My guess is that the videos are popular because you are humble, enthusiastic, helpful, and honest about the good and the bad. I appreciate seeing the RAW files, and the stunning processed results. Good job.
The chatter these days is burst rates, ISO, megapixels, dynamic range, buffer rates, full frame, apsc, auto focus, eye tracking and the mind numbing list goes on and on. We don't speak of motivation, inspiration, composition, purpose, storytelling, artistic intent, interpretation. Photography has suffered so much because of the focus on the latest and the greatest. Thank you for this, it is very necessary to see your infectious enthusiasm. Enjoying the process without regard for outdated gear.
It’s an extremely difficult time for me now so when I saw you’d posted a new video, I knew my day would be better. I was not disappointed. The reason I love your videos is because the joy you find in nature photography is infectious. And just like your dear friend, Matt, you give to others both your joy and knowledge. You honor your late friend and have inspired and touched me, once again. Thank you, sir.
Thanks Mark, I am happy you enjoy my videos and they are helping you. Sorry to hear you are going through a difficult time. Yes, Matt was a wonderful friend and inspiration and would have loved this session. Cheers, Duade
What a way to honour your mate Matt’s memory. You’re inspiring thousands in this blissful hobby with your infectious love of wildlife. I’m sure he’d be chuffed ❤
I shot streets for many decades but only lately I’m into birds. Each time I go out, like street…..I push myself in the way I compose or “see” the bird. Being a beginner it’s fascinating to notice behaviours of different type of birds. Sometimes after the first edit I’ll take a second look and see somthing I didn’t notice before, very cool.
The enjoyment comes from discovery and surprise. I took 500 shots the other day out walking. The last few of a male kestrel trying to impress a female with it's display of hunting skills was pure icing on the cake.
I bought a Canon t4i in 2008 with some kit lenses to document my grandkids growing up. I soon learned that living on the lake gave me access to a lot of birds and other wildlife. Spent the cash for a 100-400 L series and got hooked on birding. That’s what I still shoot with for kid’s sports and everything. Strictly amateur but it brings me great joy as do your videos. I love your enthusiasm.
Duade, for so many of us who want to pursue this hobby and have the hardware to do so but not enough time or inspiration to go out, you do a brilliant job of capturing why we should. Just pure passion, simplicity and love for nature. Absolutely adore your work, please never stop so we don't either.
I like the peace and quiet of the early morning. Right now, all I have is a cellphone and a spotting scope for my wildlife photography it takes good shots, but the foucusibg and other setting are hard to mess with and still get the shot.
I started wildlife photography because of my grandfather, he had the late 90s and early 2000s DSLRs for years and taught me how to use a camera, he later gifted me a Canon Rebel EOS and an EF 100-300 5.6L as a graduation gift which at the time it was already a 6 or 7 year old camera and 15 year old lens but the message was "its less about the camera and more about the lens and the user I used that thing till 2019 when it hit 120k shutter count and quit working, now it sits in my collection as a reminder for my 1st good quality camera now I use the T7 and have a T3 as a back up for landscape and close ups.
Thanks for sharing your story and what a wonderful way to get into photography, I totally agree with what you have said, I am surprised my 40D is still going strong all these years later. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade how many photos have you taken with the 40D? I really like how a lot of the low light photos came out so you have sold me on an older DSLR again.
Sorry for the late reply, I missed your reply, I have had the camera for 14 years I think and taken loads of shots with it. Its max ISO is 1600 I think which limits its low light abilities, and being such a small old sensor it does not match the newer models. But it does very well for the cost. Cheers, Duade@@David_Quinn_Photography
My first film camera was the Pentax K1000 in 1986, then first digital was Canon 5D mkI. Think it was 12mp, full frame, 9 AF points. The salesman said it would be the only digital camera I’d need as it was so advanced. Lol. That didn’t turn out to be true but was an amazing camera. Sold it when I bought the mk II. Then the mk III now on R5C.
Landscape for me. But after years of commercial photography I enjoy the tranquillity and being alone. Like you I take my old trusty d80 out of the bag but it has just passed.
I started with film/slide on an EOS 5/A2e and the Canon EF 75-300 IS trying to photograph a relatively small bird (probably a Sanderling) in the Palmforest lagoon in southern Crete in 2002. It was just after sunset and I was using a polarizer to minimize the reflections and I didn't have enough light/speed to freeze the bird that had the habit of walking around the lagoon rather than stay stationary at one spot long enough for me to photograph. Those days everything was manual more or less and 3 fps max. Plus, I wasn't shooting at eye level. In short it didn’t work out, and when the prints came back I said: 'I must do better'. Until then I was doing mainly landscape and travel photography, and the occasional portrait. This set me on the path for to bird and wildlife photography trajectory and it took me many years to put a decent kit together. I appreciate today the 40D+EF400 are at a bargain price but when they first came out they were prohibitively expensive for me. So my next iteration was the 450D+75-300 which was great but slow and not enough reach. Then I got the EF 100-400 II IS (still using the 450 body) and I thought I was the king of the hill. Until I tried to focus in early morning fog (everything was grey) trying to photograph wales and it wouldn't focus, so I moved to the 7DII. This combo was mind blowing for stationary wildlife but for moving wildlife the AF would often let me down; esp. when using the 1.4x - cause I wanted more reach. And IQ wasn't that great to be honest. Then I got a 300 f/2.8 still with my 7DII using 1.4x and 2x. Which I still found slow for moving subjects, AF would be hit and miss which would frustrate me to no end - and I did had the whole combo calibrated by Canon. Eventually I migrated to the R5 and this year traded my 300 for a 500 f/4. Most of my gear I got to solve a particular problem I encountered in a particular situation in the field. Most of my gear I got a couple of years after the product was launched (so to have reviews and tests, prices to go down) and often towards the end of a model's life when on sale so at least a generation behind of what each time was the equivalent latest and greatest.
Your video shows us so well, that it's not the gear wich takes the good pictures - but the person behind. A lot of photograpers buys the newest gear and never learn how to use it ;-)
It's the location and the light in real terms, the areas that Duade has access to are so miraculously amazing for bird photography, wild but by a road, free from other people, stunning light from an Australian dawn and birds that are not so afraid of people that they fly away instantly. It never ceases to amaze me how lucky he is to have free access to these areas and species, it's the one thing I reflect upon the most when I watch his videos. Of course one can get amazing photographs with such access with birds so close you can use 200mm and the free ability to choose your angle. When your birds are more skittish and your light not so reliable then having longer faster lenses and bodies able to cope with higher ISOs and shoot faster fill in some of the gaps allowing you to make the most of the rarer opportunities you get. It's not easy in other parts of the world, areas where exciting impressive species are present, not too skittish and you can legally get right down to the waters edge without disturbing the birds are rare in the UK for instance, they exist but you might need special access (be a warden on a reserve, or have permission from a landowner etc) Public reserves have hides that give poor angles and are often badly placed in terms of light direction, sometimes they don't even open until the good light is gone and the pools are fenced off, all for good reasons, but it does make things more difficult, weeping for the lost wild areas in the UK is something you do more frequently once you start getting in to wildlife. Duade is a passionate and skilled bird photographer but he is so lucky to have access to the places he does and yes scouting and finding these locations is a skill as well, but I would kill for access to somewhere like the wetlands that Duade seems to favour. Perhaps an vid focussing on this special place would be enlightening.
The best thing about this video is the pure joy of photography without obsession of the latest and greatest gear. Thank you for the inspiration and your joy is so genuine and contagious. The reason I do it is for the love of nature and the animals that I photograph. I have more trust in them than I do in humans.
As a beginner in wildlife photography myself, I think it's fantastic you share pretty much everything, even when things don't really work out too well (6:39). It just helps to be reminded that you don't nail every shot, even with years or decades of experience.
You mentioned it, the Flow State. There's something about going out into nature that makes me feel like I am 7 years old again and getting ready to go out on an adventure. Time just slips away and all I'm focused on is trying to relive that same "flow" energy that as a child, it made everything full of wonder.
I have found that landscape and wildlife photography do the the exact same thing for me really. It's all about getting out, away from people, and engulfed in a world where I am the minority. That's humbling to me. I watch wildlife photography videos and landscape photography videos and have never consciously differentiated between the two. They're the same to me. It's really the personality behind the information and experience. So Duade, if you read this, I think people tune it to watch you because you are genuine first. You are relaxing to watch in an otherwise increasingly intense-content world. You clearly know what you're talking about but it's your genuine nature that is so attractive. In all my years soaking up TH-cam content, you may the first person I haven't worried will lose their way. Keep doing what you are doing and while your channel may never get huge I sense that's okay with you and that's awesome if I'm right.
Rest in peace to your mate. Thanks for putting out this content. Maybe the passion that he gave you will rub off on more people through these videos. What better way to remember your best friend than by passing on the passion to others? Cheers mate
I had a 30D and 70-200 in the day. Great combo. I’m glad I have more megapixels now. I like your videos because you have useful info and talk like you’re talking to a friend. The casual, positive, realistic you. Being an American, I think you being Australia works well as I relate but our differences add to the flavor of the channel. Also, the fact that your birds aren’t the same as I have local is a plus as well. Great job.
Absolutely agree that gear doesn't make the big difference. The only photo of mine that got published in a (photography) book, was taken with a Canon 1000D and Sigma 18-50 2.8!
One joyous aspect of photography that I'd like to share which I recently started to appreciate is being aware of nature. There are a good amount of forest trails where I live which I love to hike but after getting my telephoto lens I started to stop and appreciate the trail itself. Usually I focused on the walking but now I am very much appreciating nature. And I've gotten more aware of the little aspects within. For some reason I can now spot the yellow eyes of an owl or the red feathers of a woodpecker from the dense tree lines, and I can even hear all the bird calls and smell the earth. It is such a magical feeling. I started out in street photography, so the approach there was always been fast paced, looking for contrasts, faces, compositions, colours, textures, etc like my brain was in overdrive constantly finding a good compositions. Dipping my toes into nature photography, its a whole new world. Its so serene. Its a completely unexplainable feeling. And I'd love to say Thank you Duade. You are one of the reason why I decided to expand my precious little hobby into the wildlife scape, and I am evermore grateful that I came across your channel.
What a great morning in the bush! Your lenses are the same ones I started out with and used for many yrs. In fact, I would even put a 1.4 and 2x TC on the 70-200/2.8 to get more reach. My first camera was the Canon Rebel 350D but the two lenses (70-200 and 400/5.6) were on all the D series cameras to the 7D when the 100-400 replaced them. What a great walk down memory lane. Yep, the lenses hang around while the bodies change. Enjoy your blog. Really enjoyed your post on the F mode. Catherine
I love photography. Just like you...when I am focusing on creating a beautiful picture, my mind is entirely focused. All my daily anxieties, worries are gone. We go into a zone. I started photography about 5 years ago when I finally bought my first DSLR. Now I am out every day the weather is good. As I've grown, I try to capture more dynamic pics now as I am trying to improve my photography. Lots to learn and enjoying this very much. I really enjoy watching your videos. Your joy comes across.
Duade: Great tradition! I think I will do this myself every year with my Canon D5 M3 and EF300mm lens. Nothing beats a great day birding in nature no matter what equipment you have.
Absolutely love your videos, all the way over here in Ontario, Canada. I got started on an old Canon Rebel XS paired with simple kit lenses ( 18-50mm and 55-250mm). Currently got the Canon 90d with the Sigma 150-600mm. I simply do it for a relaxation or release from the stresses of life. I shoot mostly alone but I have made a great friend in my travels and we do often shoot together. Sometimes he comes to my area and other times I go to his ( only about a 30 minute drive). We recently took a guys only photography trip to a well known park ( Algonquin Park, huge park) and spent a few days there just exploring and capturing wildlife, sharing in our passion for the craft. I recently told him about your channel and how it would be a bucklet list dream to spend time shooting with you, doubt that will ever happen but know this Duade, you inspire a lot of people with your page, your content, your knowledge and your passion. Much like your mentor did for you, you are now doing for us and it's greatly appreciated.
One thing I've found satisfying with budget camera gear is that when occasionally it all comes together with an image you get a great sense of achievement - having battled against all the odds ! As you say those Canon lenses give you the edge even if they may be older models. Though you had to edit the shot of the G. W. Egret with the fish was to me the shot of the day. Would have been well pleased to have captured that with my basic gear. Very much like your style of presentation on these videos Duade keep em coming. 👍
I begin capturing images of birds 2 years ago using a Canon Rebel T7+ with 75-300 lens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I recently bought a Sigma 150-600 mm witch I'm using with the same T7 body. The results of this combination realy amazed me! I'm having much fun with this "low budget" equipment!
Duane firstly thank you for the high quality of your videos they are both informative and entertaining I got into wildlife photography after having down days as a result from my service in recent theatres of the Middle East It was my escape somewhere that was my space, maybe a woodland or field sometimes by a river but always just me my camera (gifted canon M50 then a canon 5ds) and my flask of coffee and the friendship of wildlife ,no anger no stress just quiet Your channel helps me as I’m sure it helps many other build confidence in the craft Keep up the fantastic work
Thanks for another great video Duade ,My main reason to be up at 4 each morning is the challengers nature gives,I have spent the last 8 weeks doing my field craft and leaving trail cams in a wooded area, Just to get a data of activity by the Badgers,and now thats done its time to start photographing them,Iv also got 3 Barn owl boxes with 3 pairs busy laying eggs ,so some exciting times ahead,Many Thanks again for what you do from England, happy shooting🦉🦉🦉🦉
Greetings! Was just yesterday out and about looking for wildlife to shoot. I go out to unwind and destress while in nature. I find it exciting to see what i can photograph and if i can match what i saw as a child in nature magazines. Alas birds in my country are timid and flee easily. Also, hope you do a community submission again soon!
Duade I still use my 6 megapixel Pentax *istDL CCD Sensor camera and my Tamron 75-300 zoom lens I bought both new in 2005 and both still work fine and I have photographed wildlife with both with modern editing software it is still a viable camera even though it has 3 focus points and works best in spot focus
Duade, you are one of my favorite TH-cam channel. You are sincere, talented and most of all really good person. I am hobbyist photographer, but not into wildlife photographer (not yet a least). My main hobby is playing golf (now that I am retired I get to play several times a week), also my wife and I love to travel (the pandemic really put a dampen on our travel's) and spending time with our grandkids. Most of my photography are family events, visiting the grandkids and while we travel. I never been to Australia (live in South Florida), but I hear from some of my friends that have been, it's a beautiful country. And very friendly people. I am not getting any younger, so if I plan to visit Australia, I better do it soon. Looking forward to your next video.
Thanks Cesar, I appreciate the feedback and I am happy to hear you enjoy the photos. We have plenty of nice golf courses down here and the bonus is they often have loads of nice birds :-) Cheers, Duade
Wow, what great shots with an older Model camera - Canon 40D. It just proves, its light, subject, and composition and getting out there. I was a little jealous as there seemed to be lots of birds on your visit. I think Nature for me has a great healing quality. When getting out I seem to not dwell and be in the moment. After my wife passed away over 2 1/2 years ago I started to take my Canon Rebel T6 and then purchased a used Canon 6D. I use to drive, camp, and walk in nature when I was younger and I kind of resolved or "escaped" to get out more and the camera kind of came with me after a bit. It seems to ease me somehow, being in the moment when I am looking for birds and taking shots. I am trying to not "hunt" so much and sit and wait and see what bird might come to me. But I tend to be a "walker/shooter" type so will see if it takes. What a great video and a way to honor your mentor doing something you both loved I think your friend Matt would be proud of the progress you have made as a photographer and the great content you provide on this channel. Your enthusiasm is infectious. Cheers
Thanks Bruce, I totally agree and sorry for your loss, photography really is a wonderful way to help our mental health and just experience nature. I'm glad to hear you are enjoying your photography and thanks again for the support, Cheers, Duade
still now I don't have any dslr or mirrorless so to enjoy the wildlife and birding I watch your videos, and it give me joy and make me feel i am in the field through the laptop or mobile
Wow! You have inspired me greatly with this location. I have a special place near my home much like your location which affords me Great Sunrise's. So healing. I hear the cathartic release in your voice as your cameras shutter captures chemical time in your beautiful images. I appreciate you ...
Spiritual Duade! Thank you for reminding me of the awe inspiring moments that are waiting just outside no matter where you live (you're the lucky one see, beautiful country!). Thank you.
I started during lockdown. I used my old 650D which I bought as a student a decade prior for video production. I hadn't used it in years and knew very little about photography, but decided to try and capture my local wildlife here in Manchester UK. I'd always appreciated nature but hadn't paid enough attention to it since I was a kid, so reconnecting through the camera felt really special, and was a great distraction from the horror of what was going on in the world at the time. Wildlife photography quickly filled a creative void I'd always felt was there but never knew how to address. When I realised this I began to pursue it relentlessly. As a newbie I made all the mistakes you'd expect and more, even using manual focus and the flippy screen for the first few shoots because of my video background. Trial and error + some great TH-cam videos (including yours) set me right. It quickly became my favourite thing to do. I love that photography is something I can enjoy wholeheartedly by myself, but I also have a great time chatting to people I meet in the field. Discovering photography gave me a greater sense of purpose and is without a doubt one of the most important things that ever happened to me! Cheers for the video anyway Duade, it's always nice to see some old kit being taken out for a spin. I shoot on the R7 these days, but maybe I'll have to take the 650D out of storage sometime soon...
Thanks for sharing, James, I love your story and I am sure many can relate. I too am incredibly grateful for finding this hobby, I have never been a creative person but find photography suits me to the ground. Cheers, Duade
Your enthusiasm for wildlife has reminded me why I got into photography in the first place, as I got better I just kept piling on the pressure for each image to be a world beater and lost the joy of just getting out there and enjoying it. I started off with a 350d and over the years have upgraded as I improved, I now use an R6 mkii and am loving it, my passion for photography is returning once more. Having been a sufferer of anxiety, depression and chronic head pain for many years I find that I am most content when I am out shooting and it puts my struggles with the real world to one side for a period of time. So thank you for your enthusiasm and knowledge, it helps brighten up a dark day.
"Just having fun" is at the heart of why I go out and shoot as often as possible. Having nice gear is great but some of the best fun I ever had was with a $125 Fuji FinePix S1500 over a dozen years ago. Even with it's limitations, that camera delivered some amazing images that required very little post editing. With it's light weight, I could pack it and several spare batteries for miles with no noticeable fatigue. I think I ran somewhere around 11-12000 shots through that camera before I dropped it and caused something to damage the files every time I reinserted the SD card. It now sit's on display in my Camera Hall of Fame right next to my 1977 model Pentax K1000. Many thanks again for sharing your love of your craft with the world. I could watch these for hours on end!
Oh, right. You have luxury there!! My first dslr is still alive and kicking. 3.2 mp, 3 fps, 1,5" screen. = Canon D30. Their first homegrown model. Got it 23rd dec 2000. Focus check was back at the pc. My glass was horrible. Tamron 200-400 f5.6. Had to stop down to f10 to get it sharp. Now at last I have the Canon 100-400 f4.5-5.6L II. The images are amazing, even on the D30. My "new" camera is the 7d. The difference between the images coming from the two bodies aint that great when the glass is superb. Conclusion: Get good glass over expensive body.
You make photography accessible, most of us can’t afford the luxury of having the best kit. Then you compare your images to the highly polished IG FB photos and can easily get discouraged. You feel like the kid with his face pressed up against the glass looking in the sweet shop. You prove that it’s about the quality of life you gain while aiming to improve your craft of capturing images. Its remarkable that you can bring people together worldwide who may not have that outlet locally. Keep up the great work 🎉
Yesterday morning I was out before dawn the temperature was 23C the wind 12 mph. I managed to stay out for two hours before my hands were so cold I had to go home, why do I do it because it is just me and the wildlife and the sun coming over the horizon and it is a fantastic feeling. Spring is on the way here in Ohio USA and I can’t wait to start all the projects I have planned. I find it interesting that you can approach a pond and what is on there stays there, here everything is gone as soon as you approach. That area must be well visited for the wild life to be used to people. Thanks Duade for the fantastic videos you put out, always fun and contain instructive content.
Hi Duade! I started with the Canon T5i + 18-135 is stm. I bought this combo at their release date. After a little 'pictures trip' I made a CD and ask my best friends if I could bring my CD on their huge TV set at the time. I asked my dear wife and my friends their honnest opinions on my work. They were really impressed at the time and that gave me the confidence I needed to continue wth this new hobby of mine. I decided that I wanted to specialize in insects macro shots. I decide to add the Canon 100mm is L to my T5i. I quickly became better with insects shots. I changed bodies many times. All of my friends are really impressed by these pictures. All my shots have been taken handheld and no tripod. After I made all the macro shots I wanted to do in my life I decided to go full frame and go for wildlfe. Last year I decided to go for mirrorless. It was a tough decision for many reasons. The financial aspect was an important one for sure but one of the most important one was the satisfaction I got shooting with the 5D4. This camera has been my favorite camera of all time. I knew it by hearth and was never disappointed by it. As soon as I took a shot as I pressed the shutter I knew exactly the result. This camera was a tank and the sensor was beautiful. Now I am with the R5 and the RF 100-500mm. I can't wait to have the super upcoming firmware upgrade. I am amaze by all the firmares released by Canon for this camera and I thank them for what they give us for this camera that might become my best ever with this new firmware. You know Duade I live by a lake and we have public trails all around the lake. When I go out with my camera my hearth is filled with peace of mind, joy, expectations and a deep appreciation for God's creation !
A great venue and great pictures. I enjoy getting out because you leave the world behind and enjoy nature. Seeing a new species is always a buzz and I enjoy the whole process of seeing the Bird, photographing it, editing it and then putting it on the web. If I get a like or a comment it makes it all worth while.
Every video you make radiates your genuine love and enthusiasm, and I suspect this is responsible in part for all your viewers and subscribers. This video, for example, just made me happy that there is another person on Earth who appreciates nature as much as I do. You inspire me to go out and take some photos. The other part that make many of us stay, I believe, are your photos, and it's a nice touch that we get to see a kind of "before and after". And your already good photos become even better, when we know they come from your love of nature and wildlife photography. So thank you for this wonderful channel, and thank you for sharing your love and enthusiasm! You make the world a better place through them.
Thank you for such kind words and I appreciate the feedback, I am glad my passion comes through in the videos, I do have a lot of fun whilst out there. Cheers, Duade
Morning Duade, I hope you're well. I have been trying to be a wildlife photography for a while now but I've never been consistent. That's the problem when you have so many hobbies I guess. I might have to start a roster. Anyway, the main attraction of wildlife photography for me is just being out in nature. I don't know the name of every creature I see and it's great to get home and do some research too. In all honesty, getting a nice shot of a bird or an animal is an added bonus and doesn't beat actually being present with the animal or bird (in my opinion). Keep up the awesome work. All the best.
Thanks mate, well said and yes, having lots of hobbies is a good thing but finding time for them all a challenge. My wife often wants me to spend more time on Landscape Photography but the birds is always my first instinct and joy. Cheers, Duade
Perfect! it's just the inspiration I needed. It's 4:30 in the morning here and I'm having my first cup of tea trying to get inspired to go do something with my camera.
I love videos like this, because they inspire others. 😌 Those old Canons have very nice sensors. Last year, a friend of mine let me borrow a beat-up Canon D60 he was given years ago (yeah, not the 60D) and I took some of my best shots on that camera even with it having a moldy sensor and cheap lenses. The colors were filmic and the RAW files had lots of flexibility. Some vintage filter tweaks on Snapseed afterwards and the results left me so impressed. I'm coming from a Canon 5SD R and Sony a7R II, and that old D60 made me feel more things that those much newer full-frame cameras.
Thanks for the work that went into another upload, Duade! Some great shots again, & I especially appreciated the crake & rail shots. In areas of the US where I have seen rails, the are quite secretive & I've never had a shot opportunity. One thing I often think of in your "40D videos" is that the 40D, while quite inexpensive now, was not when it was new. I think it was around $1300 US or so, making it far from budget at the time. I only mention that so as to say, it is not surprising to me whatsoever that a camera of that caliber can still take great shots. The photographer, of course, makes all the difference, & you have used that kit very well over the yrs. Again, I thought it was very thoughtful of you to remember the contribution that your good friend made to your passion & its profound impact on your life. Always a plus to accentuate the positive forces we experience. As far as the bird/wildlife photo drive, I had parts of it from my youth. My father raised game birds (quail, pheasants & partridges) when I was small & I was fascinated with all things wild. There's a snapshot of me @ 3-4 leaning over a Calif. Quail that my father was holding, just inches away... staring. Photography became an interest by my teens as a way to prolong those moments outdoors & have a tangible image to remind me of those experiences. Today, it is much the same - I thoroughly enjoy snatching a moment from the river of time & freezing it, to be relived (at least mentally) whenever the mood may strike. Those moments we share with the wild, however fleeting, are a priceless commodity to someone like myself. Thanks again for the continued value you add to the world, Duade & may the start of the Autumn season be good to your photographic endeavors! Best regards ~ Chris
Thanks for the comment, Chris, I appreciate the feedback and yes, the 40D was very nice when it first came out. Great to hear you have had an interest in birds for a long time and you still have that drive. Happy birding, Cheers, Duade
I started with an elan2 film body with the 28-135 is lens. I started taking pictures of commercial aircraft at the airport. I use to make notes of exposures and would have to wait for film to be developed and printed to see how the exposures were. It was a long process but was able to take community night school programs to help learn. With modern digital cameras and TH-cam channels such as yours it sure helps the learning process. I now shoot wildlife (mainly birds) and landscapes. For me it’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle from the other part of life. I just love photography and every chance I get I’m out there. All the best Duade.
I got started with a Canon SX50 bridge camera (1200mm equivalent!!) which got me hooked, and then my first DSLR bird photography setup was a Canon SL1 with a Sigma 120-400 lens. I kind of dropped bird photography for a while because I was busy with other things, but recently decided to to get back into it and just picked up a Sigma 150-600 Contemporary to use with my Canon R6 and 90D. I found your channel from your videos on using that lens with the Canon mirrorless bodies and have really been enjoying your videos! I think you've become my favorite bird photographers on TH-cam in the about a week since I found your channel. I think part of why I (and I presume others) enjoy these videos is because your enthusiasm and excitement about bird photography are just contagious! really resonate with what you said about "flow state" in bird photography. My favorite part about it is the experience of being absorbed in shooting the photos and working with the birds.
It is always a pleasure to watch your youtube videos. In 2006 I got my first digital Canon camera 350d with 70-300m f4 later 40d and now 7dmk ll. With this camera I have taken +300000 pictures still work fine. Bird photography is often difficult but when you succeed it is always worth all the hours in the field and at the same time it is good for your soul
You killed it with this one, Duane! Great video all around. You touched on the entire human condition in a simple video about spending a few hours with birds.
You got me motivated to take my 50D and seldom used Tokina 400mm- 5.6 ATX out this weekend before dawn. Something I haven't done in ages and miss doing. Thanks for motivating me.
There's no better way to Honour your mentor/friend Matt, other than to go out into the Wildlife and shoot. Now coming to your 40D I'm really really astonished that how good the Canon 40D can be like really, it's almost 16 years old at this point or rather I must say 16 years new. ❤
Loved the egret shot and the peregrine falcon. If I am walking very far I take my Fuji XT2 and 70-300mm lens with a 1.4 tc. Have captured sone of my favourites down at Cranbourne Botanic Gardens. Though the elusive Splendid Fairy Wren is the one bird that I have yet to get a good shot of. So fast & so smalll.
I had a film camera back in the day but it was only when we planned a trip to see my Dad in America back in 2011 that I wanted to buy a camera to capture the holiday. I bought a Fuji HS20 but soon wanted a better camera, moved to a Canon 600D, to a 7D Mk 2, and now a R5. I didn’t start with birding and nature but soon found it to be the genre that captured the spirit. Watching Red Kites and hearing the birds during lockdown in the UK. I prefer the taking of images and find the editing a chore, that’s not the important part for me, I prefer being in nature. I don’t do social media apart from watching TH-cam. I’m colour blind so maybe the confidence to edit is not there. You channel Duade is simply brilliant, this video sums up it all. The excitement and passion shown is so infectious, I’m sure it feeds onto everyone of your viewers. Keep up the great work Duade.
Thank you, Duade. I've been a fan of your work, including the videos, for several years. This was fun and informative to watch. I had to smile when you mentioned you were having fun shooting photos with an "old body." I've been having fun with mine, now, for almost 70 years. That's pretty old, but I enjoy every moment, even though I'm shooting with an old body of my own! 😉
Its fun to challenge yourself sometimes with older gear. It reminds us of how reliant we have become on new technology and helps to re-hone our skills.
I got into it initially because I was going through depression. But going outside had been something I enjoyed as a kid and suppressed in college and partly in HS. But once I got really going years later, it was to get people to appreciate what's around them and their role on this planet from birds to bugs to reptiles. I've been rolling with an EM-1 MKII and some good glass. Now, it's just a joy to share what I see with people.
Thanks for sharing - I started birding maybe 10 months ago with a $200 bridge camera (Canon Powershot sx50). Not many features, really small sensor but that’s exactly what I needed to learn the basics of photography and incidentally took some really nice photos by accident too! The 1200m optical zoom was mind blowing for a camera weight 500 grams. I’m a university student with no car, so I get around with public transport and bicycle to wherever I can bird. I’m definitely sticking to light and cheap bridge cameras since I don’t have the money to afford too-of-the-line kit nor a car to help carry heavy gear. I really appreciate videos like this which shows that birding doesn’t strictly have to be for people with lots of money. I think it would be great if you gave some bridge cameras a try too! I do wish there were more TH-camrs like me, as I think that would get a lot more ordinary people into birdwatching.
I think your videos make us feel like we're right there with you. What a great place to take photographs of birds. It would be very rare for me to see that many birds on a single outing but my first birding experience was like that and the chance that such an encounter might happen again keeps bringing me back out. The solitude and the exercise are a nice bonus.
Thanks Bruce, yes, this was pretty rare for me at this location also. Like you say sometimes it just happens and you have to make the most of it. Cheers, Duade
Why do I love bird photography? I love seeing the amazing complexity, beauty, and interrelatedness of it all. It's a religious experience for me. I get to observe at close range the creative power of God. I have seen things in my months of bird photography that I never saw (although they were always all around me) in my previous 60+ years. There is almost always a new revelation waiting around the bend!
Well I really enjoy your videos, educational and just so enjoyable. I am a high school sport photographer who provides the kids with banners, senior portraits and sport action shots which I love. Watching you lie down by a pond gives me shivers. Here in central Florida, if I were to lie down by a marsh or pond, a 10ft alligator might want to either mate or devour me, neither is a pleasant thought. Best regards and I look forward to catching the next episode...Ted
Just found your videos online somehow and I am loving it. Your video reminds me of how much fun I had in the beginning learning and going after good light/subjects.. now I have more gear than time and passion, but your video is rekindling that joy. Thank you for sharing and I might even try bird photography.. I’ve had a great fun with birds before, but I never had bigger than 300mm.. and mosquitoes here are vicious… Can’t believe you are so clean after lying down in mud for much. You might have video about wardrobe(non-camera equipment).
Thanks, great to hear you are enjoying the videos. The ground next to the water is hard and dry so don't get too muddy. Yes mozzies can be annoying, thankfully we don't get too many here, especially in summer. Have fun out there. Cheers, Duade 👍
I know the feeling, still have my 550D with the 70-200 f4 non-IS. Buffer is 7 RAWs so I have to burst very carefully. :) Still got many beautiful shots. Now my son is learning photography with it.
Your eye for the motif is the decisive factor. Not the equipment. State-of-the-art technology does not automatically produce better pictures. Well done.👍 Thx
Hi, thanks for sharing! I loved your video and thoughts. And what a great way to honor your mentor and friend. I started bird photography during time in my live when i was struggling with work. I gave and still gives my just what I need to get away from the stress and get some rest in my head. Just love doing it.
Years a ago when I first started out I wasn't thinking I would ever get into wildlife photography. My first camera was a Canon A40 took some good shots with it then it was time to move up to real Gear.
FUN is sooo important, at the same time these pictures still have great quality in them. To me, that is a testament to your dedication to get up early, and your skills in the field to know the area and spot animals.
My first real DSLR was the Canon 40D, and it is long gone from my arsenal, but it’s a camera I miss. I paired it with a first generation Canon 100-400 L. The lens I still own. Still sharp. Thank you for reminding us to blow the dust off our old equipment, and having a go at it.
![โรงเรียนตอนตี 2 โคตรหลอน..!! [โรงเรียนไดเม่]](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/2MAEMwqVYh8/mqdefault.jpg)
My guess is that the videos are popular because you are humble, enthusiastic, helpful, and honest about the good and the bad. I appreciate seeing the RAW files, and the stunning processed results. Good job.
Thanks, you are too kind, I am glad you enjoy the Raw to processed image, a very important part of the process. Cheers, Duade
Very well said and I concur.
The chatter these days is burst rates, ISO, megapixels, dynamic range, buffer rates, full frame, apsc, auto focus, eye tracking and the mind numbing list goes on and on. We don't speak of motivation, inspiration, composition, purpose, storytelling, artistic intent, interpretation. Photography has suffered so much because of the focus on the latest and the greatest. Thank you for this, it is very necessary to see your infectious enthusiasm. Enjoying the process without regard for outdated gear.
I take photos for my self-happiness. Maybe it won't be good photos to others, but for me, it gives happiness in my mind.
It’s an extremely difficult time for me now so when I saw you’d posted a new video, I knew my day would be better. I was not disappointed. The reason I love your videos is because the joy you find in nature photography is infectious. And just like your dear friend, Matt, you give to others both your joy and knowledge. You honor your late friend and have inspired and touched me, once again. Thank you, sir.
Thanks Mark, I am happy you enjoy my videos and they are helping you. Sorry to hear you are going through a difficult time. Yes, Matt was a wonderful friend and inspiration and would have loved this session. Cheers, Duade
What a way to honour your mate Matt’s memory. You’re inspiring thousands in this blissful hobby with your infectious love of wildlife. I’m sure he’d be chuffed ❤
Thank you kindly
If you had posted these pictures without telling us what camera you used, I doubt anyone would have figured it out! Incredible!!
Thank you, yes, that would have been fun, Cheers, Duade
And yet you have an array of YTTOGS trying to upsell you LR , Anti noise programs , uber expensive gear .
I shot streets for many decades but only lately I’m into birds. Each time I go out, like street…..I push myself in the way I compose or “see” the bird. Being a beginner it’s fascinating to notice behaviours of different type of birds. Sometimes after the first edit I’ll take a second look and see somthing I didn’t notice before, very cool.
Thanks William, great attitude and noticing behaviour is key for sure. Cheers, Duade
"Where else would you rather be?"
Legendary quote.
I honestly can't remember what started it for me originally. It might have been the native birds visiting our back patio for food.
Thanks David, yes, funny how we catch the bug, Cheers, Duade
@@Duade it sure is.
The enjoyment comes from discovery and surprise. I took 500 shots the other day out walking. The last few of a male kestrel trying to impress a female with it's display of hunting skills was pure icing on the cake.
All done on a budget ! Just goes to show!
I photographed with a canon 7D. Very good kamera for under 200$ I highly recommended this camera for beginners or people with a low budget.
Thanks Jan, totally agree, I used it for years and got wonderful photos. Cheers, Duade
I have become addicted to birding so nice to get out in nature and allows me to concentrate on improving my photography 📸
I love the fact that we are recording the history and the pure enjoyment of the art of Photography
I bought a Canon t4i in 2008 with some kit lenses to document my grandkids growing up. I soon learned that living on the lake gave me access to a lot of birds and other wildlife. Spent the cash for a 100-400 L series and got hooked on birding. That’s what I still shoot with for kid’s sports and everything. Strictly amateur but it brings me great joy as do your videos. I love your enthusiasm.
Duade, for so many of us who want to pursue this hobby and have the hardware to do so but not enough time or inspiration to go out, you do a brilliant job of capturing why we should. Just pure passion, simplicity and love for nature. Absolutely adore your work, please never stop so we don't either.
I like the peace and quiet of the early morning. Right now, all I have is a cellphone and a spotting scope for my wildlife photography it takes good shots, but the foucusibg and other setting are hard to mess with and still get the shot.
Thanks Jamie, that fact you are out and about in nature is great and I get a lot of joy from that. Cheers, Duade
Can't be as bad as trying to use a cellphone to take a photo of an object in a stereo microscope...
I started wildlife photography because of my grandfather, he had the late 90s and early 2000s DSLRs for years and taught me how to use a camera, he later gifted me a Canon Rebel EOS and an EF 100-300 5.6L as a graduation gift which at the time it was already a 6 or 7 year old camera and 15 year old lens but the message was "its less about the camera and more about the lens and the user I used that thing till 2019 when it hit 120k shutter count and quit working, now it sits in my collection as a reminder for my 1st good quality camera now I use the T7 and have a T3 as a back up for landscape and close ups.
Thanks for sharing your story and what a wonderful way to get into photography, I totally agree with what you have said, I am surprised my 40D is still going strong all these years later. Cheers, Duade
@@Duade how many photos have you taken with the 40D? I really like how a lot of the low light photos came out so you have sold me on an older DSLR again.
Sorry for the late reply, I missed your reply, I have had the camera for 14 years I think and taken loads of shots with it. Its max ISO is 1600 I think which limits its low light abilities, and being such a small old sensor it does not match the newer models. But it does very well for the cost. Cheers, Duade@@David_Quinn_Photography
My first film camera was the Pentax K1000 in 1986, then first digital was Canon 5D mkI. Think it was 12mp, full frame, 9 AF points. The salesman said it would be the only digital camera I’d need as it was so advanced. Lol. That didn’t turn out to be true but was an amazing camera. Sold it when I bought the mk II. Then the mk III now on R5C.
The tree of all those Egrets is incredible! You have really helped me improve my photos this last year with the blinkies video. Thank you!
My pleasure Lorraine, glad it helped, Cheers, Duade
Glad that you had a great time! Nice shots with those oldies but goodies.
Thanks Kevin, yes, it was a lot of fun, Cheers, Duade
Big thanks to you, man! You seem so happy and make me happy too! Thanks! Love your videos, I started shooting 3 months ago after your videos
Landscape for me. But after years of commercial photography I enjoy the tranquillity and being alone. Like you I take my old trusty d80 out of the bag but it has just passed.
I started with film/slide on an EOS 5/A2e and the Canon EF 75-300 IS trying to photograph a relatively small bird (probably a Sanderling) in the Palmforest lagoon in southern Crete in 2002. It was just after sunset and I was using a polarizer to minimize the reflections and I didn't have enough light/speed to freeze the bird that had the habit of walking around the lagoon rather than stay stationary at one spot long enough for me to photograph. Those days everything was manual more or less and 3 fps max. Plus, I wasn't shooting at eye level. In short it didn’t work out, and when the prints came back I said: 'I must do better'. Until then I was doing mainly landscape and travel photography, and the occasional portrait. This set me on the path for to bird and wildlife photography trajectory and it took me many years to put a decent kit together. I appreciate today the 40D+EF400 are at a bargain price but when they first came out they were prohibitively expensive for me. So my next iteration was the 450D+75-300 which was great but slow and not enough reach. Then I got the EF 100-400 II IS (still using the 450 body) and I thought I was the king of the hill. Until I tried to focus in early morning fog (everything was grey) trying to photograph wales and it wouldn't focus, so I moved to the 7DII. This combo was mind blowing for stationary wildlife but for moving wildlife the AF would often let me down; esp. when using the 1.4x - cause I wanted more reach. And IQ wasn't that great to be honest. Then I got a 300 f/2.8 still with my 7DII using 1.4x and 2x. Which I still found slow for moving subjects, AF would be hit and miss which would frustrate me to no end - and I did had the whole combo calibrated by Canon. Eventually I migrated to the R5 and this year traded my 300 for a 500 f/4. Most of my gear I got to solve a particular problem I encountered in a particular situation in the field. Most of my gear I got a couple of years after the product was launched (so to have reviews and tests, prices to go down) and often towards the end of a model's life when on sale so at least a generation behind of what each time was the equivalent latest and greatest.
Your video shows us so well, that it's not the gear wich takes the good pictures - but the person behind. A lot of photograpers buys the newest gear and never learn how to use it ;-)
Thanks Svend, yes, gear helps but you have to know how to make the most of it. Cheers, Duade
It's the location and the light in real terms, the areas that Duade has access to are so miraculously amazing for bird photography, wild but by a road, free from other people, stunning light from an Australian dawn and birds that are not so afraid of people that they fly away instantly. It never ceases to amaze me how lucky he is to have free access to these areas and species, it's the one thing I reflect upon the most when I watch his videos.
Of course one can get amazing photographs with such access with birds so close you can use 200mm and the free ability to choose your angle. When your birds are more skittish and your light not so reliable then having longer faster lenses and bodies able to cope with higher ISOs and shoot faster fill in some of the gaps allowing you to make the most of the rarer opportunities you get.
It's not easy in other parts of the world, areas where exciting impressive species are present, not too skittish and you can legally get right down to the waters edge without disturbing the birds are rare in the UK for instance, they exist but you might need special access (be a warden on a reserve, or have permission from a landowner etc) Public reserves have hides that give poor angles and are often badly placed in terms of light direction, sometimes they don't even open until the good light is gone and the pools are fenced off, all for good reasons, but it does make things more difficult, weeping for the lost wild areas in the UK is something you do more frequently once you start getting in to wildlife.
Duade is a passionate and skilled bird photographer but he is so lucky to have access to the places he does and yes scouting and finding these locations is a skill as well, but I would kill for access to somewhere like the wetlands that Duade seems to favour. Perhaps an vid focussing on this special place would be enlightening.
The best thing about this video is the pure joy of photography without obsession of the latest and greatest gear. Thank you for the inspiration and your joy is so genuine and contagious. The reason I do it is for the love of nature and the animals that I photograph. I have more trust in them than I do in humans.
Couldn't agree more!
Great fun with the old camera. Shows you are a master with whatever camera you use
Thanks Laurel, you are too kind, Cheers, Duade
As a beginner in wildlife photography myself, I think it's fantastic you share pretty much everything, even when things don't really work out too well (6:39). It just helps to be reminded that you don't nail every shot, even with years or decades of experience.
You mentioned it, the Flow State. There's something about going out into nature that makes me feel like I am 7 years old again and getting ready to go out on an adventure. Time just slips away and all I'm focused on is trying to relive that same "flow" energy that as a child, it made everything full of wonder.
Really love that you're showing the raw file then the edit!
I have found that landscape and wildlife photography do the the exact same thing for me really. It's all about getting out, away from people, and engulfed in a world where I am the minority. That's humbling to me. I watch wildlife photography videos and landscape photography videos and have never consciously differentiated between the two. They're the same to me. It's really the personality behind the information and experience. So Duade, if you read this, I think people tune it to watch you because you are genuine first. You are relaxing to watch in an otherwise increasingly intense-content world. You clearly know what you're talking about but it's your genuine nature that is so attractive. In all my years soaking up TH-cam content, you may the first person I haven't worried will lose their way. Keep doing what you are doing and while your channel may never get huge I sense that's okay with you and that's awesome if I'm right.
Rest in peace to your mate. Thanks for putting out this content. Maybe the passion that he gave you will rub off on more people through these videos. What better way to remember your best friend than by passing on the passion to others? Cheers mate
Thanks for the comment, and I can only hope I help others get the passion Matt gave to me. Cheers, Duade
Had the 10D whenit first came out. Waited a few years and then the 40D came out. Bought one and loved it.
Great to hear Garry, yes, the 40D has a lot of good features such as the joystick, good FPS and the quality is pretty good. Cheers, Duade
I had a 30D and 70-200 in the day. Great combo. I’m glad I have more megapixels now.
I like your videos because you have useful info and talk like you’re talking to a friend. The casual, positive, realistic you. Being an American, I think you being Australia works well as I relate but our differences add to the flavor of the channel. Also, the fact that your birds aren’t the same as I have local is a plus as well. Great job.
Great to hear!
Absolutely agree that gear doesn't make the big difference. The only photo of mine that got published in a (photography) book, was taken with a Canon 1000D and Sigma 18-50 2.8!
One joyous aspect of photography that I'd like to share which I recently started to appreciate is being aware of nature. There are a good amount of forest trails where I live which I love to hike but after getting my telephoto lens I started to stop and appreciate the trail itself. Usually I focused on the walking but now I am very much appreciating nature. And I've gotten more aware of the little aspects within. For some reason I can now spot the yellow eyes of an owl or the red feathers of a woodpecker from the dense tree lines, and I can even hear all the bird calls and smell the earth. It is such a magical feeling.
I started out in street photography, so the approach there was always been fast paced, looking for contrasts, faces, compositions, colours, textures, etc like my brain was in overdrive constantly finding a good compositions.
Dipping my toes into nature photography, its a whole new world. Its so serene. Its a completely unexplainable feeling.
And I'd love to say Thank you Duade. You are one of the reason why I decided to expand my precious little hobby into the wildlife scape, and I am evermore grateful that I came across your channel.
What a great morning in the bush! Your lenses are the same ones I started out with and used for many yrs. In fact, I would even put a 1.4 and 2x TC on the 70-200/2.8 to get more reach. My first camera was the Canon Rebel 350D but the two lenses (70-200 and 400/5.6) were on all the D series cameras to the 7D when the 100-400 replaced them. What a great walk down memory lane. Yep, the lenses hang around while the bodies change. Enjoy your blog. Really enjoyed your post on the F mode.
Catherine
Thanks Catherine, great to hear you used the same lenses and enjoyed the video. Cheers, Duade
I love photography. Just like you...when I am focusing on creating a beautiful picture, my mind is entirely focused. All my daily anxieties, worries are gone. We go into a zone. I started photography about 5 years ago when I finally bought my first DSLR. Now I am out every day the weather is good. As I've grown, I try to capture more dynamic pics now as I am trying to improve my photography. Lots to learn and enjoying this very much. I really enjoy watching your videos. Your joy comes across.
Duade: Great tradition! I think I will do this myself every year with my Canon D5 M3 and EF300mm lens. Nothing beats a great day birding in nature no matter what equipment you have.
Absolutely love your videos, all the way over here in Ontario, Canada. I got started on an old Canon Rebel XS paired with simple kit lenses ( 18-50mm and 55-250mm). Currently got the Canon 90d with the Sigma 150-600mm. I simply do it for a relaxation or release from the stresses of life. I shoot mostly alone but I have made a great friend in my travels and we do often shoot together. Sometimes he comes to my area and other times I go to his ( only about a 30 minute drive). We recently took a guys only photography trip to a well known park ( Algonquin Park, huge park) and spent a few days there just exploring and capturing wildlife, sharing in our passion for the craft. I recently told him about your channel and how it would be a bucklet list dream to spend time shooting with you, doubt that will ever happen but know this Duade, you inspire a lot of people with your page, your content, your knowledge and your passion. Much like your mentor did for you, you are now doing for us and it's greatly appreciated.
One thing I've found satisfying with budget camera gear is that when occasionally it all comes together with an image you get a great sense of achievement - having battled against all the odds ! As you say those Canon lenses give you the edge even if they may be older models. Though you had to edit the shot of the G. W. Egret with the fish was to me the shot of the day. Would have been well pleased to have captured that with my basic gear. Very much like your style of presentation on these videos Duade keep em coming. 👍
I begin capturing images of birds 2 years ago using a Canon Rebel T7+ with 75-300 lens in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil. I recently bought a Sigma 150-600 mm witch I'm using with the same T7 body. The results of this combination realy amazed me! I'm having much fun with this "low budget" equipment!
Duane firstly thank you for the high quality of your videos they are both informative and entertaining
I got into wildlife photography after having down days as a result from my service in recent theatres of the Middle East
It was my escape somewhere that was my space, maybe a woodland or field sometimes by a river but always just me my camera (gifted canon M50 then a canon 5ds) and my flask of coffee and the friendship of wildlife ,no anger no stress just quiet
Your channel helps me as I’m sure it helps many other build confidence in the craft
Keep up the fantastic work
I think people enjoy your videos because you're spontaneous, simple and lively like a baby with the first toy! Simply great!
Thanks Ivan, yes, that is a good way to put it, Cheers, Duade
Thanks for another great video Duade ,My main reason to be up at 4 each morning is the challengers nature gives,I have spent the last 8 weeks doing my field craft and leaving trail cams in a wooded area, Just to get a data of activity by the Badgers,and now thats done its time to start photographing them,Iv also got 3 Barn owl boxes with 3 pairs busy laying eggs ,so some exciting times ahead,Many Thanks again for what you do from England, happy shooting🦉🦉🦉🦉
Sounds fantastic, good preparation will reap good rewards, have fun with the times ahead. Cheers, Duade
Greetings! Was just yesterday out and about looking for wildlife to shoot. I go out to unwind and destress while in nature. I find it exciting to see what i can photograph and if i can match what i saw as a child in nature magazines. Alas birds in my country are timid and flee easily.
Also, hope you do a community submission again soon!
Duade
I still use my 6 megapixel Pentax *istDL CCD Sensor camera and my Tamron 75-300 zoom lens I bought both new in 2005 and both still work fine and I have photographed wildlife with both with modern editing software it is still a viable camera even though it has 3 focus points and works best in spot focus
Duade, you are one of my favorite TH-cam channel. You are sincere, talented and most of all really good person. I am hobbyist photographer, but not into wildlife photographer (not yet a least). My main hobby is playing golf (now that I am retired I get to play several times a week), also my wife and I love to travel (the pandemic really put a dampen on our travel's) and spending time with our grandkids. Most of my photography are family events, visiting the grandkids and while we travel. I never been to Australia (live in South Florida), but I hear from some of my friends that have been, it's a beautiful country. And very friendly people. I am not getting any younger, so if I plan to visit Australia, I better do it soon. Looking forward to your next video.
Thanks Cesar, I appreciate the feedback and I am happy to hear you enjoy the photos. We have plenty of nice golf courses down here and the bonus is they often have loads of nice birds :-) Cheers, Duade
Wow, what great shots with an older Model camera - Canon 40D. It just proves, its light, subject, and composition and getting out there. I was a little jealous as there seemed to be lots of birds on your visit.
I think Nature for me has a great healing quality. When getting out I seem to not dwell and be in the moment. After my wife passed away over 2 1/2 years ago I started to take my Canon Rebel T6 and then purchased a used Canon 6D. I use to drive, camp, and walk in nature when I was younger and I kind of resolved or "escaped" to get out more and the camera kind of came with me after a bit. It seems to ease me somehow, being in the moment when I am looking for birds and taking shots.
I am trying to not "hunt" so much and sit and wait and see what bird might come to me. But I tend to be a "walker/shooter" type so will see if it takes.
What a great video and a way to honor your mentor doing something you both loved I think your friend Matt would be proud of the progress you have made as a photographer and the great content you provide on this channel. Your enthusiasm is infectious. Cheers
Thanks Bruce, I totally agree and sorry for your loss, photography really is a wonderful way to help our mental health and just experience nature. I'm glad to hear you are enjoying your photography and thanks again for the support, Cheers, Duade
still now I don't have any dslr or mirrorless so to enjoy the wildlife and birding I watch your videos, and it give me joy and make me feel i am in the field through the laptop or mobile
Wow! You have inspired me greatly with this location. I have a special place near my home much like your location which affords me Great Sunrise's. So healing. I hear the cathartic release in your voice as your cameras shutter captures chemical time in your beautiful images. I appreciate you ...
Spiritual Duade! Thank you for reminding me of the awe inspiring moments that are waiting just outside no matter where you live (you're the lucky one see, beautiful country!). Thank you.
Your enthusiasm is infectious! Very entertaining!
You’re the reason I got a Canon 40d as my first camera. Even tho I’ve upgraded my favorite pictures are still the ones on my 40d.
I started during lockdown. I used my old 650D which I bought as a student a decade prior for video production. I hadn't used it in years and knew very little about photography, but decided to try and capture my local wildlife here in Manchester UK. I'd always appreciated nature but hadn't paid enough attention to it since I was a kid, so reconnecting through the camera felt really special, and was a great distraction from the horror of what was going on in the world at the time. Wildlife photography quickly filled a creative void I'd always felt was there but never knew how to address. When I realised this I began to pursue it relentlessly. As a newbie I made all the mistakes you'd expect and more, even using manual focus and the flippy screen for the first few shoots because of my video background. Trial and error + some great TH-cam videos (including yours) set me right. It quickly became my favourite thing to do. I love that photography is something I can enjoy wholeheartedly by myself, but I also have a great time chatting to people I meet in the field. Discovering photography gave me a greater sense of purpose and is without a doubt one of the most important things that ever happened to me! Cheers for the video anyway Duade, it's always nice to see some old kit being taken out for a spin. I shoot on the R7 these days, but maybe I'll have to take the 650D out of storage sometime soon...
Thanks for sharing, James, I love your story and I am sure many can relate. I too am incredibly grateful for finding this hobby, I have never been a creative person but find photography suits me to the ground. Cheers, Duade
My pro photographer friend back a long time ago, did feature articles and magazine covers with an 8MP Canon!
Yes, it is amazing how far we have come but shows how good these cameras were at the time and still do well. Cheers, Duade
You are so lucky to live where you live. You have birds and other animals that we here in Canada don't have. Thanks so much for your awesome videos
Your enthusiasm for wildlife has reminded me why I got into photography in the first place, as I got better I just kept piling on the pressure for each image to be a world beater and lost the joy of just getting out there and enjoying it. I started off with a 350d and over the years have upgraded as I improved, I now use an R6 mkii and am loving it, my passion for photography is returning once more. Having been a sufferer of anxiety, depression and chronic head pain for many years I find that I am most content when I am out shooting and it puts my struggles with the real world to one side for a period of time. So thank you for your enthusiasm and knowledge, it helps brighten up a dark day.
"Just having fun" is at the heart of why I go out and shoot as often as possible. Having nice gear is great but some of the best fun I ever had was with a $125 Fuji FinePix S1500 over a dozen years ago. Even with it's limitations, that camera delivered some amazing images that required very little post editing. With it's light weight, I could pack it and several spare batteries for miles with no noticeable fatigue. I think I ran somewhere around 11-12000 shots through that camera before I dropped it and caused something to damage the files every time I reinserted the SD card. It now sit's on display in my Camera Hall of Fame right next to my 1977 model Pentax K1000. Many thanks again for sharing your love of your craft with the world. I could watch these for hours on end!
Thanks mate, yes, I love being out there just having fun, which is what it is all about. Cheers, Duade
The location was superb as the photos turn out to be. Nice for night photography.
Oh, right. You have luxury there!! My first dslr is still alive and kicking. 3.2 mp, 3 fps, 1,5" screen. = Canon D30. Their first homegrown model. Got it 23rd dec 2000. Focus check was back at the pc. My glass was horrible. Tamron 200-400 f5.6. Had to stop down to f10 to get it sharp.
Now at last I have the Canon 100-400 f4.5-5.6L II. The images are amazing, even on the D30. My "new" camera is the 7d. The difference between the images coming from the two bodies aint that great when the glass is superb.
Conclusion: Get good glass over expensive body.
You make photography accessible, most of us can’t afford the luxury of having the best kit. Then you compare your images to the highly polished IG FB photos and can easily get discouraged. You feel like the kid with his face pressed up against the glass looking in the sweet shop. You prove that it’s about the quality of life you gain while aiming to improve your craft of capturing images. Its remarkable that you can bring people together worldwide who may not have that outlet locally. Keep up the great work 🎉
Yesterday morning I was out before dawn the temperature was 23C the wind 12 mph. I managed to stay out for two hours before my hands were so cold I had to go home, why do I do it because it is just me and the wildlife and the sun coming over the horizon and it is a fantastic feeling. Spring is on the way here in Ohio USA and I can’t wait to start all the projects I have planned.
I find it interesting that you can approach a pond and what is on there stays there, here everything is gone as soon as you approach. That area must be well visited for the wild life to be used to people.
Thanks Duade for the fantastic videos you put out, always fun and contain instructive content.
Hi Duade! I started with the Canon T5i + 18-135 is stm. I bought this combo at their release date. After a little 'pictures trip' I made a CD and ask my best friends if I could bring my CD on their huge TV set at the time. I asked my dear wife and my friends their honnest opinions on my work. They were really impressed at the time and that gave me the confidence I needed to continue wth this new hobby of mine. I decided that I wanted to specialize in insects macro shots. I decide to add the Canon 100mm is L to my T5i. I quickly became better with insects shots. I changed bodies many times. All of my friends are really impressed by these pictures. All my shots have been taken handheld and no tripod. After I made all the macro shots I wanted to do in my life I decided to go full frame and go for wildlfe. Last year I decided to go for mirrorless. It was a tough decision for many reasons. The financial aspect was an important one for sure but one of the most important one was the satisfaction I got shooting with the 5D4. This camera has been my favorite camera of all time. I knew it by hearth and was never disappointed by it. As soon as I took a shot as I pressed the shutter I knew exactly the result. This camera was a tank and the sensor was beautiful. Now I am with the R5 and the RF 100-500mm. I can't wait to have the super upcoming firmware upgrade. I am amaze by all the firmares released by Canon for this camera and I thank them for what they give us for this camera that might become my best ever with this new firmware. You know Duade I live by a lake and we have public trails all around the lake. When I go out with my camera my hearth is filled with peace of mind, joy, expectations and a deep appreciation for God's creation !
A great venue and great pictures. I enjoy getting out because you leave the world behind and enjoy nature. Seeing a new species is always a buzz and I enjoy the whole process of seeing the Bird, photographing it, editing it and then putting it on the web. If I get a like or a comment it makes it all worth while.
Every video you make radiates your genuine love and enthusiasm, and I suspect this is responsible in part for all your viewers and subscribers. This video, for example, just made me happy that there is another person on Earth who appreciates nature as much as I do. You inspire me to go out and take some photos.
The other part that make many of us stay, I believe, are your photos, and it's a nice touch that we get to see a kind of "before and after". And your already good photos become even better, when we know they come from your love of nature and wildlife photography.
So thank you for this wonderful channel, and thank you for sharing your love and enthusiasm! You make the world a better place through them.
Thank you for such kind words and I appreciate the feedback, I am glad my passion comes through in the videos, I do have a lot of fun whilst out there. Cheers, Duade
Morning Duade, I hope you're well. I have been trying to be a wildlife photography for a while now but I've never been consistent. That's the problem when you have so many hobbies I guess. I might have to start a roster. Anyway, the main attraction of wildlife photography for me is just being out in nature. I don't know the name of every creature I see and it's great to get home and do some research too. In all honesty, getting a nice shot of a bird or an animal is an added bonus and doesn't beat actually being present with the animal or bird (in my opinion). Keep up the awesome work. All the best.
Thanks mate, well said and yes, having lots of hobbies is a good thing but finding time for them all a challenge. My wife often wants me to spend more time on Landscape Photography but the birds is always my first instinct and joy. Cheers, Duade
Always a very humbling experience to come along on one of your journeys Duade.
Perfect! it's just the inspiration I needed. It's 4:30 in the morning here and I'm having my first cup of tea trying to get inspired to go do something with my camera.
Thanks Dan, I hope you had a good morning, Spring must be bringing some opportunities for you hopefully. Cheers, Duade
Loved my 40d. I still think the quality of the files holds up with modern cameras (as long as the ISO wasn’t pushed too far)
Thanks, yes, it does perform well for its age that is for sure. Cheers, Duade
I love videos like this, because they inspire others. 😌
Those old Canons have very nice sensors. Last year, a friend of mine let me borrow a beat-up Canon D60 he was given years ago (yeah, not the 60D) and I took some of my best shots on that camera even with it having a moldy sensor and cheap lenses.
The colors were filmic and the RAW files had lots of flexibility. Some vintage filter tweaks on Snapseed afterwards and the results left me so impressed.
I'm coming from a Canon 5SD R and Sony a7R II, and that old D60 made me feel more things that those much newer full-frame cameras.
Thanks for sharing, yes, there is something fun about these old cameras, maybe its the challenge, some sentimental feelings etc. Cheers, Duade
Thanks for the work that went into another upload, Duade! Some great shots again, & I especially appreciated the crake & rail shots. In areas of the US where I have seen rails, the are quite secretive & I've never had a shot opportunity.
One thing I often think of in your "40D videos" is that the 40D, while quite inexpensive now, was not when it was new. I think it was around $1300 US or so, making it far from budget at the time. I only mention that so as to say, it is not surprising to me whatsoever that a camera of that caliber can still take great shots. The photographer, of course, makes all the difference, & you have used that kit very well over the yrs.
Again, I thought it was very thoughtful of you to remember the contribution that your good friend made to your passion & its profound impact on your life. Always a plus to accentuate the positive forces we experience.
As far as the bird/wildlife photo drive, I had parts of it from my youth. My father raised game birds (quail, pheasants & partridges) when I was small & I was fascinated with all things wild. There's a snapshot of me @ 3-4 leaning over a Calif. Quail that my father was holding, just inches away... staring. Photography became an interest by my teens as a way to prolong those moments outdoors & have a tangible image to remind me of those experiences. Today, it is much the same - I thoroughly enjoy snatching a moment from the river of time & freezing it, to be relived (at least mentally) whenever the mood may strike. Those moments we share with the wild, however fleeting, are a priceless commodity to someone like myself.
Thanks again for the continued value you add to the world, Duade & may the start of the Autumn season be good to your photographic endeavors! Best regards ~ Chris
Thanks for the comment, Chris, I appreciate the feedback and yes, the 40D was very nice when it first came out. Great to hear you have had an interest in birds for a long time and you still have that drive. Happy birding, Cheers, Duade
I am amazed. Thank you for your honest and sympathetic way to show how photography works for you. One of the most helpful videos I have seen so far.
My pleasure!
I started with an elan2 film body with the 28-135 is lens. I started taking pictures of commercial aircraft at the airport. I use to make notes of exposures and would have to wait for film to be developed and printed to see how the exposures were. It was a long process but was able to take community night school programs to help learn. With modern digital cameras and TH-cam channels such as yours it sure helps the learning process. I now shoot wildlife (mainly birds) and landscapes. For me it’s a great escape from the hustle and bustle from the other part of life. I just love photography and every chance I get I’m out there.
All the best Duade.
I got started with a Canon SX50 bridge camera (1200mm equivalent!!) which got me hooked, and then my first DSLR bird photography setup was a Canon SL1 with a Sigma 120-400 lens. I kind of dropped bird photography for a while because I was busy with other things, but recently decided to to get back into it and just picked up a Sigma 150-600 Contemporary to use with my Canon R6 and 90D. I found your channel from your videos on using that lens with the Canon mirrorless bodies and have really been enjoying your videos! I think you've become my favorite bird photographers on TH-cam in the about a week since I found your channel. I think part of why I (and I presume others) enjoy these videos is because your enthusiasm and excitement about bird photography are just contagious! really resonate with what you said about "flow state" in bird photography. My favorite part about it is the experience of being absorbed in shooting the photos and working with the birds.
I started with a 40D and thought it an amazing body. Thanks for sharing your morning shoot.
My pleasure David, Cheers, Duade
It is always a pleasure to watch your youtube videos. In 2006 I got my first digital Canon camera 350d with 70-300m f4 later 40d and now 7dmk ll. With this camera I have taken +300000 pictures still work fine. Bird photography is often difficult but when you succeed it is always worth all the hours in the field and at the same time it is good for your soul
You killed it with this one, Duane! Great video all around. You touched on the entire human condition in a simple video about spending a few hours with birds.
You got me motivated to take my 50D and seldom used Tokina 400mm- 5.6 ATX out this weekend before dawn. Something I haven't done in ages and miss doing. Thanks for motivating me.
My pleasure, I hope you have fun and enjoy the process. Cheers, Duade
There's no better way to Honour your mentor/friend Matt, other than to go out into the Wildlife and shoot. Now coming to your 40D I'm really really astonished that how good the Canon 40D can be like really, it's almost 16 years old at this point or rather I must say 16 years new. ❤
Loved the egret shot and the peregrine falcon. If I am walking very far I take my Fuji XT2 and 70-300mm lens with a 1.4 tc. Have captured sone of my favourites down at Cranbourne Botanic Gardens. Though the elusive Splendid Fairy Wren is the one bird that I have yet to get a good shot of. So fast & so smalll.
The egret with the fish and water drops spraying?
I had a film camera back in the day but it was only when we planned a trip to see my Dad in America back in 2011 that I wanted to buy a camera to capture the holiday. I bought a Fuji HS20 but soon wanted a better camera, moved to a Canon 600D, to a 7D Mk 2, and now a R5. I didn’t start with birding and nature but soon found it to be the genre that captured the spirit. Watching Red Kites and hearing the birds during lockdown in the UK. I prefer the taking of images and find the editing a chore, that’s not the important part for me, I prefer being in nature. I don’t do social media apart from watching TH-cam. I’m colour blind so maybe the confidence to edit is not there. You channel Duade is simply brilliant, this video sums up it all. The excitement and passion shown is so infectious, I’m sure it feeds onto everyone of your viewers. Keep up the great work Duade.
Thanks Gary, yes, the process is the fun part for sure. Glad to hear you are enjoying getting out with your camera. Cheers, Duade
Thank you, Duade. I've been a fan of your work, including the videos, for several years. This was fun and informative to watch. I had to smile when you mentioned you were having fun shooting photos with an "old body." I've been having fun with mine, now, for almost 70 years. That's pretty old, but I enjoy every moment, even though I'm shooting with an old body of my own! 😉
Its fun to challenge yourself sometimes with older gear. It reminds us of how reliant we have become on new technology and helps to re-hone our skills.
I got into it initially because I was going through depression. But going outside had been something I enjoyed as a kid and suppressed in college and partly in HS. But once I got really going years later, it was to get people to appreciate what's around them and their role on this planet from birds to bugs to reptiles. I've been rolling with an EM-1 MKII and some good glass. Now, it's just a joy to share what I see with people.
Thanks for sharing - I started birding maybe 10 months ago with a $200 bridge camera (Canon Powershot sx50). Not many features, really small sensor but that’s exactly what I needed to learn the basics of photography and incidentally took some really nice photos by accident too! The 1200m optical zoom was mind blowing for a camera weight 500 grams.
I’m a university student with no car, so I get around with public transport and bicycle to wherever I can bird. I’m definitely sticking to light and cheap bridge cameras since I don’t have the money to afford too-of-the-line kit nor a car to help carry heavy gear.
I really appreciate videos like this which shows that birding doesn’t strictly have to be for people with lots of money. I think it would be great if you gave some bridge cameras a try too! I do wish there were more TH-camrs like me, as I think that would get a lot more ordinary people into birdwatching.
Why i enjoy your chanel is that you dont talk out of authority when giving advice and tips. You are humble and I can identfy myself with you.
It's funny how much of the UI of current Canon R cameras still looks the same as it was on the 40D. Not sure whether that's a good or a bad thing haha
Good.
Keep it simple I guess, makes it easy on the user going from body to body. Cheers, DUade
I think your videos make us feel like we're right there with you. What a great place to take photographs of birds. It would be very rare for me to see that many birds on a single outing but my first birding experience was like that and the chance that such an encounter might happen again keeps bringing me back out. The solitude and the exercise are a nice bonus.
Thanks Bruce, yes, this was pretty rare for me at this location also. Like you say sometimes it just happens and you have to make the most of it. Cheers, Duade
Love this! It truly proves that it's about the photographer - not the equipment. Thanks for sharing
Thanks, it is my pleasure, Cheers, Duade
Why do I love bird photography? I love seeing the amazing complexity, beauty, and interrelatedness of it all. It's a religious experience for me. I get to observe at close range the creative power of God. I have seen things in my months of bird photography that I never saw (although they were always all around me) in my previous 60+ years. There is almost always a new revelation waiting around the bend!
You are a good man. That is why we watch.
Well I really enjoy your videos, educational and just so enjoyable. I am a high school sport photographer who provides the kids with banners, senior portraits and sport action shots which I love. Watching you lie down by a pond gives me shivers. Here in central Florida, if I were to lie down by a marsh or pond, a 10ft alligator might want to either mate or devour me, neither is a pleasant thought. Best regards and I look forward to catching the next episode...Ted
Just found your videos online somehow and I am loving it. Your video reminds me of how much fun I had in the beginning learning and going after good light/subjects.. now I have more gear than time and passion, but your video is rekindling that joy. Thank you for sharing and I might even try bird photography.. I’ve had a great fun with birds before, but I never had bigger than 300mm.. and mosquitoes here are vicious… Can’t believe you are so clean after lying down in mud for much. You might have video about wardrobe(non-camera equipment).
Thanks, great to hear you are enjoying the videos. The ground next to the water is hard and dry so don't get too muddy. Yes mozzies can be annoying, thankfully we don't get too many here, especially in summer. Have fun out there. Cheers, Duade 👍
I know the feeling, still have my 550D with the 70-200 f4 non-IS. Buffer is 7 RAWs so I have to burst very carefully. :) Still got many beautiful shots. Now my son is learning photography with it.
That is great to hear, yes, the joy we have when out with our cameras is what is important. Cheers, Duade
Your eye for the motif is the decisive factor. Not the equipment. State-of-the-art technology does not automatically produce better pictures. Well done.👍 Thx
Thanks Wolfgang, Cheers, Duade
Hi, thanks for sharing! I loved your video and thoughts. And what a great way to honor your mentor and friend. I started bird photography during time in my live when i was struggling with work. I gave and still gives my just what I need to get away from the stress and get some rest in my head. Just love doing it.
Thanks for sharing!!
Years a ago when I first started out I wasn't thinking I would ever get into wildlife photography. My first camera was a Canon A40 took some good shots with it then it was time to move up to real Gear.
FUN is sooo important, at the same time these pictures still have great quality in them. To me, that is a testament to your dedication to get up early, and your skills in the field to know the area and spot animals.
My first real DSLR was the Canon 40D, and it is long gone from my arsenal, but it’s a camera I miss. I paired it with a first generation Canon 100-400 L. The lens I still own. Still sharp.
Thank you for reminding us to blow the dust off our old equipment, and having a go at it.