Sean, your point about “if you are like me, you might get too precious with your photography.Too rigid, too strict” really vibed with my current state of mind. Thank you for bringing it to the forefront and allowing me to realise that it’s okay and that there’s more to photography than accuracy … there’s joy, peace and sense of achievement. So, really thanks for putting that point across so beautifully.
I like the way you present your "photography life" as a "journey". That is exactly what it is. We change, we develop, we get gear, we minimize gear, we sell, we buy, we get to understand what we like, and we change! Sometimes today I like to photograph in a certain way, and then a few years from now, we do it differently. As an "enthusiast" I have gone from film cameras, Nikon, Minoltas, etc. to my cameras today, Pentax and Ricoh ( and I have an Olympus XZ-10 which I love!). Just now waiting for my GR II to arrive. Thank you for your excellent videos!
I've been shooting with the GR for the last 3 years now, I'd highly recommend picking up the 21mm wide angle lens adapter. It does have a heavy distortion, but it extends the use of the camera hugely. Also a quick way to set hyperfocal (an old ricoh trick) is to hold the camera above your head and take a picture of your feet, check that the image is sharp, and turn off the autofocus, set your f-stop to f8 and forget about autofocus while shooting on the street. Best of luck!
Snapseed is a good option for android and they even offer RAW processing if you transfer the DNGs from the GRII. You can also add the instagram borders using the expand tool, so no need for an extra app.
Your TH-cam channel is one of the reasons why I take photos today. It keeps encouraging me to take photos and think of photography. Thank you so much Sean :)
The Ricoh GR is the most underrated camera in the photo industry. Very sharp lens, and a stunner (!) of a camera for timelapse, too. The configurable hyperfocal/snap feature is a must for street shooters - and it can be used on all apertures. On bright sunny days, the inbuilt ND filter is a life saver when you shoot with f2.8 aperture. The double exposure and astro freature is a big creative bonus, also. Same with the superfast access to presets. This camera grows on you for every shoot taken. A classic in every sense of the word.
I've been shooting professionally for 10 years and a lot longer before then. I too, had a similar journey in which I progressively started shooting wider and wider. Zooming in tight and blurring everything but your subject matter has a "professional" look to it and it's easy to do. Shooting wide is much more challenging. I still rely on those tight shots in my professional work, but if you look at my film stuff (my personal work), I never shoot with telephotos.
I have always hated shooting with a screen rather than a viewfinder. Recently though I purchased a Fujifilm x-m1 with tilting screen and I was surprised at just how like shooting a TLR it is. Excellent for discreet street photography and I am really enjoying it!
Wow... I have my Ricoh GRii for 1 week now and I'm so happy to have bought it. Shooting was never this fun and the quality is reeeealy dope for the size.
I learned photography on a point and shoot many years ago. One thing I found was how much more candid my images were. Everyone thought I was just playing around with the settings on my camera. I still own an old Canon power shot, I should take it out more. Thanks for the inspiration. :-)
Thanks for this video. I have realised, I used to click more photos and probably better ones when I used to shoot(rather carry around) my small Sony cybershot than my bigger bridge camera or dslr. I definitely have learnt a lot, improved over the years, but that small camera was more like a journal ! It stopped working a few years ago, but after this video I'm determined to get it repaired.
Thanks for the video! On this subject, one of my favorite ways to shoot street that helps me capture organic moments is hanging my camera around my neck, and connect with my phone to use as a preview/remote shutter release. Definitely depends on the camera you use, but I always keep an eye out for this feature
So agree. Wider focal lengths are more challenging to compose with, but can also be more rewarding. I am very interested in trying a 24mm equivalent for awhile for this very reason.
I struggle with this a lot as well. Finding something with a thin enough profile to fit in a cargo pants pocket, but still offer a good amount of control and quality, is my ideal. I have a Canon EOS M100. With the 22mm f2 lens it technically works, but it pretty much fills the pocket and isn't very comfortable. Cameras like the Ricoh in your video and the Fujifilm X70 do look really appealing.
Great compacts for street photography: Ricoh GR Fuji XF10 (also has snapshot focus) Panasonic LX100 (tiny body with tons of manual controls and dials) Sony RX100 (Best in class autofocus)
I love the intro and as always your insights are well tested and considered and having used the GR I agree with your take on it. Personally, I keep going back to a silver Panasonic LX100 / Leica D-Lux 7 in a vintage looking leather half-case as people seem to take me as a tourist, but most importantly the advantage I see is the 22*-70mm f/1.7 Leica Summilux, the rangefinder style EVF and the simple way you can set manual and automatic modes on the aperture, shutter speed and ISO with a flick of a dial, and I found the IQ to be on a par with the GR. For candid photography, the LX100 Wi-Fi remote mode and smartphone app is very useful as I can leave the camera hanging on a strap off my side and use the smartphone app to control all the functions including zoom. That provides a lower angle for more complementary images of people and I've got some uniquely natural and relaxed images for casual and even event shoots where I use the A7 as well. For classic street photo look of people, I love the GR and also the A7R and a vintage Manual glass like the Minolta/Leica 40mm f/2.0, and while I strive to be very discrete and respectful, in the U.S. so many people are not even if I'm not photographing people 'A7R seems to 'trigger' people and police into Paranoid and abusive reactions, and again that's where the GR has an advantage. *I found on the LX100 if I use Capture One I can pull more off the cropped multi-format sensor and get close to a 22mm F/L when zoomed fully out. CP-1 also seems to extract more detail, Micro-contrast, colour and lens RAW conversion Than Lightroom.
Really enjoyable video. I've had the Ricoh GR for around three years and it's the most inspiring camera I have ever owned - the way you can customise it is quite amazing. The points you make have all been reflected in my own experience. I love the photographic randomness that camera encourages (what you called playfulness) , the surprising detail you discover later in Lightroom.
I also use the thumb to shoot with it! My Ricoh GR is my "no camera" camera. It is the camera I have with me when I don't plan on having a camera with me. I almost always have it in my coat pocket or in a bag/backpack. The built in flash is shorted out, one of the lanyard holes is busted and the body shows a decent amount of wear by now.
Many thanks Sean ..... I agree with you totally! I am out to buy, as it will be with Park Cameras in a couple of weeks, the new Ricoh GRIII. Basically, to have an exceptional image quality camera that’s with me all the time, but goes beyond the capabilities of iPhone 8+.
No shame in a well executed gear video. Great to hear how a camera makes you feel and effects your photography rather than pixel peeping and reading spec sheets. More please (xt30?)
Your comment about focal length resonates. 10 years ago I used mainly 50 to 70mm equivalent and occasionally wider. Now it's more like 18mm to 35mm equivalent and occasionally longer. Not sure if it's a growing older thing or a just getting comfortable with it thing.
I love what's in my bag videos! They usually have huge bags and way more gear, butI always feel I get at least one good tip regardless. I feel that your compact kit and needs are similar to my own, and would be invaluable. Thanks!
Thanks Sean, love my GR2, only had it about 3 weeks, i feel doubly vindicated now! Thank you for a great channel, so thought provoking and proffesional .
Hi Sean, I've had a similar journey to you re camera gear, I went from Canon to Fuji to Sony, I used the Fuji X100, X100T, X100F and Leica Q for street, then I got the GRII for it's size and snap focus and found that, like yourself, not having a viewfinder was beneficial, you can get really close without anyone taking much notice. It's not the perfect camera but for street it's pretty damn close, i also like that it shoots DNG raw files, it was a game changer for me, just get extra batteries.
Thx Sean...I still getting over the selfconciousness of toting a camera around in street situations. A wrist strap has been a big improvement for me. I'm using an OM-D which is pretty small so I'll stuck at it for a while yet. O also prefer to use the viewfinder right now..maybe time to experiment with the articulating screen..
Same here. OM-D E-M5 Mark II with wrist strap. Usually the 17mm f1.8 stays on it when I'm shooting in the streets. It a nice tight package. Having said that, the new Ricoh GR III is on my wish list.
I never really thought about giving myself permission to be free and playful with my photography until you mentioned that, Sean. You always have good advice and philosophies.
I spend most of my time shooting from the hip. I like the snapshot aesthetic. After a while working with a specific lens, you get to 'know' what the image is going to look like in your mind before you shoot. I really like the 28mm focal length for street and recently I have been getting into 24mm as well (16mm equivalent on a Fuji, as you will probably remember). The main benefit I find is that by shooting from the hip you can get fleeting expressions on people's faces. Good video again, Sean.
My preferred focal length is 35mm. However, because of the lack of viewfinder, my Ricoh GR II is naturally extended farther from my eye and I am getting the same range of view that I get with a 35 mm pressed against my face. The other feature which I love is TAV modem where you control bith aperture and shutterspeed and let ISO be automatic. ...And this camera is a lot of fun to use.
I always come back to your video. Getting my Leica C-lux, I can now walk around with that one and the GRii, to take care of my needs. Love both cameras. When I do not have to carry heavy DSLR stuff around, and like quality and flexibility, those two make my day. Lately, after a few films with the Leica 5-axis stabilization, It has proven quite well.
Thanks for highlighting this great little camera. I've had mine for some time and though not my main shooter there is something really special about the GRii. It's hard to describe just how compact yet powerful this little guy is. Thanks for your continued content, Sean!
This is the first video I watched on your channel. I then watched another nine, one after the other. Great informational content and attention to detail with your video production. It won't take long to get through the rest of your videos. Good luck Sean!
Wow that snap focus feature is *spot on* for my style of shooting. That little Ricoh has been on my short list for a long time because of IQ. Definitely piqued my interest again. Thanks Sean!
Been using the GR for four years now. Love it, use it for all my travels and struggle to make myself take an SLR now. Big problem though was when I got a hair on the sensor, had to send it off to Germany. Thankfully it came back and was sorted.
I just bought a Fuji X-T3 for two reasons. I wanted something light that I could carry with me everywhere everyday so I’d shoot more. And the old school feel like the Canon AE-1 I learned on has an aesthetic that makes me happy and want to shoot more.
Definitely something for people to consider, I have dusted off the cobwebs from my Xpro-1 and with the 18mm lens it works in the same way as the Ricoh, the only difference is that the XPro-1 takes two days to wake up from its slumbers before it is ready to go :D lol!!
Picked up a refurbished Lumix LX100 for the same purpose. Nice manual control dials,. Doesn't sit near as flat the Ricoh, but does fit in my side bag or coat pocket. My carry with me everywhere camera
Sean, I am seeing this video 4 years after the fact but your thoughts are perfectly in line with the reasons I purchased a used Nikon A1000 in what I can see is mint condition for $478.00 on Amazon. The only difference is I needed reach for wildlife situations and this little camera is a 840mm zoom (35x zoom). I saw that and thought Holy Crap! It has a viewfinder but as you pointed out using the screen has its advantages and this one tilts as well. I too wanted to have a camera that I can manually set if necessary but small enough to always have in my pocket. Thank you Jay Maisel. I live in Portland, Oregon and during the pandemic the Mayor got into a pissing match with Trump that resulted in constant rioting for 90 days that resulted in the complete destruction of any and all businesses on the first floor of any building downtown. Since then crime and general anger has risen to the point I don't feel comfortable walking around with a DSLR and a decent lens for either shooting street or Architectural fine art in my free time. But this option gives me a chance again. Your video was very helpful to confirm what I was thinking. Thank you.
Sheeeeesh - for a "stuck in a hotel" TH-cam video, the quality of the footage and lighting in that room is really well done. You really know how to get good results in a seemingly compromised situation
Great stuff, Sean! I’ve been doing more street photography myself recently, and have been enjoying the Fuji X-T20, which I find well suited to that purpose. Having said that, people still notice it a bit more than I’d like and it’s not pocketable. Great shots with the Ricoh. Proof that you can get amazing images from a tiny camera if you know what you’re doing. Would love to join your workshop but I already do street photography in NYC for free on my own time, so I can’t really justify the expense. For some who maybe haven’t done it before that’s a great opportunity to learn. Happy to support via your books instead - enjoyed the first one from last year.
Great videos and a fantastic channel! Not sure why I didn't get addicted to it sooner :) This video rekindled my excitement for my GR II. I hadn't used it much lately but it is generally always with me. It really doesn't get in the way much and allows you to really focus on the scene. It is interesting that you have gradually become acclimated to wider lenses because I have found the same to be true of myself. I too used to be "safe" with the 85mm or a 70-200mm zoom. A couple of years ago I forced myself to start using a 50mm then went to a 35mm all the while working with the 28mm FOV of the GR II on and off. I often now feel the 50mm too "tight" and am using the 35mm/28mm much more frequently. I've also added a 21mm to the lineup but time will tell on that one. Just a great video that resonated with me very well, thanks!
Your videos are great man, and I also love watching the gear ones just as mush as the others. I don’t think you should shy away from those because unlike ‘gear channels’ you talk about a photographer’s approach and the philosophy behind why you’d choose a specific cam. Anyway, keep it going Sean!
By the way, I spent a challenging day at the Gumyoji market in Yokohama in Japan, using my newly acquired GRii. It is ADDICTIVE! Love the camera, especially shooting on B&W. LOVE IT! Thanks for your video! Kept it in aperture priority.
I think it's the way to go, have a second small pocket camera, so you don't have to worry about carrying extra equipment in a backpack. My choice is the Fuji X70, I added a small pocket flash and now it's my main choice for street photography. Great video!
It's on nearly all Ricoh digital compacts, and not just the newer ones like the GR range. The Capillo and R series cameras have it, and the Capillo / CX range have snap, and they shoot RAW. The lower end cameras like the R range can be had for as low as £8 on ebay. I have an R7 which has snap function and loads of customisation.
Thank you Sean for some very stimulating ideas, I have only just discovered your channel ( thanks to Peter Forsgård)and have already ordered your book.I invested in a Pen f last summer - as being retired it felt nostalgic and I realised that there are so many great cameras it can be overwhelming but if you find one that you have great fun using it motivates you to get out and just take more pictures.However the Pen f looks retro but is potentially very complex.I have taken lots of amazing shots with my iPhone, but it still does not “feel” like a camera even using the volume control as the shutter release! So your idea of sometimes using simple 'non threatening' pocket camera , which by its nature can force one to be more creative is something I will give serious though to. thanks again.
i believe its harder to shoot tighter. yes there is an initial discomfort to shooting closer to someone than before but once that passes you find that its easier to create a sense of space in your shots which are tied directly to how intimate an image is. 28mm is a great length for group photos, and works nicely on the street. a 50mm is really quite hard to get amazing shots with, but will always turn out decent ones, so the nifty fifty is often 'grown out of'. personally i'm thinking of picking up a small manual focus 50mm to shoot stopped down with for my street
Happy to see this video, Sean! I've discovered the same benefits from my Ricoh when shooting street. I force myself to bring it with me, because I don't have an excuse not to. I don't need a bag or anything. Thanks for talking about it!
Sean honestly do you have any audio books recorded by your voice ? listening to you is very relaxing , PLS if you do not have make it that would be awesome . great work mate
I wish you guys will do photography workshops here in Canada as well. I really like your style and I relate to your type of photography... it'll be amazing to learn more from you! 😊
I have owned a Ricoh GR for severak years now and I just love it. I actually have the viewfinder that you can fix on to the top I find it useful sometimes . More often than not though I just use the screen it is easier to carry that way :D Teddy
I'm glad to see you've visited the best of Europe, the Benelux! I hope you've seen Oud Zuid in Amsterdam, it's probably the best non tourist area in the city and every house there is worth a picture :)
I love my Ricoh GR II but had issues with it sucking in dust when the lens opened or closed which was a shame and actually ruined some shots. Good luck with this lovely little camera.
My dear phototherapist friend. I walked around my current neighborhood (in Japan) with my GRii, including street and a park with many flowers. It was so nice to be able to shoot street, color, B&W, flowers, macro, people, with a twist of my hand on my GRii. This is a WONDERFUL camera. AND, I am NOT moving to the GRii. Because, I am happy with the image quality, the GRii does not have built in flash, which is handy when needed, and by the way, the staff at Ricoh's headquarters in Ginza, Japan, told me that she used the GRii. WIll wait for the GRiiii maybe! And see what it brings!
Great content! When I have the time I often take my Sunday mornings off for myself and just walk around town with my Zeiss Milvus 35 f/2. It is a nice little lense and the manual focus makes you really think of the composition before taking the picture. To me, the slowing down of the process is much more needed than the speeding up as you experience. It is interesting that we have the exact opposite experience.
I just spend 2 hours in town doing street photography with my E-M10 and a minute 17mm lens. Nobody bats an eyelid about my taking photos of them. I usually shoot through the viewfinder but sometimes using the tilting screen. I simply cannot do that with my Nikon D750. I'm planning to buy a Panasonic GX80 and that will be perfect for discrete street photography.
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![เปิด อาณาจักร หมื่นล้าน "สาระตั้ม" l [Nickynachat]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/3XE0nPF4YkQ/mqdefault.jpg)
Sean, your point about “if you are like me, you might get too precious with your photography.Too rigid, too strict” really vibed with my current state of mind. Thank you for bringing it to the forefront and allowing me to realise that it’s okay and that there’s more to photography than accuracy … there’s joy, peace and sense of achievement. So, really thanks for putting that point across so beautifully.
I like the way you present your "photography life" as a "journey". That is exactly what it is. We change, we develop, we get gear, we minimize gear, we sell, we buy, we get to understand what we like, and we change! Sometimes today I like to photograph in a certain way, and then a few years from now, we do it differently. As an "enthusiast" I have gone from film cameras, Nikon, Minoltas, etc. to my cameras today, Pentax and Ricoh ( and I have an Olympus XZ-10 which I love!). Just now waiting for my GR II to arrive. Thank you for your excellent videos!
I love how you edit your videos. The soundtracks, the colour you use, etc.
Having a compact second camera is game changing. No excuses, just pick up and go.
I've been shooting 1000% times more since I've got my second one.
Which second camera you have?
Abhishek Arora Fuji X100F at the moment.
Sony rx100 iv ( "needed" a viewfinder) + Konica c35 AF2 - a smallish autofocus 35mm film camera :-)
@@aurora_viz ricoh GR2 here. (IG: freshouttafocus)
Totally agree. I carry an X-T20 with the XF27mm pancake lens. The X100 series seem to be a great choice for the folks who use those as well.
I've been shooting with the GR for the last 3 years now, I'd highly recommend picking up the 21mm wide angle lens adapter. It does have a heavy distortion, but it extends the use of the camera hugely. Also a quick way to set hyperfocal (an old ricoh trick) is to hold the camera above your head and take a picture of your feet, check that the image is sharp, and turn off the autofocus, set your f-stop to f8 and forget about autofocus while shooting on the street. Best of luck!
Good tips
Snapseed is a good option for android and they even offer RAW processing if you transfer the DNGs from the GRII.
You can also add the instagram borders using the expand tool, so no need for an extra app.
Man, I love this channel. Your content is so unique. More like a documentary/reality tv series than most TH-cam I watch.
"This is not a gear channel"
Gave the best gear review...
Thumps up from me, Sean!
Your TH-cam channel is one of the reasons why I take photos today. It keeps encouraging me to take photos and think of photography. Thank you so much Sean :)
Your video always has that calmness that i like
He needs to start an ASMR channel
Completely agree; calm, and no unnecessary, annoying music, thanks Sean.
The Ricoh GR is the most underrated camera in the photo industry. Very sharp lens, and a stunner (!) of a camera for timelapse, too. The configurable hyperfocal/snap feature is a must for street shooters - and it can be used on all apertures. On bright sunny days, the inbuilt ND filter is a life saver when you shoot with f2.8 aperture. The double exposure and astro freature is a big creative bonus, also. Same with the superfast access to presets. This camera grows on you for every shoot taken. A classic in every sense of the word.
Yes! Love linking w/ GR2 shooters. Find me (IG: freshouttafocus)
Some TH-camr's don't come up for air when they verbally deliver their verdicts etc., but your timbre gets right to the target. Urbane, in a word.
I have a sony a7r3 and a GRII, shoot much more with the later...glad to see you pick it up finally, hope to see more GR shots coming up later!
Thanks for sharing your thought process and the “why” behind your decisions. It helps many of us with our own journey.
I've been shooting professionally for 10 years and a lot longer before then. I too, had a similar journey in which I progressively started shooting wider and wider. Zooming in tight and blurring everything but your subject matter has a "professional" look to it and it's easy to do. Shooting wide is much more challenging. I still rely on those tight shots in my professional work, but if you look at my film stuff (my personal work), I never shoot with telephotos.
I have always hated shooting with a screen rather than a viewfinder. Recently though I purchased a Fujifilm x-m1 with tilting screen and I was surprised at just how like shooting a TLR it is. Excellent for discreet street photography and I am really enjoying it!
Yes, make a bag overview video! Also please talk about why you chose your specific bag.
Each and every video are so serene, clean and boosting, every morning I listen to Seans videos.
I needed to hear this - great message about not being so "planned" and meticulous with all of my photography. Thank you.
I always leave one or two fresh videos unwatched for later when I won't feel it (my photography or personal). The power of Sean's videos is insane.
Honestly possibly the best compact camera for street. I love your content Sean, very inspiring!
Now this is a TRUE photographer video. Loving the reason why you chose the Ricoh. I too carry a few cameras for different scenarios. Love it
Its just a joy listening to your perspective.
Wow... I have my Ricoh GRii for 1 week now and I'm so happy to have bought it. Shooting was never this fun and the quality is reeeealy dope for the size.
I learned photography on a point and shoot many years ago. One thing I found was how much more candid my images were. Everyone thought I was just playing around with the settings on my camera. I still own an old Canon power shot, I should take it out more. Thanks for the inspiration. :-)
Thanks for this video. I have realised, I used to click more photos and probably better ones when I used to shoot(rather carry around) my small Sony cybershot than my bigger bridge camera or dslr. I definitely have learnt a lot, improved over the years, but that small camera was more like a journal ! It stopped working a few years ago, but after this video I'm determined to get it repaired.
Thanks for the video! On this subject, one of my favorite ways to shoot street that helps me capture organic moments is hanging my camera around my neck, and connect with my phone to use as a preview/remote shutter release. Definitely depends on the camera you use, but I always keep an eye out for this feature
So agree. Wider focal lengths are more challenging to compose with, but can also be more rewarding. I am very interested in trying a 24mm equivalent for awhile for this very reason.
so happy to see your channel grow, you deserve it Sean
I struggle with this a lot as well. Finding something with a thin enough profile to fit in a cargo pants pocket, but still offer a good amount of control and quality, is my ideal. I have a Canon EOS M100. With the 22mm f2 lens it technically works, but it pretty much fills the pocket and isn't very comfortable. Cameras like the Ricoh in your video and the Fujifilm X70 do look really appealing.
Great compacts for street photography:
Ricoh GR
Fuji XF10 (also has snapshot focus)
Panasonic LX100 (tiny body with tons of manual controls and dials)
Sony RX100 (Best in class autofocus)
Common Sense Photography presented with a Zen Philosophy....Excellent.
I love the intro and as always your insights are well tested and considered and having used the GR I agree with your take on it.
Personally, I keep going back to a silver Panasonic LX100 / Leica D-Lux 7 in a vintage looking leather half-case as people seem to take me as a tourist, but most importantly the advantage I see is the 22*-70mm f/1.7 Leica Summilux, the rangefinder style EVF and the simple way you can set manual and automatic modes on the aperture, shutter speed and ISO with a flick of a dial, and I found the IQ to be on a par with the GR.
For candid photography, the LX100 Wi-Fi remote mode and smartphone app is very useful as I can leave the camera hanging on a strap off my side and use the smartphone app to control all the functions including zoom. That provides a lower angle for more complementary images of people and I've got some uniquely natural and relaxed images for casual and even event shoots where I use the A7 as well.
For classic street photo look of people, I love the GR and also the A7R and a vintage Manual glass like the Minolta/Leica 40mm f/2.0, and while I strive to be very discrete and respectful, in the U.S. so many people are not even if I'm not photographing people 'A7R seems to 'trigger' people and police into Paranoid and abusive reactions, and again that's where the GR has an advantage.
*I found on the LX100 if I use Capture One I can pull more off the cropped multi-format sensor and get close to a 22mm F/L when zoomed fully out. CP-1 also seems to extract more detail, Micro-contrast, colour and lens RAW conversion Than Lightroom.
Really enjoyable video. I've had the Ricoh GR for around three years and it's the most inspiring camera I have ever owned - the way you can customise it is quite amazing. The points you make have all been reflected in my own experience. I love the photographic randomness that camera encourages (what you called playfulness) , the surprising detail you discover later in Lightroom.
I also use the thumb to shoot with it! My Ricoh GR is my "no camera" camera. It is the camera I have with me when I don't plan on having a camera with me. I almost always have it in my coat pocket or in a bag/backpack. The built in flash is shorted out, one of the lanyard holes is busted and the body shows a decent amount of wear by now.
Many thanks Sean ..... I agree with you totally! I am out to buy, as it will be with Park Cameras in a couple of weeks, the new Ricoh GRIII. Basically, to have an exceptional image quality camera that’s with me all the time, but goes beyond the capabilities of iPhone 8+.
No shame in a well executed gear video. Great to hear how a camera makes you feel and effects your photography rather than pixel peeping and reading spec sheets. More please (xt30?)
I've had the same experience with the X100F. Take it with me EVERYWHERE and absolutely love it. Good to hear your thoughts, Sean.
I love the way you present your journey and it is so calming to listen to you. I would love to attend your workshops if there are any in the pipeline.
Your comment about focal length resonates. 10 years ago I used mainly 50 to 70mm equivalent and occasionally wider. Now it's more like 18mm to 35mm equivalent and occasionally longer. Not sure if it's a growing older thing or a just getting comfortable with it thing.
I’m glad I’m not alone on that:)
I love what's in my bag videos! They usually have huge bags and way more gear, butI always feel I get at least one good tip regardless. I feel that your compact kit and needs are similar to my own, and would be invaluable. Thanks!
As always, a delight. No one can display such a high level of mastery while maintaining an equivalent level of humility quite like you Sean. Cheers!
That's kind, thanks mate.
Thanks Sean, love my GR2, only had it about 3 weeks, i feel doubly vindicated now! Thank you for a great channel, so thought provoking and proffesional .
Awesome video as always and a message I needed to hear. Especially when you talked about getting "too precious" with your photography.
Hi Sean, I've had a similar journey to you re camera gear, I went from Canon to Fuji to Sony, I used the Fuji X100, X100T, X100F and Leica Q for street, then I got the GRII for it's size and snap focus and found that, like yourself, not having a viewfinder was beneficial, you can get really close without anyone taking much notice. It's not the perfect camera but for street it's pretty damn close, i also like that it shoots DNG raw files, it was a game changer for me, just get extra batteries.
Yes please, it would be quite informative and educational to know and learn what you carry in your daily carry bag :)
Ashwini Karkera I second this
Yes! Starting with: what bag is that? :)
@@kornenator I think it's a Lowepro ProTactic 350? Kinda Looks like one...
@@j.j.linden7269 Thanks+ It could very well be that one. I thought it would be a bit smaller, the 350 looks like was designed for a full DSLR kit.
@@kornenator Yeah, true. I guess we'll just have to wait for his video!
Also, Sean looks pretty tall so it's hard to really see the size of it. ;)
Thx Sean...I still getting over the selfconciousness of toting a camera around in street situations. A wrist strap has been a big improvement for me. I'm using an OM-D which is pretty small so I'll stuck at it for a while yet. O also prefer to use the viewfinder right now..maybe time to experiment with the articulating screen..
Same here. OM-D E-M5 Mark II with wrist strap. Usually the 17mm f1.8 stays on it when I'm shooting in the streets. It a nice tight package. Having said that, the new Ricoh GR III is on my wish list.
I use a neck strap because it makes me look like a goofy tourist, which is perfect. Kind of the opposite philosophy to being “discreet”.
I did exactly the same thing a few weeks ago: got a used GRII and it goes with me everywhere when I don't want to carry my other gear.
I never really thought about giving myself permission to be free and playful with my photography until you mentioned that, Sean. You always have good advice and philosophies.
No matter what I was doing, when I saw you posted new video, I just want to watch it right away! Always better than the top. Thanks, Sean!
Thanks my friend.
I spend most of my time shooting from the hip. I like the snapshot aesthetic. After a while working with a specific lens, you get to 'know' what the image is going to look like in your mind before you shoot. I really like the 28mm focal length for street and recently I have been getting into 24mm as well (16mm equivalent on a Fuji, as you will probably remember). The main benefit I find is that by shooting from the hip you can get fleeting expressions on people's faces. Good video again, Sean.
Precisely why I bought Fujifilm XF10 and carry it in my pocket every single day, good to hear that I am not insane!
My preferred focal length is 35mm. However, because of the lack of viewfinder, my Ricoh GR II is naturally extended farther from my eye and I am getting the same range of view that I get with a 35 mm pressed against my face. The other feature which I love is TAV modem where you control bith aperture and shutterspeed and let ISO be automatic. ...And this camera is a lot of fun to use.
I always come back to your video. Getting my Leica C-lux, I can now walk around with that one and the GRii, to take care of my needs. Love both cameras. When I do not have to carry heavy DSLR stuff around, and like quality and flexibility, those two make my day. Lately, after a few films with the Leica 5-axis stabilization, It has proven quite well.
That’s exactly why I got me a FujiX70. Great video and correct on every point. Thank you Sean.
I appreciate your videos so much. Your “Collection II” book was also excellent. Thank you Sean.
Thanks for supporting Mark.
Thanks for highlighting this great little camera. I've had mine for some time and though not my main shooter there is something really special about the GRii. It's hard to describe just how compact yet powerful this little guy is. Thanks for your continued content, Sean!
I love shooting wide, because it forces you get closer to subject, talk to the people or you can move back and shoot wide to tel different stories.
I own the ricoh and it makes you shoot more . It's an amazing camera. I got happy to see you got one . Love your videos bro
This is the first video I watched on your channel. I then watched another nine, one after the other. Great informational content and attention to detail with your video production. It won't take long to get through the rest of your videos. Good luck Sean!
Thanks Norman:)
Wow that snap focus feature is *spot on* for my style of shooting. That little Ricoh has been on my short list for a long time because of IQ. Definitely piqued my interest again. Thanks Sean!
Been using the GR for four years now. Love it, use it for all my travels and struggle to make myself take an SLR now. Big problem though was when I got a hair on the sensor, had to send it off to Germany. Thankfully it came back and was sorted.
I just bought a Fuji X-T3 for two reasons. I wanted something light that I could carry with me everywhere everyday so I’d shoot more. And the old school feel like the Canon AE-1 I learned on has an aesthetic that makes me happy and want to shoot more.
A good camera is a box that makes you wanna sketch out and fire, Fuji made this.
Definitely something for people to consider, I have dusted off the cobwebs from my Xpro-1 and with the 18mm lens it works in the same way as the Ricoh, the only difference is that the XPro-1 takes two days to wake up from its slumbers before it is ready to go :D lol!!
welcome to the GR club. Also an alpha user but that GR has given me the most authentic and human shots. Love your stuff.
I have been more excited for the release of these videos than anything else lately, great stuff.
I picked up the GRI about 6 months ago super cheap and love it. Love you videos, thanks for all the content.
Lovely to see Amsterdam and a nice surprise with the groupphoto at the end. Have a good one Sean. Cheers!
Picked up a refurbished Lumix LX100 for the same purpose. Nice manual control dials,. Doesn't sit near as flat the Ricoh, but does fit in my side bag or coat pocket. My carry with me everywhere camera
Sean, I am seeing this video 4 years after the fact but your thoughts are perfectly in line with the reasons I purchased a used Nikon A1000 in what I can see is mint condition for $478.00 on Amazon. The only difference is I needed reach for wildlife situations and this little camera is a 840mm zoom (35x zoom). I saw that and thought Holy Crap! It has a viewfinder but as you pointed out using the screen has its advantages and this one tilts as well. I too wanted to have a camera that I can manually set if necessary but small enough to always have in my pocket. Thank you Jay Maisel. I live in Portland, Oregon and during the pandemic the Mayor got into a pissing match with Trump that resulted in constant rioting for 90 days that resulted in the complete destruction of any and all businesses on the first floor of any building downtown. Since then crime and general anger has risen to the point I don't feel comfortable walking around with a DSLR and a decent lens for either shooting street or Architectural fine art in my free time. But this option gives me a chance again. Your video was very helpful to confirm what I was thinking. Thank you.
I'm currently using Sony A6300 but have had my eye on the Ricoh for a very long time now. Thanks for the inspiration, I might be getting one soon.
Sheeeeesh - for a "stuck in a hotel" TH-cam video, the quality of the footage and lighting in that room is really well done. You really know how to get good results in a seemingly compromised situation
Great stuff, Sean! I’ve been doing more street photography myself recently, and have been enjoying the Fuji X-T20, which I find well suited to that purpose. Having said that, people still notice it a bit more than I’d like and it’s not pocketable. Great shots with the Ricoh. Proof that you can get amazing images from a tiny camera if you know what you’re doing. Would love to join your workshop but I already do street photography in NYC for free on my own time, so I can’t really justify the expense. For some who maybe haven’t done it before that’s a great opportunity to learn. Happy to support via your books instead - enjoyed the first one from last year.
Great videos and a fantastic channel! Not sure why I didn't get addicted to it sooner :) This video rekindled my excitement for my GR II. I hadn't used it much lately but it is generally always with me. It really doesn't get in the way much and allows you to really focus on the scene. It is interesting that you have gradually become acclimated to wider lenses because I have found the same to be true of myself. I too used to be "safe" with the 85mm or a 70-200mm zoom. A couple of years ago I forced myself to start using a 50mm then went to a 35mm all the while working with the 28mm FOV of the GR II on and off. I often now feel the 50mm too "tight" and am using the 35mm/28mm much more frequently. I've also added a 21mm to the lineup but time will tell on that one. Just a great video that resonated with me very well, thanks!
Your videos are great man, and I also love watching the gear ones just as mush as the others. I don’t think you should shy away from those because unlike ‘gear channels’ you talk about a photographer’s approach and the philosophy behind why you’d choose a specific cam. Anyway, keep it going Sean!
Yes! Do a bag video! I enjoy how you think and work and love learning from you!
By the way, I spent a challenging day at the Gumyoji market in Yokohama in Japan, using my newly acquired GRii. It is ADDICTIVE! Love the camera, especially shooting on B&W. LOVE IT! Thanks for your video! Kept it in aperture priority.
Thank you. Your candor and knowledge are refreshing.
I think it's the way to go, have a second small pocket camera, so you don't have to worry about carrying extra equipment in a backpack. My choice is the Fuji X70, I added a small pocket flash and now it's my main choice for street photography. Great video!
Which flash may i ask. I have a x70 as well...and want to upgrade to x100f.
That snapfocus sounds like a smart function! I would want that its perfect for street! 😍
It's on nearly all Ricoh digital compacts, and not just the newer ones like the GR range.
The Capillo and R series cameras have it, and the Capillo / CX range have snap, and they shoot RAW. The lower end cameras like the R range can be had for as low as £8 on ebay. I have an R7 which has snap function and loads of customisation.
Thank you Sean for some very stimulating ideas, I have only just discovered your channel ( thanks to Peter Forsgård)and have already ordered your book.I invested in a Pen f last summer - as being retired it felt nostalgic and I realised that there are so many great cameras it can be overwhelming but if you find one that you have great fun using it motivates you to get out and just take more pictures.However the Pen f looks retro but is potentially very complex.I have taken lots of amazing shots with my iPhone, but it still does not “feel” like a camera even using the volume control as the shutter release! So your idea of sometimes using simple 'non threatening' pocket camera , which by its nature can force one to be more creative is something I will give serious though to. thanks again.
Would love to see whats in your bag and what a great vlog, thanks for sharing.
Another great video. I enjoy your more esoteric approach to photography.
I see this video again and again. And I always learn something new from it. And it always brings me peace. As it does for most of your videos. :-)
i believe its harder to shoot tighter. yes there is an initial discomfort to shooting closer to someone than before but once that passes you find that its easier to create a sense of space in your shots which are tied directly to how intimate an image is. 28mm is a great length for group photos, and works nicely on the street. a 50mm is really quite hard to get amazing shots with, but will always turn out decent ones, so the nifty fifty is often 'grown out of'. personally i'm thinking of picking up a small manual focus 50mm to shoot stopped down with for my street
Happy to see this video, Sean! I've discovered the same benefits from my Ricoh when shooting street. I force myself to bring it with me, because I don't have an excuse not to. I don't need a bag or anything. Thanks for talking about it!
Sean honestly do you have any audio books recorded by your voice ? listening to you is very relaxing , PLS if you do not have make it that would be awesome . great work mate
Wow stunning images. I really admire your work Sean. Keep them coming and thank you for sharing.
What an inspiration you are always Sean, thank you....
I wish you guys will do photography workshops here in Canada as well. I really like your style and I relate to your type of photography... it'll be amazing to learn more from you! 😊
Shoot from your hip with your thumb, yes it's a very practical method I also found when using my X-M1 ... 👍👍
I have owned a Ricoh GR for severak years now and I just love it. I actually have the viewfinder that you can fix on to the top I find it useful sometimes . More often than not though I just use the screen it is easier to carry that way :D Teddy
Tu forma de analizar las cosas y compartir esa perspectiva es brillante!
I'm glad to see you've visited the best of Europe, the Benelux! I hope you've seen Oud Zuid in Amsterdam, it's probably the best non tourist area in the city and every house there is worth a picture :)
I love my Ricoh GR II but had issues with it sucking in dust when the lens opened or closed which was a shame and actually ruined some shots.
Good luck with this lovely little camera.
My dear phototherapist friend. I walked around my current neighborhood (in Japan) with my GRii, including street and a park with many flowers. It was so nice to be able to shoot street, color, B&W, flowers, macro, people, with a twist of my hand on my GRii. This is a WONDERFUL camera. AND, I am NOT moving to the GRii. Because, I am happy with the image quality, the GRii does not have built in flash, which is handy when needed, and by the way, the staff at Ricoh's headquarters in Ginza, Japan, told me that she used the GRii. WIll wait for the GRiiii maybe! And see what it brings!
As always! Inspiring People!👊👊👊
Great content! When I have the time I often take my Sunday mornings off for myself and just walk around town with my Zeiss Milvus 35 f/2. It is a nice little lense and the manual focus makes you really think of the composition before taking the picture. To me, the slowing down of the process is much more needed than the speeding up as you experience. It is interesting that we have the exact opposite experience.
I just spend 2 hours in town doing street photography with my E-M10 and a minute 17mm lens. Nobody bats an eyelid about my taking photos of them. I usually shoot through the viewfinder but sometimes using the tilting screen. I simply cannot do that with my Nikon D750. I'm planning to buy a Panasonic GX80 and that will be perfect for discrete street photography.
Sean! I just discovered your channel. Thanks a lot for those videos!