I just didn’t understand why people with an R5 already would want to upgrade as it was such a small difference between the two. I’m still using my EF lenses with an adapter, and I will just slowly add RF lenses to my collection as needed. My EF70-200f2.8 still works great on the R5 so I don’t see why I would want to replace it with the RF version. Some people say faster focusing which I suppose is true but I am able to grab focus on moving subjects just fine with the EF lens still so I don’t think it’s enough of a problem to spend thousands more on a new version of the same lens. The only thing I do eventually want is a longer reaching lens for wildlife like the new 200-800 F9 or if by some miracle I could afford it a 600mm F4. My next big purchase will likely end up being a photo printer though! I would love to be able to offer physical prints to my clients rather than redirecting them to another printing company! As well as explore some of my own artistic interests with printing.
Thanks for your thoughts. In my experience good landscape photography can be achieved with most cameras available today. APS-C is good enough for most use cases. The advanced features available on modern mirrorless cameras are very useful for fast action and wildlife photography. Dynamic range is not a big issue in most scenarios. Phone ergonomics are dreadful and some of their quotes specs are suspect.
You are a welcome exception amongst many photographers on You Tube, who seem to "update' or change cameras every year. I have been shooting with my Nikon D810 since March 2015 and have no reason to buy a new camera yet. Although it's getting more tempting to get a smaller mirrorless camera for lighter travel.
Canon, Nikon and others have given us the most fantastic tools to produce images that were very difficult to achieve with "Film" cameras. Technology moves on, (as it should, I suppose) but, if we can't afford to buy the latest, fastest, best you can afford. get what the best your budget allows suits you .
Brilliant video. I’m in a similar position to you with regards to my iMac has just gone past its sell by date. Would you be able to share what set up you went for for photo editing
I am in complete lock step with all of these points. Well said 👍🏼👍🏼
Great video Adam👍
Well done. I absolutely agree 👍 with this video
After buying a camera, the best investment I've done, was buying good books on photography, painting, and making comics.
Making comics sounds very cool. 👌
@ It was. I got a team of eight people together, and we made a photo comic. It was a time travel story, with dinosaurs. We used toy dinosaurs, and made photo composites.
Of course, it didn't look very realistic, so we processed the pictures to look like they were drawings. The software we use wasn't very good, so it looked pretty awful, but it was fun, and we learned a lot.
Later, I began combining photography and 3D, with much better results.
Great advice Adam👍🏻
I bought a Canon 5DsR in 2016 as a retirement gift to myself 😎
I already had a 5D mk2 ( a fantastic camera) & still use it. I also have the Trinity of Canon L lenses & able to shoot from 16mm to 400mm! I’d rather spend more on Travel to places like Lofoten, New Zealand Scotland 🏴 ( i live in Australia 🇦🇺) I still don’t have a large printer though😢
Great content… Cheers👍🏻
I could not agree more! Adam. Thanks for sharing
Appreciate your time, Steve. Thanks.
I have the 5D mk2 and ef35f1.4 and 85f1.8 and it is still fantastic photos.
Lovely images and a great attitude about photography and about life!
Hi Adam. I too, have the 5DIV and I love it. Like you, I think if it had an articulating screen, it would be perfect. There will always be the lure of upgrading to say, the R5II, but I know it will never make me a better photographer, or make my photography trips any more enjoyable. So like you, I think I'll stick. If I win the lottery, I may be persuaded to upgrade, tho 🤣. Keep doing what you're doing. Nigel
I got a 5D II for peanuts last year (shop had it marked as "faulty" but it just needed the focusing screen inserted correctly). I was coming from long term mirrorless, and omg so many of gripes were already solved decades ago lol. Using optical with 0ms lag is like magic.
Only this week I've been looking through old transparencies on a slide projector and screen (yes, I still own them) and was surprised just how sharp they are. All taken on Canon film cameras and non L lenses. I'm still using Canon DSLRs and have no plans to upgrade to mirrorless. As you elude to Adam, it's sales hype to keep selling products which is understandable from their point of view. I don't need bird eye focus or 20+ frames per second. Stick with your camera and if it gives up the ghost buy a good used replacement from MPB etc. Keep up the good work.
I started with a Canon 20D back in the day - absolutely LOVED that camera and when I got the 70-200 f/2.8L non-IS, I got some amazing pictures with it. I eventually sold all of it and didn't pick up a new camera until I got a used Sony A7R IVa when I moved out West to Wyoming. During that, I inquired with a local ILB baseball team and became their photographer at the games - and this is where I found the A7R IVa to be lacking, mostly with the FPS and autofocus. So, I sold it and upgraded to a used Sony A1. Seeing the new A1 ii, I'm really thinking that you're right - where else, aside from maybe improving global shutter noise and dynamic range, are they going to make noticeable improvements that would justify an upgrade? Your videos in particular are what have me vastly more interested in getting one of the Canon photo printers and starting to print out my own images. Recently, I went out and printed an image I took for a coworker of mine who left to go back home as a gift and... seeing that physical copy was everything you said it would be. Now I want to get some scrapbooks and print out my pictures. You've been quite an inspiration and motivator for me to look at my hobby differently and I greatly appreciate it!
I use a 5D MKII. It's a great camera. It's never missed a shot. Just bought DXO Pure RAW 4, and any noise issues have gone away now.
Part of the reason I upgraded to the mkiv from the ii was due to excessive hot pixels during long exposures. This is also now getting worse on my mkiv and may prove to be the final straw again. I still have the mark ii though and it still great for most normal shots.
This was a brilliant take.
Adam, You're awesome ❤
The only upside to people ditching their older gear is that there's a more affordable used market for those of us not fussed with the latest fad.
Brilliant video! Exactly my thoughts lately. I have 5D mkiv as well and very pleased with it. 35mm camera sensors dynamic range has reached current level over ten years ago. Perhaps that is the reason for new medium format camera models since they have a bit wider dynamic range. But only a bit.
I think that the more photographing skills we gather and the more experienced we become the more challenges we pursuit. I find new gear (including AI) less appealing to me since taking photos with those kind of innovations will be easier not harder. As if someone else is doing it for you. I have even considered to buy an old film camera for that reason. Lately I have invested in photography books more than new gear.
Yes. Using our technical skills to control our tools is an enjoyable, and meaningful, part of the creative process.
Spot on!
I bought a Canon R7 mirrorless to use for macro and absolutely love it. It would be extremely hard to go back to my 6D dslr.
I have two Nikon D810 one with 350k shutter actions and one with 71k. Recently the the 71k one developed an intermittent fault even though I had it "repaired/serviced" my confidence was still low. So, I ended up purchasing the D850 I considered a mirror less Z6 but this would also require me to replace my lenses or use the adapter. Pixel count jumps from 36.6 to 45 something, there are a few other differences but I don't think they will improve my photography. Getting the camera out Will, which I fail to do most weeks!
I completely agree 100%. I still use my Nikon 7200 and still produce images that I am really happy with, I think that if you know your camera and have some idea on post editing, then upgrading only if the gear starts to wear out. My best addition to my photography was my mini 3 pro drone, I have started a small collection of videos on my channel, not a plug 🤭 but as well as the videos, you can get some amazing stills that without a drone, you could never get. Adam, always treasure the Skype call you gave me all those years ago 🤗
I fully agree on your camera thoughts, just a shame I can't stick to it LOL
Can't really agree on printing, a print is nice but so are digital images and digital is more shareable. I get the digital dust thing but I've boxes of prints gathering real dust!
I reckon it’s healthy to give into our desires from time to time.
Hi Adam .. thanks for another great from the heart blog. The times I’m out with my photography friends like minded people who just get it … gear doesn’t give you experiences like that. Yes it’s about photography but the people the places and shared times complete the deal.😊👍.. K - New Zealand
Absolutely right.
Solid argument for printing at the end there 💯
You are absolutely correct, however, every time I hear one of the photographers I follow talking about GAS, I am reminded of my dangerous self, and let me explain, I have been a computer and software professional since the dawn of the computers, well almost😁, at least since the time we have to create code on punched cards that them will be interpreted by a computer occupying a whole floor in building and I am still at it, which has meant an constantly update on skills and technology and adaptation over more than 40 years, this is a long way to explain that the need for changes and chasing new technology, now in the camera world is prevalent and I need to control myself.
That being said, since I started back in photography I have own 2 systems, I started with a Canon 90, 50mm and 70-200 mm my intent is to go outside and take the land and sea scapes so I quickly found the equipment to be heavy and dragged me to shorter hikes and less time outside so, after a careful study of options and where I wanted to be in my photography adventure I decided for a fuji X system, specifically the X-H2 and I own a 80mm macro, a 56mm and a 16-55mm, which not only cut the weight almost in half but the change was based on what is the best I can get with the money I have, I was able to pay for more than half of my new system with the money I've got from selling my Canon system.
My next investment would be a printer, I have been considering it as my photography is getting better, so I think 🤣, and have to admit that between you and Keith Cooper have me inspired and leaning towards it, aside from the fact that the process of learning how to print seems a good challenge to tackle.
Sorry for the long story, I always appreciate your insides and knowledge.
P.S. I have to stay away from the Hasselblad site 👹😵💫🤣🤣🤣
Not a long story but similar to my own, oh Ill have nightmares about punched cards and progamming using tape, not quite all floor computers, but about time when IBM brought the first desktop out, you had to book time to use servers
@@andirutherford2615 Whew! I thought I was old but I began writing software on the IBM 8086, swapping 5 1/4 disks to use a word processor or spreadsheet . I did begin my photo journey with the Canon AE-1......
A great watch with wise words Adam.
Cheers Gary
My main camera was from 2017 and is still going strong. I am tempted by an upgrade because I do more wildlife photography now and better autofocus is very tempting, but still... I get great shots at 42MP and the main reason I am looking at buying one is that my second body (from 2015) has a broken screen, a dodgy viewfinder and terrible AF (it is still fine for landscapes but does not work well for wildlife). So far though - the options that I am looking at are not at a price point that I would deem to be reasonable for the benefits. Cost benefit analysis is the name of the game :)
Love this video! 👌
I photographed a full wedding with a Ricoh GR. You would never know. They loved the pictures and recommended ne to other couples. You don't need a load of gear.
🎯
Adam, I only upgraded my Canon DSLR’s due to age(14 years) plus my 1DS3 was showing signs of shutter failure ( regular black frames) so it had to go.
Great conversation and very worthwhile message. I am happy with my DSLR for my landscape photography. Although I have to admit to getting a lighter mirrorless for travel and that has been terrific. Otherwise my D850 remains as my friend.
Great comments Adam.
Updated from 5D4 to R5. Video performance is light years ahead. Stills, better too, due to the EVF, easier to get the shot right with minimal editing. R5II - Nope, no advantage for my needs. Same with RF glass, the old EF works just fine.
Here's a news flash: "peak lens" may have occurred for SLR systems, but in comparison, the new mirrorless pro glass tends to be much better than their predecessors. The RF 85/1.2 may be the sharpest lens I've ever owned, even wide open.
We need to take the Pepsi challenge.
global shutter in A9mk3 can be considered a game changer for the niche market
It’s definitely a nice evolution. Although I’d love to hear from sports or wildlife photographers about how many shots they’ve missed due to a rolling shutter. If it’s enough to justify an upgrade, then fair enough.
cool video. your style keeps me coming back. i too shoot with a 5d4 and love it.
I feel the same way. I photograph landscape and wildlife. I have yet to see a video that convinced my that my D850 is a limitation... and I don't personally want a camera that removes the need for all skill. Then again I also shoot film...
I'm still shooting with D800 which I bought 2012. No need to upgrade.
The R5 is my dream camera. Currently own the R6 MK II and I love it but I wish I had that 45mp sensor haha.
Lets be honest we are truly spoiled these days with the cameras on offer - as a working pro as you say, main reasons for upgardes, has to be able to work back into the business. Why did I go for a Z9 as an upgrade form my D850 - simply for when i work on video projects as well as my stills. The speed is nice, but in reality it was the video that I personally wanted for my work.
I so know what you mean about the EVF, they are great, but I do just love looking through my SLRs and its why, I still have a D4 in the bag for that pure experience - alongside my film cameras. In the same way you do, I still use single point and group modes, as I did on my DSLRs and find that although it can be handy the eye detection, I still find myself working how I always have. Maybe for those getting into photography today because they have it, its how they shoot, but it doesn't render the old skills we have built up useless and largely, i find those skills are far more useful to make creative work that the computing of modern cameras doesn't understand!
I think when it comes to new cameras, other than sometimes wishing for better ISO and dynamic range - I mean can we have a 16 BIT FX cam please? I really cant see what I need and its why old style cameras/lenses or just looking into just getting out and creating is a far better way to spend and invest ££!
Just came across yourself as browsing Utube. I to have up until this year been using my smart phone ( 15PM 48mp Raw) and have to to say it’s finding the subject and being somewhere at right time ti get amazing photos. Yes I finally took the plunge and bought a used R5 and Used EF Lens coming from old Pentax 35mm SLR film camera and had fun with the learning curve and still learning to use it properly, the Camera is fantastic but a lot more faff compared to to the super convenient phone but yes huge improvement for using zoom lens as the iPhone gets very noisy And pixelated soon as zooming in or cropping and that’s the advantage. So it’s nice to see you using older gear to still get great images. Yes I get that new gear for certain professions that want perfection and clean images for fast moving sports projects but oh the costs are huge.
Ps. I had 3 cannon printers and they all broke after a year or two oddly. My Epson Xp-900 is about 6 yrs old and still working perfectly with zero issues 🥳🥳
Ahhh the window shopping of the potential upgrade is definitely fun! I'm a bit hard on my cameras, so I wait til I break it which is about every 3-4 years 😂
100% truth 🎉 buddy, wishes from India 🇮🇳
I Agree.. i have had the Sony A1 for well over a year and don't really feel the need to upgrade.. 😊
Nice objective outlook on gear and whats important.
I agree for the most part and I'm certainly aware that a new camera and lens wouldnt make me a better photographer.
I do find myself getting drawn in to the idea of getting a new camera from time to time though.
The main thing I've found that has inproved my photography the most is visiting photogenic locations such as the Peak District and Snowdonia as it inspires me and gets me in a creative frane of mind, I'd love to go to Scotland at some point too.
I do think there are cases when new gear can help your photography, if you're upgrading from a particularly old camera with poor dynamic range to something more modern it can help but its certainly not going to instantly make you better.
One thing I've discovered about myself recently is that I love photography and taking photos but I can't stand post processing, it bores the hell out of me, I've got a load of photos from Snowdonia which I offloaded from my SD card to lightroom but i just havent felt any inspiration to edit them at all.
I enjoy a limited amount of post processing. These days I often use a preset to get me started and do it as quickly as possible. If I’ve captured a good frame, it’s generally seems to edit itself and I don’t have to think too much about it.
When I’m out on a days shoot, like in my vlogs, I only really make 3-4 compositions. It makes the edit very manageable and most of the time I’ll edit the same day or the next morning and I’m done.
My general feeling is that many landscape photographers take too many photos on a shoot. If I came back with 20 average compositions, the edit would be extremely tedious.
Remember - “Twelve significant photographs in any one year is a good crop.”
@ Thanks for taking the time to reply Adam, I’ve never really played around with presets before so perhaps that’s something that could help get the ball rolling.
I’ve got some photos from the trip I’m really happy with and I’ve edited the jpegs I transferred to my phone so I know the raw files have the potential. I think since I’ve been shooting mainly photos of my family and daughter mainly for the last couple of years I normally just shoot and use the jpegs straight out of the camera from the X-T1, they look so good that I normally don’t touch them at all, that has been so liberating not feeling the need to shoot RAW and having to edit every photo I like to extract the best from it.
When I go back to shooting Landscapes it just makes me realise what a chore it is to sit in front of a computer and edit the photos as I’d much rather just be out with my camera somewhere.
I certainly don’t take anywhere near as many photos as I used to but yes I’m guilty of taking too many still at times, all part of the constantly learning and refining over time I suppose, I’ve never really been naturally artistic so seeing and imagining how a scene it going to look is something I’ve had to work hard on for a long time now, it still doesn’t always work out how I imagined it but I don’t want that to discourage me from experimenting.
As for the printing side of things, I agree it’s lovely to see your photos in print as a tangible thing, I’ve only got a little Canon Selphy printer which is by no means a serious photographers printer but it’s been lovely to print my family photos off and hang them around the house rather than them just sitting on a hard drive or a phone, my daughter loves looking at them too and brings back memories of holidays or just fun days we’ve had at home.
All the best.
My last upgrade was from a D800E that broke to a Z8, still love using my D500.