Oh this is deep. Totally agree with seeing differently. When I first started with photography I went to a friend's wedding and took maybe 100 shots total and most were garbage. BUT there was a fountain outside the hotel and while the actual photographer was taking boring shots of the family and everyone else was chatting, I took a different shot from behind the fountain, had the whole family in trying to get organised and a few kids messing around at the side. The light was shining through some trees and there was a bit of rainbow from the water spray. Sent it to them afterwards along with some pretty awful pictures from the reception. Couple of months later they show me a photobook they had made and my picture is the middle double spread and it blew me away. I did not realise how good that picture was until then, and compared to the rest of the book (which was technically excellent) it had so much more feeling. Camera was a canon 550d with the kit lens. I'm not sure but that might have been the best shot I'll ever take. Thanks for reminding me of it, I'm going to go look at it again now.
@@estebanserrano1303 same here, although I had considered it many years ago and always admired and wanted to be able to take some shots which I had seen and thought were quite breathtaking. I love his style of presentation and it can be seen the passion and love of the craft coming through which has inspired me to look at and consider photography in a different way. Maybe, I will become a boffin half as good if I follow his school of thought. No fluff or pretensions, just decades of expertise and experience garnered and distilled into what is important.
This episode feels like a doctoral dissertation/ master class on "The Creative Process." Just as long as Gratitude is the attitude, I must say Gracias.
Completely agree! I find that my most creative and satisfying shots occur when I go with the flow and turn my thoughts and expectations off, and just observe my surroundings. Whenever those thoughts or expectations get involved, I always end up frustrated and stagnent.
You know what, Nigel? You may have inadvertently given your audience the best piece of advice without mentioning it. I do it all the time due to a bad back. Sit down. Sit down, breathe and quietly take in your surroundings. I always appreciate your videos and this one was no exception.
As much as I truly enjoy your lens and camera reviews.. this video really speaks to me as a musician and lifelong hobbyist (and occasionally paid) photographer. It's too easy to let the everyday crap crowd our heads to the detriment of creativity.. and even when we're feeling perfectly fine can still over-think our craft and forget to experiment and just play. Bravo and thank you!
Probably the most valuable photography "tutorial" video I've seen on TH-cam. Having a digital camera, and perhaps lacking any inspiration, one can just fire away willy-nilly and see what sort of results can be achieved. One of the main goals of my photography hobby is to create images I'll eventually print and use to decorate and personalize my home, some rooms in color and some in black and white. While I sometimes think I have an idea what subject matter I want to use, in my lost reflective moments I realize I won't know until I see it. I can't really imagine a more "artsy" application of my various pieces of camera gear.
What a great monologue on creativity! Absolutely spot on. Regarding street photography, a tip is to be cautious about photographing people you don't want to get involved with, or crime and anything degrading. Watch out in traffic and don't forget about the sun being able to burn your eye out (analogue).
I really appreciated this video. To me it was very genuine and heartfelt, and though my subscription may be less than a year old, it's one of the best I've seen from you.
I came across your channel while searching for camera reviews, and so pleased that I did! I'm 63 and just starting on my photography journey and quite shocked at the many things that there is to learn. My photos in the past have always been taken in auto mode everything with no idea about aperture, ISO and shutter speed, My wife has an old Canon EOS Rebel T5 that I've thought of learning on, but not sure if it's appropriate for Street photography which is the area that I'm most attracted to. The many choices of cameras can be over whelming! I was considering purchasing either a Fujifilm X-T1 or the point and shoot Sony RX100 Mark III. Any suggestions from you and your subscribers will be appreciated! Thank you. I really enjoy your content.
Good to hear your essay on the creative process. Pen and ink is my main medium and I quite agree with your train of thought about the delicate balance between meditation and playfulness.
What a wonderful Zenography episode!!!! Thanks !! When I started at art school and with photography, I bought an Olympus OM 10. Then followed an OM 1, OM 2 and many beautiful Zuiko lenses… In short; Olympus has defined my photography life. And besides my Olympus 'life' I have my iPhone to capture moments. Watching, experiencing…that is enjoyment and art.
Super useful episode, Nigel. Great advice for all photographers, old as well as new. It's very easy to get into a rut, to take the same pictures that you've taken before, or even worse, to not take a picture at all. Excellent. George
Hi Nigel, cracking video again! Not been in touch re furthering my project due to some slight setbacks. But, having watched this video I’m sure there is a great convergence in our thinking, enthusiasm in people finding themselves and the world, through the eye of the camera and making their own “Magic eye” work. Thank you.
OMG Nigel, this might be your best and a very important video. btw John Cleese told in a tedtalk, that to be creative, he sits in,a comfotable sofa /chair, and try to remove any thoughts, and be bored without thinking, and wait for the ideas start bubbles and pop up by themselves
Nigel, you are so photographically articulate, you are so right artistic photography is a very different animal. Like you I photograph anything and everything, I also love light and shadows, I love shadowy silhouettes, again many of my photographs come serendipitously, almost by accident, I stumble into a scene, my eyes are constantly seeing potential, angles, the play of light, shapes, and as you also say, an almost accidental approach, again gear isn't important, I use ancient vintage Sony digital cameras, the Sony DSC R1 and the DSC F828 as they are slow, I'm a non formulaic photographer I know the rules but constantly break them. Great video Nigel, love the channel.
I like this focus on photography instead of gear. And the point having a quiet mind rings true. Some of my best photographs have been made when I've had time and space to absorb myself in the activity and be patient, even messing around and breaking the rules; the worst ones when I've been with other people and rushing from one place to the next.
a part of my creative process i have talks, chit chats, with a friend, with same interest as myself about shooting vintage lenses and shares the same sense of humor . we talk in east and end in west, suddently an idea pop up, and in the following back and forth playing with that, it often end with one of us, or both go out to follow up on these ideas with the camera. A brain storm inspiring talk to kickstart the creativity
I've been advising people - especially those on limited budgets - to go look at older books on photography (from before the days of autofocus, so early 80s and earlier). The old timers were working with gear that today we would consider slow and difficult, and to be good they had to learn composition and light. I've recently picked up "The Eye of Eisenstadt", where his discusses his favorite shots and how he learned his craft - he started with glass-plate cameras and slow emulsions, far trickier than what we can pick up for just a few quid today.
Older DSLRs are a fantastic deal these days. Ive gone back to them. I prefer the more filmic look of cameras like the Canon 5D Classic, Nikon D700 and others. They are less expensive than most lenses these days.
I agree, I have a really good collection of photography books dating back to the 1910s. I enjoy reading the processes they used in the old days. Just purchased the complete Kodak library of photography that has taken me in new directions. Cheers!
Bye thunder you've hit a nerve on this one! Good stuff...and love the idea about "you've got to just play" ...Got that part down...I can't quit playing long enought to create anything!
I agree to an extent with the premise of this video. My first SLR came with an Industar 50, a good lens in many respects for a beginner, being a cheap simple 50mm. However, as I became more proficient, it eventually became an artistic limitation. The f3.5 aperture and minimum focus distance of 2ft limited the amount of blur I could generate, as well as the low light capabilities. Buying a 55mm f1.8 was so important to the quality of images I could produce. Of course, more equipment does not improve one as a photographer, but it can unleash a lot of potential. I now own 4 lenses and do not need any more. They cover any scenario I can think of excellently. None were expensive. I have a Super Takumar 35mm f3.5 for street shots and landscapes, a Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 55mm f1.8 as my everyday "fast 50", a Helios 44-2 58mm f2 for the gorgeous bokeh and portraits, and a Meyer-Optik Görlitz 135mm f2.8 for wildlife etc. Out of these four, I use the Takumar lenses most frequently, so if there are two lenses I would recommend to use solely, it would be a 35mm and a 50mm-ish f1.4-f2. That will cover 90% of scenarios.
Well said, my friend! When I let it all go and just walk around, I tend to see things in ways that I and other people don't normally see. It's a blessing, and it doesn't always happen. I definitely understand why the Greeks imagined the muses. You definitely know when you are being visited by one! It's impossible for me to explain, but I think you did a really good job. Great video! P.S.: I also love the Olympus OM cameras. In my mind, they are among the best for beginners. The settings make more sense for a complete beginner with an OM. I've been shooting with an OM-1 for years. It just has a way of not getting in the way. The creative process just flows better for me with the OM cameras than any other cameras I've used.
Such a great video. I thought that creative people just picked a medium and the torrent of ideas just flowed back. You have inspired me to go find the doorway to my own creative side.
Are you thinking of the Three Graces? There were nine Muses, each for a different subject, none of them specifically for image making or sculpture, but perhaps they weren't looking properly, and there is one for us out there somewhere. Your Olympus is definitely a good place to start looking.
This is right on. Nigel, you have said that it is the photographer that is the great treasure- the human behind the camera, the mind, heart and soul. We are not a result of random chance. We are ourselves a wonderful creation. Your lesson was, for me, a delight to consider, to believe, and to put into practice. Many thanks.
I'm so happy you did this video! I have been very curious about your thoughts and insights about the "zen" of photography. I would love to see more regular videos like this covering specific topics. Also, I've been trying out a couple f/2 50mm lenses and.....wow. f/2 really is all anyone needs and I regularly shoot film. I honestly don't think they're noticeably worse than either of my two 50mm f/1.4 lenses. High-spec gear is nice, but not important.
enjoyed your video and talk made me think more about my mind, part of the reason i love photography it takes me out of my everyday routeen. and puts me in a nice place in my mind. I only have one eye that works so i find walking with a camera pleaseing to do trying to see those elusive images the keepers makes it more fun. I do try very hard to clear my mind like you were saying, I use photography to help me with mental health issues that I have in my life, and it works for me. I reasently took some pictures at a wedding reseption only a handfull were any good the rest just snap shots but I really like the few I think are good so I feel possivtive about them low light was the main reason I had trouble. please make more videos like this one I found it very interesting and usefull thank you from Tony........
Good inspiration there for photographers old and new. 📷🙂👍 In line with "your gear is not important".... my very new gear as of yesterday is... a 16 year old Canon 30D 8mp sensor creating 1mb files, and I'm absolutely enjoying the novelty and thrill. Cheap as chips. 🙂👍 Best wishes. Steve
A reminder on this topic is welcomed and needed on a somewhat regular basis. Since, like said in this video, it's not the gear, but the photographer that actually shoots all the images. Otherwise, the camera collectors would all be the masters of photography. But collecting and looking at gear reviews here on TH-cam is wonderful too.
Great episode, Nigel, thank's for sharing your thoughts! It's in the eye that sees, and about understanding light. People often ask what's most important, the camera or the lens? It's the photographer.
This is a really refreshing take on photography. There is far too much emphasis on having the right equipment. For me, the right equipment is the equipment that does what you want it to. A lot of people say you need photos with the light behind you. Yes for sure, your photos should be reasonably well let, but what about people who take photos looking into the light and capture some really cool light flares and effects that really compliment the subject they're photographing. I really love comparing how different lenses create different visual effects. Many of the photos I've taken have been to showcase technical details in engineering and so most of the emphasis is on capturing those details rather than a generally pleasing image. It kind of flies in the face of your approach, however it is a very good way to learn which aspects make a difference. As and when I get the opportunity to take photos and vids for fun, I'll be really looking forwards to seeing how I can use this knowledge to highlight the details I'd like to capture. I'd love to get into macro photography, for me it has a huge advantage in that you can collect images from your immediate local area that you would never normally be able to see. The macro range allows you to see beyond what you'd normally see with your eyes. Being able to do this locally also has a huge advantage in that you can make use of smaller amounts of time at minimal traveling cost. There's some amazing videos and photos of peoples trips to see icelandic waterfalls and other cool places, but the opportunities to take these cool trips are few and far between. I really like your videos as your showcasing what's available in your local area. I feel like macro photography would allow the opportunity to focus in the smaller details that would normally be overlooked.
essential viewing...whatever skill level you're at, keep taking / making images...good or bad...enjoy.......every day is a school day...thank you for this..
Great video! I've just started trying to do some street photography. I found that people at car shows are more than happy to pose with their "pride and joy".
New to your channel and finding it very interesting. Actually I like this episode so much that I believe anyone who is interested in this artform or any for that mater, would benefit listening to this.
Greetings from Corfu. There were 9 muses in Greek mythology: Clio, Euterpe, Thalia, Melpomeni, Terpsichore, Erato, Polymnia, Ourania and Calliope. Otherwise, another very interesting video and, more to the point, some opinions that I agree with. I feel concentration is a necessary skill that all photographers need - if not an essential skill for life as well. This is part of "seeing" that you talk about. I agree that cameras don't make a great photographer but I do think that most great photographers over the years have used pretty good cameras. However, most will have started their photographic journey with something more modest. The one factor that remains as a gift of the Gods is that mysterious talent of having the "photographer's eye". Some have it and some don't. No amount of practice and perseverance can create that, but, if we enjoy our time playing, it's not wasted time. Καλό βράδυ
Someone offered me a Panasonic fx1 for $5. It has bad dynamic range, but I found using flash gives really cool retro looking images. Especially stuff like portraits. I’ve seen tons of old photos, they absolutely look like those, the colors (CCD sensor). The small flash etc. in simple mode you can actually have the flash underexpose the background, while in portrait mode using an extra button. Pretty cool for $5. I’m going to take this to a party and get some retro vs modern shots. Early digital cameras actually made a point of recreating the film camera look. In this case probably a cheap film camera, but that’s what most old photos were made on of course. The flash actually is paired nicely with the sensor, if you shoot in low light without or in high dynamic range outside, it not as good for sure. Even outside I would leave the flash on, so your subject isn’t tons darker than say the sky. And shoot within the flash distance.
Great essay/lecture, (as a middlesex 2.1BAhon graduate iv be subjected to a few) So glad you mentioned the alternate psychology that afflicts the suburbs .
It is... well, Zen. Definitely a frame of mind. And there are definitely things in your musings that I recognise. I also think it's important to know how far you want to go with it, as well. I don't take it too seriously, and consequently don't set the bar too high. And while I might lack in ambition, I do enjoy what I do, and just potter around, basically.
Good job Nigel.. You seemed to have made a much more chilled out vid this time.. I know you are pretty much urban but have you ever thought of doing a forest walk, river walk, docks walk, downs etc?.. I'm sure I'm not the only one who'd enjoy it.. Keep it up matey : )
I think Picasso said: Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working. So always be keen to listen, as the muses can whisper in your ear when you least expect it. Great video mate. I absolutely agree on your point of the playfulness.
I've always been creative, starting with drawing and painting, then making music, and now photography. And I think I can fully agree with everything here. I have noticed that often tutorials in a given creative subject treat the process like learning any other set of academic information, while ignoring what Nigel rightly points out here: that there needs to be an aspect of play; of not being too worried about making something rubbish. Across all the media I have used, my little masterpieces have been raised up higher by all the utter garbage that preceded them. I know that's only one of the many points raised here, but it's the one that I think is often forgotten. Great video, Nigel.
Very easy to say that it is fine to take rubbish pictures, but when film and developing is as expensive as it is, taking pictures left right and centre is only an option for those with deep pockets or digital cameras. One of the best things about manual film is that it forces one to stop and think about composition before committing, rather than taking pictures willy nilly.
i have been enjoying your videos very much…renewing my interest in photography. I have been lookin. I am wondering if you could do a short video about lens adapters ?
The Olympus OM 2-N is a very nice camera. The shutter sound. Great. A very small and light design of Designer genius Yoshihisa Maitani. Much lighter than all other brands. Bought my OM 2-N back in 1980. Still have it.
I always enjoy your videos. This is a nice change. So true, just keep shooting. Having started with film, it is much “easier” to experiment and less costly with digital. That said, shooting with film is still a joy. I do miss having a darkroom to print my images.
I agree with what you are saying, I started with Film, joined Digital as soon as it began, and spent too much time upgrading from one Camera to the next big thing and not spending enough time with what I had. Recently feeling a bit jaded I returned to my original old Digital gear, I have never sold any of my equipment so it was all there. I started out with a Sony F305, then a F707, then a F 828, so that is where I began again and was pleasantly surprised with the output from these supposedly outdated old Cameras and watching TH-camrs such as yourself I found others searching out the same things, a lot of them looking for these Cameras and regretting having parted with them, keep going Sir.
Off subject commentary, for anyone interested in participating; the LensCulture Black and White Photography Awards is open. Deadline is October 19th. Totally on the spot, best way to learn photography is by taking photos. Lots of mess-ups along the way 😉
True. I just bought myself a Canon IXUS 70 and a Canon IXUS 510 hs cause I wanted something old and compact to make pictures, to create. See if I can make something with those little things.
Nice rant 😊, lots of good angles in there indeed! Don't agree with all, but many. Thanx. In fact, you touched on so much, there is no point in commenting on anything specific, it'll become a novel. 😁 And it's not all black and white, either or, ..no straightforward takeaway point is what I'm saying. Some aspects will make no sense to one person, or at a given time, ..but will make sense to another, or at a later point in the photographic journey. But that's how it goes, I think. But very stimulating to watch / listen to, I recommend it! 💚 Being a person that likes to (has to..?) think about these things too (and not really a novice anymore), if I were forced to, I would boil it / this down to just two things. Outrageous, huh? 😮 And it might sound simplistic, but I don't thing it is. Here we go: FIRST: Keep it fun! (If that means going deep into specific things, bringing on the drama, challenge, struggle - DO IT! If that means keeping it simple and light, easy going, back to baseline - DO IT! ..) SECOND: Produce something! (At the end of the day, have some images made. If you don't take any photographs, by whatever means, there is zero chance of you having taken a good one, a shitty one, ..or have failed a.k.a. having a learning experience etc. Apply yourself..) These two aspects will create, a rather short, feedback loop that will potentially sustain your photography journey. (Nothing against long-term goals though.) I can't possibly tell where, but if care for these two thing, your creative process will take you places, will grow, evolve ...somewhere or into something. (Or nowhere, or you lose yourself, haha.) But it will always be YOUR thing. And my guess is, you will meet, wrestle with, bump into many many of the good points made in this video along the way!!! And you'll encounter them when you're ready, when they have relevance to you at a given time, I won't be an intellectual study or something you 'should' do or follow. When it comes up, it will make sense and have meaning.. Have a good day y'all ..
Lovely video; in the "Fred Dibnah meets Grainy Days" genre (tongue in cheek of course but it's meant in praise); really love the philosophical approach and this is a very welcome addition to your technical vintage lens focussed vernacular..........I would love to see you making more videos on composition, your inspiration and your personal journey in photography : would also love to see some hook ups with the likes of analog insights and Karin Majoka to further explore this enduring mystery of why we're all so obsessed still with the world of film representation: I think the British European American and Australian tropes of this wonderful disease need further comparative analysis..........
@@zenography7923 i have takumars 55/1.8 ,macro 50/4 and ,35/3.5 and 135/2.5. does i need takumar 85/1.8 or it is similar in sharpness contrast and use for bokeh portraits to my 135/2.5?
I love your outdoors videos. You're a wise man. When I do street photography I use a TLR. It's uncanny because people make a bee line towards it and I've had loads stop and ask me about the camera and ask me to take their photo. For future episodes I would like to see more film, an episode on photo books and photographers that have inspired you. As for gear to review. I've a few things that I don't mind loaning you, semi long term, which your viewers might like to see.
I am using a janky Ricoh XR7 with gorilla tape inside the mirrorbox and a badly dented SMC Pentax 35mm f3.5 as my main film rig these days - I paid $25 CAD from a case of neglected gear at the repair shop. I HAVE TRANSCENDED THE GEAR.
I'm a woodland photographer and not a street photographer. Visualize what you want to create, work with special projects, work with portfolios in your projects, give you self a feedback are the pictures as you visualize them, listen to music and get in a depressed state. Start taking photographs and after a time you get in the proper mode and will be creative. The problem is to get out and do it. Don’t put money in new equipment that delays your development as an artist, use what you have and be careful with switching camera system. Put the money in lenses, art books and time to take photographs. Read Photograpics history, use the internet to look at artists photos. Also there are books in photographics theory but they are ususally boring.
@@zenography7923 My problem is to get the time to go out and take photograph. How can you find the time? I had a Panasonic LX 5 and I could take that camera to work and take photographs during the way to work. I got the Fuji X-Pro 1 for the same use but it’s a little too large..
Actually you will have more keepers if you know what you want; chance favors the prepared mind. There is a composition technique, it's called 'focus', start with writing down a single word or line you want to create on blank canvas or piece of paper. ( it could be also a poem). I am not saying your pictures will be exactly what you wrote down, but at least you will keep focus on what you want. Alternatively; Create a little studio at home; it could be even a little shoe box, it's great for creating lighting that is not possible outside, and you can place any model or background you want, or put your studio at the window if you need natural light. For snapshots, do whatever you want, but don't expect wonders, as many will be shot from the hip, which can also be nice if you like that. I don't want to say - spray and pray - cause that would be putting down the creative process, but we should be aware of the results.
![[TH] 2024 PMSL SEA W2D5 | Fall | พลาดวันนี้ จะต้องเสียใจ](http://i.ytimg.com/vi/A5-Cuo12p6A/mqdefault.jpg)
Oh this is deep. Totally agree with seeing differently. When I first started with photography I went to a friend's wedding and took maybe 100 shots total and most were garbage. BUT there was a fountain outside the hotel and while the actual photographer was taking boring shots of the family and everyone else was chatting, I took a different shot from behind the fountain, had the whole family in trying to get organised and a few kids messing around at the side. The light was shining through some trees and there was a bit of rainbow from the water spray. Sent it to them afterwards along with some pretty awful pictures from the reception. Couple of months later they show me a photobook they had made and my picture is the middle double spread and it blew me away. I did not realise how good that picture was until then, and compared to the rest of the book (which was technically excellent) it had so much more feeling. Camera was a canon 550d with the kit lens. I'm not sure but that might have been the best shot I'll ever take. Thanks for reminding me of it, I'm going to go look at it again now.
I am a 69 year old artist with a camera. You've offered up a great summary of the elements of the creative process. Well said.👍🌿☘️☕🌟🙏
Thank you, I'm glad you enjoyed it. 👍
I'm 63 and just getting started with photography.
@@estebanserrano1303 same here, although I had considered it many years ago and always admired and wanted to be able to take some shots which I had seen and thought were quite breathtaking.
I love his style of presentation and it can be seen the passion and love of the craft coming through which has inspired me to look at and consider photography in a different way.
Maybe, I will become a boffin half as good if I follow his school of thought. No fluff or pretensions, just decades of expertise and experience garnered and distilled into what is important.
This episode feels like a doctoral dissertation/ master class on "The Creative Process." Just as long as Gratitude is the attitude, I must say Gracias.
Very glad you enjoyed it Pablo, thanks!
Completely agree! I find that my most creative and satisfying shots occur when I go with the flow and turn my thoughts and expectations off, and just observe my surroundings. Whenever those thoughts or expectations get involved, I always end up frustrated and stagnent.
Hi from Russia 🖖
Your thoughts could apply not only to photography. You thoughts are very deep. Love your videos and love your thoughts 🤝
Gear absolutely can be important. Context is EVERYTHING.
My favorite video of all time is the one where you sing a song about your A7. This is firmly placed in the #2 spot in the Zenography Canon.
I'm glad you liked the a7 song - I was quite pleased with it myself! Glad you enjoyed the video.
"Oh A7... I think you came from Heaven..."
th-cam.com/video/tj8785uKiFw/w-d-xo.html
You know what, Nigel? You may have inadvertently given your audience the best piece of advice without mentioning it. I do it all the time due to a bad back. Sit down. Sit down, breathe and quietly take in your surroundings. I always appreciate your videos and this one was no exception.
As much as I truly enjoy your lens and camera reviews.. this video really speaks to me as a musician and lifelong hobbyist (and occasionally paid) photographer. It's too easy to let the everyday crap crowd our heads to the detriment of creativity.. and even when we're feeling perfectly fine can still over-think our craft and forget to experiment and just play. Bravo and thank you!
Probably the most valuable photography "tutorial" video I've seen on TH-cam. Having a digital camera, and perhaps lacking any inspiration, one can just fire away willy-nilly and see what sort of results can be achieved. One of the main goals of my photography hobby is to create images I'll eventually print and use to decorate and personalize my home, some rooms in color and some in black and white. While I sometimes think I have an idea what subject matter I want to use, in my lost reflective moments I realize I won't know until I see it. I can't really imagine a more "artsy" application of my various pieces of camera gear.
Photography puts me in the "flow". Calms me down, and I really enjoy the process.
What a great monologue on creativity! Absolutely spot on.
Regarding street photography, a tip is to be cautious about photographing people you don't want to get involved with, or crime and anything degrading. Watch out in traffic and don't forget about the sun being able to burn your eye out (analogue).
I really appreciated this video. To me it was very genuine and heartfelt, and though my subscription may be less than a year old, it's one of the best I've seen from you.
I came across your channel while searching for camera reviews, and so pleased that I did!
I'm 63 and just starting on my photography journey and quite shocked at the many things that there is to learn. My photos in the past have always been taken in auto mode everything with no idea about aperture, ISO and shutter speed, My wife has an old Canon EOS Rebel T5 that I've thought of learning on, but not sure if it's appropriate for Street photography which is the area that I'm most attracted to. The many choices of cameras can be over whelming! I was considering purchasing either a Fujifilm X-T1 or the point and shoot Sony RX100 Mark III. Any suggestions from you and your subscribers will be appreciated!
Thank you. I really enjoy your content.
I think your comments in reference to street shooting in the city vs. street shoot in he suburbs is a very important point indeed! 😊
It sounds like you've learned from experience!
Hello, I've heard a lot of talk, rambling about the creativity act , this was one of the best mate!
Cheers Ken, glad you liked it!
Good to hear your essay on the creative process. Pen and ink is my main medium and I quite agree with your train of thought about the delicate balance between meditation and playfulness.
Glad you enjoyed the video, thanks for looking in!
Very encouraging! Perfectionism is the archenemy of creativity! Thanks so much.
I enjoyed this very much. Two lessons you highlight which applies to life in general, slow down and have a quiet mind. Thanks.
Thanks Nick, glad you enjoyed it!
What a wonderful Zenography episode!!!! Thanks !!
When I started at art school and with photography, I bought an Olympus OM 10. Then followed an OM 1, OM 2 and many beautiful Zuiko lenses… In short; Olympus has defined my photography life.
And besides my Olympus 'life' I have my iPhone to capture moments. Watching, experiencing…that is enjoyment and art.
Hi Nigel
You know how much I adore the Olympus om1 and 2n. Great episode my friend
Super useful episode, Nigel.
Great advice for all photographers, old as well as new.
It's very easy to get into a rut, to take the same pictures that you've taken before, or even worse, to not take a picture at all.
Excellent.
George
Hi Nigel, cracking video again! Not been in touch re furthering my project due to some slight setbacks. But, having watched this video I’m sure there is a great convergence in our thinking, enthusiasm in people finding themselves and the world, through the eye of the camera and making their own “Magic eye” work. Thank you.
OMG Nigel, this might be your best and a very important video. btw John Cleese told in a tedtalk, that to be creative, he sits in,a comfotable sofa /chair, and try to remove any thoughts, and be bored without thinking, and wait for the ideas start bubbles and pop up by themselves
Very glad you enjoyed it Henrik!
Nigel, you are so photographically articulate, you are so right artistic photography is a very different animal. Like you I photograph anything and everything, I also love light and shadows, I love shadowy silhouettes, again many of my photographs come serendipitously, almost by accident, I stumble into a scene, my eyes are constantly seeing potential, angles, the play of light, shapes, and as you also say, an almost accidental approach, again gear isn't important, I use ancient vintage Sony digital cameras, the Sony DSC R1 and the DSC F828 as they are slow, I'm a non formulaic photographer I know the rules but constantly break them. Great video Nigel, love the channel.
In the words of the author Joseph Machney. Fear stands for False Emotions Acting as Reality, nothing more ...Another brilliant video Nigel, thank you.
Thanks Pete, glad you enjoyed it!
I needed this today. Yesterday was a difficult day shooting and this has helped to bring me a little perspective. Thank you
I like this focus on photography instead of gear. And the point having a quiet mind rings true. Some of my best photographs have been made when I've had time and space to absorb myself in the activity and be patient, even messing around and breaking the rules; the worst ones when I've been with other people and rushing from one place to the next.
There's no formula for any of this, but I've found it can work for me. Thanks for looking in!
a part of my creative process i have talks, chit chats, with a friend, with same interest as myself about shooting vintage lenses and shares the same sense of humor . we talk in east and end in west, suddently an idea pop up, and in the following back and forth playing with that, it often end with one of us, or both go out to follow up on these ideas with the camera. A brain storm inspiring talk to kickstart the creativity
Sounds like a good way to work!
I've been advising people - especially those on limited budgets - to go look at older books on photography (from before the days of autofocus, so early 80s and earlier). The old timers were working with gear that today we would consider slow and difficult, and to be good they had to learn composition and light. I've recently picked up "The Eye of Eisenstadt", where his discusses his favorite shots and how he learned his craft - he started with glass-plate cameras and slow emulsions, far trickier than what we can pick up for just a few quid today.
Older DSLRs are a fantastic deal these days. Ive gone back to them. I prefer the more filmic look of cameras like the Canon 5D Classic, Nikon D700 and others. They are less expensive than most lenses these days.
I agree, I have a really good collection of photography books dating back to the 1910s. I enjoy reading the processes they used in the old days. Just purchased the complete Kodak library of photography that has taken me in new directions. Cheers!
Bye thunder you've hit a nerve on this one! Good stuff...and love the idea about "you've got to just play" ...Got that part down...I can't quit playing long enought to create anything!
I agree to an extent with the premise of this video. My first SLR came with an Industar 50, a good lens in many respects for a beginner, being a cheap simple 50mm. However, as I became more proficient, it eventually became an artistic limitation. The f3.5 aperture and minimum focus distance of 2ft limited the amount of blur I could generate, as well as the low light capabilities. Buying a 55mm f1.8 was so important to the quality of images I could produce. Of course, more equipment does not improve one as a photographer, but it can unleash a lot of potential.
I now own 4 lenses and do not need any more. They cover any scenario I can think of excellently. None were expensive. I have a Super Takumar 35mm f3.5 for street shots and landscapes, a Super-Multi-Coated Takumar 55mm f1.8 as my everyday "fast 50", a Helios 44-2 58mm f2 for the gorgeous bokeh and portraits, and a Meyer-Optik Görlitz 135mm f2.8 for wildlife etc.
Out of these four, I use the Takumar lenses most frequently, so if there are two lenses I would recommend to use solely, it would be a 35mm and a 50mm-ish f1.4-f2. That will cover 90% of scenarios.
You have some very nice lenses there, enjoy!
Thanks! I needed this motivation and direction!
Many thanks - appreciated!
Well said, my friend! When I let it all go and just walk around, I tend to see things in ways that I and other people don't normally see. It's a blessing, and it doesn't always happen. I definitely understand why the Greeks imagined the muses. You definitely know when you are being visited by one! It's impossible for me to explain, but I think you did a really good job. Great video!
P.S.: I also love the Olympus OM cameras. In my mind, they are among the best for beginners. The settings make more sense for a complete beginner with an OM. I've been shooting with an OM-1 for years. It just has a way of not getting in the way. The creative process just flows better for me with the OM cameras than any other cameras I've used.
Such a great video. I thought that creative people just picked a medium and the torrent of ideas just flowed back. You have inspired me to go find the doorway to my own creative side.
Loved those gnarled tree trunks towards the end of your video, they looked like totem poles.
They're quite something aren't they!
Really good stuff! I am now the most creative when I retired and live alone with my kitty. Cheers!
That sounds nice - a truly relaxing lifestyle!
There’s a reason this channel is called Zenography
Are you thinking of the Three Graces? There were nine Muses, each for a different subject, none of them specifically for image making or sculpture, but perhaps they weren't looking properly, and there is one for us out there somewhere. Your Olympus is definitely a good place to start looking.
Greetings from your old homecountry, from Germany.
Thank you for sharing your thoughts. I really enjoyed longer talk video and wait for similar vids on your channel.
This is right on. Nigel, you have said that it is the photographer that is the great treasure- the human behind the camera, the mind, heart and soul. We are not a result of random chance. We are ourselves a wonderful creation. Your lesson was, for me, a delight to consider, to believe, and to put into practice. Many thanks.
Really glad you enjoyed it David, thanks.
I'm so happy you did this video! I have been very curious about your thoughts and insights about the "zen" of photography. I would love to see more regular videos like this covering specific topics.
Also, I've been trying out a couple f/2 50mm lenses and.....wow. f/2 really is all anyone needs and I regularly shoot film. I honestly don't think they're noticeably worse than either of my two 50mm f/1.4 lenses. High-spec gear is nice, but not important.
Spot on, many thanks Nigel. This is the sort of thing I'd like to hear more: philosophy, musings, approaches to the ceative process.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
enjoyed your video and talk made me think more about my mind, part of the reason i love photography it takes me out of my everyday routeen. and puts me in a nice place in my mind. I only have one eye that works so i find walking with a camera pleaseing to do trying to see those elusive images the keepers makes it more fun. I do try very hard to clear my mind like you were saying, I use photography to help me with mental health issues that I have in my life, and it works for me. I reasently took some pictures at a wedding reseption only a handfull were any good the rest just snap shots but I really like the few I think are good so I feel possivtive about them low light was the main reason I had trouble. please make more videos like this one I found it very interesting and usefull thank you from Tony........
The Gest Advice Sir!!!! Just Let Go,
Good inspiration there for photographers old and new. 📷🙂👍
In line with "your gear is not important".... my very new gear as of yesterday is... a 16 year old Canon 30D 8mp sensor creating 1mb files, and I'm absolutely enjoying the novelty and thrill. Cheap as chips. 🙂👍
Best wishes.
Steve
There is no limit to the images you can make with this - or any - camera! Enjoy.
@@zenography7923 I've paired it with a nifty fifty.... and I'm in love with it. 📷😎👍
This is very illuminating
A reminder on this topic is welcomed and needed on a somewhat regular basis. Since, like said in this video, it's not the gear, but the photographer that actually shoots all the images. Otherwise, the camera collectors would all be the masters of photography. But collecting and looking at gear reviews here on TH-cam is wonderful too.
Glad you enjoyed it Peter!
This is unique video. I will use it as a reference. Thank you
Glad it was helpful!
Great episode, Nigel, thank's for sharing your thoughts! It's in the eye that sees, and about understanding light. People often ask what's most important, the camera or the lens? It's the photographer.
Thanks for a stream of consciousness video. Creativity is a stream: step in, jump in or fall in. No downside.
Indeed - glad you enjoyed it!
This is a really refreshing take on photography.
There is far too much emphasis on having the right equipment. For me, the right equipment is the equipment that does what you want it to.
A lot of people say you need photos with the light behind you. Yes for sure, your photos should be reasonably well let, but what about people who take photos looking into the light and capture some really cool light flares and effects that really compliment the subject they're photographing.
I really love comparing how different lenses create different visual effects. Many of the photos I've taken have been to showcase technical details in engineering and so most of the emphasis is on capturing those details rather than a generally pleasing image.
It kind of flies in the face of your approach, however it is a very good way to learn which aspects make a difference. As and when I get the opportunity to take photos and vids for fun, I'll be really looking forwards to seeing how I can use this knowledge to highlight the details I'd like to capture.
I'd love to get into macro photography, for me it has a huge advantage in that you can collect images from your immediate local area that you would never normally be able to see. The macro range allows you to see beyond what you'd normally see with your eyes. Being able to do this locally also has a huge advantage in that you can make use of smaller amounts of time at minimal traveling cost.
There's some amazing videos and photos of peoples trips to see icelandic waterfalls and other cool places, but the opportunities to take these cool trips are few and far between. I really like your videos as your showcasing what's available in your local area. I feel like macro photography would allow the opportunity to focus in the smaller details that would normally be overlooked.
I find macro fascinating too - so much reveals itself that we don't usually see!
Agreed!
essential viewing...whatever skill level you're at, keep taking / making images...good or bad...enjoy.......every day is a school day...thank you for this..
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Great video! I've just started trying to do some street photography. I found that people at car shows are more than happy to pose with their "pride and joy".
Fantastic insight, great video as ever👍
New to your channel and finding it very interesting. Actually I like this episode so much that I believe anyone who is interested in this artform or any for that mater, would benefit listening to this.
Greetings from Corfu. There were 9 muses in Greek mythology: Clio, Euterpe, Thalia, Melpomeni, Terpsichore, Erato, Polymnia, Ourania and Calliope. Otherwise, another very interesting video and, more to the point, some opinions that I agree with. I feel concentration is a necessary skill that all photographers need - if not an essential skill for life as well. This is part of "seeing" that you talk about. I agree that cameras don't make a great photographer but I do think that most great photographers over the years have used pretty good cameras. However, most will have started their photographic journey with something more modest. The one factor that remains as a gift of the Gods is that mysterious talent of having the "photographer's eye". Some have it and some don't. No amount of practice and perseverance can create that, but, if we enjoy our time playing, it's not wasted time. Καλό βράδυ
the 3 gracias
the 3 gracias
Someone offered me a Panasonic fx1 for $5. It has bad dynamic range, but I found using flash gives really cool retro looking images. Especially stuff like portraits. I’ve seen tons of old photos, they absolutely look like those, the colors (CCD sensor). The small flash etc. in simple mode you can actually have the flash underexpose the background, while in portrait mode using an extra button. Pretty cool for $5. I’m going to take this to a party and get some retro vs modern shots. Early digital cameras actually made a point of recreating the film camera look. In this case probably a cheap film camera, but that’s what most old photos were made on of course. The flash actually is paired nicely with the sensor, if you shoot in low light without or in high dynamic range outside, it not as good for sure. Even outside I would leave the flash on, so your subject isn’t tons darker than say the sky. And shoot within the flash distance.
Thanks for this thoroughly interesting, enjoyable video
Many thanks to you, much appreciated!
Great essay/lecture, (as a middlesex 2.1BAhon graduate iv be subjected to a few)
So glad you mentioned the alternate psychology that afflicts the suburbs .
It is... well, Zen. Definitely a frame of mind. And there are definitely things in your musings that I recognise. I also think it's important to know how far you want to go with it, as well. I don't take it too seriously, and consequently don't set the bar too high. And while I might lack in ambition, I do enjoy what I do, and just potter around, basically.
Brilliant advice.Thanks again.
Good job Nigel.. You seemed to have made a much more chilled out vid this time.. I know you are pretty much urban but have you ever thought of doing a forest walk, river walk, docks walk, downs etc?.. I'm sure I'm not the only one who'd enjoy it.. Keep it up matey : )
I think Picasso said: Inspiration exists, but it has to find you working. So always be keen to listen, as the muses can whisper in your ear when you least expect it.
Great video mate. I absolutely agree on your point of the playfulness.
Thanks man, glad you enjoyed it!
Excellent video
I've always been creative, starting with drawing and painting, then making music, and now photography. And I think I can fully agree with everything here. I have noticed that often tutorials in a given creative subject treat the process like learning any other set of academic information, while ignoring what Nigel rightly points out here: that there needs to be an aspect of play; of not being too worried about making something rubbish. Across all the media I have used, my little masterpieces have been raised up higher by all the utter garbage that preceded them.
I know that's only one of the many points raised here, but it's the one that I think is often forgotten. Great video, Nigel.
Very easy to say that it is fine to take rubbish pictures, but when film and developing is as expensive as it is, taking pictures left right and centre is only an option for those with deep pockets or digital cameras.
One of the best things about manual film is that it forces one to stop and think about composition before committing, rather than taking pictures willy nilly.
Wow, I really needed this tonight, thank you so much!
Thanks Nigel, much appreciated. Kev.
i have been enjoying your videos very much…renewing my interest in photography. I have been lookin. I am wondering if you could do a short video about lens adapters ?
Another great episode with a good amount of zenography for us all. Thanks man!
The Olympus OM 2-N is a very nice camera. The shutter sound. Great. A very small and light design of Designer genius Yoshihisa Maitani. Much lighter than all other brands. Bought my OM 2-N back in 1980. Still have it.
You are a wise man 👍🙏
Thank you!
I always enjoy your videos. This is a nice change. So true, just keep shooting. Having started with film, it is much “easier” to experiment and less costly with digital. That said, shooting with film is still a joy. I do miss having a darkroom to print my images.
I agree with what you are saying, I started with Film, joined Digital as soon as it began, and spent too much time upgrading from one Camera to the
next big thing and not spending enough time with what I had. Recently feeling a bit jaded I returned to my original old Digital gear, I have never sold
any of my equipment so it was all there. I started out with a Sony F305, then a F707, then a F 828, so that is where I began again and was pleasantly
surprised with the output from these supposedly outdated old Cameras and watching TH-camrs such as yourself I found others searching out the
same things, a lot of them looking for these Cameras and regretting having parted with them, keep going Sir.
Thanks for the encouragement, glad you're enjoying the channel!
Nobody can break rules, if these rules are not understood. So, great video, thx!
Great information in this video Nigel. I like your thinking and your thoughts are spot on!
Great inspiration! Stay healthy and go on with your channel...
Thanks Udo, glad you're enjoying the channel!
Off subject commentary, for anyone interested in participating; the LensCulture Black and White Photography Awards is open. Deadline is October 19th.
Totally on the spot, best way to learn photography is by taking photos. Lots of mess-ups along the way 😉
Very wise words!
Thanks!
True. I just bought myself a Canon IXUS 70 and a Canon IXUS 510 hs cause I wanted something old and compact to make pictures, to create. See if I can make something with those little things.
Thank you Nigel ... just amazing post.
Thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Many thanks for very useful tips/hints!
Nice rant 😊, lots of good angles in there indeed! Don't agree with all, but many. Thanx. In fact, you touched on so much, there is no point in commenting on anything specific, it'll become a novel. 😁 And it's not all black and white, either or, ..no straightforward takeaway point is what I'm saying. Some aspects will make no sense to one person, or at a given time, ..but will make sense to another, or at a later point in the photographic journey. But that's how it goes, I think.
But very stimulating to watch / listen to, I recommend it! 💚
Being a person that likes to (has to..?) think about these things too (and not really a novice anymore), if I were forced to, I would boil it / this down to just two things. Outrageous, huh? 😮 And it might sound simplistic, but I don't thing it is. Here we go:
FIRST: Keep it fun! (If that means going deep into specific things, bringing on the drama, challenge, struggle - DO IT! If that means keeping it simple and light, easy going, back to baseline - DO IT! ..)
SECOND: Produce something! (At the end of the day, have some images made. If you don't take any photographs, by whatever means, there is zero chance of you having taken a good one, a shitty one, ..or have failed a.k.a. having a learning experience etc. Apply yourself..)
These two aspects will create, a rather short, feedback loop that will potentially sustain your photography journey. (Nothing against long-term goals though.) I can't possibly tell where, but if care for these two thing, your creative process will take you places, will grow, evolve ...somewhere or into something. (Or nowhere, or you lose yourself, haha.) But it will always be YOUR thing. And my guess is, you will meet, wrestle with, bump into many many of the good points made in this video along the way!!! And you'll encounter them when you're ready, when they have relevance to you at a given time, I won't be an intellectual study or something you 'should' do or follow. When it comes up, it will make sense and have meaning..
Have a good day y'all ..
An excellent episode with great advice!
Thanks and cheers!
Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Lovely video; in the "Fred Dibnah meets Grainy Days" genre (tongue in cheek of course but it's meant in praise); really love the philosophical approach and this is a very welcome addition to your technical vintage lens focussed vernacular..........I would love to see you making more videos on composition, your inspiration and your personal journey in photography : would also love to see some hook ups with the likes of analog insights and Karin Majoka to further explore this enduring mystery of why we're all so obsessed still with the world of film representation: I think the British European American and Australian tropes of this wonderful disease need further comparative analysis..........
Thanks for the insightful comments - and I'm honoured to be compared to Fred!
As a street photographer I'm always amused by people who think they have a soverign right to privacy out in public places.
Wise words
Thank you!
Truth. Gotta know the rules in order to break them
Wonderful stuff - despite what I expected
Many thanks Dave, glad you enjoyed it!
just received smc takumar 135/2.5 6element lens.sharp,compact,smooth focus such for 50years old lens.
A very nice lens - enjoy!
@@zenography7923 i have takumars 55/1.8 ,macro 50/4 and ,35/3.5 and 135/2.5. does i need takumar 85/1.8 or it is similar in sharpness contrast and use for bokeh portraits to my 135/2.5?
Thanks. Inspiring thoughts
I love your outdoors videos. You're a wise man.
When I do street photography I use a TLR. It's uncanny because people make a bee line towards it and I've had loads stop and ask me about the camera and ask me to take their photo.
For future episodes I would like to see more film, an episode on photo books and photographers that have inspired you.
As for gear to review. I've a few things that I don't mind loaning you, semi long term, which your viewers might like to see.
Hey Joel, glad you liked the video. I'd be interested in borrowing a couple of bits - if you email me at zenography11@gmail.com we can discuss.
@@zenography7923 will do 😊
Wonderful presentation👍
Many thanks, glad you enjoyed it!
Yea cooool man
This is good advice.
I am using a janky Ricoh XR7 with gorilla tape inside the mirrorbox and a badly dented SMC Pentax 35mm f3.5 as my main film rig these days - I paid $25 CAD from a case of neglected gear at the repair shop.
I HAVE TRANSCENDED THE GEAR.
Nirvana!
I enjoy editing as well in software on the comp.
I do a lot of experimenting in post.
Me too - especially film sim software - saves a lot of time!
I'm a woodland photographer and not a street photographer. Visualize what you want to create, work with special projects, work with portfolios in your projects, give you self a feedback are the pictures as you visualize them, listen to music and get in a depressed state. Start taking photographs and after a time you get in the proper mode and will be creative. The problem is to get out and do it. Don’t put money in new equipment that delays your development as an artist, use what you have and be careful with switching camera system. Put the money in lenses, art books and time to take photographs. Read Photograpics history, use the internet to look at artists photos. Also there are books in photographics theory but they are ususally boring.
I can imagine. Study the greats, go out and shoot, develop your style - learning happens by doing!
@@zenography7923 My problem is to get the time to go out and take photograph. How can you find the time? I had a Panasonic LX 5 and I could take that camera to work and take photographs during the way to work. I got the Fuji X-Pro 1 for the same use but it’s a little too large..
Actually you will have more keepers if you know what you want; chance favors the prepared mind.
There is a composition technique, it's called 'focus', start with writing down a single word or line you want to create on blank canvas or piece of paper. ( it could be also a poem). I am not saying your pictures will be exactly what you wrote down, but at least you will keep focus on what you want.
Alternatively;
Create a little studio at home; it could be even a little shoe box, it's great for creating lighting that is not possible outside, and you can place any model or background you want, or put your studio at the window if you need natural light.
For snapshots, do whatever you want, but don't expect wonders, as many will be shot from the hip, which can also be nice if you like that. I don't want to say - spray and pray - cause that would be putting down the creative process, but we should be aware of the results.
Thanks for the useful comments, appreciated!